Corpus Christi Parish Podcast - Living the Eucharist

Corpus Christi Parish Communications

Join Father Matthew Widder of Corpus Christi Parish in Waukesha, Wisconsin, as he guides us in living out Catholic faith and values through the power of the Eucharist. Each episode of this Catholic podcast explores how we can grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ, strengthen our spiritual life, and live the Gospel in our daily lives. Through inspiring conversations, teachings, and stories from our parish community, the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast helps listeners deepen their love for the Mass, the Eucharist, and the Catholic Church. Whether you're looking for Catholic inspiration, parish life stories, reflections on Scripture, or practical ways to live your faith at home, work, and in the world, this podcast will encourage you to be a disciple of Christ in today's world. Perfect for Catholics, seekers, and anyone hoping to connect more fully with their faith, the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast is your companion for prayer, reflection, and growing closer to God.

  1. Oct 16

    Betsy Kostolni - Host of The Ripple Effect Podcast

    When God Calls You to Something Unexpected | Betsy Kostolni & The Ripple Effect What happens when God puts something on your heart that you never expected—and you're not quite sure you're ready to say yes? In this episode of the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast, Father Matthew Widder welcomes parishioner Betsy Kostolni, host of The Ripple Effect podcast. Betsy shares the surprising story of how a simple walk, a moment of prayer, and an unexpected realization led her to recognize what she believes was a calling from the Holy Spirit. Together, Father Matthew and Betsy explore the idea that our words, actions, and everyday moments create "ripples" that can impact people in ways we may never see. Betsy talks about learning to be more intentional with others, the lesson that "the dishes can wait," and a humbling experience that reminded her that we don't always know how our actions are experienced by someone else. Most importantly, Betsy shares what she has learned about discernment, trusting God, and taking that first step—even when we don't have all the answers. Sometimes God's call doesn't arrive in the way we expect. Sometimes it simply keeps showing up until we're willing to listen. Listen in for an inspiring conversation about faith, discernment, everyday moments, and the ripples each of us can make in the lives of others. Find Betsy's podcast, The Ripple Effect, on Spotify and Apple Podcasts by searching "The Ripple Effect Betsy."

    Betsy Kostolni - Host of The Ripple Effect Podcast
  2. Oct 2

    Screen Time, Online Bullying & Depression

    How much is too much screen time? And what happens when the online world starts affecting our mental health? On this episode of the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast, Fr. Matthew Widder welcomes Denise Fischer, Program Coordinator and Chapter 51 Court Support Representative with NAMI Southeast Wisconsin, for an important conversation about screen time, online bullying, depression, anxiety and mental health. Denise shares insights from years of working with individuals and families navigating mental health challenges — including some important warning signs parents and loved ones should pay attention to. "Mental health conditions are medical illnesses. They're not moral failings." They also discuss: How excessive screen time can affect relationships and self-esteem The hidden reality of cyberbullying Warning signs that a child or teenager may be struggling The importance of parents setting healthy boundaries Common misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental illness Mental health and faith — and why struggling with mental health isn't a failure of faith And if you have children, grandchildren, or simply spend time online yourself, this conversation is worth hearing. Listen to the latest episode of the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast. Plus, Denise and Fr. Matthew discuss the upcoming Screen Time, Online Bullying & Depression community presentation on October 12 from 6–8 PM at the St. Mary Community Room. Listen. Share. Start the conversation. #CorpusChristiParish #CorpusChristiPodcast #MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #NAMI #Cyberbullying #ScreenTime #Depression #Anxiety #Parenting #CatholicPodcast #FaithAndMentalHealth #Waukesha

    Screen Time, Online Bullying & Depression
  3. Sep 25

    Deacon Antonio Palacios - 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees

    What does it mean to welcome the stranger while also recognizing the responsibilities of a nation and its citizens? In this episode of the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast, Father Matthew Widder welcomes Dcn. Antonio Palacios for an important and deeply personal conversation about migrants and refugees—and the Catholic Church's call to respond with both justice and mercy. Dcn. Antonio shares his own story of coming to the United States from Mexico, beginning with a work opportunity that eventually became a new chapter in his life and ministry. Now, after nearly 30 years in the United States and 17 years serving as a deacon, he has a unique perspective on the experiences of migrants and the challenges many face. Father Matthew and Dcn. Antonio discuss Catholic teaching on immigration, the distinction between migrants and refugees, the Church's history of responding to those in need, and the work of the St. Francis Xavier Cabrini Immigration Committee at Corpus Christi Parish. The conversation also focuses on one of the most vulnerable groups affected by migration: children. Dcn. Antonio shares why protecting children from exploitation, violence, trafficking and other dangers must be a particular concern for people of faith. Most importantly, this episode is an invitation to look beyond political arguments and see the human beings behind the issue—and to consider how prayer, compassion, service and practical assistance can make a difference. Listen to this episode of the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast and hear Dcn. Antonio Palacios share his story and his perspective on serving migrants and refugees in our community. #CorpusChristiParish #CatholicPodcast #CatholicFaith #MigrantsAndRefugees #Immigration #CatholicChurch #Deacon #FaithInAction #Waukesha #CatholicCommunity

    Deacon Antonio Palacios - 112th World Day of Migrants and Refugees
  4. Sep 18

    Nick Sanders - Chief Operating Officer

    This week on the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast, Father Matthew welcomes Nick Sanders, Chief Operating Officer of Corpus Christi Parish and School, for a conversation that takes listeners from the Pentagon and Space Force to the heart of parish life. Nick shares his remarkable journey from growing up Catholic in Racine, to serving more than 20 years in the U.S. Air Force and Space Force—including work with satellite reconnaissance and assignments at the Pentagon—before returning to Wisconsin and eventually becoming part of the Corpus Christi Parish family. Father Matthew and Nick also take a closer look at the parish's recently completed fiscal year and what the first full year as one Corpus Christi Parish has meant financially. They discuss the challenges and blessings of bringing four former parishes together, how the merger has simplified financial operations, the importance of responsible stewardship, and how parishioners' generosity is helping make major projects possible. From the completion of the St. Joseph Church project and the St. John Neumann parking lot, to upcoming improvements at St. Mary's Old Rectory and the St. William playground, Nick explains how coming together as one parish is allowing Corpus Christi to address important needs and invest in its future. The conversation also looks at the growing Corpus Christi Endowment, why endowment giving matters for the parish's long-term future, and how every dollar entrusted to the parish is being carefully stewarded. And, of course, Father Matthew couldn't let Nick leave without asking what Hollywood gets wrong about satellite reconnaissance! Tune in for a fascinating conversation about faith, service, stewardship, sacrifice, and the future of Corpus Christi Parish.

    Nick Sanders - Chief Operating Officer

About

Join Father Matthew Widder of Corpus Christi Parish in Waukesha, Wisconsin, as he guides us in living out Catholic faith and values through the power of the Eucharist. Each episode of this Catholic podcast explores how we can grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ, strengthen our spiritual life, and live the Gospel in our daily lives. Through inspiring conversations, teachings, and stories from our parish community, the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast helps listeners deepen their love for the Mass, the Eucharist, and the Catholic Church. Whether you're looking for Catholic inspiration, parish life stories, reflections on Scripture, or practical ways to live your faith at home, work, and in the world, this podcast will encourage you to be a disciple of Christ in today's world. Perfect for Catholics, seekers, and anyone hoping to connect more fully with their faith, the Corpus Christi Parish Podcast is your companion for prayer, reflection, and growing closer to God.