My Friend the Friar John Lee and Fr. Stephen Sanchez, O.C.D.

Are the titles "Son of God" and "Son of Man" simply echoes of ancient scripture, or do they offer a gateway to the profound mystery of Jesus Christ? Step into a captivating conversation with Father Stephen Sanchez, a Discalced Carmelite Priest, as we navigate the historical and theological landscapes that these enigmatic titles inhabit. We delve into the complexity of Jesus' identity, examining the duel between divine proclamation and diabolic temptation in the wilderness. Father Sanchez brings a refreshing perspective to the discussion, as we sift through layers of biblical language and centuries-old theological discourse, challenging conventional interpretations within Trinitarian theology.

The episode further unravels these mysteries by probing the encounters between Jesus and demonic forces, contemplating the limits of angelic knowledge and the cosmic implications of their recognition of Jesus as the "Son of God." What secrets of the celestial rebellion do these confrontations reveal? In this episode we confront the hypostatic union—the union of Jesus’ humanity with His divinity. The insights of saints and the faithful remind us that comprehending Christ is an ongoing voyage, one that beckons us to explore the nature of our own relationship with the divine through prayer and reflection. Join us as we seek to unearth the enduring mystery that is Jesus Christ.
Have something you'd love to hear Fr. Stephen and John talk about? Email us at myfriendthefriar@gmail.com or click here!

Join us in the third and final part our conversation on the reality of Satan. Discover the divine authority that pulses within you as we reflect on quotes from St. Teresa of Avila, a Carmelite nun who commanded power over darkness through her identity in Christ. Our exploration brings her timeless revelations to light, offering you a fresh perspective on spiritual empowerment. This episode is a mosaic of theological reflection, inviting you to appreciate the angelic order and to recognize the freely given gifts of God's mercy. Embrace the lessons of honor, delight, and repose through the experiences of saints, as we guide you towards a more profound realization of the divine order that orchestrates our spiritual lives.
Have something you'd love to hear Fr. Stephen and John talk about? Email us at myfriendthefriar@gmail.com or click here!

Discover the profound triumphs of the divine as we navigate the enigmatic realm of spiritual beings with Father Stephen Sanchez. Our journey into the essence of angels and demons reveals their shared origins, despite their starkly contrasting destinies. We dissect the intricate roles these ethereal entities play in the grand tapestry of creation, salvation, and damnation, free from the constraints of our physical world. Father Sanchez guides us through the complexities of these spiritual creatures, drawing from the rich narratives of Tolkien's "Silmarillion" to shed further light on their existence beyond our mortal comprehension.

Grasp the true nature of angelic perfection, where the complete knowledge and will of these celestial beings align flawlessly with their essence, and delve into the enigmatic function of the 'angel of the Lord'—God's messenger, whose duties extend to the fallen angels. Father Sanchez offers an enlightening perspective on the nuanced understanding of free will within both spiritual beings and humanity, and how the fall disrupted the cosmic harmony. By the episode's end, we are left with the empowering realization that a solid foundation in faith and our identity in Christ can strip the devil of his might, echoing the wisdom of St. Teresa of Avila in the face of spiritual warfare.


Have something you'd love to hear Fr. Stephen and John talk about? Email us at myfriendthefriar@gmail.com or click here!

Embark on a journey into the heart of spiritual doctrine with Father Stephen Sanchez, a Discalced Carmelite Priest, as we confront the truths about Satan, the reality of angels, and their pivotal place in Catholic Christian faith. As we explore these profound teachings, you're promised an awakening to the deeper layers of our creed. By acknowledging the existence of spiritual beings, we not only adhere to the scriptures but also preserve the integrity of our beliefs, encompassing God, heaven, and the soul.

In a compelling narrative that mirrors the dramatic fall of Anakin Skywalker, we dissect the origins of Satan, his role as both accuser and tempter, and the intricacies of good and evil in theological discourse. Father Sanchez guides us through the theological landscape, where we examine the misuse of free will that spurred the rebellion of angels, leading to the concept of evil as a finite choice, rather than an absolute force. This episode is an invitation to understand the profound implications of pride, free will, and the power of God's love even for the fallen, an exploration that promises to enlighten and challenge the faithful and curious alike.
Have something you'd love to hear Fr. Stephen and John talk about? Email us at myfriendthefriar@gmail.com or click here!

Have you ever pondered what it means to stand before the God at life's end? Join us as we explore this mystery with Father Stephen Sanchez, a Discalced Carmelite priest, whose insights into the Catholic tradition's views on the afterlife and final judgment are nothing short of illuminating. We scrutinize the intimate moment of personal judgment, where the sum of our earthly lives is unveiled before God's eyes. Delving into the depths of Matthew's sheep and goats parable, we reveal how our choices resonate into eternity. Lent's culmination in Easter is cast in a new light as we discuss the 'transitus'—our soul's passage from death to eternal life with God, and the profound contrast between the fates of the redeemed and the condemned.

Embrace a transformative journey through the lens of eschatology, as we discuss the anticipation of encountering Christ in His full glory. Our conversation turns to the mystical communion awaiting believers, drawing upon the wisdom of Colossians 3 and Lumen Gentium to unwrap the sublime union between Christ and His Church. The communion of saints emerges as a transcendent bond uniting us in spirit and love, as we navigate through the Church's earthly mission. As our epoch edges closer to its ultimate renewal, we examine the present sanctity of the Church and the Holy Spirit's guiding presence in leading us toward the heavenly kingdom's promise. This episode is a profound reflection on our existence's final chapters and the anticipation of the life to come.
Have something you'd love to hear Fr. Stephen and John talk about? Email us at myfriendthefriar@gmail.com or click here!

As we approach the solemnity of Good Friday, Father Stephen Sanchez joins us to navigate the depths of emotion and tradition that shroud this holy day. Together, we grapple with the weighty acknowledgment of our own roles in Christ's crucifixion, teetering between the heartache of remorse and the solace of gratitude for His sacrifice. 

The quietude of Good Friday brings a stark reflection as we explore the symbolism behind an empty church and a stripped altar. These rituals echo Mary's profound sorrow, and through customs such as the Stations of the Cross, we find space for shared mourning and intimate contemplation. Good Friday is a poignant reminder that our personal trials often reflect Christ's sacrifice on the cross, offering both comfort and an opportunity for deeper connection.

Concluding our journey this episode, we ponder the vast expanse of God's love and its significance as we traverse from Good Friday through Easter. We invite you to join us and meditate on the goodness of the Father and let it permeate your Easter celebrations.
Have something you'd love to hear Fr. Stephen and John talk about? Email us at myfriendthefriar@gmail.com or click here!