The Catholic Files

Fr. Sean Donnelly
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Daily

"Welcome, to the The Catholic Files, where we can come together as a community of faith to reflect, pray, and grow in our journey with Christ. My name is Father Sean Donnelly. This podcast is born out of a desire to share the beauty of our Catholic faith, to explore God's Word, and to discover how His love transforms our lives. Each week, we'll delve into topics that inspire, challenge, and encourage us to live as disciples of Jesus in today's world. Whether you're a lifelong Catholic, someone exploring faith, or simply seeking hope and connection, you are warmly welcome here. As we begin this new journey, let us take a moment to open our hearts to the presence of God in prayer." Description: Join Fr. Sean Donnelly of Immaculate Conception Parish in Madison, Ohio as he discusses "everything about the Catholic faith" Fr. Donnelly covers a vast range of topics including the core beliefs like the Trinity, the divinity of Jesus Christ, the importance of the sacraments (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony), the role of the Bible and Church tradition, the teachings on morality, the concept of the Church as the Body of Christ, the Virgin Mary, the Saints, prayer practices, the meaning of Mass, and the Church's stance on social issues, all grounded in the historical development of the Catholic Church and its interpretation of scripture.

  1. 19h ago

    The Catholic Files with Fr. Donnelly - Pope Saint John Paul II Church in America

    The Catholic Files with Fr. Donnelly continues its journey through the writings of Pope Saint John Paul II with a look at one of his most important Apostolic Exhortations, Ecclesia in America (The Church in America). Originally written after the 1997 Synod for America, Ecclesia in America is Pope John Paul II's inspiring call for the Church throughout North, Central, and South America to encounter the living Jesus Christ. In this episode, Fr. Donnelly explores the Holy Father's vision of a Church renewed through  conversion, communion, and solidarity , united in proclaiming the Gospel with courage and love. Discover why St. John Paul II believed that evangelization is not simply a mission for priests and bishops, but a responsibility shared by every Catholic. Learn how his timeless message continues to challenge the Church today to deepen its faith, strengthen unity, defend the dignity of every human person, and bring the hope of Christ to a world in need. Join Fr. Donnelly as he unpacks this powerful document and reflects on what it means to be the Church in America and how each of us is called to become a joyful witness to the Gospel. For more information of the Catholic Files, visit https://www.iccmadison.com/season3

  2. Jul 22

    The Catholic Files – Season 3, Episode 19 The Lord's Day

    The Catholic Files with Fr. Donnelly continues its journey through the timeless writings of Saint Pope John Paul II with an in-depth discussion of his Apostolic Letter Dies Domini (The Lord's Day). Why is Sunday so much more than just the end of the weekend? In this powerful document, Saint John Paul II reminds us that the Lord's Day is the weekly celebration of Christ's Resurrection—our "little Easter" each week. Sunday is the day the Church gathers to worship, encounter Christ in the Holy Eucharist, rest in God's presence, and renew our hope in the promise of eternal life. Join Fr. Sean Donnelly as he explores the rich biblical, historical, and spiritual meaning of keeping the Lord's Day holy. Discover why faithful participation in Sunday Mass has always been at the heart of Catholic life and how reclaiming Sunday can transform our families, strengthen our faith, and deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ. Whether you are rediscovering your Catholic faith or seeking a deeper understanding of the Church's teaching, this episode offers practical wisdom and inspiring insights from one of the greatest popes of the modern era. Listen now and discover why Sunday is the day of the Risen Lord, the day of the Church, and the day of Christian joy and hope. For more episodes of The Catholic Files with Fr. Donnelly, visit www.iccmadison.com.  #TheCatholicFiles #FrSeanDonnelly #SaintJohnPaulII #DiesDomini #KeepHolyTheLordsDay #SundayMass #CatholicPodcast #CatholicFaith #CatholicTeaching #TheLordsDay #Resurrection #HolyEucharist #CatholicChurch #ICCMadison #CatholicLife #ChristianHope

  3. Jul 16

    The Catholic Files – Season 3, Episode 18 Pope Saint John Paul II

    The Catholic Files – Season 3, Episode 18 Pope Saint John Paul II: Vita Consecrata– The Consecrated Life and Its Mission What is the unique mission of those who dedicate their entire lives to Christ? Why does the consecrated life remain an essential witness to the Gospel in today's world?  Join Fr. Sean Donnelly for another inspiring episode of The Catholic Files as our journey through the writings of Pope Saint John Paul II continues with one of his most profound reflections on the vocation to religious life: Vita Consecrata (The Consecrated Life). In this landmark Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation, Pope Saint John Paul II explores the beauty and purpose of the consecrated life, calling religious sisters, brothers, monks, nuns, and consecrated men and women to be living signs of God's Kingdom. Their lives of poverty, chastity, and obedience bear witness to the hope of eternal life and reveal Christ's love to a world longing for meaning and holiness. In this episode, Fr. Donnelly discusses: * The biblical foundations of the consecrated life * The evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience * The indispensable role of religious communities in the Church's mission * How consecrated men and women become visible signs of Christ's presence in the world * Why the witness of holiness remains vital for the renewal of the Church today * What every Catholic can learn from the lives of those who have given everything to follow Christ Whether you are discerning a vocation, belong to a religious community, or simply desire a deeper understanding of the Church's rich spiritual heritage, this episode offers timeless wisdom and practical insights from one of the greatest popes of the modern era.  Subscribe to The Catholic Files as Fr. Sean Donnelly continues exploring the enduring teachings of Pope Saint John Paul II and their relevance for Catholics seeking to live their faith more fully in today's world. Listen now and discover how the consecrated life continues to be a powerful witness to Christ and His Church.

  4. Jul 9

    The Catholic Files - John Paul II Writing on The Formation Of Priests with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 17

    The Catholic Files – Season 3, Episode 17 Pope Saint John Paul II: Pastores Dabo Vobis – The Formation of Priests Join Fr. Sean Donnelly for another episode of The Catholic Files as our journey through the writings of Pope Saint John Paul II continues with one of his most influential documents on the priesthood: Pastores Dabo Vobis (I Will Give You Shepherds). Drawing its title from the prophet Jeremiah—"I will give you shepherds after my own heart" (Jeremiah 3:15)—this Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation reflects on the essential role of priests in the life of the Church and the importance of forming holy, faithful, and courageous shepherds for the People of God. In this episode, Fr. Donnelly explores: Christ as the Good Shepherd and the model for every priest. Why the Church depends upon faithful priests to proclaim the Gospel and celebrate the Sacraments. The spiritual, human, intellectual, and pastoral formation necessary for priestly ministry. Pope Saint John Paul II's message of hope amid the challenges of declining vocations. How every Catholic is called to pray for and support future priests. Whether you are discerning a vocation, supporting seminarians, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the priesthood, this episode offers timeless wisdom from one of the Church's greatest modern saints. Listen as Fr. Donnelly unpacks the enduring relevance of Pastores Dabo Vobis and reminds us that Christ continues to fulfill His promise: "I will give you shepherds after my own heart." Click the link to read the document. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_25031992_pastores-dabo-vobis.html For more information of the Catholic Files, visit https://www.iccmadison.com/season3

  5. Jul 2

    The Catholic Files - John Paul II Writing on the Family with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 16

    Join Fr. Sean Donnelly on this week's episode of The Catholic Files as our journey through the writings of Pope Saint John Paul II continues with a discussion of his Apostolic Exhortation Familiaris Consortio. Issued after the 1980 Synod of Bishops, Familiaris Consortio remains one of the Church's most important documents on the vocation and mission of the Christian family.  Pope Saint John Paul II explores God's beautiful plan for marriage, the dignity of family life, the responsibility of parents, and the essential role of the family as the "domestic church" in today's world. Whether you are married, raising a family, discerning your vocation, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of the Church's teaching, this conversation offers timeless wisdom and practical insights that are as relevant today as when they were first written. Tune in this week to discover how strong, faithful families help build a stronger Church and a more hopeful world. Available at www.iccmadison.com/season3, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and wherever you listen to podcasts. Click the link to read the document. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_19811122_familiaris-consortio.html For more information of the Catholic Files, visit https://www.iccmadison.com/season3

  6. Jun 23

    The Catholic Files - Apostolic Constitution promulgating the Catechism of the Catholic Church with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 15

    Join us this week as our series on the writings of Pope Saint John Paul II continues with a discussion of Fidei Depositum, the Apostolic Constitution promulgating the Catechism of the Catholic Church following the Second Vatican Council. Discover the remarkable story behind the Catechism's creation—a six-year collaborative effort involving Pope Saint John Paul II, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (later Pope Benedict XVI), bishops, theologians, catechists, and the worldwide episcopate. Together they produced a comprehensive and authoritative presentation of the Catholic faith, a true "symphony of the faith" reflecting the unity and catholicity of the Church. In this episode, Fr. Donnelly explores the significance of Fidei Depositum, the purpose of the Catechism, and why this landmark document remains an essential guide for Catholics seeking to know, understand, and live their faith today. Whether you are new to the Catechism or have studied it for years, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the most important documents of the modern Church. Listen this week on The Catholic Files with Fr. Sean Donnelly and deepen your understanding of the faith entrusted to the Church by Christ. Available at www.iccmadison.com/season3, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, and wherever you listen to podcasts.  Click the link to read the document. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_constitutions/documents/hf_jp-ii_apc_19921011_fidei-depositum.html For more information of the Catholic Files, visit https://www.iccmadison.com/season3

  7. Jun 17

    The Catholic Files - Dignity of Women with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 14

    The Catholic Files with Fr. Sean Donnelly This Week: Mulieris Dignitatem – The Dignity and Vocation of Women Continuing his series exploring the writings of Pope Saint John Paul II, Fr. Sean Donnelly turns this week to one of the Holy Father's most influential documents, Mulieris Dignitatem (On the Dignity and Vocation of Women). In this episode, Fr. Donnelly examines John Paul II's profound reflection on the unique dignity of women and their indispensable role in both the Church and society. Drawing upon Scripture, Church tradition, and the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, the Pope presents a vision of womanhood rooted in the equal dignity of men and women as created in the image and likeness of God. Fr. Donnelly explores why questions concerning the dignity and vocation of women have become a subject of renewed human and Christian reflection in modern times. He highlights the Council Fathers' recognition that "the hour is coming, in fact has come, when the vocation of women is being acknowledged in its fullness," and discusses how women, inspired by the Gospel, have a vital mission in shaping a more humane and Christ-centred world. Join Fr. Donnelly as he unpacks John Paul II's insights into motherhood, discipleship, human relationships, and the "feminine genius," revealing how Mulieris Dignitatem remains a powerful and relevant guide for understanding the dignity, gifts, and calling of women in today's Church and society. Click the link to read the document. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_letters/1988/documents/hf_jp-ii_apl_19880815_mulieris-dignitatem.html For more information of the Catholic Files, visit www.iccmadison.com/season3

  8. Jun 2

    The Catholic Files - The Mission of the Lay Faithful with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 13

    In this inspiring episode of Catholic Files, Fr. Donnelly explores Christifideles Laici, the Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation of Pope St. John Paul II on the vocation and mission of the lay faithful in the Church and in the world. Drawing from this important document, Fr. Donnelly reflects on the unique calling of lay Catholics to live their faith boldly in everyday life, bringing the Gospel into families, workplaces, communities, and society. He discusses the dignity of the baptized, the universal call to holiness, and the vital role that lay men and women play in the mission of the Church. Whether you are actively involved in parish life or seeking a deeper understanding of your vocation as a Catholic, this episode offers valuable insights into how every member of the faithful is called to participate in Christ's mission.  Read Christifideles Laici: https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_30121988_christifideles-laici.html For more information on Catholic Files with Fr. Donnelly: www.iccmadison.com/season3

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

"Welcome, to the The Catholic Files, where we can come together as a community of faith to reflect, pray, and grow in our journey with Christ. My name is Father Sean Donnelly. This podcast is born out of a desire to share the beauty of our Catholic faith, to explore God's Word, and to discover how His love transforms our lives. Each week, we'll delve into topics that inspire, challenge, and encourage us to live as disciples of Jesus in today's world. Whether you're a lifelong Catholic, someone exploring faith, or simply seeking hope and connection, you are warmly welcome here. As we begin this new journey, let us take a moment to open our hearts to the presence of God in prayer." Description: Join Fr. Sean Donnelly of Immaculate Conception Parish in Madison, Ohio as he discusses "everything about the Catholic faith" Fr. Donnelly covers a vast range of topics including the core beliefs like the Trinity, the divinity of Jesus Christ, the importance of the sacraments (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony), the role of the Bible and Church tradition, the teachings on morality, the concept of the Church as the Body of Christ, the Virgin Mary, the Saints, prayer practices, the meaning of Mass, and the Church's stance on social issues, all grounded in the historical development of the Catholic Church and its interpretation of scripture.

Information

  • Creator
    Fr. Sean Donnelly
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    101
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    The Catholic Files