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. 5d ago

    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

    21 min

  2. 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

    25 min

  3. 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

    23 min

  4. May 26

    The Catholic Files - The Eucharist with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 12

    Welcome to Catholic Files with Fr. Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 12. In this powerful episode, Fr. Donnelly reflects on Dominicae Cenae, the inspiring letter of Pope Saint John Paul II addressed to the bishops of the Church on the sacred mystery and worship of the Holy Eucharist. Written in 1980, this timeless document calls the faithful to rediscover deeper reverence, devotion, and awe for the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. Together, we explore the beauty of the Eucharist as the center of Catholic life, the importance of sacred worship, and the responsibility of every believer to approach the Holy Mass with renewed faith and love. Fr. Donnelly guides listeners through the teachings of Saint John Paul II with pastoral insight and practical reflection for Catholics today.  Click the link to read the encyclical: https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/letters/1980/documents/hf_jp-ii_let_19800224_dominicae-cenae.html For more information on Catholic Files with Fr. Donnelly, visit: www.iccmadison.com/season3

    20 min

  5. May 18

    The Catholic Files with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 11

    The Catholic Files - Christian Unity with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 11 This week on The Catholic Files Podcast, Fr. Donnelly explores the timeless and powerful message of Pope Saint John Paul II's encyclical Ut Unum Sint ("That They May Be One"), a profound call to Christian unity rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As the Church approached the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000, Saint John Paul II urged all Christians to renew their commitment to unity, echoing the vision of the Second Vatican Council. In this moving reflection, Fr. Donnelly examines how the sacrifices of modern Christian martyrs, Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant alike, stand as a living witness that divisions among believers can be overcome through faith, charity, and the total gift of self for Christ. The episode reflects on the Pope's stirring reminder that Christians cannot remain divided while following the same crucified Lord. From the Roman Colosseum on Good Friday in 1994, Saint John Paul II proclaimed that the Cross of Christ is the source of humanity's hope, redemption, and new life. Against a modern world that often seeks to diminish the meaning of the Cross and live "as if God did not exist," this encyclical calls believers to stand together in truth, courage, and faith. Join Fr. Donnelly for a deep spiritual reflection on ecumenism, the witness of the martyrs, the mystery of the Cross, and Christ's enduring prayer: "That they may all be one."   Click the link to read the encyclical. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_25051995_ut-unum-sint.html  For more information of the Catholic Files, visit https://www.iccmadison.com/season3

    23 min

  6. May 13

    The Catholic Files - The Gospel of Life with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 10

    This week on The Catholic Files Podcast, Fr. Donnelly reflects on one of the most powerful encyclicals of Pope Saint John Paul II — Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life). In a world often marked by confusion about the dignity of the human person, this timeless teaching boldly proclaims the sacredness and beauty of every human life from conception to natural death. Centered on the words of Christ, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly" (John 10:10), Fr. Donnelly explores how The Gospel of Life remains at the very heart of Jesus' mission and the Church's message to the world. From the joyful announcement of Christ's Birth to the eternal promise of life in communion with God, this episode highlights the profound meaning and dignity found in every human life.  Join Fr. Donnelly as he discusses Pope Saint John Paul II's call for Christians to courageously defend, cherish, and proclaim the Gospel of Life with faith, compassion, and unwavering hope in today's culture. Click the link to read the encyclical. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_25031995_evangelium-vitae.html For more information of the Catholic Files, visit www.iccmadison.com/season3

    26 min

  7. May 7

    The Catholic Files with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 9

    Welcome to The Catholic Files with Father Donnelly - Season 3, Episode 9. This week, we journey into one of the most powerful and prophetic encyclicals of Pope Saint John Paul II: Veritatis Splendor - The Splendour of Truth. In a world often clouded by confusion, moral relativism, and the rejection of objective truth, Saint John Paul II reminds us that the light of Christ still shines brightly upon humanity.  "The splendour of truth shines forth in all the works of the Creator…" Through these profound words, the Holy Father calls every person to rediscover that truth is not an idea invented by man, but a divine reality revealed in Jesus Christ, "the true light that enlightens everyone" (John 1:9). In this episode, Father Donnelly explores the missionary vision of Saint John Paul II — a vision rooted in courage, holiness, and fidelity to the Gospel. We will reflect on the struggle between truth and error, freedom and relativism, and how authentic freedom can only be found in obedience to God's truth. As Catholics, we are called to be "children of light," standing firm in faith amidst a culture that often seeks freedom apart from God. Veritatis Splendor remains a timeless reminder that the moral teachings of the Church are not burdens, but pathways to human dignity, joy, and eternal life. Join Father Donnelly as we uncover the beauty, clarity, and transforming power of truth found in Jesus Christ and faithfully proclaimed by Pope Saint John Paul II. Click the link to read the encyclical. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_06081993_veritatis-splendor.html For more information of the Catholic Files, visit www.iccmadison.com/season3

    25 min

  8. Apr 28

    The Catholic Files with Father Donnelly, Season 3, Episode 8

    In this episode of The Catholic Files with Father Donnelly, Season 3 focuses on the powerful missionary vision of Pope Saint John Paul II through his encyclical Redemptoris Missio, "The Mission of Christ the Redeemer." Father Donnelly unpacks the urgency and lasting importance of this teaching, helping viewers understand that the Church's mission is not something completed in the past, but something that continues today. Drawing from the words of John Paul II, the episode highlights a striking reality. Even after two thousand years, the mission entrusted to the Church is still far from complete. Father Donnelly explains that this is not meant to discourage us, but to call us into action. The Gospel is still meant to reach every heart, every nation, and every generation. As Saint Paul says, "Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel," reminding us that sharing Christ is not optional. It is essential to living the Christian life. The episode also explores how this missionary calling is not based on human effort alone, but on the work of the Holy Spirit. Father Donnelly explains that it is the Spirit who moves the Church to proclaim the great works of God, giving believers both the courage and the responsibility to share the faith in their daily lives. Father Donnelly connects this teaching to the vision of the Second Vatican Council, which reminded the Church that she is missionary by her very nature. This mission flows from the life of the Trinity and extends into the world as a call to unity, echoing the prayer of Christ "that they may all be one so that the world may believe." With thoughtful insight and clear guidance, Father Donnelly encourages listeners to see missionary work as a personal calling. It is not only for those who travel far away, but for every believer. At home, at work, and within the parish, each person is invited to take part in the mission of Christ the Redeemer by sharing His love and truth with a world that still longs for Him. Click the link to read the encyclical. https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_jp-ii_enc_07121990_redemptoris-missio.html For more information of the Catholic Files, visit www.iccmadison.com/season3

    24 min
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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
    96
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025
  • Show Website
    The Catholic Files