Yes Catholic David Patterson

Brother Vinny, a soon-to-be-ordained Capuchin Franciscan friar, enthralls us with his remarkable journey from a Texas layabout to a beacon of faith in Colorado. Through his story, we explore the life-altering moments that guided him to the path of priesthood, illuminating the transformative power of spiritual readings and the embrace of a supportive community. His reflection on "Abandonment to Divine Providence" by Jean-Pierre de Caussade, coupled with his own experiences, offers profound insights into the essence of faith and commitment.

Brother Vinny recounts his battles with fear and self-doubt, finding solace in scripture that fortified his spirit, ultimately leading him through discernment, religious vows, and the threshold of ordination.

As we draw this episode to a close, we delve into the robust tapestry of religious life, dismantling misconceptions and celebrating the jubilant journey it promises. If your heart is seeking guidance or if you're simply curious about the monastic existence, this dialogue is a treasury of wisdom and hope for anyone discerning their life's calling. Join us in embracing the adventure of faith, where every one of us is invited to respond to a universal summons with courage and joy.
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Have you ever felt like your faith was put to the test or wondered how to find solace in prayer during trying times? Thomas Hammen's inspirational journey might illuminate your path. Thomas recounts his Florida upbringing, his days as an SPO missionary, and how simple acts, like his daily short prayer, sustain his profound connection with God. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on the challenges and triumphs of faith, intended to offer hope and guidance for those navigating their own spiritual journeys.

Thomas opens up about the transition from adolescence to adulthood, revealing the missteps and the allure of vices that once distanced him from his faith. An extraordinary retreat and the joy witnessed in a friend named Mike became the catalysts for a profound personal meeting with Jesus Christ, marking a pivotal moment in his life. 

We then venture deeper, exploring the sustaining role of prayer and its impact on mental well-being within the seminary walls. The conversation extends to practical advice for those experiencing spiritual desolation and the balancing act amidst the distractions of social media. Join us for an exploration of finding God in scripture, the authenticity required in prayer, and the simplicity of making space for divine encounters in everyday life. Thomas Hammen's story isn't just about faith; it's an invitation to weave the divine into the fabric of our daily lives.
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When I sat down with Beth Davis of Blessed is She, it wasn't just a conversation—it was a revelation of heart. Her tale embarks from a childhood steeped in faith, to a simple prayer that forms the cornerstone of her daily life. 

Ultimately, the essence of our dialogue rests in the profound celebration of the Eucharist. The solace found in daily Mass and the intimate relationship we each cultivate with the sacred heart of Jesus is a gift that transcends time and place. Whether it's feeling at home in a foreign parish or experiencing the kinship of saints both past and present, the global Catholic family emerges as a source of limitless joy and fortitude. Our stories, interwoven with laughter and spiritual insight, invite you to rediscover the Eucharist's role in your journey, and to kindle a faith so radiant it beckons others to its warmth.
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From the echoes of an adoration chapel where a young man grapples with his divine calling, to the joyous embrace of marriage and service beyond the seminary walls, Thomas's narrative is one of profound transformation. He unpacks the complexities of discernment, sharing how the seeds sown during his seminary years blossomed into a fulfilling role in campus ministry. It's a testament to the beauty in the unexpected, the discernment of God's voice amidst life's cacophony, and the courage it takes to follow that call.

Our conversation with Thomas doesn't just explore his story, but also extends an invitation to all, highlighting the universal call to holiness that beckons each of us. He lays bare the signs of a vocation lived fully, inspiring us to lean into our talents and contribute to the sanctification of ourselves and others. Emboldened by examples like Father Mike Schmitz and the victory already secured by Christ, we close this chapter hopeful for the church's future, and for the individual paths to holiness we are all journeying upon. Join us for an episode that's much more than a story—it's an exploration of faith, vocation, and the resonance between them.
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Today's episode is more than a conversation; it's an expedition into the heart of a movement driven by faith and innovation. We navigate the digital landscape through the eyes of our guest, a filmmaker and youth minister who found their calling in the beatification of Blessed Carlo Acutis and their passion for storytelling.

John recounts his faith journey, from playful explorations of green screen technology to profound moments of prayer in the most unexpected places, like a dusty cave. Witness the transformation from a production assistant navigating the challenges of secular film sets to a visionary embracing the role of a 'digital missionary,' aiming to chart uncharted territories in the pursuit of truth alongside today's youth.

Join us as we gather insights on adapting ministry to the pulse of Gen Z, acknowledging the necessity to meet them where they are — online. We probe the essence of impactful digital evangelization, where success isn't measured by numbers, but by the depth of connections made and lives touched. As we conclude, our hearts unite in prayer for the youth, and an invitation to explore the resources at truthcharting.com.
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When Louis Damani Jones speaks, one can't help but feel the warmth of his heart and the depth of his spiritual journey envelop the room. This St. Louis psychotherapist brings to our latest podcast episode a rich tapestry of childhood experiences within an intentional community, the pull of activism, and the complexities of faith that have shaped his life. 

His candid recounting of this journey reveals the emotional resonance of sacred music and the spiritual guidance received from a Coptic priest, which would ultimately challenge and deepen his understanding of Christianity. Louis' narrative is a testament to the powerful role of tradition and liturgical practices in shaping one's faith and the unexpected paths that lead us back home.

As our conversation unfolds, we learn of Louis' internal struggle between the tenets of Eastern Orthodoxy and Catholicism, a conflict that finds resolution through his study of early church councils and the pivotal Tome of Leo. With a renewed embrace of Catholicism, Louis discusses the integration of Eastern spiritual disciplines into his practice of faith and offers insights into the active role of charity within the church. His reflection on the challenges of reentering the Catholic community, coupled with the practical advice he offers for those seeking to deepen their spiritual journey, makes this episode a beacon for anyone navigating the waters of faith, identity, and service. 
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