Catholic Review Radio

Apr. 5, 2026 | Converts welcomed into the Catholic faith

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 08:00:00 -0400

This Easter marks a remarkable moment in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, where more than 1,280 catechumens and candidates entered into full communion with the Catholic Church — a number drawn from those attending formal rites and not including several hundred others welcomed at individual parishes. In this episode of Catholic Review Radio, host Rita Buettner highlights two of these journeys.

Laura Montgomery of St. Joseph in Fullerton describes how she and her family moved from a Baptist and non-denominational background in search of truth, ultimately discovering the richness of Catholic tradition, especially the Eucharist and a sense of spiritual inheritance.

Colton Shumaker of St. Peter the Apostle in Libertytown shares a personal path shaped by relationships, prayer and a gradual realization that led him to pursue the sacraments.

Together, their stories illustrate the power of community, formation through OCIA, and the many ways individuals are drawn home to the Catholic Church.

Listen to Catholic Review Radio April 5 at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on WMET 1160 AM and 103.1 FM. The show is also available Sundays on WSJF in Sykesville/Eldersburg at 11:45 a.m. and 3 p.m. Listen on your favorite podcast platform or streaming device the next day.

Mar. 29, 2026 | Protecting the Environment

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

In this Earth Day-themed episode of Catholic Review Radio, host George Matysek explores how faith can inspire care for creation through the perspectives of two guests.

First, Father Jim Bors, a former naval officer and widowed father ordained to the priesthood in 2022, shares how his lifelong love of nature informs his ministry. Now serving as priest-secretary to Archbishop William E. Lori, he has promoted native plant gardens at the parish level and at his home in Cape St. Clair. His work focuses on restoring habitats for pollinators and encouraging practical, faith-rooted stewardship of the environment.

The episode also features Alexandra Palting, a New York-based actress, musician and writer who grew up at St. Louis Parish in Clarksville. Blending medieval chants of St. Hildegard with music generated from plant biorhythms, Palting creates a striking fusion of faith, science and art. She discusses her creative process and upcoming Clarksville concert, offering listeners a glimpse of her innovative, nature-inspired sound.

Mar. 22, 2026 | Faith and America's pastime – "Baseball: Beyond Belief"

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 09:15:00 -0400

Discover the inspiring intersection of faith and America’s pastime in this week’s episode of Catholic Review Radio. Catholic Review Editor and Host Chris Gunty speaks with filmmaker John Scheinfeld, writer and director of the new documentary Baseball Beyond Belief. Inspired by John Sexton’s bestselling book “Baseball as a Road to God: Seeing Beyond the Game,” the film explores how faith, ritual, doubt, and community shape both spiritual life and baseball fandom. Scheinfeld shares stories from players, scholars, and fans of many religious backgrounds – Catholic, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist and more – revealing the universal human longing reflected in the game. They discuss memorable moments, including players balancing religious conviction with professional demands and fans who treat ballparks like modern cathedrals. The conversation also highlights the film’s unique collaboration with Paulist Productions, a Catholic organization, and the documentary’s upcoming theatrical and broadcast release.

Mar. 15, 2025 | Pro-life deacons; Catholic Radio on WMET

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:30:00 -0400

Catholic Review Associate Publisher Christopher Gunty has two guests on the program this week. First up is Deacon Kevin Cummings of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, talking about the ministry he and other members of Deacons of Hope starteed to create residential homes for unwed women experiencing homelessness. He notes how addressing all the needs – pre-natal and post-natal – saves the women and their babies.

In the second segment, Joseph Schuler, development director and one-man band at WMET Radio in Washington, D.C., talks with Gunty about his journey of faith and how his son’s traumatic brain injury led Joseph to the “heroic mission” of working to spread the word of God over the airwaves.

BONUS Episode: The 2026 Oscars (with additional content)

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 09:45:00 -0400

🎬 Enjoy additional conversation with our guests on Hollywood and the movies in this special bonus episode for the 2026 Oscars season!

Catholic Review Associate Publisher Chris Gunty is joined by Daughter of St. Paul Sister Rose Pacatte, OSV News media reviewer John Mulderig, and co‑host Ann Augherton of the Arlington Catholic Herald for a fast‑moving, insightful conversation about Hollywood’s biggest night, coming up March 15.

From the imaginative spectacle of Sinners to the quiet beauty of Train Dreams, the panel explores why 2025’s films leaned into offbeat storytelling, ordinary heroes, and marathon running times. They break down each Best Picture contender in brief, highlight standout performances, debate moral and spiritual themes, and share their personal favorites of the year.

Whether you love film, faith, or sharp cultural conversation, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives – and a few surprises – on what makes great cinema today.

Mar. 8, 2026 | The 2026 Oscars

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

🎬 Catholic Review Radio’s 2026 Oscars Special dives into the year’s most surprising, soulful, and genre‑bending Best Picture nominees. Catholic Review Associate Publisher Chris Gunty is joined by Daughter of St. Paul Sister Rose Pacatte, OSV News media reviewer John Mulderig, and co‑host Ann Augherton of the Arlington Catholic Herald for a fast‑moving, insightful conversation about Hollywood’s biggest night, coming up March 15.

Whether you love film, faith, or sharp cultural conversation, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives – and a few surprises – on what makes great cinema today.

Mar. 1, 2026 | O's pitcher received into the Catholic Church

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Mark Viviano welcomes Baltimore Orioles pitcher Cade Povich for a heartfelt conversation about faith, baseball and purpose. Preparing for his third Major League season with the Baltimore Orioles, Povich reflects on a life-changing milestone: his reception last year into the Catholic Church at age 25.

Povich shares how his journey began with childhood curiosity, deepened in Catholic high school theology classes and matured amid the pressures of professional baseball. Encouraged by teammates, his wife’s faith and guidance from a priest, he completed months of formation during the grind of the MLB season. The day after his baptism, he was back on the mound for a Major League game.

Povich also discusses the growing Christian fellowship within clubhouses across baseball and why he openly shares his faith to inspire others.

Feb. 22, 2026 | Holier matrimony

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Exploring the beauty and challenge of Catholic marriage, this week’s episode of "Catholic Review Radio" features author and homeschooling mother Caitrin Bennett discussing her award-winning book, "Holier Matrimony: Married Saints, Catholic Vows and Sacramental Grace." A parishioner of St. John Francis Regis Parish in Leonardtown, Bennett shares how her desire to find married saints as companions in her own vocation grew into a richly layered work on saintly couples, Catholic wedding vows and sacramental grace.

Feb. 15, 2026 | Archbishop Lori’s pastoral letter: “In Charity and Truth”

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

In a new pastoral letter released Feb. 9, Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore takes the occasion of the nation’s 250th anniversary to address “a moment of grace and responsibility.” Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with the archbishop about the motivation for the letter, which is subtitled, “Toward a Renewed Political Culture.” Archbishop Lori notes in the interview that the extreme polarization of the current political climate is painfully evident and that we need to find common ground to work for human dignity.

Feb. 8, 2026 | Sinners and Saints video series

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Oscar Wilde once said, “Every sinner has a past. Every saint has a future.” Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Tim Jeffries and Joe Reynolds, producers of the popular video series “Sinners and Saints,” which is now filming its third season. They talk about how each of us is a broken sinner and how we should strive to become saints. Even some of the holiest saints we can think of, including St. Augustine, were notorious sinners before they changed their ways.

Feb. 1, 2026 | Notre Dame of Maryland partners with senior living community

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Catholic Review Radio this week explores faith, education and community across generations. George Matysek speaks with Dr. Mary Lou Yam, president of Notre Dame of Maryland University, and Austin Koo, development director at Brightview Senior Living, about a long-planned partnership that will bring a senior living community to the university’s campus. The project will create housing for independent living, assisted living and memory care while opening the door to intergenerational learning.

Later in the program, professional performer Melissa Victor, currently touring with the hit musical "Wicked," joins the show. A graduate of Archbishop Borders Catholic School in Highlandtown and a parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Baltimore, Melissa answers questions about her musical career from current students at her alma mater.

Jan. 25, 2026 | The hidden story behind AA: Faith, family and the addiction recovery movement

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Addiction and recovery touch countless individuals and families, yet the deeper story behind the recovery movement is often unknown. On this episode of Catholic Review Radio, Rita Buettner speaks with authors Tom Adams and Joy Jones about their book, "A Marriage That Changed the World: Lois and Bill Wilson and the Addiction Recovery Movement." Their conversation reframes the familiar history of Alcoholics Anonymous by highlighting addiction as a family disease and recovery as a shared, spiritual journey.

Adams and Jones shine a light on the essential but frequently overlooked contributions of behind-the-scenes partners who were critical to the founding of both Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon Family Groups. The episode also examines the Christian roots of the 12-step program, the influence of Catholic leaders and the Church’s role in welcoming Catholics into recovery.

Jan. 18, 2026 | Lent and Pope Leo

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Deacon Greg Kandra is a writer, retreat leader, blogger and author. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty chatted with Deacon Kandra about his most recent book, “Peace Be with All of You: The Mission and Message of Pope Leo XIV,” from Word Among Us. He explains why service, unity and hope in Christ are hallmarks already of the new pope’s tenure, based in Augustinian spirituality. He also talks about how to prepare well for Lent.

Jan. 11, 2026 | The Dead Sea Scrolls

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0400

The Dead Sea Scrolls are some of the oldest versions of the Bible that have ever been discovered, dating back even before the time of Christ. Discovered in 1947 in Qumran, a portion of the scrolls are now on display in Washington, D.C., at the Museum of the Bible. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty walked through the exhibit with Dr. Robert “Bobby” Duke to learn about how the exhibit came about, why the scrolls are important to understanding Scripture and how the scrolls are preserved today. The museum’s exhibit provides a window into the Second Temple Period in Jerusalem (538-70 B.C.), and includes a large stone from the Western Wall where visitors can leave prayers.

Jan. 4, 2026 | Carrying grace Into the new year

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0400

As a new year dawns, Rita Buettner sits down with award-winning Catholic author and columnist Laura Kelly Fanucci for a thoughtful conversation about faith, reflection, grief and hope in times of transition. Fanucci reflects on how moments such as the turn of a calendar year invite us to pause, take stock and ask where God has been present in our lives — and where God may be calling us next.

Laura shares how practices such as choosing a “word of the year,” memorizing Scripture and naming both joy and sorrow can shape spiritual growth. She offers moving insights on gratitude, mortality and the grace found in everyday family life. She also reflects on how her twin daughters, who died shortly after birth, remain a living presence in her family through prayer and the communion of saints.

Dec. 28, 2025 | Wrapping up 2025 with Archbishop Lori

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0400

With the death of Pope Francis and the conclave to elect Pope Leo XIV, it's an understatement to say that 2025 was a busy year for the church. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty sat down for an extensive conversation with Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori about the papal transition and issues of concern to the local church. The archbishop talked about good news on the vocations front, the impact of Seek the City changes on parishes and the upcoming fifth anniversary of the Institute for Evangelism in the archdiocese. He also focused on the pain experienced by victim-survivors of clergy sexual abuse and the negotiations underway in the archdiocese’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization.

Dec. 21, 2025 | Inside the diaconate

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0400

The Archdiocese of Baltimore was among the first in the nation to ordain permanent deacons. Yet more than 50 years later, many Catholics still wonder how deacons serve the Church and what distinguishes their ministry.

On this episode of Catholic Review Radio, George Matysek explores the diaconate from its apostolic origins to its modern-day expression. The program begins with Father Michael Foppiano, pastor of St. Mark in Fallston and director of the permanent diaconate for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, who addresses common misunderstandings about permanent and transitional deacons, explains their liturgical role at Mass and outlines the formation process for men discerning this vocation.

Later in the program, listeners hear from Deacon Tim Maloney, a teacher at Archbishop Curley High School in Baltimore, who reflects on more than 16 years of ordained ministry, and Darron Woodus, pastoral associate and director of parish operations at Holy Family in Randallstown, who is currently in formation for the diaconate. Together, they share personal stories of discernment, theological studies at St. Mary’s Seminary in Roland Park and the realities of balancing ministry, marriage, family life and parish service.

Dec. 14, 2025 | Black and Native American heritage and mission

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0400

George Matysek talks with Father Maurice Henry Sands, executive director of the U.S. Bishops’ Black and Indian Mission Office in Washington, D.C. A priest of the Archdiocese of Detroit and a member of the Ojibwe, Odawa and Potawatomi tribes, Father Sands brings a deeply personal perspective to the Church’s long history with Native and African American communities.

Father Sands reflects on his upbringing in a First Nations community, his family’s enduring Catholic roots dating back generations and the often-untold stories of Indigenous Catholics who embraced the faith with heroic courage. He also discusses the Catholic Church’s ongoing efforts toward healing and reconciliation with Native peoples, including recent gestures from Popes Francis and Leo XIV.

The conversation explores the mission office’s 150-year history, its advocacy for Native and African American Catholics and its support of Catholic education across the country. Father Sands also introduces a new documentary produced by the office, highlighting the lives of African American candidates for sainthood and the vibrant faith of Black Catholic communities, including those in Baltimore.

Dec. 7, 2025 | Discovering Our Lady's Center

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Rita Bittner sits down with Jack Kissane, longtime board president of Our Lady’s Center in Ellicott City, and Christine Cunningham, the center’s manager. Founded in 1974 as an oratory shrine and family apostolate, Our Lady’s Center welcomes thousands each year to draw closer to Jesus through the Blessed Mother.

Kissane reflects on the center’s 50-year history, including its origins with founder Frank Lancelotta, the devastating fire that destroyed the building and the faith-driven rebuilding process that followed.

Christine discusses her path from homeschooling mother to center manager, highlighting the center’s worship schedule, vibrant devotions, religious goods shop and programs for children and Catholic families.

Nov. 30, 2025 | Advent and St. Nicholas

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Advent is a special season for Catholics as we prepare to celebrate the Incarnation of our Lord. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty is joined by two guests to talk about these days of anticipation. In the first segment, we talk with Oblate Sister of St. Francis de Sales Audrey Frances Moran, who teaches fourth grade religion at Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Towson, about how she explains Advent practices to her students. In the second segment, Mike McGrew talks about his new illustrated children’s book about St. Nicholas, “The Boy Who Would Be Santa.” He talks about the things he learned about St. Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus, as he played the saint at Christmas markets and in his research.

Nov. 23, 2025 | A Catholic heart in legal defense

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Mark Viviano talks with Baltimore-area attorney Mark Scheuerman, a devout Catholic and parishioner of St. John the Evangelist in Severna Park, whose faith is the foundation of his legal practice. Scheuerman, founder of Scheuerman Law, discusses what it means to bring compassion, integrity and moral clarity into a profession often seen as ruthless. He shares powerful stories from his work in criminal defense, from helping clients rebuild their lives to guiding them toward healing and hope. Scheuerman also reflects on his experiences in prison ministry, the mentors who shaped his vocation and the moments of faith that led him to serve those in need through the law.

Nov. 16, 2025 | Incredible Catholic America

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Do you know which Catholic Church in the United States has the longest main aisle or which cemetery serves as the final resting place for more Hall of Fame baseball players than any other in the country? And do you know the name of the Russian prince who became a priest in the newly formed the United States of America?

Believe it or not, the answers to all of those questions have ties to the Archdiocese of Baltimore. George Matysek talks with Marion Amberg about those amazing stories and much more.

Amberg is the author of "Incredible Catholic America: Smallest, Tallest, Oldest, Oddest," a fascinating collection of more than 300 stories about the people, places, and traditions that make Catholic America unique. She's also the author of two award-winning Catholic travel books and a journalist whose work appears in more than 100 markets nationwide.

Nov. 9, 2025 | A journey to the Carmelite hermitage

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0400

What leads a parish priest to leave the busyness of ministry for a life of silence and solitude? In this episode, George Matysek talks with Father Peter of Jesus — formerly a priest of the Archdiocese of Baltimore known as Father Patrick Peach — about his faith-filled journey to a Carmelite Hermitage in Minnesota. Father Peter, a graduate of Calvert Hall College High School in Towson, reflects on what drew him to the contemplative life and shares how the wisdom of St. Teresa of Avila can help anyone seeking a deeper connection with God amid the noise of everyday life.

Nov. 2, 2025 | Supporting the grieving, honoring the departed

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0400

How we remember our loved ones has changed over the years — but the need to grieve, honor and support one another remains timeless. In this All Souls Day episode, Michael Ruck Sr., president of Ruck Funeral Homes and parishioner of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore, joins Rita Buettner for a heartfelt conversation about the evolving ways families remember those they’ve lost. Together, they explore how we can keep memories alive, walk with others through grief, and find comfort in faith and community.

Oct. 26, 2025 | Catholic Extension Society provides much-needs support in dioceses across the country

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

The Catholic Extension Society has been helping mission dioceses in the United States since 1905. Father Jack Wall, a priest of the Archdiocese of Chicago, has been its president since 2007. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Father Wall about the ways that Catholic Extension helps almost half of the dioceses in the US find the resources they need to ensure the church is vibrant and transformative in those areas.

Oct. 12, 2025 | Ask a Bishop with Bishop Adam J. Parker

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Bishop Adam J. Parker answers a wide variety of questions from our listeners on our third installment of our "Ask a Bishop" edition of Catholic Review Radio. Just a few topics he addresses include ways of inviting people into the church, changes to confirmation policies, the state of archdiocesan bankruptcy proceedings, the election of Pope Leo, eucharistic processions and how to become Catholic. Bishop Parker serves as auxiliary bishop of Baltimore, vicar general and moderator of the Curia. He was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Baltimore in 2000 and became a bishop in 2017.

Oct. 5, 2025 | Rita Buettner and Faith for Working Moms

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 08:00:00 -0400

Do you connect the things happening in your everyday life to your faith? Things such as taking the carrots out of your son’s soup, or watching the Olympics? Catholic Review columnist Rita Buettner has a knack for that, in her column in the print edition or in her online blog. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty sat down with Rita to talk about how she is able to find links between what’s going on at home and what the saints have to say. And listen for a special announcement about how Rita will expand her reach to Catholic Review readers and listeners.

Sept. 28, 2025 | “Broken Mary: The Kevin Matthews Story”

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0400

What would you do if you found a statue of our Blessed Mother in a dumpster behind a florist shop? Former radio DJ Kevin Matthews had to face that question. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Matthews about his fateful find, and how he had the statue repaired just enough to show that Mary is the mother of all those who are broken. Now a speaker and leader of prayer services, Matthews takes Broken Mary all over the country, helping people to see how Jesus and his mother love us in spite of our sins. Matthews and the statue are the subject of a new documentary that will be in 1,000 theaters across the country for one night only, Oct. 7. Find out what makes Matthews’ journey with the Blessed Mother so special.

Sept. 21, 2025 | Vocations flourish in Archdiocese of Baltimore

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400

In recent years, the Archdiocese of Baltimore has been blessed with a significant increase in the number of men and women stepping forward to answer the call to religious life. Joining us to talk about is Father Stephen Roth, Director of Vocations and Associate Vicar for Clergy for the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Father Roth, a former pastor of St. Isaac Jogues in Carney, was ordained to the priesthood in 2012 and has served as vocations director since 2018.

Sept. 14, 2025 | Catholic movie director Sean McNamara and “Bau: Artist at War”

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400

What’s the difference between a faith-based movie and a “faith-adjacent” movie? How do producers and directors ensure they are creating films that inspire and uplift viewers? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with writer and director Sean McNamara about these topics, and about his new movie, due in theaters Sept. 26, “Bau: Artist at War.” The new film is based on a true story of love that emerged from the concentration camps in Poland. At its heart is the relationship between Joseph, a cartographer who forged passports and other documents that allowed many Jewish Poles to be saved, and Rebecca, whom he met at married in the camp.

Sept. 7, 2025 | John Harbaugh on faith, family and football

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:01:00 -0400

Now in his 18th season with the Ravens, head coach John Harbaugh is celebrated for championships and playoff runs. But his Catholic faith and family values shape him even more. Mark Viviano talks with Harbaugh about purpose, prayer, parenting and how faith fuels life on and off the field.

Aug. 31, 2025 | Little Portion Farm cares for hungry and creation

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 12:00:00 -0400

Little Portion Farm, a ministry of the Conventual Franciscans, has been feeding the hungry and caring for creation since 2019. Using sustainable methods, the Ellicott City farm has donated more than 100,000 pounds of fresh produce to those in need. Father Michael Heine, provincial leader of the Our Lady of the Angels Province, and Matt Jones, manager of Little Portion Farm, talk with George Matysek about Little Portion Farm. Father Heine, who became provincial leader in 2022, has also served as vicar provincial, directed the Shrine of St. Anthony in Ellicott City, ministered in counseling at Archbishop Curley High School in Baltimore and spent four years as a missionary in Jamaica. Matt Jones has overseen Little Portion Farm from its start, transforming three empty acres into a thriving ecosystem. He’s organized thousands of volunteers and manages the farm’s daily operations. Before that, he worked in environmental policy for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Aug. 24, 2025 | An Orphan Finds a Masterpiece – “Boy of Heaven”

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 12:00:38 -0400

A 17th-century Italian orphan finds the long-lost piece of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper, missing since Dominican friars cut out a portion of the wall to connect the priory's refectory with its kitchen. That’s the basic premise of “Boy of Heaven,” a novel by Morris Hoffman. As the tale takes us through the trials and tribulations of the story, eternal themes emerge. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with the author, a former judge who has seen his share of good and evil in the courtroom, about how the characters in “Boy of Heaven” reflect the choices we all have to make about which side we are on.

Aug. 17, 2025 | Back to School with the New Superintendent

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 12:00:19 -0400

It’s back-to-school time and for School Sister of Notre Dame Patricia McCarron, that means a new job. She stepped down as head of school at Notre Dame Prep in Towson at the end of the school year and now is the superintendent of schools for the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Sister Patricia about what inspired her to become a School Sister of Notre Dame, why she finds joy in education, and her vision for schools in the archdiocese as she takes the helm.

Aug. 10, 2025 | The situation in Gaza with Catholic Near East Welfare Association

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 12:00:23 -0400

In October 2023, the militant group Hamas attacked Israel, killing more than 1,200 people and kidnapping hundreds. Israel retaliated and now, nearly two years later, the conflict continues. In this episode of Catholic Review Radio, Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Joseph Hazboun, regional director for Catholic Near East Welfare Association, a pontifical mission. Hazboun says the situation in the Gaza Strip is unspeakably tragic. More than 60,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict, while starvation and famine are imminent. He discusses the need for prayer and political pressure to end the conflict, as CNEWA and other aid organizations try to help wherever and however they can.

Aug. 3, 2025 | The Vatican Observatory

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 12:00:36 -0400

The heavens are full of wonder, and the astronomers who work for the Vatican Observatory probably know that better than most people on earth. In this episode of Catholic Review Radio, Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Jesuit Father Paul Gabor, vice director of the Vatican Observatory in Tucson, Ariz., about the intersection between faith and science. As a scientist, he is grateful for the gift of understanding the universe, and receiving that as a gift from God. The Vatican Observatory has been around for centuries, studying the cosmos.

July 27, 2025 | The true story of 'Xavier Rynne'

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 12:00:16 -0400

During the Second Vatican Council, a mysterious voice began reporting from inside the closed-door sessions — exposing tensions and calling for reform. That voice belonged to Xavier Rynne, the pseudonym of Father Francis Xavier Murphy, a Redemptorist priest who risked everything to write anonymously about the council’s inner workings. George Matysek talks with Richard A. Zmuda, author of the new historical novel "The Mole of Vatican Council II," which brings Father Murphy’s remarkable story to life. Zmuda, a parishioner of the Redemptorist parish of St. Mary in Annapolis, draws on personal letters, diaries and secret Vatican files to explore why Father Murphy wrote, what he risked and how his bold reporting still echoes in today’s Church.

July 20, 2025 | Youth ministry changing with the times

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 12:00:08 -0400

Youth ministry has been undergoing some critical shifts over the last several years within the Archdiocese of Baltimore. George Matysek talks with Stacy Golden and Rena Black from the archdiocese's Institute for Evangelization about what those shifts have been and why they are necessary. Golden is the director of the Office of Family, Youth and Young Adults in the Institute for Evangelization. Black is coordinator for missionary discipleship in the same office.

July 13, 2025 | The music and ministry of Seph Schlueter

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 12:00:08 -0400

Making music can be a way to celebrate with God and invite others to follow him, according to Catholic musician Seph Schlueter. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty chatted with Schlueter (pronounced SHLEE-TUR) about the inspiration for his music and how one of his tunes went viral in Brazil even before it made it big in the U.S. The interview includes snippets of three songs from Seph’s new LP.

July 6, 2025 | Exploring the Nicene Creed: Part Two

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 12:00:57 -0400

In honor of the 1,700th anniversary of the establishment of the Nicene Creed, we have been taking a closer look at what the creed says and means. Last week, we explored the historic circumstances surrounding the creation of the creed and it’s declarations regarding God the Father. On today’s episode, we look at what the creed has to say about God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Our first guest is Father Justin Gough, chaplain of Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg. Father Gough is a Baltimore native, ordained to the priesthood in 2020. Father Gough, a former associate pastor of the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland and St. Thomas Aquinas in Hampden, holds a licentiate in dogmatic and fundamental theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas (the Angelicum) in Rome and a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Providence College. The guest in our second segment is Deacon Frederick "Fritz" Bauerschmidt, a theology professor at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore who serves as a permanent deacon assigned to the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore. Deacon Bauerschmidt was raised in South Carolina, and studied theology at Yale Divinity School and Duke University. He is the author of numerous books and was the recipient of the 2023 Michael Ramsey Prize for Theological Writing, awarded by the Archbishop of Canterbury. Special thanks to James J. Richardson, a musician and singer, who provided the chant of the Nicene Creed featured on this program. Learn more at psallitedomino.com.

June 29, 2025 | Exploring the Nicene Creed: Part One

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 12:00:19 -0400

On May 20, Christians around the world marked 1,700 years since the opening of the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. Held in Asia Minor—what’s now modern-day Turkey—it was the first ecumenical council in Church history. It set the stage for one of the most important statements of Christian belief: the Nicene Creed. On today’s show—and again next week—we’re diving into the Creed: where it came from, what we mean when we say it and why it still matters. To begin the series, George Matysek speaks with Dr. Paige Hochschild about the historical and theological context in which the Creed was written. He also talks with Father Raymond Harris about what the Creed reveals about our belief in God the Father. Dr. Hochschild is a theology professor at Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg who completed her Ph.D. in theology from Durham University in the United Kingdom in 2007. Father Harris is pastor of Holy Family in Randallstown. He earned a bachelor’s degree in religion from Princeton University before entering St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore to study for the priesthood. He also earned a Licentiate in Canon Law from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. Special thanks to James J. Richardson, a musician and singer, who provided the chant of the Nicene Creed featured on this program. Learn more at https://psallitedomino.com.

June 22, 2025 | How religious freedom is being challenged today

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 12:00:34 -0400

June 22 marks the launch of the U.S. Bishops’ annual Religious Freedom Week, a time set aside for Catholics to pray, reflect and act to promote religious freedom in the United States and around the world. Joining us to talk about religious freedom is Aaron Weldon, Assistant Director for Religious Liberty at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Washington. Weldon holds a doctorate in theology from The Catholic University of America in Washington and is a parishioner of St. Francis de Sales in Washington.

June 15, 2025 | Books and Authors: Inspiring Trailblazers

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 12:00:23 -0400

It’s Books and Authors Week on Catholic Review Radio, and Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with two authors whose books feature literal and spiritual trailblazers. First up is Josh McMullen, who wrote about “The Glacier Priest: Father Bernard Hubbard and America’s Last Frontier,” about the Jesuit’s amazing adventures exploring in Alaska. The second half of the show features Vinita Hampton Wright, who brings us “Blazing the Trail: A 4-Week Retreat with American Women of the Church.” The spiritual guides for the retreat are St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. Francis Xavier Cabrini, Servant of God Dorothy Day and Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman. Wright says the four women blazed trails in different walks of life and different ages.

June 8, 2025 | From astrophysics to religious life: Mount de Sales shares faith journey

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 12:00:25 -0400

As a young woman, Dominican Sister Albertine Cevallos thought for sure that her life would center on science. Growing up in a rationalist, science-focused home, she graduated from Caltech with an astrophysics degree. But along her journey, she discovered serving God and advancing scientific knowledge are not mutually exclusive. Today, she serves as a science teacher at Mount de Sales Academy in Catonsville while living the charism of her religious community, the Dominican Sisters of St. Celicia of Nashville. Sister Albertine talks with George Matysek about her vocation.

June 1, 2025 | Baltimore sports broadcaster shares the importance of his Catholic faith

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 12:00:16 -0400

Jim Hunter, the former longtime play-by-play announcer for the Baltimore Orioles and a fixture in Baltimore sports broadcasting, is a devoted Catholic and an active parishioner of St. Mark in Fallston. Mark Viviano talks with Hunter about his years in broadcasting, his journey of faith, his openness to sharing his spiritual beliefs with others and the importance of family.

May 25, 2025 | The beginning of Pope Leo’s ministry

Mon, 26 May 2025 12:00:06 -0400

Pope Leo XIV was formally inaugurated as the successor of Peter in a Mass May 18 in St. Peter’s Square. Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori was among the concelebrants of the Mass, and he shares his reflections about being there for the historic event, and his hopes for the future of the church with Pope Leo. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty also talks with Matthew Bunson, vice president and editorial director of EWTN about his presence in Rome since the death of Pope Francis and the new biography of Pope Leo he wrote, published now by EWTN.

May 18, 2025 | Grow in your relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary

Mon, 19 May 2025 12:01:01 -0400

May is traditionally celebrated as a month dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Catholic Church — a time for special devotions, prayers and reflection on her role in salvation history. George Matysek talks with Father Brian Nolan, pastor of St. Ignatius of Loyola in Ijamsville, about why Catholics have such love for Mary and ways for drawing closer to her. Father Nolan also dispels some common misconceptions about Mary and shares some personal stories about his connection to her.

May 11, 2025 | Meet the Mount St. Mary's graduate and Vatican journalist who served as a lector at the papal funeral

Mon, 12 May 2025 12:00:05 -0400

Millions of people around the world watched or listened to the funeral of Pope Francis live from Rome on April 26 — a solemn and historic moment for the Catholic Church. One of the voices heard during that liturgy was Kielce Gussie, a Vatican journalist who had the honor of proclaiming the first reading at the Mass. A graduate of Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg and a reporter with Vatican News, Gussie has spent years covering the life of the Catholic Church from the heart of Rome. She joins George Matysek to reflect on the extraordinary opportunity to be a part of a papal funeral Mass and her vocation as a Catholic communicator.

May 4, 2025 | Preparing for the Conclave

Mon, 05 May 2025 12:00:42 -0400

As the College of Cardinals prepares for the conclave to elect a new pope May 7, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty gets some inside info from Monsignor Richard Hilgartner, pastor of St. Joseph parish in Cockeysville, Md., and former executive director of the Secretariat of Divine Worship at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Monsignor Hilgartner talks about what it was like to be in St. Peter’s Square to see the white smoke signaling the election of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger in 2005. He also provides some details on the process for voting in the Sistine Chapel.

Apr. 27, 2025 | The Death of Pope Francis and the Upcoming Conclave

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:00:46 -0400

As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis April 21 at age 88, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with people who have experienced the pope personally. Baltimore Archbishop William Lori recalls his encounters with the pope. Cardinal Edwin O’Brien, former archbishop of Baltimore and retired grand master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher, says that the pontiff’s witness to the love of Christ strengthened him, even in illness. Longtime Vatican reporter and editor John Thavis provides some details on how the conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor will work.

Apr. 20, 2025 | Archdiocese of Baltimore embraces lower age for confirmation

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 12:00:20 -0400

Earlier this year, Archbishop William E. Lori announced that the standard age for receiving the sacrament of Confirmation will be lowered to 9 in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. The previous age had been set at 14-16. George Matysek discusses the reasons for the change with Stacy Golden, director of the Office of Family, Youth and Young Adult Ministry within the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s Institute for Evangelization, and Kenn deMoll, director of formation and innovation at St. John in Westminster – a parish that has already implemented the lower age for confirmation as part of a pilot program.

Apr. 13, 2025 | Books and Authors: “Fulton Sheen” and “Pain to Peace”

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:00:35 -0400

It’s a books and authors episode of Catholic Review Radio. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with authors of two new books. First up is Cheryl C.D. Hughes, whose book “Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker” talks about how the famed televangelist brought people to the Catholic faith – sometimes in well-attended revivals and rallies, and other times one on one. In the second segment, we chatted with Sherrie Palmateer, a local youth minister and director of religious education, whose book “From Pain to Peace: Weekly Prayers for Those Who Suffer,” shows how to take the hard things in life and bring them to God for healing.

Apr. 6, 2025 | The Death Penalty

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Holy Week calls attention to the death penalty, since Jesus Christ himself was an innocent put to death by capital punishment. The topic is top-of-mind these days as the new presidential administration wants to increase the use of the punishment, and some states are using new methods of execution, including lethal gas/suffocation and firing squads. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy, executive director of the Catholic Mobilizing Network, which fights the use of the death penalty and works toward restorative justice solutions. She says that the church’s opposition, clearly defined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, focuses on the inherent human dignity of every human, and notes that we need to do a better job of educating Catholics and others about the issues surrounding capital punishment.

Mar. 30, 2025 | Why Dante's 'Inferno' matters today

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Dante’s "Inferno," the first part of "The Divine Comedy," is widely regarded as one of the greatest poems ever written. The epic journey through hell explores the nature of sin and virtue in a way that remains relevant today. In this episode of Catholic Review Radio, host George Matysek speaks with Jason M. Baxter, a professor and executive director of the Center for Beauty and Culture at Benedictine College in Kansas. A convert to Catholicism, Baxter recently published a new English translation of "Inferno" through Angelico Press.

Mar. 23, 2025 | Movie: “The Last Supper”

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

As we come to the final weeks of Lent, a new movie takes a look especially at that seminal event for the church – “The Last Supper” – where Jesus showed his disciples what it means to serve and established the Eucharist. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Mauro Borrelli, the director of the new movie from executive producer Chris Tomlin, in theaters now, about the themes the film takes on. Gunty and Borrelli talk about how the feeding of the thousands with a few loaves and two fish presages the Last Supper, and how the Apostles around Jesus experience a rollercoaster of emotion in Holy Week.

Mar. 16, 2025 | A unique vocational journey

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Mark Viviano chats with his big brother, Father Tony Viviano, about his unique journey to the priesthood. Father Viviano is a priest of the Diocese of Jefferson City, Mo., who discerned a call to the priesthood later in life. Father Viviano, a father of a daughter and grandfather of five, was ordained a priest at age 49 in 2012, and now serves as pastor of two rural parishes in Missouri.

Mar. 9, 2025 | Ask a bishop with Bishop Adam J. Parker

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Baltimore Auxiliary Bishop Adam J. Parker returns for another round of questions from our listeners in our second-ever "Ask a Bishop" episode of Catholic Review Radio. He fields topics including how to encourage young people to attend Mass, the bishops' presence in Western Maryland, abortion, bringing anger to God and more.

Mar. 2, 2025 | Lent and Fasting

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Fasting practices for Lent are not just about giving up chocolate. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Deacon Greg Kandra of the Deacon’s Bench blog about his new book, “A Handy Little Guide to Fasting” from OSV Books. They discuss the essential practices of Lent for Catholics – prayer, fasting and almsgiving – and how to enhance your spiritual life in this penitential season. He also talks about just returning from Rome for the Jubilee for Deacons, part of the Jubilee Year of Hope, and how the world is uniting in prayer for Pope Francis as he is in the hospital

Feb. 23, 2025 | Celebrating the 50th anniversary of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton's canonization

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0400

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the canonization of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first-American born saint and one of the great heroines of the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Joining us to talk about St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and some special events that are coming up to honor the anniversary of her canonization is Rob Judge, executive director of the Seton Shrine in Emmitsburg and a parishioner of St. Mary in Hagerstown.

BONUS Episode: Hollywood and the Oscars (with additional content)

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty, along with guest co-host Ann Augherton of the Arlington Catholic Herald, have a wide-ranging, sometimes wild, conversation with two Catholic movie experts: Pauline Sister Rose Pacatte and John Mulderig, film reviewer for OSV News. Hear their recommendations for the winners, and what they wished the entertainment industry would focus on this year. This bonus episode features discussion of additional Oscar-nominated films – including “Anora” and “Emilia Perez,” two films that are edgier and more morally complex than typical films – and other trends in Hollywood.

Feb. 16, 2025 | The Oscars and Hollywood

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0400

The Oscars are coming, the Oscars are coming! It’s time to take a look at nominees for the top film honors and other trends in Hollywood before the Oscars broadcast March 2, 7 p.m. on ABC and streaming on Hulu. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty, along with guest co-host Ann Augherton of the Arlington Catholic Herald, had a wide-ranging, sometimes wild, conversation with two Catholic movie experts: Pauline Sister Rose Pacatte and John Mulderig, film reviewer for OSV News. Hear their recommendations for the winners, and what they wished the entertainment industry would focus on this year.

Feb. 9, 2025 | Finding hope in the midst of sorrow

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Kathy Wandishin’s youngest child, John, was diagnosed with leukemia when he was just 10 years old. For more than five years, he and his family would undergo many unbelievable trials before the young Archbishop Curley High School student ultimately died just one day before his 16th birthday in 2005. In a new book, “Climbing the Rainbow,” Kathy shares her family’s harrowing journey and offers some profound insights about the nature of grief and the importance of hope and trust in God. Kathy is a lifeline parishioner of St. Clare in Essex who now attends Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Essex. She has long worked for the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, having served at St. Clare, Archbishop Curley, the Catholic Center in Baltimore and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore.

Feb. 2, 2025 | Catholic Men’s Spirituality

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0400

What does authentic Catholic male spirituality look like? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with two experts on the topic to get their take on how best to encourage and support men looking to develop and enhance their Catholic faith, so they can be better men, able to serve others, whether as husbands, fathers, priests or single lay men. Our guests this week are Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers, author, speaker and radio host; and Mark Hartfiel, vice president of Paradisus Dei, and a leader of That Man Is You, a Catholic men’s leadership program. Both will be speaking in the region in April at different events.

Jan. 26, 2025 | St. Paul Street Evangelization

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Are you comfortable sharing your faith with family and friends? What about people you might encounter on the street? St. Paul Street Evangelization grew out of encounters Steve Dawson had with people at a street festival in Portland, Ore., detailed in the book “Catholic Street Evangelization: Stories of Conversion and Witness.” Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Bob Wilson, who now works with St. Paul Street Evangelization in Michigan, about the motivation and methods for reaching out to people to invite them to a relationship with Jesus in the Catholic Church.

Jan. 19, 2025 | Incoming March for Life president looks at pro-life priorities

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0400

As pro-life supporters prepare to gather in Washington Jan. 24 for the 52nd annual March for Life, the March for Life organization is preparing to welcome Jennie Bradley Lichter as its new president. Lichter, who takes office in February, will be among those speaking at this year’s march. She previously served as deputy general counsel at The Catholic University of America in Washington and oversaw a campus-wide initiative offering support to pregnant students, faculty and staff. During the first Trump administration, Lichter was deputy assistant to the president and deputy director of the White House Domestic Policy Council. In our first segment, Lichter talks with George Matysek about the pro-life movement and the upcoming march. In our second segment, we feature the powerful keynote address of Gloria Purvis, a nationally known Catholic speaker and pro-life activist, at the 2023 Maryland March for Life. This year’s Maryland March for Life is set for March 27 in Annapolis.

Jan. 12, 2025 | American Politics and Two-Party Dominance

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0400

As the United States prepares to swear in a new president, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty takes a look at the state of politics and elections. His first guest is Peter Sonski, who was the American Solidarity Party nominee for president in 2024. Sonski talks about how his party’s platform is more fully aligned with the spectrum of Catholic social teaching than the two main parties, and how difficult it is for third-party candidates to get on the ballot. The guest in the second segment is Michael Towle, a political science professor at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, who talks further about third-party runs, the Electoral College system and how Catholics can make a difference in elections.

Jan. 5, 2025 | A conversation with the Baltimore Ravens’ team chaplain

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Rev. Johnny Shelton serves as the official team chaplain for the Baltimore Ravens. He joined the Ravens in 2013 after serving in fulltime ministry with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in North Carolina (he was team chaplain at Elon University) and Virginia Tech (he was team chaplain at Virginia Tech). Rev. Shelton was ordained by Bishop George W. Brooks, pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina. He is currently a member of New Psalmist Baptist Church in Baltimore. Rev. Shelton talks with Mark Viviano about his unique role as a chaplain and life coach for a National Football League team, sharing his faith journey and his responsibilities as a spiritual mentor in the ultra-competitive world of professional sports.

Dec. 29, 2024 | Year-end 2024 with Archbishop Lori

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0400

As we come to the end of 2024, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty sits down with Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori to look at the year that is ending, which included the World Synod of Bishops, lots of activity around the Seek the City to Come initiative that reshapes ministry in Baltimore City with an emphasis on evangelizing communities, the upsurge in vocations and more. Archbishop Lori also looks ahead to 2025 and the celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope.

Dec. 22, 2024 | Hope for the Holidays

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0400

With the holidays upon us and all the many expectations that come with them, many people can feel overwhelmed at this time of the year. In this encore episode of Catholic Review Radio, Paul Jarzembowski offers inspiration and some practical advice for celebrating the holidays in a meaningful, hope-filled way. Jarzembowski, a parishioner of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Crofton, is the author of a book from Paulist Press, “Hope for the Holidays: Finding Light at the Darkest Time of the Year.” He is Associate Director for Laity with the U .S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Dec. 15, 2024 | Seminarians delve into charismatic prayer

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt the call to pray with your whole heart, soul and voice? On this episode, we dive into charismatic prayer – a powerful and expressive form of worship that’s just alive in the Catholic Church as it is in some Protestant faith traditions. What is it? How does it connect us more deeply with the Holy Spirit? And how can it transform your faith? Benjamin Oursler and Jack Morris, two seminarians studying to become priests for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, are involved in the Charismatic movement and have received training charismatic prayer through a two-year program called the Encounter School of Ministry. They share their experiences with charismatic prayer with George Matysek. Oursler is from St. John the Evangelist parish in Severna Park. He currently is studying at the Pontifical North American College in Rome. Norris is from St. Louis parish in Clarksville and is currently on his pastoral year at the Pastorate of St. John the Evangelist in Frederick and St. Joseph-on-Carrollton Manor in Buckeystown.

Dec. 8, 2024 | The Jubilee Year of Hope

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Jubilee years are a tradition from the Old Testament. In the church today, jubilees are declared every 25 years, with some special jubilees in between. Pope Francis has declared 2025 as a Jubilee of Hope, and that will be an opportunity for celebrations in your home parish or diocese and by visiting Rome to walk through specially designated Holy Doors. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty sat down with Marilyn Santos, associate director of Evangelization and Catechesis for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, who will be coordinating resources for dioceses and parishes to use to help celebrate the jubilee. Gunty also talked with Religious Sister of Mercy Maria Juan Anderson, who is coordinator of the U.S. Bishops’ Office for Visitors to the Vatican in Rome. She talk about how her office helps visitors with tickets to papal events and the sacrament of reconciliation, and how her team will prepare to assist the tens of millions of additional visitors to Rome expected in the jubilee year.

Dec. 1, 2024 | Christmas Movies

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0400

It’s time for holiday movies on TV and all your favorite streaming services, with some stations running Christmas films 24 hours a day. Are you ready for the classics and the new movies? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Jason Cherubini, an executive-in-residence at Loyola University Maryland about the business behind holiday movies and why there are so many of them. It’s good business, he says, because people are searching for connection and comfort at this time of year. But the ones that become classics are those that resonate with people year after year.

Nov. 24, 2024 | St. Thomas Aquinas and the search for truth

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0400

St. Thomas Aquinas, a doctor of the church, was known for being able to make the teachings of the church clear to anyone who asked. Known as “The Common Doctor” because he could address all people and any topic, St. Thomas is considered one of the greatest thinkers of all time. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Dominican Father Ambrose Little about a new online program offered by the Thomistic Institute called “Aquinas 101,” which helps viewers go through short videos about various concepts, aimed at the search for truth. Father Little notes that truth is not subjective, but enduring.

Nov. 17, 2024 | New books invite children to explore faith in deeper ways

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Two Daughters of St. Paul have published new books geared to children. In our first segment, we talk with Sister Orianne Pietra René Dyck about “Dive Deep: Forty Days with God at Sea,” a children’s devotional that traces salvation history from creation until today through Bible stories that take place at sea. In our second segment, we talk with Sister Allison Regina Gliot, author of “Eli’s Quiet Friend,” a book a book about a young boy who experiences eucharistic adoration in a special way.

Nov. 10, 2024 | Mercy Health 150th anniversary

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0400

From humble beginnings serving a small Catholic health dispensary in Baltimore, Mercy Health Services has grown over 150 years to a full-service system serving thousands of people each year, continuing with a special effort to serve women and those who are poor. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Sister Helen Amos, RSM, chair of the executive chair of the Mercy board, about how the sisters’ charism remains a focus of the hospital, and with Dr. David Maine, president and CEO, about how the health system focuses on meeting the community’s needs now and in the future.

Nov. 3, 2024 | The value of silence

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

In a world where noise seems to reign supreme, what’s the value of silence? How do we make room for silence in our lives? And how can silence help us in our spiritual journey? George Matysek talks about it with Dominican Father Dominic Koester. Father Koester is the associate pastor of Ss. Philip and James in Baltimore and the assistant chaplain for the Catholic Community at The Johns Hopkins University, located just a few steps away from the parish. He also serves as chaplain for the Baltimore Frassati Fellowship, a young adult ministry based at Ss. Philip and James.

Oct. 27, 2024 | Family Theater Productions

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Where can you go these days to find movies that lift up human values of goodness, truth and beauty? Look no further than Family Theater Productions, a ministry of the Holy Cross fathers, inspired by the legacy of Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, famous for the axiom, “The family that prays together stays together.” Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Holy Cross Father David Guffey, national director and head of production at Family Theater Productions about the work it produces, and about a new film that will begin airing in November on PBS stations, “Playing Like a Girl: The House that Rob Built.”

Oct. 20, 2024 | The World Synod of Bishops

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Delegates from all around the world are gathered this month in Rome for the second session of the World Synod of Bishops on Synodality. Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori is among them, participating in the prayerful discussions about how the Holy Spirit moves in the Church and the World. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Archbishop Lori while he was in Rome. The archbishop explains how the synod process works and how the delegates – which include priests, religious and lay people as voting members in addition to bishops for the first time – will vote on proposals to pass along to Pope Francis.

Oct. 13, 2024 | Catholics and the election

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 12:00:07 -0400

Catholics may be in a quandary as they approach the voting booth this season, because there are no candidates who are completely in line with Catholic social teaching and the values the church holds. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Jenny Kraska, executive director of the Maryland Catholic Conference, about how Catholics are “homeless” in today’s political landscape. She also talks about the constitutional referendum, Maryland Question 1 - the Right to Reproductive Freedom Act and why Marylanders should vote against the ballot measure.

Oct. 6, 2024 | Ask a Bishop with Bishop Adam J. Parker

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 12:00:49 -0400

Listeners of Catholic Review Radio get their chance to ask Baltimore Auxiliary Bishop Adam J. Parker whatever questions are on their mind in this first-ever “Ask a Bishop” episode of the program. Bishop Parker was ordained to the priesthood in 2000 by Cardinal William H. Keeler. From 2001 to 2005, he served as associate pastor of three parishes in Allegany County and in 2005 was named pastor of Church of the Ascension in Halethorpe. In 2007, he was appointed priest-secretary to then-Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien, and was named a monsignor by Pope Benedict XVI in 2011. In 2012, Monsignor Parker was assigned to Rome, where he continued to assist the newly elevated Cardinal O’Brien, who had been appointed Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem. Upon his return to the Archdiocese of Baltimore in 2013, he served as vice chancellor for one year prior to being appointed vicar general and moderator of the curia by Archbishop William E. Lori. In December 2016, Pope Francis appointed Monsignor Parker auxiliary bishop of Baltimore and he was ordained a bishop in January 2017.

Sept. 29, 2024 | Exploring ‘Story of a Soul’

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 12:00:17 -0400

Beginning Oct. 1, Ascension Press offers a 28-day podcast designed to guide listeners through a reading of “Story of a Soul,” the much-loved spiritual autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. George Matysek talks about the project with one of the hosts of the new podcast, Carmelite Father Michael-Joseph Paris of St. Thérèse. Father Michael-Joseph is a native of the Archdiocese of Baltimore who grew up at St. John the Evangelist in Columbia. He was a seminarian at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg and was ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Washington in 2011. In 2016, Father Michael-Joseph entered initial formation with the Discalced Carmelites and made his first profession of vows in 2018. He studied Carmelite spirituality in both Ávila and Madrid and professed his final vows with the Carmelites last year. Father Michael-Joseph currently serves as subprior and director of postulants in Wisconsin.

Sept. 22, 2024 | Sexton’s Lodge Café fosters fellowship with people experiencing homelessness

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 12:00:45 -0400

Earlier this spring, the Sexton’s Lodge Café opened at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore. Blessed by Archbishop William E. Lori in April, the café is envisioned as a place where people from throughout the region can gather for fellowship over free coffee. It is especially geared toward welcoming people experiencing homelessness who live on the streets and alleys surrounding the nation’s first cathedral in the heart of the city’s cultural district. George Matysek talks about this new endeavor with Father Brendan Fitzgerald, rector of the Baltimore Basilica, and Maria Veres, director of mission advancement for the basilica.

Sept. 15, 2024 | Baltimore archdiocese welcomes increasing number of seminarians

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 12:00:04 -0400

In June, Archbishop William E. Lori ordained six men to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Baltimore at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen. The year before, he ordained eight to the priesthood, which was the biggest class of new priest in the Baltimore Archdiocese in more than four decades. And in 2022, there were five new priests. George Matysek talks with Father Steven Roth about the increasing number of men stepping forward to discern a call to the priesthood and the impact that more priests is having on ministries throughout the archdiocese. Father Roth is vocations director and Associate Vicar for Clergy for the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

Sept. 8, 2024 | Back to School with Catholic education

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 12:00:14 -0400

Why should parents make the investment in Catholic education? Christ-centered values, excellent academic instruction and safe places to learn are some of the elements highlighted by Gregory Farno chancellor of education for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, and his counterpart on the academic side, Superintendent Dr. Donna Hargens. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty caught up with the duo just before schools went back into session for the 2024-25 school year.

Sept. 1, 2024 | Labor day and the Catholic Connection

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 12:00:08 -0400

Did you know that Catholics were influential in starting the first parades to commemorate laborers, back in the 1880s? Or that we celebrate a secular Labor Day in September and a Catholic Labor Day May 1 on the feast of St. Joseph the Worker? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Bill Droell, author, teacher and longtime editor for the National Center for the Laity about the origins of Labor Day, what popes have said about those who work and about just wages for families, as we prepare to mark Labor Day Sept. 3.

Aug. 25, 2024 | The Spiritual Power of the St. Benedict Cross and Medal

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 12:00:01 -0400

The cross and medal of St. Benedict is considered one of the most powerful sacramentals of the Catholic Church. But where did this spiritual object come from, and how did it derive its power? George Matysek talks about it with Benedictine Father Robert Nixon, a monk with the Abbey of the Most Holy Trinity in Western Australia. Father Nixon is the author of a new book by Tan Books called “The Cross and Medal of St. Benedict, a Mystical Sign of Divine Power.” The book is made up of text from authors including St. Gregory the Great and St. Bernard of Clairvaux. Father Nixon painstakingly translated the works from the original Latin.

Aug. 18, 2024 | Baltimore sportscaster reflects on his career and Catholic faith

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 12:00:07 -0400

Mark Viviano has covered everything from the Orioles and Ravens to high school sports - breaking the story of the move of the Cleveland Browns to Baltimore in the 1990s. Recently, the five-time winner of Maryland Sportscaster of the Year made the decision to step away from the camera to focus on family, community service and his Catholic faith. He officially retired as sports director of WJZ last month after 22 years at the station. The parishioner of St. John the Evangelist in Severna Park, who has served as a Catholic Review columnist and blogger since October, spoke with George Matysek about his career and his decision to leave it behind.

Aug. 11, 2024 | Following the non-violent Jesus

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Father John Dear has dedicated his life to promoting peace and nonviolence. The internationally known author, activist and teacher of peace and nonviolence has been nominated twice for the Nobel Peace Prize and has worked with St. Teresa of Kolkata, Daniel and Philip Berrigan, Coretta Scott King and many others. A former Jesuit who now serves as a priest of the Diocese of Monterrey, Calif., Father Dear founded the online project, “The Beatitudes Center for the Nonviolent Jesus.” Father Dear is the author of more than 30 books, including “The Gospel of Peace: A Commentary on Matthew, Mark and Luke from the Perspective of Nonviolence.” He talks with George Matysek about his life’s work and ways we can live nonviolence in our everyday lives.

Aug. 4, 2024 | Global Catholic Communications

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 12:00:00 -0400

Why is communication so important to the church? The Catholic Church dedicates a lot of resources to ensuring that the enduring message of the Gospels is available. Popes and other leaders have said that the church must use all means of communication possible to spread the Word of Jesus. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with two stalwarts of Catholic communications to discuss the challenges of communicating today. The first segment features Helen Osman, president of Signis, the "World Catholic Association for Communication,” a nongovernmental organization bringing together radio, television, cinema, video, media education, Internet, and new technology professionals. that includes members from all over the world. In the second segment, we are joined by Cindy Wooden, bureau chief for Catholic News Service, who talks about covering the popes and the Vatican.

July 28, 2024 | Evangelization and Seek the City to Come

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:26:21 -0400

In May, Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori announced the final plan for Seek the City to Come, a parish planning initiative designed to strengthen the Catholic Church’s presence in Baltimore City and some neighboring communities in Baltimore County. Under the plan, the number of parishes in those regions will be reduced from 61 to 23, and the number of worship sites will be reduced from 59 to 30. Seek the City is now in its implementation stage as many parishes begin the process of coming together to form new faith communities in the coming months. Auxiliary Bishop Bruce A. Lewandowski, C.Ss.R., who has spearheaded the Seek the City initiative over the last two years, has emphasized that every parish is being asked to evangelize the neighborhoods surrounding their communities. Joining George Matysek Jr. to talk about how that will take place and how the Archdiocese of Baltimore will be supporting parishes in a new approach to evangelization is Julie St. Croix. St. Croix was recently appointed the new director of Seek the City, taking over the position from her predecessor, Geri Byrd. St. Croix is the director of the Office of Parish Renewal for the Archdiocese of Baltimore. She is a former pastoral associate for Bishop Denis J. Madden in the urban vicariate and a former coordinator of pastoral leadership formation. She also has six years experience as director of religious education at St. John the Evangelist in Frederick.

July 21, 2024 | “Jesus Thirsts” with Jim Wahlberg

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 19:40:16 -0400

What is the miracle that we receive in the Eucharist - the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of our Lord? A new documentary, “Jesus Thirsts: The Miracle of the Eucharist,” looks at the practice of the Catholic faith around the world and devotion to the Real Presence. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty caught up with Jim Wahlberg, one of the producers of the movie, after a screening at the Catholic Media Conference in Atlanta, just as the production team got news that the film has the largest audience of any documentary this year. Wahlberg talks about his struggles growing up in a large “culturally Catholic” family in Boston, and how he found the love of Jesus for himself while in prison, and turned his life and his family toward God.

July 14, 2024 | “Grand Slam for God” – baseball player to priest

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 12:00:09 -0400

It’s baseball season and time for the MLB All Star Break. An Illinois priest was on his way to Major League Baseball when his life took a detour, and he’s now a priest – and the chaplain for the Chicago Cubs. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Father Burke Masters of the Diocese of Joliet about his book, “Grand Slam for God.” Father Masters talks about his conversion to Catholicism in high school, and his journey through the College World Series and pro baseball along the way to discerning the call to the priesthood. Learn about his struggles and joys.

June 30, 2024 | Survey on Catholic belief in the Real Presence

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

What does the Church teach about the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist? Research over the last several years has shown that a majority of Catholics don’t believe that the Eucharist is the true Body and Blood of Jesus. One researcher wanted to find out if wording the question more accurately could affect the response. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Hans Plate, founder and president of Vinea Research, about the new study the firm released showing that about 60 percent of Massgoers believe in the Real Presence.

June 23, 2024 | Safe Streets program counters violence in Baltimore City

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 12:00:08 -0400

For nearly 20 years, a public health program known as “Safe Streets” has been working to reduce violence and deaths by gunfire in Baltimore City. Focusing on training community members in conflict mediation, Safe Streets operates in some of the most troubled area of the city. Catholic Charities of Baltimore runs four of the city’s 10 Safe Streets sites, overseeing Safe Streets offices in Penn-North, Brooklyn, Sandtown-Winchester and Cherry Hill. According to Catholic Charities, its Cherry Hill location has twice gone more than year without a death by gunfire. And the area served by the program’s Penn-North location has marked more than 500 days without a death by gunfire. George Matysek looks at Safe Streets with Kevin Keegan, who leads Catholic Charities’ Family Services Division, under which Safe Streets is housed. Also joining the interview is Greg Marshburn, director of Catholic Charities’ four Safe Streets sites.

June 16, 2024 | Seek the City Implementation

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 12:04:58 -0400

The Archdiocese of Baltimore will reduce the number of parishes in the City of Baltimore from 61 to 23, and the number of worship sites from 59 to 30. The move reflects the change of demographics in the city over several decades and aims to have vibrant, viable parishes focused on evangelizing their neighborhoods. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Bishop Bruce A. Lewandowski, C.Ss.R., vicar for Baltimore City, about how the plan will be implemented and about its impact on Black and Hispanic communities.

June 9, 2024 | National Eucharistic Pilgrimage

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 12:00:18 -0400

Four groups of pilgrims departed May 18 from the corners of the United States to process with the Eucharist en route to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. The eastern route, named for Maryland’s own St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, passed through Maryland June 5th through 7th. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with two of the permanent pilgrims on the Seton Route, Zoe Dongas and Amayrani Higueldo, to talk about their inspiration to make the 65-day pilgrimage and their experiences along the way.

Bishop Bruce Lewandowski's Homily - June 7, 2024: Baltimore Basilica

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 08:00:00 -0400

Baltimore Auxiliary Bishop Bruce A. Lewandowski, C.Ss.R. delivered this homily June 7, 2024, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore as part of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage.

June 2, 2024 | Resurrecting spiritual classics

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 02:23:18 -0400

Throughout the centuries, Catholic saints have written countless spiritual classics that have touched hearts and changed lives. But, until now, many of these worked have been inaccessible to modern audiences because they haven’t been translated from Latin. Tan Books has launched a new initiative called TAN Resurrection that is bringing back to life these great works. Father Robert Nixon, a Benedictine monk with the Abbey of the Most Holy Trinity in Western Australia has been painstakingly translating these long-forgotten spiritual classics. In this encore episode, we talk with Father Nixon about how he goes about translating these spiritual classics and we take a closer look at one of his recently completed translations, a book by Thomas A Kempis called “Meditations on Death: Preparing for Eternity.”

May 26, 2024 | The amazing life of Sister Mary Wilhelmina

Mon, 27 May 2024 12:00:03 -0400

When the Benedictine Sisters of Mary, Queen of Apostles, were preparing to reinter the remains of Sister Mary Wilhelmina Lancaster, their foundress, in rural Missouri, they made an amazing discovery. When the sisters exhumed Sister Wilhelmina’s remains this spring four years after her death, the body didn’t seem at all decayed and her religious habit was also still intact. The news of what many consider to be a miracle made headlines around the world. Sister Wilhelmina was a Black Catholic Sister who spent more than 50 years as a member of the Baltimore-based Oblate Sisters of Providence. She left that religious community to found the Benedictine Sister of Mary, Queen of Apostles. Sister Wilhelmina’s Benedictine religious community wrote a book on the life of their foundress released by Tan Books. Joining us to talk about the amazing life of Sister Wilhelmina is one of the contributors to that book, Benedictine Sister Mary Josefa Holcomb. This is an encore episode of Catholic Review Radio.

May 19, 2024 | Mass on the MV Dali

Mon, 20 May 2024 12:00:42 -0400

Baltimore Auxiliary Bishop Adam J. Parker and Andrew Middleton, director of the archdiocesan Apostleship of the Sea, visited the stranded ship MV Dali May 1 at the site of the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, to bring care packages and visit the crew. Bishop Parker celebrated Mass for some of the Catholic members of the crew, who are all from India. The crew has remained on the ship since it struck a main support of the bridge in the early morning hours of March 26. The bridge collapsed within seconds, causing eight road workers on the span to fall into the river. Two survived, and the body of the last of the six who died was recovered May 7. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Bishop Parker about the experience of getting onto the ship and the importance of praying for the crew, their families and those who died in the accident.

May 12, 2024 | Documentary: “Teilhard: Visionary Scientist”

Mon, 13 May 2024 12:00:47 -0400

You may have heard of Peking Man, a breakthrough “missing link” in paleontology and the study of human evolution, but did you know that a Catholic priest was integral to that discovery in 1929 in China? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Frank and Mary Frost, producers of “Teilhard: Visionary Scientist,” a documentary about Jesuit scientist Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, who was part of the crew that discovered Peking Man and whose explorations in science and spirituality continue to inspire today. The new documentary premieres on Maryland Public Television May 19.

May 5, 2024 | Books and Authors: “My Life with the Jedi” and “The Coin Flip”

Mon, 06 May 2024 12:00:07 -0400

It’s another Books and Authors day on Catholic Review Radio. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Eric Clayton about his book, “My Life with the Jedi… The Spirituality of Star Wars,” and discusses how the religious elements of good, evil and redemption play into the epic saga. Managing Editor George Matysek Jr. chats with Elizabeth “Libby” Smith about her book, “The Coin Flip,” a historical novel based on a real-life event.

Apr. 28, 2024 | Wells of Life

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 12:00:08 -0400

Millions of people in the world lack even the most basic necessity of life: clean, safe drinking water. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Nick Jordan, Founder and CEO of Wells of Life, a ministry that has built or restored more than 1,000 wells in Uganda. Jordan talks about how the work is based on biblical principles and brings water to people in Jesus’ name.

Apr. 21, 2024 | Who really was St. George?

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 12:00:05 -0400

The dragon-slaying tale of St. George is most likely mythological. The saint is not. But who was this elusive figure? With the Feast of St. George coming up April 23, George Matysek talks with Hanael Bianchi, a professor of history at Howard Community College, who holds a doctorate in British history from The Catholic University of America. Bianchi is the author of “St. George's Day: A Cultural History of England's National Holiday.” He is a parishioner of St. John in Westminster, and also blogs for the Catholic Review.

Apr. 14, 2024 | Matt Maher’s music and the National Eucharistic Congress

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 12:00:04 -0400

Matt Maher has been singing and ministering to people around the world for more than 20 years. He remains focused on his Catholic faith and the graces in his life, including as a husband and father. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked Matt in Frederick Maryland about how faith shapes his music, and about the Eucharist as he prepares to lead the music for one of the revival sessions at the National Eucharistic Congress this summer in Indianapolis.

Apr. 7, 2024 | The Love that is God

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 12:00:09 -0400

At the end of last year, a new book by Deacon Frederick “Fritz” Bauerschmidt was named the winner of the Michael Ramsey Prize, one of the world’s most prestigious awards for theological writing. Presented by the Archbishop of Canterbury at a ceremony held in December at Lambeth Palace Library in London, the award recognized Deacon Bauerschmidt for his book, “The Love that is God: An Invitation to Christian Faith.” Deacon Bauerschmidt, who goes by “Deacon Fritz,” is a professor of theology at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore and a deacon at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland. He speaks with Catholic Review Managing Editor George Matysek about how God is love and what that means for Christian life.

Mar. 31, 2024 | Easter

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 12:00:11 -0400

The Easter season is full of great feasts such as Divine Mercy Sunday and Pentecost, and rich Scripture readings, including the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Father Justin Gough, associate pastor of the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, about how the season can help Catholics renew and deepen their faith in the risen Lord.

Mar. 24, 2024 | Serra Club is growing as it supports religious vocations

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 11:39:25 -0400

The Serra Club has been promoting religious vocations in the United States and around the world for decades. Today, the local branch of the Serra Club in the Archdiocese of Baltimore is growing and working to support vocations to the priesthood and religious life – while also encouraging men and women of all walks of life to answer the universal call to holiness. Joining us to talk about the work of the Serra Club are Reesie O’Donnell, a parishioner of St. Mark in Catonsville and vice president of membership for the local Serra Club; and Paul Bell, a parishioner of Our Lady of the Fields in Millersville and president of the local Serra Club.

Mar. 17, 2024 | USCCB’s Love Means More

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 12:00:19 -0400

What is love? We all use the term in a lot of different ways. “I love pizza.” “I love listening to jazz music.” “I love my kids.” “I love my wife.” But do we mean the same thing when we use the same word? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Andrew Buonapane – an assistant director for Marriage and Family Life in the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth – about a new initiative from the USCCB called “Love Means More,” an interactive website that discusses tough questions about love and sexuality. Buonapane said the site groups topics together for ease of use and understanding.

Mar. 10, 2024 | The Oscars (Bonus Extended Episode)

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 16:00:13 -0400

The Oscars will be broadcast March 10. As Hollywood folks deck out in their finest outfits and prepare their acceptance speeches, we wanted to get the viewpoints of two catholic film critics on trends at the movies and their takes on the nominees. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty and guest co-host Ann Augherton of the Arlington Catholic Herald talked with John Mulderig of OSV News and Daughter of St. Paul Sister Rose Pacatte about the best films of the year. And visit CatholicReview.org/cr-radio for a longer bonus episode with more of the conversation.

Mar. 10, 2024 | The Oscars

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 16:00:03 -0400

Mar. 3, 2024 | Pro-life update in the Archdiocese of Baltimore

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 20:59:03 -0400

In advance of the March 11 Maryland March for Life in Annapolis, the Catholic Review talks with Erin Younkins about the many ways Catholics in the Archdiocese of Baltimore are supporting a culture of life. Younkins shares the latest news on efforts to legalize physician-assisted suicide in Maryland and the upcoming vote on a constitutional amendment enshrining the right to an abortion through nine months of pregnancy in Maryland. She also provides information on how Catholics can participate in the Maryland March for Life. Younkins is the director of the Office of Life, Justice and Peace in the archdiocesan Institute for Evangelization.

Feb. 25, 2024 | Movie: “Cabrini”

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 13:00:02 -0400

Based on the life and work of the first American citizen to become a saint, “Cabrini” takes viewers into the world of turn-of-the-century New York as Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini takes on the work of ministering to poor immigrants, especially from her homeland of Italy. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Leo Severino, one of the producers of the movie, about what inspired the film and how it addresses the dignity of every person. “Cabrini” opens worldwide in theaters on International Women’s Day, March 8.

Feb. 18, 2024 | A pastoral journey to El Salvador

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 13:00:01 -0400

To better understand the social, spiritual and cultural realities of the people of El Salvador and to better serve people of Salvadoran descent in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Lia Garcia and Father Austin Murphy were part of a recent pastoral visit to the Central American nation Jan. 25-30. Garcia is the director of Hispanic ministry for the Archdiocese of Baltimore and Father Murphy is pastor of Christ the King parish in Glen Burnie, a faith community with a fast-growing Hispanic population. They share insights learned on their pastoral visit to El Salvador.

Feb. 11, 2024 | Catholic Charities USA

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 13:00:51 -0400

Catholic Charities USA supports a network of more than 160 agencies across the country that provide food, job training, housing and other assistance to those in need. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Kerry Robinson, president and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, about how Catholic agencies fill the gaps in social services all around the country, all while looking at the people they serve in the image of God.

Feb. 4, 2024 | The inspiring and heroic Life of Blessed Jerzy Popiełuszko

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 13:00:01 -0400

Blessed Jerzy Popiełuszko was one of the most remarkable and heroic figures of the 20th Century. A humble priest and prophet of nonviolence, Blessed Jerzy inspired his fellow Poles to stand up for truth and resist Communist oppression in Cold War-era Poland. Judith Kelly, author of “Just Call me Jerzy,” joins us in this encore episode of Catholic Review Radio to discuss the life and legacy of this modern martyr.

Jan. 28, 2024 | Catholic Schools Week and new Chancellor of Education

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 13:00:16 -0400

Catholic schools provide a Christ-centered education, at a value compared to other private school options. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with new Archdiocese of Baltimore Chancellor of Education Greg Farno about his plans to focus on strategic planning, financial resources, developing leaders and recruiting faculty and students in Catholic schools in Maryland. Farno doesn’t minimize the cost of tuition or the sacrifices families make to send students to Catholic schools, but believes it’s the best investment in a child’s education.

Jan. 21, 2024 | C.S. Lewis and the Chronicles of Narnia

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 13:00:05 -0400

“The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis is one of the most beloved children’s series of all time. In this encore episode of Catholic Review Radio, we talk about the significance of Lewis’ imaginative world and the spiritual benefit Lewis’ stories have on children and adults alike. Our guest is Leonard DeLorenzo, editor of “Chronicles of Transformation: A Spiritual Journey with C.S. Lewis.” DeLorenzo is a professor of theology and director of undergraduate studies at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.

Jan. 14, 2024 | Xavier Society for the Blind

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 13:00:05 -0400

January is Braille Literacy Month, and that’s a good time to highlight the work of the Xavier Society for the Blind, which provides catechetical resources and other Catholic reading material to those who are blind or have low-vision concerns. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked Malachy Fallon, executive director of the Xavier Society for the Blind, about the Mass propers and other books and resources the society provides – all free of charge – to its patrons. The conversation also includes a woman from the Archdiocese of Baltimore who has been using the Xavier Society’s offerings for more than 50 years.

Jan. 7, 2024 | Catholic Relief Services and Global Emergencies

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 13:10:01 -0400

Humanitarian crises all over the world have a profound impact on millions of people every day, but only some of the affected regions make it into the news and public consciousness. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Caroline Brennan, emergency communications director for Catholic Relief Services about the urgent crisis in the Holy Land, especially Gaza, as well as other regions affected by drought, famine and conflict that we don’t hear much about on the daily news.

Dec. 31, 2023 | Year End Review with Archbishop Lori

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 13:07:43 -0400

It has been a year of ups and downs for the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Archbishop William E. Lori about vocations, the Eucharistic Revival Project, the archdiocese’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization, the environment and more for our year-end review, and a look ahead to 2024.

Dec. 24, 2023 | Christmas Eve: The Incarnation and the Meaning of Christmas

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 13:00:00 -0400

What is the meaning of the Incarnation and the significance of Christians? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Father Tyler Kline about how we take the message of Christmas and apply it to our lives every day, not just during the Christmas season.

Dec. 17, 2023 | Heroic Story of the Ulma Family

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 13:00:07 -0400

A Ray of Light in Darkness – the Heroic Story of the Ulma Family on Exhibit at the St. John Paul II Shrine During World War II, Hitler made it forbidden and punishable by death for anyone who harbored those of Jewish descent. In southeastern Poland, a Catholic family – Josef, Wiktoria and their seven children of the Ulma family – were executed for hiding two Jewish families in their attic. Pope Francis beatified the whole family, including an unborn child, Sept. 10, 2023. Beginning in mid-January, the St. John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, D.C., will have an inspiring display of the Ulma family’s story along with an opportunity to venerate the relics of St. John Paul II and relics of all nine members of the family for all those who make a pilgrimage to the shrine. Catholic Review Radio host, Father Brian Nolan, pastor of St. Ignatius in Ijamsville, Md., talks with Sofia Maurette, the director of Intercultural Ministry for the St. John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, who worked intimately with the creation of the exhibit of the newly beatified Ulma family soon to be on display at this shrine.

Dec. 17, 2023 | Heroic Story of the Ulma Family

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 13:00:07 -0400

During World War II, Hitler made it forbidden and punishable by death for anyone who harbored those of Jewish descent. In southeastern Poland, a Catholic family – Josef, Wiktoria and their seven children of the Ulma family – were executed for hiding two Jewish families in their attic. Pope Francis beatified the whole family, including an unborn child, Sept. 10, 2023. Beginning in mid-January, the St. John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, D.C., will have an inspiring display of the Ulma family’s story along with an opportunity to venerate the relics of St. John Paul II and relics of all nine members of the family for all those who make a pilgrimage to the shrine. Catholic Review Radio host, Father Brian Nolan, pastor of St. Ignatius in Ijamsville, Md., talks with Sofia Maurette, the director of Intercultural Ministry for the St. John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, who worked intimately with the creation of the exhibit of the newly beatified Ulma family soon to be on display at this shrine.

Dec. 10, 2023 | Book: “Rebuilt Faith”

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 13:00:07 -0400

The Rebuilt Parish phenomenon or movement began about 10 years ago with the publication of “Rebuilt” by Father Michael White and Tom Corcoran of Church of the Nativity in Timonium, Md. Since then, Rebuilt Parish has expanded to workbooks, podcasts and more, engaging with hundreds of parishes across the nation. Now, the pair has published a new book directed at the faithful, “Rebuilt Faith: A Handbook for Skeptical Catholics,” which outlines a 40-day plan to help Catholics reconnect to what matters. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with father White about the steps they encourage people to take to grow in faith.

Dec. 3, 2023 | Hound of the Lord

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 13:00:07 -0400

Eleanor Bourg Nicholson’s new children’s book, “The Hound of the Lord,” creatively retells the inspiring story of St. Dominic from the perspective of the saint’s ever-watchful canine companion, “Torch.” Nicholson joins George Matysek to talk about her book, the ministry of St. Dominic and how Catholics today might imitate the founder of the Dominican order’s approach to evangelization. Nicholson is the author of several books and serves as Victorian literature instructor at Homeschool Connections.

Nov. 26, 2023 | Hope for the holidays

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 13:00:26 -0400

With the holidays upon us and all the many expectations that come with them, many people can feel overwhelmed at this time of the year. Paul Jarzembowski offers inspiration and some practical advice for celebrating the holidays in a meaningful, hope-filled way. Jarzembowski, a parishioner of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Crofton, is the author of a newly released book from Paulist Press, “Hope for the Holidays: Finding Light at the Darkest Time of the Year.” He is Associate Director for Laity with the U .S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Nov. 19, 2023 | Becoming thankful and grateful people

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 13:00:03 -0400

Lara Schumacher and Father Collin Poston share their insights and stories of growing in gratitude in light of the month of November and the celebration of Thanksgiving. Schumacher is director of faith formation, evangelization of youth and the family at St. Ignatius of Loyola in Ijamsville. Father Poston is pastor of St. Bartholomew in Manchester.

Nov. 12, 2023 | A conversation with a Black Catholic artist

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 13:00:06 -0400

Wayman Scott IV, a parishioner of Church of the Nativity in Timonium, is an up-and-coming Black Catholic artist based at Baltimore Clayworks whose works are gaining national and international attention. A former youth minister at St. John in Columbia who also served as a chaplain and grief counselor at Gilchrest Hospice, Scott infuses both his Catholic faith and his African-American heritage into his work. He currently serves as associate director of diversity, equity and inclusion at Gilchrist and GBMC Health Partners. He talks with George Matysek Jr. about his development as a Black Catholic artist.

Nov. 5, 2023 | Movie: “Journey to Bethlehem”

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 13:00:14 -0400

Advent has not yet begun, but we are seeing Christmas decorations and television commercials all over the place already. How can we take a moment to think about the meaning of the Nativity of Jesus Christ – the Greatest Story Ever Told. A new movie musical, “Journey to Bethlehem,” may be just what we need. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Adam Anders, writer, director and composer, about the new film, which opens in theaters Nov. 10. Anders talks about the experience of making the movie and sharing his vision – 17 years in the making – with cast, crew and audiences.

Oct. 29, 2023 | Catholic Near East Welfare Association and the Israel-Hamas war

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:00:12 -0400

Long before war broke out in early October in Israel and Gaza, the Catholic Near East Welfare Association has been serving the needs of people in the region. Founded in 1926 by Pope Pius XI, CNEWA serves in the historic but unstable lands of the ancient Eastern churches. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Michael La Civita, director of communications for CNEWA, and his colleague Joseph Hazboun, regional director of CNEWA’s Jerusalem office about the impact of the war on those who live in Israel and Gaza and how CNEWA is helping meet the needs on the ground.

Oct. 22, 2023 | Movie “Shelter in Solitude”

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 12:00:42 -0400

What would happen if a wannabe country singer has to shut down the bar she owns during the COVID pandemic, and she takes a job as a guard in a prison, watching over a death-row inmate who has 10 days until his execution? That’s the premise of the new movie, “Shelter in Solitude, written by and starring Siobhan Fallon Hogan. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with the actress and writer, a Catholic who has woven images from her faith into the film, about the need for hope in times of crisis. The movie has been showing in theaters and will be available on streaming services in December.

Oct. 15, 2023 | Inspiring Heroes of Mount St. Mary’s

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0400

John Singleton shares stores of inspiring heroes from Mount St. Mary’s in Emmitsburg who have shaped Catholicism and the United States. Stories include those who persevered through difficult times and world events, a missionary who was imprisoned for his faith in China, a missionary who was martyred in service to the poor in Guatemala and one whose love for the Blessed Mother continues to inspire many to make pilgrimages from near and far. Singleton is an entrepreneur, an alum of Mount St. Mary’s University and author of The Meaning of Mount St. Mary’s

Oct. 8, 2023 | Archdiocese of Baltimore and Chapter 11

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:00:08 -0400

The Archdiocese of Baltimore filed for federal Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization Sept. 29, in the face of many potential lawsuits as a result of a new Maryland law that repealed the statute of limitations for civil claims of abuse. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked one-on-one with Archbishop William E. Lori about the impact of the archdiocese’s Chapter 11 reorganization and his goal to equitably compensate all victim-survivors, while continuing the mission of the church, parishes and ministries.

Oct. 1, 2023 | The amazing life of Sister Mary Wilhelmina

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 12:00:06 -0400

Sept. 24, 2023 | Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 12:00:23 -0400

The rosary may seem like a simple prayer, but it has centuries of history behind it. Some Dominicans, whose order has a special devotion to the Mother of God, are organizing the Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage to be held Sept. 30 at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Dominican Father Patrick Briscoe, one of the organizers, about the scriptural basis and history of the rosary. Father Briscoe also shares details on what those who participate in the pilgrimage – in person or via livestream – can expect.

Sept. 17, 2023 | Knowing and Loving the Angels

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 12:00:03 -0400

Father Brian Nolan talks with Father Nicholas Federspiel about the importance of growing in one’s knowledge and love for the angels, both in salvation history and our own lives. Father Federspiel is a priest of the Diocese of Rockford, Ill., who serves as chaplain to the Poor Clares in the Diocese of Rockford.

Sept. 10, 2023 | Vocations to the priesthood on the upswing

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 11:50:09 -0400

This June, Archbishop William E. Lori ordained eight men to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Baltimore at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen. That number represents the biggest class of new priests in the Baltimore archdiocese in more than four decades. The archdiocese is also seeing increasing numbers of men applying to become priests. Joining us to talk about vocations to the priesthood is Father Steven Roth, vocations director for the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

Sept. 3, 2023 | AOB Schools superintendent shares highlights of new academic year

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 15:20:39 -0400

Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore welcomed students for the new academic year Aug. 28. This year, Catholic schools are projecting an overall 1 percent increase in enrollment. George Matysek talks with Dr. Donna Hargens, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, about enrollment trends, affordability of Catholic schools, Catholic identity, special programs, a state-funded scholarship program for children from low-income families and much more.

Aug. 27, 2023 | “The Mother Teresa of Honduras” – Sister Maria Rose Leggol

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Have you heard about the life and ministry of Sister Maria Rosa Leggol, sometimes called “the Mother Teresa of Honduras”? Over more than 70 years of service to the impoverished and orphaned in her country, she helped more than 87,000 children and their families. Sister Maria Rosa is the subject of a documentary, “With This Light,” now available on many streaming platforms. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty chatted with Jessica Sarowitz, executive producer of the film, and Nicole Bernaardi-Reis, director of the movie, about this dynamic nun and her legacy.

Aug. 20, 2023 | Podcast about Black Catholics - Ark and Dove

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 12:07:31 -0400

Ark and Dove is a five-episode narrative podcast, produced in Baltimore, investigating the complex dynamics of race and religion in America through the lens of the Black Catholic Church. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Edward Herrera, executive director of the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s Institute for Evangelization and one of the producers and hosts of the podcast, to learn about the idea behind the series and how the hosts were able to get Black Catholics to share their experiences.

Aug. 13, 2023 | World Youth Day changed my life – over the long haul

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0400

World Youth Day 2024 has wrapped up and many young people had memorable experiences, but is it just a short-term spiritual high? Greg and Susan Rohr and Father Collin Poston share the longer term fruits of their powerful experience at World Youth Day in Denver in 1993. Father Poston, now pastor of St. Bartholomew in Manchester, traveled there when he was a Methodist and came back with a deep desire to become Catholic. Listen to this memorable and enjoyable story of how the fruits of their experience continue to overflow to this day.

Greg and Susan Rohr have been married for 36 years and are members of St. Mary in Hagerstown. They have 9 children and 14 grandchildren. They are co-founders of CHERISH (Catholic Hearts Espoused Rejoice In Sacramental Hope) married couples ministry. See cherishcouples.net for more information.

Aug. 6, 2023 | An update on the Seek the City pastoral planning initiative for Baltimore

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 14:35:50 -0400

Seek the City to Come is a two-year pastoral planning effort launched last year concerning the future of all 57 parishes in Baltimore City and several in Baltimore County. The initiative is focused on strengthening church’s ministries and presence in the city at a time when the number of Catholics in city parishes has fallen dramatically. Hundreds of people gathered in the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen June 27 for a special prayerful celebration of the close of Seek The City’s listening phase. It also marked the launch of the vision phase of Seek the City. George Matysek interviews Bishop Bruce Lewandowski, C.Ss.R, urban vicar for the Archdiocese of Baltimore; and Geri Byrd, director of Seek the City.

July 30, 2023 | New religious community serves Baltimore’s forgotten people of the streets

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 12:00:06 -0400

July 30, 2023 | New religious community serves Baltimore’s forgotten people of the streets by Catholic Review Media

July 23, 2023 | A Relational Guide to Growing in your Prayer Life

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 12:00:04 -0400

Father Boniface Hicks is a Benedictine monk of St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe, Pa. A seasoned spiritual director, he has led numerous retreats and is the director of spiritual formation for St. Vincent’s Seminary. Along with Benedictine Father Thomas Acklin, he has co-authored books entitled, “Through the Heart of St. Joseph,” “Spiritual Direction: A Guide for Sharing the Father’s Love” and “Personal Prayer: A Guide for Receiving the Father’s Love,” all published by Emmaus Road Publishing. On this episode of Catholic Review Radio, Father Hicks speaks about prayer as growing in a relationship. He also discusses the need for vulnerability, silence, imperfect prayer times with God and practical ways of growing in your spiritual life.

July 16, 2023 | Cardiac doctor examines faith and evidence-based medicine

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Is there a role for Jesus in modern evidence-based medicine? Catholic Review Managing Editor George Matysek talks about it with Dr. Luigi Adamo, director for Cardiac Immunology in the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine’s Division of Cardiology in Baltimore.

Born and raised in Southern Italy, the parishioner of the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Baltimore completed his medical degree at the University of Palermo. He also holds a PhD in Biology and Biomedical Sciences at Harvard Medical School. He completed post-graduate training in internal medicine, cardiac disease and advanced heart failure/cardiac transplant at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. He has also completed post-doctoral training in cardiac immunology.

July 9, 2023 | Parents of a seminarian share their journey

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 12:00:05 -0400

John and Tracy Sullivan are the parents of Russ Sullivan, a seminarian of the Archdiocese of Baltimore preparing for the priesthood at St. Mary’s Seminary in Roland Park. The Sullivans, parishioners of St. John the Evangelist in Severna Park, share their experience of having a son in the seminary and offer some advice to other parents whose children are interested in the priesthood or religious life.

July 2, 2023 | Digital Literacy and Media Mindfulness

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:00:01 -0400

How can we understand new media technology in the context of faith? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Daughter of St. Paul Sister Rose Pacatte about digital literacy and what she calles “media mindfulness” – consuming media in a thoughtful way that looks at not only what you read and see, but who creates it and who benefits from it. She also talks about her “interview” with ChatGPT, an artificial-intelligence language module that can even tell jokes – even if they are bad ones.

June 25, 2023 | The Catholic Media

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:00:01 -0400

What’s the state of Catholic media these days? As the Catholic Media Association met in Baltimore June 6-9, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Rob DeFrancesco, executive director of the association, and Gretchen Crowe, the new president of the CMA, to discuss today’s challenges and learn how Catholic media outlets are thriving as they include once-common diocesan newspapers as well as magazines, websites, social media, and audio and visual media.

June 18, 2023 | Remembering Bishop Victor Galeone

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 15:42:32 -0400

Bishop Victor Galeone was a much-loved priest of the Archdiocese of Baltimore who was served as pastor of St. Bernard in Baltimore, St. Thomas More in Baltimore and St. Agnes in Catonsville before being named bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine, Fla. He died at age 87 on May 29. On this episode of Catholic Review Radio, Monsignor James Farmer, a close friend of Bishop Galeone who gave the homily at his funeral, remembers the life and legacy of Bishop Galeone. Monsignor Farmer is the administrator of Immaculate Conception in Towson.

June 4, 2023 | The Vatican Code

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 12:00:04 -0400

Ken Hackett led Catholic Relief Services in Baltimore for decades, but his retirement was short-lived, as he was tapped to become U.S. ambassador to the Holy See. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Hackett about his experiences at the Vatican, building relationships and helping prepare for a visit of President Barack Obama to the Vatican – and the significance of the gift he brought – as well as a visit of Pope Francis to the United States. Ambassador Hackett will speak about the book at the Enoch Pratt Free Library Central Branch in Baltimore June 21.

May 28, 2023 | The Prosperity Gospel

Mon, 29 May 2023 12:00:08 -0400

Preachers of the so-called “Prosperity Gospel” have had great success winning followers – including Catholics. What is the Prosperity Gospel and how did it take hold in the United States? How does it conflict with Catholic beliefs? Thomas Storck, author of “The Prosperity Gospel: How Greed and Bad Philosophy Distorted Christ’s Teaching,” discusses it with George Matysek. Storck, a convert to the Catholic faith, has been writing on Catholic social teaching, Catholic culture and related topics since the early 1980s. He received his undergraduate education at Kenyon College in Ohio and has a master’s degree from St. John’s College in Santa Fe.

May 21, 2023 | How to grow in your openness to the Holy Spirit

Mon, 22 May 2023 12:00:08 -0400

Jesuit Father Peter Ryan shares his witness and the importance of being open to the Holy Spirit within your life. He speaks about St. Ignatius Loyola’s Rules for Discernment that are patterns of how God inspires us and how to recognize that it’s from the Lord. Father Ryan holds the Blessed Michael J. McGivney Chair in Life Ethics at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, where he teaches moral theology and gives spiritual direction. Father Ryan is also the chaplain of Courage Detroit. He previously served as executive director of the Secretariat of Doctrine and Canonical Affairs at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

May 14, 2023 | C.S. Lewis and the Chronicles of Narnia

Mon, 15 May 2023 12:00:00 -0400

“The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis is one of the most beloved children’s series of all time. Joining us to talk about the significance of Lewis’ imaginative world and the spiritual benefit Lewis’ stories have on children and adults alike is Leonard DeLorenzo, editor of “Chronicles of Transformation: A Spiritual Journey with C.S. Lewis.” DeLorenzo is a professor of theology and director of undergraduate studies at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.

May 7, 2023 | V8s for Vocations

Mon, 08 May 2023 12:00:10 -0400

What do you get when you combine classic cars with a need to raise funds for vocations in the Diocese of Gallup in New Mexico? You get V8s for Vocations, a program that has been running several years to raise money for seminarian education in one of the poorest dioceses in the country. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Father Matthew Keller, the car buff who founded the program, about the impetus for the program and this year’s raffle prize car, a 1957 Chevy.

Apr. 30, 2023 | Resurrecting spiritual classics

Mon, 01 May 2023 12:00:07 -0400

Throughout the centuries, Catholic saints have written countless spiritual classics that have touched hearts and changed lives. But, until now, many of these worked have been inaccessible to modern audiences because they haven’t been translated from Latin. Tan Books has launched a new initiative called TAN Resurrection that is bringing back to life these great works. Father Robert Nixon, a Benedictine monk with the Abbey of the Most Holy Trinity in Western Australia has been painstakingly translating these long-forgotten spiritual classics. We talk with Father Nixon about how he goes about translating these spiritual classics and we take a closer look at one of his recently completed translations, a book by Thomas A Kempis called “Meditations on Death: Preparing for Eternity.”

Apr. 23, 2023 | From Medical School to the Seminary

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 12:00:06 -0400

Archbishop William E. Lori will ordain six men transitional deacons during a 10 a.m. Mass May 20 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland. Becoming a transitional deacon is the final step before a man is ordained a priest. Joining us to talk about his vocational journey is Michael Misulia, a parishioner of St. Peter the Apostle in Libertytown, who left medical school to enter the seminary. Misulia is one of the men to be ordained a deacon this spring.

Apr. 16, 2023 | The promise of Divine Mercy

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 12:00:16 -0400

Father Chris Alar speaks of the “ABCs” of Divine Mercy and the five new channels of grace given to the world through the message of Divine Mercy. It includes the Divine Mercy Feast Day, the Image, the Novena, the Divine Mercy Chaplet (intercessory prayer), and the Hour of Mercy. Father Alar is provincial superior of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy Province of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception in the United States and Argentina.

Apr. 9, 2023 | Easter and Evangelization

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 12:00:36 -0400

As we celebrate Easter, it helps to understand why the early disciples had such an urgency about sharing the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection and how we can do the same. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Father Erik Arnold, pastor of St. John the Evangelist in Severna Park, about how his own faith was renewed and revived and how the message of Easter can radically reorient our lives toward Christ.

Apr. 02, 2023 | Movie: “On a Wing and a Prayer”

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 12:00:07 -0400

Based on a true story of faith and survival, the new movie, “On a Wing and a Prayer” follows passenger Doug White’s harrowing journey to safely land a plane and save his entire family from insurmountable danger, after their pilot dies unexpectedly mid-flight. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talked with Roma Downey, producer, and Doug White, the real-life inspiration for the film, about how faith is woven into this tragic – but uplifting – tale. The movie premieres on Amazon Prime Video April 7.

Mar. 26, 2023 | 52 Masses Quest Complete

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 12:00:28 -0400

Daniel Markham set out about two years ago on an ambitious quest to visit 52 different churches over the course of a little over a year – one in each state plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty caught up with Daniel now that the journey is complete and a book about the project has been published – “52 Masses: A Journey to Experience Catholicism Across America.” In this episode, Daniel talks about the days he spent in Baltimore and Millersville and the other highlights of his effort.

Mar. 19, 2022 | Dining with the Saints

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Award-winning TV chef and “cooking priest” Father Leo Patalinghug and theologian and mixologist Dr. Michael P. Foley talk about their new book, “Dining with the Saints: The Sinner’s Guide to a Righteous Feast.” The book brings the liturgical year to life, pairing more than 200 saints’ stories with a smorgasbord of international recipes.

Mar. 12, 2023 | Pope Francis Anniversary and the Jesuits in Maryland

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 12:00:28 -0400

As Pope Francis marks the 10th anniversary of his pontificate, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Jesuit Father Gregory Chisholm, provincial superior, about the Jesuit pope’s roots and legacy. Is he a pope with Jesuit roots and a Franciscan heart? He also discusses the work of Jesuits in the Mid-Atlantic regions, including some frank discussion of the order’s enslavement of people in the early days on this continent, and what is being done to atone for that sin.

Mar. 5, 2023 | Catholic Social Teaching and Public Life

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 13:00:08 -0400

How can Catholics bring Catholic social teaching and the values of our faith to the public square? Georgetown University’s Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life has been looking at that question intensively for the past 10 years with more than 145 dialogues, gatherings and convenings, attended by more than 250,000 people in person and online. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Kim Daniels, director of the Initiative about its 10th anniversary and how Catholics can help participate in a civil discussion with others – even if they disagree. Kim also reflects on the upcoming 10th anniversary of Pope Francis and how his papacy has shaped the conversations.

Cameron J.S. Kuzepski

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Cameron J.S. Kuzepski, principal organist at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland, discusses being an organist. He also plays a selection that will be featured in an upcoming concert. Read a feature profile on Kuzepski at https://catholicreview.org/young-organist-at-cathedral-of-mary-our-queen-is-remarkable-talent/

Gloria Purvis speaks at the 2023 Maryland March for Life

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Read the Catholic Review's full coverage of the Maryland March for Life at https://catholicreview.org/more-than-1000-stand-up-for-life-at-maryland-march-for-life/

Feb. 26, 2023 | Sacrament of Reconciliation

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 13:00:10 -0400

Lent is a penitential season, and a perfect time to discuss confession, penance and the sacrament of reconciliation. This year, the church is implementing a new Order of Penance, including new prayers for the Act of Contrition and the priest’s prayer of absolution. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Monsignor Richard Hilgartner about the changes in the prayers, and what draws people to the sacrament. In the second half of the show, Catholic Review Managing Editor George Matysek Jr. discusses Claudia Cangilla McAdam’s book for children that touches on the themes of reconciliation.

Feb. 19, 2023 | The inspiring and heroic life of Blessed Jerzy Popiełuszko

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 12:38:42 -0400

Blessed Jerzy Popiełuszko was one of the most remarkable and heroic figures of the 20th century. A humble priest and prophet of nonviolence, Blessed Jerzy inspired his fellow Poles to stand up for truth and resist Communist oppression in Cold War-era Poland. Judith Kelly, author of “Just Call Me Jerzy,” talks with George Matysek about the life and legacy of this modern martyr.

Feb. 12, 2023 | “He Gets Us” – Jesus TV campaign

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 13:00:35 -0400

Have you seen the TV commercials that show how Jesus is relevant to today’s challenges? The ads feature contemporary images and end with the tagline “He Gets Us.” The folks behind the campaign made the bold move to invest in airing two ads during the prime-time Super Bowl game Feb. 12. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Brad Hill, one of the people behind the campaign about what it means to introduce Jesus to people who may not know that the Lord stands with them in good and bad times.

What Is Evangelization? Paul's Three-Fold Conversion | Fr. Erik Arnold

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0400

What Is Evangelization? Paul's Three-Fold Conversion | Fr. Erik Arnold

Feb. 5, 2023 | Black Catholic Nuns

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 13:00:40 -0400

In “Subversive Habits: Black Catholic Nuns in the Long African American Freedom Struggle,” Dr. Shannen Dee Williams provides the first full history of Black Catholic nuns in the United States. In this encore episode, presented during Black History Month, we speak with Dr. Williams about what inspired her to write this history and what she learned in her extensive research, which included a look at the Baltimore-based Oblate Sisters of Providence.

Jan. 29, 2023 | Celebrating Catholic Schools Week

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 13:00:18 -0400

Since 1974, Catholic Schools Week has been celebrated every year throughout the United States. Joining us to talk about Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Baltimore is Dr. Donna Hargens, superintendent of Catholic schools for the archdiocese. Also joining us to talk about teaching opportunities in Catholic schools is Lauren Robinson, director of marketing for the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

Jan. 22, 2023 | Catholic Charities of Baltimore

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 13:00:18 -0400

It is nearly impossible to look at any place where people are struggling within Baltimore City and the nine counties that comprise the Archdiocese of Baltimore – the impact of poverty, violence, poor health care, lack of education, addiction – and not see the presence of the archdiocesan charities agency. It is the third-largest Catholic Charities agency in the country, despite Baltimore, with about 505,000 Catholics, not being among even the top 25 dioceses, based on the number of Catholics. Catholic Review Editor Chris Gunty talks with Bill McCarthy, executive director of Catholic Charities of Baltimore about the agency’s legacy of service as it marks its 100th anniversary in 2023.

Jan. 15, 2023 | Start fresh with your spiritual life in the new year

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 14:30:33 -0400

Sister Elena Morcelli shares practical ways for everyone to grow in their interior life for this new year, including listening and recognizing the Lord speaking to us. Sister Elena is a lay consecrated woman with the Apostles of the Interior Life. Based in Rome and also serving on the campus of Texas A&M, they are dedicated to the apostolate of evangelization and spiritual direction.

Jan. 8, 2023 | Remembering Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 14:00:01 -0400

Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori and Baltimore Auxiliary Bishop Adam J. Parker reflect on the life and legacy of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

Jan. 1, 2023 | The Holy Family

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 13:00:07 -0400

The Holy Family may seem like an impossible one to emulate – the parents are both saints and the child is God. But the Holy Family holds lessons for all of us about how to pray, how to trust in God and live in love. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with author Deacon Greg Kandra, writer of the popular Deacon’s Bench blog, about how Jesus, Mary and Joseph can inspire us, and how the sorrows of St. Joseph can teach us lessons for our own life.

Dec. 25, 2022 | Year in Review with Archbishop Lori

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 13:00:12 -0400

As 2022 comes to a close, Catholic Review Editor talks with Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori about a variety of topics, including the archbishop’s visit to Ukraine, the church’s project to look at the ministry and footprint of the church in Baltimore City and much more. Regarding the upcoming report from the Maryland attorney general about clergy sexual abuse, the archbishop reiterates his apology to those who have been harmed and says, “Our apology means something because we have really tried to eliminate, as far as is humanly possible, sexual abuse from our ranks.” Archbishop Lori also shares his Christmas prayer for the archdiocese and his blessing.

Dec. 18, 2022 | Surviving a Blue Christmas: How Faith Lifts Us Up During the Holidays

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 13:00:07 -0400

Father Jeffrey Dauses, pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary in Baynesville and St. Thomas More in Baltimore, shares pastoral wisdom for those going through difficult times this Christmas season, including family and relational issues, life uncertainties, times of transition and grieving the loss of a loved one.

Dec. 11, 2022 | Christmas music and the power of song in times of plague

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 08:00:00 -0400

It seems that the Christmas season just isn’t complete without Christmas carols and other holiday songs. What is it about this particular music that puts many people in a good mood and why does it have such staying power? Dr. Remi Chiu, a musicologist at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore and author of “Plague and Music in the Renaissance” talks with George Matysek in this encore episode about Christmas music and the historic power of music in times of plague and pandemic.

Dec. 4, 2022 | The Christmas Star

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 13:00:14 -0400

Perhaps the first story most people heard about astronomers was the Epiphany Gospel passage from St. Matthew telling the story of the magi who sought the Messiah via the source of the great star they saw in the sky. But what was the star? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty discusses the possibilities through faith and science with Deacon David Ludwikoski, director of the Benjamin Banneker Planetarium at the Community College of Baltimore County’s Catonsville Campus. Was it a host of angels? A conjunction of planets? Listen in Dec. 4 – and plan to see a planetarium show led by Deacon Ludwikoski at the planetarium Dec. 16.

Nov. 27, 2022 | Making the most of Advent

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 13:00:03 -0400

Father Mark Bialek joins us to talk about what Advent is all about and how we can make the best of this season of spiritual preparation. Father Bialek is pastor of St. John in Westminster and St. Joseph in Taneytown. We also feature a performance of a part of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” presented by the choir at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland.

Nov. 20, 2022 | The gift of gratitude

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 13:00:19 -0400

As we approach Thanksgiving, Dana Sauers discusses the gift and importance of gratitude and how to share it with others. Sauers is the director of the Institute of Leadership Ethics, Achievement at Mount St. Mary's University in Emmitsburg. She also was certified through the Holy Family School of Faith in Kansas City, Kansas, as a spiritual mentor and assists adults and students seeking a life of prayer.

Nov. 13, 2022 | Leadership by Accident

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 13:00:12 -0400

Leadership and management are not the same things. At any given point in your life, someone needs you to be a leader. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Jim Rafferty, a parishioner of St. Joseph Parish in Texas/Cockeysville, about the tragedy that led him to become a “Leader by Accident,” and how that experience and his faith shaped his life. Empathy and solicitude can be key components of becoming a good leader, says Rafferty, who wrote a book, “Leader by Accident: Lessons in Leadership, Loss and Life.”

Nov. 6, 2022 | Reaching people in the deaf community

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 13:00:15 -0400

According to Johns Hopkins researchers, there are more than 1.2 million Marylanders who are deaf or hard of hearing. What is the Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Baltimore doing to reach that community? George Matysek talks about it with Christopher Duck, coordinator of deaf ministry in the archdiocese’s Office of Life, Justice and Peace. Duck is also a parishioner of Church of the Resurrection in Ellicott City.

Oct. 30, 2022 | Why care about the saints?

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 01:19:03 -0400

As the Solemnity of All Saints approaches Nov. 1, we talk with the authors of two new books from Word Among Us Press about why we should care about the saints. In the first segment, our guest is Deacon Matthew Halbach of the Diocese of Des Moines, Iowa, author of “They Saw Through God’s Eyes: An Invitation from Mary and the Saints.” In the second segment, our guest is Elizabeth M. Kelly, author of “Love Like a Saint: Cultivating Virtue with Holy Women.”

Oct. 23, 2022 | St. John Paul II Spiritual Center

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 12:00:17 -0400

The Catholic Church marks the feast of Pope St. John Paul as the anniversary of his inauguration as pope in October 1978. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Maxime Nogier, executive director of the St. John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, D.C., about the long-reigning pontiff’s legacy and how the shrine supports people on a journey to Christ through the life and teachings of John Paul II.

Oct. 16, 2022 | Good Shepherd and Faithful Priest

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 12:00:16 -0400

Monsignor Joseph Luca recently died after many decades of priestly ministry as a good shepherd and faithful priest in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Father Michael DeAscanis, the current pastor of St. Louis in Clarksville and St. Francis of Assisi in Fulton, and Patricia (Pat) Marlatt, a Catholic school teacher, parishioner and longtime friend, share their stories of Monsignor Luca.

Oct. 9, 2022 | Vatican II book: “To Sanctify the World”

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 12:00:18 -0400

The first session of the Second Vatican Council opened 60 years ago, but the work of the church to Sanctify the world that was at the heart of the council continues now. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with author George Weigel about his new book, “To Sanctify the World: The Vital Legacy of Vatican II.” The author discusses why the documents that came out of the church’s 21st plenary council are as beautiful today as they were when they were issued.

October 2, 2022 | "Seek the City to Come" Urban Initiative

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 12:00:12 -0400

If there were no Catholic churches in the City of Baltimore, what kind of church would the city and community need? That question lies at the heart of a new initiative announced by the Archdiocese of Baltimore in late September focused on renewing parish ministry in the city, called “Seek the City to Come.” Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Bishop Bruce Lewandowski, urban vicar, and Geri Byrd, project lead, about the two-year listening and discernment process for the 57 parishes in the city and a few near-in parishes in Baltimore County, with the goal of more vibrant ministry, although likely with fewer churches open for worship.

Sept. 25, 2022 | College Campus Ministry

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Father Steven Roth speaks with Father Kevin Ewing about ministry to college students. Father Ewing is the Catholic campus minister at Towson University.

Sept. 18, 2022 | Monsignor Valenzano still inspires

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 12:00:14 -0400

It’s been eight years since the death of Monsignor Arthur Valenzano, former rector of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and a longtime pastor of St. John in Westminster. Father Brian Nolan and Paul Gallagher, director of faith formation at Sacred Heart in Glyndon, shares memories of an amazing priest.

Sept. 11, 2022 | What Does God Say About Money?

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 12:00:10 -0400

What do God and the Catholic Church say about money? About 10 years ago, Jonathan and Amanda Teixeira were $24,000 in debt. Eight months later, they were completely debt-free. Since eliminating all their debt they focused on saving, investing and giving. They also started WalletWin, crafted from years of personal experience living out a financial plan based on Catholic principles and helping others do the same. In this encore episode, Catholic Review Associate Publisher Christopher Gunty talks with the Teixeiras about how they approach finance from a Catholic perspective and discusses their new book from OSV Books, “How to Attack Debt, Build Savings and Change the World Through Generosity.”

Sept. 4, 2022 | CRS outreach on Ukraine and climate change

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 12:00:19 -0400

Catholic Review Associate Publisher Christopher Gunty talks with Megan Gilbert, communications officer for Catholic Relief Services in Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. Six months into the war in Ukraine, Gilbert discusses the situation there and how CRS is helping with shelter, jobs and education. She also talks about a new campaign to address climate change that CRS will launch Oct. 4. Catholic Relief Services is the U.S. bishops’ overseas aid and development agency.

Aug. 28, 2022 | An interview with the superintendent of Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic Schools

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 11:22:19 -0400

Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore open for students Aug. 29. Dr. Donna Hargens, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, joins us to talk about enrollment trends, efforts to keep children safe and special projects for the new academic year.

Aug. 21, 2022 | A practical guide for raising families of faith

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 12:00:18 -0400

Kristen Fisher speaks about a new book she co-authored called “The One Best Thing: A Practical Guide for Raising Families of Faith.” She shares how every person has a deep desire and pattern of preference for either beauty, truth or goodness. Knowing one’s primary preference helps a person to thrive spiritually. Fisher is the executive director of Ablaze Family Ministries that works with families to encounter and respond to the Lord together.

Aug. 14, 2022 | Solemnity of the Assumption/World Youth Day

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Aug. 15 is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Joining us to talk about the significance of this feast is Monsignor Charles Mangan, a theology professor at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg. Angelus Virata, director of evangelization at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, talks about special Assumption events planned for the basilica. She also has information for young adults about local and international activities connected to World Youth Day.

Aug. 7, 2022 | Camp St. Vincent

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 12:00:12 -0400

Since 1907, Camp St. Vincent has provided children from low-income families an annual summer camp that features everything from fun activities such as swimming to academic support. Sponsored by St. Vincent de Paul Baltimore, the camp today exclusively serves children from families experiencing homelessness. Mary Helfrich, chief advancement officer for St. Vincent de Paul Baltimore and a parishioner of St. Louis in Clarksville, shares the amazing history and ministry of Camp St. Vincent.

July 31, 2022 | Extraterrestrial Intelligence and the Catholic Faith

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 12:00:12 -0400

Is there intelligent extraterrestrial Life elsewhere in the universe? And if there is, what do the Catholic Church, Scripture and theology have to say about it? Catholic Review Associate Publisher Christopher Gunty talks with author and theologian Dr. Paul Thigpen about his new book, “Extraterrestrial Terrestrial Intelligence and the Catholic Faith: Are We Alone in the Universe with God and the Angels?” The book takes a deep dive into Catholic scholars throughout history and their comments on the topic. Thigpen, a former atheist, talks about how his journey to Christianity and then to the Catholic faith shaped his views on the question.

July 24, 2022 | Parish Renewal

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0400

It’s been about a year since Archbishop William E. Lori established the Office of Parish Renewal to help strengthen faith communities throughout the archdiocese and support parishes in forming missionary disciples. Joining us to talk about the mission and ministry of parish renewal is Julie St. Croix, director of the Office of Parish Renewal. St. Croix first joined the archdiocese in 2012. She is a former pastoral associate for Bishop Denis J. Madden in the urban vicariate and a former coordinator of pastoral leadership formation. She also has six years experience as director of religious education at St. John the Evangelist in Frederick.

July 17, 2022 | That Man Is You

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 12:00:12 -0400

Matt Brady speaks about “That Man Is You,” a program at Our Lady of the Fields in Millersville and an apostolate of Paradisus Dei through which men are called to honestly address the pressures and temptations they face and challenged to grow in virtue to become the husbands, fathers and men after the heart of Christ. Brady is a founding core team leader for “That Man is You” since its beginning at Our Lady of the Fields seven years ago. He is a husband and father of four children and owns a small CPA firm in Bowie.

July 10, 2022 | Black Catholic Nuns

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 12:00:08 -0400

In “Subversive Habits: Black Catholic Nuns in the Long African American Freedom Struggle,” Dr. Shannen Dee Williams provides the first full history of Black Catholic nuns in the United States. We speak with Dr. Williams about what inspired her to write this history and what she learned in her extensive research, which included a look at the Baltimore-based Oblate Sisters of Providence.

July 3, 2022 | The state of the nation

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Is the United States of America in a healthy place politically and socially as we approach Independence Day 2022? Political scientist Michael Towle, a professor at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, Md., doesn’t think so. Catholic Review editor Christopher Gunty talks with Dr. Towle about where we went wrong and whether we can heal, as a nation.

June 26, 2022 | Cannonball Moments

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 12:00:13 -0400

Being able to reflect on our own stories and the everyday details of our lives is critical to growing in our faith. Eric Clayton, a parishioner of St. Ignatius in Baltimore who serves as deputy director of communications at the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States, joins us in this encore episode of Catholic Review Radio to talk about the importance of storytelling. Eric, who previously worked for Baltimore-based Catholic Relief Services, is the author of “Cannonball Moments: Telling your Story, Deepening your Faith.” Drawing on the spiritual insights of St. Ignatius Loyola, the book encourages readers to develop a healthy sense of self-reflection as a means of drawing closer to Christ.

June 19, 2022 | Black Catholic Ministry & Juneteenth

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 16:06:05 -0400

George Matysek interviews Adrienne Curry, the newly appointed director of the Office of Black Ministry for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, about her vision for Black Catholic ministry. They also discuss the significance of the Juneteenth holiday.

June 12, 2022 | God healed me through St. Titus Brandsma

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 12:00:17 -0400

Carmelite Father Michael Driscoll shares the story of St. Titus Brandsma, a Dutch Carmelite priest who vehemently opposed the Nazis. St. Titus inspired Father Driscoll as a priest and it was through the saint’s intersession that Father Driscoll was healed of later-stage melanoma. Father Driscoll, former pastor of St. Jude Church in Boca Raton, Florida, is now cancer-free for 18 years.

June 5, 2022 | A mom’s perspective on a son’s journey to the priesthood

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 12:00:14 -0400

Mary Ellen Bilenki is a parishioner of St. Alphonsus Rodriguez in Woodstock and the mother of Deacon John Bilenki, a recently ordained transitional deacon for the Archdiocese of Baltimore who is expected to be ordained a priest for the archdiocese next year. She shares a parent’s perspective of watching a son journey toward the priesthood.

May 29, 2022 | National Eucharistic Revival

Mon, 30 May 2022 12:00:10 -0400

The Archdiocese of Baltimore will close the Year of the Eucharist with a special Mass and eucharistic procession June 19 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen. That date, the feast of Corpus Christi, will also kick off a three-year National Eucharistic Revival sponsored by the U.S. Catholic bishops. This week on Catholic Review Radio, Christopher Gunty talks with Bishop Andrew Cozzens, chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis about the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist and about the plans a National Eucharistic Congress planned for 2024.

May 22, 2022 | Witnesses for Life: A conversation with Monsignor James Farmer

Mon, 23 May 2022 12:00:19 -0400

With the Supreme Court considering overturning Roe v. Wade, Monsignor James Farmer speaks about the dignity of all human life and the call to be witnesses for life. Monsignor Farmer is the pastor of St. Thomas More in Baltimore and a longtime spiritual director to Respect Life in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Prior to entering seminary he practiced law in Baltimore.

May 15, 2022 | Archbishop Lori Milestones

Mon, 16 May 2022 12:00:13 -0400

Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori celebrates his 45th anniversary as a priest May 14th and his 10th anniversary as archbishop of Baltimore May 16. Chris Gunty, associate publisher of Catholic Review Media, sat down with the archbishop for a wide-ranging chat about his ministry and pastoral plans. In excerpts from that interview, the archbishop comments about evangelization, the Eucharist and more on this episode of Catholic Review Radio.

May 8, 2022 | Saintly Moms: 25 Stories of Holiness

Mon, 09 May 2022 08:00:00 -0400

In honor of Mother’s Day, Kelly Ann Guest shares some insights about Catholic saints who were also moms. Kelly is a former Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia in Nashville who is now the mother of nine children. She is the youth minister at St. Bartholomew in Manchester and the author of a new book, “Saintly Moms: 25 Stories of Holiness.”

May 1, 2022 | The life and spirituality of St. Charles de Foucauld

Mon, 02 May 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Pope Francis will canonize Blessed Charles de Foucauld May 15 in Rome. Who is this soon-to-be saint? Sister Cathy Wright, a Little Sister of Jesus and author of “St. Charles de Foucauld: His Life and Spirituality,” joins us to talk about the amazing life of a man who was a cavalry officer in the French Army, an explorer, a reformed sinner, a hermit and a priest who showed the importance of what Pope Francis has called a “culture of encounter.”

Apr. 24, 2022 | Jesus is Trustworthy: Stories of Faith and Divine Mercy

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0400

Bernie Antkowiak, a musician, song writer, husband and father of 7, shares stories of faith and how the message of Divine Mercy entered his life. He became a promoter of Divine Mercy, including promoting the chaplet through music. He is a parishioner of St. Isaac Jogues in Carney.

Apr. 17, 2022 | The Shroud of Turin

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 12:00:14 -0400

Is the Shroud of Turin the burial cloth of Christ? Millions of people around the world believe the 14-foot linen is authentic, based on the details – including a photo-negative of a man crucified in the same manner described in Scripture and blood stains – because it seems no artist in the Middle Ages could have created it, since the principles of photographer were not known for another five centuries. As we celebrate Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Myra Kahn Adams, a Shroud devotee who helped bring a temporary exhibit about it to the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. Adams talks about the Shroud’s history and the scientific studies into it – and whether we need “proof” of the Resurrection via a piece of cloth in order to believe in the risen Savior.

Apr. 10, 2022 | Cannonball Moments

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 12:00:08 -0400

Being able to reflect on our own stories and the everyday details of our lives is critical to growing in our faith. Joining us to talk about how to do that is Eric Clayton, a parishioner of St. Ignatius in Baltimore who serves as deputy director of communications at the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States. Eric, who previously worked for Baltimore-based Catholic Relief Services, is the author of “Cannonball Moments: Telling your Story, Deepening your Faith.” Drawing on the spiritual insights of St. Ignatius Loyola, the book encourages readers to develop a healthy sense of self-reflection as a means of drawing closer to Christ.

Apr. 3, 2022 | Catholics and the Environment

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 08:00:00 -0400

With Earth Day coming up in April, “Catholic Review Radio” takes a look at the Catholic movement to address climate change, which didn’t start with Pope Francis’ encyclical, “Laudato Si’ – On Care for Our Common Home.” Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks first with José Aguto, executive director of the Catholic Climate Covenant about the principles behind Catholic teaching on care for the Earth. Aguto points out that the first words of the Bible say that God created the heavens and the earth, and we have a responsibility to protect creation for ourselves and others. In the second half of the show, we talk with Nolan McCoy, director of facilities and real estate management for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, about ways that the Catholic Center, parishes and schools are specifically making efforts toward sustainability, including the use of solar and wind power, energy-efficient buildings and better water management.

Mar. 27, 2022 | Understanding the devil’s tactics as we grow spiritually

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 12:00:13 -0400

Dan Burke breaks down St. Teresa Avila’s timeless classic, “The Interior Castle,” that explains the seven levels of progress in the spiritual life from a doctor of the church. He highlights the specific patterns the Evil One employs at the various stages of growing closer to God. Burke, a prolific author, is the founder and president of the Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation, which offers graduate and personal enrichment studies in spiritual theology to priests, deacons, religious and laity in 90 countries and prepares men for seminary in more than 30 dioceses.

Mar. 20, 2022 | What Does God Say About Money?

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 12:00:13 -0400

What do God and the Catholic Church say about money? About 10 years ago, Jonathan and Amanda Teixeira were $24,000 in debt. Eight months later, they were completely debt-free. Since eliminating all their debt they focused on saving, investing and giving. They also started WalletWin, crafted from years of personal experience living out a financial plan based on Catholic principles and helping others do the same. Catholic Review Associate Publisher Christopher Gunty talks with the Teixeiras about how they approach finance from a Catholic perspective and discusses their new book from OSV Books, “How to Attack Debt, Build Savings and Change the World Through Generosity.”

Mar. 13, 2022 | Vocations journey

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 12:00:17 -0400

Father Steven Roth, vocations director for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, talks with Father Matt Himes about his journey to the priesthood and his work in discernment. Father Himes is the associate pastor Our Lady of the Fields in Millersville and the newly appointed associate vocations director who will be focusing especially on helping young men discern the call to religious life.

Mar. 6, 2022 | Lenten Spirituality

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 13:00:10 -0400

Lent is a great time to grow in your faith and deepen your relationship with Christ. George Matysek talks with Paul and Sarah Jarzembowski about practical ways of making this Lent a time of spiritual growth. Paul Jarzembowski is associate director for the laity with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Washington, D.C. and author of “Hope from the Ashes: Insights and Resources for Welcoming Lenten Visitors.” Sarah Jarzembowski is the evangelization director for St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Crofton.

Feb. 27, 2022 | Catholic Homeschooling

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 13:00:10 -0400

Gina Abel, a parishioner of St. John in Westminster and a former teacher in the Catholic school system of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, shares her experiences homeschooling her five children. She also offers practical tips for parents who are considering homeschooling.

Feb. 20, 2022 | Reflections of a Priest: A Conversation with Father Michael Roach

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 13:00:13 -0400

Father Michael Roach shares experiences and stories from his over 50 years of priestly ministry. Father Roach is the pastor of St. Bartholomew in Manchester, president of the board of trustees at Mount De Sales Academy in Catonsville and has taught Church history at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg for many years.

Feb. 13, 2022 | Faith and Science

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 13:00:17 -0400

Is faith compatible with the hard sciences? Many folks don’t know that some of the biggest scientific discoveries – including the Big Bang Theory – have been made by people of faith. This week on Catholic Review Radio, Editor Christopher Gunty talks with three Catholics about the intersection of faith and science. The first segment features Michael Menzel, a NASA engineer who has spent more than 20 years working on the James Webb Space Telescope, which launched on Christmas Day. In the second segment, Stephen Barr and Matthew Wiesner, members of the Society for Catholic Scientist, talk about how scientists help us all look at the world through the lenses of wonder and curiosity.

Feb. 6, 2022 | Understanding Flannery O’Connor

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 13:00:15 -0400

Flannery O’Connor is recognized as one of the most respected writers of the 20th century. Known for her exploration of complex moral questions, O’Connor’s Catholic faith and her own personal experience of suffering often illuminated her work. Dr. Angela Alaimo O’Donnell, a writer, poet and professor at Fordham University in New York and one of the world’s foremost authorities on Flannery O’Connor, shares her insights on understanding O’Connor. O’Donnell is a former longtime professor at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore and a former parishioner of St. Francis of Assisi in Baltimore.

Jan 30, 2022 | Hope and Healing for Marriage and Families

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 13:00:15 -0400

Father Brian Nolan explores practical ways of strengthening marriages and families that gives hope. His guest is Art Bennett, a licensed marriage and family therapist, a popular speaker and the co-author of a number of books with his wife Lorraine, including “The Temperament God Gave You.” Bennett is also the former director of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Arlington, a father of four and grandfather of eight.

Jan. 23, 2022 | The Good Life Method

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 13:00:14 -0400

What are the answers to the big questions of happiness, faith and meaning? Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with philosophers Meghan Sullivan and Paul Blaschko of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind., about their new book, “The Good Life Method.” Hear from the professors about why their intro to philosophy class, “God and the Good Life” became popular and how to apply the insights of great philosophers to your life today.

Jan. 16, 2022 | Year in Review and a Look Ahead

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 04:13:32 -0400

In this encore episode focused on the year that just ended and the year ahead, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty sits down with Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori to discuss the Year of the Eucharist, the worldwide synod, COVID-19, new seminarians and a new school, his new role chairing the U.S. bishop’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities and walks with Bayley, the archbishop’s dog.

Jan. 9, 2022 | 52 Masses

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 13:00:32 -0400

Some people go to Mass at the same church every week and sit in the same pew each time. Daniel Markham is on a quest to visit 52 different churches over the course of a little over a year – one in each state plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty chatted with Daniel in Millersville during his stop in Maryland at Our Lady of the Fields. Hear about Daniel’s journey and the book that he will be writing about the experience.

Jan. 2, 2022 | Bible in a Year

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 13:01:22 -0400

Are you making a New Year’s resolution to enhance your spiritual life? Start with sacred Scripture. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty kicks off the new year on Catholic Review Radio talking with two guests about ways to understand and appreciate the Bible better. The first segment features Kassie Manning talking about “Every Sacred Sunday,” a book that contains the Sunday Mass readings with space to write your prayers and reflections. In the second segment, Chris catches up with Mark Hart, known worldwide as the Bible Geek, who talks about how to get into a habit of reading Scripture. Pro tip: Don’t start with the book of Genesis, but with the Gospel of Mark.

Dec. 26, 2021 | Year in Review and Year Ahead

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0400

It has been an eventful year in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, and the year ahead will be busy as well. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty sits down with Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori about the Year of the Eucharist, the worldwide synod, COVID-19, new seminarians and a new school, his new role chairing the U.S. bishop’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities and walks with Bayley, the archbishop’s dog.

Dec. 19, 2021 | Why We Need Christmas Movies

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 13:00:06 -0400

John Mulderig, Assistant Director for Media Reviews and Visual Media for Catholic News Service, gives us his insights and recommendations for best Christmas movies that help inspire us to faith and virtue. He shares the lessons we learn from them that can be shared with our families.

Dec. 12, 2021 | Christmas music and the power of song in times of plague

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 13:00:10 -0400

It seems that the Christmas season just isn’t complete without Christmas carols and other holiday songs. What is it about this particular music that puts many people in a good mood and why does it have such staying power? Dr. Remi Chiu, a musicologist at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore and author of “Plague and Music in the Renaissance” talks with George Matysek about Christmas music and the historic power of music in times of plague and pandemic.

Dec. 5, 2021 | Catching up with Matt Birk/New Film on St. Joseph

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 13:00:12 -0400

Matt Birk is best known as a hardworking offensive lineman who helped the Baltimore Ravens win a Superbowl in 2013. He’s also a devoted Catholic, father of eight and a champion of the pro-life cause. George Matysek catches up with Birk and also speaks with David Naglieri, the producer of a new documentary on St. Joseph made by the Knights of Columbus. The film includes an appearance by Matt Birk.

Nov. 28, 2021 | Spiritual preparation during Advent

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Advent begins Nov. 28. How do we prepare spiritually for Christmas, in our busy world? This week on Catholic Review Radio, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Craig Gould, director of the Office of Family, Youth and Young Adult Ministries, about activities that families and individuals of all ages can do to get ready. Deacon Greg Kandra of the Deacon’s Bench blog talks about “pacing yourself” so that by the time Christmas arrives, it’s not anti-climactic.

Nov. 21, 2021 | Be Grateful: How Our Catholic Faith Inspires Us to Gratitude

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 13:00:09 -0400

Father Brian Nolan speaks with Annie McHugh about the importance of practicing gratitude at all times. She speaks about how our faith in God inspires and encourages us to be witnesses of gratefulness. Annie is a Catholic speaker and parish youth minister in Rockville and a home-schooling mother of five children. She studied Theology, Pastoral Ministry and Media Studies at The Catholic University of America. She and her husband, Mike, run the Rockville Catholic Summer Program and give talks about life and love through their family ministry, “Mike and Annie Talk.”

Nov. 14, 2021 | The life and faith of Gerard Manley Hopkins

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 13:00:21 -0400

Gerard Manley Hopkins is regarded as one of the most beloved poets of the 19th century. Hopkins grew up in the Anglican Church in England and later converted to Catholicism and became a Jesuit priest. In this encore episode, guest host Shaileen Beyer interviews Catharine Randall about her new book, “A Heart Lost in Wonder: The Life and Faith of Gerard Manley Hopkins.”

Nov. 7, 2021 | The Eucharist; Changes at Catholic Review

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 13:00:14 -0400

This week on Catholic Review Radio, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Los Angeles Bishop Robert Barron about the Eucharist and why the U.S. bishops are hoping for a revival of eucharistic devotion. The second segment features George Matysek Jr, new managing editor of Catholic Review Media, discussing the joys and challenges of working in Catholic journalism.

Oct. 31, 2021 | Ministering to military veterans

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 12:00:14 -0400

Bishop Joseph Coffey, episcopal vicar for veterans affairs with the Archdiocese for U.S. Military Services, joins us to talk about his experiences as a military chaplain and how the Archdiocese for U.S. Military Services ministers to veterans.

Oct. 24, 2021 | Interview with an Exorcist

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 12:00:32 -0400

Father Brian Nolan talks with Monsignor Stephen Rossetti about exorcism and avoiding the power of evil. Monsignor Rossetti is the author of Diary of an Exorcist: Demons, Possession, and the Modern-Day Battle Against Ancient Evil, president of the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal and a research associate professor at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. A licensed psychologist, he has participated in hundreds of exorcisms.

Oct. 17, 2021 | The Rosary

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 12:00:11 -0400

October is the month of the rosary, and this week on Catholic Review Radio, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty has few guests to talk about this enduring devotion. First, a conversation with Bishop Bob Barron about the origins of the rosary and the prayer’s contemplative nature. The second segment features Mari Brady, president of Ranger Rosary, and Redemptorist Father Patrick Woods of St. Mary’s Parish in Annapolis, where the ministry began in 2003 that has since brought 1.5 million rosaries to military members around the world.

Oct. 10, 2021 | Racism Coordinating Council and World Synod

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 12:00:17 -0400

Bishop Bruce Lewandowski, auxiliary bishop of Baltimore, is heading up two archdiocesan efforts these days. Christopher Gunty of Catholic Review Media talks with Bishop Bruce about the Coordinating Council working on the Journey Toward Racial Justice, which the bishop chairs, and the archdiocesan preparations for the World Synod of Bishops to be held next October at the Vatican. Learn why the bishop says the synod process is about helping us all to become “one big ear.”

Oct. 3, 2021 | The inspiring life of Blessed Francis X. Seelos

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 12:00:10 -0400

Oct 5 marks the feast of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos, a Redemptorist missionary who ministered in the Archdiocese of Baltimore at parishes including St. Alphonsus Ligouri in Baltimore, St. Mary in Annapolis and Ss. Peter and Paul in Cumberland. Blessed Seelos came to the United States from Bavaria to minister to German immigrants and also worked with young men in formation to become Redemptorist priests. George Matysek talks about the inspiring life of Blessed Seelos with Redemptorist Father Richard Boever, executive director of the National Shrine of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos in New Orleans and the author of a newly released book called “Zealous Missionary: From The Perspective Of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos.”

Sept.. 26, 2021 | Catholic Relief Services – Migration and the Pandemic

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 12:00:19 -0400

Poverty, violence and climate change are all factors in migration – people moving from one region to another. It’s a story that has been going on throughout the history of humanity. This week on Catholic Review Radio, Christopher Gunty talks with Bill O’Keefe, executive vice president for Mission, Mobility and Advocacy for Baltimore-based Catholic Relief Services about migration, the coronavirus pandemic and how foreign policy can respect the dignity of all people.

Sept. 19, 2021 | Encouraging children to read

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 12:00:16 -0400

Encouraging a love of reading is one of the best gifts parents can give their children. On today’s show, George Matysek talks with Cheri Blomquist about ways parents can cultivate that gift and how they can select works best suited for their children. Blomquist is the author of “Before Austen Comes Aesop: The Children’s Great Books and How to Experience Them.”

Sept. 12, 2021 | Seminarians in the parishes

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 12:00:17 -0400

Every year, seminarians of the Archdiocese of Baltimore are placed in parishes throughout the archdiocese to learn about parish life and to experience ministry first-hand. Father Steven Roth, vocations director for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, talks with Rick Balog, parish manager at St. Isaac Jogues in Carney, about how seminarians serve at his parish.

Sept. 5, 2021 | Baltimore Basilica 200th Anniversary

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 12:00:16 -0400

The Baltimore Basilica is marking its 200th anniversary year with special events and celebrations. Catholic Review Radio hosts two special guests who recently spoke at the vigil and Mass for the patronal feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Aug. 14 and 15 – Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Bishop Robert Barron, respectively. Christopher Gunty talks with the two prelates about the history of America’s first cathedral and its significance for today.

Aug. 29, 2021 | Catholic education in the 2021-22 school year

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 00:45:18 -0400

The 2021-2022 academic year is filled with promise for Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. On today's show, George Matysek talks with Dr. Donna Hargens, superintendent of Catholic schools, about increasing enrollment, plans for educating children during a continuing pandemic and how schools will be involved in the Year of the Eucharist. In the second segment, we take you to the blessing ceremony for the new Mother Mary Lange Catholic School in Baltimore, where we hear from Gov. Larry Hogan, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and more.

Aug. 22, 2021 | From Baltimore to the Border

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 12:00:15 -0400

Father Brian Nolan talks with Daughter of Charity Sister Liz Sjoberg about a calling that has brought her to Pasadena, MD, Mount St. Mary’s University, and currently at the front lines serving the poor at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Aug. 15, 2021 | After his death at 21, Isaac Scharbach continues to touch lives

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Isaac Scharbach, a graduate of Mount St. Joseph in Baltimore, was a gifted artist and iconographer who was considering a call to religious life when he was killed in an accident at 21. George Matysek talks with Father Albert Scharbach, Isaac's father, about his son's extraordinary faith and the countless lives he has touched around the globe in his death.

Aug. 8, 2021 | Books and Authors: Holly Ordway and Emily Koczela

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 12:00:15 -0400

It’s Books and Authors Day on Catholic Review Radio. This week, Christopher Gunty talks with Dr. Holly Ordway about her new book, “Tolkien’s Modern Reading – Middle-earth Beyond the Middle Ages” and how Tolkien’s Catholic faith influenced the author’s work. Also, George Matysek chats with Emily Koczela about the Very Young Catholic Project, which is a series of books that deal with the life of everyday Catholic children around the world.

Aug. 1, 2021 | Dante Barksdale’s Last Act

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 12:00:04 -0400

Dante Barksdale had some wrongs in his life, but in the end he became a peacemaker in Baltimore’s Safe Streets program before his own life was snuffed out by gun violence. Baltimore-based Panacea Media made a documentary film, “Dante Barksdale’s Last Act,” to reflect on the redemption and healing that came toward the end of Dante’s life when the woman whose son he killed in a car accident forgave him 20 years later. Their story inspired another woman to forgive the man who accidentally ran down her son. Christopher Gunty talks with Daniel O’Connor, who produced the film, and the two inspiring mothers – Kenyati Gerald and Terri Abbott – who forgave the men who took the life of their sons.

July 25, 2021 | Blessed Father Stanley Rother

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 12:00:11 -0400

Blessed Father Stanley Rother was trained at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Md., and ordained in 1963. In 1981, he was martyred in the rectory of the mission he served in Guatemala. He was beatified in 2017, and his feast day is July 28. This week on Catholic Review Radio, Christopher Gunty speaks with Monsignor Thomas Tewes, a classmate of Father Rother, and Maria Ruiz Scaperlanda, who wrote the definitive biography of Father Rother.

July 18, 2021 | Dignity of the Elderly

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Pope Francis declared a World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, which will be observed for the first time July 25 this year. Joining us to talk about the dignity of the elderly is Erin Younkins, director of the Archdiocese of Baltimore's office of life, justice and peace within the Institute for Evangelization. Younkins is a former occupational therapist who worked primarily in geriatrics.

July 11, 2021 | St. Ignatius Loyola and the Spiritual Exercises

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 08:00:00 -0400

In this encore episode, George Matysek speaks with Jesuit Father Stephen Spahn, a theology professor at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore, about the Spiritual Exercises and the man behind them.

July 4, 2021 | Quo Vadis Vocations Camp

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Luke Koski, a seminarian of the Archdiocese of Baltimore stationed at Christ the King in Glen Burnie for his pastoral year, shares his call to the priesthood and talks about Quo Vadis, an upcoming vocations camp for high school boys.

June 27, 2021 | So you're getting a new priest?

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400

This program delves into the process of how priests are assigned to parishes and gives a glimpse into how a current priest in transition prepares for and experiences a change in assignment. Our guests are Father Jim Proffitt, director of clergy personnel and Father Michael DeAscanis, outgoing pastor of St. Philip Neri in Linthicum and St. Clement I in Lansdowne.

June 20, 2021 | Importance of Fathers/New book by Tony Pagnotti

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 12:00:19 -0400

Josephite Father Kingsley Ogbuji shares some of his experiences ministering to prisoners and what he has learned about the importance of fatherhood. Also, Tony Pagnotti talks about his new book, "My Scripted and Unscripted Life: A Memoir of a TV Newsman."

June 13, 2021 | The history and Catholic connections at Fort McHenry

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 08:00:00 -0400

In honor of Flag Day, Vince Vaise, one of the world's foremost experts on the history of the Battle of Baltimore and Fort McHenry, tells us about the fascinating history of the battle that inspired our national anthem and also shares Catholic connections in the fort's long history -- including during the Civil War.

June 6, 2021 | Year of the Eucharist

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 13:39:43 -0400

The Archdiocese of Baltimore launched a Year of the Eucharist on the feast of Corpus Christi, June 6, to help Catholics “Encounter Christ’s Presence” in the Body and Blood of Christ, in the congregation, in the Word of God and in the priest/celebrant. Christopher Gunty of Catholic Review Media talks with Edward Herrera, executive director for the archdiocese’s Institute for Evangelization, about the key dates and goals for the year, and with Father Gerard Francik, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Glyndon, about how his parish will implement the year and welcome people back to participation in the Mass and ministries. http://www.archbalt.org/year-of-the-eucharist

May 30, 2021 | The New Evangelization for a Secular Age

Sun, 30 May 2021 17:01:03 -0400

In this encore episode, George Matysek speaks with Sulpician Father Robert Leavitt, former president-rector of St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore, about his book, “The Truth Will Make You Free: The New Evangelization for a Secular Age.”

May 23, 2021 | The Spirituality of the Little Way/Parents of a Saint

Mon, 24 May 2021 12:00:10 -0400

St. Thérèse of Lisieux embraced a simple spirituality she referred to as the “Little Way.” It encourages believers to see themselves as children of God, to trust in God with child-like simplicity and to do the ordinary things of life with extraordinary love. In our first segment, we speak with Father Michael Orchik, pastor of the Shrine of the Little Flower in Baltimore, about the spirituality of the “Little Way.” In our second segment, we interview GinaMarie Tennant, author of Louis and Zelie: The Holy Parents of St. Thérèse,” a new children’s book about the holy lives of St. Thérèse’s parents.

May 16, 2021 | Baltimore Basilica: A look at its architecture and coming perpetual adoration

Mon, 17 May 2021 12:00:16 -0400

The Baltimore Basilica will celebrate the 200th anniversary of its dedication May 31, the same day it will launch perpetual eucharistic adoration. We take a look at the architecture of America's first cathedral with Duncan Stroik, professor of architecture at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. Father James Boric, basilica rector, also tells us about the inauguration of perpetual eucharistic adoration in the basilica's undercroft.

May 9, 2021 | The Life and Faith of Gerard Manley Hopkins

Mon, 10 May 2021 12:00:40 -0400

Gerard Manley Hopkins is regarded as one of the most beloved poets of the 19th century. Hopkins grew up in the Anglican Church in England and later converted to Catholicism and became a Jesuit priest. On the May 9 episode of Catholic Review Radio, guest host Shaileen Beyer interviews Catharine Randall about her new book, “A Heart Lost in Wonder: The Life and Faith of Gerard Manley Hopkins.”

May 2, 2021 | Books and Authors: Elegies; Mary in the Gospel of John

Mon, 03 May 2021 12:00:12 -0400

It’s “books and authors” day on Catholic Review Radio. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with two authors about their new books: George Weigel, discusses why he compiled 60 elegies of “mostly admirable” folks in “Not Forgotten: Elegies for, and Reminiscences of, a Diverse Cast of Characters, Most of Them Admirable” (Ignatius Press). Dr. Michael Pakaluk looks at the relationship between the Blessed Mother and the beloved disciple in “Mary’s Voice in the Gospel According to John” (Regnery Publishing).

Apr. 25, 2021 | Catholic themes in Shakespeare

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 12:00:11 -0400

Was Shakespeare Catholic? Why are there so many Catholic characters and moral themes in his plays? As we commemorate the bard’s birthday, Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty sits down with two local professors to talk about the Bard of Avon and the classics. Listen to our conversation with Sean Lewis, associate professor of English at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, and Robert Miola, Professor of English and a lecturer in Classics at Loyola University Maryland, April 25 at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on WMET 1160 AM and 103.1 FM. The show is also available Sundays on WSJF in Sykesville/Eldersburg at 11:45 a.m. and 4 p.m., and on WVTO 92.7 FM in Southwest Baltimore at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Apr. 18, 2021 | Oscars and Movies in the pandemic

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 12:00:29 -0400

Catholic Review Radio gets ready for the Oscars, which will be broadcast April 26, 8 p.m. EDT. Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty and co-host Ann Augherton of the Arlington Catholic Herald talk with two Catholic movie experts – John Mulderig of Catholic News Service and Daughter of St. Paul Sr. Rose Pacatte – about how the pandemic affected moviegoing in 2020. We get the experts’ takes on each of the nominees for Best Picture and get their prediction on which movie will win the coveted #BestPicture #Oscar.

Apr. 11, 2021 | Spending Less and Living More

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 12:00:16 -0400

Sam Fatzinger and her husband Rob are co-authors of a new book entitled, A Catholic Guide to Spending Less and Living More: Advice from a debt-free family of 16. In an interview with Father Brian Nolan, Sam Fatzinger shares practical wisdom and her family's experience of “living more” and “spending less.”

Apr. 4, 2021 | Archbishop Lori on Easter, Evangelization and the Eucharist

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 12:00:10 -0400

Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Baltimore Archbishop William Lori about Easter, relaxing restrictions related to the pandemic, evangelization and the upcoming Year of the Eucharist in a conversation for Easter Sunday.

Mar. 28, 2021 | Seminarians in the Archdiocese of Baltimore

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 12:00:10 -0400

Father Steven Roth, vocations director for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, speaks with two seminarians from St. John Paul II Seminary in Washington, D.C., who are college students at The Catholic University of America preparing to become priests for the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Connor Schmidt is a parishioner of St. Ignatius in Ijamsville and Stephen Kirby is a parishioner of St. John the Evangelist in Severna Park. They talk about the discernment process and their experiences in seminary.

Mar. 21, 2021 | St. Ignatius Loyola and the Spiritual Exercises

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 12:00:39 -0400

Since they were first published in 1548, St. Ignatius Loyola's Spiritual Exercises have been helping people across the world deepen their relationship with Christ. A compilation of prayers, meditations and contemplative practices, the exercises are known for engaging the imagination and challenging believers to stretch themselves spirituality. George Matysek speaks with Jesuit Father Stephen Spahn, a theology professor at Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore, about the Spiritual Exercises and the man behind them.

Mar. 14, 2021 | Josephites and the Year of St. Joseph

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 12:00:18 -0400

George Matysek talks with Josephite Father Donald Fest about the Year of St. Joseph and the historic role the Baltimore-based Josephites have played in promoting devotion to St. Joseph. Father Fest is the former longtime pastor of St. Veronica in the Cherry Hill section of Baltimore who now serves as pastor of St. Joseph in Alexandria, Va.

Mar. 7, 2021 | Freedom from Addiction to Pornography: A Message of Hope for Parents and Adults

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 13:00:18 -0400

Father Kilcawley, director of family life and a priest of the Diocese of Lincoln, Nebraska, shares his pastoral experience supporting parents whose children have been exposed to pornography and explains pastoral strategies and resources to help adults addicted to pornography. Father Kilcawley is a nationally recognized speaker on Theology of the Body, human love and pornography addiction. He is a theological advisor for IntegrityRestored.com, a non-profit organization that seeks to restore the integrity of families affected by pornography by providing education and resources to individuals, spouses, parents and clergy; to both heal and prevent wounds inflicted by the sexualized culture.

Feb. 28, 2021 | Translations of the Bible: What are the options?

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 13:00:12 -0400

Dr. Mark Giszczak, Associate Professor of Sacred Scripture with the Denver-based Augustine Institute, speaks with George Matysek about the differing approaches scholars have taken to translating the Bible over the centuries. He offers tips for choosing a translation for prayer, study or reflection that best suits its intended use. He also tells us about the newly-released English Standard Version-Catholic Edition of the Bible.

Feb. 21, 2021 | Human Trafficking

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 13:00:18 -0400

Erin Younkins, Coordinator for Outreach and Education in the Respect Life Office of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, educates parents on the prevalence of human trafficking, how Baltimore is one of the largest hubs for this crime and how children and adults can be enticed into being victims. She shares information about the challenges of social media and what parents should know to protect their children.

Feb. 14, 2021 | Valentine’s Day and Lent

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 13:00:22 -0400

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Christopher Gunty talks with Edward Herrera of the Archdiocese of Baltimore Office of Marriage and Family Life about keeping your marriage happy, healthy and holy in these difficult times. With Ash Wednesday coming up, they also talk about family activities for Lent.

Feb. 7, 2021 | Book: Dinner with the Saints

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 13:00:18 -0400

When you want to get to know people, one way to do that is to throw a dinner party. In “Dinner Party with the Saints,” author Woodeene Koenig-Bricker, along with cook extraordinaire Celia Murphy, invite you to get to know 16 saints through a fictionalized conversation, a brief biography and a recipe that the saint might have enjoyed. Catholic Review Media’s Christopher Gunty chats with Woodeene about these saints and the recipes they inspired for the new book from Paraclete Press.

Jan. 31, 2021 | Sr. Bernadette Reis and the Daughters of St. Paul

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 17:45:27 -0400

If you watched Pope Francis’ Christmas Mass from the Vatican, you heard the voice of Sr. Bernadette Reis, fsp, provide English-language commentary. The Catholic Review’s Christopher Gunty chats with Sr. Reis about her work in Rome for Vatican News and about the media-focused ministry of her religious order, the Daughters of St. Paul.

Jan. 24, 2021 | Military Chaplaincy

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 13:00:09 -0400

On this week’s episode of Catholic Review Radio, George Matysek interviews Father Thomas Gills about his many years as a military chaplain with the U.S. Air Force. Father Gills first went on active duty right after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 and some of his assignments included serving at several military bases in the United States and overseas, including in war zones. Father Gills also spent five years as a chaplain to cadets at the Air Force Academy. Father Gills currently serves as pastor of St. Peter the Apostle and St. Peter at the Lake in Western Maryland.

Jan. 17, 2021 | Growing in friendship with the Lord and others in 2021

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 13:00:09 -0400

On this week’s episode of Catholic Review Radio, Father Brian Nolan talks with Susan Pieper about practical ways of growing in friendship with Jesus in the new year and the gift of friendship that helps us along the way. Pieper is a consecrated lay women who was instrumental with others in creating the Catholic Spiritual Mentorship Program in Kansas City, Kansas.

Jan. 10, 2021 | Stories of the Saints/Glenmary Home Missioners

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 13:00:10 -0400

On this week’s episode of Catholic Review Radio, George Matysek interviews Carey Wallace, author of a new children’s book about the saints called “Stories of the Saints: Bold and Inspiring Tales of Adventure, Grace, and Courage.” Christopher Gunty also speaks with Father Dan Dorsey, president of the Glenmary Home Missioners, about the work of Glenmary priests and brothers in rural areas of the country.

Jan. 3, 2021 | Pallottine Father Frank Donio

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 13:00:14 -0400

What is missionary discipleship and what does it mean to be a missionary disciple? In this encore episode, Pallottine Father Frank Donio, director of the Catholic Apostolate Center near Washington and the interim executive director of the Conference of Major Superiors of Men of the United States, tells us about it. We also take a look at a special WMET fundraiser co-sponsored by the Archdiocese of Baltimore and Catholic Review Media.

Dec. 27, 2020 | Year-End Show with Archbishop Lori

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 13:00:14 -0400

This week on Catholic Review Radio, Christopher Gunty talks with Baltimore Archbishop William Lori for a look back at 2020 and a look ahead to the new year. The archbishop talks about the passing of his father in February, the impact of the coronavirus on the archdiocese, initiatives against racism, an upcoming update of his pastoral letter, “A Light Brightly Visible,” and walking his dog around downtown Baltimore.

Dec. 20, 2020 | Christmas Joy

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 13:00:18 -0400

This week on Catholic Review Radio, Christopher Gunty talks with Father John Catoir, designated by Pope John Paul II as a “Messenger of Joy,” about the joy that comes from Jesus, and how to make it more present in your life. We also hear from the choirs at St. Joseph Parish in Cockeysville, with a hymn about Christ’s peace, “Dona Nobis Pacem.”

Dec. 13, 2020 | Baltimore’s newest seminarian

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 13:00:10 -0400

This week on Catholic Review Radio, Father Steven Roth interviews the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s newest seminarian. Franz Belleza, a parishioner of Our Lady of Victory in Arbutus, is originally from the Philippines. He shares what it’s like to apply to become a priest in the archdiocese and why he wants to serve people in the Baltimore archdiocese. We also feature a special Advent song at the end of the show.

Dec. 6, 2020 | “Extraordinary Life” and Advent

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 13:00:15 -0400

This week on Catholic Review Radio, Christopher Gunty talks with author and blogger Deacon Greg Kandra about his new book, “The Busy Person’s Guide to an Extraordinary Life,” in which the deacon shares how the events of 9/11 inspired him to look at his life in a different way, eventually becoming a deacon. Gunty also talks with Edward Hererra, director of the Archdiocese of Baltimore Office of Marriage and Family Life about family Advent activities.

Nov. 29, 2020 | Missionary Discipleship

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 12:44:51 -0400

What is missionary discipleship and what does it mean to be a missionary disciple? Pallottine Father Frank Donio, director of the Catholic Apostolate Center near Washington and the interim executive director of the Conference of Major Superiors of Men of the United States, tells us about it. We also take a look at a special WMET fundraiser co-sponsored by the Archdiocese of Baltimore and Catholic Review Media.

Nov. 22, 2020 | Creating families through adoption

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 13:00:02 -0400

During National Adoption Month, we speak with two mothers who welcomed children into their families through adoption. Kate Kleintank, director of adult faith formation and director of the middle school catechetical program at St. Paul and Church of the Resurrection in Ellicott City, adopted her son domestically. Rita Buettner, a Catholic Review columnist and director of university communications for Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore, adopted her two sons from China. Learn the joys and struggles that come along with adoption.

Nov. 15, 2020 | Grace Amidst Grief

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 13:00:11 -0400

Lorene Hanley Duquin speaks of grief, both in the many life changes people have experienced from the COVID-19 restrictions and in the death of a loved one, especially as the holidays draw near. She is the author of a book entitled, Grieving With The Help of Your Catholic Faith.

Nov. 8, 2020 | Catholic Health Care

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 13:00:09 -0400

What is it like to take on leadership of a health care system during a global pandemic? This week on Catholic Review Radio, Christopher Gunty talks with two local Catholic health care system CEOs about the missions and values that drive the care they provide. Dr. David Maine of Mercy Health System and Ed Lovern of Ascension St. Agnes are both new to the top job this year, and they talk about how the pandemic has affected the communities they serve.

Nov. 1, 2020 | Saints and Sainthood

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 13:00:14 -0400

On the Solemnity of All Saints, we talk with Father Jesse Bolger, pastor of St. Joseph in Fullerton, about what it means to be a saint and strive for holiness. We also talk about some of the saints and holy people who have served the Archdiocese of Baltimore, including St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, St. John Neumann, Blessed Francis X. Seelos, Blessed Michael McGivney, Blessed Stanley Rother, Father Demetrius Gallitzin and Mother Mary Lange.

Oct. 25, 2020 | Beatification of Fr. Michael McGivney

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 12:00:16 -0400

Venerable Father Michael McGivney, who was ordained in the Baltimore Basilica and founded the Knights of Columbus in the 1880s in Connecticut, will be beatified Oct. 31. This week on Catholic Review Radio, Christopher Gunty talks with Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori, supreme chaplain of the Knights, and Carl Anderson, supreme knight, about the life and legacy of this humble priest.

Oct. 18, 2020 | John-Mark Miravalle speaks about his new book, "How to Feel Good and How Not To"

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 13:23:49 -0400

Author John-Mark Miravalle explores how Catholics look at the morality of recreational drug use and how it differs from using alcohol in moderation. John-Mark speaks of how true leisure isn’t escapism, but entering more fully into reality.

Oct. 11, 2020 | St. John Paul II and the Rosary

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 12:14:52 -0400

St. John Paul II was known for his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and for introducing the Luminous Mysteries to the rosary. In honor of the month of the rosary and the upcoming feast of St. John Paul II, George Matysek speaks with two guests about the Polish pontiff. Father Matthew Buening, chaplain of Catholic campus ministry at Towson University, talks about meeting St. John Paul II on two occasions. And Gretchen Growe, editorial director for periodicals at Our Sunday Visitor, discusses her book, “Praying the Rosary with St. John Paul II.”

Oct. 4, 2020 | Get to know Father Patrick Peyton, 101 Surprising Facts About Mary

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 13:43:48 -0400

Priests can be very good at leading people to Jesus through Mary. Father Patrick Peyton, the internationally renowned “rosary priest” brought people together at huge rallies and crusades. Christopher Gunty talks with Father David Guffey, C.S.C., executive producer of the new documentary, “Pray: The Life of Patrick Peyton,” about the venerable priest’s motivation and challenges. George Matysek also talks with Father David Meconi, S.J., a professor at St. Louis University, about his new book, “101 Surprising Facts about Mary,” in the latest episode of “Catholic Review Radio.”

Sept. 27, 2020 | Bishop James Su Zhimin and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 13:16:47 -0400

Bishop James Su Zhimin spent 40 years as a political prison in China for his opposition to the Communist government. On this week’s episode, we speak with Trinitarian Father Stan De Boe, a human rights and religious liberty advocate, who met Bishop Zhimin and others in the underground Catholic Church in China. We also speak with Catherine O’Donnell, author of a highly-acclaimed biography of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.

Sept. 20, 2020 | New Seminarians

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Twelve new seminarians have begun their studies to become priests for the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Father Steven Roth, vocations director, tells us about this year’s new crop of seminarians and how they will be formed for the priesthood. We also speak with Nathan Turska, a first-year seminarians, and Ben Oursler, who is beginning his second year of study at St. John Paul II Seminary in Washington.

Sept. 13, 2020 | Catholic Charities and the pandemic

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 13:38:45 -0400

Catholic Charities of Baltimore has never missed a day of serving meals at Our Daily Bread in almost 40 years. The coronavirus pandemic forced the agency – the largest nongovernmental service provider in Maryland – to charge the way it serves meals, works with volunteers and serves the poor and elderly. Editor Christopher Gunty talks with Bill McCarthy Jr., Catholic Charities executive director about how the agency has responded to the increased needs during the pandemic and how Catholic Charities continues to fight systemic poverty on the this episode of “Catholic Review Radio.”

Sept. 6, 2020 | Black Catholic Ministry and the summer of 2020

Tue, 08 Sep 2020 13:28:27 -0400

The summer of 2020 has seen racial strife, fueled by the deaths of several blacks at the hands of police. How do Black Catholics view this time in our history, and what is the Archdiocese of Baltimore doing to address systemic racism? Christopher Gunty talks with Sherita Thomas, interim director of the archdiocesan Office of Black Catholic Ministry, about the racism work group in the archdiocese, and what it means when people say “Black lives matter” on the this episode of “Catholic Review Radio.”

August 30, 2020 | Dealing with the stresses of a pandemic

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 12:27:52 -0400

How do families and individuals deal with the stresses brough on by the coronavirus pandemic? What role does spirituality play in addressing the pressures so many people are experiencing these days? Dr. Robert J. Wicks, a clinical psychologist, bestselling author and professor emeritus at Loyola University Maryland, has some advice.

August 23, 2020 | Fatima Movie

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 13:12:19 -0400

The new movie “Fatima,” scheduled for release Aug. 28 in theatres and for on-demand home viewing, looks at the historical events surrounding the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three young shepherd children in Portugal in 1917. The apparitions have since been approved by the Catholic church and two of the visionaries have been canonized saints. The movie looks at the story through the eyes of 10-year-old Lucia, who became a Caremlite nun. This week on “Catholic Review Radio,” Christopher Gunty talks with Dick Lyles, one of the producers of the movie, about the challenges of the project and the blessings that have come from it already.

Aug. 16, 2020 | The Gift and Witness of Faith – How to Deepen Your Faith and Reach Out to Others

Tue, 18 Aug 2020 12:13:43 -0400

Sean Dalton has been immersed in evangelization and discipleship for many years. He shares his witness of faith and how he invites others to an intimate friendship with Jesus Christ and the Catholic Church. Sean speaks about the numerous ways the Augustine Institute is a resource to help one grow in their own faith and how to reach out to others. He also speaks about their newly released videos called, “The Search,” an engaging “Catholic evangelization experience hosted by Chris Stefanick and featuring scientists, astronauts, artists, and fellow searchers who uncover the answers to life’s big questions on happiness, purpose, meaning, and faith. The Search video series has something for all of us, even those who are away from the Church but are still seeking, and those who have never considered faith before.”

Aug. 9, 2020 | The New Evangelization for a Secular Age

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 16:09:47 -0400

George Matysek speaks with Sulpician Father Robert Leavitt, former president-rector of St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore, about his new book, “The Truth Will Make You Free: The New Evangelization for a Secular Age.” Listen Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on WMET 1160 AM and 103.1 FM. The show is also available Sundays on WSJF in Sykesville/Eldersburg at 11:45 a.m. and 4 p.m., and on WVTO 92.7 FM in Southwest Baltimore at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. www.catholicreview.org/cr-radio

August 2, 2020 | The Next Pope: The Office of Peter and a Church in Mission

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 12:49:23 -0400

Author George Weigel talks with “Catholic Review Radio” host Christopher Gunty about his new book, “The Next Pope: The Office of Peter and a Church in Mission,” which discusses the challenges the next Roman pontiff will face. Weigel, distinguished senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, is not handicapping any papal conclave or naming possible successors to Pope Francis, but looking at the qualities he thinks the cardinals should look for when the time comes to elect a pope. Listen to Catholic Review Radio at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on WMET 1160 AM and 103.1 FM. The show is also available Sundays on WSJF in Sykesville/Eldersburg at 11:45 a.m. and 4 p.m., and on WVTO 92.7 FM in Southwest Baltimore at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. www.catholicreview.org/cr-radio

July 26, 2020 | Matt Maher

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 15:42:52 -0400

Award-winning contemporary Catholic musician Matt Maher has gone from parish ministry to full-time performing and helping people worship. Host Christopher Gunty talks with Matt about his life, his music and coping with a global pandemic. Listen July 19 at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on WMET 1160 AM and 103.1 FM. The show is also available Sundays on WSJF in Sykesville/Eldersburg at 11:45 a.m. and 4 p.m., and on WVTO 92.7 FM in Southwest Baltimore at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. www.catholicreview.org/cr-radio

July 19, 2020 | Summer Drive to the Grotto: Outdoor Opportunities of Faith – Post Quarantine

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 13:29:00 -0400

As director of the National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in Emmitsburg, MD, Dawn Walsh shares with host Father Brian Nolan the gift of taking a summer drive and pilgrimage to the Grotto in Emmitsburg. Whether it would be your first time or you are a regular visitor, this scenic and spiritual refuge on the mountain is a place of beauty, prayer and peace. It’s a great post-quarantine opportunity of faith for individuals or the whole family. Dawn shares stories of what draws first-time visitors or regular pilgrims and how it has inspired their journey of faith. Catholic Review Radio airs Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on WMET 1160 AM and 103.1 FM. The show is also available Sundays on WSJF in Sykesville/Eldersburg at 11:45 a.m. and 4 p.m., and on WVTO 92.7 FM in Southwest Baltimore at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

July 12, 2020 | Catholic Relief Services and a Global Pandemic

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 12:26:23 -0400

On the July 12 episode of Catholic Review Radio, Sean Callahan, president and CEO of Baltimore-based Catholic Relief Services, talks with host George Matysek about how the U.S. bishops' international humanitarian relief agency is providing much-needed assistance in developing countries hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic. He also shares how you can fight global hunger. Listen Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on WMET 1160 AM and 103.1 FM. The show is also available Sundays on WSJF in Sykesville/Eldersburg at 11:45 a.m. and 4 p.m., and on WVTO 92.7 FM in Southwest Baltimore at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. https://catholicreview.org/cr-radio/

July 5, 2020 | Inaugural “Catholic Review Radio” with Archbishop Lori

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 12:20:45 -0400

“Catholic Review Radio” joins the Sunday lineup on WMET, the Guadalupe Radio Network. Our guest for the first show is Archbishop William E. Lori, talking about a new auxiliary bishop for Baltimore, race relations and religious freedom. Listen Sunday, July 5, at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on WMET 1160 AM and 103.1 FM. The show is also available Sundays on WSJF 92.7 FM in Sykesville/Eldersburg at 11:45 a.m. and 4 p.m. https://catholicreview.org/cr-radio/