The hosts discuss the cultural influence of Taylor Swift and the significance of Elon Musk's achievements with SpaceX and Tesla. They also explore the impact of Twitter on public policy and reflect on the lack of empathy in society. The podcast includes a discussion on the intellectual voice of Bishop Daniel Flores and ranking Christmas songs.
Father Hans Zollner SJ has exerted significant influence in 2023, raising issues and making calls for action on abuse and neglect within the Church.
Father John Paul Kimes has become an advisor to American bishops on abuse cases and will shape how personnel issues are handled in the Church.
Cardinal Pierre's appointment as a cardinal provides a counterbalance to Cardinal Sippich, offering a stronger voice for the United States in ecclesiastical matters in Rome.
Deep dives
Professional Summary
Father Hans Zollner SJ, former member of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, has exerted significant influence in 2023, raising pertinent issues and making important calls for action on abuse and neglect within the Church.
Unsung Ecclesial Figure
Father John Paul Kimes, Associate Professor of the Practice at Notre Dame School of Law, has quietly become an advisor to many American bishops on cases related to abuse and the implementation of new canonical protocols. His work will likely shape how personnel issues are handled in the Church for years to come.
Journalist, Intellectual Commentator or Writer
Given the lack of notable challenges in this category, the title remains vacant.
Cardinal Pierre's role in the United States
Cardinal Pierre's appointment as a cardinal in the United States is highlighted, emphasizing his role in the country and his extended tenure beyond the customary retirement age. The podcast suggests that Pope Francis wanted Pierre to stay in his position due to the lack of a likely successor. While acknowledging that Pierre has earned the red hat by maintaining his health and stability, the podcast questions the extent of his influence and emphasizes his role as a diplomatic figure rather than a transformative leader.
A Counterbalance to the American Ecclesial Affairs
The podcast discusses how Cardinal Pierre's promotion to cardinal provides a counterbalance to the influence of Cardinal Sippich, offering a stronger voice for the United States in ecclesiastical matters in Rome. While acknowledging that Pierre's star has risen, the podcast challenges the notion of his significant influence, suggesting that his impact is limited to being an important artery of communication between the United States and Rome amidst the escalating tension between the US bishops and the Holy See.
Drawing from Time Magazine’s qualifications for 'Person of the Year,' JD and Ed offer their own nominations for ecclesiastic people of the year.
Then, they rank Christmas songs.
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This episode of The Pillar Podcast is sponsored by the University of Dallas, The Catholic University for Independent Thinkers. UD invites you to embark on The Quest, a documentary-style video series about discovering one’s purpose and living with courage.