Fr. Michael and Alex from Voice of Reason discuss living a life of service and holiness, imitating holy people, bringing others to the faith, and the impact of Father Chris Zuga's physical struggles on their ministry. They also talk about discovering a transformative church experience during the pandemic and starting their social media journey. The episode concludes with a discussion on the power of prayer and a blessing for the listeners.
Alex fell in love with the Byzantine rite and began sharing his newfound passion, leading to the growth of an online Catholic apologetics ministry.
Serving Father Chris has deepened Alex's understanding of holiness and shown him the transformative power of suffering and service within the body of Christ.
Deep dives
Discovery of Holy Parish
Alex discovered Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico during the pandemic lockdowns. Impressed by its resilience and openness, he fell in love with the Byzantine rite and immediately began sharing his newfound passion with others. The small and familial nature of the church allowed for a deeper sense of connection and service as he brought friends and acquaintances to experience its beauty.
Entry Into Full-Time Apologetics
Encouraged by his producer, Alex ventured into full-time Catholic apologetics, starting an online ministry called Voice of Reason. Initially unsure about the venture, his producer's guidance and technical expertise propelled their growth in a remarkable way. With content on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Patreon, their ministry rapidly gained followers, enabling them to travel and engage with a diverse range of priests and topics.
Serving Father Chris Zugger
Alex shares an invaluable role in serving Father Chris Zugger, a beloved priest who has had a profound impact on his personal and spiritual journey. Father Chris, who has a severe nervous disorder, relies on Alex for support in various tasks and endeavors. Inspired by Father Chris's strength and devotion, Alex considers it an honor and grace to serve him, acknowledging that the experience has deepened his understanding of holiness and strengthened his own spiritual growth.
Holiness in Suffering and Service
Alex reflects on the transformative power of suffering and service within the body of Christ. He recognizes how serving Father Chris and others in need has purified his own desires and brought him closer to a higher state of holiness. Alex believes that the suffering endured by Father Chris and persecuted Christians around the world embodies the sacrificial love for God and the Church. He also emphasizes the importance of sharing the stories of saints, martyrs, and those who have endured persecution, as it illuminates the significance of the faith and strengthens believers' connection to the Church's rich history.
This week we're joined by Alex from Voice of Reason! We recorded this episode live at the Metropolitan Assembly in New Jersey. Fr. Michael and Alex talk about living a life of service and holiness, imitating the holy people around us, and bringing others to the faith.