American Catholic History

Explore the brilliance of Frank Capra, a director celebrated for his Catholic-themed films. He won three Oscars and crafted timeless classics like 'It's a Wonderful Life,' a movie that embodies the triumph of good over adversity. Delve into his Sicilian immigrant roots and how they shaped his storytelling, particularly during World War II. Discover the film's enduring legacy and behind-the-scenes tales, revealing a poignant message of hope that resonates deeply in American culture, especially during the Christmas season.

In 1846, eight years before the dogma of the Immaculate Conception was solemnly defined by Pope Pius IX, the bishops of the United States declared Mary under the title of the Immaculate Conception to be the Patroness of the United States of America. Since the earliest days of the Church, Catholics have believed that Mary was preserved by God from Original Sin from the moment of her conception. This devotion has an early history in the Americas as well — when Christopher Columbus came over, his flagship was named in honor of the Immaculate Conception - Santa María de la Inmaculada Concepción. By the middle of the 19th century, the Church was really emerging as a major force in the life of America, and her bishops were gaining greater notice and respect around the world. Two prominent American prelates, Archbishop Francis Kenrick of Baltimore and Bishop John Hughes of New York, both had great devotions to Our Lady. Though they were diametrically opposed in temperament and episcopal style, both pushed for the American bishops to name the Immaculate Conception the Patroness of the United States at the Sixth Provincial Council of Baltimore in 1846. They were successful. Then both were present in Rome eight years later when Pope Pius IX declared the dogma. In fact, the American decision to name the Immaculate Conception as Patroness is believed to have been a factor in Pius IX's decision to declare the dogma. Further, Archbishop Kenrick, who was an internationally respected theologian at the time, aided Pius IX in formulating the rationale and the declaration. Since that time, many U.S. cathedrals and parish churches, plus the massive shrine in Washington, DC, have been dedicated in honor of the Immaculate Conception. O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us!

Discover the fascinating life of Maria von Trapp, from her challenging childhood and journey to Catholicism to her role as a stepmother and singer. Uncover the realities of the Trapp family's escape from the Nazis, which starkly contrast Hollywood's portrayal. Explore their rise as performers in the U.S. and the lasting impact of their music. The podcast also touches on Maria's later years, including her missionary work and legacy, showcasing how love, faith, and community shaped their family's story.

In 1621, the Calvinist Puritan Pilgrims shared a harvest meal with the largely pagan Native Americans whom they befriended on the coast of New England. This first Thanksgiving meal was only possible because of the actions of Franciscan friars in Spain, and the Patuxet brave Squanto whom they had saved from slavery, educated in the Catholic faith, baptized, and set on his way to return to the New World. Squanto returned to his native village only to find his entire tribe wiped out by an epidemic. The very next year, the Pilgrims landed nearby, found the empty village, and selected that site to establish the Plymouth Colony. Squanto, at the prompting of another native who had some mastery of English, named Samoset, made contact with the Pilgrims. Squanto's knowledge of English and of European ways made him indispensable to the Pilgrims that first year. The Pilgrims had lost nearly half their numbers due to illness when they were forced to remain on the Mayflower for the entire winter of 1620-21. When they came ashore they faced stiff odds, especially since the seeds they brought with them from northern Europe didn't grow well in the soil and climate of New England. Also, not all Native tribes were eager to welcome these settlers. Without Squanto's intervention in negotiating peace, plus some lessons in local farming and how to tread eels, the Pilgrims may not have survived that first year. And Squanto would not have been in a position to help in this way without the intervention of the anti-slavery Catholic Franciscans of Spain. 

Discover the fascinating story of Adele Brise, a Belgian immigrant inspired by the Blessed Mother to teach children in 19th-century Wisconsin. Explore her struggles against church authorities as she establishes a community devoted to faith and education. Learn about the miraculous survival of the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help during the catastrophic Peshtigo Fire in 1871. The journey of recognition for this apparition unfolds, culminating in its official acknowledgement by the Church, highlighting faith's enduring power amidst adversity.

In January 1634, the ships Ark and Dove landed in Maryland, marking the establishment of a safe haven for Catholics in America. George Calvert's vision for a colony turned into reality under his son Cecil's leadership, despite challenges at sea. The settlers formed initial bonds with Native American tribes, particularly the Yolkamako, fostering goodwill. The founding of St. Mary City became a pivotal moment, and the narrative reflects on the unique influences that shaped Maryland's identity and its Catholic heritage.

Discover how the Knights of Columbus transformed the lives of soldiers during World War I. Through their morale-boosting huts, they provided essential supplies and a comforting escape from the battlefield. Learn about their impressive $14 million fundraising campaign and the impact of their relentless support for troops. Their dedication even led to a legacy that shaped future military support organizations. Featuring key figures and touching stories, this narrative highlights their profound sacrifices and contributions during turbulent times.

Fr. Francis Sampson was the “paratrooper padre.” He parachuted into Normandy, behind enemy lines, on D-Day, June 6, 1944, along with more than 13,000 other Allied paratroopers. He also was directly involved in the episode that inspired Steven Spielberg’s epic war drama Saving Private Ryan. He hadn’t planned on being a paratrooper when he joined the Army chaplain corps and the Archdiocese for Military Services, but his naiveté about what he had signed up for was a good thing for his men. He was dedicated to their well-being, spiritually and physically. On D-Day, he stayed behind at an aid station in a French village when the rest of the paratroopers he was with moved along to rendezvous with the larger unit. The aid station had 14 men who couldn’t be moved. When the Germans came he was put up against a wall and nearly shot, but a German sergeant recognized he was a priest and his life was spared. Once the Americans retook the village, he and the survivors were evacuated. Eventually he was captured and spent the last few months as a prisoner of war in Germany. After World War II ended, he served in Korea, and then stateside as a chaplain, and eventually the chief of all Army chaplains, before retiring in 1971.

Discover the inspiring life of Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini, the first American saint, who rose from fragile beginnings in Italy to significantly impact the lives of Italian immigrants in America. Despite facing health issues and resistance from local clergy, she founded 67 schools, hospitals, and orphanages. The podcast delves into the struggles of 19th-century Italian immigrants and Cabrini's unwavering faith and tenacity as she fought for their rights and dignity. Her legacy of service continues to inspire future generations.

Edgar Allan Poe is one of the most important early American wrters. He is known for horror, the macabre, suspense, and other dark themes. Poe was important in the development of science fiction and he invented the detective novel. But what is less well-known is his interesting knowledge of and interest in Catholicism. In an age where typical Protestants either wouldn’t have an idea of what Catholics actually believe, or wouldn’t be interested in presenting Catholicism in an honest light, Poe did both. And in one short story he even wrote a rather lovely poem that amounts to a prayer to the Blessed Mother. The poem, known as “Hymn,” invokes the aid of the Blessed Mother and has strong intercessory language. Later in his life, Poe lived in a cottage near the campus of St. John College at Fordham (known today as Fordham University) where he came to know and spend much time with the Jesuits who ran that school. He died in unfortunate and mysterious circumstances in 1849 at just 40 years old.