The Pillar Podcast

JD Flynn and Ed Condon open with playful banter about life as podcasters and content creators before turning to a debate over a coaching decision. This free preview offers a taste of the bonus conversation, with more available to paying subscribers.

Could an AI convincingly channel Fulton Sheen, or would it create a theological digital zombie? JD Flynn and Ed Condon examine the proposal, Father Justin’s controversial confession simulation, and the difference between a searchable archive and an artificial persona. They also explore Detroit’s liturgical restrictions, sweeping parish reorganizations, priestly procedural rights, and the tension between diocesan management and vibrant local communities.

JD Flynn and Ed Condon trade thoughts on wrestling before turning to the surprising role of musical numbers in papal writing. Their conversation lands on why Fiddler on the Roof gets the tone just right, with a brief note on accessing more subscriber-only bonus content.

A recap of the Canon Law Society gathering explores church closures, profanation, assisted suicide, and sacramental ministry. The discussion then turns to Pope Leo XIV’s lung cancer diagnosis, its potential impact on travel and governance, and the meaning of his recent appointments. Finally, Bishop Erik Varden’s essay on Amoris Laetitia receives a thoughtful examination.

James Martin, a Jesuit priest, author, and America editor, discusses his ministry with LGBTQ Catholics, his years serving refugees and marginalized communities, and the art of building bridges through friendship and presence. He reflects on Catholic sexual ethics, blessings, conscience, mercy, accountability, prayer, and his memoir Work in Progress, then takes on a rapid-fire “Bridges: Yes or No?” game.

A lively debate explores what Catholic schools should truly prioritize: maximizing academic instruction, cultivating wisdom, and creating a trusted faith-centered community. The conversation weighs competing visions of education and the choices shaping Catholic schooling today.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin’s stunning snub reveals tensions within the Vatican. The conversation examines Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle’s adaptability, AI’s challenge to human uniqueness, and Pope Leo XIV’s effort to recast synodality as conversation. It also explores a curious committee lineup and what the meeting could signal for future teaching on marriage and family.

JD Flynn and Ed Condon swap stories from travels through St. Louis and Peoria, including Ed’s legendary streak of bad luck on the road. A lighthearted detour filled with mishaps, hats, and behind-the-scenes banter.

JD Flynn and Ed Condon examine a Vatican commission’s proposals to reshape canon law, including expanded lay governance and a theology they say goes beyond Vatican II. They discuss why Pope Leo XIV may need to respond, his upcoming Amoris laetitia gathering, and the politics behind its invitees. They also explore AI-generated Vatican language, human artistry, embryo adoption, and boundaries for AI in ministry.

Bishop Albert Wack, CSC, leads the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee and brings deep experience in pastoral and prison ministry. He shares how Scripture, prayer, the Eucharist, and faithful presence shape life behind bars. They explore conversion, sacramental access, deacons’ roles, and whether prison ministry belongs in every parish or a dedicated ordinariate.