The Pillar Podcast

JD and Ed engage in a lively debate over the Christmas credentials of Wham!'s iconic tune. They share their favorite and least favorite Christmas songs, revealing surprising pet peeves. The discussion takes a sharp turn as Ed critiques 'Mary, Did You Know?' calling it clichéd and 'really stupid.' The hosts blend humor and heartfelt opinions, making for a festive and entertaining conversation.

The new archbishop of New York sparks spirited discussion as JD and Ed critique media narratives surrounding his appointment. They delve into the complexities of episcopal roles and dissect misconceptions about his political stance. The hosts celebrate Hicks's administrative strengths and emphasize the importance of evangelization over cultural small talk. They also reflect on the evolving expectations of bishops' public personas. Tune in for a blend of insightful commentary and festive cheer!

Explore the unique custom where married Venezuelan women use 'De' with their husband's surname. Edgar Beltran shares his adventurous journey of moving to Rome and the whirlwind of settling in. The conversation dives into cultural nuances and the intriguing experiences from the Pillar pilgrimage. For a taste of international flair mixed with personal stories, tune in for this delightful discussion!

Edgar Beltrán, a Rome correspondent and journalist specializing in Latin America and the Vatican, joins the conversation to discuss the challenging conditions for Cardinal Porras in Venezuela, including his recent detention at an airport. The talk also delves into the implications of Porras's Vatican passport and how Maduro's regime aims to silence opposition voices. Additionally, they analyze the intricacies of U.S. pressures on Venezuela amidst the escalating political climate, revealing the delicate interplay between diplomacy and authoritarianism.

A captivating exploration of relics and resurrection kicks off the discussion, sparked by a visit to a crypt in Rome. The Vatican commission's controversial stance against female deacons raises questions about women's roles in the Church. The hosts debate historical deaconesses versus current institutional needs, advocating for practical recognition of women's ministries. Amidst lighthearted moments in a rapid-fire game, they reflect on clericalism and cultural barriers, suggesting non-ordained solutions for empowering women in faith.

Get ready for an exciting live show in Rome! The host shares all the thrilling details about the Jubilee Roman extravaganza happening on December 4th at 8 p.m. at the Drunken Ship Pub. It's a unique chance to engage with fellow fans since the event is in-person only, ensuring a lively atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable gathering—it promises to be a highlight of the Jubilee Year!

The discussion kicks off with Pope Leo XIV's apostolic letter on ecumenism, sparking a deep dive into the complex relationship between the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. Topics like the historical councils, intra-Orthodox divisions, and the influence of nationalism on faith are brilliantly dissected. The hosts also lighten the mood with Thanksgiving games, ranking seasonal dishes and sharing personal anecdotes, offering a delightful mix of theology and holiday cheer.

Jennifer Martin, the Director of the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture at Notre Dame, shares insights about fostering Catholic tradition and community despite disagreements. She highlights the center's diverse programs aimed at student formation and the culture of life. JD and Ed discuss the importance of tradition as a personal transmission and reflect on Bishop Flores’s approach to evangelization through love. Lucy Spence, from the Irish Rover, adds to the conversation about Notre Dame’s commitment to Catholic identity amidst academic challenges.

The hosts delve into a surprising moment with Pope Leo XIV, discussing what he left unsaid during a virtual meeting with young people. They explore Cardinal Matteo Zuppi's recent address to the Italian bishops' conference, reflecting on its significance. Amidst light-hearted banter about tracksuits and wardrobe choices, they keep the conversation engaging and relatable, offering listeners a mix of humor and insight.

A virtual chat with Pope Leo XIV ignites a discussion on the evolving Catholic relationship with leadership. The hosts share insights on the recent jubilee year and its impact on pilgrim visits. They delve into the delicate balance of staged papal events and spontaneous Q&A, emphasizing the need for deeper church teachings amid modern social media challenges. Meanwhile, a critical report reveals the collapse of a significant Catholic pension fund, leaving many retirees uncertain and dioceses financially strained. Potential remedies and the repercussions of this crisis are explored.