The Pillar Podcast

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.

A lively game called 'Bishop or Bot?' captivates an audience in Baltimore. Participants must distinguish between tweets from bishops and AI, leading to some surprising reveals. From philosophical discourses invoking Augustine to playful tweets about Halloween, the challenge keeps everyone on their toes. The humor escalates as dog photos and serious critiques about bishops’ decisions emerge. The atmosphere is both festive and thought-provoking, fostering spirited discussion among players who try to outsmart the AI.

JD and Ed dive into the highlights from the U.S. bishops’ fall meeting in Baltimore, discussing positive votes and Bishop Flores' rise as vice president. They explore revisions to Ethical and Religious Directives, Cardinal Pierre's defense of Vatican II, and Archbishop Broglio's strong stance on unity. Light-hearted games keep the atmosphere lively, including guessing how many times Cardinal Pierre mentioned Pope Francis. With financial issues and new leadership on the horizon, the future of the U.S. bishops' conference is on everyone's mind.

Join JD Flynn and Ed Condon as they dive into the fascinating world of the USCCB presidential election. They break down the election rules, discussing the majorities needed and the intricate voting procedures. Ed introduces the nine bishops vying for the top spot, giving you a glimpse into the future leadership of the U.S. Catholic Church. Get ready for insightful analysis on this crucial topic!

JD and Ed dive into the upcoming U.S. bishops' meeting, dishing on election strategies and candidate eligibility. They share stories of JD's surprising detention at a Chicago event and Cardinal Cupich's COVID response. The duo breaks down the 'horse race' for committee leadership spots, analyzing key candidates for roles in Canonical Affairs, Evangelization, and Protection of Children and Young People. With lively debates on charisma versus expertise, they keep the stakes high in the world of Catholic leadership.