The Pillar Podcast

JD Flynn, a Catholic journalist known for his insightful commentary, takes on the role of 'Coach Flynn' as he shares his journey into coaching youth sports. He reflects on his basketball team’s recent triumph and the unexpected joys of stepping into a coaching role with little experience. JD cleverly contrasts his passion for coaching baseball with the new challenges of basketball, offering a humorous take on both sports. His personal anecdotes provide a heartwarming look at youth coaching and the valuable lessons learned on and off the field.

Get ready for a deep dive into the anticipated beatification of Archbishop Fulton Sheen! The hosts explore his unique influence as a media evangelist and the pathway that delayed his canonization. They also engage in a lighthearted trivia game about unusual gifts given to U.S. presidents, sharing quirky anecdotes along the way. From historical tidbits about Sheen to trivia about rollerblades and pandas, this discussion balances serious topics with fun insights, making for an engaging and informative listen!

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD goes down a linguistic rabbit hole.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at kolivera@pillarcatholic.com

JD and Ed dive into the recent consistory in Rome, discussing the balance between the sanctity of the Church and the media's sensationalism. They touch on Cardinal Dolan's call to embrace Christmas through Epiphany and the importance of quieter, more ordinary consistories for fostering genuine conversation. The hosts celebrate the beauty of 'boring' normalcy in the Church, emphasizing love and unity as vital to its health. Their reflections encourage continued fraternal gatherings free from media drama.

In this engaging conversation with JD Flynn, Edgar Beltrán, a Venezuelan journalist and The Pillar's Rome correspondent, dives deep into Venezuela's tumultuous political landscape. He reflects on the nation's democratic roots before Chávez, the dramatic shifts during his tenure, and Maduro's oppressive regime. Edgar shares his personal experiences with scarcity and protests, while exploring the Church's role in advocating for human dignity amidst crisis. From the impact of oil booms to the potential for reconciliation, this discussion sheds light on a complex and resilient nation.

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.