The Pillar Podcast

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comThis is the west.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 at kolivera@pillarcatholic.com

This is a free bonus episode of The Pillar Podcast. Subscribe to The Pillar today to access every bonus episode of The Pillar Podcast. What does it mean to be a Christian in America right now?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 at kolivera@pillarcatholic.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

Ed talks about reactions to Pope Leo XIV’s suppression of two dioceses and creation of a new diocese in mainland China. Then, the Traditional Latin Mass will be celebrated next month on the main altar of St. Peter’s Basilica. JD and Ed talk about what the move could signify for future application of Traditionis custodes. Ed plays a round of video game “Good, better, best."This episode is sponsored by Decided Excellence Catholic Media, helping Catholics and Catholic parishes start their own magazines to communicate and evangelize.Publish your own Catholic magazine today!To learn more, visit decidedexcellence.com/join-our-team/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

Ed is joined this week by Pillar columnist Stephen White to look ahead to this weekend’s canonizations of Bls. Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis. They also talk about examples of integrated masculinity and the impact of wonder. This episode is sponsored by Pillar listener Heath."Lesly, happy anniversary (and birthday), from Heath." This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This episode may not be suitable for children.JD and Ed react to the news out of Minneapolis this week, reflect on the lasting effects on the community, and ask what comes next?Then— by popular demand— JD and Ed assess the upcoming nuptials of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce.This episode is sponsored by Lovecrypt.net, an experimental electronic music label— consecrated to the Sacred Heart— with over 100 albums in its catalog.Visit Lovecrypt.net and use the code PILLAR to get 90% off any purchase.-Photo: Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Courtesy photo/Facebook.Outro music: "Once a Henchmouse” by Earthen Vessel This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

JD and Ed dive deep into their draft picks, focusing on the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. They examine Cardinal Fernandez's leadership and the challenges it presents for the current Pope. The discussion teems with insights about expectations and governance within the Church. Exclusive subscriber content adds an intriguing layer for those in the know. It's a candid look at the dynamics shaping faith leadership today.

The hosts delve into potential changes within the Roman Curia, speculating on the selection of key church leaders. They discuss the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and its theological implications. Engaging in a light-hearted draft-style analysis, they share their picks for various prefect positions. The conversation touches on the intersection of American political ideals and faith, while reflecting on the evolving role of leadership in the Church. Humor blends with serious insights on cultural influences and governance.

The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into the intense heatwave hitting Rome. They explore how cultural perspectives shape reactions to the sweltering temperatures. Notable figures, including the Pope, are adapting to the extreme conditions. There's a conversation about skepticism surrounding temperature reporting and the unique challenges posed by humidity in Italy. Listeners gain insight into the interplay between climate and culture, making this an engaging exploration of a relevant topic.

Edgar Beltrán, Rome correspondent for The Pillar and expert on Vatican affairs, sheds light on the troubling decline of Catholic identity in the U.S. He discusses the growing influence of Protestantism in Latin America and the vital role of community in faith retention. Edgar also shares insights into Pope Leo's first 100 days, his calm and measured governance, and expectations for upcoming curial appointments. The conversation beautifully ties Catholic cultural practices to modern evangelization efforts, highlighting the dynamic challenges faced by the Church today.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comAre there Mormon liturgical wars? Then, baseball.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 at kolivera@pillarcatholic.com