The podcast delves into the rise of disaffiliation from the Catholic Church and the role of secularized Catholic cultural practices. They play spy trivia for Spy Wednesday. Topics include espionage origins, James Bond evolution, European holiday traditions, Polish Easter Dingus Day, religious trends and identities, Catholic communal celebrations, and the connection between James Bond, Rolex watches, and Vatican espionage.

Topics include St. Patrick's Day, baseball, the Waffle House, and buffets. Workload challenges and previews for paying subscribers are also discussed.

The hosts discuss a surprising email and the upcoming synod on synodality meeting. They explore the history of Masonic hierarchy in Italy post World War II and the role of parish priests in the synodal process. The episode also includes personal anecdotes, internet sleuthing, and the influence of 'The Pillar' during significant meetings.

Discussion with Francis X. Maier about church leadership paradigms, generational shifts in the Catholic Church, 'True Confessions' and faith confessions, unfiltered reactions, memories in the church, and lighthearted exploration of Catholic topics. Also, reflections on Catholic America and the dynamics of institutions like Notre Dame.

A discussion on intense sports team rivalries and regional prejudices including negative opinions about Boston, New York, and California teams. Mention of the Celtics, Bruins, Patriots, and the New York Jets. Brief exchange about New Jersey's association with New York.

Discussion on the aging U.S. episcopate and metropolitan turnovers. Banter about snowmen and church hierarchy vacancies. Speculation on cardinal retirements and replacements. Innovation in language learning with the Ancient Language Institute. Anecdotes on porch life and barbecue. Exploring the historical significance of Cardinal Archbishops and city size comparisons.

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comIn this subscriber-only bonus episode, Ed gives an update on his effort to stop smoking. Are you a paying subscriber? Add these bonus episodes to your feed by visiting pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone and tapping “set up podcast” next to The Pillar Podcas…

The podcast delves into espionage and corruption in the Vatican, highlighting an investigation into illegal data searches and Pope Francis' health. They discuss challenges facing the next conclave and the importance of praying for the pontiff. The episode also explores the historical ties between the Ku Klux Klan and Freemasons in Denver and the educational approach at St. Bernard's School of Theology.

Exploring the historical and contemporary dynamics of the conclave process and reflecting on the significance of election rules in shaping outcomes

The podcast delves into a controversial essay critiquing Pope Francis' pontificate, Vatican's financial woes, papal authority debates, Roman Curia dysfunction, dialogue among Cardinals, ecclesiology diversity, and a call for bishop respect and conclave reform.