Gaudiumetspes22 podcast

I posted this yesterday but needed to make some corrections.  I would also like to add the following comment: Many of the opinions expressed in this video are controversial.  But in the interests of open dialogue I offer Gavin Ashenden's views for consideration.  All are free to comment and to disagree. Debate is welcome. I do not agree with everything he says in this video.  I agree with most of it but issues of fact (such as the rate of immigration and so forth) I will leave to others to adjudicate.  I do disagree however, that charges of "racism" is not really a valid thing worthy of consideration on the shaky grounds that concepts of race, from a biological perspective, are nebulous.  I think racism is very real if one defines racism broadly as the bigoted oppression of one group of people by another based on purely epiphenomenal factors like skin color or facial morphology. I am also not so certain that Tommy Robinson is a morally upright person.  To be sure, I think Gavin is very circumspect in this as well. Next week I will be interviewing another guest on this same topic from the UK who will offer a different perspective.  This is in no way a criticism of Gavin.  I loved having him on the podcast and I think he is intelligent and articulate.  I thank him for taking the time to come on the show.  His voice should be heard.

In this engaging conversation, Matthew Minerd, Professor of Philosophy and Moral Theology, shares insights on the richness of Christmas traditions and their evolution in modern society. He reflects on the cultural identities of Pennsylvania and the legacy of Pope John Paul II, discussing the complexities of Eastern-Western Catholic relations. The duo tackles the challenges of modernism on faith and revelation, emphasizing the importance of tradition in fostering genuine connections. They also explore how technology affects the spread of Christianity, especially in today's digital age.

In this engaging conversation, Caitlin Smith Gilson, a philosophy professor with expertise in theology and poetry, joins Larry Chapp and Rodney Howsare to tackle the state of Catholic higher education. They discuss troubling faculty firings tied to identity politics and the struggle for Catholic universities to maintain their identity amid modern cultural shifts. The trio delves into the balance of freedom and truth in academia, the transformative power of mentorship, and the need to revive passion and beauty in educational settings.

Thomas Harmon, a theology professor at the University of St. Thomas and contributor to Word on Fire, dives deep into St. Augustine's profound theology. He discusses the nuances of Augustine's views on universal salvation and baptism, revealing how they challenge common misconceptions. Harmon contrasts Augustine's vision of divine love versus self-love and explores the complexities of sin and grace in the context of church membership. The conversation also emphasizes the relevance of Augustine's thoughts for contemporary societal challenges.

David C. Schindler, a prominent Professor of metaphysics and anthropology, dives into the metaphysics and theology of gift inspired by John Paul II’s writings. He passionately discusses the 'law of the gift,' emphasizing self-gift in relationships and its transformative power, especially in marriage. Schindler unpacks John Paul II’s legacy, the complexities of personhood, and the interplay of will and desire in shaping human identity. With humor and insight, he challenges misconceptions in philosophy, exploring love as a permanent gift in our lives.

Pastor Paul VanderKlay, a renowned voice in the Christian Reformed Church known for his insightful YouTube content, engages with Larry Chapp on pivotal themes like love amidst racism and personal narratives in ministry. They explore the complexities of Calvinist identity and the shift from Catholicism to evangelicalism. VanderKlay critiques conventional political engagement, advocating for a deeper faith-rooted hope. Their conversation dives into the intricate ties between faith and governance and emphasizes the essential role of compassion in addressing societal challenges.