
Sed Contra: A Podcast of Catholic Theology
A podcast featuring some of the founding members of The Sacra Doctrina Project discussing theological questions with other academic theologians and philosophers. The podcast takes place in a quaestiones disputatae style, encouraging lively and charitable debate. Listen to the most recent episode below.
Latest episodes

Mar 7, 2024 • 1h 12min
The Quest for the Historical St. Thomas Aquinas
Exploring the quest to uncover the historical perspective of St. Thomas Aquinas, the impact of Aquinas on theology, evolution of theological study post-World War II, neglected perspectives of the late 19th and early 20th century, transformative power of a book on the Beatitudes, navigating moral uncertainties through historical context, and the influence of Thomism on moral theology and personal transformation.

Jan 11, 2024 • 1h 2min
The Life and Work of Bl. Columba Marmion, OSB
Listen as the hosts discuss the life and work of Bl. Columba Marmion, OSB, including his background and publications on spirituality. They explore the mysteries of Christ's life, the influence of the French school, the concept of Christ as the ideal priest, the grace of the sacrament of priesthood, the importance of scripture in meditation, and the significance of theosis and divine adoption in the Christian life.

Dec 14, 2023 • 1h 5min
Maximus the Confessor and Why Catholics Should Care about Him
Dr. Kevin Clarke, Dr. Joseph Terry, and Dr. John Solheid discuss Maximus the Confessor and why Catholics should be familiar with his life and work. They explore Maximus's biography and controversies, his canonical status, and his writings on Christ's agony. They also discuss the fallenness of the will and Maximus's teachings on the incarnation and creation.

Nov 14, 2023 • 1h 7min
NFP and the Supposed Contraceptive Mentality
Dr. Matthew Dugandzic and the hosts discuss NFP, contraception, and the contraceptive mentality. They explore the difference between contraception and NFP, the primary and secondary ends of marriage, seeking pleasure in the conjugal act, and the perspectives of celibate theologians on women and sexual morality. They also express gratitude towards Pope Paul VI and Pope John Paul II for their teachings on marriage.

Oct 12, 2023 • 1h 4min
Differences in Eucharistic Piety Among Roman and Byzantine Catholics
Dr. Matthew Dugandzic, Dr. Danny Garland, and Dr. Ryan Brady discuss differences in Eucharistic piety among Roman and Byzantine Catholics, including postures during liturgy, consecration of bread, methods of receiving body and blood, historical differences in the use of bread, emphasis on icons in Byzantine churches, contrasting approaches to Eucharistic adoration, role and symbolism of deacons, mystery versus understanding of the sacrament, eucharistic adoration, impact of Vatican II on Eastern Catholics, and importance of embracing traditions and unity within Catholic Church.

Sep 15, 2023 • 58min
Artificial Intelligence
Exploration of the philosophical and ethical implications of AI, including its potential impact on ancient manuscripts and the labor industry. Discussion on the trustworthiness of non-conscious systems and the negative consequences of algorithms. Explores hope in response to secularization and the importance of union with God. Reflections on the Christian perspective on AI and the limitations of AI art.

Aug 17, 2023 • 1h 19min
Laudato si'
Experts in environmental science, ethics, sustainability, and Catholic social teaching discuss Pope Francis's encyclical Laudato si'. Topics covered include critiques of modern philosophies contributing to climate change, the paradox of excessive technological advancement, the hidden nature of relationships and desire for transparency, transparency and awareness impacting change, challenges in addressing environmental problems, transitioning to monasteries and family farms, and prioritizing spiritual health over temporal welfare.

Jul 20, 2023 • 1h 17min
Veritatis Splendor at 30
Music attribution: "Bach - Brandenburg Concerto No 3, 3 allegro" by Advent Chamber Orchestra. Acquired here. Edited for length. Used under Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 United States License.

Jul 1, 2023 • 39min
Further Musings on Universalism
Music attribution: "Bach - Brandenburg Concerto No 3, 3 allegro" by Advent Chamber Orchestra. Acquired here. Edited for length. Used under Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 United States License.

May 12, 2023 • 41min
The Ascension
Thomas Davenport, OP, "Locating Heaven: Modern Science and the Place of Christ's Glorified Body," Nova et Vetera 20, no. 1 (Winter 2023): 93–114: https://stpaulcenter.com/05-nv-21-1-davenport/ Music attribution: "Bach - Brandenburg Concerto No 3, 3 allegro" by Advent Chamber Orchestra. Acquired here. Edited for length. Used under Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 United States License.