

Divine Intervention
iHeartPodcasts
Divine Intervention is the untold story of a ragtag band of radical nuns in combat boots, wild-haired priests and their madcap friends who swiftly became accomplished cat-burglars in a hellbent effort to sabotage the Vietnam war. Many went to jail, some betrayed their friends, others fell in love.
Across 10 episodes, host Brendan Patrick Hughes uncovers their audacious illegal acts – scaling walls, picking locks, destroying draft cards, harboring a draft fugitive in a church sanctuary, and trading blows with J. Edgar Hoover.
Across 10 episodes, host Brendan Patrick Hughes uncovers their audacious illegal acts – scaling walls, picking locks, destroying draft cards, harboring a draft fugitive in a church sanctuary, and trading blows with J. Edgar Hoover.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 13, 2025 • 1h 18min
Chapter 10: The Winds, The Tides and Gravity
Patrick and Marianne arrive at the only possible solution. Anne and her father confessor do too. Cookie, Sarah, Paul, Anne, Patrick and Marianne find meaning after the war.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May 6, 2025 • 60min
Chapter 9: The Last Two Words
On the penultimate episode of Divine Intervention, a trial to end all trials goes on for three months. Finally, despite their legal peril, the resistance is able to put the Vietnam War itself on the stand. You can check out Anthony Giacchino’s documentary The Camden 28 for more information on this slice of history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 29, 2025 • 46min
Chapter 8: What Do We Eat? Eagle Meat.
One last giant heist is planned in Camden, New Jersey to prove that Hoover will never crush dissent. It's the biggest, boldest plan any raiders have yet dreamed up. It'll require guts, equipment, know-how, and 28 raiders. You can check out Anthony Giacchino’s documentary The Camden 28 for more information on this slice of history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 22, 2025 • 52min
Chapter 7: The Fight of the Century
Jim Carroll, a prominent activist and writer in the Catholic anti-war movement, joins Keith Forsyth, known for his role in the FBI office break-in, to discuss their daring resistance against J. Edgar Hoover's oppressive tactics. They delve into the high-stakes activism during the Vietnam War, examining how love and personal turmoil fueled their commitment to dissent. The guests also shed light on the repercussions of FBI surveillance and the raw emotions entwined in their brave acts of defiance against governmental overreach.

Apr 15, 2025 • 54min
Chapter 6: The Sanctuary of Paul Couming
Tensions rise as informers infiltrate the anti-war movement, casting shadows over personal convictions. The narrative showcases a vibrant arts festival set against the backdrop of political chaos, revealing emotional turmoil among characters. Themes of betrayal and resolve emerge as trust erodes within the community, while individual sacrifices become evident in their quest for justice. The heartfelt struggle between duty and faith plays out dramatically, highlighting the complexities of resistance amid societal change. Love and friendship are tested as hidden feelings surface.

Apr 8, 2025 • 58min
Chapter 5: The Red Double Doors on Park Street
Anne and Paul face terrifying legal consequences. Father Patrick quickly ascends to a daunting new role and suddenly meets Marianne Woodward, a divorcée with two kids living on welfare in Dorchester. She has just escaped a difficult first marriage in Texas, and neither of them are prepared for what they feel when they meet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apr 1, 2025 • 49min
Chapter 4: The East Coast Conspiracy to Save Lives
Anne Walsh commits her first illegal act in the Bronx, stealing draft files and claiming responsibility. Patrick is stationed after ordination at the Paulist Center in downtown Boston, and immediately sets about turning it upside down. An ambitious raid in Philadelphia draws in a young Cookie Ridolfi.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 25, 2025 • 54min
Chapter 3: The Nun in Combat Boots
Anne Walsh is the combat booted nun who masterminds the Paul Couming sanctuary. Like Father Patrick, she started out as a good Catholic conformist. But when her convent's father confessor begins breaking the law to sabotage the draft, a whole new life of crime opens up for her.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 18, 2025 • 60min
Chapter 2: The Drunken Banjo Player
Father Patrick is the wild-haired radical priest who plans to harbor Paul Couming, but how did he get this way? A very unusual pope, attending seminary during the tumult of the 1960’s, and being a born party animal may have something to do with it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mar 11, 2025 • 39min
Chapter 1: An Explosive Cauldron
Paul Couming, a former member of the underground Catholic resistance to the Vietnam War, shares his compelling journey of defiance. He recounts his refusal to participate in the conflict, which led to a groundbreaking sanctuary initiative in a Boston church. The discussion highlights the fierce activism of radical nuns and priests, the challenges faced by conscientious objectors, and the unique camaraderie among parishioners hiding him from law enforcement. Couming's tale illuminates the intertwining of faith, love, and social justice during tumultuous times.