

Petersboat
R. Ketcham
Thoughts about God and the meaning of life clothed in language.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 15, 2025 • 11min
The Monday After | The Necessary Evil of Handing Over the Son
Treatments like chemotherapy, for example, are in some ways similar to Christ's death on the cross; they are necessary evils; one heals cancer, the other sin. In this episode, I argue that political debate is also a necessary evil, because we need laws now to intervene where once (before the fall of man) there was the bond of love. I also propose that the necessary evil of the handing over of Tyler Robinson by his parents may prove to be the most unlikely source of healing for those wounded by the loss of Charlie Kirk. I end with a word of hope that young people (especially those on college campuses) will find places to argue that best facilitate an encounter with love, which alone fulfills the Law.

Sep 8, 2025 • 18min
The Monday After | Always First Death
Dealing with God will always mean dying to that part of us that resists seeing things from his perspective.

Sep 2, 2025 • 14min
The Monday After | Paradox or Contradiction
This is the first episode of a new segment called, "The Monday After," offering a series of reflections following the Sunday Mass.

Apr 14, 2022 • 29min
He Leadeth Me | Chapter 20 | Humanity | Epilogue
The journey of Father Walter Ciszek through Soviet prisons is both harrowing and enlightening. Listeners hear about the struggles of faith under communism, where spiritual longing clashes with ideology. Engaging discussions reveal the deeper meanings of life and the resilience found in adversity. The simplicity yet profound nature of faith comes to light, encouraging a personal connection with God. Ultimately, the narrative underscores the transformative power of belief amidst life's complexities.

Apr 13, 2022 • 16min
He Leadeth Me | Chapter 19 | Faith
Father Walter Ciszek, an American Jesuit who survived 23 years in Soviet prisons, shares profound insights from his book, "He Leadeth Me." He reflects on his unexpected journey to priesthood amidst doubt and the powerful faith of his community. Ciszek emphasizes the crucial link between daily prayer and faith, urging listeners to find God in their lives. He also discusses the transformative power of faith in overcoming life’s challenges, highlighting resilience against adversity while relying on divine providence.

Apr 12, 2022 • 18min
He Leadeth Me | Chapter 18 | Humility
Father Walter Ciszek, an American Jesuit who survived 23 years in Soviet prisons, shares profound insights from his experiences in the lead-up to Easter. He discusses the challenges of practicing humility and obedience under intense adversity. Reflecting on Christ's teachings, Ciszek emphasizes self-reflection and the importance of acknowledging God's will in our lives. He warns against pride and self-reliance, offering lessons in humility that resonate deeply, especially during this Lenten season.

Apr 10, 2022 • 20min
He Leadeth Me | Chapter 17 | The Kingdom of God
Father Walter Ciszek, an American Jesuit priest and author who endured 23 years in Soviet prisons, shares profound insights on faith and resilience in the face of oppression. He discusses the struggles of Christians under a repressive regime, highlighting their unwavering commitment despite limited resources. Ciszek explores the beauty of ecumenism among persecuted believers, illustrating how faith thrived in adversity. He emphasizes the need for personal conversion and acceptance of divine grace as integral to the Kingdom of God.

Apr 8, 2022 • 18min
He Leadeth Me | Chapter 16 | Freedom
In this profound discussion, Father Walter Ciszek, an American Jesuit priest who endured 23 years in Soviet prisons, shares insights from his book, He Leadeth Me. He explores the psychological struggles of inmates and the resilience that survives even in captivity. The conversation dives into the paradox of freedom, highlighting how true liberation comes from embracing divine will, and illuminating the peace found in surrendering to God’s guidance. His reflections offer deep spiritual lessons for anyone seeking inner freedom.

Mar 31, 2022 • 20min
He Leadeth Me | Chapter 15 | The Fear of Death
Father Walter Ciszek, an American Jesuit priest with a harrowing 23-year history in Soviet prisons, shares profound insights on faith and mortality. He recounts a chilling brush with execution, highlighting the human instinct to fear death despite an initial acceptance. Through examining death in a communist society, Ciszek emphasizes the importance of memory and community amidst loss. He contrasts superficial beliefs with genuine convictions about eternal life, depicting death as a joyful homecoming with God, providing comfort against existential dread.

Mar 29, 2022 • 20min
He Leadeth Me | Chapter 14 | Retreats
Join Father Walter Ciszek, an American Jesuit priest who survived 23 years in Soviet prisons, as he shares his profound journey in faith and resilience. He recounts the brutal realities of prison life, emphasizing how spiritual sustenance became his anchor amid adversity. Discover how he found meaning through daily sacrifices, transforming his struggles into acts of devotion. His experiences not only illuminate the power of hope but also reflect on the deep connection between suffering and spiritual growth.