Listener Karen from Illinois wrote in asking what a plenary indulgence is, and Patrick did not disappoint.      So, what is an indulgence anyway?   Patrick breaks it down like this:   Sin is forgiven in confession, but its effects still linger (like spiritual scars).   Jesus paid the penalty for sin once and for all, but we still need to heal the damage done (to us, others, and the world).   Imagine sin is like breaking a window. Confession = forgiveness. But... someone still has to fix the window.     The indulgence.   The Church, using the authority Jesus gave her ("whatever you bind on Earth..."), can apply the spiritual riches of Jesus and the saints to help wipe away the lingering effects of sin. This is what indulgences are all about.   Partial Indulgence = Some of that damage is repaired.     Plenary Indulgence = All the effects of sin are wiped clean.      How to learn more?   Patrick recommends:   The Handbook of Indulgences: Norms and Grants     Why does this even matter?   Because... nothing unclean can enter Heaven (Revelation 21:27). Indulgences help clean you up now, so you don’t have to get purified later in Purgatory.   Patrick says it's totally doable to gain a plenary indulgence every single day (!!!) if you meet the conditions (like Confession, Mass, prayer for the Pope, detachment from sin, etc.).  

Patrick examines the importance of confession and the ethics of scientific advancements like 3D-printed skin. Listener calls address compelling questions about humility and handling family challenges with grace. If you're looking to deepen your spiritual journey or engage in thought-provoking topics, this episode provides valuable perspectives.   You need to go to confession (00:39) 3D-printed ‘skin’ could make testing cosmetics on animals obsolete (03:55) David – Do you have any good resources to learn more about humility? (17:35) Gretchen - My dad was arrested for child pornography. I am devastated. How do I get through this? (20:36) Patrick - If Mary and Joseph got so much gold from the Magi, how come they could only afford turtle doves? (25:17) Road Kill (33:59) Vito – There’s a man in my lector ministry married to another man. This man said that our priest told him to keep it under wraps. Now there’s people telling me not to be so judgmental. What do I do? (36:11)

Patrick discusses the peculiar topic of 'roadkill cuisine' as listeners share their amusing and surprising tales from Wisconsin and beyond. He moves from wild tales from the road to exploring deeper questions about morality and faith. Patrick and callers engage in discussions about sensitive issues within the Church, like confronting scandal and handling situations with priests and parish communities. Patrick also shares powerful testimonies from listeners like Jonathan, whose journey from Mormonism to Catholicism is influenced by family, tradition, and a search for truth.   Cyrus shares a couple of emails about eating roadkill (really). (00:40) Vinnie - I went to the same church Vito went to and was also told not to judge. (06:18) Raoul - I feel that Vito and others should do more. They should report this to the Bishop. (07:52) Jerry - I have processed nine road kills since Feb 1st. I give the meat to the poor. Nothing goes to waste. (10:56) Mary - Does supporting gay marriage make a priest’s masses invalid? (18:18) Joseph – My past sin really gets to me. How can I overcome this? (25:19) Joe – The Catholic Church is sweeping gay marriage under the rug. You make it sound like this stuff goes on all over. (31:02) Vince (email) – Comment about homosexual priests or those who support homosexuality within the Church (37:09) Jonathon - Thank you, Patrick, for helping me to get converted to the church this Easter! (40:12)

Patrick explores compelling insights and holds unpredictable conversations on theology and faith. He tackles theological discussions about the filioque, sharing how it affects dialogues between Catholics and Orthodox believers. Patrick also addresses the importance of spiritual advisors, the unique role of priests, and the significance of baptism across different denominations. Additionally, he shares personal stories and offers tips for living a life aligned with moral values.   Wyatt - What is your opinion on Filioque and how do you respond to Orthodox. (00:35) Christine - Can a lay person be your spiritual advisor? (07:42) Joe - Jesus was baptized at 30. Does that mean only adults should be baptized? (12:56) Ann (email) – Can I ask my priest friend to be my official spiritual director? (21:19) Carmen (email) – If you didn’t choose a career in apologetics, what do you think you would be doing now? (22:46) Noelene - Is it okay to say 'God bless America' as an explicative? (33:31) Fred – What’s the difference between Orthodox and Catholic Filioque (40:41) Marilyn - Plenary indulgence: Would saying the Stations of Cross at home count or do I need to be in Church for the indulgence? (44:13) Judy - Is offering the Mass with money as effective as offering it in my heart as in intention? (47:52)

Patrick highlights fascinating historical findings aligning with Biblical accounts, focusing on a recent archaeological discovery at Jesus's burial site. Patrick takes the audience through the evidence and its implications for faith and science. He also discusses the importance of confession before communion, addressing listener queries about Catholic Church teachings. With engaging discussions and insightful exchanges, this hour encourages a deeper look into faith practices and the historical roots of Christianity.   New Find At Jesus’ Burial Site Backs Biblical Account Of Resurrection (00:35) David (email) – Are there exceptions that allow someone in grave sin to take Communion before going to Confession? (09:34) Tom (email) - I ordered the new Ignatius Study Bible. It’s not only a weapon against evil but can be used in self-defense. It is very heavy. (23:11) Jim - Is there a Catholic response to a Protestant saying that Catholics are not born again. (30:33) Anne - When I pray, do I need to pray for them by name specifically or can I just pray for them in general? (39:16) Donna - At the beginning of Mass, does the Penitential Rite absolve our sins? (46:44)

Patrick brings updates on a groundbreaking medical advancement, a dissolvable pacemaker powered by light, highlighting amazing progress in science and technology. He addresses important spiritual questions about misunderstandings regarding receiving Communion if you're late to Mass, and whether using a list for confession indicates scrupulosity. Plus, Patrick discusses traditional practices during Mass and introduces some emerging ones.   Scientists have developed the world’s smallest pacemaker, geared towards babies. The pacemaker is even smaller than a grain of rice! (00:25) Deacon Lewis – If you don’t make it in time for the penitential rite, can you still receive Communion? (03:35) Pieter (email) – Am I being scrupulous by writing down my sins before going into Confession? (08:12) Joel (email) – After 43 years away from my faith, I came home to the Catholic Church. (18:33) Donna - is it appropriate to bow before you receive Communion and do the Sign of Cross after? (20:10) John - I just started going to Catholic Church and they don’t do the penitential rite during Mass. Is this mandatory? (32:04) John - Should I stay away from 'The Young Pope' with Jude Law? (35:46) Debbie – I like holding hands during the Our Father. I like this idea of reaching out to people in Church. I think it is a little way of recognizing the people beside you. (40:32) Albert - Bowing to the priest: people are not bowing to the priest but to the Gospel when the priest shows the Word of the Lord. (47:04)

In this hour of The Patrick Madrid Show, Patrick explores thought-provoking discussions on faith, tradition, and spirituality. He examines the nuances of the sign of the cross after receiving Holy Communion and clears up misconceptions about religion versus a personal relationship with Christ. He also addresses practical issues like usury and its implications in today's society. Plus, Patrick engages in a thoughtful conversation about the role of charismatic movements in personal faith journeys.   Mark (email) - During our First Communion training, which was given by nuns who taught at our school, we were all taught to never make the sign of the cross after receiving Holy Communion and to always take Communion in the hand. (00:26) Steve - What is the difference between a relationship with Christ and religion? (04:38) Alex - Paul says, 'lift up holy hands without conflict'. Why can't we lift our hands at Mass? (13:05) Thomas - What is the sin of Usury? Is this grave? (17:39) Lilly - What is the issue with the charismatic renewal? (31:38) Amber - Sign of peace - Covid helped us because now we aren't forced to shake hands with everyone, which was sometimes awkward or painful. (38:20)  Michael - We don't have a penitential act at my parish (45:25)

Patrick pays tribute to the late actor Val Kilmer, known for iconic roles like Iceman in "Top Gun" and Doc Holliday in "Tombstone." While reflecting on Val's life, Patrick brings focus to faith, life choices, and the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures. Through engaging discussions and scriptural insights, listeners are reminded of the importance of aligning life with values and faith.   Val Kilmer, Star of ‘Tombstone,’ Dies at 65 (00:50) Anna (email) - I'm a college student, and I've started making new friends, and I thought I found my people. However, it turns out, that one of them is gay, and another trans, and another one is one of those "it" people without gender. I feel like I'm too deep into the friend group, but also, I'm afraid they might influence me to make the wrong choices. (19:17) David – Can you interpret the passages from Scripture on the narrow road to salvation and the eye of the needle? (26:31) David - Can you explain the Jubilee of Hope to me? What is a Jubilee? (39:32)

Patrick discusses the challenges of parenting in today's world filled with varying influences and ideologies. He offers insights into balancing the pursuit of affluence with spiritual growth and shares advice on providing meaningful support in difficult family situations. Additionally, Patrick highlights the benefits of homeschooling and the relationship between wealth and virtue.   Claudia - My son is confused about his gender. I’m concerned about the influence of his friends. What can I do? (01:02) Elizabeth - My sister-in-law was a former witch, and she needs help. How can I change her mind about the Catholic Church? (06:24) John - No requirements or credentials are required to teach at a private school in California. (13:29) Claudia (email) – Thank you for telling us about The Walton’s! (19:37) Margaret - Can someone look at their abundance and wealth as a cross or is that just playing the victim’s role? (23:06) Karen (email) – What are plenary indulgences and where can I get them? (33:41) Sam - Can I use someone's suffering and offer it up for them if they can't offer it up themselves? (39:13) Jerry - Catholics Schools performing are better. I also have a Crucifix in my school, and it works. (41:47) Mark - I know we have to be not attached to riches, but being rich is not bad. (44:02)

Patrick brings forward profound discussions about life's priorities through heartfelt calls. David reflects on the true value of time and possessions as he faces terminal illness, offering a sincere perspective on what's truly important. Patrick also engages with John, learning about the spiritual significance of final sacraments and apostolic blessings as shared through John's touching story about his late father. The episode further explores aspects of Catholic faith, from the meaning of the Eucharist to the inspiring story of faith in the book of Job. Whether it's about faith, family, or understanding spiritual truths, Patrick captures the essence of living a purpose-driven life.   David (email) – I have non-curable cancer, and money means nothing to me (00:41) John – My father passed this weekend. How does the apostolic pardon work? (03:13) Robert - You can do good or bad with wealth. Look at Job, who was wealthy yet loved God. Wealth is neutral. (09:15) Jennifer - My friend took the Host from a Satanist (18:27) Jane - What is the Church ruling on changing the words of scripture for the readings? (22:12) Shawna - Can you refer me to why Mary is not in the Bible more? (29:11) Jack - If you don't have last rites, but a priest comes to you, do you get a default plenary indulgence? (36:08) Tara - Why was the Eucharist not mentioned in the Creed? (38:58)