Okay, so on this episode of The Patrick Madrid Show, we get a look into the virtue of hope. A caller named Matt from Columbus, NJ, kicks things off by saying that a lot of Catholics don’t really get what hope actually is. Honestly, he’s onto something.   What’s Hope, Really?    Most people think of hope like: I hope the weather’s nice tomorrow, or I hope my team wins. But biblical, theological hope is different. The Catechism (CCC 1817) lays it out:   Hope is the virtue by which we desire heaven, trusting not in ourselves, but in God’s promises and His grace to get us there.   Basically, it’s not a shaky, fingers-crossed kind of thing; it’s a confident expectation in God’s faithfulness.    So… Can Catholics Be Sure They’re Going to Heaven?    Matt brings up a great point here. He adds that if you ask a Catholic, “Are you going to heaven?” they’ll respond with, “Uh… I hope so?”, but with a tone of doubt. That’s a problem. Because hope isn’t uncertainty; it’s trust.   Patrick brings in St. Paul as Exhibit A. Paul talks about winning the race and fighting the good fight; he expects heaven, but he also knows he has to persevere to the end. We don’t “earn” salvation (we need grace!), but we cooperate with it.   So, the Catholic answer isn’t “I know I’m going to heaven, no doubt” (we’re not into that Once Saved, Always Saved mindset), but it’s also not “I have no idea”. Instead, it’s:   -I trust in God’s promises   -I know He’ll give me the grace to get there   -But I also know I have free will and need to stay faithful   Hope vs. Despair & Presumption    Patrick also covers the two big dangers that wreck hope:   Despair: Thinking, I’m too far gone, I’ll never be saved. That’s a lie; God’s mercy is bigger than any sin. Never stop hoping! Presumption: Thinking, I don’t need to do anything, I’m automatically saved. This is also wrong; Jesus literally tells us to persevere to the end (Matt 24:13).   Hope Is Non-Negotiable.    Patrick ties it all together with St. Thomas Aquinas, who says hope is necessary for salvation. You have to desire heaven and expect God’s help. No hope? No heaven.    Moral of the story: Hope is trust in God’s love and promises. So next time someone asks if you’re going to heaven, don’t say “I don’t know” ... say, “I trust in God to get me there.”    Want to level up your hope? Pray for the grace of perseverance, dive into Scripture, and never stop trusting in God’s goodness! 

Ever wonder why Catholics seem to talk about Mary a lot? That’s exactly what Brandon from San Diego asked Patrick Madrid. And wow, did Patrick deliver a solid, scripture-packed response!   Brandon’s Big Question    Brandon is exploring the Catholic faith but has been wrestling with devotion to Mary. He’s come to terms with the idea of praying with saints, but the amount of Marian prayers has him a little uneasy. He described it as a "food pyramid of prayers" where Mary seems to take up, like, 90% of the plate.    Patrick’s Response    Patrick assured Brandon that Catholics do focus way more on God, but Mary has a unique and biblical role. He laid it out like this:   The Bible Is All About Mary She’s everywhere in the Gospels! From the Annunciation to the Visitation to Jesus' childhood, His first miracle (yep, at her request), and standing at the Cross. Even at Pentecost, she’s there. God clearly wanted her to play a huge role in salvation history.    Jesus Honored Mary, So We Do Too Jesus spent 30 years with Mary before even starting His ministry. In John 17, Jesus talks about sharing His glory. If He honors His mother, shouldn’t we?    Catholics Aren’t Worshipping Mary Big misconception. Catholics honor her, just like the angel Gabriel did ("Hail, full of grace!"). Asking for her prayers is like asking your mom for help. Except she’s literally the Queen Mother of Heaven.    Your Perception Might Be Skewed Brandon mentioned hearing a lot of Marian prayers on Relevant Radio, and Patrick gently pointed out that’s just one slice of Catholic prayer life. The Mass, the Divine Mercy Chaplet, personal prayer: all of it is way more focused on God. But Mary has her rightful place too!   Final Takeaway   Mary isn’t competition for God. She’s His masterpiece. If God chose her to be the mother of Jesus, protected her from sin, and made her central to salvation history… well, maybe she’s worth a few extra prayers.    Want to dig deeper? Patrick recommended two books: 📖 Hail, Holy Queen by Scott Hahn 📖 Behold Your Mother by Tim Staples   Brandon left the conversation with a lot to think about, and so do we! If you’ve ever wrestled with this question, what’s your biggest hang-up?   

Patrick discusses compelling insights, such as the big move by In N Out Burger from California to Tennessee and what that means for burger enthusiasts across the nation. He addresses the sorrowful news of Gene Hackman's passing, offering reflections on life, legacy, and true treasures. Further, Patrick explores questions about faith, marriage, and religious devotions, providing clarity and encouragement to those seeking spiritual guidance.   In-N-Out Closing California Office, Opening New Tennessee HQ (1:00) Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, wife found dead in Santa Fe home (7:08) Maria Christina – What is Opus Dei? (12:40) Jerry - In Persona Christi. how does the priest become a stand-in for Christ? (23:07) Kevin (email) - Is there a difference in praying, “Father help President Trump make America a Great Again’” and “Father, help President Trump use his power and influence to pass Christ-like policies to solve our complicated issues to restore America to its greatness?” (23:07) MJ (email) – Tithing - Is if it is acceptable to give 5% (net or gross income) to our Parish and 5% to other ‘needs’ like family, St. Vincent DePaul and Pro-life organizations or is the 10% meant to go completely to our Parish? (26:31) Florence (email) – What good news did Jesus proclaim? (29:49) Lauren (email) - How is it fair that a devout Catholic spouse who did not want a divorce, but was not granted an annulment, cannot get remarried in the Catholic Church? (38:13) Osrick - Where is the evidence for Mary's perpetual virginity? (46:10)

Patrick discusses the significance of baptism, the Catholic understanding of sin and confession, and the profound role of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He explores the essentials of these key spiritual themes while seamlessly weaving biblical context and Catholic doctrine. Whether you're curious about religious traditions or exploring the depths of faith, this episode provides encouragement and clarity to enrich your day.   Nicholas – What can I say to a person saying I need to get re-baptized and recommit to Jesus because I didn’t have faith as a baby? (0:42) Scott - How long should I wait to go to Confession if you want to get an indulgence? (17:41) Meredith - What does God think about a priest being gay? (Patrick plays back a call from yesterday’s show after an unfounded accusation about what he said) (24:34) Brandon - You recommended a book, “Rome Sweet Home” a couple of months ago. I have gotten through most of the book, but it seems to gloss over Mary. Can you help? (37:24)

JP courageously shares her experience of being forced to have an abortion when she was 14-years-old. Patrick provides compassionate guidance, emphasizing the value of post-abortion healing resources like Rachel's Vineyard and Project Rachel. This conversation reveals the strength and hope that can be found through empathy and understanding.   J.P. – As a teenager, my mom took me, against will, to get two abortions. Does God understand this? (00:42) Rebecca – How can I help my Lutheran husband convert? (11:06) Miliani - Protestant friend inviting me to a Bible study. Should I go? (15:41) John – My friend is Catholic and has not been to Church in long time. She went to Confession and the priest refused her sacrament and told her to leave. (23:41) Rosa - Is it a sin to get divorced? When Jesus said carry cross does that mean we have to endure a certain situation? (37:49) Megan - Thank you, Patrick, for all the wonderful and compassionate things that you have said. (47:43) Susan - I wanted to encourage JP. I work with Rachel's Vineyard. We will not try to convert her but talk about the mercy of God. (50:21)

Patrick explores the significance of the sign of peace in the Catholic Mass and how it evolved over time. He also discusses the impact of technology on daily life and the novelty of screen-free gatherings. Plus, Patrick addresses ethical considerations surrounding vaccines and their implications for Catholics.   Health and Human Services releases a statement confirming human life begins at conception (01:05) Londoners embrace $12 screen-free nights at offline club? (03:30) Marty - Why did the Angel say that John the Baptist shouldn't drink any strong drink? (12:12) Joann Fabrics, 80-Year-Old Crafts and Fabrics Retailer, Will Close All Stores (18:22) Osrick - When the Bible refers to Jesus’ brethren, they mention James. Who is this James and is he the same one mentioned in Galatians? (25:16) Sydney - The Glory Be prayer: What does it mean 'as it was in the beginning now and ever shall be world without end'? (34:25) Jillian - If there are aborted fetuses used in vaccines? Can Catholics get vaccinated? (36:17) Henry (email) - Is it acceptable and safe to participate in Tai Chi exercises? (43:50) Lisa (email) – Why and when was the Sign of Peace introduced? (45:28)

Patrick explores real questions and offers insightful answers to life's complex topics. In this hour, he examines martial arts in Catholicism, the nuances of Tai Chi and Tai Gong, and how they align with faith. Listeners share their journey, highlighting the importance of aligning spiritual practices with truth.   Alex - Is Tai Chi okay for Catholics to practice? (01:25) Liz - Why do we use lemons to clean our hands from ashes but hand sanitizer before distributing the Eucharist? Our priest prepares the gifts before washing his hands, is that okay? (09:19) Sam - What is a good resource about the Mass and liturgy in relation to the Church Fathers and their teaching? (21:55) Latasha - My friend is studying something like vibrations but I don't know if it is in line with Church Teaching. (26:42) Jerry - Why do Catholics believe the priest is in persona Christi during Mass? Is there a reference and I go to? (39:02) Joshua - Is Aristotelian distinction between substance and accidence related to the gender issue today? (42:33)

Patrick explores deep theological and philosophical questions and has discussions that range from the Aristotelian concepts of substance and accident in relation to gender, to the moral implications of vasectomy and its impact on marriage. A visitor to an Episcopal church raises questions about the church's stance on homosexuality, and Patrick offers a perspective grounded in scripture. Additionally, blending faith with science is addressed, highlighting how they can coexist harmoniously.   Patrick continues his conversation with Joshua from the end of the last hour: Is Aristotelian distinction between substance and accidence related to the gender issue today? (01:00) Katie - What is a good resource for arguing against getting a vasectomy? (11:47) Meredith - What does God think about a priest being gay? (27:58) Joseph – Comment about Dana’s call from yesterday’s show (40:08) Antonio - Did Jesus ask the apostles to bring weapons with him into the Garden? If so, why? (48:55)

Patrick discusses the latest advancements in technology with Elon Musk's Starlink, which promises to improve the FAA networks and enhance air travel safety. Patrick examines the complexities of ethical concerns in religious contexts, like IVF, and how to approach sensitive conversations. He also highlights the variety of religious music, from traditional Gregorian chants to modern praise, while appreciating the taste of Guadalupe Gold coffee that supports communities in Nicaragua.   Starlink Set To Upgrade America's Air Traffic Control System (00:37) Email: I have a godchild who was conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Am I morally obligated to talk to my cousin about this and let her know of the Church's teaching on IVF? (04:48) John - I sing at my parish. What do you think about this song that has a verse 'as Jesus died the wrath of God was satisfied'? (09:33) Harold - I tried the coffee from the Relevant Radio store, and it was super delicious! (19:14) Jillian - Are there other options like 'Catechesis of the Good Shepherd' for younger kids? (26:38) Keaton - Is there ever going to be a push for more modern music in the Church to attract younger people? (30:48) Audio: Is your church Contemporvant? (39:14) Ricardo - Some people like Gregorian Chant, but there needs to be a balance.  It's not that we need certain types of music to be brought in.  We need to create a welcoming environment and put focus on Catechesis. (42:54) Mary Ann - Mass is our worship of God and therefore we have specific masses.  You could have praise/worship outside of mass. (47:48)

Patrick has a spirited debate with Dana, a caller who challenges the historical evidence of Jesus' resurrection. Dana questions the accounts of the apostles and doubts these pivotal historical events. Patrick guides Dana toward the truth by drawing from historical texts and theological insights, offering a well-founded defense of the resurrection's validity. Through this engaging exchange, Patrick encourages listeners to deepen their understanding and reaffirm the foundational beliefs of the Christian faith.   Jayna - Thanks to Patrick and Relevant Radio for helping me become Catholic. (00:54) Marisela - I'm in favor of solemn traditional music, as opposed to guitar and maracas, especially when we're taking the Eucharist. When we're at Mass, I want to feel like I’m at Mass. I’m not there to be entertained. (08:32) Rosy (email) – Going to Mass for the music is demeaning to God (16:15) Jesus (11-years-old) - What happens when you drop the Holy Eucharist? (18:48) Dana - Did Jesus’ apostles doubt his resurrection? (22:59) Maria - I was hospitalized, and the only thing that got me through was Patrick Madrid praying the Memorare (40:49) Josh - What do you think about men having long hair and Church teaching? (45:45)