Spe Salvi Institute Podcast

D.C. Schindler, a professor of metaphysics and anthropology, dives deep into the connection between work and the Theology of the Body. He argues that work is not theologically neutral, contrasting ancient Greek and Jewish views. Schindler critiques modernity's distortion of these perspectives, highlighting the importance of rediscovering meaningful work. He discusses the impact of AI on creativity and emphasizes the need for human touch in the arts. Additionally, he advocates for vocational education that aligns academic learning with practical skills for fulfilling careers.

Larry Chapp spent the last month in Rome commentating on the Synod on Synodality. His letters on the Synod were published at First Things. In this episode, Larry shares his thoughts on the Synod and his experiences in Rome. Near the end of the episode, he explains why we need to “re-weird” Christianity and the importance of enchantment.

The Church has a long legacy in Europe. It is a legacy mixed with triumphs and trials, particularly in 20th century Poland. In this episode, historian and translator Filip Maczurach introduces the life of Bl. Cardinal Wyszyński who boldly stood up to the Communists and became a national hero. We discuss of Filip’s translation of Wyszyński’s book “Love and Social Justice: Reflections on Society”  https://aroucapress.com/wyszynski . Later in the discussion, we talk about the state of the Church in Europe and some recent attacks on the legacy of JP2 by the Polish Left.

In this episode, we are joined by novelist and critic, Joshua Hren, to discuss his new novel Blue Walls Falling Down. The novel has already received much praise. Publisher Angelico Press describes the novel as follows: “Written with a style and sensibility that have been compared to David Foster Wallace and Dostoevsky, James Joyce and Saul Bellow, Blue Walls Falling Down chronicles the eternal questions that agitate our subterranean frequencies and demand more than the human spirit can give or answer alone." In addition to discussing the novel, Andrew and Joshua explore the place of the novel in art and the role the novelist plays in capturing in words the depths of reality. Learn more about Joshua Hren and his writings at his website.

"The last things all hinge on death. Death is the passage that leads to judgment, purgatory, resurrection, and so forth,” writes theologian Andrew T.J. Kaethler, Academic Dean and Associate Professor of Theology at Catholic Pacific College, in his recent article “Eschatology: Dying to Live.” In this episode, we discuss with Prof. Kaethler this article and his book The Eschatological Person: Alexander Schmemann and Joseph Ratzinger in Dialogue.

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Rodney Howsare, a professor of theology, to discuss his recent thought-provoking article in Catholic World Report titled "Secularism and Catholic Higher Education in America.” Dr. Howsare explores the challenges facing Catholic universities and colleges in the U.S., as they navigate an increasingly secular culture and how secularism has, in many respects, become the “social imaginary” of Catholic schools, distorting religion into a voluntary, private affair. Dr. Howsare points us beyond this social imaginary and to a better idea of religion.

Nathan Pinkoski delves into his thought-provoking perspectives on the intersections of religion, culture, and politics. Pinkoski discusses his recent talk, “Catholicism and the Necessity of Nationalism,” where he explores the crucial role of Catholicism in shaping national identity and its potential to revitalize a sense of community and purpose in the modern world. The conversation also touches on his provocative articles, “The Spiritual Death of the West” and “Fukuyama vs. Fukuyama.” Pinkoski analyzes the profound spiritual and cultural crises facing Western civilization, examining how secularism and the abandonment of tradition have led to a deeper existential void. Furthermore, he offers a critical take on Francis Fukuyama’s evolving views on liberalism and the end of history, providing insightful commentary on the ideological shifts that have shaped the contemporary political landscape. Nathan is an assistant professor at Hamilton Center for Classical and Civic Education at the University of Florida.

In this interview, we sit down with renowned theologian and philosopher, John Milbank, to discuss his recent article in the Catholic Herald, "Taking Stock of the UK Riots: Catholicism and the Crisis of Anglo-Celtic Identity." Milbank delves into the underlying cultural and spiritual crises that he believes have contributed to the social unrest and identity struggles in the UK.  

Check out our in-depth exploration of Theology of the Body! In this video, we take a deep dive into the profound teachings of Pope John Paul II on the Theology of the Body. This series of lectures, delivered between 1979 and 1984, offers a revolutionary understanding of human sexuality, love, and the human body through a theological lens. Whether you’re new to this topic or looking to deepen your understanding, this discussion will provide you with valuable insights into how these teachings apply to modern life. What You’ll Learn: -The Origins of Theology of the Body: Discover how John Paul II developed these teachings and the biblical foundations that underpin them. -Key Themes and Concepts: Explore the central themes, including the meaning of the body, the significance of human sexuality, and the call to love as God loves. -Practical Applications: Learn how these teachings can transform your approach to relationships, marriage, and personal identity. -Theological Impact: Understand why Theology of the Body is considered one of the most important contributions to Catholic theology in the 20th century

In this episode, Tracey Rowland, a prominent theologian and winner of the prestigious Ratzinger Prize (2020), discusses her book Beyond Kant and Nietszche: A Munich Defence of Christian Humanism, where she explores the limitations of modern philosophy and the contributions of six Christian humanists. She also reflects on her extensive work on Pope Benedict XVI, highlighting his theological insights and contributions to the Church, especially in understanding the modern challenges to faith and reason. Additionally, Rowland discusses her commencement speech to Christendom College and the courageous witness to the faith required in our times.