Catholic Theology Show

How can Catholics rediscover a sense of wonder in a world that feels disconnected from meaning? Dr. Michael Dauphinais sits down with Dr. Kyle Washut, president of Wyoming Catholic College, to discuss the importance of recovering an enchanted view of the universe. They explore how the Catholic intellectual tradition, rooted in Scripture and the natural world, counters the modern "buffered self" that isolates individuals from God, others, and creation. Resources: Annunciation Circle (Ave Maria University Monthly Giving Community)Ave Maria University websiteKyle Washut's personal websiteWyoming Catholic College websiteHelp support this podcast and Our Lady's University by joining the Annunciation Circle!Get more information about Ave Maria University!

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Angela Franks, a theologian and professor at Saint John’s Seminary, dives into the modern crisis of identity. She sheds light on the 'empty self' phenomenon and its historical roots, emphasizing the importance of fixed identities over fluid ones. Topics include the impact of digital interactions on self-perception and the role of parents in guiding children through these challenges. Dr. Franks also highlights how spirituality, particularly through the Eucharist, fosters a deeper understanding of identity, compassion, and connection to God.

How can St. Thomas Aquinas help address the modern crisis of belief?Today, Dr. Michael Dauphinais is joined by Fr. Michael Sherwin, O.P.,, a Dominican theologian and professor of theology at the Angelicum in Rome, to explore how Aquinas’ teachings can respond to contemporary challenges in faith. They discuss the nature of belief in Jesus Christ, the developmental journey of faith, and how Aquinas integrates diverse intellectual traditions to affirm the truth of the Gospel. Fr. Sherwin also shares insights from his personal faith journey and offers practical spiritual practices for growing closer to God.Resources: Annunciation Circle (Ave Maria University Monthly Giving Community)Ave Maria University websiteFr. Michael Sherwin's faculty page at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas AquinasFr. Michael Sherwin's list of books on Amazon

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Francis Beckwith, a professor at Baylor University and author of 'Never Doubt Thomas,' shares his inspiring journey back to Catholicism, heavily influenced by St. Thomas Aquinas. He discusses how Aquinas' philosophical insights helped reconcile his beliefs and bridge evangelical thought with classical theology. The dialogue explores topics like justification, the nature of grace, and the transformative power of moral formation. Beckwith also reflects on the complexities of divine agency, encouraging a richer connection with faith.

How can Catholics engage with Jordan Peterson’s ideas while remaining rooted in the faith?Today, Dr. Michael Dauphinais talks with Dr. Christopher Kaczor, Catholic philosopher, author, and Professor of Philosophy at Loyola Marymount University, about his book Jordan Peterson, God, and Christianity: The Search for a Meaningful Life. They explore how Peterson’s moral reading of scripture has sparked renewed interest in the Bible, even among atheists, and reflect on the universal relevance of stories like Cain and Abel. They also discuss the limits of Peterson’s theology and his ongoing journey of faith. Resources: Annunciation Circle (Ave Maria University Monthly Giving Community)Ave Maria University websiteDr. Christopher Kaczor’s personal websiteDr. Kaczor's book Jordan Peterson, God, and Christianity: The Search for a Meaningful Life can be found hereDr. Christopher Kaczor on Amazon Help support this podcast and Our Lady's University by joining the Annunciation Circle!Get more information about Ave Maria University!

What does it mean to return to Catholicism and live out its truths in a political and cultural context?Today, Dr. Michael Dauphinais sits down with Michael Knowles, host of The Daily Wire's The Michael Knowles Show and a prominent Catholic commentator, to explore his reversion to the Catholic faith after a decade of atheism. They discuss how reading the Gospels and engaging with intellectual arguments led Knowles to embrace Christ and the Church. They also cover the importance of the historicity of Christianity, the intersection of faith and politics, and the dangers of modern attempts to control speech. Resources: Annunciation Circle (Ave Maria University Monthly Giving Community)Ave Maria University websiteMichael Knowles' official websiteThe Michael Knowles Show on The Daily WireMichael J. Knowles on Amazon Help support this podcast and Our Lady's University by joining the Annunciation Circle!Get more information about Ave Maria University!

How can Catholics build meaningful relationships in an era of increasing loneliness and isolation?Today, Dr. Michael Dauphinais sits down with Dr. Ray Guarendi, a clinical psychologist, Catholic author, and speaker, to explore practical approaches to fostering love and friendship. They discuss strategies for being present to others, balancing acceptance and honesty in challenging discussions, and living out Christian values to strengthen connections. Dr. Guarendi also shares his personal journey from atheism to Catholicism and offers guidance for young people navigating dating and relationships. Resources: Annunciation Circle (Ave Maria University Monthly Giving Community)Ave Maria University websiteDr. Ray Guarendi’s personal websiteDr. Ray's published books on Sophia Institute Press Help support this podcast and Our Lady's University by joining the Annunciation Circle!Get more information about Ave Maria University!

What can we learn from the extraordinary friendship between Mother Teresa and Pope John Paul II? Today, Dr. Michael Dauphinais is joined by Patrick Novecosky, an award-winning author and speaker and the founder of NovaMedia, to discuss his upcoming book on two of the greatest modern-day saints. They discuss how both saints overcame profound personal suffering to become beacons of hope, transforming the 20th century through their faith in Jesus Christ and his witness to human dignity and divine mercy. Resources: Annunciation Circle (Ave Maria University Monthly Giving Community)Ave Maria University websitePatrick Novecosky’s website, which includes details about his books and publications.100 Ways John Paul II Changed the World by Patrick Novecosky, his first book mentioned in the transcript. Help support this podcast and Our Lady's University by joining the Annunciation Circle!Get more information about Ave Maria University!

How does Jesus Christ transform the way we think about God? Today, Dr. Michael Dauphinais sits down with Dr. Adam Van Wart, Associate Professor of Theology at Ave Maria University, to discuss how the Incarnation makes God concretely present in human history, overcoming the human tendency to idolatry. Dr. Van Wart also explains how suffering acquires new meaning through Christ’s Cross and Resurrection, and shares insights from his personal journey from evangelical Protestantism to Catholicism. Resources: Annunciation Circle  (Ave Maria University Monthly Giving Community)Ave Maria University  websiteDr. Adam Van Wart, Associate Professor of Theology at Ave Maria University Help support this podcast and Our Lady's University by joining the Annunciation Circle!Get more information about Ave Maria University!

How can Catholics integrate personal development practices with authentic faith?Today, Dr. Michael Dauphinais speaks with Matt Ingold, co-founder of Metanoia Catholic, about “baptizing” secular life coaching with Catholic theology. They discuss John Paul II’s Theology of the Body as a foundation for understanding human growth, the non-competitive relationship between grace and effort, and practical approaches to discovering your unique vocation while growing in holiness. Resources: Annunciation Circle (Ave Maria University Monthly Giving Community) Ave Maria University websiteMetanoia Catholic - Matt Ingold's organization that provides Catholic coaching Catholic Coaching Podcast - Podcast hosted by Matt Ingold and his wife Unrepeatable - Book recommended by Matt about personal vocation  Help support this podcast and Our Lady's University by joining the Annunciation Circle!Get more information about Ave Maria University!