Evangelization & Culture Podcast

Bishop Robert Barron, Bishop of Winona and Rochester and founder of Word on Fire, dives deep into the essence of beauty. He discusses beauty's role as a transcendent truth rather than mere subjective taste, drawing from philosophical insights of Thomas Aquinas. The conversation weaves through personal experiences with art and faith, illustrating how beauty can transform lives and evoke deeper connections to the divine. They explore the interplay between beauty, truth, and goodness, prompting listeners to reconsider their understanding of beauty's impact on spirituality.

In this engaging discussion, Ignat Solzhenitsyn—a renowned conductor, pianist, and son of Nobel laureate Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn—dives deep into his father's profound insights on faith and morality. He reflects on the legacy of Aleksandr’s courageous stand against Soviet tyranny and the power of truth in literature. Topics include the urgent need for purpose in a secular world, the balance between hope and evil, and how true freedom is rooted in moral choice. Ignat emphasizes the importance of individual activism in confronting today’s societal challenges.

In his autobiographical book, Derek Ruth explains, "During my time in heaven, Jesus gave me a choice, but I had no idea what the choice would entail. I believed I would come back to earth and continue living like I had been for the first twelve years of my life. I had no idea the trials and tribulations I would face in order to regain my life. And it has not been easy, but I would make the sale choice. I would choose this life." Join me and Derek Ruth, with the help of his father Royce and his mother Jennifer, as we discuss The Eight-Minute Flight on the Evangelization & Culture Podcast. Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.

Daniel Mahoney, Professor Emeritus at Assumption University and Senior Fellow at the Claremont Institute, discusses the resurgence of ideological lies and totalitarianism in modern society. He highlights the philosophical dangers of ideology as social engineering, drawing parallels between historical and contemporary practices. The conversation critiques Marxism and its human consequences while emphasizing the human spirit's resilience against oppression. Mahoney advocates for a deeper recognition of truth and tradition in maintaining civilizational values amidst ideological turmoil.

Matthew Becklo, writer and publishing director for Word on Fire, dives deep into the paradoxes of Catholicism. He unpacks the 'both/and' nature of faith, exploring the balance between spirit and flesh. Becklo discusses the struggles of reconciling philosophy with the Catholic experience, emphasizing the importance of Christ's resurrection. He examines the need for harmony between reason and experience, and reflects on the thrilling challenges of maintaining orthodoxy in a changing world. A thought-provoking journey into the essence of faith awaits!

Lawrence Perelman, founder of Semantics Creative Group and author of 'American Impresario', shares his fascinating friendship with William F. Buckley, Jr. They discuss Buckley’s passion for music and his influence as an evangelist for the arts. Perelman recounts his immigrant family's struggles and the transformative power of music and mentorship. He highlights Buckley’s ability to foster connections, navigate political discourse with warmth, and create lasting friendships, all while celebrating a rich musical legacy.

How are we to look at the world? Through a brilliant lens of hope, wonder, and gratitude? Or through a shadowy lens of despair, cynicism, and selfishness? The journalist, wit, and Catholic convert G.K. Chesterton is an extraordinary model who mastered the art of a marveling Catholic vision. Join me and Dr. Duncan Reyburn as we explore his excellent book, Seeing Things As They Are: G.K. Chesterton and the Drama of Meaning on the Evangelization & Culture Podcast. Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.

When you consider the story of Pinocchio, you are flooded with visions of a Disney-fied wooden boy with big blue eyes, a lengthening nose, and a mischievous heart. But reading the original Pinocchio (and its theological underpinnings perceived by Franco Nembrini), you are shocked by the misanthropic boy, his violent experiences, and his perpetually merciful father. Join me, Marcie Stokman, and Colleen Hutt as we revisit the original tale of Pinocchio, re-released by Wiseblood Books/Well-Read Mom, on the Evangelization & Culture Podcast. Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.

A Nightmare on Elm Street, The Blair Witch Project, and The Exorcist have scared the daylights out of a generation of moviegoers. And even though viewers startle and jump, chill and scream, they keep coming back for more. What is it that makes us crave a good scare? And where is God in the fright of such horror movies? Join me and Fr. Ryan Duns as we seek God in the darkness in his new book, Theology of Horror: The Hidden Depths of Popular Film on the Evangelization & Culture Podcast. Stay up-to-date with the latest episodes of the Evangelization & Culture Podcast biweekly on WordOnFire.org, on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can get more content like this in the quarterly print journal of the Word on Fire Institute, Evangelization & Culture.

Join Bishop Robert Barron, a renowned theologian and founder of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries, as he delves into the art of prayer. He discusses how genuine relationships, including our connection with God, require selflessness and earnest communication. Explore the transformative power of both personal and liturgical prayer, the significance of the Mass, and the role of the rosary. Bishop Barron emphasizes that prayer can lead to spiritual growth, especially during times of suffering, reminding us that God is always present.