Evangelization & Culture Podcast

In the preface to Ryan Wilson and April Limner’s anthology, Contemporary Catholic Poetry, Ryan writes, “One of the things human beings are always forgetting is that the world is greater than any individual’s idea of it. The world is more complex, more manifold, more mysterious than any mortal mind can fully comprehend, as is the human individual.” As Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “I’ve never met a man who was fully awake.” Join me and Ryan Wilson as we discuss contemporary Catholic poetry and poetry’s magnificent wake-up call. 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.

In this insightful discussion, Dan Kuebler, a biology professor, and Christopher Baglow, director of the Science and Religion Initiative, explore the timely debate on intelligent design within Catholicism. They probe whether Catholic scientists should adopt a 'God in the gaps' approach or view intelligent design philosophically through Aquinas' lens. The conversation navigates the intricate relationship between science and faith, advocating for a holistic educational model and celebrating the beauty of creation as a bridge between theology and scientific inquiry.

What happens when a young law student volunteers for a presidential campaign one day, only to find himself assisting with President Nixon’s memoirs and penning President Reagan’s inaugural address the next? Through these surreal experiences, what did Ken Khachigian learn about his presidents, himself, and the complexity of human nature? Join me and Ken Khachigian as we discuss his gripping memoir, Behind Closed Doors: In the Room with Reagan and Nixon.  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.

Fr. Justin Bolger, a Dominican friar and member of The Hillbilly Thomists, shares insights on the band's unique blend of bluegrass and spirituality. They explore how their faith influences their creative process and discuss their latest work, 'Marigold,' reflecting themes of hope and resilience. The conversation touches on their musical roots, the art of collaborative songwriting, and the profound connection between their Dominican identity and the narratives woven into their songs. Discover how music serves as both a form of expression and an evangelization tool.

In this engaging discussion, award-winning poet and Catholic convert Sally Read reveals how poetry intertwines with faith. She explains that poetry is akin to prayer and highlights the cultural impact of Catholic poetry through the ages. Read shares her transformative journey from atheism to embracing the Catholic faith, emphasizing how literature can deepen one's spiritual connection. The conversation also touches on the evolution of poetic forms, the significance of accessibility, and her efforts in curating '100 Great Catholic Poems,' illuminating the beauty of faith through art.

Bishop Robert Barron, the Bishop of Winona-Rochester and founder of Word on Fire, dives into the essential components of democracy. He discusses the moral foundations of governance, referencing historical figures like John Adams and the potential dangers of neglecting these roots. The conversation highlights the paradoxes within democratic systems, advocating for informed citizenry and civil discourse. Barron also addresses the complexities of a post-religious society and the importance of community engagement in maintaining democratic values.

In this engaging discussion, Patrick Deneen, a political theory professor at the University of Notre Dame and author, critiques the failures of liberalism. He explores how its evolution led to a freedom centered on personal desires rather than virtue. Deneen compares societal changes to a boiling frog, warning of cultural degradation masked as progress. He advocates for a resurgence of traditional values and community engagement, arguing that true freedom must intertwine with virtue and moral responsibility. His insights reveal a path forward amid the challenges of modern society.

In this enlightening discussion, Gary Saul Morson, an esteemed professor of Russian literature, dives into Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn's provocative 1978 Harvard address. He unpacks its critiques of legalism and elite conformity, emphasizing how these hinder true moral engagement. Morson explores Solzhenitsyn's legacy, where courage in the face of oppression is central, and highlights the risks of groupthink in modern journalism. This conversation sheds light on the importance of seeking genuine truths amid cultural complacency.

G.K. Chesterton once observed, “What the world wants, what the world is waiting for, is not Modern Poetry or Classical Poetry or Neo-Classical Poetry—but Good Poetry.” Well, have I got some good poetry for you! Join me and award-winning poet James Matthew Wilson as we delve into why poetry matters and unpack excerpts from his new book, Saint Thomas and the Forbidden Birds. 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.

Contrary to the opinion of many outside of the Catholic Church, Mary is not worshiped—she is loved and venerated. As the earthly Mother of God, Mary prays with us and for us, forever telling us what she told friends at the Wedding at Cana, “Do whatever Jesus tells you.” Join me and journalist Alexandra DeSanctis as we explore the strength and beauty of the Mother of God and just why Mary matters. 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.