The Thomistic Institute

Gina Noia, an Assistant Professor of Theology at Providence College and expert in healthcare ethics, dives into Catholic teachings on end-of-life care and suffering. She discusses the moral nuances between mandatory and optional treatments, illustrated by a case study of a patient with stage four breast cancer. Noia also contrasts euthanasia with compassionate care, emphasizing the importance of palliative and hospice care while debunking common misconceptions, ultimately advocating for ethical decision-making and compassionate support in challenging times.

Paul Gondreau, a theology professor at Providence College with a focus on St. Thomas Aquinas, discusses the deep significance of the Mass as the ultimate act of worship. He explores Christ's dual role as both priest and sacrificial Lamb, connecting Old Testament sacrifices to the Eucharistic celebration. Gondreau highlights the cosmic aspect of the Eucharist, emphasizing the mystery of transubstantiation and Christ's real presence. He also reflects on Aquinas' theological perspectives, bridging earthly worship with the divine liturgy.

Fr. Innocent Smith, an expert in liturgy and sacramental theology, discusses the profound impact of St. Juliana of Liège on the Feast of Corpus Christi. He delves into the evolution of Eucharistic practices and how tradition shapes faith. The guest illuminates Juliana's spiritual journey and her emotional connection to the Eucharist, while also detailing her challenges in establishing the feast. Furthermore, he reflects on key historical figures like Pope Urban IV and Thomas Aquinas, highlighting their contributions and the theological significance of the sacrament.

Fr. Innocent Smith, a Dominican priest with a passion for liturgy and sacred music, dives into Thomas Aquinas's groundbreaking contributions to liturgical music. He likens Aquinas to a DJ, blending tradition with innovation to enhance worship. The discussion reveals how Aquinas's hymns for the Feast of Corpus Christi connect deep theological insights with musical creativity. Fr. Innocent also explores the feast's origins and significant figures involved, providing a fascinating look at how older traditions can be reimagined into fresh expressions of faith.

In this enlightening discussion, Gary Anderson, Hesburgh Professor of Catholic Theology at Notre Dame, explores the deep connections between Old Testament sacramental laws and Christian theology. He highlights how these ancient practices illuminate our understanding of the Eucharist. Anderson also examines the importance of the tabernacle as a divine dwelling and its intricate narrative in scripture. Listeners will appreciate his insights on the theological significance of adoring the Blessed Sacrament and how it reverberates through the Mass.

In this engaging discussion, Bruce Marshall, Lehman Professor of Christian Doctrine at Southern Methodist University, dives deep into the significance of the Incarnation. He explores Thomas's powerful declaration of Jesus as 'my Lord and my God,' unpacking the complexities of Christ's dual nature. The conversation highlights the theological ramifications for salvation and examines the transformative connection between the Incarnation and the Eucharist, as articulated by Cyril of Alexandria. Marshall invites listeners to contemplate the life-giving mystery of sharing in the divine.

In this engaging discussion, Thomas Ward, an Associate Professor of Philosophy at Baylor University, delves into the intricate connection between being and goodness from a Thomistic perspective. He articulates how all beings inherently embody goodness, encouraging listeners to appreciate the value of creation. Ward also touches on the implications of recognizing this goodness in fostering hope. With expertise in medieval philosophy, he offers insightful reflections that connect historical thought to contemporary spirituality.

Fr. Timothy Bellamah, a Dominican priest and scholar, delves into the theological quandaries surrounding evil from a Christian perspective. He contrasts Judeo-Christian views with mythological interpretations, offering insight into how suffering challenges faith in a benevolent God. The discussion touches on the Gnostic duality of good and evil and examines historical responses from thinkers like Augustine and Aquinas. Bellamah also explores how the nature of evil relates to original sin and human actions, enriching our understanding of divine goodness.

Candace Vogler, a philosophy professor at the University of Chicago, explores the intricate relationship between moral philosophy and the concept of the highest good. She examines the philosophical evolution from ancient Greece to modern thinkers like Kant and Mill, contrasting their views with Aquinas' notion of God as ultimate goodness. Vogler delves into Aquinas' insights on beatitude and the limitations of human reason in pursuing true happiness, ultimately emphasizing the significance of divine vision and Christ's role in our moral journey.

Join Stephen Meredith, a professor at the University of Chicago specializing in pathology and philosophy, as he tackles the challenging question of why a good God allows suffering, particularly through disease. He shares poignant personal anecdotes from medical training that deepen the exploration of human suffering. The discussion covers sickle cell anemia's genetic background and its evolutionary ties to malaria. Philosophical reflections on the Book of Job and insights from thinkers like Aquinas and Hume reveal a complex interplay between good, evil, and divine purpose.