Raymond Hain, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Providence College, explores the connections between beauty, art, and faith. He discusses how a Caravaggio painting invites contemplation on beauty's role in salvation. Delving into medieval thought, Hain highlights St. Thomas Aquinas's views on beauty as essential to joy. The tension between poetry and philosophy is examined, along with J.R.R. Tolkien's concept of 'sub-creation.' Ultimately, he presents beauty as a vital link to the divine and essential for a fulfilling life.

Nina Sophie Heereman, an Associate Professor for Sacred Scripture at St. Patrick’s Seminary, explores the deep intertwining of love and spirituality found in the Song of Songs. She discusses how this ancient text acts as a profound expression of divine love, elevating human desire beyond eroticism. Heereman also addresses contemporary interpretations of gender roles within this spiritual intimacy, revealing insights rooted in both Jewish and Christian traditions. Her insights promise a fresh take on an age-old text, making it relevant for today's seekers.

Fr. Jordan Schmidt, an assistant professor of Sacred Scripture, discusses the crucial themes of wisdom and folly in Proverbs and Sirach. He highlights the communal nature of wisdom, emphasizing its importance for character formation in young leaders. The episode portrays 'woman wisdom' as a guiding force while contrasting her with the dangers of 'woman folly.' Fr. Schmidt also underscores wise leadership's role in shaping society and the significance of intentional community relationships to cultivate spiritual growth and discernment.

Fr. Jordan Schmidt, an Assistant Professor of Sacred Scripture with a PhD in biblical studies, sheds light on the profound concept of wisdom within Catholic theology. He reflects on personal experiences that shaped his understanding of wisdom, emphasizing its accessibility. The discussion reveals wisdom as a crucial element of scripture that nurtures both practical living and a deeper relationship with God. Schmidt advocates for engaging with biblical texts as a means to develop wisdom, highlighting its transformative role in Christian life.

Nina Sophie Heereman, an Associate Professor for Sacred Scripture at St. Patrick’s Seminary & University, dives into the profound relationship between Mary and biblical wisdom. She examines the feminine portrayal of wisdom and its connections to Christ, emphasizing the soul's journey towards divine union through love. Heereman explores Mary’s unique role as the embodiment of wisdom in Christian theology, illuminating her significance in the redemption narrative. This engaging discussion merges theology with spirituality, offering deep insights into Marian devotion.

Sr. Elinor Gardner, O.P., an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Dallas, leads a thought-provoking discussion on death and human nature. She delves into Clarence Darrow's philosophical arguments against the soul and immortality, sparking a debate on empirical evidence versus ancient beliefs. The conversation also highlights St. Thomas Aquinas’s views on the immortal soul and the significance of abstract reasoning. Gardner explores early Christian beliefs about bodily resurrection, illuminating how they foster hope for eternal life.

Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P. hosts Dr. William Carroll, an expert in intellectual history and the history of science. They unpack St. Thomas Aquinas’s profound insights on creation, discussing how it intertwines with time and cosmology. The conversation reveals the historical tensions between faith and science, particularly through the Galileo-Inquisition episode. They also explore the concept of 'conceptual therapy' to tackle misconceptions in cosmology and clarify the nature of creation ex nihilo, enhancing our understanding of the relationship between existence and creation.

Fr. Gregory Pine dives into the dangers of undisciplined thinking and the need for structured thought rooted in Catholic tradition. He explores St. Thomas Aquinas' profound influence, advocating for a harmonious blend of faith and reason. Pine critiques modernity's obsession with immediate results, promoting a contemplative approach to reality. He emphasizes the importance of divine engagement and the transformative power of grace, urging listeners to find meaning in a world often steeped in nihilism.

R.J. Snell, Editor-in-Chief of Public Discourse and Director of Academic Programs at the Witherspoon Institute, discusses the crisis of meaning in modern society. He contrasts loneliness and disenchantment showcased in Elena Ferrante's fiction with the Christian vision of personhood rooted in the Trinity. Snell emphasizes the importance of community and storytelling in recovering communion and joy. He advocates for embracing the Sabbath to foster leisure and spiritual enrichment, enriching our lives through meaningful connections and shared experiences.

Candace Vogler, David B. and Clare E. Stern Professor of Philosophy at the University of Chicago, dives into the nuances of virtue in St. Thomas Aquinas' philosophy. She contrasts Aquinas' dynamic view of virtue with Aristotle's static approach, and unpacks the four cardinal virtues essential for correcting human flaws. Vogler explains how acquired virtues develop through societal influence while emphasizing the distinction between these and the divine gift of infused virtues, ultimately linking moral self-improvement to both human effort and spiritual grace.