The Thomistic Institute
The Thomistic Institute
The Thomistic Institute exists to promote Catholic truth in our contemporary world by strengthening the intellectual formation of Christians at universities, in the Church, and in the wider public square. The thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the Universal Doctor of the Church, is our touchstone.
The Thomistic Institute Podcast features the lectures and talks from our conferences, campus chapters events, intellectual retreats, livestream events, and much more.
Founded in 2009, the Thomistic Institute is part of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC.
The Thomistic Institute Podcast features the lectures and talks from our conferences, campus chapters events, intellectual retreats, livestream events, and much more.
Founded in 2009, the Thomistic Institute is part of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington, DC.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 30, 2025 • 49min
Free Will and the Brain | Fr. Anselm Ramelow, O.P.
Fr. Anselm Ramelow, O.P., a philosophy professor at the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology, delves into the complexities of free will. He discusses how societal norms and brain activity shape our understanding of choices and happiness. The podcast highlights Benjamin Libet's findings on brain activity preceding decisions, raising questions about moral responsibility. Ramelow also explores Aquinas' teachings on the constraints of human choice, asserting that despite influences, free will remains a significant aspect of our identity.
Jun 27, 2025 • 36min
Could God Weep or Feel Pain? Christ's Assumption of Human Suffering for Our Sake I Prof. Paul Gondreau
In this thought-provoking discussion, Professor Paul Gondreau, a theology expert at Providence College, dives into whether God can truly experience human emotions and suffering. He examines Christ’s full humanity and the implications of early heresies like docetism. Gondreau shares insights from St. Thomas Aquinas on the dual nature of Christ, emphasizing how His divine experience encompasses human emotions like sorrow and empathy. This exploration reframes our understanding of God’s relationship with human pain and suffering.
Jun 26, 2025 • 1h 2min
God on a Cross: The Meaning of the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus I Fr. Thomas Petri, O.P.
Fr. Thomas Petri, President of the Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception, delves into the deep meaning behind Christ's passion, death, and resurrection. He discusses humanity's original state and the effects of sin, emphasizing how Christ's sacrifice restores our relationship with God. Key insights include the transformative nature of Christ’s suffering and its connections to the sacramental life, focusing on the Last Supper's profound teachings. Petri invites listeners to enrich their spiritual lives and embrace a journey towards divine union.
Jun 25, 2025 • 47min
Is Anything More Tortuous than the Human Heart? I Prof. Steven Jensen
Prof. Steven Jensen, a philosophy professor at the University of St. Thomas, dives deep into the intricate relationship between emotions and will. He discusses how feelings like love, guilt, and pride influence moral decision-making. Jensen analyzes the cycles of envy and despair, highlighting their destructive impact on individuals and society. He underscores the role of love and meaning in overcoming these challenges, emphasizing the complexities of the human heart and the moral psychology behind our passions.
Jun 24, 2025 • 48min
Pope John Paul II's Salvifici Doloris I Prof. Gina Noia
In this engaging discussion, Gina Noia, a theology expert and clinical ethicist, tackles profound themes of suffering and salvation in the Catholic faith. She explores how Christ's suffering deepens our understanding of human pain, alongside ethical dilemmas in medical decisions like euthanasia. Through a hypothetical breast cancer case, she illustrates the intersection of Catholic teachings and patient choices. Noia emphasizes the critical role of palliative care, advocating for empathy in alleviating the struggles of the terminally ill.
Jun 23, 2025 • 47min
Suffering and End-of-Life Care I Prof. Gina Noia
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.
Jun 20, 2025 • 1h 1min
The Wedding Supper of the Lamb I Prof. Paul Gondreau
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.
Jun 19, 2025 • 55min
Corpus Christi and the Mystery of the Eucharist I Fr. Innocent Smith, O.P.
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.
Jun 18, 2025 • 40min
Aquinas the DJ: Tradition and Invention in the Corpus Christi Liturgy | Fr. Innocent Smith, O.P.
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.
Jun 17, 2025 • 33min
Is the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in "Accordance with the Scriptures"? I Prof. Gary Anderson
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.
