Pints With Aquinas

Br. Lawrence Joshua Johnson, a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal, shares his fascinating journey from a family of Protestant missionaries to his current life in Yonkers. He discusses the personal challenges of transitioning faiths and the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped his Catholic identity. Bridging Protestant and Catholic beliefs, he emphasizes the importance of meaningful dialogue and community in spiritual growth. With a balance of humor and deep insight, Br. Lawrence navigates the complexities of priesthood and the enriching aspects of religious life.

Father Chris Alar, a key figure in the Marian Fathers and host of Living Divine Mercy, explores profound themes of Divine Mercy and its relevance today. He uncovers St. Faustina's legacy, addressing misconceptions about her revelations and the importance of mercy in today's morally complex world. Alar discusses spiritual warfare and the various levels of demonic influence, emphasizing the significance of hope and reconciliation. He reflects on the transformative power of divine mercy in healing and personal growth, connecting faith with everyday life.

Explore the profound significance of Holy Week as listeners are encouraged to see Christ's sacrifice as a deeply personal act. Emphasizing the importance of embracing our struggles, the discussion highlights how recognizing vulnerability can lead to mercy and transformation. The crucifixion is framed as a source of hope, as the speaker urges everyone to surrender their fears and connect with divine love through prayer. This engaging conversation fosters a stronger faith and gratitude during this sacred time.

Fr. Jason Charron, a Ukrainian Catholic priest and educator, dives into the complexities of the 'woke right' and its relevance to traditional faith. He discusses the evolving conservative movement's intriguing shift towards Christianity amidst modern challenges. The podcast highlights the moral implications of the Ukraine conflict, exploring societal perceptions and contrasting leadership styles. Charron also reflects on religious authenticity, cultural narratives, and the vision for a monument honoring the unborn, emphasizing the significance of community and remembrance.

Discover 25 empowering rules for spiritual warfare revealed to St. Faustina, offering clear guidance for those facing trials. Dive into discussions on self-acceptance and humorously navigating social pressures. Explore the distinction between God's perfect and permissive will while fostering compassionate relationships. Listen to insights on the importance of community, humility, and standing firm in faith. Enjoy practical tips on enhancing prayer life and engaging in spiritual direction, all enriched by personal stories and audience interactions.

Fr. Gregory Pine, a Dominican friar and theology instructor, shares his insights on the digital landscape and the essence of genuine human connection. He discusses the limitations of AI in fostering real relationships and offers humorous takes on cultural perceptions of priests and cigars. The conversation delves into navigating social dynamics, the challenge of authenticity in online engagements, and the significance of community over online validation. He emphasizes joy rooted in faith and the transformative power of personal connections in the modern age.

Ismail Youssef, a former Muslim who converted to Catholicism, shares his profound journey from Islam to embracing Christianity. He discusses the stark contrasts between the teachings of both faiths, focusing on love versus violence. Ismail reflects on the emotional turmoil of leaving Islam and the impact on family relationships. He dives deep into his critical analysis of Islamic doctrines, advocating for a deeper understanding of both religions. His mission is clear: to challenge misconceptions and bring the truth of Christianity to the Muslim community.

Fr. Mark Goring, a priest from the Companions of the Cross in Ottawa, shares his insights into the dynamic interplay between charismatic renewal and traditional liturgy. He discusses miraculous healings and the transformative power of prayer, recounting inspiring personal stories. Fr. Mark emphasizes the importance of a living faith, urging Christians to engage authentically with their beliefs. He also reflects on the challenges within the Church, the need for personal solitude in nature, and the role of literature in nurturing spiritual growth.

Fr. Seraphim Baalbaki, a Franciscan Friar and scholar in computer science and theology, explores profound themes of faith and connection. He reflects on the enriching experience of traveling phone-free, emphasizing deeper human connections. They discuss visible symbols of faith, the significance of simplicity and silence in modern life, and a transformative journey in vocation discernment. Additionally, Fr. Seraphim delves into the philosophical complexities of belief versus materialism and explores the historical evidence supporting Catholicism, including miracles and their implications.

Alex Jones, CEO & Co-Founder of Hallow, shares insights about his journey creating the world’s #1 Catholic app for prayer and meditation. He discusses the app's innovative marketing that led to 18 million downloads and a vibrant user community. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity in media partnerships and the significance of humility in public discourse. Jones also shares amusing anecdotes about transitioning from sleep stories to peaceful Bible narratives, reflecting on personal growth and the transformative power of faith.