Radio Maria England

Clement discusses the extraordinary transformation of culture brought about by Christianity and the continuing scandal of the Cross. THE FRIARSIDE airs live on Radio Maria on Monday and Tuesday at 11.15am and is rebroadcast at 11.15pm on the same day. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side. ⁠www.radiomariaengland.uk⁠

Fr Toby speaks about the danger of Christianity to totalising regimes as he looks at the Solemnity of Christ the King. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://radiomariaengland.uk/donations/

On the canonisation of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, Sr Catherine looks at holiness in everyday life and how we can attain it too. Sr Catherine Williams COLW is a member of the Community of Our Lady of Walsingham.CREDO is a programme that nourishes listeners in their Catholic faith. It airs live on Radio Maria every weekday at 4pm and is rebroadcast at 4am the following morning, as well as Saturday 4.15pm and Sunday 5pm. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side. ⁠www.radiomariaengland.uk⁠

On the First Sunday of Advent Fr Bernardino calls us to wake up and beware of spiritual drowsiness. Fr Bernardino Soukup CFR is a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal, currently based at St Patrick's Friary, Limerick, in Ireland.CREDO is a programme that nourishes listeners in their Catholic faith. It airs live on Radio Maria every weekday at 4pm and is rebroadcast at 4am the following morning, as well as 4.15pm on Saturday and 5pm on Sunday. If you enjoyed this programme, please consider supporting us with a one-off or monthly donation. It is only through the generosity of our listeners that we are able to be a Christian voice by your side. ⁠www.radiomariaengland.uk

In this engaging conversation, Sr Gemma Simmonds, a Roman Catholic theologian and author known for her work in Ignatian spirituality, shares insights from her book, *Donkey Roads and Camel Treks*. She explores the true meaning of Advent, emphasizing the importance of rekindling our desire for God and the spiritual significance of waiting. With humor, she contrasts the commercial rush of Christmas with authentic Advent reflection, and discusses using imagination in prayer to connect with the messy beauty of the Incarnation. Sr Gemma also highlights modern struggles and the hope represented in biblical prophecy.

In this enlightening discussion, John Newton, an ACN colleague, reveals the inception and global significance of Red Wednesday, emphasizing its symbolism in the fight for religious freedom. Joining him, Amy Ballock shares creative fundraising ideas and the powerful impact of solidarity and prayer for persecuted Christians. John Pontifex recalls his moving encounter with catechist Tobias in Nigeria, shedding light on the resilience of those facing persecution. Together, they highlight the importance of the Courage to be Christian award and the upcoming Mass, fostering hope and unity.

Fr Toby highlights the importance of embracing difficulties as a way to deepen our love for Christ. He reflects on Jesus' lament over Jerusalem, tying it to the themes of Advent and the expectation of trials. The discussion emphasizes preparing for personal judgment and recognizing modern pressures on faith. Advent is portrayed as a time for penance and readiness, urging believers to willingly face discomfort. Ultimately, the message is clear: embracing the cross can strengthen our relationship with Jesus.

Fr Toby explores fascinating models of the relationship between science and faith, focusing on collaboration and integration. He highlights the Catholic viewpoint advocating for harmony between Scripture and tradition, citing influential thinkers like St Augustine, St Robert Bellarmine, and St John Henry Newman. Augustine's symbolic interpretation of Genesis is discussed alongside Bellarmine's call to adapt scripture based on scientific evidence. Newman’s acceptance of evolution and geological time further illustrates the Catholic Church's dynamic approach to scientific inquiry.

Fr Toby dives into the fascinating relationship between science and faith. He introduces Barber's four models, discussing the conflict model and its historical misinterpretations, like Galileo's case. He also highlights the independence model, suggesting science and religion can coexist in separate realms. The dialogue model is explored through voices like Francis Collins, showing how science can enrich faith. Along the way, he shares personal anecdotes and addresses why some people use science to distance themselves from religion.

Fr Toby reflects on the transformative encounter between Jesus and Zacchaeus, emphasizing how this interaction shapes the Christian life. He shares how Pope Benedict's writings changed his perspective on faith by highlighting the personal nature of Christianity. Listeners learn practical ways to encounter Christ today through the Eucharist, sacraments, and prayer. The program likens radio to a sycamore tree, offering a unique vantage point for experiencing life-changing moments with God.