Catholic Saints

Explore the inspiring journey of St. Gatian of Tours, a little-known bishop sent from Rome to evangelize the pagan Gauls. Delve into his remarkable perseverance over fifty years of service. The hosts examine Gatian’s humble witness and sacrificial giving, essential for nurturing local holiness. Discover the legacy he left behind, including his connection to relics and the memory preserved by St. Gregory of Tours. Reflect on the importance of introducing others to Christ through humility and hidden service, illuminating the beauty of living out one's faith.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Scott Heffelfinger, a professor at the Augustine Institute and a scripture scholar, delves into the life and teachings of St. John of the Cross. He shares insights about John's challenging yet profound spirituality and the significance of his mystical poetry. The conversation touches on John's nuptial imagery, linking it to St. John Paul II's marriage theology. Dr. Heffelfinger also explores the themes of attachment, purification, and the transformative power of divine love represented by fire, making St. John’s teachings captivating and relevant today.

Dr. James Prothero, a Scripture scholar at the Augustine Institute, dives into the miraculous apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe to St. Juan Diego. He shares how this moment transformed Mexico’s spiritual landscape and highlights the profound symbols in the tilma that resonated with both Aztecs and Spaniards. Prothero reflects on the emotional impact of Marian apparitions and their place within Christian tradition. Their lively discussion touches on Juan Diego's humility, Mary's comforting words, and the significance of this event in the broader context of evangelization.

Dr. Elizabeth Klein, a Scripture scholar at the Augustine Institute, dives into the remarkable life of St. Ambrose, a bishop and Doctor of the Church. She discusses his unexpected rise to the bishopric, his ascetic lifestyle, and the profound influence he had on St. Augustine. Klein highlights Ambrose's courageous confrontation with Emperor Theodosius and his legacy of pastoral care, hymns, and liturgical reforms. Discover how Ambrose's eloquence and charity won over Augustine and shaped the future of Christianity.

St. Nicholas of Myra, born around 270 AD in Patara, Lycia (modern-day Turkey), was a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity and devotion to helping the poor. He famously provided dowries for three impoverished sisters, saving them from slavery, and became a symbol of compassion and charity. Celebrated as the patron saint of children, sailors, and merchants, his life inspired countless legends and traditions. St. Nicholas passed away on December 6, 343 AD, and his feast day is marked by acts of giving and remembrance of his selfless spirit. Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Benner Schramm, a Scripture scholar at the Augustine Institute, dives deep into the life and impact of St. John of Damascus. He explores the fascinating context of John's upbringing during Islamic conquests and his elite education. The discussion highlights John's fierce defense of icons amid the iconoclasm controversy, culminating in his persecution. Benner also touches on John's theological writings, including his arguments against heresy and contributions to Christian-Muslim dialogue. The episode wraps with insights into John’s devotion to Mary and the richness of Eastern traditions.

St. Francis Xavier, born in 1506 in Navarre, Spain, was a Jesuit missionary and one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus. Renowned for his zeal in spreading Christianity, he traveled extensively, preaching in India, Japan, and Southeast Asia, baptizing thousands. Known for his humility and dedication, he learned local languages and adapted to cultures to effectively share his faith. Francis Xavier passed away on December 3, 1552, near China, and is celebrated as the patron saint of missions and missionaries. Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

All saints had a story before they met Jesus. For St. Andrew, he was a fisherman. Hearing the call of Christ, Andrew and his brother Peter left everything behind to follow Jesus. Join Dr. Ben Akers and Mary McGeehan as they discuss St. Andrew, his life, and the example he provides to all Christians. Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed.Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed.Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Elizabeth Klein, a Theology Professor at the Augustine Institute, dives into the life of Dorothy Day, a pivotal figure in American Catholicism. They discuss her transformative conversion sparked by her daughter's baptism and her journey from communism to Catholic solidarity. Klein highlights Day’s unique role as a spiritual mother through the Catholic Worker movement, emphasizing her commitment to radical hospitality and social justice. Listeners hear about Day's integrity, pacifism, and the hope she provides to single mothers today.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Ariel Harms, a scholar specializing in saints' theology, dives deep into the life of St. Catherine of Alexandria. Known for her beauty and intellect, Catherine boldly confronted Emperor Maxentius, igniting a fierce debate with pagan philosophers that led to many conversions. Dr. Harms highlights her miraculous escape from a wheel of torture and her ultimate martyrdom for her faith. The conversation elaborates on Catherine's legacy as a patroness of scholars and offers profound lessons on courage and evangelization today.