Avoiding Babylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Dr. Taylor Marshall joins Avoiding Babylon and first explores Pope Leo XIV's first months leading the Catholic Church and what this new papacy means for traditional Catholics worldwide. After more than a decade of restrictions under Pope Francis, Marshall advocates patience and prayer as Leo navigates Vatican politics while showing promising signs of respect for tradition.The conversation delves into Marshall's thoughtful distinction between modern Christian nationalism and authentic Catholic patriotism. His forthcoming book "Christian Patriot: 12 Ways to Create One Nation Under God" offers a roadmap for cultural renewal grounded in natural law, Church teaching, and the social kingship of Christ. Unlike many Protestant approaches to Christian politics, Marshall draws from the rich tradition of Catholic social thought dating back to St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas.Demographics emerge as a powerful undercurrent in the discussion, with traditional Catholic communities growing through significantly higher birth rates while progressive parishes struggle to maintain attendance. Marshall projects that this "demographics is destiny" reality will inevitably reshape the Church regardless of current policies or restrictions. The hosts explore how America's unique Catholic landscape differs from the more secularized European context, creating both challenges and opportunities.The episode takes a fascinating turn as Marshall shares Catholic perspectives on apocalyptic prophecy that contrast sharply with popular dispensationalist interpretations, particularly regarding Israel and end-times events. Throughout, Marshall maintains that regardless of whether we face minor tribulations or major apocalyptic events, Catholics are called to consistent faithfulness—loving enemies while building cultures that reflect Christ's teachings.Pre-order Marshall's book at ChristianPatriotBook.com and discover a compelling vision for cultural renewal rooted in the Catholic intellectual tradition.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!When Catholic content creators cross the line, who's left to speak the uncomfortable truth? This raw, unfiltered conversation dives deep into the troubling trend of Catholic women discussing intimate details of their marriages publicly while simultaneously lecturing men about modesty and self-control.The viral clip featuring Lila Rose sparked intense debate about appropriate boundaries in Catholic discourse. But beneath the surface lies a more fundamental question: Why are married women positioning themselves as authorities on men's struggles? This episode examines the phenomenon of Catholic "e-girls" who use their appearance to build platforms while seemingly contradicting their own messages about objectification. It's narcissism veiled as virtue, and it's pushing many young Catholic men toward more extreme ideologies.Beyond the online world, we tackle the crisis of modern parenting, where parents push their daughters toward debt-laden college paths for social status rather than preparing them for fulfilling lives as wives and mothers. We offer practical alternatives that preserve femininity while developing useful skills—like esthetician training or at-home businesses that complement rather than compete with family life.At its core, this conversation reveals a crisis of fatherhood extending from homes to parishes. Men have largely ceded the public arena to women, and reclaiming it requires courage to speak uncomfortable truths. The weight of spiritual leadership placed on men should be terrifying—they are the Christ figure to their families and will answer to God for how they ruled their households.Have you noticed this troubling trend in Catholic spaces? Join the conversation and share your thoughts on restoring appropriate boundaries in how we discuss faith, family, and relationships.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Is the Catholic Church facing a demographic apocalypse or a traditional revival? This riveting conversation dives deep into the statistical realities reshaping Catholic parishes across America as the boomer generation begins to pass away.Two passionate young Catholics debate whether data suggests an impending collapse of Novus Ordo parishes or if reports of Catholicism's demise are greatly exaggerated. Ryan presents compelling statistics: parishes losing approximately 13 weekly Mass attendees annually to death, retention rates plummeting to 32% for those raised in the post-Vatican II liturgy, and traditional Latin Mass communities growing with 75% retention and fertility rates of 3.4 children per woman. Meanwhile, Hoosier argues for cautious optimism, pointing to stabilization in certain metrics and questioning whether liturgical form alone determines parish vitality.Beyond the numbers, this discussion explores the profound connection between liturgical practice and faith transmission. When ritual - the foundation of religious identity - undergoes dramatic change, what happens to cultural memory and intergenerational faith? Both debaters, though sometimes disagreeing on trajectory, share a deep love for the Church and concern for its future.The conversation weaves through fascinating territory: the experiential catechesis provided by reverent worship, the impact of Vatican II reforms beyond just the Mass, the surprising growth of traditional practices among younger Catholics, and what might constitute an authentic Catholic revival in modern America. Whether you're interested in Catholic demographics, liturgical debates, or the broader question of how religious identity survives in secular times, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives from faithful Catholics trying to understand where their Church is headed.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Catholic media stands at a crossroads as Vatican strategies collide with the reality of online Catholic content creation. This episode pulls back the curtain on Michael Lofton's recent Vatican visit for a digital media influencer conference, revealing fascinating tensions between traditional Catholic voices and the Vatican's apparent desire to control Catholic messaging online.We examine compelling footage of Catholic influencers wandering the Vatican, making connections, and positioning themselves as bridges between Rome and the online faithful. The speculation around Pope Leo potentially addressing social media in an upcoming encyclical raises profound questions: Will we soon see Vatican-approved "verified" Catholic content creators? What happens to traditional Catholic voices in such a system? The potential for a further divided Catholic media landscape looms large as institutional authority meets grassroots Catholic content.The conversation shifts to a broader examination of Catholic influencer culture, particularly among female personalities whose recent online behavior demonstrates how far "conservative" influencers often stray from authentic Catholic values. This leads to a captivating exploration of Christianity's civilizing influence throughout history - how the Gospel eliminated human sacrifice, established orphanages, protected the vulnerable, and elevated women's dignity in ways modern feminism fails to acknowledge.Throughout, we maintain our trademark blend of serious theological reflection and lighthearted banter, providing insights you simply won't find in mainstream Catholic media. Whether you're concerned about the direction of Catholic social media, curious about Vatican communications strategy, or interested in Christianity's historical impact on civilization, this episode delivers thought-provoking perspective that challenges conventional narratives.Ready for more unfiltered Catholic commentary? Join us on Locals for extended discussions on AI dangers, Dave Ramsey's questionable marriage advice, and other topics too spicy for YouTube.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!When a firearms controversy provokes deep reflection on institutional integrity, we discover uncomfortable truths about how organizations respond to criticism. This episode examines the troubling story of the Sig Sauer P320 pistol—a weapon linked to unexpected discharges including the recent death of an Air Force airman—and the company's defensive, gaslighting response that prioritized corporate reputation over customer safety.But this isn't merely about firearms. The parallels to challenges within the Catholic Church are striking and profound. When confronted with legitimate concerns—whether about controversial liturgical practices or declining parish demographics—institutional defenders often employ identical tactics: dismissing critics as "grifters," labeling them "anti-Catholic," and refusing to acknowledge uncomfortable realities.These defensive postures ultimately undermine the very credibility they seek to protect. When potential converts are given sanitized versions of Church realities only to discover the full picture after commitment, the result is often disillusionment and departure. The statistics regarding those who leave within years of completing OCIA (formerly RCIA) suggest the high cost of such approaches.Christ identified Himself as "the way, the truth, and the life"—a profound reminder that truthfulness isn't optional for Christians, but essential to our identity. The Church, as Christ's spotless bride, doesn't require defenders who obscure reality. It needs witnesses confident enough in its divine foundations to acknowledge its human complexities."Present the church as it is," our host reminds us, "it's enough." This simple yet powerful statement captures the essence of authentic evangelization—one built on transparent truth rather than managed perception. The Church can withstand honest scrutiny precisely because its foundations are divine, even when its members are flawed. How might our witness change if we embraced this principle?Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!This episode dives deep into a controversial topic that's increasingly dividing Catholic circles: Is it acceptable to criticize post-conciliar popes? We examine how modern Church leaders often seem reluctant to boldly proclaim traditional Catholic teachings, instead offering apologies for historical Church actions like the Crusades and Inquisition.The cultural divide between cradle Catholics and converts becomes evident as we discuss how differently they perceive papal criticism. Many who entered the Church under Pope Francis's pontificate struggle with the concept that one can question certain papal statements while remaining faithful to the Church herself. This dynamic creates fascinating tensions in how Catholics understand their relationship with Church authority.Between theological discussions, we explore broader cultural phenomena that reflect similar themes of institutional weakness. From a woman wanting to divorce her "perfect" husband because she "can't find herself," to fitness influencer Joey Swoll's groveling apology for commemorating Hulk Hogan, we witness how quickly people abandon reasonable positions when faced with criticism or emotional discomfort.Whether examining Cardinal Tagle leading jean-clad influencers in prayer at the Vatican or the differences between traditional and progressive Catholic approaches, this episode provides a thoughtful, nuanced exploration of how to remain faithful while engaging critically with Church leadership. Join us as we navigate the delicate balance between respectful obedience and necessary critique in today's complex Catholic landscape.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Civilization stands at a precipice. The signs are unmistakable – devalued currency, collapsing birthrates, cultural decay, and the fading remnants of once-Christian institutions. But what does this mean for faithful Catholics trying to navigate these turbulent times?Theo Howard of the Two Cities podcast joins us for a profound conversation about the coming collapse of Western civilization and the Catholic response. Rather than another doomer analysis, this discussion offers a roadmap for hope and renewal through what Howard calls "the Little Way of Christendom" – building parallel structures that can weather the storm while preserving authentic faith.We explore how the modern world isn't merely post-Christian but apostate – having received divine grace and deliberately rejected it – making our sins far more grievous than those of pre-Christian pagans. Howard compellingly argues that we're living through the Passion of the Church, a mysterious parallel to Christ's own suffering that will ultimately lead to resurrection.The conversation takes us through the failures of political solutions, including the false promise of electoral politics that functions as a "counterfeit liturgical calendar," distracting Catholics from living according to the Church's authentic rhythms. We examine how COVID served as a warning and test of faith, separating those willing to sacrifice for principle from those who surrendered for convenience.Most importantly, we discuss practical steps for building resilient Catholic communities – from agriculture to education to economic networks – that can function outside corrupted systems. This isn't about withdrawal but about creating the seeds of a renewed Christendom that will flourish after the inevitable chastisement runs its course.For anyone concerned about the future of faith and civilization, this conversation offers not just analysis but a genuinely Catholic path forward. Listen now and discover how small, faithful communities built on tradition can become the foundation for rebirth in a post-collapse world.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Have you ever wondered what happened after the Book of Acts closes? The story of Christianity's explosive growth through the ancient world might be the most thrilling chapter in Church history you've never fully explored.Joshua Charles, founder of Eternal Christendom, takes us on a captivating journey through the grand narrative of salvation history, revealing how Greek philosophy, Roman order, and Hebrew revelation converged at the perfect moment for Christ's arrival. This isn't just ancient history—it's the story we're still living today.Discover how the early Church Fathers understood prophecy unfolding before their eyes as pagan temples fell and Christian altars rose across the empire. Learn why St. Thomas Aquinas identified "obedience to the Roman Church" as the mysterious restrainer mentioned in Scripture, and why this matters for our current moment.The conversation ventures into fascinating territory as Joshua addresses the recurring biblical motif of older and younger brothers—from Cain and Abel to Judaism and Christianity—and how this ancient rivalry appears headed toward an eschatological climax. What role will each "brother" play in the end times? The answers might surprise you.For those feeling anxious about world events, Joshua offers a perspective that's both sobering and hopeful: "When things appear worst here on earth, they're actually getting closer to the greatest triumph of all time." This understanding helps Catholics maintain peace amid turmoil, focusing on loving those directly before us rather than being consumed by distant events beyond our control.Support Eternal Christendom's mission of making the Church Fathers accessible to all at eternalchristendom.com, where over 1.3 million words of Catholic wisdom await you completely free.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!When evangelical leader Charlie Kirk declared "the antidote to feminism is our Lady," Catholics across social media took notice. His surprising admission that "we as Protestants and Evangelicals under-venerate Mary" has sparked intense conversation about whether the prominent conservative commentator might be on a path toward Rome.The statement represents a significant theological shift for Kirk, who went on to praise Mary as "a phenomenal example and a counter to so much of the toxicity of feminism in the modern era." While careful not to overstate what's happening, we examine this moment through a Catholic lens, exploring how devotion to Mary has historically led many Protestant thinkers toward Catholic teaching. Reports that Kirk has been attending weekday Mass with his wife add an intriguing dimension to the discussion.We also revisit Michael Knowles' earlier conversation with Kirk about Catholicism, analyzing the challenges of interfaith dialogue when trying to balance friendship with proclamation of Catholic truth. This leads us to reflect on our own deep devotion to Our Lady and why Mary holds such transformative power in drawing people to the fullness of faith. As one of us admits, "I'm a mama's boy when it comes to Our Lady"—a sentiment that resonates with many converts who found their way to Catholicism through growing appreciation for the Mother of God.Whether Kirk's comments represent genuine theological exploration or merely an attempt to connect with his Catholic audience remains to be seen. But history suggests that once someone begins to soften their heart toward Mary, a deeper journey often follows. Join us for this fascinating analysis of a potentially pivotal moment in contemporary Christian dialogue.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The Catholic internet was shaken by revelations about Voice of Reason, a rising Catholic apologist who allegedly engaged in a decade-long pattern of manipulating vulnerable women while presenting himself as a defender of the faith. This raw, unfiltered conversation dives deep into the spiritual dangers of leading a double life and the devastating consequences when those in positions of Catholic influence betray the trust placed in them.We examine how Voice of Reason allegedly used his role as a catechist to obtain contact information from young women, including a disturbing claim of grooming a minor. The conversation tackles difficult questions: What responsibility do Catholic communities have when confronted with such behavior? How should we balance mercy with accountability? And what guardrails should exist to prevent those with serious moral failings from continuing in public ministry?Beyond the individual case, we explore broader spiritual lessons about the damaging effects of sins against chastity. "The devil rejoices the most in carnal sins because they are the easiest to trick men into and the hardest to draw men away from," notes Christian, highlighting how St. Thomas Aquinas warned that lust particularly wounds one's rationality and spiritual life. This leads to a compelling discussion about how many Catholics today treat confession as a "revolving door" without genuine commitment to change.Parents will find valuable insights about protecting children in the digital age, where "every text conversation is a near occasion of sin for young people." The hosts emphasize practical strategies for teaching youth about online safety and the permanent nature of digital communications. "Nothing you do online is ever private," Anthony warns, suggesting parents use this scandal as a teaching moment.We invite you to join this crucial conversation about maintaining authentic Catholic witness in a digital world full of temptations. Subscribe, share with those who might benefit from these difficult but necessary discussions, and remember that true Catholic faith demands not just knowledge but transformation.Support the showSponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssRumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon