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!Our digital personas often reveal more about us than we intend, especially when the veil of anonymity gets pulled back. In this provocative episode, we navigate the murky waters of online identity after a Catholic Twitter personality's troubling past came to light through digital detective work.Where do we draw the ethical line between legitimate privacy concerns and accountability for our words and actions? As we examine this case study, we confront an uncomfortable truth: the mask of anonymity may hide our face from others, but not from God. "Being nameless doesn't make you bodiless," as one of our hosts pointedly observes. "It just makes your sins feel separate from you, but it's still you at the end of the day."The conversation expands into broader theological territory as we dissect a controversial video of a deaf priest consecrating the Eucharist through sign language. This unprecedented situation raises profound questions about sacramental validity that traditional Catholic theology never had to address. We also take Apple TV to task for a shockingly blasphemous scene depicting characters treating consecrated hosts as snacks – highlighting the entertainment industry's troubling comfort with disrespecting Catholic traditions.Later, we transition to relationships and marriage, offering a counterpoint to popular Catholic dating advice that often misses the mark. Our candid discussion covers the dynamics of authority in marriage, the importance of masculine leadership, and why maintaining attraction matters in long-term relationships. Whether you're navigating online Catholic spaces or seeking to build a faith-centered relationship, this episode offers both spiritual wisdom and practical guidance for living authentically in a digital age where appearances often overshadow substance.Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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!Fresh from his trip to Greece, Anthony shares fascinating observations about Orthodox devotional practices and the stark cultural differences he experienced compared to Rome. This frames a substantive discussion about Bishop Martin's dramatic reversal on Latin Mass restrictions in Charlotte—extending permissions that were initially set to expire. The timing of this decision, coinciding with Cardinal Roche's audience with Pope Leo, suggests significant developments in Rome's approach to traditional liturgy.We dive into the curious phenomenon of liturgical refugees—Catholics seeking authentic worship in various traditions—and the sometimes contradictory criticisms they level at each other. The irony of Eastern Catholic converts criticizing SSPX attendees highlights the complex landscape Catholics navigate in search of reverent worship. This leads to an insightful analysis of Bishop Barron's interview with Tucker Carlson, examining whether intellectual approaches to faith communication can effectively spark religious revival in a secular age.At the heart of our conversation lies a critical observation about the masculine nature of traditional worship and its power to attract young men to the faith—a dynamic often missing in contemporary parish settings where feminization has become predominant. We explore how different spiritual temperaments respond to Eastern and Western approaches, while reflecting on what effective evangelization requires in our modern context.The discussion extends beyond ecclesiastical matters to examine concerning geopolitical developments, particularly Ukraine's targeting of Russia's nuclear capabilities and the implications for global stability. We conclude with reflections on advancing AI technology and its potential threats to privacy, security, and authentic human connection.Join us for this wide-ranging conversation that connects liturgical preferences to deeper questions about Catholic identity, masculine spirituality, and navigating faith in an increasingly unstable world.Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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 battle for the soul of Catholic worship intensifies as the Diocese of Charlotte announces an accelerated ban on the Traditional Latin Mass. What begins as a casual conversation between friends quickly transforms into an impassioned exploration of liturgical identity, ecclesiastical authority, and the deeper tensions dividing today's Church.When Bishop Michael Martin of Charlotte announced the Traditional Latin Mass would be prohibited in parish churches, he likely didn't anticipate the firestorm it would ignite among faithful Catholics. We dive deep into the diocese's internal memo—a document filled with contradictions that suggests Latin Mass attendees should "do penance" while simultaneously calling for unity. The irony is palpable: a bishop eliminating a form of worship because he doesn't appreciate those who prefer it, while claiming to act in the name of harmony.The conversation broadens to examine the theological underpinnings of modern liturgical conflicts. Is this merely about preferences, or does it reveal something more fundamental about competing visions of Catholicism? We explore how the implementation of Traditionis Custodes seems designed to marginalize traditionalists rather than integrate them, highlighting the curious paradox of Church leaders who claim to value diversity while actively suppressing traditional expressions of faith.Most fascinating is the timing of this decision, coming during the transition to Pope Leo XIV's pontificate. Is this an attempt to force the new pope's hand on a divisive issue? Throughout history, every heresy has represented a battle for the soul of Christendom—and perhaps today's liturgical wars are simply the latest chapter in this eternal struggle between continuity and rupture, between preserving tradition and embracing modernity.Whether you're a devoted traditionalist, a committed Novus Ordo Catholic, or simply curious about the internal dynamics of today's Church, this episode offers rare insight into one of the most consequential religious conflicts of our time. The question remains: can authentic unity ever be achieved through suppression?Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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 world is experiencing a bizarre phenomenon in the early days of Pope Leo XIV's papacy - a "cafeteria papacy" where both traditionalists and progressives are selectively highlighting different aspects of the same papal statements to claim the new pontiff as their own.When Pope Leo speaks about dignity and tradition, conservative Catholics celebrate these as signs of a return to orthodoxy after the turbulent Francis years. When he mentions synodality or continuity with his predecessor, progressive Catholics claim validation for their preferred direction. This selective interpretation reveals more about the fractured state of Catholic media than about Leo himself, who has yet to make definitive statements on controversial issues. The appointment of Cardinal Raina to the John Paul II Institute perfectly exemplifies this dynamic, with both sides claiming the same action supports their narrative.Meanwhile, a disturbing trend has emerged alongside this media frenzy: AI-generated videos purporting to show Pope Leo delivering apocalyptic messages about the end times. One such fake sermon has garnered hundreds of thousands of views, with comments sections filled with viewers who believe they're hearing authentic papal teaching. As this technology rapidly advances, the challenge of discerning truth becomes increasingly difficult, potentially undermining the decentralized media landscape the internet initially fostered.For many ordinary Catholics, especially those who felt alienated during Francis' papacy, there's a natural desire to love and support their new pope. As one priest confided, "the last 12 years were pretty traumatic for all of us," revealing how even parish clergy struggled with conflicting messages from Rome. This explains the quick pivot from initial alarm to cautious optimism among traditionalists - not because of external pressure, but from a genuine Catholic instinct to give their new Holy Father a chance.How will you navigate this complex media landscape as Pope Leo's papacy unfolds? Join us as we continue to provide thoughtful analysis beyond the polarized narratives dominating Catholic discourse.Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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 been caught up in the wave of optimism following Pope Leo XIV's election? While there's genuine cause for celebration, this episode dives beneath the surface hype to examine the profound challenges that remain for the Catholic Church.We begin with light-hearted banter about our disappearing friend Nick who seems to have traded our show for more polished Catholic media. This sets up what unexpectedly becomes one of our most memorable segments ever - the spontaneous discovery of the Hawaiian Pigeon Bible translation. The resulting scripture readings had us (and surely you) in tears of laughter, showcasing the joy that remains at the heart of authentic Catholic community even amid serious times.When we finally compose ourselves, we tackle the substantial issues facing Pope Leo XIV. By examining Marco Rubio's thoughtful response to media attempts to politicize the papacy, we unpack how the new pope will navigate the complex relationship between Catholic teaching and geopolitical realities. The heart of our conversation explores a sobering reality: the divisions within Catholicism may be too profound to heal. Can Pope Leo possibly reconcile traditional Catholics with progressive German bishops who essentially practice a different religion? We analyze insights from Father Isaac and Father Murray about the fundamental problems in the Church that transcend any single papacy, from liturgical issues to doctrinal confusion dating back to Vatican II.What makes this episode particularly valuable is our refusal to settle for simplistic narratives. While acknowledging the relief of having a pope who doesn't seem hostile to traditionalists, we remain clear-eyed about the long journey ahead for authentic Catholic restoration. We conclude with practical reflections on how traditional practices like fasting can transform spiritual life regardless of Vatican politics.Whether you're feeling hopeful, concerned, or simply confused about the Church's direction, this episode offers both the levity of authentic fellowship and the depth of honest analysis. Share your thoughts with us - what do you believe Pope Leo needs to prioritize in these challenging times?Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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 election of Pope Leo XIV—the first American pontiff—has sparked fresh hope and cautious optimism in a Catholic world still recovering from the polarizing Francis years. In this candid conversation, Rob and Anthony explore the fascinating phenomenon of how both traditionalist and progressive Catholics initially believe Leo XIV is "their guy," despite the deep divisions that remain within the Church.We dive into Vatican insider Edward Penton's revelations about the conclave's voting patterns, discovering how Cardinal Prevost emerged as the compromise candidate when votes for clearly conservative or progressive cardinals became hopelessly split. Most intriguingly, contrary to Italian media reports, Cardinal Burke never received the future Pope in his apartment—dispelling rumors of pre-conclave lobbying.The Pope's brother Lou offers unique insights into Leo's character, suggesting that while he may hold some progressive views on certain issues, he remains firmly grounded in Catholic doctrine. This middle-path approach has many Catholics feeling a tremendous sense of relief after years of hostility, with one commentator poignantly noting: "I can't even tell you what that feels like to go in and not feel like your father hates you."Through liturgical gestures like wearing traditional papal regalia and incorporating Latin, Pope Leo appears to be extending olive branches to traditionalists while maintaining continuity with Vatican II. Yet the fundamental question remains: can this approach sustain itself when eventually he must make decisions that will disappoint one side or the other?Whether you're a traditionalist hopeful for restoration or a progressive seeking continued evolution, this episode offers thoughtful perspective on what may be the slowing—but not the end—of the post-Vatican II revolution. Join us as we navigate these fascinating times in Church history and contemplate what Leo's pontificate might mean for Catholics worldwide.Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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 world has been thrown into a whirlwind of emotions following the unexpected election of Pope Leo XIV. This episode captures the raw, unfiltered reactions of faithful Catholics as they process what this papacy might mean for the Church.When white smoke appeared during the fourth scrutiny—much earlier than anticipated—Catholics everywhere experienced a complex mixture of surprise, concern, and hope. We delve into the fascinating psychological and spiritual journey many traditional Catholics experienced: from initial apprehension about Cardinal Prevost's connections to progressive figures in the Church, to a growing desire to embrace and support the new Holy Father.The conversation explores profound questions about Catholic identity in turbulent times. What does proper loyalty to the Pope look like when concerns about doctrine exist? How do we balance filial devotion with fidelity to established Church teaching? When does legitimate concern become detraction, and when does silence become complicity?At the heart of the discussion is a touchingly honest admission: "I want to love the Holy Father, dude. I think we all just miss being Catholic and loving the Pope." This sentiment captures the yearning many Catholics feel after years of tension and division within the Church.The episode also examines potential "litmus tests" for Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, particularly regarding controversial aspects of his predecessor's teaching like Amoris Laetitia. While some focus on doctrinal clarity as paramount, others highlight the cultural importance of liturgical traditions like the Latin Mass in forming future generations of faithful Catholics.Throughout the conversation runs a thread of cautious hope—not naive optimism, but a genuine desire to see healing and restoration in the Church under this new shepherd. Whether you're feeling confusion, concern, or excitement about this new chapter in Catholic history, this discussion offers thoughtful perspectives to help navigate these uncharted waters.Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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!LANGUAGE WARNINGThe Catholic world has witnessed a seismic shift with the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff in history. In this riveting conversation, Tim Gordon joins Anthony and Rob to dissect what this unexpected papal selection truly means for the faithful.From the moment white smoke billowed over the Sistine Chapel after just four ballots, something extraordinary was happening. Despite media speculation focusing on candidates like Cardinals Sarah, Parolin, and Tagle, it was the relatively unknown Cardinal Robert Prevost who emerged as Pope. But was this truly a surprise? Tim Gordon's prescient analysis suggests otherwise.We explore the fascinating connections between Pope Leo XIV and key figures from the Francis pontificate, including Cardinals Cupich and Maradiaga. The discussion reveals how the Sankt Gallen group's influence persists through a new generation, orchestrating what appears to be a carefully planned continuation of Francis's vision—albeit with a more traditional presentation.The symbolism is striking: a Pope who steps onto the loggia in full traditional papal regalia while simultaneously emphasizing synodality and progressive themes in his first address. This duality creates a compelling narrative of a pontificate that may offer liturgical concessions to traditionalists while firmly maintaining the doctrinal direction established under Francis. What makes this transition particularly fascinating is the new Pope's American background. As Tim points out, Pope Leo XIV understands the American Catholic media landscape in ways Francis never could, potentially positioning him to navigate and neutralize resistance more effectively than his predecessor.For faithful Catholics wrestling with these developments, this conversation offers invaluable perspective on maintaining faith during ecclesiastical turbulence. Rather than succumbing to despair or false hope, the hosts advocate for steadfast commitment to Catholic practice while remaining clear-eyed about the challenges ahead.Whatever your position on recent Church developments, this thoughtful analysis provides essential context for understanding what may be one of the most consequential papal transitions of our lifetime. Subscribe now to join the conversation as we navigate this new chapter in Catholic history together.Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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!As Cardinals gather for what may be the most consequential papal election in centuries, the Catholic Church stands at a defining crossroads. The conclave beginning May 7th occurs amid unprecedented circumstances – 80% of voting Cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis, yet most have never met each other due to Francis's unusual decision never to convene a full consistory.Behind the scenes, surprising dynamics are emerging. Reports suggest even Cardinals previously loyal to Francis are experiencing "fatigue" with his progressive agenda. Cardinal Maradiaga allegedly left Rome in anger, accusing fellow Cardinals of being "Francis turncoats" unwilling to continue his revolutionary path. Meanwhile, Cardinal Stella, once among Francis's closest advisors, publicly criticized aspects of his papacy immediately after his death.The possibility of deadlock looms large. With the requirement for a two-thirds majority (89 votes) and deep ideological divides, finding consensus could prove extraordinarily difficult. Traditionalists see this potential delay as positive – the longer the conclave, the more likely Cardinals will resist progressive candidates and seek compromise.What makes this moment truly pivotal is the recognition that the Church already exists in a state of material schism. The election outcome could either formalize this division or begin healing it. If a traditional Pope emerges, progressives might revolt; if another revolutionary is chosen, traditionalists may reach their breaking point. Several Cardinals have emerged as serious contenders, including the surprising possibility of Patriarch Pizzaballa of Jerusalem, whose election on May 13th (Feast of Our Lady of Fatima) would carry profound symbolic weight.Whatever the outcome, faithful Catholics face a continuing struggle – either fighting alongside a traditional Pope against worldly opposition or persevering under hostile leadership. As we await white smoke above St. Peter's, join us in praying that the Holy Spirit guides these men to choose a shepherd who will lead the Church back to its foundations rather than further into revolution.Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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 77-year-old priest Father Charles Murr gets behind the microphone, he doesn't just share memories – he unveils a chilling narrative about the systematic dismantling of Catholic tradition that he's witnessed since his ordination in 1977. What makes this conversation extraordinary isn't just the historical perspective, but Father Murray's personal proximity to pivotal Vatican events that changed the Church forever.The picture Father Murr paints is startling. From the glory days of America's Catholic education system where tuition cost just $15 per year and devoted nuns taught packed classrooms, to the bewildering exodus of 500,000 religious sisters and 10,000 Jesuit priests after Vatican II. His most explosive revelations concern alleged Freemason infiltration at the highest levels of Church governance – including the architect of the Novus Ordo Mass and the cardinal responsible for appointing bishops worldwide.Father Murr's firsthand account of Pope John Paul I's mysterious death after just 33 days in office reads like a spiritual thriller. As someone who drove Cardinal Gagnon to audiences with both John Paul I and John Paul II, his perspective on what happened behind closed Vatican doors offers rare insight into one of the Church's most perplexing moments. The connection between John Paul I's confrontation with corrupt officials and his sudden death raises questions that still linger today.Despite witnessing decades of institutional deterioration and what he calls "the greatest crisis in 2,000 years of Church history," Father Murr maintains a surprising optimism about the upcoming conclave. His assessment of the cardinal electors, particularly those from Africa and Asia, suggests that divine intervention could still turn the tide. For anyone seeking to understand why traditional Catholics view the coming papal election as a pivotal moment for civilization itself, this conversation provides essential context and unexpected hope.Sponsored 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🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6029316625530880Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/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