
Avoiding Babylon
Avoiding Babylon was started during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. During these difficult and dark days, when most of us were isolated from family, friends, our parishes, and even the Sacraments themselves, this channel was started as a statement of standing against the tyrannical mandates that many of us were living under. Since those early days, this channel has morphed into an amazing community of friends…no…more than friends…Christian brothers and sisters…who have grown in joy and charity. As we see it, our job here at Avoiding Babylon is to remind ourselves and those who enjoy the channel that being Catholic is a joyful and exciting experience. We seek true Catholic fraternity and eutrapelia with other Catholics who, like us, are doing their best to live out their vocation with the help of God’s Grace. Above all, we try to bring humor and joy to the craziness of this fallen world, for as Hillaire Belloc has famously said:“Wherever the Catholic sun doth shine,There’s always laughter and good red wine.At least I’ve always found it so.Benedicamus Domino!”
Latest episodes

Dec 12, 2024 • 19min
Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 12 - Jesus the Christ, the Anointed One & the Virtues of the Anointing of a Christian
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!Discover the profound significance of Christ's anointing and how it shapes our spiritual journey during this Advent season. Inspired by the teachings of Bishop Jacques Bossuet, we explore the divine roles of priest, prophet, and king that Jesus exemplifies through the Holy Ghost's sacred anointing. This episode invites you to reflect on how this anointing empowers each of us as Christians to embody royal courage, spiritual sacrifice, and a heavenly perspective, living by eternal truths rather than earthly desires. The call to gentleness, as taught by Jesus, serves as a guiding virtue to navigate the challenges of our daily lives with grace and humility.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

Dec 11, 2024 • 29min
Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 10 & 11
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!What if the divine mystery of Jesus Christ could transform your spiritual journey? Join us as we navigate the profound insights of the Gospel of John, delving into the eternal existence of the Word, both with God and as God. Our meditative reflections guide us to a deeper understanding of the Holy Trinity and the ways in which faith can illuminate our path, urging us to love and obey divine commandments.Facing technical glitches and health hurdles, we persist in our exploration of spiritual truths. With four contemplative meditations, we emphasize the transformative power of Christ's light and grace, drawing from the first chapter of John. As we reflect on the Word made flesh, we highlight the contrast between Christ's unique grace and the world's emptiness, revealing the boundless grace we receive from His fullness.Despite challenges, including a few sneezes and coughs along the way, we express heartfelt gratitude for your patience and support. Our extended episode aims to cover missed ground and keep us on track with our spiritual journey together. We invite you to embark on this reflective path, as we anticipate future discussions on Jesus Christ the Anointed One and the virtues of Christian anointing.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

Dec 11, 2024 • 1h 49min
To Be a Man, You Must Worship Like a Man with Guest Host Mike Pantile
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!Can focusing on the fundamentals of faith transform how we perceive modern Catholicism? Join us on "Avoiding Babylon" as guest host Mike Pantile leads a thought-provoking conversation. We delve into 11 or 12 points of masculine worship, offering guidance for men navigating Catholicism in the modern world. Explore the intricate balance between traditional and contemporary Catholic practices as we discuss the significance of humility, drawing inspiration from the example of Jesus Christ. Personal stories highlight the transformative power of acts like kneeling during prayer and receiving the Eucharist, challenging the perception of feminized religious practices by examining historical saints who embodied physical and spiritual strength. The conversation underscores the importance of fraternity and community within the Catholic Church, reflecting on the dynamics of fatherhood and brotherhood and their impact on men's faith today.Navigate the challenges of engaging with media and understanding the role of the papacy in modern Catholicism. We discuss the balance between reverence for the Pope and recognizing human errors within the Church, cautioning against both extreme criticism and blind idolization. Listen as we explore the ethical considerations of donating amidst scandals and controversies, advocating for informed giving aligned with personal values. Through humor, insight, and a deep commitment to nurturing a vibrant Catholic community, this episode promises to enrich your understanding of masculinity, humility, and faith in the contemporary 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

Dec 9, 2024 • 12min
Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 9 - The Handmaiden of the Lord and Virtues of the Annunciation
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!On Day 9 of our Advent meditations, we promise insights into the virtues of faith and obedience as exemplified by Mary, the new Eve. Drawing from the profound teachings of Bishop Jacques Bossuet, we reflect on Mary's acceptance of God's will and her role in the salvation narrative. Her obedience and humility stand as a stark contrast to Eve's disobedience, highlighting the significant part these virtues play in redemption. As we explore the Annunciation, we delve into Mary's holy virginity and profound humility, revealing how her purity and renunciation of worldly pleasures prepared her to be the Mother of God.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

Dec 8, 2024 • 14min
Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 8 - The Virginity of the Mother of God
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!Can an immaculate heart truly change the course of history? Join us as we unravel the mystical themes surrounding the virginity of Mary and her Immaculate Conception in an inspiring meditation that promises to deepen your understanding of faith and purity. As we journey through the eighth day of Advent meditations, we draw wisdom from the revered Bishop Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet, exploring how Mary's unwavering commitment to chastity and divine obedience serves as a beacon of spiritual guidance. These serene reflections, available across multiple platforms, are designed to offer a tranquil auditory experience, inviting listeners to engage with the profound relationship between faith, love, and divine commandments.Our discussion takes you through the intricate connection between Mary's vow of virginity and the mystery of the Virgin Birth, emphasizing its profound significance in Christian doctrine. By interpreting the Gospel of Luke, we reflect on the divine intervention that preserved Mary's purity while enabling the birth of Jesus, underscoring the vital role of the Immaculate Conception. We also tackle common misconceptions about these beliefs, aiming to illuminate the necessity of purity in understanding Christian truths. As we look forward to the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, this meditation invites you to ponder the spiritual depths of these chaste mysteries and prepare for tomorrow's exploration of the handmaiden of the Lord and the three virtues of the Annunciation.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

Dec 7, 2024 • 14min
Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 7 - The Angelic Salutation
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!What if the most pivotal moment in all of human history took place not in a grand palace but in a humble village? Journey with us as we uncover the profound mystery of the angel Gabriel's visitation to Mary, a young woman of Nazareth, as recounted in the Gospel of Luke. Drawing inspiration from the insightful homilies of Bishop Jacques Bossuet, we explore the remarkable choice of Mary to be the mother of Jesus. This episode promises to enrich your spiritual practice and deepen your understanding of the Advent season through thoughtful meditation and reflection.Join our reflective journey as we guide you through a serene meditation that invites you to embrace the mysteries of faith. With the guidance of Bishop Bossuet's writings, we'll contemplate the divine narrative and the humble beginnings of the Christmas story. Experience a renewed desire for Christ's coming as we offer a spiritual companion to enhance your Advent season. Whether you're seeking spiritual enrichment or inspiration, this episode provides a tranquil space to connect with the essence of Advent.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

Dec 6, 2024 • 20min
Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 6 - The Prophecy of David and Conception of John the Baptist
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 felt the profound connection between music and spirituality? Discover the "gospel in song" as we journey into Day 6 of our Advent meditations, guided by the insightful reflections of Bishop Jacques Bossuet. Today, we explore the prophetic vision of David, celebrating the coming of Jesus as the sovereign king through the Psalms. These sacred songs illuminate Christ's miracles, suffering, and ascension, revealing David's deep spiritual bond and devotion to God's heart. Join us in honoring this cherished figure as we anticipate the glorious coming of Christ.Adding a personal touch, my son Matthias joins our streaming adventure, bringing a family flare to our Advent gatherings. As we prepare for the weekend, I am grateful for your participation and eager to guide you through more meditations—from the conception of John the Baptist to the angelic announcement to Mary. On Sunday, we will begin our exploration into the virginity of the Mother of God and delve into the richness of Mariology. Thank you for your continued support on this spiritual journey toward Christmas. God bless, and I look forward to reconnecting with you soon.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

Dec 6, 2024 • 1h 33min
The Modern Witch Trial of Daniel Penny & the Theology of Self Defense w/ Guest Host Rick Barrett
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!Buckle up for a blend of humor and critical analysis as we dissect the Daniel Penny trial and its striking parallels to the Daniel Perry case. Our conversation also delves into the world of firearms, exploring the nuances of a recent shooting incident in New York and speculating on its motivations.Journey with us as we scrutinize the media's influence on legal narratives, particularly in self-defense cases, and reflect on how political dynamics shape public perception. We examine the cultural battle over life issues, weighing in on the tensions between the Novus Ordo and Latin Mass and the broader implications for Catholic men today. Personal anecdotes bring to life the challenges of adhering to traditional practices while navigating the complexities of modern church rites.Finally, get a taste of Rome through firsthand stories that capture the city's essence—from the awe-inspiring beauty of the Vatican to the culinary delights found in every corner. As Anthony explores Rome, we're excited to announce our guest host lineup with Mike Pantile and Keith Nester, ensuring a dynamic continuation of thought-provoking discussions. Join us as we blend insights, humor, and thoughtful reflection, leaving you with much to ponder and discuss.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

Dec 5, 2024 • 1h 2min
REPLAY - The Season of Advent and The Jesse Tree with Eric Sammons
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 first aired a little over 2 years ago.Eric Sammons joins us for an enlightening conversation about faith, family, and tradition. Offering wisdom from his book "The Jesse Tree," co-authored with his wife, Eric provides a unique perspective on how to engage children in the beauty of salvation history using typology. This approach enriches family faith practices and ensures that faith traditions are effectively passed down to the next generation. Published by Sophia Institute, the new edition of their book promises even greater insights. Our discussion is sprinkled with humor and heartwarming personal stories, making this episode a rich tapestry of Catholic life during the Advent and Christmas seasons.We also explore the nuances of family traditions, from quirky tales about Christmas stockings to the intricate balancing act between holiday celebrations and personal beliefs. Revel in our anecdotes about St. Nick's Day and St. Lucy's Day, and laugh with us over our attempts to navigate the complexities of Amazon's pricing system. The episode also delves into the spiritual aspects of fasting during Advent and Lent, drawing wisdom from the old Divine Office and the Church Fathers, highlighting how these practices foster spiritual growth and community engagement.With a reflection on the value of focusing on local parish life rather than being swept up in global Church news, this episode champions the importance of community-led faith experiences. Our journey through cherished family traditions and holiday memories—complete with hidden baby Jesus figures and thoughtful approaches to Santa Claus—illustrates the profound influence of faith and tradition. Join us as we celebrate the power of storytelling in nurturing a fulfilling, traditional Catholic lifestyle.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

Dec 5, 2024 • 20min
Meditations for Advent 2024 - Day 5 - Jesus Christ Promised to the Patriarchs & the Law on Mt Sinai
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!Unlock the mysteries of divine promises and spiritual connections as we explore Day 5 of our Advent meditations, guided by Bishop Jacques Bossuet's profound insights. How did God's covenant with the patriarchs shape the sacred journey toward the fulfillment of His promise through Christ? Join us as we delve into this thought-provoking meditation, revealing the seeds of a divine plan that were sowed in the hearts of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This episode unravels the intricate tapestry of faith and prophecy, offering listeners a richer understanding of the Advent season and the profound significance of God’s enduring love and promise.Our double meditation session today leads us through the blessings promised to the patriarchs and their ultimate fulfillment in the coming of Christ. Through these sacred reflections, we uncover how God, amidst the world's moral decline, chose Abraham to forge a new path—a path that would mend the relationship between humanity and its Creator. Experience an enlightening journey of faith designed to deepen your spiritual understanding and love for God, as intended by the patriarchs' faithful legacy.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