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!Can a pope's tweet spark as much controversy as a presidential one? Prepare yourself for a whirlwind conversation as we explore the idea of a Trump-like pope with an assertive social media presence. We laugh through technical difficulties caused by recent storms and enjoy a humorous discussion about Italians and garlic, giving a shoutout to Little Way Farm for their delicious produce. We also dive into the significance of thumbnails in attracting viewers and share positive feedback from our listeners about our previous guest.Next, we tackle the heated debate over Trent Horn's controversial comments regarding Pope Francis and Catholic doctrine. Our conversation navigates through the idea of a more assertive, orthodox pope and the possible impact of decentralizing the Church, all while imagining a papal figure with the boldness of social media influencers.Finally, we take an in-depth look at the intricate relationship between Western and Eastern Christian traditions, contrasting the scholasticism of the West with the mysticism of the East. Personal anecdotes about pilgrimages to Medjugorje highlight our skepticism about the visionaries and the Vatican's mixed messages. We also touch on the inspiring resilience of Serbian judo champion Nemanja Majdov and the complexities of internal Church struggles amidst evolving political and social landscapes. Join us as we navigate these multifaceted issues with insight, humor, and a touch of controversy.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!What happens when a meticulously planned trivia night goes off the rails? We toss the script and invite our vibrant audience to join the chaos! With our guests dropping out last minute, we transformed our episode into an impromptu trivia showdown, filled with laughter, friendly competition, and unexpected moments. Sam steps up as the trivia master, while Nick, albeit with some reluctance, handles the scorekeeping. Every question sparks lively discussions, humorous guesses, and some mistaken answers that only add to the fun.Our trivia game spans a range of intriguing topics, from the Swiss Guards and biblical figures to significant Catholic dates. Watch as Sam scores the first point, and the game heats up with questions about religious vestments and the ceremonial hat of a bishop. Even technical glitches and audio issues can't dampen our spirits, as we navigate through the quiz with plenty of teasing and camaraderie. Expect to learn something new while enjoying the lighthearted banter that makes our regular game sessions so entertaining.Join us as we embrace the unexpected and keep the laughs coming, all while diving into the fascinating world of religious trivia. From cultural practices to the Latin inscription on Jesus' cross, our trivia night proves to be as educational as it is hilarious. Despite the initial setbacks, the episode captures the essence of our community, ensuring that everyone has a blast and leaves with a smile. Don't miss out on this wild ride of humor, knowledge, and friendly rivalry!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!Taking a reflective turn, we recount the profound impact of 9/11 through personal experiences, including Anthony's story of 9/11 from Manhattan. This leads to a wider discussion on the evolution of American patriotism, the reassessment of past events, and our emotional responses to key moments like President Bush's Ground Zero speech. We also scrutinize the use of propaganda, questioning the narratives of the last 20+ years, and explore how unity emerged from such a devastating event, pondering whether such solidarity is possible in today's fragmented world.Our conversation broadens to address the potential threats to the Catholic Church, the post-conciliar era, and how historical narratives are manipulated for political agendas. We tackle the real-world impacts of immigration on American culture, the complexities of political and religious identities within the Catholic community, and the essence of conservatism. Finally, we contemplate the potential collapse and balkanization of the USA, the future of the American empire, and critically examine the culture of Catholic influencers and the challenges faced by new converts to Catholicism. Join us for a thought-provoking and heartfelt discussion that spans a wide array of compelling topics.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!Emphasizing the transformative power of faith, we debate whether teaching kids through the lives of saints or through apologetics is more effective, culminating in heartfelt personal conversion stories.Next, we critique Dr. Peter Kreeft's approach to Thomism, stressing the importance of understanding Aquinas through his commentators. We explore the influence of modern Catholic figures like Scott Hahn and popular platforms such as "Pints with Aquinas" on personal faith journeys. Our conversation then moves into the controversial realm of ecumenism, examining its implications for the Church's relationship with Islam and offering pointed critiques of Pope Francis' approach to interfaith dialogue. We invite you to reflect on the challenges modern ecumenism poses to Catholic doctrine and practice, and what it means for the future of the Church.Our final segment is a rich tapestry of discussions, starting with a reflection on Eusebius's Church History and gripping accounts like the fall of the Temple in 70 AD. We brainstorm potential future guests, including Jonathan Pageau and Patrick Madrid, while navigating the complexities of securing high-profile names. We also address contentious issues like immigration and the alignment of Church leaders with secular political agendas. Emphasizing the importance of maintaining a spiritual routine amidst distractions, we seek your prayers for Joey's wife, who faces a delicate pregnancy situation. Join us for this compelling episode packed with faith, reflection, and community.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 kicks off with an electrifying monologue that sets the stage for a series of high-stakes discussions, from last night's fiery debate on Pope Francis to a deep dive into pro-life topics and social engineering. Despite some technical hiccups, we keep the energy high and dive into the shocking news about Tenant Media's founders allegedly laundering Russian funds. We question media personalities like Tim Pool and Dave Rubin and their alleged financial ties to Russian backers, revealing the broader implications for U.S. media and national discourse.We shift gears to examine the latest political endorsements and how they're shaping the upcoming elections. Our conversation covers everything from RFK Jr.'s influence on medical practices to the role of social media giants like Elon Musk's Twitter in public discourse. We also touch on the serious issue of distracted driving, highlighting a tragic story involving a truck driver's severe sentencing. This discussion underscores the need for responsible driving habits and empathetic judgment in legal cases. Then, we share some lighter moments with personal anecdotes about driving tests before delving into the legal troubles of Hunter Biden and the potential fallout for the Biden family.The episode takes a thought-provoking turn as we scrutinize prominent political figures, the influence of the deep state, and the ramifications of Trump's policies. We explore the intricate dance of political and cultural advocacy needed to create meaningful change, ending with a candid critique of modern gender roles and the decline of strong male role models in media. We even engage in some playful banter about height comparisons among friends and offer a fun social media challenge for our listeners. This episode is a rollercoaster of intense debates, personal stories, and critical insights that you won't want to miss.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!We navigate through the intricate terrain of ecumenism and the practice of Catholicism in restrictive environments like Indonesia. Our conversation takes a critical turn as we examine Pope Francis's approach to interfaith dialogue, raising questions about syncretism and the incremental changes within the Church since the Second Vatican Council. The dialogue is enriched with reflections on Catholic legends, the veneration of relics, and essential resources for new converts, creating a thought-provoking discussion on the future direction of Pope Francis's pontificate.As we delve deeper, we confront the contentious issues of papal legitimacy and the impact of modern societal changes on traditional gender roles. Our exploration includes the challenges faced by the pro-life movement and the crisis of male leadership within the Catholic community. From historical parallels to the Anglican split to the technological upheavals shaping our world today, this episode offers a comprehensive and insightful reflection on the broader implications for the Catholic Church and its followers.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!Unearth the complexities of Catholic liturgical practices post-Second Vatican Council and how these changes may have shaped modern Catholic faith and identity. We dissect the transformation of the Missal, the shifts in liturgical practices, and their consequences, contrasting the traditional Latin Mass with the Novus Ordo. Lastly, contemplate the profound existential reflections through famous atheists' deathbed confessions and conversion stories. Hear about John Wayne's surprising conversion to Catholicism, explore the myths around Voltaire, and unravel the implications of unverified end times prophecies. Plus, we share film trivia and preview our upcoming content, promising an engaging and insightful journey ahead.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!What if traditional gender roles hold the secret to a harmonious marriage? Join us as we explore this provocative question alongside our special guest, Steph, making her debut appearance on the show. We kick things off with a humorous chat about the hassles of YouTube copyright strikes, weaving in light-hearted anecdotes about our marriages and the strong family values imparted by our parents.Steph and Tim take us on a heartfelt journey into their marriage and spiritual awakening. From Tim's transformation from atheism to Catholicism to Steph's initial unfamiliarity with the faith, their story is filled with trials and triumphs. They recount the challenges they faced, such as moving to Italy for Tim's PhD and dealing with their daughter's severe health issues, emphasizing the importance of faith in building a resilient bond.We also tackle the intricacies of traditional gender roles in marriage. Is it true that men should lead and women should follow for marital harmony? We discuss this and more through personal experiences and reflections on modern cultural challenges. From discussing women's cyclical moods and the role of fathers to examining societal misconceptions about stay-at-home mothers, this episode offers a rich dialogue on navigating marriage and family dynamics in today's world. Plus, get insights into Steph and Tim's new book, offering practical advice for achieving a happy marriage grounded in traditional virtues.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!In this episode, we dive into the complexities of the pro-life movement, especially in a post-Roe v. Wade world. We tackle the heated controversy surrounding Lila Rose and the movement's direction. Our discussion brings to light the frustrations within the pro-life community about resource allocation and unrealistic federal goals. The conversation gets even more intriguing as we examine the Republican Party's stance, the shifting positions of former President Trump, and the profound influence of key figures like Lila Rose within both political and Catholic circles.Finally, we explore the murky waters of political strategy and economic issues, from election manipulation to Trump's evolving agenda. We question the authenticity of political polling and discuss the alleged rigging to secure Joe Biden's position. The episode also delves into the rising cost of consumer goods, the war in Ukraine, and the impact of government policies on climate change. We wrap up by examining societal decay, both in America and within the Catholic Church, and the growing influence of technology. Stay tuned for our heartfelt sign-off, expressing gratitude to our audience and building anticipation for our next insightful session.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!Can the Church's stance on organ donation coexist with its views on the sacredness of the human body? Join us for an insightful journey behind the chaotic scenes of podcast planning as we humorously debate provocative ideas and land on discussing the fascinating topic of Akita and Sister Sasagawa. We'll share the rollercoaster process of balancing compelling content with factual accuracy, contributing to our engaging and dynamic team interactions. Ever wondered about the Church's perspective on supernatural phenomena or the historical significance of religious apparitions? We'll dissect these topics, from the miraculous events surrounding Sister Sasagawa and the Akita statue to the church's evolving interpretations post-Vatican II. Expect lively debates on theological perspectives, including contrasting views on Christ's sacrifice, the portrayal of divine justice and mercy, and the profound impact of liturgical changes in Russia. We even touch on the influence of demonic forces within the Church and the importance of praying for our clergy.How do modern and traditional views on the Virgin Mary differ, and what can personal experiences teach us about her mercy and love? We critique contemporary references to Mary, emphasizing reverence and traditional expressions. Hear touching personal stories of understanding Mary's mercy, the transformative power of Marian devotion, and the significance of practices like praying the rosary. Finally, explore the unity and division within the Christian church, the symbolic significance of Peter's encounters with Christ, and the contrasting roles of pre-conciliar and modern popes. Tune in for a comprehensive look at the faith, filled with humor, depth, and thought-provoking insights.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