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!What if everything you thought you knew about the Crusades was wrong? Join us for an enlightening episode where we sit down with celebrated author Steve Weidenkopf to uncover the true motivations behind these historical events. Through meticulous research involving primary sources like contemporary chronicles and insights from esteemed historians, Steve provides a comprehensive narrative that challenges popular misconceptions. You'll gain a fresh perspective on the First Crusade, the timing of which was orchestrated by Pope Urban II in 1095, leading to the pivotal liberation of Jerusalem in 1099.We look closer at the real driving forces behind the Crusaders' actions, revealing that spiritual rather than material motivations propelled many, including firstborn sons, who sacrificed their assets for the cause. With fascinating stories about figures like Duke Godfrey of Bouillon and accounts of reputed divine interventions, this episode also addresses the darker aspects, including the controversial atrocities committed by Crusaders. Understand the broader historical context of the Crusades, their impact on the Islamic world, and how these events shaped the course of Western civilization.You'll also hear a critical analysis of how modern media has depicted the Crusades, comparing flawed portrayals in films like "Kingdom of Heaven" to more accurate representations such as the Swedish miniseries "Arn: The Knight Templar." Our discussion extends to the complex legacy of St. Bernard and his involvement in the Second Crusade, as well as the transformative influence of Christianity on Western legal and cultural development. Tune in for a rich, nuanced conversation that promises to shed new light on one of history's most misunderstood periods.Book by Steve Weidenkopf:  https://www.amazon.com/Glory-Crusades-Steve-Weidenkopf/dp/194166301X/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 Pride Month a celebration or a contradiction? We kick off this episode with some hearty laughter over a hilarious video that had us all in stitches, then quickly move into brainstorming exciting new formats for our trivia show. With a growing audience to accommodate, we discuss inviting local subscribers to participate directly on-screen and the logistics of offering attractive prizes like Amazon gift cards. We also explore the idea of a dynamic bracket-style competition featuring former guests and subscribers, making it an event trivia enthusiasts won't want to miss.Next, we tackle the controversial subject of Pride Month from a traditional Christian perspective. We critically examine the use of the word "pride" given its negative connotations in Christian doctrine and discuss the broader implications of sexual expression in modern society. We delve into religious liberty, freedom of the press, and the nuanced views on same-sex attraction within religious contexts, bringing in personal anecdotes and historical viewpoints that add depth to our conversation. The tension between modern liberal values and traditional beliefs takes center stage as we explore this complex issue.Finally, we share heartfelt personal stories about the influence of our fathers, battles for approval, and the moral challenges within the Church. We critique shifts in seminary training and reflect on their impact on the Church's trajectory, touching on the significance of faith in politics with a special look at El Salvador's young president and his unique governance approach. From the Catholic content creation challenges to the influential role of priests in the same-sex revolution, we cover a wide range of topics. Join us for an insightful and engaging discussion that explores the intersection of faith, politics, and societal norms.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!Imagine finding a duffel bag filled with drugs, sex toys, horrific porn, and a blank DVD showing a potential murder. This shocking discovery leads to an extraordinary tale of corruption and illegal detainment involving a troubled youth and a corrupt cop. Join us as we unravel this gripping story and the fierce battle for justice that ensued.From lighthearted debates about the communication styles of boys and girls to humorous personal anecdotes, our latest episode has something for everyone. We share the exciting news about our upcoming live show at Catholic Palooza in New Jersey and the launch of our new merchandise store. The journey continues with a hilarious recounting of a minor head injury and the dramatic reactions it sparked, offering listeners plenty of laughs along the way.Our conversation takes a deeper turn as we explore moral desensitization, addiction, and the struggles of those in positions of authority. We discuss the intersection of the spiritual and physical realms, touching on angels, hell, and resurrection. Reflecting on modern skepticism and historical spiritual experiences, we also address contemporary issues like social media addiction and its consequences. With powerful testimonies and thought-provoking discussions, this episode promises an engaging exploration of faith, morality, and the human experience.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 extraterrestrial phenomena be explained through theology? Dr. Mazza joins us to explore this riveting question by analyzing the theory that M. Night Shyamalan's "Signs" suggests aliens might actually be demons. From detailed dissections of key scenes to the protagonist's spiritual journey, we uncover how faith, forgiveness, and divine intervention interplay within the film. Dr. Mazza also shares insights from his online courses on science and faith, covering miracles, the multiverse, and more.Our discussion branches out to broader cultural phenomena, including society's fascination with UFOs and the implications of government disclosures on the subject. We explore how the loss of faith in traditional religious beliefs has led to a growing interest in extraterrestrial beings. Among the highlights is a fascinating debate on whether these phenomena might defy the laws of physics, suggesting they are interdimensional beings—potentially angels or demons.We also tackle contemporary challenges within the Catholic Church, from the resignation of Pope Benedict to the influence of modern ideologies on religious beliefs. Delving into Marian apparitions and the ongoing Eucharistic revival, we reflect on the significance of traditional practices amidst rising secular "religions." As we wrap up, we express our gratitude to Dr. Mazza for his enlightening contributions and look forward to future collaborations. This episode is a treasure trove of thought-provoking discussions on faith, film, and the mysteries of our universe.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!Prepare yourself for an extraordinary season finale filled with insightful discussions and unexpected stories! We kick off with a delightful surprise, thanks to Pope Francis, who uncovered a treasure trove of stories this week. Join us as we explore Father Nick's headline-making comments about biting priests, discuss faith and film, and share a personal tale of frustration when my boat got towed. The episode also navigates the tricky waters of discussing movies with potential issues, offering a thought-provoking analysis of Pope Francis' controversial use of an outdated term.Journey with us back to the 1920s as we delve into the heroic saga of the Cristeros, devout Catholics who stood up against a Freemasonic and Socialist takeover in Mexico. We'll dissect the Vatican's controversial directive to Mexican bishops and the Cristeros' defiant stand to defend their faith. The conversation gets even more intense as we examine a contemporary issue involving a priest who bit a woman to protect the Eucharist, debating the appropriateness of his actions and broader themes of when force is justified to protect sacred beliefs and symbols. This episode blends historical depth with current dilemmas, offering a rich narrative on faith and resistance.Our cultural exploration continues as we shed light on the portrayal of accents in film and television, critiquing the effectiveness of fake accents and emphasizing the importance of authenticity in storytelling. We also discuss the production quality of movies funded by organizations like the Knights of Columbus and their impact on religious narratives. As we wrap up this engaging series, we express our heartfelt gratitude to our special guest, Connor, whose extensive knowledge and unique insights have enriched our discussions. We promise to bring him back for more thought-provoking conversations in future episodes. Don't miss this captivating finale that will leave you eagerly anticipating our return!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!Prepare to be whisked away on an enlightening adventure as we grapple with the intricate dance of religion, reality, and the human psyche. Our podcast traverses generations, revealing how varying perspectives shape our understanding of spiritual and societal evolution. As your hosts, we tackle the formidable debate at the intersection of evolution, religion, and atheism, questioning the very essence of our existence. We investigate why humanity clings to worship and sacrifice, examining whether these practices are evolutionary aberrations or integral to our survival. We don't shy away from the weightier matters, contemplating the resurgence of traditional values in our ever-evolving society. Discussions of power dynamics, from the Arab Spring to Occupy, segue into a critique of modern leadership and governance systems. Our discourse turns to the Christian impact on moral standards and the origin of natural law, challenging evolutionary justifications for societal shifts. Ethical dilemmas on identity and heroism in today's world are laid bare, rounding off a session that is as much an exploration of faith and morality as it is a testament to our inherent yearning for connection and meaning. Join us for a journey that promises to expand your mind and perhaps even touch your soul.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!A heated segment from 'The View' provides a backdrop for discussing religious practices. These conversations set the stage for a deep dive into the nuances of faith and public opinion.This episode isn't just about debates and discussions; it's a reflection of the shifting sands of traditional Catholicism. Witness the clash between the old-world charm of the Traditional Latin Mass and modernist perspectives, sparking discussions on whether our society is experiencing a moral recalibration. Through anecdotes and Catholic teachings, we explore how the essence of a fulfilling life often lies in the sacrifices we make for our loved ones rather than the accolades we earn in our professions.We wrap up with a guest appearance from Kale Zeldon, who joins in as we reminisce about the influential years of Pope John Paul II. Our journey circles back to my own reconnection with Catholicism and the intellectual richness of the Church that beckoned me home. As we conclude with a discussion on Russell Brand's engagement with Christianity, we invite listeners to discover an episode filled with authenticity, seeking truth in humor, faith, and society. So, grab your headphones, get comfortable, and immerse yourself in a conversation that promises to enlighten, challenge, and inspire.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!They say a single tweet can be a bridge or a barricade; this time, it led to an unlikely friendship and a podcast episode you won't forget. Joe Bocca, a local enigma with a penchant for privacy, and Alberto, Anthony's former Twitter sparring partner, join Anthony in peeling back the layers of our digital personas. We laugh about how a simple typo birthed the 'bogus ordo' in-joke, but also dig deeper into the serious side of our online skirmishes and the odd pride some boomers take in their cringe-worthy internet fame. Together, we wrestle with the quirks of communicating faith and conservatism in the age of the internet, all the while navigating the minefield of modern Catholic theology.Amidst the laughter and technical difficulties (Rob, we missed you), the conversation takes a somber turn as we discuss the sacred intricacies of attending the traditional Latin Mass and the generational impact of Vatican II. Personal stories of interfaith marriages and the journey from cradle Catholic to convert showcase the profound ways culture influences our spiritual lives. When the topic shifts to the controversial elements of modern Catholic theology, we don't shy away. From Pope Francis to Theology of the Body, every stone is unturned—even if it means seeking solace on alternative streaming platforms to speak our minds freely.Wrapping up, our debate heats up as we confront the contentious future of the Catholic Church, dissecting the SSPX identity crisis and the political discord that often finds its way into religious communities. In a world where marriages grapple with traditional values and political and religious identities are ever at odds, we ponder whether dialogue can truly build bridges. We question the prudence of marriage in a turbulent culture, and dare to ask if the Church is ready to navigate modernism's rocky terrain. Through it all, our commitment to challenging conversations and the humor that makes them bearable shines—a testament to the multifaceted experience of a Catholic life lived fully and unapologetically in today's times.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 grapple with the shifting paradigms shaping our modern world through the lens of Mass security, the portrayal of clergy in film, and the controversial currents of Pride Month and DEI initiatives. Hard-hitting yet heartfelt, this episode doesn't shy away from the political realm either, dissecting generational shifts in perspective on hot-button issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and feminism.Concluding with a deep dive into the spiritual, join us as we confront the enduring struggles with faith that are as personal as they are profound. From the enigmatic nature of belief to the concept of resurrection and heaven, our journey through faith is laid bare. And because every conversation should have lighter moments, don't miss the interview mishap that reminds us of our shared humanity and the tease of an exciting announcement that promises to be the icing on this podcast cake.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!Ever wondered how the sensitive issue of discipline within marriage can cause such a stir? We're diving headfirst into that very debate sparked between Trent Horn and Pearl, analyzing why 'discipline' might be misunderstood in marriage. From handling finances to personal matters like weight gain, we scrutinize the double standards that often arise between spouses, all while making sure to keep things light-hearted and engaging.The sanctity of marriage, both through the lens of religion and civil understanding, gets a thorough examination in our dialogue. We juxtapose Christian and Islamic views on spousal roles, and whether marriage should remain tied to civil laws or stand apart as a sacrament. Delve into the historical shifts, the transformative Vatican II changes in the Catholic Church, and how these impact family leadership and societal harmony. We'll also share touching personal anecdotes and dissect the rise of traditional Catholicism online, as well as the cultural shifts in religious practices due to the pandemic.Lastly, strap in for an eclectic mix of discussions ranging from traditional values in our modern society to the humorous woes of dating expectations. We critique an Apple commercial with a surprising corporate response and share a cheeky debate on family vs. professional commitments. Remember, we're not just sharing stories; we're rallying a community to embrace faith and values with open hearts and minds. So join us, as we tackle these topics with wit, wisdom, and a dash of humor.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