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!As we stand on the threshold of another Lenten season, I invite you to embark on a journey of the soul with me. Lend me your ears each morning for a series of daily meditations, this time drawing upon the profound insights of Bishop Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet. Father Paul Check graces us with an introduction that paves the way for our first steps into the Ash Wednesday reflection, where we contemplate the transformative power of an open heart during Lent. Together, let's venture through these days of solemn reflection, preparing our spirits for the joy and renewal that Easter heralds.Feel the rhythm of this Lenten season with our extended series of daily meditations, thoughtfully prepared to accompany you on each day of this contemplative period. Tune in as we release new episodes every morning, like clockwork, across a variety of platforms—be it YouTube, your favorite audio podcast space, or our SpiritusTV and Locals community for subscribers. Your presence and participation in this sacred time is a gift, and I am honored to share this space with you. May these reflections serve as a guide to a more profound understanding and connection with our faith, and lead us to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.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 Levi's life was engulfed by the shadows of opioid addiction, an unexpected beacon of hope emerged through his embrace of faith. Journey with us as Levi recounts his transformation from the clutches of substance abuse to the sanctuary of Catholicism, sharing the intimate details of his conversion and his upcoming Easter conversion in a family brimming with diverse religious influences. His story navigates the intersections of Baptist beginnings, Methodist transitions, and the allure of Catholic media, offering a vivid portrait of personal redemption and spiritual discovery.As our conversation meanders through Levi's life, we uncover the unexpected catalysts that have shaped his faith: the poetic musings of his future wife and the robust debates on Lutheran theology that steered him towards the Catholic Church. The intricacies of familial dynamics come to light as Levi reflects on integrating into his children's Catholic lineage and the quest for a church that resonates as home. This episode doesn't shy away from tough questions or avoid the nuanced debates that challenge and enrich our understanding of religion in the modern context.Embarking on this episode is akin to opening a global atlas of the soul, where the personal is inextricable from the universal. We'll touch upon the traditional Catholic practices that have transformed Levi's life, the importance of narrative in comprehending figures like Putin, and the delicate dance of parenting in tumultuous political times. With Levi's insights as our guide, we connect the dots between our deepest beliefs and the broader world we navigate, creating a tapestry of conversation that's as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming. Join us for a profound voyage into the essence of transformation, belief, and the power of faith to illuminate the darkest corners.Levi's channel, TruthWorthy:  https://www.youtube.com/@levipingleton-cv1fgPersonalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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 life throws you the curveball of seeing Ryan Katsu Rivera at Mass, you might just find yourself sitting down for a heart-to-heart with the man himself! That's exactly the unexpected turn of events that sparked this episode, where Ryan and Anthony explore their NYC roots, shared love for "Opie and Anthony," and the comical side of their Catholic journeys. Moving beyond just laughs, we delve into the significance of sacramentals, the importance of tradition, and finding the truth in a faith that both challenges and enriches us.Catholicism isn't just about attending Mass; it's a tapestry of beliefs, practices, and experiences that shape our worldview. From family's role in Christianity to the intellectual debates that test our convictions, we traverse the spectrum of what it means to live a life of faith. We grapple with the tough questions, like whether one can sin in a lucid dream, and share the joyous moments that draw us closer to the divine, such as the mysteries of the rosary or the illumination that comes from profound personal reflections.Guest Ryan Katsu Rivera's presence adds a layer of insight to our lively discussion as we touch on the humor that binds the community of Catholic content creators and anticipate the engaging perspectives of upcoming guest Joshua Charles. Whether you're a cradle Catholic, a convert, or simply curious about the faith, this episode promises to engage with its blend of levity and depth, all while traversing the rich landscape of Catholicism's intellectual and spiritual traditions. Join us on this journey that is sure to provoke thought, tickle your funny bone, and potentially transform your spiritual perspective.********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community:  https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV:  https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee:  https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonPersonalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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 we sit down with Erick Ybarra to discuss Catholicism under Pope Francis, we also chart a course through the laugh-lines of life's script into the heart of theological discourse, exploring how personal beliefs evolve over time and the bridges built between diverse Christian traditions.Wading through the rich waters of Christian doctrine with Erick, our dialogue sets sail from the authoritarian shores of Baptist leadership to the more enigmatic terrain of Anglicanism and finally anchors in the haven of Catholicism. We don't just skim the surface of religious practices; we plunge into the undercurrents that shape them.Our expedition doesn't end at the port of doctrinal discovery; we navigate the oft-tumultuous seas of modern Catholic discourse. From dissecting the evolution of apologetics and examining the roots of papal authority to weighing the controversies surrounding Pope Francis's papacy, our candid conversations shine a beacon on the internal dynamics that challenge and shape faith communities. So, join us as we chart a path through the questions and quandaries that bind us all in the quest for understanding, wrapped in a spirit of respect, humor, and intellectual curiosity.********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community:  https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV:  https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee:  https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonPersonalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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 Catholic Church's teachings on homosexuality reconcile with modern cultural shifts? This episode, featuring Michael Hichborn of the Lepanto Institute, grapples with Pope Francis's remarks on African bishops, the complex tapestry of church doctrine, cultural undercurrents, and the quest for ecclesiastical unity. As we unpack the church's traditional views and the burgeoning debates on same-sex blessings, our listeners are invited to a conversation that questions the intersection of identity politics, scriptural doctrine, and the spiritual health of prosperous societies.Today's family structure is a far cry from traditional Christian perspectives, but what can we learn from examining these established roles? We explore the significance of each family member's role, drawing parallels with the Holy Family and the Holy Trinity, and debate modern attitudes toward career prioritization over family life. Michael's insights shine a light on these foundational elements, raising poignant questions on the emptiness that might accompany life choices that deviate from the innate human desire to create a family.Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the realms of creationism, evolution, and the intersection of science and faith. From challenging the mainstream narratives on human origins to discussing the implications of the moon landing and extraterrestrial life, this episode is a rich exchange of ideas that traverses the delicate relationship between religious beliefs and scientific skepticism. Don't miss the insightful contributions from our esteemed guest, Michael Hichborn, and stay tuned for future deep dives into scriptural texts and the support for Michael's work at the Lepanto Institute.Personalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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!Venture with us into the depths of spirituality as seen in the Russian film, "The Island," as we dissect the powerful relationships between faith, film, and our quest for redemption. The dialogue takes a cinematic turn as we examine Russian films that explore the Orthodox practice of repentance, inviting reflections on our own Catholic heritage and the universal theme of spiritual transformation.Strap in as we navigate the theological rapids that separate and unite Eastern Orthodox and Protestant thought, scrutinizing beliefs like theosis and holiness. We tackle the historical schism that fragmented Eastern and Western Christianity, shedding light on the nuances distinguishing Eastern Catholic and Orthodox customs. The silver screen serves as our canvas, painting vivid parallels between the lives of saints—both on celluloid and in hagiography—and our modern pursuit of sanctity, particularly through characters embodying the humility and struggle intrinsic to true spiritual growth.In the concluding leg of our odyssey, we grapple with the nuanced dynamics of confession, the role of married clergy, and the enigma of the 'holy fool' across Christian traditions. As we dissect scenes from select movies, the conversation probes the prophetic, the liturgical, and the transformative power of forgiveness and love. Culminating in an anticipation of future film discussions, we invite you to immerse yourself in these stories of grace, as we together untangle the divine interplay of faith and forgiveness in the reel and real worlds.Personalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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 found yourself chuckling over a beer commercial that's somehow patriotic or contemplated the spiritual depth of a film? This episode with Brian Holdsworth might just be the eclectic cultural journey you didn't know you needed. We lace up our curling shoes (does curling even have shoes?) and start off with a candid conversation with Brian about the offbeat facets of Canadian nationalism, sharing laughs over our listeners' most creative podcast reviews. But don't let the friendly banter fool you; we're also peeling back the layers of contemporary faith, the quest for hope in a material world, and the eternal allure of liturgy and beauty that bind our culture together.Imagine sitting in a pew, questioning how ancient traditions fit into our modern lives; that's where we find common ground. We swap tales from the trenches of music ministry, the magnetic pull towards the traditional Latin Mass, and the profound influence of upbringing on our spiritual compasses. As we navigate the rich landscape of conservatism entwined with Catholicism, we ponder the transformative power of faith and how Christianity has sculpted society, revealing personal shifts toward deeper connections with our ancient rites and the stories that shape us.This episode isn't just a reflection—it's an invitation to a community where the threads of Catholic networking weave a stronger fabric of support and where cinema becomes a mirror to our souls. So, if you're ready to step into a world where the sacred meets the celluloid and where cultural identity is as rich as a carefully crafted espresso, then plug in and prepare for an episode that's as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming.********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community:  https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV:  https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonRumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-1626455Odysee:  https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylonPersonalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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!Embark on a stimulating odyssey with Father James Mawdsley as we traverse the intersections of history, theology, and socio-political upheaval. Together, we probe the legacy of WWII and its lasting impression on the Church, explore the traditional mass in light of Old Testament typology, and unpack the thorny issues of Jewish policy criticism versus antisemitism. This candid episode is not just another discussion; it's a nuanced tapestry that weaves together the delicate stance of the Catholic Church in a world rife with global tensions.As our conversation with Father Mawdsley deepens, we scrutinize the historical underpinnings of Jewish political influence, the Church's intricate dance with financial and social order, and the controversial stances of the Talmud. The discourse flows into theological debates, exploring the intricate relationships between Judaism, Protestantism, and Catholicism and their impact on geopolitical and religious allegiances. This episode is a crucible of provocative debate, touching on topics like Jewish Zionism, the role of Islam, and the Holocaust's contentious discourse, all while seeking a path toward understanding and truth.In our finale, we confront the pressing issues of our time: Muslim immigration, nationalism, and the fraught climate of religious beliefs. We tackle the conundrums of ecclesiastical scandals, papal authority, and the Church's horizon in a post-Francis era. Father Mawdsley offers his reflections on Jewish conversion potential and the theological significance of Old Testament narratives while we grapple with the challenges of content sharing in an era hyper-aware of censorship. This intellectual feast promises not only to enlighten but also to foster a deeper comprehension of the complex tapestry of faith and history.Personalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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 enlightened and entertained as we navigate the intersection of the spiritual and secular with our esteemed guest, Nicholas Cavazos. From questioning the enduring tradition of celibacy in the priesthood to examining the political strategies that could shape our future, we pull back the curtain on the forces that sculpt our contemporary world. Expect to hear not only the gravity of ecclesiastical controversies, but also a dose of laughter as we swap stories, share candid moments, and foster a deeper understanding of the complex world we inhabit.Venture with us through a labyrinth of timely discussions, where the allure of the Latin Mass meets the modern challenges of the Catholic Church, and the influence of secular Jews is dissected against the backdrop of evolving culture. We probe into the ramifications of punitive actions within the Church, the potential schism on the horizon, and the provocative realm of surveillance tactics that target political affiliations. Our exploration doesn't stop at the border of controversy; it breaks through, inviting you to expand your perspective on governance, religion, and the strata of influence that permeate our everyday lives.By the end of our multifaceted journey, you'll have traversed from theological debates to the rocky landscape of political candidacy and the cultural implications of an Amazon show based on Lilith. We wrap up our episode with the warmth and camaraderie of shared experiences & inside jokes. So tune in, join the discussion, and discover how the threads of humor and depth weave together to create an unforgettable podcast experience.Personalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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!From a transformative Eucharistic encounter to challenging the status quo of modern Christianity, Calvin Robinson joins us for a profound exploration into the depths of faith and how it intertwines with societal currents. As we traverse Calvin's spiritual odyssey from Anglicanism to a more encompassing Christian fraternity, we uncover the resonant power of sacraments and the quest for unity within the diverse tapestry of Christian denominations. Our dialogue takes on the weight of current affairs, from the intricacies of free speech to the societal stitches woven by immigration, and how these shape our collective religious experience.Navigating the waters of tradition and modernity, we grapple with the Catholic Church's response to contemporary societal shifts. With insight from Calvin, we dissect the delicate balance between preserving foundational doctrines and adapting to an ever-evolving cultural landscape. The discussion turns to the counter-cultural significance of celibacy within the priesthood and the implications of a society that equates happiness with sexual liberty, prompting reflections on the timeless teachings of Saint Paul and their relevance in today's world.As we wind down, we contemplate the personal transformations and future aspirations that faith ignites. We share touching stories of the spiritual rejuvenation found in Marian pilgrimages and the humbling power of prayer for guidance and strength. Looking ahead, we tease the lineup of upcoming shows, promising rich and engaging discourses on topics that matter. Join us in this episode for a journey that promises to enlighten, challenge, and inspire.Personalized Cancer Treatment Center in USAWe treat you—not just your illness—with personalized, integrative care, love, and support.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