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 show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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!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 show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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!Join Katherine, Mark, and Gavin, the dynamic trio from "Catholic Unscripted," as they share their compelling journey through Catholic media. These three hosts  connected at the Catholic Identity Conference and have since embarked on a mission to tackle significant issues facing the Church today. Hear Katherine's firsthand insights from her recent visit to the UK Parliament, where the assisted suicide bill debate is heating up, and explore their shared experiences of addressing controversial topics within the Catholic community. Their stories illustrate a profound commitment to faith and a vibrant community of believers.The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we examine perceptions of political figures like Donald Trump. How do media portrayals shape public opinion, and what role does policy play in the debate? From pro-life stances to immigration tensions, the hosts discuss the ethical, spiritual, and cultural complexities that define our time. Issues like Elon Musk's influence, the Catholic Church's response to modern ideologies, and the cultural clashes stemming from immigration are explored with a keen eye for the intersection of religion, politics, and society.As the podcast delves into the challenges facing the Catholic Church, from potential schisms to leadership under Pope Francis, the dialogue remains thought-provoking and candid. The hosts shed light on traditional Catholicism's struggle amidst contemporary pressures, reflecting on the Church's role in preserving cultural and spiritual heritage. With intriguing discussions on the British monarchy, the resurgence of interest in religion, and the role of women in the Church, Katherine, Mark, and Gavin offer an engaging and enriching perspective on the future of Catholicism and its impact on a changing world.Support the show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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!Could dragons have been more than just mythical legends? Imagine a world where ancient texts and natural phenomena hint at the existence of formidable creatures that roamed the Earth alongside humans. We explore tales from diverse cultures and the mesmerizing descriptions in biblical texts, such as the formidable Behemoth and the fiery Leviathan. By delving into these narratives, we challenge conventional interpretations and ponder if these legendary creatures had historical roots or were merely symbolic representations. Our journey doesn't stop with mythology. We venture into scientific hypotheses, contemplating pre-flood atmospheric conditions that could have allowed for longer lifespans and an ecosystem where humans might have coexisted with dinosaurs. From examining fossil records to questioning Darwinian evolution's impact on historical narratives, we piece together how ancient perceptions might have evolved into today's legendary dragon myths. We also connect these ideas to cultural stories like Daniel and the dragon, illuminating the blend of history and lore.Adding depth to our exploration, we recount captivating saintly legends and examine medieval depictions, analyzing how dragons symbolized spiritual battles and moral truths. We even tackle the contentious topic of Catholic charity mismanagement, exposing discrepancies and encouraging listeners towards transparency and awareness. Join us for an exhilarating discussion that intertwines myth, history, and spirituality, offering fresh insights into the enduring allure of dragon lore and its impact on human imagination and belief systems.Support the show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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 doubt and temptation unleashed a cascade of events that would change the course of human history? Join us as we promise to unravel the complexity behind the Fall of Man through the contemplations of Bishop Jacques Bossuet. By examining the cunning nature of the serpent and its interactions with Eve, we explore the subtle yet powerful way doubt was introduced into the world. With insights from St. Paul’s wisdom, discover how "the foolishness of God is wiser than man," offering a profound perspective on the divine narrative of salvation and obedience.Our journey doesn't stop there; we shift our focus to the hope of redemption found in Genesis 3:15. Delve into this pivotal promise, where the serpent is unveiled as a symbol of the devil, and the role of the woman's seed, Jesus Christ, is highlighted as humanity's ultimate hope. Here, we explore the rich allegorical layers that portray Eve as a precursor to Mary, the new Eve, emphasizing the virgin birth and Christ’s redemptive victory. Through the meditations of Bishop Bossuet, this episode offers a compelling reflection on the promise that has shaped Christian theology and offers hope to us all.Support the show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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!Join us on the third day of our Advent meditations inspired by Bishop Jacques Bossuet's "Meditations for Advent." We unpack the powerful imagery of St. Michael's triumph over the dragon, exploring how this ancient conflict represents the ongoing battle between pride and humility. Let us guide you through the biblical passages that reveal the restoration of purity in heaven and the vital roles played by celestial figures like St. Michael and St. Gabriel in our spiritual journey. As we delve into these themes, discover the timeless truths about the greatness of God and the unseen support we receive from the angels.Moving beyond the celestial realm, we invite you to reflect on humanity's intended state before the fall of Adam and Eve. Imagine a world untouched by sin, where the promise of a Redeemer was woven into the fabric of creation. We ponder the perseverance of holy angels and what it reveals about our potential to rise above life's challenges. Through these meditations, prepare your heart for Christmas by considering the divine purpose you were created for and the transformation that awaits in the light of God's promise. Join us as we explore the profound narratives of creation, fall, and redemption, aiming to enrich your Advent experience with profound spiritual insights.Support the show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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 pondered the profound mystery of free will and the fallibility of even the most perfect beings? Join us as Bishop Jacques Bossuet's meditations guide us through an introspective journey exploring the creation and fall of the angels. We unravel how these pure spirits, crafted in God's image and endowed with intelligence and love, succumbed to pride, yielding a cautionary tale embedded in scripture. As we reflect on passages from Job, 2 Peter, and Ezekiel, we uncover the vulnerability that lurks within sanctity and the imperative to cherish divine grace while embodying humility in our spiritual endeavors.In an enlightening discussion, we delve into Bishop Bossuet's philosophical perspective on angelic pride and downfall, contrasting the divine constancy of God's will with the mutable nature of His creations. The story of Lucifer’s pride serves as a stark reminder of our own susceptibility to similar downfalls, urging us to ground ourselves firmly in God’s unwavering love. Prepare to be inspired as we draw lessons from the angels' missteps and set our sights on the perseverance of the holy angels, all as part of our Advent journey towards the joyous celebration of Christmas.Support the show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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 spiritually enriching journey this Advent season with the profound meditations of Bishop Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet. Discover the eloquent blend of philosophy and spirituality as we explore themes of divine power, creation, and existence. Let these reflections guide you toward a sincere desire to follow His commandments and embrace the true spirit of Advent. Join us daily as we reflect on God's immense power and our own insignificance, acknowledging the necessity of divine guidance in our lives.Experience the invigorating teachings of Bishop Bossuet, whose ability to weave philosophical concepts into his homilies captivates and inspires. As we journey through the meditations, we eagerly anticipate exploring the creation and fall of angels, and we invite you to share in this spiritual journey. Tune in to our series of daily meditations across various platforms and embark on a path toward deeper spiritual understanding and reflection this Advent season.Support the show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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 plan for upcoming episodes, we're thrilled to share sneak peeks of guest appearances, including an intriguing sit-down with Catholic Unscripted and surprise live streams while I'm away. Behind the scenes, we navigate the chaos of planning schedules and lining up guests, ensuring a rich tapestry of content to keep you entertained.Our next segment unravels the complex world of media reporting, particularly focusing on The Pillar's recent coverage of Father Carlos Martins. We dissect how ambiguous language can lead to misinterpretations, stressing the delicate dance between breaking news and getting the story right. Within this context, we explore cultural norms and the nuances of interactions within the Church, aiming to foster a responsible narrative in religious reporting.Priests today face unprecedented challenges amidst public scrutiny and scandal, and we dive deep into these issues. From handling sensitive relic tours to managing personal boundaries, the modern priest's life is anything but simple. We reflect on cases that highlight the necessity of patience and thorough judgment, contemplating how religious figures are perceived differently. Through humor and honesty, we aim to foster understanding of the inherent value of individuals, while also delving into Martin Scorsese's portrayals of religious figures and the compelling complexities of faith.Support the show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@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 ever found a rare Fabergé egg at a yard sale or criticized a saint’s canonization? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into an exciting episode that covers a wide range of topics. From personal health struggles to moral dilemmas and religious controversies, we’ll have you laughing and thinking.We’ll start with a hilarious parody video featuring some of our favorite personalities, like Michael Lofton and Jay from Jay’s Analysis. Then, we’ll have some candid conversations about battling the flu, dealing with gallbladder issues, and the never-ending cycle of cluster headaches. As we gear up for a trip to Italy, we’ll talk about how to manage health concerns while traveling with restrictions.Next, we’ll explore the legacy of Carlo Acutis, a young Catholic boy whose devotion sparked both admiration and skepticism. We’ll analyze the ups and downs of his canonization process, comparing him to historic figures like Catherine of Aragon. Then, we’ll get into some tough moral dilemmas involving stolen art and the ethical obligations of returning valuable finds.We’ll also critique modern Catholic apologetics, take a look at figures like Trent Horn, and discuss the pressures faced by new converts with public personas. And of course, we’ll end the episode with a spirited discussion about the crisis of masculinity, cultural shifts, and the role of institutions like the Catholic Church in addressing these challenges.So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s have a fun and thought-provoking conversation. We’ll cover a lot of ground, so don’t miss out!Support the show********************************************************https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise: https://shop.avoidingbabylon.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comRSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rssSpiritusTV: https://spiritustv.com/@avoidingbabylonOdysee: https://odysee.com/@AvoidingBabylon