Catholic Classics
Ascension
Welcome to Catholic Classics from Ascension! Each season we'll read through a great Catholic spiritual writing providing insightful commentary and practical guidance along the way. Informative and enriching, these 20-30 mins episodes will allow you to learn from the Catholic Church’s most revered saints and teachers as you seek to cultivate your spiritual life.
In season three of Catholic Classics, join Fr. Jacob Bertrand and Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris as they read and explain Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. In her “Little Way,” St. Thérèse shows us that, despite our weakness, (or perhaps because of it) God can make us saints through unbounded confidence in his love.
Find out more about the Catholic Classics podcast at ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics.
In season three of Catholic Classics, join Fr. Jacob Bertrand and Fr. Michael-Joseph Paris as they read and explain Story of a Soul: The Autobiography of St. Thérèse of Lisieux. In her “Little Way,” St. Thérèse shows us that, despite our weakness, (or perhaps because of it) God can make us saints through unbounded confidence in his love.
Find out more about the Catholic Classics podcast at ascensionpress.com/catholicclassics.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 6, 2023 • 18min
Bonus Episode: Introduction to Book 10 (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
In this bonus episode, Fr. Gregory Pine and Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk introduce the focus of Book 10 in 'The Confessions of St. Augustine', which is a shift in tone towards reflecting on God. The podcast explores Augustine's pursuit of wisdom, understanding sin, knowing God personally, and understanding God's will for our lives.
Nov 6, 2023 • 23min
Day 36: St. Augustine’s Testimony (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
St. Augustine reflects on his motivations behind making Confession and his approach to sharing his testimony. The podcast explores the significance of confessing one's sins, seeking the truth for genuine penitence, and witnessing to the Lord's work with sincerity and charity. It emphasizes the importance of approaching confession with a focus on God's approval and disapproval.
Nov 5, 2023 • 26min
Day 35: St. Monica’s Death (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
The podcast discusses the death of St. Monica and how St. Augustine copes with grief. They explore the concept of holy indifference and the importance of prioritizing one's relationship with the Lord. They also discuss praying for the deceased and encourage listeners to implore St. Monica's intercession.
Nov 4, 2023 • 28min
Day 34: St. Monica’s Life (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
St. Monica's life is discussed, highlighting her unwavering faith, maternal love, and enduring suffering. The speakers explore the dynamics of relationships and the importance of setting boundaries. Saint Augustine's journey of surpassing difficulties is also discussed, emphasizing the role of love in the mystical life.
Nov 3, 2023 • 28min
Day 33: The Sacrament of Baptism (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
St. Augustine receives baptism with his son and friend. St. Ambrose ends Church persecution. Reflections on grace of sacraments and simplicity of conversion are discussed by Fr. Gregory Pine and Fr. Jacob-Bertrand Janczyk.
Nov 2, 2023 • 22min
Day 32: Litany of Thanksgiving (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
St. Augustine expresses gratitude and prepares to leave his teaching position. The hosts discuss the fear of what you might lose in pursuing Christ and the reorientation of one's life. They explore the challenges of maintaining friendships with anti-Christians and the transformative power of conversion. Two individuals navigate challenges and strengthen their faith through community.
Nov 2, 2023 • 15min
Bonus Episode: Introduction to Book 9 (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
Book 9 of The Confessions of St. Augustine follows his reception into the Church and the sacrifices he makes for conversion. The hosts discuss the challenges of discipleship and the role of the Church and sacraments. They also explore the stories of St. Monica and St. Ambrose, emphasizing commitment and finding true faith. The chapter on loss and grief reflects on St. Augustine's experience and highlights the importance of prayer and faith.
Nov 1, 2023 • 27min
Day 31: The Conversion (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
St. Augustine describes his moment of conversion and the reactions of those closest to him. The podcast explores philosophical proofs against the Manichaeans, internal struggles, and the joy of conversion.
Oct 31, 2023 • 21min
Day 30: Spirit and Flesh (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
St. Augustine discusses the language of the two wills to disprove the Manichaeans. The hosts explore the struggle between sin and grace. They talk about the facade of having it all together while struggling internally. They read from Book 8, Chapters 7-9 of The Confessions of St. Augustine, which contains adult themes.
Oct 30, 2023 • 26min
Day 29: The Radicality of Conversion (The Confessions of St. Augustine)
St. Anthony of the Desert inspired men to convert to Catholicism. The conversion stories of others deeply moved St. Augustine. The podcast discusses the radicality of conversion and the sacrifices it requires.
