Maybe we first have to ask, DO we use our gifts? We all have been given particular gifts from God, and this Sunday, Pentecost Sunday, is when we recognize that reality, and we need to reflect on what gifts we have, and whether are we sharing them with others for the building up of God's kingdom?
Fri May 17, 2024
11 : 58 min
My summer reading suggestions
A Terrible Kindness - Jo Browning Wroe
You Dreamed of Empires - Alvaro Enrique
Counting by 7s - Holly Goldberg Sloan
A Thousand Ships - Natalie Haynes
Migrations - Charlotte McConaghy
The Covenant of Water - Abraham Verghese
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue - V.E. Schwab
Signal Fires - Dani Shapiro
Ask Again, Yes - Mary Beth Keane
Lessons in Chemistry - Bonnie Garmus
Miss Benson’s Beatle - Rachel Joyce
Middlemarch - George Eliot
Rules of Civility - Amor Towles
Whale Fall - Daniel Kraus
The Buried Giant - Kazuo Ishiguro
Fri May 10, 2024
20 : 27 min
What's it mean to love like Jesus?
It's not easy for us, but it's not impossible either. And there are people in our lives to show us the way.
Fri May 3, 2024
10 : 11 min
Are we meant to live alone?
The short answer - no! We are all connected to one another - like a great vine, and when we recognize that reality, we can accomplish great things.
Fri Apr 26, 2024
8 : 20 min
Who is your good shepherd>
Or maybe it is you who is called to be a good shepherd for others!
Fri Apr 19, 2024
10 : 47 min
Does your faith excite you?
To be truthful, maybe it doesn't - but we need to figure out how to do that - and then share it. This is vital stuff. If we want to stop the exodus of people from our Church, we have got to get excited - and then share it with others - everyone - start with our families - but don't let it stop there.
Fri Apr 12, 2024
13 : 12 min
Is Jesus here yet?
Today we reflect on this question of Saint Thomas the Apostle. And we can ask the same things of ourselves - is Jesus here yet, in our own lives, and if so, can people see Jesus at work in our lives?
Fri Apr 5, 2024
8 : 56 min
My God, God, why have you forsaken me?
We have a special episode of Frank Friar Friday this week. Fr. Vincent Davila, OP, BoilerCatholic, and good friend, joins us today to explore this question that has perplexed and troubled Christians for centuries. Br. Joseph Hilliker, OP joins me as a guest host. Joseph has been on FFF twice. Vincent is writing his doctoral dissertation on this cry of Jesus and provides some fascinating insights. It's the perfect listening experience for this Triduum and Easter week.
Fri Mar 29, 2024
45 : 40 min
Why does God let evil happen?
Here's the answer (maybe) to a question that people have asked for centuries.
Fri Mar 22, 2024
10 : 52 min
This promise is written on your heart!!
What would that mean if someone said that to you? What would you think? I'd think it was pretty important. And it is!!!
Fri Mar 15, 2024
13 : 35 min
What does John 3:16 mean for you?
This is maybe the best-known verse of the Bible - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Fri Mar 8, 2024
8 : 09 min
How do we separate our needs from our wants?
Do we even think about those sorts of decisions? Or do we feel that we are battered by circumstances and things out of our control? Well, there is another way.
Fri Mar 1, 2024
8 : 41 min
What does it mean to be transfigured?
Well, it means we are changed, but changed in a very special way. We don't often want to change, because it can make us uncomfortable or maybe it even hurts a little, but if we trust in God, and in the power of the Holy Spirit, then that change can be something life-changing - and in a good way.
Fri Feb 23, 2024
12 : 37 min
A little trivia contest. What were Jesus' first words to his disciples?
And if they are the first words, they must be important....right? It's "Repent and believe in the Gospel." And that is what we hear again on this First Sunday of Lent.
Fri Feb 16, 2024
10 : 22 min
The life of Saint Francis continues to witness for us a way to live our life
Even 800 years after his death, Francis of Assisi has something to say to us.
Fri Feb 9, 2024
10 : 46 min
I hate to ask this question - do you find your faith boring?
I hate to ask because I think I know the answer - but our faith certainly isn't meant to bore us - hopefully, it will excite us AND the people in our lives.
Fri Feb 2, 2024
10 : 23 min
Who are the authority figures in our lives?
If we accept an authority figure, does that mean we have to change? What if we don't want to change? What if we think we are doing pretty well just as we are? Maybe we need to look in the mirror and answer some tough questions about ourselves.
Fri Jan 26, 2024
11 : 24 min
My trip to Sicily
I just returned from nine nights in Sicily - Palermo, Agrigento, Siracusa, and Taormina - with brief stops along the way. It was spectacular! Hear about the people we met, places we visited, and the food we ate.
Sat Jan 20, 2024
23 : 01 min
Part III of the interview with Colleen Dulle on the Vatican Synod
You don't want to miss this final episode. In this last of a three-part episode, I talk to Colleen Dulle about some of the things that didn't happen at the Synod - the lack of any statements about LGBTQ Catholics or what will be the response of the Church for divorced and remarried Catholics.
Fri Jan 12, 2024
15 : 25 min
Part II of the interview with Colleen Dulle on the Synod on Synodality
In this second part of the interview with Colleen Dulle, Vatican journalist with America magazine, we hear about some of the major themes to emerge from the synod - the role of women in the Church, and the importance of changes to lay and priestly formation, and what to expect this year as the process continues.
Fri Jan 5, 2024
10 : 59 min
What is going on with this Synod on Synodailty?
Pope Francis began a process three years ago that has engaged the worldwide Church. That three-year process culminated in a synod this past October at the Vatican. It will continue throughout 2024.
Colleen Dullee is a journalist for the Jesuit magazine, America. Being a St. Louis native, I was able to interview Colleen while she was visiting family over the Christmas holidays. Colleen covered the synod for America magazine in Rome. Colleen provides an insider's account of what was happening and what we can expect in the months ahead.
Don't miss this three-part interview, beginning this week and continuing for the next two weeks.
Fri Dec 29, 2023
16 : 03 min
If you haven't heard this radio play previously, or if you have, you don't want to miss the Christmas radio play performed by Dominican friars.
Back by popular demand: Dorothy Sayer's play, "The Man Born to be King"
The Dominican brothers perform a radio play written by the acclaimed British mystery writer Dorothy Sayers, author of the Lord Peter Wimsey novels. Fourteen Dominican brothers participated in this effort. We perform the first two scenes in her radio play, in the court of King Herod when the kings tell of their journey to find the messiah, and in the shepherd's home when the three kings visit Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
Fri Dec 22, 2023
36 : 32 min
This is Gaudete Sunday - We are called to rejoice!!
What if we don't feel like rejoicing? What do we do then?
Fri Dec 15, 2023
8 : 27 min
Are you ready for Christmas?
Has anyone asked you that yet? They will. There might be a lot of things on our today list, but what is the most important thing we can do on it? To prepare ourselves for the greatest gift we've ever received - Jesus Christ in our lives.
Fri Dec 8, 2023
11 : 13 min
Reflections on the readings for the First Sunday of Advent
Advent is a season for waiting and expectations. How does our loving God help us?
Fri Dec 1, 2023
11 : 33 min
Some thoughts about dads and Thanksgiving
I have been reading and listening to some things the past week that got me thinking about my dad and Thanksgiving.
Fri Nov 24, 2023
13 : 53 min
How do we use our talents?
How do we use our talents?Fr Patrick Baikauskas OPDescription
God has given us all sorts of gifts. Valuable gifts. Sometimes we may think we don't have much in the way of talent, but God thinks otherwise, and he wants us to be generous in how we share them.
Fri Nov 17, 2023
8 : 11 min
If God were to call you home today, would you be ready?
This is a tough question, but the readings for this coming Sunday, give us a difficult lesson. We might want to avoid the issue, but we can't.
Fri Nov 10, 2023
11 : 02 min
Loving like a mother - a father - can we do that?
For many of us, but sadly not all, our mothers and fathers are the very first - and maybe the most powerful example we receive of unconditional love. Can we imitate that?
Fri Nov 3, 2023
12 : 30 min
Why is it so difficult to love as we ought?
God expects us to love God with everything we've got - AND - to love others. Simple, but it is difficult - because it means we are to love even the people who hate us and hurt us.
Mon Oct 30, 2023
13 : 37 min
Why do we worry about the end times?
I am delighted to introduce my old friend and fraternity brother, Pastor Ken Behr to our FFF audience. Ken is a retired Protestant pastor and has his own podcast - Prophecy Countdown. On that podcast, the end times come up frequently, and especially so when we have harbingers of war in the Holy Land. Listen to our engaging conversation on that topic and others.
Fri Oct 20, 2023
29 : 39 min
What will heaven be like?
The readings for this Sunday compare heaven to the experience of sharing in a great banquet. But there is a question - an invitation - before we get into the feast. How do we respond?
Fri Oct 13, 2023
8 : 50 min
Change can be difficult - but it's not impossible
There are lots of ways that are culture influences us - good and bad - maybe more bad - and so we are all called to conversion - to change - and that can hurt - but it is what will bring us our greatest joy and peace.
Fri Oct 6, 2023
10 : 01 min
How good are we at keeping commitments?
God has made a lot of promises to us. And he keeps them. It's important for us to do the same with the people who know us - our families, friends, neighbors, co-workers - even the stranger. Being truthful and keeping promises is something we can rightfully expect - and then people will expect the same from us.
Fri Sep 29, 2023
10 : 32 min
Are you generous or stingy?
The parable this week is about the generous landowner who pays the workers who worked only an hour the same as those who worked all day. He was generous in ways that can be difficult for us to understand, but it is supposed to be a parable that gets us thinking - how am I called to act?
Thu Sep 21, 2023
11 : 08 min
Why is it so hard to forgive another?
In this Sunday's reading, we hear Jesus being asked by Peter, "How many times do I have to forgive, as many as seven?" Well, actually we're called to do much more, but why is it so difficult for us?
Mon Sep 18, 2023
10 : 43 min
Do you build up - or tear down?
How do we confront the people we love - and the people we live with? Jesus shows us the way.
Fri Sep 8, 2023
8 : 56 min
I talk to Br. Alonso Salas, OP about his work on the streets of Memphis this summer
Listen to this interview with Br. Alonso Salas, OP, a second year student brother and his inspiring story of meeting and accompanying those living on the margins on the streets of Memphis.
Fri Sep 1, 2023
24 : 45 min
What's it like to be a chaplain in a big city hospital trauma center
This week we interview Br. Joseph Hilliker OP who we interviewed last year detailing his summer experience in Kenya. This summer he served as a chaplain in a Houston ER. Hear his inspiring story.
Fri Aug 25, 2023
27 : 15 min
Highlights of our pilgrimage to Poland and Prague
After four attempts over three years - we finally made it - thanks be to God. Hear some highlights of our pilgrimage.
Fri Aug 18, 2023
26 : 07 min
God is her co-counsel
Missy Sims was recently featured in a New York Times article that details her legal suit against big oil companies on behalf of several cities in Puerto Rico. She blames them for climate change and that their indifference has been the cause of the devastating storms that have plagued that island. What comes through very clearly is that she her Catholic faith has guided her in this David vs. Goliath undertaking.
Fri Aug 11, 2023
22 : 43 min
The Transfiguration and Oppenheimer
Transfiguration is about an openness to being changed. I think there is some interesting theological connections to the film Oppenheimer.
Fri Aug 4, 2023
13 : 17 min
What is the most precious thing you own?
This is a question we may need to ask ourselves everyday - but let's really reflect on this question this week. every day
Fri Jul 28, 2023
9 : 52 min
Costa Rica - Pura Vida
Having just returned from a vacation in Costa Rica, I thought I would offer some of my reflections on this extraordinary place. Pura Vida is the official slogan of Costa Rica, and people say it as often as people say Ciao! in Italy. Literally it. means "pure life" but it means more in the way the Ticos use it. It mean's "Everything is great, how about you?" or "Isn't this day beautiful?" or "Gosh, it is so nice to meet you. I failed to mention that on our first night in Costa Rica we got to visit Boiler Catholic Beatriz Cisneros - what a special occasion that was!!
Fri Jul 21, 2023
19 : 14 min
Let's unburden ourselves
We can let ourselves get weighed down. That's a choice. There's another one too.
Fri Jul 7, 2023
8 : 22 min
What's the key to our happiness?
Does the answer surprise you?
Fri Jun 30, 2023
12 : 26 min
We are all worth a lot - a lot - in the eyes of God - and me
and so what are we called to do about it?
Fri Jun 23, 2023
9 : 58 min
Let our hearts be on fire!!!
Yes, we are supposed to love one another as Jesus loves us - but let's kick it up a bit.
Fri Jun 16, 2023
9 : 43 min
We extend a special welcome
This is a welcome statement a made a couple of times at St. Tom's, but I believe we lived it out every day. Feel free to share it - and live it.
Fri Jun 9, 2023
4 : 36 min
What does it mean for YOU when we celebrate the Holy Trinity?
We - meaning priests - tend to make it complicated. It isn't. Celebrating the Trinity means celebrating hospitality.
Sat Jun 3, 2023
17 : 32 min
What do you with all the gifts you have received?
God has given us a lot - maybe we don't notice. Do we keep them to ourselves - or share them? Easy question.
Fri May 26, 2023
10 : 40 min
Go out and share the good news!!
Jesus asks all of us - commissions all of us - to share what he has given each of us.
Fri May 19, 2023
9 : 34 min
Jesus commands us to pray - why does he have to command us?
And a special Mother's Day column from Erma Bombeck (my absolute favorite!)
Fri May 12, 2023
11 : 12 min
What great things will you do today?
We are all called to do amazing things, and with the help of God, we can do them. Are you ready?
Fri May 5, 2023
9 : 45 min
Are YOU a good shepherd?
On Sunday we hear the familiar story of the good shepherd - a beautiful story that images Christ as our good shepherd. But there's more to the story. The story asks for something from each of us.
Fri Apr 28, 2023
12 : 38 min
Stay with us, Lord. Stay with us.
Where are you on your journey of faith?
Fri Apr 21, 2023
9 : 02 min
Where do we find Jesus in our lives?
This week we hear the story of the doubting Thomas. Do we let Jesus into our lives - or do we try to keep him out or contained to Sunday?
Fri Apr 14, 2023
8 : 59 min
What does Easter joy mean for you - for each of us?
Yes, two episodes in one weekend - but it's Easter and I can't let that pass without a special reflection for this Easter Sunday.
Sat Apr 8, 2023
9 : 14 min
Part 2 of my interview on "A Veiled Response"
I was interviewed by Our Sunday Visitor as part of the Eucharistic Revival initiative of the USCCB. The subject? Why do some women wear veils, and how are we called to respond?
Fri Apr 7, 2023
23 : 56 min
A veiled response. Veils! Are the for all women?
I was interviewed recently by OSV as part of a project of the Eucharistic Revival that includes interviews with the preachers involved with the revival. I cannot say I am an expert on the topic, but it provided for an engaging conversation.
Fri Mar 31, 2023
22 : 17 min
What are the ties that bind us?
How do we let our afflictions and fear keep us from living out our lives fully?
Fri Mar 24, 2023
14 : 50 min
What blinds us to what we need to do and how we are called to live?
Maybe we already know the whats? What are the hows?
Fri Mar 17, 2023
10 : 52 min
What will satisfy your thirst?
In the famous story of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, we get a chance to reflect on what we need in our own lives to satisfy our desires.
Fri Mar 10, 2023
8 : 49 min
What does it mean to be transfigured?
And is it something we can explain to others?
Fri Mar 3, 2023
9 : 18 min
A letter from Kiev
Today, February 24, markes the one year anniversary of the Russian invasion of Kiev. I share with you a letter written by one of my Dominican brothers in Kiev reflecting on the past 12 months there.
Fri Feb 24, 2023
15 : 23 min
Lying - if everyone does it, what's the big deal?
Is our culture buying into the notion that lying is okay - because, well, everyone does it.
Fri Feb 17, 2023
24 : 55 min
Is it ever permissible to tell a lie?
What if no one is harmed? What if it is to save someone from danger? What does it even mean to be permissible? To whom, or. to what? What the heck is a lie anyway? Find out the answers to these questions and so much more in our interview with moral theologian, Dr. Stewart Clem, PhD.
Fri Feb 10, 2023
22 : 50 min
We are called to be salt and light.
What's that mean, and how do we live our lives to be the salt of the earth and a light to others?
Fri Feb 3, 2023
10 : 51 min
How do we live the beatitudes?
And what lessons can we learn from our children?
Fri Jan 27, 2023
13 : 51 min
Are you a light to the world?
And if not to the world, to your neighbor, or your family? At the very least?
Fri Jan 20, 2023
11 : 49 min
Let’s talk about what it means to be an evangelized.
This interview with former campus minister and Catholic counselor, Grant Freeman goes into the whys, what and when on sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with our family and friends.
Fri Jan 13, 2023
33 : 20 min
How good are we at putting Christ at the center of our lives?
What do the Magi and the response of King Herod say about us?
Fri Jan 6, 2023
14 : 00 min
New Years' Resolutions
No telling where a New Year's resolution might lead us.
Fri Dec 30, 2022
12 : 34 min
How does Christ come to us at Christmas?
The beginning of the Gospel of John is not what we might think about at Christmas - the word of God - darkness - but it is very much how God enters into our lives.
Fri Dec 23, 2022
9 : 52 min
Fourth week of Advent
What do our dreams tell us about ourselves?
Fri Dec 16, 2022
8 : 40 min
Third Sunday of Advent
Are you ready for Christmas? Rejoice, be patient, and be a messenger.
Fri Dec 9, 2022
10 : 31 min
Do I really need to change?
There's a lot of bad stuff happening in the world. How do we change our world? "Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me."
Fri Dec 2, 2022
10 : 13 min
Wow! It doesn't get any better than this!!
My almost famous story about waiting in line at Ted Drewes - and waiting for Christ to enter our lives.
Fri Nov 25, 2022
10 : 07 min
Who do we call our king - our ruler?
We have just had elections. There have been elections in other countries - new rulers chosen. Who do we consider our ruler?
Fri Nov 18, 2022
13 : 17 min
We are motivated by fear or love?
The choice is ours - let Jesus and his way be our guide.
Fri Nov 11, 2022
10 : 21 min
What is heaven like?
We think a fair amount about heaven - not a bad thing - but why do so many of us fear getting there?
Fri Nov 4, 2022
13 : 42 min
An interview on thoughts about how we help to bring others back to the faith
This interview with my fellow Dominican Br. Bernard Wierdak discusses his own journey of faith and gives some important insights into how we are each called to live out our faith life.
Thu Oct 27, 2022
23 : 33 min
What does Church Lady from SNL teach us?
Church Lady and the gospel reading this weekend both want us to look into our own hearts before we judge others. A tough thing to do.
Fri Oct 21, 2022
10 : 58 min
Pray - pray - pray - don't give up.
We are told to persevere in prayer - but some times we can't seem to wait for God's response.
Fri Oct 14, 2022
10 : 36 min
I say "thanks be to God!" a lot. Why?
It comes from an experience I had in Oaxaca.
Fri Oct 7, 2022
9 : 28 min
Increase our faith
The apostles ask Jesus to increase their faith - and his response is astounding.
Fri Sep 30, 2022
9 : 45 min
What do I do when I encounter a poor person on the street?
This can be a constant challenge for us. How do we, who live in the richest country in the world, live out the gospel message to love our neighbor?
Fri Sep 23, 2022
7 : 56 min
How do we address that ongoing challenge - how to be the face of Christ?
Despite the economic challenges Americans face, we are well off compared to others we encounter in our lives. What's our response?
Thu Sep 15, 2022
17 : 39 min
Are you the lost sheep or the prodigal child?
Whatever you might consider yourself, we have a merciful God that is waiting for us.
Fri Sep 9, 2022
13 : 23 min
Come Together
What do the Beatles and Earth Wind and Fire have to offer us on coming together in harmony and peace?
Fri Sep 2, 2022
14 : 45 min
How do we let our pride prevent us from giving our best?
The parable that we hear on Sunday calls us to put others first - and if we do, we will find ourselves leading truly fulfilling lives.
Fri Aug 26, 2022
10 : 53 min
Part two of our interview with Br. Joseph Cullen Hilliker OP
Don't miss the fascinating conclusion to Br. Joseph's account of his summer in Kenya.
Fri Aug 19, 2022
18 : 11 min
An interview with a Dominican student brother about his summer in Africa
You won't want to miss my interview with Br. Joseph Cullen Hilliker and his insightful experiences in Kenya. Part one of two parts.
Fri Aug 12, 2022
17 : 55 min
What is the greatest gift you have ever received?
And would you share that gift with everyone you know?
Fri Aug 5, 2022
10 : 29 min
What is going to bring us peace and joy in our lives?
Is it the material things we seek, or something else?
Fri Jul 29, 2022
9 : 30 min
Today's reflection begins with one of my favorite humorous anecdotes
Do we need to pray? Do you feel sometimes like God isn't listening?
Fri Jul 22, 2022
9 : 36 min
Are we a Martha or a Mary?
Do we let the busy-ness of your day keep us from what is truly important?
Fri Jul 15, 2022
15 : 24 min
What is truth?
We continue our conversation with Dr. Ann Garrido. Today we hear Ann talk about how we manage conflict within our lives, with our families and friends and how and where do we find the truth and have those difficult conversations?
Fri Jul 8, 2022
21 : 01 min
Does my Catholic faith have. anything to offer me in the day-to-day decisions of life?
We often compartmentalize our lives, thinking our faith is helpful only in spiritual matters. Catholic writer and teacher Dr. Ann Garido provides some invaluable insights into what thousands of Catholics across the country have to say about the challenges of their daily lives and how our Catholic faith can guide us.
Fri Jul 1, 2022
21 : 57 min
Does your yes mean yes?
The challenges of making commitments.
Fri Jun 24, 2022
12 : 09 min
Why go to church?
Maybe today's reflection provides ONE of the answers.
Fri Jun 17, 2022
8 : 32 min
My summer reading suggestions
These are the books I mention in this episode - IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER:
1. The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles
2. The Sweetness of Water by Nathan Harris
3. Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr
4. The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams
5. Deception Cove by Owen Laukkanen
6. Leave the Gun, Take the CAnnoli by Mark Seal
7. The Last Bus to Wisdom by Ivan Doig
8. The Distant Dead by Heather Young
9. Evidence of Things Unseen by Marianne Wiggins
10. Happy Go Lucky by David Sedaris
Fri Jun 10, 2022
20 : 11 min
Reflecting a bit on my trip to Rome and how we are called to be "Church" to one another
Maybe too often we get overwhelmed by the beauty of our churches and fail to recognize what those churches symbolize.
Fri Jun 3, 2022
17 : 19 min
How to we respond when we have lost someone close to us?
The Feast of the Ascension is when we experience Christ's leave-taking from his disiciples. We experience losses in our own lives all the time - sometimes quite unexpected - like the tragedy of children being murdered. There is no easy. way - but the way of Jesus can ease those losses?
Fri May 27, 2022
14 : 57 min
Where is Jesus?
As we approach the Feast of the Ascension next week, we may wonder like the disciples of Jesus, is Jesus still with us?
Fri May 20, 2022
11 : 32 min
How do we love like Jesus?
It is not easy, but it is not complicated either and yet it is what each of us is called to do, not only with those around us but with anyone we meet.
Fri May 13, 2022
13 : 03 min
Mothers - Our Good Shepherds
This Sunday is Good Shepherd Sunday - and it is also Mother's Day. Let's remember our moms and the sacrifices our parents have made for us.
Fri May 6, 2022
13 : 24 min
Do you love me?
Jesus asks Peter three times, "do you love me?" Why? What does Jesus' questioning mean for us?
Fri Apr 29, 2022
13 : 27 min
This podcast was recorded today from the Basilica of San Clemente in Rome and features an interview with Fr. Vivian Boland, OP - a Dominican Friar, author and teacher
Fr. Vivian Boland wrote a book recently entitled The Spirit of Catholicism. We talked about this book has to contribute to the ongoing synod of the Church, what the idea of spirituality v. religious means, and what our Church has to say to our 21st Century world.
Fri Apr 22, 2022
23 : 54 min
What does Easter mean for us?
Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior? I have a different response to that question than you might expect.
Fri Apr 15, 2022
10 : 41 min
The Arrest and Trial of Jesus Christ
Today you can hear another dramatic presentation. This podcast is the arrest and trial of Jesus Christ. I am rather excited to show case this production. The actors are alumni of Providence College (the only Dominican college in the country under the direction of the friars). Fr. Matthew Powell, O.P., is an associate professor emeritus of theatre and is the director. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Fri Apr 8, 2022
18 : 17 min
Do we let ourselves get consumed by all the "what ifs" in our life?
The message of the gospel this last week before Holy Week is that we have a loving, merciful God that forgives all our sins and wants us to focus on the gift of this day. Every day!!
Fri Apr 1, 2022
13 : 55 min
The prayer for Consecration of Russia and Ukraine
Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has asked all people to pray this prayer today to consecrate Ukraine and Russia to the Blessed Virgin Mary. As the Holy Father stated, "This Act of Consecration is meant to be a gesture of the universal Church, which in this dramatic moment lifts up to God, through his Mother and ours, the cry of pain of all those who suffer and implore and end to violence, and to entrust the future of our human family to the Queen of Peace."
I dedicate this podcast today to that prayer.
Fri Mar 25, 2022
17 : 13 min
Broadcasting from Bayamón, Puerto Rico on a spring break mission trip.
I talk with Br. Peter Lewitzke about our mission trip in Puerto Rico.
Sat Mar 19, 2022
23 : 13 min
Are you ready to be transformed?
We leave today for a mission trip to Puerto Rico. It can be a life-changing experience, but many of the things we do day-to-day can transform us - if we are open to the power of the Holy Spirit.
Fri Mar 11, 2022
8 : 29 min
Episode 75
As we begin our Lenten journey, let's think about the temptations we experience in life, and how our loving God has equipped us to overcome them - and the models God has given us.
Fri Mar 4, 2022
12 : 20 min
Is that a splinter in your eye I see?
As we approach Lent, what do we need to see in ourselves - how do we know what to say - how are we called to act?
Fri Feb 25, 2022
14 : 04 min
Where in the world is Fr. Patrick?
I’m take a few days off. Relaxing in Key Largo at the home of Jennie Block, a great friend of the Order.
Fri Feb 18, 2022
0 : 41 min
Saint Thomas Aquinas can teach us about hope in times of despair
This interview with Professor Christopher Beem of Penn State University looks at how the teachings of Thomas Aquinas on the theological virtues can teach us to have hope in the challenging times we face in our country.
Fri Feb 11, 2022
28 : 47 min
Episode 72 - We hear Jesus calling his disciples to be fishers of men and women.
Does that apply to us too!!!??? What do you think? Are you called to be holy? Are you called to be a saint? Is there a difference?
Fri Feb 4, 2022
11 : 18 min
The readings this weekend call each of us to do something very difficult
It sounds easy - Jesus knew it wasn't. His neighbors hated what he had to tell them - love your neighbor as yourself.
Fri Jan 28, 2022
11 : 09 min
Reflecting on the deaths of my brother David and my cousin Sharon
How do we grieve? Do we trust in the love of God to help us in accepting our losses?
Fri Jan 21, 2022
22 : 11 min
What does the wedding feast of Cana have to say to us in these difficult times?
David Brooks has an op-ed piece in today's New York Times that talks about America coming apart at the seams. That essay and this weekend's readings spoke to me about how we can be the source of what can provide a stitch or two to prevent our country from splitting apart - it begins with us. Here's a link to that essay: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/13/opinion/america-falling-apart.html#commentsContainer
Fri Jan 14, 2022
12 : 43 min
Books I read in 2021 - and I recommend them all
I got to do more reading than ever in this year of challenges. Here are some suggestions that came from me by way of my listeners.
Fri Jan 7, 2022
25 : 54 min
As we reflect on the end of the year, how have we changed?
Can we look back on the year and see any changes? Have there been any epiphanies - moments when we have come to understand something that is very important to us?
Fri Dec 31, 2021
16 : 29 min
The Man Born to be King - a radio play by Dorothy L. Sayers
The Dominican brothers perform a radio play written by the acclaimed British mystery writer Dorothy Sayers, author of the Lord Peter Wimsey novels. Fourteen Dominican brothers participated in this effort. We perform the first two scenes in her radio play, in the court of King Herod when the kings tell of their journey to find the messiah, and in the shepherd's home when the three kings visit Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
Fri Dec 24, 2021
36 : 32 min
When I met Bob Dole and what that has to do with Advent
Back in 1997, I met Senator Bob Dole for the first time, and it impressed me in ways that stick with me to this day - and yes, it has something to do with Advent.
Fri Dec 17, 2021
16 : 04 min
Part two of my interview with author of the Crisis of Bad Preaching - Fr. Josh Whitfield
This is an interview for everyone who preaches and cares about good preaching.
Fri Dec 10, 2021
25 : 53 min
The Crisis of Bad Preaching - an interview with the author - Fr. Josh Whitfield
Former Master of the Dominicans, Fr. Timothy Radcliffe says of Fr. Whitfield's book, "He pulls no punches. This book offers just the challenge that we need to hear. It is beautifully written and full of wisdom." Whether you are a preacher or sitting in the pews, you will want to listen to this podcast.
Fri Dec 3, 2021
22 : 17 min
Episode 62 - Recollections of past Thanksgivings
I share memories of previous Thanksgiving days in my life.
Fri Nov 26, 2021
20 : 09 min
Episode 61 - A reflection on the readings for this Sunday - The Feast of Christ the King
Which kingdom will we choose?
Fri Nov 19, 2021
12 : 36 min
Episode 60 - Carpe diem! How are we at "seizing the day?"
This reflection on the readings for this Sunday - the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - can inspire us to examine how are we doing in recognizing that we have this moment to live life to the fullest!
Fri Nov 12, 2021
13 : 28 min
Episode 59 - How do the readings about two widows this Sunday call us to examine our own calls to love one another?
The readings this Sunday and the past two Sundays can be very challenging to us. What keeps us from truly loving our neighbor as ourselves?
Fri Nov 5, 2021
18 : 45 min
Dealing with mental health issues as a Catholic
This interview with Fr. Nick Monco, OP, now a chaplain at the Benedict Institute of Hope College, reflects on a TED Talk that Fr. Nick gave that aired this week on mental health issues and specifically what do our Catholic faith traditions have to offer in dealing with mental health challenges. (NB -IT LOOKS ON THE SPOTIFY LINKS THAT THIS PODCAST IS OVER 40 MINUTES LONG - IT IS NOT - IT IS ABOUT 23 MINUTES LONG)
Fri Oct 29, 2021
44 : 05 min
Interview with missionary doctor working in Haiti
Dr. Ellen Lawson is an emergency room physician who began her career as a religious sister working in Congo. Dr. Lawson and I both serve on the board of the St Dominique Foundation that administers an orphanage in Titanyen, Haiti founded by a Dominican priest. Dr. Lawson provides her first-person account of the difficult conditions of serving in Haiti - now!
Fri Oct 22, 2021
27 : 48 min
A review of Sue Monk Kidd's The Book of Longings
Best-selling novelist Sue Monk Kidd provides a creative setting for the life of Jesus - as a married man.
Fri Oct 15, 2021
19 : 30 min
Remembering Charlotte Scarcelli
Sort of a little break from the normal program to remember a devoted parishioner and friend of St. Tom's.
Fri Oct 8, 2021
10 : 24 min
Episode 54
September 30 was the birthday of my mother AND father. Today's podcast is a reflection on them.
Fri Oct 1, 2021
20 : 20 min
Episode 53
I offer some reflections on the events of September 11, 2001 and the challenges they present. Here's a link to another podcast I mention in the broadcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-bit-of-optimism/id1515385282?i=1000527216316
Fri Sep 24, 2021
19 : 32 min
Episode 52
Remembering events on the occasion of my 50th high school reunion.
Fri Sep 17, 2021
21 : 50 min
Episode 51 - the conclusion to my travelogue on Africa
I'm out of quarantine and ready to finish my account of my trip to Africa.
Fri Sep 10, 2021
20 : 08 min
Announcement about my COVID status
I've test positive. No episode this week.
Fri Sep 3, 2021
1 : 04 min
Episode 49 - Into Africa - part one
Hear about my trip to Kenya - my first to Africa - and my safari experiences.
Fri Aug 27, 2021
24 : 21 min
Episode 48 - Part two of our conversation with Jim McElroy
Prayer simply must be a part of our life if we hope to grow spiritually. There are many forms. Jim and I talk about that need we all have to take care of ourselves and how prayer is a vital way to do that.
Fri Aug 20, 2021
25 : 22 min
Episode 47 - Part one of two parts - interview with Jim McElroy
Jim McElroy talks about his own experience with centering prayer as an acolyte of Fr. Thomas Keating. If you're interested in centering prayer or know someone in recovery that might be helped by this ancient form of prayer of the Catholic Church, you won't want to miss this fascinating conversation with Jim McElroy.
Fri Aug 13, 2021
26 : 03 min
Episode 46
The last segment of our three-part interview with nationally syndicated speaker and best-selling author Dr. Walt Larimore.
Fri Aug 6, 2021
16 : 12 min
Episode 45
Part two of this amazing interview with Dr. Walt Larimore who gives us valuable insights on what it means to be truly, totally healthy.
Fri Jul 30, 2021
22 : 16 min
Episode 44
We begin a three-part series with Dr. Walt Larimore, physician and author of more than 40 books, including the best seller Fit Over 50. Dr. Walt has appeared on many 360 with Anderson Cooper, Good Morning America, and many other news broadcasts based on his medical expertise and engaging conversation.
Fri Jul 23, 2021
23 : 17 min
Episode 43 - Part 3 of our interview with author Gary Schmidt
The conclusion to our interview with award-winning novelist and teacher Gary Schmidt.
Fri Jul 16, 2021
34 : 05 min
Episode 42 - Part II of my conversation with award winning author Gary Schmidt
Listen to author Gary Schmidt provide some fascinating insights to his writing, inspiration and motivation.
Fri Jul 9, 2021
23 : 11 min
Episode 41 - Part one of interview with Gary Schmidt
Award-winning author - (National Book Award finalist and Newberry prize winner) - former Yankees (now Mets fan) - teacher - medievalist - UofI grad - what more can I say? A great storyteller. Listen to the first of our three-part interview with this fascinating man.
Fri Jul 2, 2021
22 : 28 min
Episode 40
Listen to part two of our conversation with author, composer, singer, spiritual director, Steve Givens, as he discusses his personal experience with chemotherapy and a usually fatal disease.
Fri Jun 25, 2021
23 : 42 min
Episode 39
I talk with Steve Givens who has written widely on spiritual direction and his own battle with a rare disease.
Fri Jun 18, 2021
23 : 00 min
Episode 38
Stories of best friends.
Fri Jun 11, 2021
23 : 01 min
Episode 37
"We are what we eat." - St. Augustine. Oh my goodness!! Do I look like gelato and no one has mentioned it??
Fri Jun 4, 2021
17 : 27 min
Episode 36
An interview from Houston where Dominican friar Br. Greg Dunn will profess his solemn vows on May 28. Hear how this young man, who once aspired to be a shortstop in the major leagues, journeyed to become a vowed religious.
Fri May 28, 2021
26 : 51 min
Episode 35
Part two of our conversation with seminarian Mark Hellinger
Fri May 21, 2021
22 : 14 min
Episode 34
We begin a break from our format and have an interview with seminarian Mark Hellinger
Fri May 14, 2021
25 : 39 min
Episode 33
More memorable moments from my time at St. Tom's and Purdue.
Fri May 7, 2021
23 : 11 min
Episode 32
Some of my most memorable moments at St. Tom's - Part I
Fri Apr 30, 2021
21 : 43 min
Episode 31
How we began St. Tom's mission trips to Titanyen, Haiti.
Fri Apr 23, 2021
22 : 02 min
Episode 30
Mission trips and pilgrimages - unique encounters with our faith.
Fri Apr 16, 2021
20 : 55 min
Episode 29
How do we keep our young people engaged? The St. Tom's way!!!
Fri Apr 9, 2021
21 : 34 min
Episode 28
My first years at St. Tom's and a little of the inspiration.
Fri Apr 2, 2021
21 : 02 min
Episode 27
I begin my time at St Tom's with my ordination and then my installation as the pastor. What a whirlwind experience! And a blessed one!!
Fri Mar 26, 2021
22 : 04 min
Episode 26
The episode that was difficult to get to: after a lifetime of waiting to answer God's call, my ordination, but not without some bumps in getting there.
Fri Mar 19, 2021
21 : 02 min
Episode 25
I have my first experience of ministry at St. Tom's and Purdue (Boiler Up!) and finish up my time and studies in St. Louis.
Fri Mar 12, 2021
20 : 20 min
Episode 24
I begin my studies in Saint Louis and as an outcome of the Boston scandals, we are visited by representatives from the Vatican.
Fri Mar 5, 2021
21 : 28 min
Episode 23
My life as a Dominican friar begins in earnest - my first year as a novice in Denver.
Fri Feb 26, 2021
20 : 51 min
Episode 22
Chicago - an end to one journey and the beginning of a new one.
Fri Feb 19, 2021
21 : 28 min
Episode 21
My time in Springfield Illinois posed some unique challenges and new opportunities.
Fri Feb 12, 2021
22 : 59 min
Episode 20
The beginning of a new journey.
Fri Feb 5, 2021
21 : 06 min
Homily for the Feast of the Presentation
Homily
Wed Feb 3, 2021
8 : 23 min
Episode 19
"I'm going to Charleston where there's still some grace and charm." -Rhett Butler
Fri Jan 29, 2021
20 : 40 min
Episode 18
My years working for Big Jim Thompson - and the second inauguration of Ronald Reagan - and my last days in DC - at least for a little while.
Fri Jan 22, 2021
21 : 57 min
Episode 18
My days working for Big Jim Thompson - the second Reagan inauguration - and my last years in DC - at least for a little while.
Fri Jan 22, 2021
21 : 57 min
Episode 17
Further reflections on the events in the U.S. Capitol and I begin my time with working for the State of Illinois in Washington and Governor Jim Thompson.
Fri Jan 15, 2021
20 : 19 min
Episode 16
Reflections on this week and my experiences of working in the Capitol and on the Hill.
Fri Jan 8, 2021
21 : 17 min
Episode 15
So where were you on January 1, 2000? It was a big night for me!!
Fri Jan 1, 2021
20 : 53 min
Episode 14
The voice of Christmas past and present.
Fri Dec 25, 2020
21 : 09 min
Episode 13
So now you get to hear what the rest of my first trip to Italy was like.
Fri Dec 18, 2020
22 : 32 min
Episode 12
Patrick goes to Italy for the first time. Mamma mia!!
Fri Dec 11, 2020
21 : 02 min
Homily from the Feastnof the Immaculate Conception
I gave this homily on December 8, 2020 at the WashU Medical School. It touches on some current issues.
Thu Dec 10, 2020
7 : 39 min
Episode 11
Hear about my first full years in Washington DC.
Fri Dec 4, 2020
19 : 54 min
Episode 10
My first full year in Washington DC - a year of many changes - great highs and lows.
Fri Nov 27, 2020
22 : 30 min
Episode 9
When Fr. Patrick makes his podcast singing debut.
Fri Nov 20, 2020
21 : 09 min
Episode 8
Some thoughts about the election which provides a nice segue to the beginning of my career in Washington DC.
Thu Nov 12, 2020
22 : 14 min
Episode 7
College comes to an end - and I begin the journey in the "real world"
Fri Nov 6, 2020
22 : 09 min
Episode 6
So we continue with my college experiences and a variety of firsts for me.
Fri Oct 30, 2020
21 : 33 min
Episode 5
Another weekly reflection from Fr. Patrick Baikauskas, OP.
Fri Oct 23, 2020
21 : 50 min
Episode 4
I talk about the end of my high school life and move on to college.
Fri Oct 16, 2020
20 : 53 min
Episode 3
The Frank Friar has his first experience of being called to the priesthood in junior high school.
Fri Oct 9, 2020
22 : 03 min
Episode 2
Further reflections of Fr. Patrick on his early life.
Fri Oct 2, 2020
20 : 25 min
My First Podcast! | Sept 25, 2020
As I begin my podcast journey, I decided to speak about something in which I have some expertise - me. I will spend the first few podcasts giving you a brief biography so that the future reflections will have some context. How exactly did I get to the place where I am now - a Dominican friar?
Wed Sep 23, 2020
20 : 33 min
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