Host Bob Johnston and his wife Lynn reflect on William Butler Yeats’ poem "The Second Coming" and what a waning Christian influence means for Western civilization. They connect Yeats’ warning to recent social unrest, cultural polarization, and the erosion of civility seen during the Christmas season.

The episode explores the need for a countercultural return to Christian values, practical ways to restore goodwill and community, and a reminder to keep hope alive as the new year begins.

Deacon Al Lundy reflects on this weekend’s readings (Isaiah, Acts, and Luke) and explains why Jesus—though sinless—was baptized, how baptism prepares us for a life with Christ, and how the Trinity is revealed at the Jordan.

He shares personal stories from parish life (a 99‑year‑old’s funeral and longtime friends), news about parish dalmatics and Curcio retreats, and an invitation to consider baptism, OCIA, and living out the graces of baptism in daily life.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

On this episode of Catholic Conversations host David Liptak speaks with Mike Bull and illustrator Nancy Johnson about The First Night of Christmas — a child-centered retelling of Christ’s birth born from family loss, self-publishing challenges, and a mission to give back to anti-trafficking charities.

Later, author Stephen Thomas discusses his novel Catholic Joe, the role of suffering and adoration in spiritual growth, and the call for Catholic men to lead by faith and compassion. The show highlights storytelling, community outreach, and living faith in daily life.

Deacon Al Lundy welcomes listeners to an Advent-themed episode filled with personal Christmas memories, light-hearted anecdotes about decorations (and a mischievous cat), and a preview of upcoming nativity stories.

He reflects on Gaudete Sunday and explains the readings from Isaiah, James, and Matthew — highlighting the signs of the Messiah, John the Baptist’s questions, and Jesus’ reassurance that God comes in love and salvation.

The episode closes with a call to prepare our inner “stable” for Christ’s coming and an invitation for listeners to submit faith questions to the show.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

On Catholic Conversations host Stan Ketcik speaks with Dr. Peter Howard about his open letter and campaign to advance Venerable Fulton Sheen’s beatification and canonization. They discuss the approved miracle, the unexpected diocesan delays, and why Sheen’s preaching and daily holy hour are urgently relevant today.

The episode explains how listeners can help—prayer, contacting the Diocese of Peoria, sharing resources—and points to FultonSheenInstitute.com and FultonSheenMovement.com for more information, recordings, and ways to get involved.

Deacon Al Lundy shares the recent loss of his mother-in-law and how her peaceful, faith-filled passing highlighted the Catholic focus on resurrection, hope, and the dignity of dying.

He ties this personal story to the second Sunday of Advent readings (Isaiah, Romans, Matthew), calling listeners to repentance, unity, and bearing good spiritual fruit as they prepare for Christ and make use of the sacraments.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Deacon Al reflects on Thanksgiving, family traditions, and the start of Advent, urging listeners to prepare both their homes and hearts for Christ’s coming through worship, repentance, and hope.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Deacon Al reflects on the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King through this weekend’s readings from Samuel, Colossians, and Luke, and explains what it means to live under Christ’s rule.

He shares personal moments — a silent retreat, assisting at Cursillo, turning 70, and the funeral of Monsignor Doug Hennessy — drawing connections between grief, joy, and faith.

The episode closes with the gospel scene of the crucifixion and the good thief’s plea, offering a hopeful reminder to place Christ at the center of our lives.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org