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In this episode, Brendan Gotta sits down with Father Peregrine to explore the powerful and mysterious story of Saint Philomena and why her witness still matters today.

Though little is historically known about her life, Saint Philomena’s story has captivated the Church for centuries. From the discovery of her relics to the widespread devotion of saints like John Vianney, her life is marked by courage, purity, and total devotion to Christ.

Father Peregrine shares the fascinating history surrounding her life, the miracles attributed to her intercession, and the deeper meaning behind her martyrdom at such a young age. Together, they reflect on what it means to be a witness to the faith today and how Saint Philomena challenges each of us to give ourselves fully to God.

This conversation is not just about learning a saint’s story. It is an invitation to live it.

Featured Book

My Name is Philomena: A Saint Story by Father Peregrine

Mentioned Resources

St. Michael's Abbey

The Abbot's Circle

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In this episode, Brendan Gotta sits down with Dr. Thomas McGovern to explore the reality of what Jesus endured during His Passion—and why it matters for our spiritual lives today.

During Lent, and especially on Good Friday, we hear the Gospel accounts of Christ’s suffering: the agony in the garden, the scourging, the crowning with thorns, the carrying of the cross, and the crucifixion. But many of us have wondered what these events actually meant physically. What did the human body endure? What truly happened during those final hours?

Drawing from his medical expertise and years of research, Dr. McGovern walks through the Passion with both scientific clarity and deep reverence. He addresses common misconceptions about the crucifixion, explains the physical realities behind events like the “blood and water” from Christ’s side, and offers a powerful look at the depth of suffering Jesus freely embraced out of love.

More importantly, this conversation moves beyond the physical details to the heart of the Gospel: the meaning of suffering. Together, Brendan and Dr. McGovern reflect on redemptive suffering, what it means to “offer it up,” and how Christ’s Passion gives purpose to our own crosses. This episode is not about sensationalizing pain, but about drawing closer to Jesus through a deeper understanding of His love.

About Dr. Thomas McGovern

Dr. Thomas McGovern is a physician and author who has spent years studying the medical, historical, and theological dimensions of Christ’s Passion. His work brings together scientific insight and Catholic teaching to help readers more fully grasp the reality of what Jesus suffered—and how that transforms our understanding of suffering today.

📚 Featured Book

What Christ Suffered: A Doctor’s Journey Through the Passion by Dr. Thomas McGovern
https://www.amazon.com/

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This episode is brought to you by Truthly.

Truthly helps you grow in clarity, conviction, and confidence by delivering faithful, trustworthy answers grounded in Christian truth. Whether you’re seeking deeper formation or practical guidance for everyday life, Truthly equips you to think clearly and live boldly.

Learn more at https://truthly.ai/

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If this episode helped you reflect more deeply on Christ’s Passion, share it with a friend this Lent.

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Ida Görres is one of the most insightful Catholic writers of the twentieth century—yet many Catholics today have never heard her name. In this episode, Brendan Gotta sits down with Jennifer Bryson to explore the life and legacy of Ida Görres, a fearless German Catholic thinker whose writings on holiness, suffering, and the lives of the saints continue to challenge and inspire readers today.

Jennifer shares how she first discovered Görres and why her work remains so relevant in our modern world. Together they discuss Görres’ reflections on authentic sanctity, her candid approach to the struggles of Christian life, and why her writing offers a refreshing alternative to overly sentimental portrayals of holiness. This conversation invites listeners to rediscover a bold Catholic voice who reminds us that sainthood is lived through real human struggles, grace, and perseverance.

About Jennifer Bryson

Jennifer Bryson, Ph.D., is a Catholic writer, scholar, and translator who has dedicated significant work to introducing English-speaking audiences to the writings of Ida Görres. With a background in theology, languages, and international affairs, Bryson has spent years studying Görres’ thought and helping bring her profound reflections on holiness and the spiritual life to a wider audience.

Learn more about Jennifer Bryson: https://jenniferbryson.net/

📚 Featured Book

Bread Grows in Winter by Ida Görres
https://ignatius.com/bread-grows-in-winter-bgwp/

Want to learn more about Ida? Check out this website dedicated to her - https://www.idagoerres.org/.

🙌 Sponsored by Truthly

This episode is brought to you by Truthly.

Truthly helps you grow in clarity, conviction, and confidence by delivering faithful, trustworthy answers grounded in Christian truth. Whether you’re seeking deeper formation or practical guidance for everyday life, Truthly equips you to think clearly and live boldly.

Learn more at https://truthly.ai/

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If this episode helped you discover a new Catholic thinker, share it with a friend who loves learning about the saints and the spiritual life.

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