Catholic Answers Live

“Are we transported to the Cross at every Mass?” This question opens a discussion about the profound connection between the Eucharist and Christ’s sacrifice. The conversation also addresses whether the SSPX can consecrate bishops without approval, the meaning of the word “Mass,” and a simple explanation of consecration for those seeking clarity. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:40 – Are we literally transported at the foot of the cross at mass? 14:20 – Is it true that the SSPX should be able to consecrate bishops without approval because that’s how it was done before Vatican II? 25:00 – What does the word Mass mean? 36:18 – I struggle with understanding what the word consecration means? I need it explained to me in a very elementary way.

“Can I attend an SSPX Mass?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of attending Mass at an SSPX chapel, alongside inquiries about the significance of the altar’s elevation, the implications of not attending Sunday Mass, and the historical context of Latin Mass celebrations. The episode addresses various aspects of Catholic worship and practice. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:40 – Can I go to Mass at an SSPX chapel? 11:29 – Why is the altar elevated and the people in the pews tend to sit lower? Does that mean the people are lower than the priest? 16:32 – What can be done where all churches would have the option to celebrate the Latin Mass? Was Summorum Pontificum retracted? 21:07 – Can you explain why it’s a mortal sin not to attend Sunday Mass? 29:04 – Are we supposed to make the sign of the cross after praying the confiteor? 32:24 – During Covid, Masses were shut down. Was this something historical where the mass was shut down? 35:05 – I’m a new Catholic. Should we be raising our hands during the Our Father? 38:55 – How is it called a Traditional Latin Mass if it started in Aramaic and Greek? 44:14 – Can you receive communion with venial sin on your soul? What if you receive communion without realizing you had committed a mortal sin? 47:55 – What if one can’t find a Latin mass outside of SSPX? Where should they go? 51:30 – I believe the hand holding during Our Father did not start as imitating the priest but became natural after a retreat.

Questions Covered: 04:15 – What is the theology of the body and why do I always here about it? 13:54 – Is it a sin to avoid news or social media because it disturbs my peace? 20:15 – Is something wrong if i don’t feel anything during mass or prayer? 29:23 – Is it okay to pray while distracted? 33:29 – What do I do when I keep falling into the same sin and feel numb about it? 39:30 – Can I fantasize about my own spouse? 44:40 – Could an AI ever be culpable for sin? 49:30 – If God already knows what I’m going to do, what is the point of prayer?

Questions Covered: 01:37 – How can I tell the difference between mental illness and genuine spiritual attack? 06:15 – What’s wrong with the Oiji board 12:40 – Can non-catholics come to the Catholic Church for help combat demonic activity? 14:40 – Tarot cards, crystals 21:33 – What do demons do? Temptation, infestation, … 23:35 – Infestation 33:33 – Obsession 36:00 – Posession 39:40 – Top 3 things you can do to avoid posession 43:25 – Generational curses 47:00 – Are ghosts real? 51:45 – What’s the difference between superstition and faith?

“How Is Mary the Mother of God?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of Mary in Catholic theology, including her role in Revelation 12 and the implications of Matthew 1:25 regarding her relationship with Joseph. Other topics include the biblical foundations for the Immaculate Conception and the Assumption, as well as addressing concerns about Marian apparitions. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:50 – I’m a former non-denom. Mary is why I became Catholic. Does the Church see a connection between Rev 12. And Mary giving birth to God on earth? 11:40 – Can you elaborate on Matthew 1:25 and why it doesn’t mean that Mary and Joseph eventually had relations? 18:20 – What biblical evidence is there for Immaculate Conception and the Assumption? 29:30 – Can you help me understand the recent document that backed off the idea of Mary as Mediatrix? 35:49 – My aunt says Marian apparitions are demonic. We tell her Mary always points to her son, but she doesn’t listen. How can we reach her? 43:00 – Where is the Immaculate Conception rooted in the Bible? 48:30 – Why do Catholics say the prayer, “Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, we love you. Save souls.” Mary and Joseph don’t save souls. Jesus does.

“Should we pray to Mary?” This question opens a discussion on the role of Mary in Catholicism, addressing biblical support for praying to her and the concept of mediatorship. Other topics include the significance of Mary’s titles, the Immaculate Conception, and the belief in her perpetual virginity, providing a comprehensive look at Marian devotion. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:25 – Where does the Bible say we should pray to Mary? 05:30 – Isn’t Jesus the one mediator between God and man? 10:20 – If Mary was sinless, why did she need a savior? 14:35 – Where is the Immaculate Conception in the Bible? 18:55 – Why do Catholics give Mary titles that seem to belong only to Jesus? 21:25 – Doesn’t calling Mary “Mother of God” make her sound like a goddess? 30:00 – Didn’t Mary have other children after Jesus? Why do Catholics say Mary remained a virgin if the Bible mentions Jesus’ brothers and sisters? 44:32 – Why do Catholics kneel before statues of Mary? 48:25 – Isn’t the rosary vain repetition? 51:00 – Why ask Mary to pray for us when we can go directly to God?

“Why did Jesus have to die for our sins?” This question opens a discussion on the necessity of Christ’s sacrifice, addressing whether God could have chosen another path for forgiveness. The conversation also touches on Calvin’s view of predestination and resources for understanding salvation from a Catholic perspective, along with a variety of other intriguing questions. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:46 – Why did Jesus have to die for our sins? Couldn’t God have forgiven us another way? 10:44 – Can you explain Calvin’s understanding of predestination and if we still disagree with what he taught? 16:21 – Is there a resource that gives a clear total overall understanding of salvation from the Catholic perspective? 23:30 – Lightning round questions 48:08 – I think everything you are saying aligns with the protestant view of absolute corruption. Am I wrong on this?

“Can we be saved by faith alone?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of salvation, touching on key concepts such as what salvation truly means. The conversation also addresses the relationship between Scripture and tradition, and explores the idea of “once saved, always saved,” providing a comprehensive look at these important theological topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:40 – What is Salvation? 15:55 – Can we be saved by faith alone? 35:15 – I’m reformed presbyterian and looking into Catholic. Regarding. CCC 74-82. Does one need to view scripture and tradition on equal footing in order to have salvation? 44:05 – Once Saved Always Saved

“Does the Bible teach the invocation of saints?” This question opens a discussion on the role of saints in Catholic belief, alongside inquiries about the end of animal sacrifice in Scripture, the presence of archangels, and the interpretation of 2 Corinthians 5:8 regarding Purgatory. The conversation also touches on the differences in Gospel accounts of Judas’s betrayal. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:05 – Does the Bible teach the invocation of saints? 13:30 – Where in the Bible is the end of animal sacrifice? And why was it ended? 20:15 – Where are the archangels in the Bible? 23:58 – Matthew, Mark, and Luke all have Judas kissing Jesus. John does not. Which one is true? 32:55 – 2 Cor.5:8 says to be absent with the body is to be present with Christ. Do protestants think that they all go to heaven? What about Purgatory? 41:35 – Is the Deuterocanon read in the same way the rest of the Old Testament is? 48:32 – Regarding Isaiah 37:36 records the siege of Jesusalem by the Assyrians. Was the Angel that was sent to save Jerusalem actually a pharaoh from Egypt? Is it possible that the bible recorded the pharaoh and his army as an angel from God?

“What book had the most controversy?” This question leads to a discussion about the canon’s acceptance, alongside inquiries about the historical evidence for the papacy beyond key scripture, the appropriateness of having a menorah in a Catholic home, and the reasons behind variations in biblical translations. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:35 – What book in the canon had the most controversy about its acceptance? 16:21 – I’m considering Catholicism but am not convinced by the historical and scriptural evidence for the papacy. Beyond Matthew 16 and Luke 22, what is the strongest evidence that the early church recognized the papacy? 20:45 – The book of Exodus mentions a menorah. It’s not necessarily a Catholic symbol, but since it’s in the Bible is it okay to have a menorah in your house? 29:20 – Why is Matthew 17:20 (“But this kind is not cast out but by prayer and fasting”) excluded from certain translations? The Douay Rheims has it and the RSV-CE does not. And how might that affect the nihil obstat? 36:33 – Why do people think Catholics worship Mary? 43:25 – Is there any truth to the claim that ancient Jews thought there were two powers in heaven? They cite Genesis referring to “us.” 51:00 – How do I answer when people say that Jesus didn’t judge, especially in regard to immoral behavior?

“What makes music sacred?” This question opens a discussion on the role of music in worship, touching on the significance of chant sheets for altar servers at the Traditional Latin Mass and the relationship between sacred music and faith. Additional topics include recommendations for finding chant resources and the belief that sacred music must stem from a genuine faith. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – What makes music sacred? 30:15 – I altar serve at the TLM and have a hard time chant sheets. Where do you recommend I find them? 36:35 – Would you agree that sacred music has to be a product of faith?

“Why only the Eucharist?” addresses the Church’s practice of offering the Eucharist without the precious blood, providing clarity for those exploring Catholicism. The discussion also touches on why God allows conception outside of marriage and the implications of mortal sin on salvation, offering a range of perspectives on these important topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:20 – I was raised southern baptist and looking into Catholicism. Why does the Church only give the people only the eucharist but not the precious blood? 20:10 – I’m a fallen-away-Catholic. Why does God allow people to be conceived outside of marriage? 28:40 – If a Catholic commits a mortal sin and dies instantly, can they go to heaven. What are your thoughts on why?

“Why did God choose the Jews?” This question opens a discussion on divine selection and purpose, while also addressing intriguing topics such as the nature of our eternal souls and the implications of finding Masonic symbols in a Catholic cemetery. Additionally, the conversation touches on the value of remaining Catholic amidst insights from Orthodoxy and the role of reproduction in Catholic natural law. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:00 – If our souls are eternal, were our souls in a waiting tank waiting for us to be born? 11:25 – Why did God choose the Jews out of all people and places in the world? 21:18 – I recently found a gravestone at a Catholic cemetery with the logo on the freemasons. I have been communicating with the people in charge and they refused to do anything about it because it’s considered private property. I don’t know what to do because I was looking into a plot there myself. What should my next step be? 28:32 – I feel like I’m getting more insights from Orthodoxy. Why should I remain Catholic? 35:35 – Someone argued that successful reproduction is the highest intrinsic good because it is humanity’s natural purpose. What does Catholic natural law think about this?

“How do I respond to anti-Catholic claims?” This question opens a discussion on the necessity of physical church participation, addressing concerns raised by non-Catholic family members. Additional topics include the next steps for a young believer not ready for OCIA, and the qualifications for being in a state of grace, providing a well-rounded exploration of faith and doctrine. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:35 – My mom is not Catholic and said the Church is merely spiritual so being a part of a physical church is not needed. How do I respond to this? 15:32 – I’m 17 and have come to believe in the Catholic faith. I’m not in a position to join OCIA right now. What is my next step? 29:00 – Who qualifies us as being in the state of Grace? Who decides that? 40:50 – Why did God choose Jacob over Esau? 49:00 – Is the Mass a perpetual sacrifice? I see 2 teachings on this in the Church that contradict. When did the wrong teaching creep into the Church?

“What do you tell someone who says my faith is faltering?” This question opens a discussion on the importance of prayer and support during challenging times. Additional topics include how to help a family member who has left the Catholic faith, advice for someone drifting away from their practice, and addressing concerns about the Bible’s portrayal of women. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:37 – What do you tell someone who says my faith is faltering? 15:42 – Someone in my family lost their Catholic faith and went to a non-denominational church. What can I do to help bring them back? 19:13 – I recommend people keep praying even though they might not feel like it. 23:45 – I’ve drifted away from practicing my faith. How did you come back? Do you have any advice for me? 31:20 – My 16 year old daughter is leaving the faith because she sees the Bible as not respecting women. 43:45 – I’m starting to explore Catholicism, but I feel like I’m getting stuck on the intellectual aspect. How do I make room for the faith side of things? 48:58 – What would you say to someone sympathetic to the SSPX in their current situation?

“Why do we lose people raised pro-life to the pro-choice side?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of belief and autonomy in the abortion debate. Other topics include the argument that bodily autonomy supersedes the right to life and the moral implications of abortion in cases of rape or incest. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:25 – Why do we lose people raised pro-life to the prochoice side? 11:10 – I think that bodily autonomy supersedes the right to life. 17:38 – I am pro-choice because we should be able to allow women to abort in the case of rape or incest. 29:15 – Obviously you think abortion is murder. Do you think women who have had abortions should be charged with the same crimes as murderers? 44:25 – This issue is what drove me away from the Catholic faith. Until the zygote is viable as a human being, it is not a human being.

Who was Venerable Fulton Sheen, and why does his life continue to inspire Catholics around the world? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Msgr. Jason Gray explores the remarkable life and legacy of one of America’s most influential Catholic evangelists. Discover how Sheen became a radio and television pioneer, earned the respect of Protestant audiences, championed the missions, and approached politics through the lens of the Gospel. The conversation also explains the Church’s beatification process, the meaning of titles like Servant of God, Venerable, and Blessed, how miracles are investigated, and the evidence behind the miracle attributed to Sheen’s intercession. Finally, the episode reflects on what Sheen’s beatification means for the Church in America and where listeners can continue learning about his life and teachings. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:25 – Who was Fulton Sheen?  04:15 – How did Sheen become a radio and tv star?  09:30 – How did Sheen’s protestant audience view and think of him?  13:20 – The beautification process for Sheen  15:27 – Sheen and the Missions  17:25 – Sheen’s view of politics  21:50 – What would Sheen think of Catholic media today?  24:58 – How did Sheen get into media?  31:57 – What was Sheen’s process of creating episodes of “Life is Worth Living.”  33:49 – How does the Pope figure out who can be beautified?  36:50 – What is the difference between Servant of God, venerable, and Blessed  37:50 – How decide if something is a miracle or not?  43:40 – What was the particular miracle performed by Sheen and what is the evidence for it?  49:50 – What does Sheen’s beautification mean to the United States and the world?  52:25 – Where can I go to know more about Fulton Sheen? 

This Flannel Panel was recorded during the Catholic Answers Cruise on the Rhine River earlier this year.

What is the Catholic sense of America, and how should Catholics understand the nation’s history, heritage, and future? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, the conversation explores American identity through a Catholic lens, including the experience of encountering American heritage for the first time, whether God is finished with America, and how Catholics should evaluate classical liberalism. The episode also reflects on the American perspective of the world and what faith can contribute to a more truthful and hopeful vision of the country. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – The Catholic Sense of America.  11:00 – Experiencing American heritage for the first time.  20:38 – Is God finished with America?  29:00 – Classical liberalism is a good  47:55 – American perspective of the world 

How has America done after 250 years, and what role has Christianity—especially Catholicism—played in shaping the nation’s ideals? In this special episode of Catholic Answers Live, Dr. Chad Pecknold reflects on the 250th anniversary of the United States, examining the country’s founding principles through a Catholic lens. The discussion explores whether July 4 is truly America’s birthday, how Catholic thought influenced the concept of inalienable rights, and whether America could reach its fullest potential by embracing the Catholic faith. The episode concludes with an intriguing look at the theory that the Cold War helped preserve American unity and what that might mean for the nation’s future. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – How are we doing as a country after 250 years?  14:50 – Is the 4th of July the actual birth date of the U.S.?  23:00 – How has Catholicism influenced the idea of inalienable rights?  30:00 – Does America becoming a Catholic country mean she has reached her fullest potential?  47:50 – The theory that the Cold War actually kept America together. 

“How do you make a good confession?” This question opens a discussion on the essential elements of confession and the role of grace in overcoming sin. Additionally, the conversation addresses the challenges faced by Protestants regarding sin and the struggles of Catholics dealing with habitual sin, providing a comprehensive view of these important topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 21:20 – How do you make a good confession? 29:50 – If you’re Catholic you have confession but where does that leave protestants who struggle with sin? What happens with Catholics who can’t get over habitual sin?

“Why be courteous if Jesus wasn’t?” This question opens a discussion on the importance of courtesy in faith and dialogue, addressing how to approach sensitive topics, such as when a child chooses a different faith. Other questions include whether Jesus ever invited rather than commanded and the appropriateness of lending a rosary to someone of a different faith at a vigil. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:30 – Why do we always have to be courteous when Jesus wasn’t always courteous? 37:00 – My son was raised Catholic and now wants to become Muslim. How do I approach him with courtesy? 46:43 – Did Jesus ever invite someone to do something instead of commanding them? 50:42 – I’m attending a vigil. Would It be a courtesy to lend a rosary to a jewish woman for the vigil?

“Are guardian angels real?” This question opens a discussion on their biblical mentions and the belief that every person, including non-Christians, may have one. Other topics include the fate of a guardian angel after their charge dies, the nature of angels and time, and the appropriateness of praying to saints or angels. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:15 – So on the topic of angels who can actually help us — are guardian angels real? Are they ever mentioned in the Bible? 07:50 – Does every single person have a guardian angel? Or only the baptized, or only children, or only the holy? 10:55 – What about non-Christians — an atheist, a Hindu, someone who’s never heard the name of Christ? Do they have a guardian angel too? 13:15 – When the person they’re guarding dies, what happens to a guardian angel? Do they get reassigned — ‘recycled,’ so to speak — onto a new baby? 17:50 – Why do you think angels haven’t fallen again? 24:15 – Do angels experience time as in having a before, now and later? 32:25 – I know angels have gender. Does the gender of our guardian angels correspond to our gender? 35:48 – When God told Moses to build the ark with Seraphim on it, how did Moses know what a Seraphim looked like? 41:19 – What is appropriate or not appropriate when praying to saints or angels? Are we asking them to actually do something for us, or just asking them to pass on our request to God? 45:00 – Can we name our guardian angels? Plenty of well-meaning Catholics do exactly that. 50:01 – If everything you’ve said is true — that every one of us is surrounded, right now, by powerful, personal, tireless servants of God who love us and want to get us safely home — how should knowing the angels are real change the way a Catholic prays, faces temptation, and meets death?

“Are angels real?” This question opens a discussion about their nature and purpose, addressing whether they are merely symbolic representations of God’s presence. The conversation also touches on the relevance of angels in our lives today and explores the distinction between angels and humans, including the popular belief that deceased loved ones become angels. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:35 – Let’s start at the bottom of the ladder. Are angels real, or are they symbolic ways of talking about God’s presence? 06:10 – So okay — if angels are real, can we just ignore them and get on with our lives? If they don’t do much nowadays, why should I care? 11:35 – Let’s define our terms cleanly. What exactly is an angel — and how much of what we believe comes from Scripture, versus theological speculation? 14:55 – Here’s one everyone has heard at a funeral: that grandma is an angel now, watching over us — that we get our wings when we die. Do human beings become angels when they die? 19:00 – Have angels always existed alongside God, or were they created like everything else? 23:00 – If angels are bodiless spirits, then how do we get all these accounts of angels appearing, speaking, even sharing a meal? How does a spirit with no body show up and get 29:25 – Roughly how many angels are there? Are we talking about a handful of major players, or something vaster — are there more angels or more humans? 34:45 – Most people have heard there are nine choirs of angels — seraphim, cherubim, archangels, and so on. Where does that come from, and what are these nine choirs of angels? 49:20 – We’ve talked a lot about praying to saints on this show — but why should we specifically pray to angels? Isn’t that more dangerous? Let’s steelman it. Twice in Revelation, John falls down to worship an angel, and both times the angel stops him cold and says, ‘Worship God.’ Paul warns the Colossians against the worship of angels. In light of all that, why would we ever pray to an angel? 53:10 – How do we even know angels can hear us?

“Are Christians just Protestants?” This question opens a discussion on the diverse identities within Christianity, addressing misconceptions about faith. The conversation also touches on whether Jesus had blood-relative brothers and the Catholic understanding of Mary’s perpetual virginity, alongside the differences between Catholic and Orthodox beliefs regarding the Immaculate Conception. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:15 – Are people who call themselves Christian just protestants? 05:35 – My Protestant friend said Jesus had blood-relative brothers. I said if that were true, Jesus would not have entrusted Mary to John’s care at the foot of the cross. Was that a good defense? 16:10 – I’m protestant. The bible says Jesus had brothers so how do Catholics come to the conclusion that Mary was a virgin all her life? 35:00 – I’m Eastern Orthodox. What is the Catholic argument for the Immaculate conception rather than the Orthodox believe in the Dispassionate Conception, and the Catholic belief in original sin versus the Orthodox idea of ancestral sin. 51:43 – What covenant did Jesus fulfill?

“Why does it matter if Mary is sinless?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of Marian doctrines in Catholic faith. The conversation also touches on early church beliefs regarding Mary’s perpetual virginity, responses to biblical passages that challenge her sinlessness, and how to cultivate a personal relationship with Mary and the saints. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:05 – Why does it matter for a catholic to believe Mary is sinless 13:05 – Did the early church believe in the perpetual virginity of Mary or is that a doctrine that developed over time. 17:07 – My Protestant friend cites Luke 2:48 (where Mary asks Jesus how he could do that to them at the finding in the Temple) to show she is not sinless. 23:40 – How can I have a more personal relationship with Mary, or other saints? Is that even possible in the same way it is with Jesus? 32:55 – My evangelical friends object to papal statements that say people who deny certain Marian doctrines are outside the faith. They say this is adding additional criteria for salvation. How do I respond? 42:50 – In John 20 Christ tells Mary Magdalen not to touch him because he hasn’t risen to his Father yet. But later he tells Thomas to touch him. Why the different answers? 46:30 – I’m about to start OCIA. I want to lean more into a relationship with Mary. But I grew up in an Evangelical background, and it feels strange. I keep on thinking about how I need to make sure I’ve giving more reverence to Jesus. 52:38 – How is it that Jesus and Mary could experience the effects of original sin when they didn’t have original sin?

“Can you explain the Assumption?” This question opens a discussion on the Marian dogmas, addressing common struggles with understanding them. The episode also touches on discerning the differences between Orthodox and Catholic beliefs regarding Peter’s role, as well as the Catholic teaching on the death penalty and its evolution under Pope Francis. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:25 – I have been looking into the Catholic Faith for a while. I have struggled with the Marian dogmas, especially the Assumption. 17:34 – How do you discern whether or not the Orthodox or Catholics are correct, specifically whether or not Peter is first among equals or infallible? 29:55 – Why is it that Catholics say you can’t spread ashes, but when it comes to saints you divide up their body parts? 35:37 – Can you explain the Catholic teaching on the death penalty? Did it change with Pope Francis? 41:35 – I am sympathetic to Catholic traditions and have tried to go through OCIA. But my husband has decided that our family is not going to be Catholic. I want to be a respectful spouse. 50:58 – I’m trying to love my wife back into the faith. She was raised Catholic but stopped practicing. She goes to a Protestant church where the sermons are peppered with anti-Catholic remarks. I think this creates a major barrier for a lot of people to become Catholic.

“What obstacles keep us from healthy relationships?” This question opens a discussion on the challenges individuals face in becoming marriage-ready, alongside insights on how media representations can influence perceptions of relationships. Other topics include the moral considerations of premarital intimacy for older couples and the implications of annulment on family planning. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:40 – What obstacles keep people from being marriage ready? 31:38 – I’ve noticed in a lot of media relationships are not portrayed in a healthy way. What would be good to see in stories and shows to model healthy relationships? 36:55 – My friend is a widower and is now dating a widow. He asked if it is a sin to have premarital sex in old age and in their circumstance? 49:21 – I’ve been married for 8 years and am going through the annulment process for my previous marriage. Should we wait until that annulment is complete before we try to conceive a child?

“What makes Isaiah’s prophecies unique?” Isaiah’s writings from the 700s B.C. present some of the first clear and explicit predictions of the Messiah, including titles like “Wonderful Counselor” and “Prince of Peace.” Additionally, the discussion touches on how Daniel 7 influenced Jewish expectations of the Messiah and addresses objections regarding Jesus’ fulfillment of these prophecies. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 00:30 – You point to Isaiah, writing in the 700s B.C., as providing the first clear and explicit prophecies of the Messiah: “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” What makes these passages different from what came before? 20:15 – Some Jews read Daniel 7 and concluded that the Messiah would be a heavenly “Son of Man,” hidden with God before creation. That later became Jesus’ favorite title for himself. What would that title have communicated to his original audience? 34:00 – One major Jewish objection is that Jesus did not establish universal peace, restore the Davidic throne in Jerusalem, or complete everything associated with the messianic age. How can Christians say he fulfilled the prophecies? 42:45 – A skeptic might respond that Jesus intentionally acted out certain prophecies or that the Gospel writers shaped their narratives to make him appear to fulfill them. How much of the evidence can those explanations account for?

“Can historical evidence prove Jesus as Messiah?” This question opens a discussion on the differing claims of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam regarding Jesus. The conversation also touches on the expectations of the Messiah in Judaism at the time of Christ and the significance of the Davidic covenant in shaping messianic hope. Additionally, the role of Isaiah’s prophecies in this context is examined. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – Jimmy, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam all make different claims about Jesus. Christians say he is the divine Messiah. Judaism does not accept him as the Messiah. Islam calls him the Messiah but denies central Christian beliefs about him. Can historical and biblical evidence help us determine which view is correct? 06:20 – In the introduction, you lay out the book’s argument in four steps . . . Give us the thirty-thousand-foot view of that case. 07:20 – Before we examine Jesus, what did Judaism at the time of Christ actually expect the Messiah to be and accomplish? 19:30 – Everything in the messianic hope seems to hinge on King David and the promise God made him in 2 Samuel 7—that his throne would be established forever. Tell us about the Davidic covenant and why it matters so much. 36:15 – Then came the Babylonian exile, and suddenly there was no son of David on the throne. How did the Jewish people get from that apparently failed promise to the expectation of a future Messiah? 49:25 – You point to Isaiah, writing in the 700s B.C., as providing the first clear and explicit prophecies of the Messiah: “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” What makes these passages different from what came before?

“Do miracles still happen today?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of miracles in the context of Lourdes and Catholicism. Other topics include the thorough investigations the Church conducts on reported miracles and the significance of the miraculous events at Lourdes, as well as the awareness of our loved ones in heaven regarding our lives. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:00 – Do Miracles Still happen today? 39:48 – I’m a new Catholic and have a Pentecostal background like Tim. It has been very reassuring to me that the Catholic Church does do so much investigation of these miracles. 42:29 – I’m considering Catholicism. But the Lourdes thing confuses me. Lourdes has millions of visitors per year. Why is 72 out of millions significant? 47:35 – Are our loved ones in heaven aware of the details in our lives?

“How much can a priest change in the Mass?” This question opens a discussion on the boundaries of liturgical modifications, alongside inquiries about the sacrilege of receiving communion in the hand, the optional nature of certain prayers during the Communion rite, and the significance of the priest’s gestures before the Gospel reading. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:40 – How much is the priest allowed to change things in the mass? 10:40 – How do we answer sedevacantist who say that prior popes made it a sacrilege to receive communion in the hand? 13:00 – In the Communion rite, in the preparation, sometimes there is a prayer the priest says and sometimes there is not — is it optional? 21:35 – i finally have made the decision to come to the Catholic church. Getting to talk to Tom last week about hyperdulia really helped. I was hoping for a book suggestion for Catholic basics. 23:20 – At what point during the Mass does the bread and wine become Jesus? 31:05 – what is the difference between infallibility & indefectability? The English translation for indefectability seems to indicate the Church is without error, but how if Clergy are sinners? 33:00 – When the priest is about to read the gospel, he makes the sign of the cross on his forehead, lips, and heart. What is the significance of that? Are there words that accompany that? 34:38 – I’m in the Reformed tradition. I was taught that Catholic Mass was like sacrificing Jesus over and over again, but I’ve never actually asked a Catholic their view of that. What is the Catholic view of that? 46:54 – If you go to a SSPX Mass after the upcoming illicit consecrations is it a mortal sin? 50:55 – What should an extraordinary minister of holy communion do when people come up with hands crossed for a blessing?

“Is Catholicism a false church?” This question opens a discussion on the validity of Catholicism compared to Eastern Orthodoxy, particularly regarding changes in liturgy and fasting rules. The conversation also addresses whether first-century Christians prayed to saints and explores what Catholics believe about salvation in contrast to the “once saved, always saved” perspective. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:35 – Considering Catholicism or Eastern Orthodoxy. If the majority of bishops left the RCC, is that a sign they are a false church? Also, if Catholics changed liturgy/fasting rules while EO have been consistent, is that a sign they are a false church? 20:30 – How to Respond to the claim. Did first-century Christians pray to the saints? My protestant friend says it started in the third century. 31:05 – What do Catholics believe they have to do to be saved, and how do I respond to the once saved always saved belief? What are simple verses to refute that? 42:22 – Agnostic Brother Asked thinks Christianity is too Anthropocentric. He has a hard time believing that the universe was made for human beings primarily. 47:20 – Best Friend and brother want to convert to EO because of the filioque. How can I respond?

“Why Do Catholics Believe Peter is the Rock? Is Jesus the Rock?” This question opens a discussion on the interpretation of Matthew and the role of popes. Other topics include addressing misconceptions about Jesus’s sacrifice and the necessity of works for salvation, as well as arguments for the papacy and responses to claims about Catholic traditions resembling those of the Pharisees. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:30 – Catholics say Peter is the Rock in Matthew. But certain popes say Jesus is the rock? 10:35 – My friend says that Catholics Don’t Believe Jesus’s Sacrifice was Perfect. And that Catholics must do extra things to be saved. How do I respond? 17:45 – Not Catholic Cause no arguments for the Papacy are convincing. He believes in contingency argument to believe in God. But he needs a good argument like that for the papacy. 37:48 – If the Tree gave Adam and eve the knowledge of good and evil. How would they even know eating the apple was bad? 46:10 – How can I respond to the claim that Catholics are modern Pharisees? How are Catholic traditions any different than what the Pharisees did?

“Is God good if a boy feels like a girl?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of identity and divine creation. Other topics include navigating friendships after expressing disagreement with same-sex marriage, the Church’s training for priests to support same-sex attracted individuals, and the impact of hormones on mental health. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 10:00 – Is a boy who says he “feels like a girl” or vice-versa basically saying God is not good at creating? 18:33 – I had a friend who I learned who was going to marry another man. I told him I couldn’t go to the wedding. Because of this I learned a bunch of my friends are gay and they are now mad at me. How can I make amends with them? 33:15 – What kind of training is the Church giving priests to minister to same-sex attracted people? When I was in high school (60+ years ago) the priest wouldn’t even talk to me. 36:50 – Does the use of hormones in contraception and in our food have an effect on mental health? 48:25 – I’m all about inclusion and acceptance. What has helped me is that when I notice the haters, I ask them “imagine if a woman’s brain went into your body and your brain went into her body. And then the doctor asks you what gender are you.” That makes people think.

“Where are sacraments in the Bible?” This question opens a discussion on the biblical foundations of Catholicism, including the presence of sacraments. Other topics include the meaning behind the phrase “take it to the foot of the cross,” the role of Cardinals in Scripture, and how logic can support the papacy. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:35 – If Catholicism is in the Bible, where do you see the sacraments in the bible? 10:15 – I hear a lot of Protestants use say “take it to the foot of the cross and lay it down.” What exactly does that mean and does it square with Catholicism? 12:45 – I’m a recent convert. I have not been successful in convincing my friends and family about the Catholic Church. How do I convince them that it matters to belong to the Catholic Church as opposed to another church. 19:40 – Where do we find Cardinals in the Bible? 31:30 – Can we prove Catholicism and the papacy just by using logic and reason? How can people condemn the Church with the bible if the Church canonized the bible? 40:25 – Sin clouds our mind and makes it harder for us to express our true free will. Mary was protected from sin so always had the clearest use of her free will. If God desired all of us to go to Heaven, why didn’t he give us the same grace he gave to Mary? 44:53 – Former Catholic, looking into Orthodoxy… What is some proof for the papacy?

“Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation?” This question opens a discussion on the essential role of baptism in the Catholic faith, addressing concerns such as whether a Catholic father can baptize his children without the mother’s consent and what God is doing during the baptismal rite. Other topics include the Church’s acceptance of baptisms from some Protestant denominations and the differences between sprinkling and immersion. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:29 – Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation? 06:40 – Can a father who is Catholic get his children baptized without the consent of the mother? 08:05 – Since baptism is not just a symbol, what exactly is God doing at baptism? 15:20 – Why does the Church accept baptisms in some protestant churches 18:10 – What is the Catholic view on sprinkling vs immersion, and also on the formula (in Jesus’ name vs the trinitarian formula)? 41:30 – I grew up Catholic and have been Catholic my whole life, but I don’t have any proof that I am baptized. Should I get baptized? I’m kind of worried that maybe I was never baptized. 47:20 – Was John the Baptist’s baptism from God or from man? 52:00 – My granddaughter is being raised in a non-denom church. They are going to let her choose to be baptized when she turns seven. Should I be worried about the state of her soul before she is baptized?

“Why are we guilty of the sin of Adam and Eve?” This question opens a discussion on original sin and its implications for humanity. The episode also addresses the introduction of the “Once Saved Always Saved” concept, clarifies the authority of papal documents regarding salvation, and explores the challenges faced by a divorced Catholic seeking to return to the faith. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:25 – Why Are We Guilty of the Sin of Adam and Eve? 12:13 – How did the idea of Once Saved Always Saved get introduced into the world? 19:02 – Regarding Papal documents that say shedding blood for Christ won’t get you into heaven unless one submits to the pontiff. I’ve heard it argued that protestants are, loosely, under his authority but that feels more like a technicality rather than a development of doctrine. Can you help clarify? 29:05 – How is a fallen away Catholic who is divorced but wants to begin practicing the faith again supposed to live? 34:45 – Revelation 19:9 talks about the true things of God. Does that imply there are also bad things of God? 41:30 – I’m a Baptist. How is dogma viewed in Catholicism? Why are they required for salvation and why not treat them like some Marian apparitions where the Church allows the belief but doesn’t require it?

“How do I defend the Trinity?” This question leads to a discussion on the eternal subordination of the Son and how to address claims of heresy. Additionally, the episode touches on where the Church Fathers sourced their Hebrew scriptures, the need for ecclesiastical permission in fictional scenarios, and the Catholic perspective on lying. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:50 – Where did the Church Fathers get their copies of the Hebrew scriptures? 12:00 – How do I best defend the Trinity against someone who calls it heresy specifically in regards to eternal subordination of the son? 21:00 – Would the ghostbusters need ecclesiastical permission to do what they did in the movies? 28:58 – Is it ever ok to lie from the Catholic perspective? 35:40 – When did it become a custom for religious people to change their names? 42:15 – Does Romans 4 (particularly Romans 4:5) conflict with Catholicism’s doctrines faith, works, and a love? 52:45 – What is the church’s position on simulation theory?

“What did Jesus mean by losing your life?” This question opens a discussion on the profound implications of self-sacrifice in faith. The episode also addresses interpretations of the commandment regarding other gods, the Vatican’s stance on supernatural phenomena, and the availability of grace for salvation, showcasing a rich variety of theological insights. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:55 – What did Jesus mean when he said, “if you lose your life, you will find it” in Mt 16:25? 13:30 – Can we interpret having “no other gods before me” as not having any angels and saints before God’s presence? 24:20 – Do the new norms of the Vatican exploring supernatural phenomena abrogate the belief in Medjugorje? 32:10 – Does Catholic teaching allow us to tell anyone at any time that grace is sufficient for salvation as always available or is it more limited to certain times? 43:15 – What are your thoughts on the three days of darkness? 47:42 – Is the idea that life begins as conception an idea based on Greek philosophy and not an original Christian principle?

“What was the best argument against Catholicism?” This question leads to a discussion on the challenges faced by Catholics, including how to reconcile difficult moments in Church history, such as the Inquisition, and the role of priests in absolution. Additionally, the conversation touches on maintaining faith during tough times, providing a well-rounded exploration of these important topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 17:10 – What did you think was the best argument against Catholicism when you were protestant? 22:45 – How do we justify bad things in Church history like the inquisition and bad things that popes did? 33:55 – Why can’t priests absolve themselves? 36:25 – In light of Mark 11:24, how can I maintain faith when things are hard?

“How should Catholics respond to aliens?” This intriguing question opens a discussion on faith and the unknown, while also touching on the significance of the Eucharist as both a meal and a sacrifice. Other topics include the historical basis for apostolic succession and the distinction between hyperdulia and a worship of Mary, showcasing a diverse range of theological inquiries. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:40 – If you found yourself face-to-face with what appeared to be an intelligent being from another planet, how should you respond as a Catholic? 13:38 – Why is the Eucharist not only a meal but also a sacrifice? 20:30 – I’m LDS but am starting to question the Great Apostacy. There doesn’t seem to be a strong historical basis for it. What is the historical evidence for the Catholic claim of apostolic succession? 33:35 – My friend is an evangelical Protestant but he won’t consider Catholicism unless we give him answers about eschatology. He is a dispensationalist. 41:55 – I don’t understand this distinction between hyperdulia and worship of Mary. 46:32 – I saw this video “New Evidence for Early Popes” that talked about how in the early church history would be dated according to who was pope at the time. Is this a good argument for the papacy? 52:05 – I grew up in the Southern Baptist church believing that baptism is just a symbol. I’m starting OCIA soon. It sounds like the Catholic Church is going to accept my baptism as valid. This doesn’t make sense to me because I believed it was just a symbol.

“Why dialogue with non-Christians?” This question opens a discussion on the importance of engaging with those outside the faith, including how to approach Mormons regarding the Trinity despite their unique beliefs. Additional topics include insights on Daniel 2 and its implications for apostasy, as well as the complexities of Mormon theology concerning Jesus on other planets. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:20 – Why should we dialogue with people who are not Christians as we see them? 09:40 – How do you talk to Mormons about the Trinity if they reject the philosophy of the apostolic fathers or anything outside the bible? 23:25 – What are your thoughts on Daniel 2 and how it can prove or disprove the apostasy? 46:50 – I cant get mormons to answer if there is a Jesus on every planet. Do you know how this works into their understanding and theology?

“What are three things Mormons get wrong?” This episode addresses key misconceptions about Mormon beliefs, including insights on theosis and how it differs from Catholic teachings. Additional questions cover thoughts on the musical “The Book of Mormon,” advice for visiting a Mormon church, and how to respond to common Mormon perspectives on Jesus. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:15 – What are Three Things Mormons Get Wrong? 15:45 – Regarding the musical, The Book of Mormon” What are your thoughts on a musical mocking Mormonism? 20:38 – I’m Catholic and a former Mormon. I’m confused about theosis. Where do the beliefs of Mormonism and Catholicism on this topic differ? 35:02 – I’m visiting a Mormon church with a Mormon friend. What should I be prepared with before I go? 45:40 – If the Christian Church was reestablished with the Mormons within the last couple of hundred years, what would have happened with the souls of the Christians during that gap? 49:20 – How do I answer the response from a mormon when they say, we disagree but we all love Jesus so lets just do that?

“How can I explain Purgatory and the Eucharist to my son?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of suffering in Purgatory and the significance of the Eucharist, while also addressing concerns about interpretations of Scripture, such as the differing translations of 1 Timothy 3:15 and the implications of miracles related to the Eucharist. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:18 – How can I explain to my 18-year-old son Purgatory and why there is suffering there? 10:10 – I think it to be expected that the crowd in John 6 wouldn’t take Jesus literally about the Eucharist, because they would have thought of that as cannibalism. 22:40 – Can you explain why 1 Tim 3:15 is translated differently? The RSV says the Church is pillar and bulwark, and the NIV says pillar and foundation. 28:55 – I’m Christian. Does the Church know what the most important wedding is mentioned in Rev. 19:9? 33:55 – In the miracles of the eucharist, science comes back with results of a specific part of the heart of a living man. How do we clarify this with your understanding of the real presence of the Eucharist? 43:07 – I’m a returning Catholic and bringing my protestant husband along. Is there a “basics” book you recommend because it’s overwhelming for him? 46:40 – I’m Protestant because of Act 2:42-47. I think the protestant vision of it is closer to that then modern-day Catholicism. 50:20 – Is part of the problem for Catholics evangelizing all the requisites to enter the Church?

“Can we pray for lost babies?” This question opens a heartfelt discussion about the Church’s teachings on salvation and the hope for lost infants. Additionally, the episode addresses the historical invocation of saints, the apparent contradictions in salvation teachings from different Church councils, and the complexities of praying to saints in light of biblical texts. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:15 – We don’t have any indication that Christians invoked the saints until the fourth century. That’s too late for it to be part of the apostolic faith. 13:28 – My husband and I just lost a baby through miscarriage. We understand the Church has hope for lost babies’ salvation. But is there anything in Church teaching that would prohibit us from praying for our child’s soul? 18:45 – At the first Vatican Council they said outside of the Catholic Church there is no salvation. The Second Vatican Council said that salvation could be found in Protestant liturgy. Isn’t that a contradiction? 29:28 – I’m former New Age, and when I became Protestant I realized a lot of those practices were not right. I’m wondering how praying to the saints is okay, given that the Bible says not to speak to the dead. 41:55 – In the finding in the temple when Jesus says did you not know I would be in my Father’s house, is that a prefigurement the Eucharistic Jesus in the tabernacle? 51:17 – I consider myself Christian, but not Protestant or Catholic. When Jesus says if you don’t leave your father and mother you’re not worthy to call yourself his disciple, does that apply just to Catholics or to Christians as well?

“Why do Eastern Orthodox apologists reject doctrinal change?” This question opens a discussion on the objections many Eastern Orthodox apologists have regarding doctrinal development. The conversation also touches on the appeal of Orthodoxy’s power structure, strategies for guiding friends toward Catholicism, and the complexities surrounding the filioque controversy. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:20 – Why Do Many Eastern Orthodox Apologists Object to Doctrinal Development? 18:28 – We are Catholic but are considering Orthodoxy. One argument is that in Orthodoxy there is less emphasis on power structure so less chance of corruption. 23:40 – My non-denom friends are looking into Orthodoxy. How can I steer them towards Catholicism instead of Orthodoxy? 37:15 – There are two Patriarchs of Jerusalem, the Greek Orthodox and the Latin. The Latin one goes back to the Crusades, and the Greek Orthodox one goes back to the New Testament. I think it was schismatic act for the Latins to set up a separate one. 50:44 – The Eastern Orthodox argument against the filioque makes it seem like the Father and the Son have abilities that the holy spirit doesn’t have, which would seem to put him in a subservient position. Would you agree with that?

“Why is the Apostolic Age not a well-known part of Church history?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of early Church writings, including the role of the Church Fathers and the authenticity of the Apostolic Fathers’ texts. Other topics include the importance of listening to the Church Fathers and the historical context of early Christian martyrdom. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:45 – “Why is the Apostolic Age not a well known part of Church history? 20:00 – Why listen to the Church Fathers? 23:00 – How do we know the writings of the Apostolic Fathers are real? 38:00 – What is the spelling of the names of the writings you mention? 43:40 – Did Paul write things down in the Bible that Jesus didn’t tell him? 45:55 – Has Steve been on an archaeological dig? If so, what did he see? 47:15 – What did these Apostolic Fathers believe? 52:03 – How did it go from the apostolic fathers being martyred to Catholics killing Protestants at the Reformation?

“Why do some priests teach differently?” This question opens a discussion on the diversity of teachings within the Church, addressing concerns about consistency in doctrine. Other topics include the Church’s stance on charging for weddings and the significance of the Eucharist as a propitiatory sacrifice, along with the standards Catholics are held to regarding mortal sin. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:19 – I don’t understand why different priests have different teachings — if it’s one Church shouldn’t there be one teaching? Also I don’t understand why the Church charges for weddings — shouldn’t it be free? 17:32 – How do we know that the Early Church Fathers’ writings are correct? 24:25 – How is the Eucharist truly propitiatory as stated in CCC 1367? 48:15 – Why are Catholics held to a different standard? For example, for us it is a mortal sin if we miss Mass on a holy day.

“Which Church Did Jesus Start?” This question opens a discussion on the distinctions between Catholic and Orthodox beliefs, including what defines the Catholic Church as the one established by Christ. Additional topics include addressing the term “Roman” Catholic Church, the nature of the Eucharist, and the reasons behind the Orthodox separation from Catholicism. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – Which Church Did Jesus Start 17:09 – What makes the Catholic Church the one that Jesus started and not the Syrians, the Orthodox, or the Coptics? 22:26 – How do you go about correcting Protestants who use the term “Roman” Catholic Church in a pejorative sense? 36:40 – When the bread and wine is turned in to Jesus’ body and blood, why does it still taste like bread and wine? 42:56 – Why is there no list of infallible Church teachings? 46:50 – Why did the Orthodox pull away from the Catholic Church? 51:30 – I have some SDA friends who believe in the long sleep instead of heaven or purgatory. What is the best refutation of the long sleep?

“Can I become Catholic without believing all dogmas?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of faith and belief, addressing concerns about papal infallibility and the necessity of dogmas for conversion. Other topics include the Catholic view of predestination and the Church’s role in compiling the Bible, as well as challenges posed by Protestant interpretations of scripture. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:00 – I’m in the episcopal church and am curious about Catholicism. I have some reservations about papal infallibility. I’m wondering if I’d be able to become Catholic without holding to some dogmas. 17:30 – What is the Catholic view of predestination? Also, I know the Catholic Church put together the bible, but how did it do it? 30:00 – Protestants use 1 Cor 13:8 to say the age of miracles is over and it ended with the death of the last apostle. Some Protestant also say that this was the end of apostolic authority, specifically when it comes to forgiveness of sins via a priest. What are your thoughts on these? 40:25 – I’m not Catholic because the organization of Catholicism is openly homophobic and an official hate group. Also because of its crimes against humanity.

“Why do you reject the papacy?” This question opens a discussion on authority within the Church, touching on the necessity of a papal figure and the implications of such leadership. Other topics include the role of Mary and the Eucharist, as well as concerns about the treatment of statues and experiences with controlling religious groups. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:00 – Pope Leo on Nations 07:15 – The original precepts of Catholicism are fine by me, but I don’t agree with the “fine print.” For example, I agree with the idea of a need for authority and headship, but I don’t see the need for a papacy and all the things that go along with that. 20:57 – I don’t agree with the idea of Mary being protected from being able to commit sin. I also feel like the filioque rejects the Trinity. Also my problem with the Eucharist is how could it be him if he instituted it when he was still alive? 29:05 – I feel like Catholic treatment of statues is kind of like worshipping the golden calf. 40:19 – It doesn’t seem right for people to be bound by a particular opinion of the pope. That prevents people from thinking and coming up with an answer that makes sense. 47:32 – I got involved with this group and felt like I was being fed spiritually. They claimed to be baptist. But it got more and more controlling. Once they told me I am no longer myself and I was someone else. Once they laid me down and there was some kind of thing sucking out of my mouth and a electric feeling on my forehead. It got more controlling. They told me where to work. Have you ever heard of this? Is it a cult?

“What Church did Jesus found?” This question opens a discussion on the foundational beliefs of Christianity, touching on the Church’s teachings about Original Sin and the differing perspectives held by Jews and Muslims. Additionally, the conversation addresses the Orthodox view of apostolic succession and the implications of Jesus’ return for the Earth. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:09 – What Church did Jesus found? 12:14 – What does the Church teach about Original Sin, and why Jews and Muslims view it differently? 19:42 – The Orthodox believe that any validly consecrated bishop is the successor of Peter. And that Peter was called rock because he was the first to recognize the divinity of Christ. And Peter consecrated other bishops, so he cannot be the only foundation stone. 29:14 – What will happen to the Earth when Jesus returns? 32:07 – Is loving your neighbor and loving God more important than sacrifice. Because Jesus said we live by every word that comes from God, and he said love God and love your neighbor. So is that more important than the Eucharist? 35:20 – In the early Church is there more evidence for divine simplicity over the essence/energy distinction of the Eastern Orthodox? 41:35 – Who were the Apostolic Fathers? How many were there?

“How did you become a prophet?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of prophecy in the Bible, alongside topics such as the differences in prayer practices between Catholics and Protestants, and the historical context of the deuterocanon in the Protestant Bible. Other questions touch on the biblical understanding of marriage and the nuances of salvation from different theological perspectives. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:35 – How did you become an Old Testament Prophet? 08:35 – Can Catholics and Protestants pray together, and where do we see this in scripture? 15:40 – Who took the deuterocanon out of the Protestant Bible and when did they do it? 20:38 – I predicted something that happened. Does that mean I’m a prophet? 24:35 – I think it’s Judith that says Nebuchadnezzar is king of Syria, but the rest of the bible says he’s king of something else. So how can Judith be scripture if it contradicts the rest? 32:54 – I’ve heard that Protestants have more of a courtroom view of salvation, and for Catholics it’s more about Jesus reversing what Adam did. Is that accurate? 38:50 – What does the bible say about marriage? 42:18 – Jesus said we’d be accountable for our mistakes, and he also said he came for sinners. It seems like these contradict each other. Can you explain? 52:45 – Jesus says to be saved follow the 2 greatest commandments. But elsewhere he says you have to receive the Eucharist. So is it both?

“How Does Islam and Christianity Differ on Jesus?” This question opens a discussion on the distinct perspectives each faith holds about Christ. Additionally, the conversation touches on whether God could have forgiven humanity without the cross, the concept of Messianic Muslims, and the implications of the Koran’s teachings regarding Jesus and messengers. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:45 – How Does Islam and Christianity Differ on Jesus? 10:45 – If God could have forgiven humanity without the cross, what makes the cross a more fitting means of salvation than simply forgiving sinners? 21:00 – What do you think of the idea that Muhummad had the strength of 30 men? 29:02 – Are there Messianic Muslims — Muslims who believe in Jesus? 35:35 – It is in the Koran that Jesus said he was going to send a messenger. 41:35 – Does Islam teach that Christians must be destroyed? 45:15 – Isn’t it disingenuous to dismiss all of Islam culturally? It seems like people try to trash the whole religion when we could build bridges instead. 52:35 – How do you explain the Catechism’s teaching that Muslims and Christians worship the same God, when Islam is so different than Christianity? Also, early church fathers used the quick spread of the faith around the world as an argument for its truth. But Islam spread even more quickly. How would you respond to that?

“Should Sacrificial Love Be Exhausting?” Many believe that constant giving and never saying no is the essence of love, but this perspective can lead to burnout. The discussion also touches on balancing obligations to God and family, the moral implications of defending one’s family, and how these principles apply to single individuals. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:17 – Many Christians think constantly giving, never saying no, and exhausting themselves is a form of sacrificial love. Where does that idea go wrong? 14:57 – How I balance my obligations to God and to my family? 24:18 – Is there ever a time that a Catholic is morally obligated or allowed to defend one’s family by physical means? Or is it ever sinful? 33:24 – Many of your examples are for married people with families. How would the principles here be applied to a single person? 41:00 – I’m 18, and there is a girl I’d like to ask out. How do I deal with the fear of rejection? 45:52 – I think I’m having a trauma response to my family. My family and I are moving onto the same property as my parents. Our family farm is falling apart and I’m worried how it is going to affect relationships.

“Why are Esther’s chapters not sequential?” This question leads to a discussion about the structure of the Book of Esther, addressing why it begins with chapter 10 and revisits earlier events. Other topics include the meaning of Romans 5:7, the implications of modern technology as a new Tower of Babel, and advice for those new to reading scripture. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:47 – I’m reading the RSV of the Book of Esther. Why are the chapters not sequential? It starts with chapter 10 (or so) and then later goes back to chapter 1. 12:50 – What does Romans 5:7 mean? “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.” 20:26 – Could modern technology be a new Tower of Babel? 33:28 – What is the best scholarly work that refutes Bart Ehrman’s view that the gospels are not reliable? 42:05 – I am grew up, but I have not actually read much scripture before. I would like to start. What is the best way to start? I get bored easily, and I don’t want to start and then lose momentum. 50:20 – On the road to Emmaus, one of the disciples is named and the other is not. I’ve heard speculation that is because the other was his wife. What do you make of this speculation?

“Are any parts of the Bible taken from other cultures?” This question opens a discussion on the influences surrounding biblical texts, while also addressing intriguing topics such as the possibility of ensouled humans mating with un-ensouled humans and the role of Nicodemus in the burial of Jesus. Additionally, the dating of 2 Peter is examined, providing a rich exploration of scriptural context. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – Are any parts of the Bible taken from other cultures? 16:16 – In the beginning of humanity, could ensouled humans have mated with un-ensouled humans? If so, would it have been sinful for them to do so? 34:28 – When I was a kid I was told that Nicodemus helped take Jesus’ body off the cross. But it doesn’t mention him specifically in John 19:39. Is there any truth to this? 45:00 – When do you think 2 Peter was written? A lot of scholars place it after 70 AD and I am wondering if you would place it earlier.

“How do we deal with suffering?” This question opens a discussion on the Catholic perspective of suffering, contrasting it with Protestant views. The conversation also addresses practical advice for supporting a friend who has lost a loved one and offers insights on how to cope with suffering while experiencing it. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:34 – Protestant theology deals with suffering very differently. How do we deal with suffering? 14:50 – What are we supposed to deal with suffering while we are in it? 29:57 – My friend lost her husband recently. Do you have any advice on what I can say to her?

“What does active participation at Mass mean?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of engagement during the liturgy, including the practices of kneeling and standing at key moments. Other topics addressed include the meaning behind the priest’s prayer for “servants” during Mass and the implications of Eucharistic adoration as a spiritual weapon. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:20 – Eucharistic adoration is a neglected spiritual weapon. 11:08 – What does active participation at Mass mean? 15:53 – At the Agnus Dei is see a lot of people kneel and a lot of people stand. Which are we supposed to be doing? Also toward the end of Communion, when do we stop kneeling and start sitting — after the cleaning of the vessels, or when the tabernacle is closed? 23:06 – During the Mass the priest says “we pray for your servants” and then he pauses. Who are the servants referred to here? 29:23 – The Bible talks about a “mystery gospel” and a “secret doctrine”. I don’t have the chapter and verse but believe me it’s there. Do you have any insights into what these are? 36:05 – Is there ever a scenario where a non-Catholic who is aware of the Church can be saved? 42:40 – I kneel at the Agnus Dei because I think we should kneel when the tabernacle is open. The Bible says that we kneel before God. 45:45 – My non-Catholic friend comes to Mass with me sometimes. He wants to receive communion but I tell him he can’t, that he needs to approach with his arms crossed. But he receives communion anyway. Should I stop inviting him? Have I sinned by not being forceful enough? 51:09 – I saw on YouTube that when Jesus was a child he fell from a roof, and he turned mud into birds, and other miracles. Are these true?

“How can the Catholic Church be infallible?” This question addresses concerns about the Church’s historical positions, including its past endorsement of burning heretics. Other topics include the nature of worship as sacrifice and the confusion some feel about identifying as a Christian amidst various denominations. Additionally, there are discussions about the papacy and its perception within the context of modern issues. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:55 – My non-Catholic friend asks how can the Catholic Church be infallible when it has flip-flopped on issues. The issue he cites is the Church endorsement of burning heretics, and then later saying we shouldn’t. 14:45 – I’ve heard you say that worship is sacrifice. But my Protestant friend says they do sacrifice — sacrifice of praise. 24:25 – I’m not Catholic or Protestant or Orthodox because it is so confusing. So I just identify as a Christian. 42:25 – I’m considering Catholicism but I have some concerns. My SDA friend sent me a document saying the papacy was the beast of Revelation. Also I feel like the Catholic Church is not as welcoming to the LGBT community.

“Why Aren’t You Catholic?” addresses the reasons some individuals hesitate to embrace Catholicism, including concerns about unanswered prayers and the role of saints. The discussion also touches on the perception of praying to saints as idolatry and the scriptural basis for understanding prayer as worship. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:26 – I’m Not Catholic because after years of prayer, research, and personal conversations, God Has not allowed me to become Catholic 32:58 – I’m Not Catholic Because Prayer to Saints seems to be a type of Idolatry. I believe scripture makes it clear that prayer is a form of worship.

“How can we achieve perfection?” This question leads to a discussion on the steps we can take to avoid Purgatory, alongside insights on responding to Protestant challenges about Catholic doctrine. Other topics include the relationship between science and belief in God, the purpose of praying the Rosary, and the complexities of Church teachings on birth control. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – What can we do to reach a level of perfection where we won’t have to go to Purgatory? 13:45 – How do we respond to Protestants when they challenge our Catholic doctrine? 22:10 – Is there a good book that addresses the scientific basis for God? My intelligent 22 year old grandson says science prohibits him from believing in God. 30:19 – I’ll be starting OCIA soon. Why pray the Rosary when we can go directly to God? And when would I pray the Rosary? It seems like if I just pray the Rosary I’d be giving up the fruitful prayer routine I already have. I wouldn’t want to give that up. 41:45 – The verbiage of CCC 2370 regarding birth control, “rendering procreation impossible” puzzles me. I’m not sure how it would apply because both artificial contraception and NFP have similar success rates. 48:29 – What are some of the sins that a regular priest can’t absolve? And what should a priest do if someone confesses something illegal?

“How is the Mass Christ’s sacrifice?” This question leads to a discussion on how Catholics view the Mass as the re-presentation of Christ’s single sacrifice, despite the experience of imperfection after attending. Other topics include the validity of saying “My Lord and My God” during consecration, and how to address challenges to the authenticity of Scripture. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:35 – Catholics believe that the Mass is the re-presentation of the single sacrifice of Christ, which Hebrews 10:14 says makes us perfect. But Catholics attend Mass and leave not perfected. Therefore, the Mass must not be the single sacrifice of Christ. 16:02 – A couple weeks ago I heard someone on CA say that you shouldn’t say “My Lord and My God” at the consecration. But my priest told me there is actually a partial indulgence for doing this. What’s true? 23:52 – How do you navigate the constant bombardment of people who deny the authenticity of scripture? 33:52 – Was Jesus always there from the beginning with God? 43:46 – The Hail Mary and the Hail Holy Queen seem like idolatry to me. 50:20 – What do Catholics believe about predestination? Is every event meant to be?

“How do I deal with being the only Catholic?” This question resonates with many, especially those navigating family dynamics. The discussion also touches on finding a Catholic community as a young adult, managing heated debates with family members, and approaching the sensitive topic of conversion without causing conflict. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:28 – How do you deal with being the only Catholic in the family? 20:50 – I’m 21 and the only Catholic in my family. How do I find a Catholic community? 29:56 – I’m the only Catholic in my family. How do I keep cool when having a heated debate with my brother? 34:24 – I’m converting and will be the only Catholic in my family. How do I break this news to my family without burning bridges?

“Is addictive personality real?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of addiction, including insights on how to recognize an addictive personality. Other topics include strategies for helping a son struggling with nicotine and vaping, the intersection of faith and recovery in programs like Al Anon, and the role of sacraments in overcoming addiction. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:10 – Is there Such a thing as an addictive personality and how do i know i have one? 13:46 – I think my son struggles with nicotine and vaping, possibly some ADD. I think he is self-medicating. Any suggestions on how to help him? 18:50 – I was part of Al Anon and I feel like it brought me back to my Catholic faith. Ultimately I stopped going because they seemed to shun my Catholicism. Yet, it is interesting that they say they are a God-centered program. 29:16 – I have been in a 12 step program for food addiction for almost 20 years. I have recently had the epiphany that I can continue those meetings, but also go to Catholic in Recovery meetings where I can feel more relaxed about being open about my faith. 35:01 – I think the sacraments were the force that pulled me out of addiction. 41:09 – I sobered up in AA. I found that most people there who were against talking about Catholic faith were people who grew up Catholic but were hurt in some way. I found after a meeting was a great time to do apologetics. 47:59 – My dad is elderly and an alcoholic. Now he is sick. If he stopped his drinking his medication would work better. I don’t know how to approach it. Sometimes I feel like I’m giving up on him. 52:38 – I was addicted to pornography and I’m wondering if I’m doing the right thing by staying away from it.

“Can you help me understand the Catholic focus on Mary?” This question opens a discussion on the role of Mary in Catholicism, addressing why Catholics pray to her rather than solely to God. The conversation also touches on the Catholic version of salvation compared to the Protestant Romans Road and explores the nuances of the Catholic view of heaven. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 00:59 – Can you help me understand the Catholic focus on Mary? Why not just pray to God in Jesus’ name? 23:03 – The Protestants have Romans Road. Is there a Catholic version of that — a list of quick bullet points on how to get saved? 29:15 – It seems like many Protestants have a kind of flat view of heaven — you are either in or you are out. Is the Catholic view more nuanced than that? 39:58 – I’m a new Catholic. Can you give me advice on how to hear God’s voice when we pray?

“How do I get to heaven?” This question opens a discussion on the Catholic understanding of salvation, alongside intriguing inquiries about recognizing loved ones in heaven, including those we’ve never met, and the importance of guarding against presumption regarding our eternal destiny. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:20 – How do Catholics get to heaven? 20:35 – In heaven how will we know the people in our lives that we never met (like a miscarried child or an ancestor)? 40:17 – How do we guard against being presumptuous about going to heaven?

“What has Tim learned after 25 years of apologetics?” In this episode, Tim reflects on his extensive experience in Catholic apologetics, addressing questions such as the obligation of Catholics to follow Ember Days and the trustworthiness of the Catholic Church’s authority. He also tackles challenges faced by parents with children who have left the faith and discusses the complexities of interfaith dialogue regarding the nature of God. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – What has Tim Staples Learned after a quarter -century of doing Catholic Apologetics? 14:55 – Are Catholics still obliged to follow Ember Day? 18:20 – Why should we trust the Catholic Church and its authority? My friend is a non-Catholic and is concerned he will be deceived. He is trying to trust the Catholic Church but doesn’t know how. 41:34 – My adult son has left the faith and challenges me about it. He sent me a video of someone saying if Adam and Eve are the parents of humanity, how did we end up with so many races and genetic backgrounds. How would we answer this? 49:15 – Why does the Catechism teach Muslims worship the same God, when the God of the Koran is so vastly different from the God of the Bible? Is there a way to tell if another monotheistic religion worships the same God or not?

“Why did the Church end weekly fasting?” This question opens a discussion on the evolution of Church practices, alongside inquiries about the Church’s stance on jousting, the concept of limbo for infants, and the pastoral duties of priests. These topics reflect the diverse concerns and curiosities within the Catholic faith today. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – Why Did the church kill off weekly fasting? 08:00 – I have heard the Church banned jousting. Does that mean we can’t do that at Medieval Times? 13:27 – Is it acceptable for Catholics to believe in the limbo of the infants? 19:13 – How do I articulate the Catholic position that it is not faith alone that saves, without sounding like our works save us? 28:00 – Modeling Jesus in Dating Before Marriage 34:36 – I’ve been going through some ongoing stalking, hacking, and financial fraud. I thought I could go to the Church for help but they don’t seem to be able to offer me support. What are the pastoral duties of a priest? I’ve been thinking of leaving the Catholic Church because of this. 43:54 – Why is it the norm in the US to receive communion in the hand and standing? Why did it change from what seems to be a more reverent posture? 48:09 – How can the Church hold up Mary and Joseph as an ideal marriage, when they did not consummate and therefore it would not have had a sacramental marriage? 51:23 – When should you leave your parish for another parish based on your priest teaching false things? My priest is very loving and kind, but is not on board with some doctrines and some sexual teaching of the Church?

“Why don’t we see more of the charismatic gifts in the Catholic Church?” This question opens a discussion that also touches on the nature of original sin and God’s relationship with evil, as well as addressing concerns about Pope Vigilius and responses to objections regarding God’s presence. The conversation provides clarity on these diverse theological topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:18 – Why don’t I see more of the charismatic gifts in the Catholic Church? 11:09 – Discussion with Non-denom Sister. Thinks Jesus was not free from original sin and God created evil. Looking for Bible focused responses for the idea that God is completely incompatible with sin. 19:00 – Did Pope Vigilius go against earlier popes in the 3 chapter controversy. 29:25 – An orthodox objection. What’s a good response to the idea that we only see God in his energies. 34:00 – How do I speak about the Catholic Faith to my friends and family who say Catholicism is too complicated? 46:14 – If I become Catholic, do I need a new name?

“How do I explain that Jesus is God?” This question leads to a discussion on the nature of Christ and the Trinity, while also addressing related topics such as the historical disagreements between Catholics and Orthodox on the canon of scriptures and the evolving emphasis on Mary in the Church. Additional questions touch on interfaith relationships and early church governance. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:35 – When did Catholics and Orthodox begin to disagree on the canon of scriptures? 15:00 – Why don’t we hear anything about Mary? It seems like the Church has much more emphasis on her now than in early church? 24:28 – How do I explain to my family members that Jesus is God? 35:20 – My son is dating a Ukrainian Orthodox girl. Are they in line with the Roman catholic church? Can you give me 3 similarities and differences between the two? 42:46 – I’m Not Trinitarian because Jesus has a proper name, the Father has a proper name. But the Holy Spirit does not have a proper name. 47:47 – Was there more of a democracy of bishops in the early church? I don’t want to jump into a system similar to Mormonism again.

“Can salvation happen outside the Church?” This question opens a discussion on the Catholic understanding of salvation, addressing concerns from Protestants about Church teachings. Other topics include navigating a past as a Protestant while exploring Catholicism and the reasoning behind Paul’s letter to the Romans despite Peter’s presence in the city. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:23 – I have many protestants tell me that they would never become Catholic because the Church teaches salvation outside the Church. 11:38 – I became Protestant in 2021 and am now looking into Catholicism. How do I process my past life? 22:10 – If Peter was in Rome then why did Paul write the letter to the Romans? 34:57 – Do Christian who are hostile to the Catholic Church still have invincible ignorance?

“How Could Mary ascend to heaven?” This question leads to a discussion about the implications of Jesus’ words in John 3:13 regarding who has ascended to heaven. The conversation also touches on the scriptural basis for the communion of saints, the Church’s stance on marriage for the infertile, and the complexities of indulgences. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:00 – Mary’s bodily assumption doesn’t make sense because Jesus says in John 3:13, “No one has ascended up to heaven, but he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.” If no man has ascended into heaven, wouldn’t that include the Blessed Virgin Mary? 07:23 – Where do we find the communion of saints in scripture? 14:22 – Is it true that a person who is infertile cannot get married in the Catholic Church? 19:09 – I cannot wrap my mind around indulgences. 31:17 – How do I defend Jesus and the accusations that he was a fraud? 46:11 – Why do we profess in the Nicene Creed that the power of the Holy Spirit made Jesus incarnate not the power of the Son? 51:36 – Are we called to suffer or do we ask the saints to relieve our suffering?

Questions Covered: 05:13 – Sexual Sins 08:56 – Fornication 16:20 – Adultery 18:30 – Pornography 21:54 – Masturbation 29:52 – Homosexual Acts and Contraception 33:00 – Sins of the Heart

Questions Covered: 06:05 – What is a mortal sin? 07:08 – The three components of mortal sins 20:33 – Sins Against God 21:00 – Idolatry 23:42 – Blasphemy 29:32 – Missing Mass 32:51 – Occult practices 37:42 – Sins Against Others 39:19 – Murder/War 42:00 – Gossip 50:41 – Lying/Slander

Questions Covered: 02:20 – How culpable are people of other religions when it comes to not following Jesus? 09:42 – How did the Church select the popes before conclaves? When did it fall on the shoulders of the college of cardinals? 13:50 – Why do we have the books in the bible that we do? Why did they remove those books in the reformation? 21:57 – Which Church Father writings about Mary would you recommend for a Protestant? 23:47 – Why do Catholics believe that both species contain the body, blood, soul and divinity if the consecration separates them? 29:00 – If the Jews couldn’t kill Jesus, forcing them to send Jesus to be crucified, then why did they stone people? 41:07 – How is it that the Orthodox Church is considered in schism, but the Anglican Church is not? Seems like they have similar issues with unity with the Catholic Church. 48:42 – Do we know when St. Joseph died? Is there anything in the bible? 49:23 – On what level of reality does the eucharist change? 50:32 – What do you think are the weirdest things that Jesus taught?

Questions Covered: 4:00 – If the early church was Catholic, then why doesn’t it look anything like the Catholic Church of today? 11:32 – Can Catholics use the title Christotokos alongside theotokos? 17:31 – Question from Non Catholic Family-Member: How does Mary intercede for us if she’s not alive? 23:43 – If the Eucharist is truly Jesus, body and soul, why isn’t it open to everyone, and why are priests allowed to determine who receives it? How do I answer? 31:03 – What is the best argument for Catholicism to a Protestant who accepts the Nicene creed? 36:59 – If someone who received the gospel of Jesus and believed, should the Church immediately baptize him since we have a similar example in the Ethiopian eunuch? 44:11 – What are the theological differences between the Catholics and the Orthodox? 49:33 – Is there a list of infallible teachings that has been published?

“What is the Catholic Church?” This question opens a discussion about the Church’s identity and mission, while also addressing how to navigate family dynamics when dealing with issues like homosexuality. Additional topics include the challenges of engaging with an evangelical perspective on the Catholic Church and fostering relationships with family members who hold anti-Catholic views. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:45 – What is the Catholic Church? 13:48 – How do I deal with family who is fully immersed in homosexuality? 28:57 – I’m evangelical. The premise that the Church that Jesus founded was the Roman Catholic Church is false. 49:07 – My mom is a evangelical, former Catholic and anti-Cathoic. How do I bridge that gap and have a relationship with her?

“What makes music sacred?” This question opens a discussion on the essence of sacred music, touching on its spiritual significance. The conversation also addresses practical concerns like where to find chant sheets for traditional Latin Mass altar serving and whether sacred music must stem from a place of faith. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – What makes music sacred? 30:15 – I altar serve at the TLM and have a hard time chant sheets. Where do you recommend I find them? 36:35 – Would you agree that sacred music has to be a product of faith?

“How do I explain Mary’s sinlessness to my Protestant wife?” This question opens a discussion on the role of Mary in Catholic theology, addressing concerns from recent converts and their families. Other topics include offering comfort after a loved one’s passing, navigating doubts about Sola Scriptura, and understanding the Church’s teachings on end times and marital relations. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:21 – I’m a recent convert. How do I address the sinlessness of Mary to my Protestant wife? 17:41 – My non-Catholic father-in-law died suddenly. What words of comfort can I offer to my Catholic family? 24:33 – If I become convinced of certain Church teachings but still have major questions about things regarding Sola Scriptura, would it be a good thing to move towards Catholicism? 34:05 – Regarding the end time, it appears Irenaeus is premillennial and claims he gets it from St. John, but the Church teaches against it. How binding is this? 42:35 – I’m a recent convert. My wife had a procedure to save her life that required the removal of parts of her reproductive system. Is it a sin to have relations since we cannot be open to life? 47:31 – Where does Mary fit in because she’s always popping up everywhere? Why is she so prominently seen?

“Did the Early Church teach that Mary sinned?” This question opens a discussion on Marian doctrine, while also addressing the moral implications of investing in Christian-friendly funds versus secular ones. Other topics include reconciling John 6:35 with the Eucharist and the ethical concerns surrounding IVF, providing a comprehensive look at contemporary Catholic issues. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – Did the Early Church teach that Mary sinned? 14:00 – Regarding the principles of cooperating with evil. Do I have a moral obligation to invest in Christian friendly funds over secular ones? 21:38 – How do I reconcile John 6:35 with the literal understanding of his body and blood? 30:37 – What makes IVF fundamentally wrong? Where does the right to be conceived through natural means come from? 50:35 – How do we respond to the Protestant claim that they also offer a sacrifice, but it’s a sacrifice of praise?

Can suffering or illness in our family be a punishment from God for our sins? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists address this difficult and deeply personal question before exploring a wide range of theological and pastoral topics. The discussion covers whether Catholics may hold the Genesis Gap Theory, how the Church can better evangelize people with disabilities, and why Catholic teaching on the death penalty has developed over time. Additional questions examine the extraordinary endurance of St. Paul, the purpose of offering prayer intentions with the Rosary, why Catholicism claims to be more than just another denomination, and why sacramental confession is necessary before receiving Holy Communion in certain situations. A thoughtful conversation on suffering, grace, Church authority, and the sacraments. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered:  01:12 – Is it possible that God punishes my continuous sin through my son’s disease?    04:19 – Can a Catholic hold to the Genesis Gap Theory? Or is it heretical?   12:41 – How can the Church evangelize to those with disabilities? What are good resources that can help me get started?    19:28 – Can we in good conscience support the death penalty? I can’t seem to understand why the church changed this. In theory can’t the church’s teaching on this revert?    28:37 – Is there a miraculous quality to St. Paul recovering from the stoning at Lystra or from all of the other beatings he suffered? It seems any number of the rods, stonings, etc. could have disabled him and made his long-distance travel impossible.    32:49 – How does setting a prayer intention before praying a rosary differ from just praying for that intention directly without praying a rosary, does it have something to do with the merit involved with praying a rosary? Thank you!    36:40 – Why can’t Catholicism be just another denomination among the denominations? I think Protestants see Catholicism as a Christian denomination, thus no need to make the move if they are already happy where they are.   43:02 – If priests have the sacramental power to ordain, why has this actually happened so rarely in Church history?    46:50 – Why is it mandatory to go to a priest for confession before one can go for Holy Communion. Why isn’t going to God directly sufficient for this?  If someone sits on his seat because he hasn’t gone for confession, everyone would see that he hasn’t gone to confession, it would elicit some kind of shame on this person. 

“What’s the best argument for Catholicism?” This episode addresses the top argument to convince an unbeliever, while also tackling questions about submitting to the Church amid concerns of sin, the differences between original sin and ancestral sin, and the significance of Marian prayers. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:55 – What’s the top argument to convince an unbeliever? 10:40 – Am I supposed to submit to the Church even though it might be sinning? 18:20 – How is the Catholic doctrine of original sin better than the Eastern doctrine of ancestral sin? 29:10 – In the earliest known Marian prayer its written, “…do not despise our petitions in time of trouble, but rescue us from danger. Only pure one, only blessed one.“ As a former Protestant, the “rescue us“ Part troubles me a bit to pray. 32:54 – How can I explain to a non-Catholic the difference between a blessed item and a “good luck” charm? 40:03 – What is the explanation for the Celibate priesthood? 46:42 – My friend is not Catholic because other denominations have sacraments and clergy, how do I as a Catholic respond to that argument? 52:03 – Can you clarify the teaching of paragraph 1377 in the Catechism which states that…” Consecration endures as long as the Eucharistic species exists…?

“Where do we see the Marian doctrines in Scripture?” This question opens a discussion on the biblical foundations of Marian beliefs, alongside inquiries about why Catholics refer to Mary as “holy” and “our life, our sweetness, and our hope,” and the differences in veneration of Mary among various Christian traditions. The episode also addresses the Catholic and Orthodox views on the Immaculate Conception and the significance of Mary as the Queen of Heaven. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – Where do we see the Marian Doctrines in scripture? 23:43 – Why do Catholics call Mary “holy” and “our life, our sweetness, and our hope” in the Salve Regina? 28:59 – Is there a difference in veneration of Mary in EO, Assyrian Church Of The East, OO and Catholicism? 32:49 – How does the Catholic view of the Immaculate Conception differ from the Orthodox view (as it relates to Original Sin)? And what is the evidence for the Catholic view? 45:45 – How can we be sure Mary is the Queen of Heaven? 50:40 – Why are there so many apparitions of Mary but not of Jesus?

“What are Near Death Experiences?” This question opens a discussion on near-death experiences and the nature of the soul. The conversation also addresses critiques of NDE content, the concept of purification in the afterlife as described by Father Nathan Castle, and intriguing thoughts on the relationship between soul and brain in hypothetical scenarios. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 00:55 – What do you say to critics of your content on NDEs, who say that it understates the skeptical research in the academic NDE literature? 18:50 – What do you think of the way purification seems to occur in Father Nathan Castle’s afterlife accounts? It would seem that rather than experiencing a “painful” and “fiery” purification as often depicted in pious stories and prayers about purgatory over the centuries, the souls essentially just learn new things and gradually correct their misunderstandings and errors, including needing to come to grips with their past sins and their effects on others. The idea that angels, saints and deceased relatives all get involved at different points along the journey of purification of souls and to help them move to a new level really appeals to me. 36:17 – If two individuals had their brains swapped, would their soul remain in their original bodies? Or if it stayed, how would the mismatched soul/brain experience consciousness? 46:01 – My wife is utterly convinced that all lizards including and especially the dinosaurs used to be dragons and wings were the limbs mentioned in Genesis when God punished the serpent. Note that most modern-day lizards although they do have legs still scurry around on their bellies because of their wide stance.

“Can humans possess one another?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of influence and control, including the implications of brainwashing techniques. Additionally, the episode addresses what happens to souls in purgatory at the end of the world and whether it’s morally acceptable to seek the identity of a ghost that may be trying to communicate. Other intriguing topics include the concept of fallen guardian angels and their replacements. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:40 – can human beings possess one another? For example: would brainwashing techniques done by the CIA and other government agencies with the use of LSD and other mind-altering drugs count as possession? My understanding is that the subject’s personality is changed, and they become very influenceable. Is this a form of possession by humans? 20:07 – My 9-year-old son loves listening to your show. He is wondering if you could shed any light on what might happen to the souls in purgatory when the end of the world comes. Do they get forcibly zapped through the rest of their purification process? 33:21 – If you have good reason to believe a ghost in purgatory is trying to get your attention, is it morally okay to ask them to reveal their identity? Context: a few years ago I was home alone with my newborn daughter on All Souls Day and heard repeated loud rattling sounds coming from the kitchen. The baby began screaming. I calmly walked out and said, “Whoever is bothering my baby, go away.” The rattling stopped and I have never heard it since. I have had Mass said for the soul, and also for one person I suspect it might have been, but I am not sure. Is it forbidden to ask for such knowledge or should I be content to wait? 44:37 – Are there fallen guardian angels, if so do we get a replacement if our intended guardian angel fell?

Does John 6 really teach the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, or are Catholics reading too much into the passage? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists continue responding to major Protestant objections to the Catholic interpretation of Jesus’ Bread of Life discourse. The discussion examines whether Jesus’ failure to clarify misunderstandings proves literal intent, how Catholics answer the Old Testament prohibition against drinking blood, and whether John 6 is truly connected to the Eucharist despite John not including the Last Supper narrative. Additional questions address figurative language about never hungering or thirsting, what Jesus meant by promising eternal life, and where the Gospel of John fits among the four Gospels. A detailed biblical defense of the Eucharist and the Catholic understanding of John 6. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 10:01 – Catholics argue that since Jesus didn’t clarify the literal thoughts of his listeners then he must have intended his words to be taken literally. But Jesus’ lack of clarification for misunderstandings is nothing new under the sun. He did it in John 2:15-17 concerning his teaching about destroying the temple of his body.  16:37 – Jesus can’t intend us to literally drink his blood because the Bible prohibits the partaking of blood in Leviticus 17:10-12.”  21:22 – Catholics appeal to John 6 to prove Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist. But John 6 has nothing to do with the Eucharist at the Last Supper.  30:15 – Where does John Fall among the gospels since John does not contain the last supper?  35:04 – If Catholics take Jesus’ words to eat his flesh literally, then would also have to take his words literally in verse 35 when he speaks of never hungering when we come to him and never thirsting when we believe in him.  45:57 – If Jesus meant his words literally—and intended us to engage in a physical act to eat his flesh, then we’d have to take him literally when he says that we will never die. 

Do Catholics interpret John 6 consistently, or are Jesus’ words about eating His flesh just symbolic like calling Himself the “gate” or the “vine”? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists respond to some of the strongest Protestant objections to the Catholic understanding of the Eucharist. The discussion examines whether John 6 should be interpreted metaphorically, how the surrounding context affects Jesus’ teaching, and what Christ meant when He said “the flesh is of no avail.” The episode also explores why many disciples walked away from Jesus in John 6 and whether their reaction supports or undermines the Catholic doctrine of the Real Presence. A deep and biblical defense of the Eucharist rooted in Scripture, theology, and the words of Christ Himself. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:23 – Catholics aren’t consistent in their interpretation of John 6. They interpret Jesus’ words about eating his flesh and drinking his blood literally in John 6, but they don’t do that when it comes to his words about being the “gate” in John 10:9 or the “vine” in John 15.  15:52 – Catholics ignore the preceding context in verse 35 where 3. Jesus uses the metaphors of eating and drinking for coming to and believing in him. If Jesus used those images as metaphors there, then he must have used them as metaphors when he speaks of eating his flesh and drinking his blood.  30:05 – Catholics ignore verse 27 where Jesus moves away from a physical mentality and takes things in a spiritual direction.  Here’s what he says, “Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you.” This distinction between spiritual and physical food serves as the basis for interpreting Jesus’s words about eating his flesh figuratively rather than literally.  35:50 – Catholics argue that Jesus never clarified his audience’s literal thoughts. But that’s not true. He does it in John 6:63, where he says, “It is the Spirit that gives life; the flesh is of no avail. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.”  50:20 – Catholics argue that because Jesus let his disciples leave based on their literal interpretation of his command to eat his flesh and drink his blood that meant Jesus meant the words literally. But the disciples didn’t leave because of Jesus’ teaching. Rather, they left because of Jesus’ teaching in verse 65 that no one comes to him unless the Father draw him. 

Can human reason alone lead us to the conclusion that God is personal, even without divine revelation? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists tackle deep philosophical and theological questions about God, authority, and the Church. The discussion explores whether Eastern Orthodoxy has a singular teaching authority comparable to the papacy, why Catholics often receive only the host and not the chalice at Communion, and whether extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion are sometimes overused. Additional topics include whether Adam was a single historical person or a group, how to evangelize someone immersed in New Age spirituality, and whether the early Church taught any doctrines no longer held today. A thoughtful conversation on Catholic theology, Church practice, and apologetics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 12:36 – Is there a way to arrive at the conclusion of the personhood of God without resorting to revelation?   21:46 – Does Eastern Orthodoxy have a singular authority like we do?  29:07 – How come everyone takes the host for communion but not everyone gets the chalice?  32:07 – Are extraordinary ministers of holy communion only to be used in emergency situations? My priest doesn’t always give communion at mass. He lets the EMs do it. Is that an abuse?  39:35 – Was Adam one man or a group of men?  43:00 – How do you start a conversation with someone who’s kind of a “new age junkie?” Like they’re always looking for a spiritual high or buying the next big self-help book, but can’t be bothered to open the Gospels?  48:54 – Is there something that the early church believed in terms of doctrine that isn’t taught today? 

Why did the Pharisees and Sadducees fiercely disagree about the resurrection, and why is the resurrection so central to Catholic belief? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists explain the theological importance of bodily resurrection before tackling questions about the Protestant and Jewish biblical canons, including why Maccabees is missing despite its connection to Hanukkah. The discussion also explores common misunderstandings about Catholic teaching on salvation, including accusations of “works-based salvation,” how justification can grow even while Christians still commit venial sins, and the connection between the Bread of Life discourse and Christ’s Passion. The episode concludes with pastoral advice for someone in OCIA facing family conflict about becoming Catholic and attending Mass. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:22 – Why was there a dispute between the Pharisees and Sadducees on resurrection, and why is it so central to Catholic teaching?  11:14 – Is the protestant bible based off of the Jewish translation of the bible? Why doesn’t the Jewish bible have  Maccabees, since those books contain the origin of Hanukkah?  20:10 – How would we respond to someone who pushes back when we say don’t believe in a works-based salvation? They say that we would claim someone loses their salvation if they miss Mass.  30:20 – How do we reconcile a justification that progresses and still commit venial sin?  37:01 – How close in time was the bread of life discourse to the Passion of Christ?  51:30 – I’m in OCIA and my husband doesn’t agree with my decision. If I were to become Catholic and I can’t make it to mass because of issues at home, will I be in mortal sin? 

“How is the Eucharist not cannibalism?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of the Eucharist, addressing misconceptions while also touching on the movement of the Holy Spirit in communities, the need for an infallible interpreter of scripture, and the concept of mortal sin in Catholic teaching. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:24 – How is the Eucharist not cannibalism? 15:30 – I think the Pentecostal belief in the real movement of the Holy Spirit within the community was pretty convincing. What is the best response to this? 22:31 – How do I answer the following: The Catholic argument that we need an infallible interpreter for scripture would not work because then you would need an infallible interpreter of the infallible interpreter and so on. 37:08 – For Catholics almost anything can be a mortal sin but for Jesus there is one mortal sin. 43:00 – What was lacking in Jesus that made the Jews reject Jesus as the Messiah in the early church? 52:15 – How do we interpret the magisterium? How do we know when we are interpreting the magisterium correctly?

“How do we know Mary is a perpetual virgin?” This question leads to a discussion on the implications of Luke 1:34 and the differing views between Catholics and Protestants. Other topics include whether Jesus fulfilled all Mosaic sacrificial offerings and the nature of baptism, specifically if it refers to the baptism of the Holy Spirit rather than water. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:40 – In support of the belief that Mary was a Perpetual virgin, Catholics appeal to Luke 1:34 where Mary asks Gabriel how she’s going to conceive a child since she doesn’t “know man,” the implication being she hasn’t had sexual relations with Joseph. But some Protestants counter that Mary asked this because she wasn’t yet married to Joseph. How do we respond? 13:29 – Regarding Jesus’ sacrifice, did he fulfill all Mosaic sacrificial offerings? Or just specific offerings? 21:19 – Is baptism actually the baptism of the holy spirit, not that of water, and is the evidence speaking in tongues? 29:49 – Were Mary and Joseph actually married but just hadn’t consummated it? 41:35 – Mark 9:38-41 is the best argument for Protestantism. 51:15 – What is the connection between the coronation and the bodily assumption?

Did Vatican II introduce harmful changes to the Catholic Church, and does Catholic theology go too far in defining mysteries like the Eucharist? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists respond to major Orthodox objections to Catholicism, covering theology, Church history, and doctrine. The discussion examines Catholic teaching on remarriage and original sin, the necessity of the Immaculate Conception, and the Christological differences between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches. Additional topics include whether transubstantiation “overdefines” the Eucharist, why Orthodox and Catholic biblical canons differ, and whether Catholic theology lacks the Orthodox essence–energies distinction. A thoughtful and charitable look at some of the deepest divisions between East and West. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Objections Covered: 02:12 – Vatican II introduced harmful theological and liturgical changes.  05:51 – Catholic teaching on remarriage is too rigid.  13:36 – Catholic original sin wrongly teaches inherited guilt.  17:14 – The Immaculate Conception is unnecessary and unfounded.  28:52 – What does one say about the Christological differences between the Oriental Orthodox Churches and the Catholic. They claim they hold to the early definitions of Ephesus that we have abandoned.  36:14 – Transubstantiation overdefines the Eucharistic mystery.  39:57 – Why do Orthodox Churches differ with us on the canon of Scriptura?  47:57 – Catholicism lacks the essence–energies distinction. 

Are papal supremacy and papal infallibility later inventions unknown to the early Church? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists respond to some of the most common Orthodox objections to Catholicism. Topics include whether the papacy is biblical, if the Filioque was an illegitimate change to the Nicene Creed, and whether mandatory clerical celibacy reflects apostolic Christianity. The discussion also examines claims that purgatory and indulgences are Western corruptions, whether doctrinal development preserves or distorts the faith, and if Rome’s actions caused the East–West Schism. Finally, the episode addresses whether Vatican I contradicts the structure and authority of the early Church. A deep and charitable exploration of the major theological divisions between Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Objections Covered: 02:34 – Papal supremacy is unbiblical and unknown in the early Church.  12:00 – Papal infallibility is a late doctrinal invention. Papal authority undermines conciliar Church governance.  18:45 – The Filioque is both unauthorized and theologically incorrect. Rome illegitimately altered the Nicene Creed.  24:20 – Mandatory clerical celibacy is non-apostolic.  30:33 – Purgatory is a Western innovation without early consensus.  36:37 – Doctrinal development is corruption, not preservation.  42:07 – Indulgences distort repentance and were historically abused.  45:40 – The East–West Schism was caused by Rome’s overreach.  49:42 – Vatican I contradicts the structure of the early Church. 

Could Jesus have been an alien using advanced technology—and how can Christians know that’s not true? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Jimmy Akin tackles some of the strangest and most fascinating questions listeners have ever asked. He explains whether receiving Communion affects Ash Wednesday fasting rules, what kinds of abilities resurrected bodies may have, and why theories about Jesus as an extraterrestrial don’t hold up historically or theologically. The discussion also explores why Rome is called the Church founded by Christ despite Jerusalem coming first chronologically, whether dinosaur cancer challenges traditional understandings of the Fall, and what Christians should think about pets and the end times. A fun and thoughtful episode blending theology, science, apologetics, and the unusual questions Jimmy Akin is famous for addressing. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:04 – In the case of Ash Wednesday, when fasting and abstinence are required, would receiving communion break one’s fast or count as a smaller meal? In other words, can one receive communion in addition to eating one full meal and two smaller meals? Thanks, Jimmy!  12:24 – Hi Jimmy. You’ve previously mentioned Aquinas and the possibility that humans have low-level psychic ability.. Will our resurrected body have other abilities, such as telekinesis or telepathy? Will I be able to fly like Superman? Jesus ascended, and there are stories about Saints “levitating”, so will the body get any potential flying or levitating abilities, or what other abilities might we get?  23:48 – How can we be sure that Jesus wasn’t actually an alien talking about his “father in heaven” who is actually in outer space and his spaceship is actually his kingdom? And the eternal life that we get from following Jesus to his kingdom is from advanced alien technology that keeps you alive forever? And the immaculate conception was by an alien that performed IVF on Mary, and the “angels” in the Bible are actually all just aliens too? This question has really been the only thing challenging my faith, even though it seems preposterous.  40:59 – How is the Church of Rome considered “the first church” or “the church that Christ founded”, when (chronologically) the first church was in Jerusalem?  44:38 – I watched a video with a young earth creationist who claimed that there are dinosaur fossils that show evidence of cancer, which was, in his opinion, proof that dinosaurs existed after the fall because cancer wouldn’t have existed until after the fall. The question has kind of bothered me ever since. If dinosaurs went extinct before humans existed, why would they have had cancer?  50:22 – What will happen to our pets after the Rapture? 

What is the mysterious “Devil’s Bible,” also known as the Codex Gigas, and should Catholics be concerned about it? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Jimmy Akin explores the strange history and legends surrounding one of the world’s most famous medieval manuscripts. He also examines the mysterious naked young man in Mark’s Gospel, whether Genesis surprisingly parallels aspects of evolution, and why meteorology is considered scientific while astrology is rejected by the Church. The episode concludes with fascinating questions about purgatory, including whether souls in purgatory can pray for others and whether the Church has ever recognized authentic communication from them. A wide-ranging discussion blending Scripture, history, theology, and the strange corners of Catholic thought. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:54 – Hey Jimmy. I really enjoy your show. Not many Catholic podcasts I’ve found address the weirder aspects of our world. My question is in regards to the Codex Gigas, or the devil’s bible. I’ve heard a lot of secular sources talk about it but not really any Catholic ones. What is your opinion on its mysterious origin story?  11:09 – What’s the deal with the naked young man in Mark 14:51-52?  19:26 – Here’s a question for you Jimmy: in Genesis 1:20-23, it discusses how God created life.  It started with water animals, then birds, then land animals.  Does that not in fact mirror how we acknowledge the evolution of life on earth exactly, from life beginning in water, then dinosaurs (birds) and then mammals?  29:48 – I sometimes wonder why it is permissible to use meteorology but not astrology. Why can I observe the movements of air parcels and high and low pressure fronts to decide I shouldn’t plan a picnic for this weekend because it will likely rain, but I cannot turn my eyes a little higher and observe the movements of the heavenly bodies to know that I shouldn’t plan my clarinet recital for August when Mercury will be in retrograde?  44:42 – If the souls in purgatory cannot pray for themselves.  Can they pray for the other souls in purgatory or for us. Has there ever been a communication or action from a soul in purgatory that is recognized by the church as authentic? 

What does the Catholic Church do when someone claims the Virgin Mary is appearing to them? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists explain how the Church investigates reported apparitions and discerns whether they are authentic. The conversation also explores why Jewish Bibles do not include Maccabees despite the importance of Hanukkah, why Catholics believe Jesus has two natures, and how to better understand St. John Henry Newman’s famous quote about history and Catholicism. Additional questions cover biblical support for confession and Communion obligations, who Jesus was referring to when He said “Father, forgive them,” how Catholics recognize ex cathedra teachings, and when the Eucharist becomes the Body and Blood of Christ. The episode concludes with advice for non-Catholics discerning whether the Catholic Church is true. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:58 – If a person claims that Mary is appearing to them, how is that dealt with in the Church?  12:50 – Since Hanukkah is big in the Jewish tradition, why don’t they have Maccabees in their bible?  20:50 – Why do Catholics believe that Jesus has two natures vs. one nature?  22:56 – How do I better understand Newman’s quote, “to be rooted in history is to be Catholic?” I’ve been looking into history, and I’m not convinced.  28:54 – What bible verse could I use to back up the claim that we should go to confession and communion at least once a  33:59 – When Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,” who was guilty?  37:44 – How do I know when something is declared ex cathedra? How can I brush up more on papal infallibility?  42:30 – When exactly does the Eucharist become Jesus?  48:35 – I’m not Catholic. How do I know if Catholicism is the right way to go? 

How can Catholics begin studying apologetics and get better at debating Protestants? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists offer practical advice for learning Scripture, Church history, and core Catholic doctrines in a charitable and effective way. The discussion also addresses whether a pope at Vatican I really said “I am tradition,” whether watching Mass online fulfills a Catholic’s obligation after COVID-era habits, and why some Protestants strongly oppose devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The episode concludes with a look at whether any of the apostles were married or had families before following Jesus. A helpful conversation on apologetics, Church teaching, and Christian history. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 15:16 – How do I begin studying to get good at debating protestants?  23:43 – Did the pope at Vatican 1 actually say “I am tradition”?  29:19 – Since COVID-19, my wife has been watching the Mass every Saturday. Is that okay?  40:26 – Why are some Protestants opposed to the Blessed Mother?  47:07 – Were any of the 12 apostles married or have children that they had to leave in order to follow Jesus? 

“Is leaving the Church a mortal sin?” This question opens a discussion on the implications of faith and scandal, particularly regarding a friend’s conversion to Protestantism. Other topics include the distinction between Jesus being Catholic or Christian, the reasons for embracing Catholicism, and concerns about praying to Mary. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:36 – My friend left the Catholic church and became protestant because of scandal. Is he in Jeopardy of mortal sin? 16:35 – Was Jesus Catholic or Christian. What’s the difference? 24:45 – Explain in one minute why someone should be Catholic. 29:17 – I have PTSD, Anxiety, depression, how can I go to OCIA? 37:13 – I don’t think it’s right to pray Mary 47:21 – What in Vatican 2 is infallible? Does a certain word need to be included for a statement to be infallible?

“What do modern people not get about Jesus?” This question opens a discussion on contemporary misunderstandings of Christ’s nature and mission. The conversation also touches on whether Jesus always knew he was divine, the Church’s stance on penances, and the significance of Mary’s betrothal despite her virginity. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:59 – What do modern people not get about Jesus? 16:54 – Did Jesus always know he was divine, or did he only know this after his baptism? 31:39 – Has the Catholic Church Changed its views on the severity of penances? 42:20 – Why was Mary betrothed if she was dedicated as a virgin? 49:23 – I talk to Jesus, God the father, and the Holy Spirit separately. How should I address them as three persons or do I even need to? What do you call on them for?

“Why do Catholics believe in baptism?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of baptism in Catholic faith, addressing how Catholics understand being born again through this sacrament. Other topics include navigating relationships with family in the SSPX, the role of evangelism for new converts, and the interpretation of 1 Peter 3:21 regarding baptismal regeneration. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:45 – Why do Catholics believe we are born again at baptism, and how do we answer Protestants who deny it? 06:50 – I’m a convert and I have family who are SSPX and they say that its wrong for me to go to my church. How do I navigate this and why do they believe this? 13:51 – What do Catholics believe about evangelism? I’m about to be confirmed and am wondering what God will expect of me. 20:53 – 1 Peter 3:21 says baptism now saves you. But it seems like the later part of that verse would contradict the Catholic view of baptismal regeneration. 29:25 – I’m married and considering becoming a permanent deacon. I am too young for the program now, but what can I do to form myself now before I am eligible for the program at age 35? 33:47 – Why is artificial insemination a sin? 41:15 – John 3:5 says nobody can enter the kingdom of heaven unless they are born of water and the spirit. How does this square with Genesis 2:4-7, which seems to describe a baptism of Adam. Adam was already in the kingdom, so why would he need baptism? 46:20 – Why does the Catholic Church practice infant baptism? Shouldn’t it be later like with confirmation?

“Why do Catholics believe in Mary’s virginity?” This question opens a discussion on the biblical basis for Mary’s perpetual virginity, particularly referencing Luke 1:34. The conversation also touches on the complexities of believing in Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions, as well as the challenges of understanding papal comments amidst political perceptions. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:25 – Why do Catholics believe Luke 1:34 supports Mary’s perpetual virginity? 13:02 – Why believe in Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions when some of them can be proven to be false? 20:50 – Why do people constantly refer to our pope as liberal or conservative instead of just a faithful Catholic? Why do popes make comments that cause controversy or cause confusion? 32:08 – I was wondering if I need an annulment since I’m getting divorced? Why would I need it? 35:28 – Why do we pray to the saints and how can I help my wife see this using the bible? 45:15 – Why should we find comfort in the Church being right if it appears to be conforming to political correctness?

“What does it mean to say that marriage is sacred?” This question opens a discussion on the profound nature of marriage within the Catholic faith. Additional topics include how to support adult children during a parent’s annulment and navigating challenges in a marriage with an irreligious spouse. The conversation also touches on fostering virtue and healing after divorce. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:35 – What does it mean to say that marriage is sacred? 14:40 – I’m new to the Catholic faith. I have adult children, have received an annulment, and am getting married. How can I help my non-Catholic adult children deal with the fact that the Church is saying their mom and dad were not really married. 20:25 – I’m struggling with my husband who is mostly irreligious (nominally Lutheran) and very controlling. He doesn’t seem to be very interested in being part of the family. People tell me I shouldn’t stay in the marriage. 33:49 – As a friend of someone who recently went through a divorce, how can I bring my friend into a closer relationship with God, and help in healing from the divorce. He practices the faith but does not have a very close relationship with God. 41:29 – How can a wife approach her husband about growing in virtue. She is nervous about asking him to do something that would require him to sacrifice. 48:42 – I’ve been separated from my husband for 20 years. He is finally going to counseling, but won’t do marriage counseling because he says he needs to work on his own trauma first. Any advice? 53:10 – How does one learn to prepare for marriage? I’ve been married almost 40 years and wondering how to teach this to my kids.

“What is the most beautiful aspect of Catholic faith?” This question opens a discussion on the profound elements of faith that often go uncommunicated in apologetics. The conversation also touches on how to rekindle a personal relationship with God after conversion, finding beauty in the Mass despite familiarity, and responding to evangelical critiques. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:20 – What is the most beautiful aspect of the Catholic faith that you didn’t think you were communicating while doing apologetics? 18:50 – I’m in a similar situation. I converted due to a relationship but now I’m all head knowledge. How do I get back to the relationship part? 42:38 – How do you find beauty in the mass when you’ve gone all your life and have almost become desensitized to it? 49:00 – How would you respond to evangelical counters to what you’re saying?

“How can couples decide when they disagree?” This question addresses the complexities of decision-making in marriage, especially when spouses hold opposing views that could lead to sin. Additionally, the discussion touches on whether a Catholic can pray in a Bahai temple, how to counter Jehovah’s Witnesses’ views on the Church, and the connections between ancient Hebrew weddings and the Mass. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:45 – In a marriage, if the consciences of the husband and wife are formed to have an opposite opinion on something, such that if option A is chosen then the wife is sinning, and if option B is chosen the husband is sinning — how can they make a decision? 17:20 – I was invited by a friend to say a prayer in a Bahai temple. Is it okay for a Catholic to do that? 21:47 – I asked some Jehovah’s Witnesses how they justified their restorationist view of the Church. What scripture might they cite for their explanation, and how might I counter that? 29:18 – I have been studying ancient Hebrew weddings. And there are so many connections between that and the Mass. I’m wondering why we don’t see more catechesis based on this — is there some kind of danger in it? 42:25 – What language do you think Adam and Eve spoke?

“If Jesus was Jewish, why are we Christian?” This question opens a discussion on the roots of Christianity and its relationship to Judaism. The episode also addresses the necessity of seeking truth in a diverse worldview, the implications of practicing yoga or transcendental meditation for Catholics, and the annulment process for converts. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:20 – If Jesus was Jewish, why are we Christian? 12:50 – What is a succinct way to argue for the necessity of finding the truest thing? I see some non-Catholic friends happy that I’ve found a cohesive worldview, but they don’t see any reason why they should investigate such a thing. 20:30 – Is it objective grave matter for Catholics to practice yoga or transcendental meditation? 33:30 – Why do converts seeking annulments from marriages before their conversion have to go through that process? It seems like a barrier to evangelization — “Hey, you should be Catholic. But you might never be able to receive communion if you aren’t granted an annulment from a marriage you had before you were even Catholic.” 44:55 – Do you think the story about the woman with seven husbands that the Sadducees questioned Jesus about is the story of Tobit? 50:12 – I am theologically not committed. I see that Christianity seems evidence based, but I don’t feel drawn to it. Any thoughts?

“What would it take for Catholics and Orthodox to reunite?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of Christian unity, while also addressing varied topics such as the validity of a non-Catholic marriage without civil ceremony, the necessity of confession after salvation, and the differences in gospel accounts of the women at the tomb. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:35 – What would it take for the Catholics and Orthodox to reunite? 14:48 – Is my mom’s marriage valid? She and he are non-Catholic but baptized. She didn’t get civilly married, but it was a public ceremony with witnesses. Both were married before, but those previous spouses have died. 18:30 – I was told that once you are saved there is no need for confession. How does a Catholic respond to that? 29:29 – I heard a Protestant say we have the same spirit that raised Lazarus from the dead. Is that true? 35:00 – Why do the four gospels list different women at the tomb? 40:16 – My wife and I are converts. We were non-Catholics when we married. It was a non-Church ceremony at an embassy. There were not vows. But it was a legal marriage. Are we married in the Church? Do we need to have it convalidated? 47:27 – Does the Church infallibly teach that Mary had no actual sin? 51:05 – Could you comment on how the prodigal son narrative relates to the act of confession? Is this parable an example of confession?

“Did Mary and Joseph doubt Jesus?” This question leads to a discussion about their understanding of His identity, especially during the incident at the temple. Other topics include the appropriateness of repeating prayers for healing, navigating faith in the context of divorce, and clarifying the status of the Ethiopian Bible. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:10 – Did Mary and Joseph not trust or know who Jesus was by the time they lost him at the temple? 14:15 – Is it wrong to repeat prayers? For example, to ask many times for a sick friend to be healed? 28:40 – I’m a godparent to a child in a family where the husband and wife are divorcing. 36:50 – What is the status of the Ethiopian Bible? Is it considered inspired? 44:30 – I was born and raised Catholic and am starting to get back into it. My wife was raised non-Catholic and just converted. In OCIA we got a lot of answers that contradicted Church teaching. Different people are giving different answers that contradict. How do I know what is right?

“How do we reconcile the existence of evil with a good God?” This question opens a discussion that also touches on the Catholic understanding of the afterlife, the concept of purgatory, and how Catholics should approach salvation with non-Catholics. Each topic invites a deeper exploration of faith and doctrine within the Catholic tradition. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:00 – How do we reconcile the existence of evil with a good God? 10:25 – What is the Catholic understanding of the afterlife? 15:50 – Can you explain the concept of purgatory? 22:10 – How should Catholics approach the topic of salvation with non-Catholics? 30:45 – What role does faith play in the life of a Catholic? 39:12 – How can we better understand the Trinity? 45:30 – What is the significance of the Eucharist in Catholic worship? 54:00 – How do we respond to the claim that the Catholic Church is not the original church?

“Do Catholics and Mormons worship the same God?” This question opens a discussion on the fundamental differences in how each faith views God. Additional topics include the reasons behind God’s silence for two millennia, the challenges faced by former satanists in addressing Mormon beliefs, and the complexities of LDS doctrines and their changes over time. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:15 – What’s the difference in how Catholics and Mormons view God? 12:51 – My father is not baptized but is open to dialogue. His best friend is Mormon so he is always listening to these perspectives. He asked, Why hasn’t God spoken to his people directly for two-thousand years? 18:17 – I’m a former satanist and a new Catholic. How do I help persuade people from not going down the path of Mormonism? 30:17 – According to the LDS who arranges who gets what planet? How do they justify changing doctrines? 37:06 – I’ve heard that Joseph Smith had performed miracles. Is there any evidence of this? 48:21 – I was born and raised Catholic. I was Mormon for 45 years and am now attending a Catholic church. How can you know that the early church had it right?

“What can angels do for us?” This question opens a discussion on the role of angels in our daily lives, including how they might help us feel more connected to our guardian angels. Other topics include the nature of angelic communication with the deceased, the reasons behind God’s creation of angels, and the intriguing portrayal of angels in art versus scripture. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:10 – What Can Angels Do in our Daily Lives? 12:55 – My grandparents died in 2006. Can my grandparents communicate with me through angels? SENDS Secrets from heaven. 17:59 – How can you feel more connected to your guardian angel? 22:05 – Do we know why God created angels? 29:39 – Do angels give grace, or help in distributing graces? 33:32 – Can you comment on why angels are portrayed in art as little babies with wings, but in the Bible they seem like they would actually be frightening? 36:14 – Can you comment on the angels’ reaction in the book of Job? 44:35 – When we say the prayer to our guardian angel, ever this day be “at my side,” what does that really mean since angels are in heaven? 48:20 – How do our guardian angels protect us? The way the Bible describes them it seems like they would be too big. 50:04 – What do I call my guardian angel? 51:52 – Aquinas says angels don’t know your thoughts. If that is true then how do guardian angels know what you are thinking?

“Can we have absolute assurance of salvation?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of faith and security in salvation. Other topics include responding to Southern Baptist views on the parable of Lazarus, the concerns of a Protestant considering OCIA, and strategies for evangelizing Muslims. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – Can We Have Absolute Assurance of Salvation? 12:38 – How do you respond to a Southern Baptist that denies the story of the Lazarus and rich man establishes the immediate judgement? 20:13 – I’m protestant and considering OCIA but I hesitate on the rules that change in Catholics. How do we know rules won’t change in the future like attending Sunday mass, women veiling, etc.? 32:37 – Is it correct to say the Sadducees and Pharisees had a similar relationship as Catholics and Protestants. Is this true? 43:16 – How do we effectively evangelize Muslims especially when they come across as arrogant and even resort to using foul language? 50:30 – How do I better explain apologetics to a crowd that is not religious at work?

“How is the Mass a sacrifice if nothing seems to be sacrificed?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of the Mass, alongside inquiries about the practice of intinction in the U.S. and the reasons behind the removal of kneelers in some churches. Additional topics include the relationship between the Mass and Hebrews 10:14, and proper etiquette before Mass. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:40 – How is the Mass a Sacrifice if nothing seems to be sacrificed? 12:37 – How common is intinction practiced in the US? 15:11 – I’m not Catholic. Why did the Church take out kneelers? 23:26 – How does the Mass not contradict Hebrews 10:14? 33:03 – Is it licit to say, “my Lord and God” during the consecration? 41:19 – Is there proper etiquette for silence prior to mass? 44:58 – I am a protestant and I would like to understand the order of the mass. Could you help me make it understandable? 50:25 – When did priests start wearing vestments? 52:03 – Why do the priests stay away from telling people what they need to do at home during the homily?

“How do you reach young people online and teach faith?” This question opens a discussion on effective strategies for engaging youth in their faith journey. Additional topics include addressing concerns about pre-marital sex with college students and the challenges faced by religious educators in reaching teens. The conversation also touches on teaching methods for confirmation classes and engaging late teens exploring Catholicism. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:22 – How do you reach young people online to help them encounter Christ offline? 07:56 – How do I explain to my niece who is in college who only sees the problem with pre-marital sex the potential of getting pregnant even though she was raised Catholic? 15:21 – I’m a religious educator for teens and I feel like I don’t have enough resources to reach them. What are your thoughts? 29:11 – I’m a catechist. Is it unrealistic to only teach in a classroom setting for 11–17-year-olds? 39:53 – I’m a confirmation teacher. How do I get them to talk? 47:48 – I’m a catechist and am getting a lot of late teens and early 20’s who want to explore Catholicism but have no background in faith. Where do you recommend I begin with them?

“Are aborted babies doomed to hell?” This question leads to a discussion on the Church’s teachings regarding the fate of aborted infants. Additionally, the conversation touches on whether the magisterium can override scripture and how to engage with a Protestant partner about differing interpretations of faith. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:38 – Does the Church teach that aborted babies are doomed to hell? 19:02 – Can the magisterium override scripture? 30:55 – What are your thoughts on when conversing with a protestant who adheres to sola scriptura about pointing out how they should accept one’s interpretation of scripture since they don’t accept any other authority? 42:13 – I’m protestant dating a Catholic. I found out that her understanding of Catholicism is lacking. How do I talk to her and correct her without sounding condescending? 50:00 – If we were meant for the afterlife, how come we all fight death?

“How can I help my friend consider Catholicism?” This question opens a discussion on various approaches to sharing faith, including how to engage with family members who oppose conversion. Other topics include the Church’s evolving stance on women and birth control, the moral implications of supporting war, and addressing doubts about salvation among non-Catholic friends. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:11 – How do you talk to a parent or sibling who is strongly opposed to one’s desires to become Catholic? 20:28 – There’s evidence that the Church position on women has changed over the years. Doesn’t allow birth control because of natural law, vs the subjugation of women being a part of natural law? The Church’s denial of birth control contradicts the church’s rejection of the subjugation of women. 28:42 – I’m a veteran. Is it a mortal sin to support a war? 32:29 – I’m a convert. My wife has no interest. How can I gently nudge her? 43:14 – My non-Catholic friend said she says a lot of division among Catholic influencers online especially about salvation. This has caused her to doubt and would like clarification on exactly what the Church teaches on salvation? How can I help her consider Catholicism? 50:11 – My friend is considering Catholicism but his big hang up is female altar servers. He says it’s a rupture from tradition. How can I help guide him?

“How Do I Witness to Others?” This question leads to a discussion about the importance of faith in the family when considering baptism. Other topics include effective ways for new Catholics to witness to non-Catholics and a hopeful interpretation of Jesus’ teaching on marriage in heaven. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:05 – I always believed baptizing a baby should be immediate. I’ve recently heard that if the family isn’t practicing the faith, they maybe shouldn’t. Is this true? 18:10 – I’m a new Catholic. What is the best way to witness others, especially non-Catholic? 40:00 – We know Jesus said there is no marriage in heaven. How do we look at this passage with optimism?

“Is infant baptism necessary?” This question leads to a concise defense of the practice, addressing its theological significance. Additionally, the discussion covers the morality of eating meat and examines whether Judas’s actions challenge the concept of eternal security. The episode also delves into the fate of souls grappling with the distinction between venial and mortal sins. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:55 – What’s the one minute defense for infant baptism? 09:18 – Why is it morally okay to eat meat? 17:46 – Does Judas disprove once saved always saved? 36:50 – What happens to the soul of a person who thinks they commit a venial sin but is actually a mortal sin?

“What is the gift of tongues?” This question opens a discussion on the Catholic understanding of this spiritual phenomenon. Additionally, the conversation touches on why polygamy may not serve as a strong apologetical argument for Mormons, and clarifies the mention of two Zechariahs in the Old Testament during a debate. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 07:00 – What is the Catholic understanding of the gift of tongues? 19:28 – Why wouldn’t polygamy be a good apologetical argument towards mormons if Jesus himself restored marriage towards its original intention? 36:33 – You mentioned 2 Zechariahs in the OT. Can you explain what you meant in your debate? 48:22 – Who is Jesus referring to when he tells Peter, do you love me more than these?

“What’s the one-minute defense for the papacy?” This question sets the stage for a discussion that also addresses the strongest arguments for infant baptism, the reasons behind the anti-Catholic stance of Seventh Day Adventists, and how to discern the presence of the Holy Spirit in someone’s life. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:44 – What’s the one-minute defense for the papacy? 10:30 – What are the strongest arguments to convince someone to baptize their baby? 18:05 – Why are Seventh Day Adventist so Anti-Catholic? 36:20 – How do we know when someone has the Holy Spirit?

“Are there doctrinal differences on the Septuagint?” This question leads to a discussion on the major distinctions between Protestant and Catholic views, particularly regarding the seven additional books. The conversation also touches on the moral implications of generative AI, the Church’s response to potential ex-cathedra proclamations, and the interpretation of visions experienced during psychedelic ceremonies. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:40 – Are there any major doctrinal differences between Protestants and Catholics in regards to the Septuagint apart from the 7 books? 14:44 – What are the moral implications of using generative AI? Where is the line on when it’s sinful? 36:50 – My protestant friend asked me this: what would happen if the pope tried to proclaim ex-cathedra something contrary to Church teaching? Does the Church have a contingency plan? 47:24 – What do we make of people who have visions on psychedelics who use them as a spiritual ceremony?

“Do dinosaurs create a problem for Catholic beliefs?” This question opens a discussion on the intersection of faith and science, while also addressing the Catholic position on Revelation and the end times. Additionally, the conversation touches on how to respond to those who dismiss the importance of detailed faith discussions and the claims of personal apostolic authority. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 08:40 – Do dinosaurs create a problem for Catholic beliefs? 21:34 – What is the Catholic position on Revelation and the end times? 39:49 – How do I respond to people who think it’s not important to go into the details of the faith? They think it’s irrelevant. 50:33 – How do I respond to my dad who believes he has apostolic authority because he says he follows the bible?

“What verses prove Peter was the Pope?” This question opens a discussion on the biblical foundations of papal authority, including key verses that support this claim. Other topics addressed include the significance of Jesus changing Peter’s name, the perpetual nature of the Petrine office, and how to approach conversations about Catholicism. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:26 – What Bible Verses Best Support that Peter was the Pope? 24:45 – Why did Jesus Change Peter’s name? 29:15 – How do we know the Petrine office is perpetual? 36:27 – Are the apostles also bishops and how does the petrine ministry affect this? 42:46 – I’ve been Christian for a year. How do I tell my protestant girlfriend that I live with that I’m interested in Catholicism and Orthodoxy? 49:45 – Do we see anywhere in the bible where Peter exercises his authority?

“Does anxiety mean I’m a bad Christian?” This question opens a discussion on the true causes of anxiety, challenging common misconceptions. Other topics include the struggle of trusting God amidst worry, the appropriateness of seeking help for anxiety, and effective therapeutic approaches for childhood wounds. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:55 – Most people think that anxiety comes from worrying about problems, but you say that isn’t the case. What IS the real cause of anxiety? 06:14 – Does having anxiety mean that I don’t trust God enough (or am a bad Christian)? 08:30 – I keep giving a particular situation to God, but I still keep thinking/worrying about it. What am I doing wrong? 10:35 – Am I somehow letting God down by seeking help for anxiety? What kind of help works best (counseling? medication?) 15:25 – When it comes to childhood wounds and overcoming them. What do you recommend in terms of therapy that would be effective? 19:17 – I have a lot of anxiety due to issues with my marriage and need guidance on how to overcome it. 21:32 – My husband has cancer and has caused so much anxiety. I went on a Catholic mindfulness retreat and helped so much. And communicating and praying with loved ones has helped. 29:25 – My 10-year-old has anxiety. How can I help him? 34:50 – My adult children are starting to take on leadership in our family business and are basically cutting me out. How do I overcome this anxiety and tension that’s building? 41:05 – I’m dealing with brain damage and anxiety. How do I deal with anxiety about going to confession? 45:41 – What’s the difference between secular counseling and Catholic counseling? 50:06 – How do people learn to deal with anxiety if there is no counselor?

“Did God harden Pharaoh’s heart?” This question opens a discussion on divine sovereignty and free will, alongside inquiries about the ownership of cattle by Israelites during the plagues, the significance of myrrh given to Jesus, and the meaning behind God’s rest on the Sabbath. Each topic invites a deeper understanding of faith and scripture. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:32 – Ex 9. Regarding the 5th plague and the cattle dying. It says that the Israelites had cattle. Were slaves allowed to own cattle? 07:21 – Regarding the Myrrh given to Jesus by the Magi. Do we have any evidence that this was more than just embalming material for death but rather something tied to the priesthood? 15:08 – Regarding the sabbath. Why did God need to rest on the last day if he doesn’t get tired? 22:59 – Did God take away the pharaoh’s free will when he hardened his heart in Exodus 21? 29:44 – Who did God marry at the wedding at Cana? Why are there 14 stations of the cross? 44:25 – The first will be last and last will be first. Does that mean everyone will go to heaven? 49:10 – Jesus told his disciples his Father’s house has many rooms. What does that mean? 51:45 – What was the relationship God had with the Israelites and how did Jesus dying for our sins change that? What exactly changed for humans?

“Why did God call the Hebrews to slaughter the Canaanites?” This question opens a discussion on divine judgment and love, addressing complex themes in Scripture. Other topics include God’s love for all people, the Israelites’ understanding of judgment and purgatory, and the significance of wave offerings in Exodus and Leviticus. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:45 – Why did God call the Hebrews to slaughter the Canaanites? 18:11 – Is there anywhere in the bible that can lead us to believe that God loves all people in hell? 29:21 – Since the Israelites did not have a clear sense of what the afterlife was like, Do they have any written documentation of their understanding of the particular judgement, final judgement and purgatory? 40:51 – In Exodus and Leviticus they talk about doing a wave offering but don’t explain what that is. What is it? 48:16 – How do we show in the OT that the 3 days of Jesus were meant to be figurative not literal 3 days apart from the story of Jonah? 51:24 – Jesus Said I am the way, truth and life. Why do we have to believe that?

“Do Catholics treat Mary like a God?” This question opens a discussion on the role of Mary in Catholicism, addressing misconceptions about worship. The conversation also touches on whether Mary guided the writing of the Gospel of John and clarifies how Catholics view her as the New Eve, alongside the significance of Marian apparitions and the practice of praying to her. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:00 – Do Catholics treat Mary like a God? 10:35 – Was Mary the guide for the writing of the Gospel of John? 14:00 – How do I get across that Catholics don’t worship Mary, and that this is not a threat? 18:47 – Can you explain Mary as the new Eve? 36:19 – Why does William believe there has been so many Marian apparitions and not others? 43:13 – There is not one example in the Bible to pray to Mary, so why do we pray to Mary? Abraham is called the father of faith and not even he has an example of people praying to him.

“What convinced Tim to leave Evangelicalism?” Tim shares his personal journey and the theological insights that shaped his faith transition. The discussion also touches on the significance of penance in Catholic practice and addresses the nature of the Eucharist, including how it retains its breadlike form while being the body and blood of Christ. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:30 – What Convinced Tim to Leave Evangelicalism? 12:54 – Why do Catholics practice of penance? 28:50 – How can we call the Eucharist the body and blood when it keeps the breadlike form? 32:42 – How do you approach the question, “what is the church” with scripture? 39:28 – How can I respond to Hebrew 4 verse 16, “We can boldly approach the throne of God” as a refute against intercessory prayers?

“Is being unmarried a call to priesthood?” This question opens a discussion on the relationship between personal vocation and divine calling, while also addressing how to explain the Rosary to Protestants and the nature of purgatory. Other topics include principles for giving to the poor and the implications of Vatican II’s teachings on interfaith worship. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:27 – I’m 32 and unmarried. Is this a sign I’m called to priesthood? Married life is still preferable, but I believe whether I’m a priest or married is up to God, not me. 08:35 – How do I explain and defend the Rosary to Protestants? 18:50 – Why isn’t purgatory instant? Why does it need to exist in general? 23:35 – Should we give money to people living on the streets? What’s a good general principle for giving to the poor? 37:32 – Can you explain Vatican II’s teaching that we worship the same God as Jews and Muslims? It seems anti-trinitarian to me. 49:15 – How do you balance calling out heresy with being kind to your opponent in debate? When are you more direct vs. more charitable? 53:30 – Responding to an atheist dilemma. Is Jesus’ sacrifice really a “Sacrifice” at all if he knew he was coming back? How do I respond to this?

“Are Catholics modern-day Pharisees?” This question opens a discussion on the role of tradition and faith in Catholicism. The conversation also touches on reasonable expectations for children at Mass, responses to LDS beliefs about marriage in heaven, and the significance of the Eucharist in receiving grace. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:55 – Are Catholics modern-day pharisees? 18:13 – What are reasonable expectations for children at Mass? 23:51 – How to respond to LDS members who believe they are still married in heaven? 29:30 – Do Protestants worship God even though they do not have the Eucharist? 34:45 – How exactly does the Eucharist give us Grace? 47:21 – Can Catholics and Mormons pray together? And how do I explain the intercession of Mary and the Saints?

“What are the Parameters for Papal Infallibility?” This question opens a discussion on the true nature of the Eucharist, while also addressing Mary’s age at the Annunciation, the parameters of Papal Infallibility, and the role of saints in intercession. These topics highlight the rich tapestry of Catholic belief and practice. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:56 – What if the Eucharist is just a symbol? 14:12 – What age was Mary at the Annunciation? 18:01 – What are the parameters for Papal Infallibility? 29:08 – How do I navigate the relationship with my daughter to teach my granddaughter the Faith? 37:48 – Why would I have a saint or Mary intercede for me when I can go directly to God with my prayers? 47:42 – Why does the church not label Jews, Muslims, and Protestants heretics?

“Is the Assumption of Mary in Scripture?” This question leads to a discussion on the biblical basis for Mary’s Assumption, alongside other topics such as the differing beliefs about the Eucharist between Catholics and Protestants, and the role of priests in forgiving sins. The conversation also touches on the implications of being baptized Catholic and raised in a different faith. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 20:15 – Is the Assumption of Mary discussed in scripture? 29:13 – If the Eucharist is the body and blood of Christ for Catholics why is it not the same for protestants? 41:04 – I was baptized Catholic as an infant but raised in the Baptist church, am I Catholic? 46:14 – Why do Catholics believe that priests can forgive sins? 51:11 – What is the Dogma of the Assumption?

“Do Catholics really eat God?” This question delves into the belief in the Eucharist and its significance in Catholic faith. The discussion also touches on the changes brought by Vatican II, the appropriateness of addressing minor issues with a visiting priest, and the role of personal expressions during Mass for those from different backgrounds. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 17:31 – Do Catholics really believe that they are eating God literally? 31:33 – Why did we have the change of Vatican II? 44:04 – Should I bring up something minor about a visiting priest that isn’t in the rubric of the Mass? 49:29 – I am coming from a protestant background that included raising our hands often. Would some be inappropriate for the Mass? 53:54 – Why do we say Mary “merited to bear” Jesus in Regina Caeli when it was God’s doing?

“How can I heal a strained relationship?” This episode addresses practical steps for mending relationships, including four tips for healing and insights on reconciling childhood trauma. Additionally, the discussion touches on honoring parents as a Catholic and navigating complex family dynamics after forgiveness. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:18 – What are four tips for healing a strained relationship? 12:03 – How do you reconcile childhood trauma? 15:42 – Listen, Lead, Love, Let go. 18:01 – Resentment 20:42 – How can I honor my parents now that I am a Catholic? 33:59 – I have forgiven my family for various things, but my wife hasn’t. I have let it go, but it is causing strain. 43:18 – I have had a hurt relationship; I was married outside the church in an abusive relationship. I am now married in the church, but I still feel like I need healing. (Guidance) 46:19 – My father passed away, my mom is giving the family house to my brother when it was promised to me. How can I respond to this best? 52:31 – To what degree to talk about something controversial or let it go if we know that it will cause someone to be upset?

Questions Covered: 05:35 – Why are the 10 Commandments different for Catholics and Protestants? 14:46 – Why does the Church take the transubstantiation view over the consubstantiation view? 20:52 – How does the Church balance orthodoxy and heterodoxy with everything going on? 25:26 – Is it possible for a laicized priest to ever be reinstated? 29:00 – Under what circumstances does a priest allow a non-Catholic to participate in the Eucharist? 36:03 – Is there any room in Catholicism for being a millenialist? 42:10 – Who took over after Peter? 51:37 – Do I really need to seek out indulgences?

Questions Covered: 03:18 – What is Ecumenism? 06:38 – Why did Mary have to be immaculately conceived? 14:45 – Does Galatians 1:8 talk about the apostles failing to pass on the gospel? 17:45 – Why is there a separation of church and state? 25:06 – Is sacramental marriage possible without a civil marriage? 29:07 – How do I discern the papacy claims on both the Catholic and Orthodox sides? 44:33 – What are the last two declared infallible doctrines of the Catholic Church? 46:06 – Would Christotokos be more correct than Theotokos? 50:26 – Why do people think the Church was started in the 300s?

“Is the Road to Emmaus the First Mass?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of the Emmaus encounter, while also addressing when the first Mass after the resurrection occurred and the Catholic understanding of the order of Melchizedek. Additional topics include the appropriateness of receiving communion in the hand and the history of the doxology. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – When was the first mass after the resurrection? 07:21 – I know there is one sacrifice but is it one or many offerings? 11:50 – What is the catholic view, if there is a view, on the order of melchizedek? Is there an accepted catholic teaching? 14:50 – Is it appropriate to receive communion on the hand? 17:30 – What’s the history or background of the doxology? 20:10 – What do the Hanc Igitur and communicantes mean in the roman canon and what do they mean during easter? 23:45 – Was the Road to Emmaus the First mass or was the last supper the first mass? 28:49 – How do I approach someone who receives communion who you know shouldn’t? Where in the bible can I show people to encourage them to go to mass every Sunday? 37:40 – My friend loudly says ‘my Lord and my God’ during the consecration. Is this appropriate? 42:10 – Did Cy blow it by saying the sorrowful mysteries during the Easter octave? 46:10 – Is it true to say everything in the Church builds towards the Mass? 49:15 – Does Divine Mercy Sunday count as to fulfill the obligation since it’s later in the day?

“Can God force you to be a priest?” This question opens a discussion on vocation and discernment, addressing the complexities of divine calling. Other topics include how individuals can establish their own religious orders, the challenges of pursuing a diaconate while managing military commitments, and the implications of missing one’s vocation. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:20 – Can God force me to be a priest? 10:48 – If someone has a call to religious life, how do people go about creating their own convents and religious orders? 16:20 – I feel a call to the diaconate. I’m military and the classes conflict with my time. How much effort should I put into doing this? Should I talk to my bishop about it? 20:42 – What if you miss your vocation? 25:12 – What is a vocation? 29:19 – I feel a call to disciple others but am having a hard time figuring out what that looks like. What advice do you have? 35:30 – I’m a revert and am 37. Is it too late for me to discern a vocation? 40:10 – If a person who never marries or becomes a priest can have an equally fulfilling life, aren’t they missing something? 43:35 – Why do seminaries require so much education for people to just be priests and not bishops? 46:40 – What is the ministry of acolyte? Is it just an adult altar boy or is it deeper than that? 49:23 – I am a dedicated single man and find my life very fulfilling. 51:35 – I’m Protestant. Why is celibacy a requisite for the priesthood?

“Iceland Priest Faces Jail Threat for saying LGBT Identifying People Can Be Chaste” This episode presents a discussion on the ongoing celebration of Easter and the implications of a priest in Iceland facing jail for his views on chastity. The episode also touches on the legacy of Paul Ehrlich, author of “The Population Bomb,” and the concept of just war, showcasing a range of important topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:15 – Keeping up celebration of Easter 08:11 – Iceland Priest faces jail threat for saying LGBT people can be chaste 29:05 – Death of Paul Ehrlich, author of The Population Bomb 47:00 – Just war

The conversation touches on Peter Thiel’s views regarding the Antichrist and examines recent New York Times reports on adult Catholic converts, highlighting the diverse experiences within the Church today. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:22 – Peter Thiel and the anti-Christ 40:48 – New York Times reports on adult Catholic converts

“Were the authors of the Gospels the apostles, specifically Matthew?” This question opens a discussion on the authorship of the Gospels, while also addressing varied topics such as overcoming objections to confession from family, the Church’s stance on the death penalty, and advice for presenting the case for the Eucharist to friends. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:00 – Were the Authors of the gospels the apostles, specifically Matthew? 05:20 – I’m a convert. How do I overcome my parents’ objection to confession? 18:51 – The CCC 2267 goes against the death penalty but the bible says it’s permitted. Why is the Church trying to get rid of it? 23:45 – What advice would you have for my son who is presenting the case for the eucharist to his friends, some of whom are protestant? 33:54 – excluding papal infallibility, what’s the possibility for a pope to lead his people into theological error? 41:20 – How does it work for the accidents of the eucharist still being of bread? 46:03 – Is the use of contraception allowed in certain circumstances?

“What if Paul said no to God?” This question opens a discussion on the implications of free will in faith, while also addressing the respect the laity owes to Church hierarchy and the Church’s stance on private revelations after Jesus. Other topics include the teachings on the road to Emmaus and the sin of presumption, showcasing a variety of theological inquiries. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:50 – What if Paul said no to God? 12:10 – How much respect and reverence does the laity owe to the hierarchy? Do we have to kiss their ring etc.? 20:52 – If the Catechism says there is no further revelation after Jesus, why does the Church still accept private revelation that came later? 32:22 – On the road to Emmaus, was Jesus teaching something new that they didn’t know? 40:11 – What is the sin of presumption? 46:15 – What does the Church say about the medical treatment of ectopic pregnancies? 52:00 – Were the Authors of the gospels the apostles, specifically Matthew?

How many messianic prophecies are found in Scripture, and how do they point to Jesus? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists explore the Old Testament foundations of the Messiah and how Jesus fulfills them. They discuss the most important messianic texts and passages, address whether people in Jesus’ time were sincerely seeking the Messiah, and examine common objections—such as why Jesus didn’t immediately bring universal peace. The conversation also explains why the apostles expected a conquering king, the difference between “Messiah” and “Lord,” and whether Jesus’ miracles would have been recognized as messianic signs. A clear and compelling look at how Scripture reveals Jesus as the promised Messiah. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:29 – How many messianic prophecies are in scripture?   10:20 – Are the people questioning Jesus sincerely trying to figure out if Jesus is the Messiah?   15:30 – What are the main messianic texts?   18:45 – What are some of the main messianic passages?   24:20 – What do you find to be the most compelling messianic prophecy?   31:46 – Objection: Jesus wasn’t the Messiah because he didn’t usher in eternal peace.   37:11 – Why did the apostles keep expecting Jesus to be the conquering king messiah?   46:10 – What’s the difference between messiah and lord?   53:08 – Would people have recognized something messianic about Jesus’ healings? 

How many times did Jesus appear after His Resurrection—and where did these appearances take place? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists walk through the key post-Resurrection appearances of Christ, from the Upper Room to the road to Emmaus and beyond. They explain what happened during the 40 days leading up to the Ascension, the significance of Jesus appearing to the apostles, and how these encounters strengthen the case for the Resurrection. The discussion also covers the Ascension from the Mount of Olives and Christ’s later appearance to St. Paul on the road to Damascus. A clear and compelling look at one of the most important periods in Christian history. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:45 – In the Bible, how many times did Jesus appear between the Resurrection and the Ascension?  16:55 – Where did he physically appear during the 40 days?  29:00 – What happened when he appeared in the Upper Room?  36:12 – Mount of Olives and the Ascension.  44:20 – Appearing to Paul on the Road to Damascus. 

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live Classics, Fr. Hugh Barbour breaks down the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross with a focus on the Precious Blood of Jesus. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live Classics, Fr. Paul Check breaks down the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com

“How can I believe in the Trinity?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of faith, including concerns about conversion from Protestantism and the potential conflict with family beliefs. Other topics include the challenges of Catholic practices versus dogma and the significance of adoration in the conversion process. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 07:28 – I need help believing in the Trinity. 18:44 – I was raised Protestant and my parents are anti-Catholic. Would it be dishonoring my parents to convert? 29:02 – I’m not Catholic because of how Catholicism is practiced and not necessarily about dogma. 35:07 – My one hang up to convert is adoration. 50:07 – Is there any connection between Matthew 7:24-27 and Matthew 16:18?

“Can prayer to saints be justified?” This question opens a discussion on the role of saints in Catholicism, addressing concerns about mediation and the nature of prayer. Other topics include skepticism about the credibility of the Gospels and the application of indulgences, highlighting the diverse perspectives on these theological issues. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 2:00 – I’m not Catholic because I think Joe changes the gospels for his own gain and reduces the credibility of the real gospel. 20:29 – I think prayer to saints violates the idea that Jesus is the one mediator. 42:12 – I don’t believe in indulgences specifically how they can be applied to others.

“How can I respond to Protestant objections about Scripture?” This episode addresses this question while also tackling varied topics such as how to engage with a friend’s doubts about the resurrection, responding to claims about dietary restrictions from non-Catholic Bible studies, and discussing the significance of the Deuterocanonical books. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – I feel like Catholics come across as first century historians about a God that wants nothing to do with you. 12:20 – My friend’s dad doesn’t believe Jesus really rose from the dead. How can I object to his premise? 21:35 – I have a relative who is going to a non-Catholic bible study. They were told that they are not supposed to eat pork or else they will be condemned. How do I respond? 28:49 – What is your response to protestants who reject the seven extra books we have? 39:40 – Do Catholics believe that there is no more procreation in the afterlife? 45:41 – Why are Holy Thursday and Good Friday not considered holy days of obligation? 47:51 – My protestant friend said that they reject the Deuterocanon because they came in at a time where no new prophecies would come. How do I respond to that?

“Why does God call sinners to grace and not the damned?” This question raises important theological discussions about divine mercy and justice. Other topics addressed include how Catholics believe they can attain heaven, the procession of the Holy Spirit, and the significance of choosing a saint’s name for baptism. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:20 – Catholicism doesn’t make sense to me because it says God moves a sinner to repentance by grace and yet he doesn’t do that for the damned. If God were all-loving, then wouldn’t he move the damned to repentance and forgive them? 13:28 – How do Catholics make it to heaven? 16:50 – Why do we say the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and Son and why do the Orthodox disagree? 22:44 – If this is the Church Jesus founded, how is it that the Church has done so much evil in Canada, the crusades? 45:33 – I’m getting baptized this Saturday. What is the meaning of picking a saint’s name for baptism? 52:30 – Why go to general confession and why repeatedly confess the same sins over and over again?

“What is our authority structure?” This question leads to a discussion on the implications of Sola Scriptura and how Catholics understand authority through both Tradition and Scripture. Other topics include how Catholics respond to 2 Timothy’s assertion about Scripture’s profitability and the significance of 1 Timothy 3:15 regarding the Church as the pillar and foundation of truth. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:33 – If Sola Scriptura is Wrong, Then what does our authority structure look like? 13:54 – How do Catholics refute protestant understanding of 2 Tim, All scripture is profitable. 21:00 – 1 Tim 3:15 says the Church is the pillar and foundation. How do protestants get around that scripture? 29:33 – I think another evidence for being against sola scriptura is Satan using scripture to tempt Jesus. What are your thoughts on that? 32:35 – What exactly is Tradition? 42:14 – How do you deal with the objection from protestants about wisdom and not being in their canon but only accept Sola Scriptura?

“How do you talk about chastity to an indifferent generation?” This question opens a discussion on the challenges of conveying the importance of chastity today. Other topics include seeking intimacy without lust in relationships, addressing concerns about the Church’s stance on sexism, and offering guidance to a daughter navigating attraction in dating. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:40 – How do you talk about chastity to an indifferent generation? 13:13 – I have been intimate with my girlfriend in an inappropriate way. How do I seek intimacy with her without lusting over her body? 16:30 – In light of the scriptures of the OT. How would you respond that the Church is not sexist? 29:24 – What words of wisdom could I offer to my 26-year-old daughter who is dating someone she is not physically attracted to because she is afraid, she can’t find any nice guys? 34:15 – At what point is pornography use habitual, making it a venial sin and not a mortal sin? 41:21 – Why doesn’t the Church attack the American sexual revolution? If they are the enemy why not attack them to destroy it?

“Is it a sin to marry outside your faith?” This question opens a discussion on the nuances of faith and relationships, including interpretations of 2 Corinthians and the concept of being unequally yoked. Other topics addressed include the implications of Matthew 7:6 on sharing scripture, the nature of particular judgment, and the meaning of being poor in spirit. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:45 – When discussing 2 Corinthians where Paul mentions not being unequally yoked, my protestant friend argued is it a sin to marry outside your own faith. I argue that Paul was giving his own opinion and not giving a commandment from God. Is this a proper response? 13:33 – Matthew 7:6 says don’t throw pearls to swine. Would giving bibles to the homeless be throwing pearls to swine? 18:30 – How would I prove biblically that there is a particular judgement and not a resting in Christ until the final judgement? Do people go to Hades now or do they go to Gehenna? 37:05 – How do Catholics combat free grace theology using scripture? 45:38 – In John 21:15 Jesus says to Peter, “do you love me more than these?” Who are “these”? 48:30 – At the end of Acts, Paul was told he didn’t do anything wrong. Why then was Paul beheaded? 53:01 – What does it mean to be poor in spirit?

“Did Jesus use a racial slur against the woman in Mt. 15:26?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of scripture interpretation. Other topics include the Catholic understanding of faith and works as discussed by Paul, and how to reconcile 2 Corinthians 5:8 with the doctrine of purgatory, showcasing a range of theological inquiries. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:44 – Did Jesus use a racial slur against the woman in Mt. 15:26? 15:23 – How do Catholics understand when Paul says faith apart from works of the law? 29:30 – Jesus tells when we fast and pray we are to do things a certain way. Do we follow exactly what he says or do we follow how the Church tells us to? If the fasting is in quiet, how do we witness to people? 41:15 – How do we reconcile 2 Cor 5:8, to “be away from the body and at home with the Lord” with the doctrine of purgatory? 47:23 – Did St. Jerome change his mind on the Deuterocanon? 51:59 – I want to study more formally bible studies. What do you recommend one do or which programs to follow?

“Can a bishop ordain married men to the priesthood without the pope’s approval?” This question opens a discussion that also touches on whether Catholics and Muslims worship the same God, the appropriateness of performing marriages outside of church buildings, and the implications of changes in Mass prayers. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – Does a bishop have the authority to ordain married men to the priesthood without the popes approval? 11:20 – What do Catholics say about Muslims and Catholics worshipping the same God? 16:35 – Is a priest allowed to perform a marriage outside of a church building? 20:05 – Why did they drop the word “One” from the closing prayer at Mass? 24:05 – Our parish is adding an extra song after the consecration, and another one during the cleaning of the vessels. Is this proper? 33:15 – I’m an evangelical Protestant and I’m getting curious about Catholicism. How do I go about this without falling into error? 48:20 – What is the difference between the Anglican and Catholic views of the Eucharist? Is it efficacious to receive communion at a non-Catholic Church?  

“Is Catholicism a works-based salvation?” This question leads to a discussion on the nature of salvation in Catholicism, addressing concerns about the apostolic Church’s teachings. Other topics include the journey of someone in OCIA seeking clarity on salvation and guidance for those raised as Jehovah’s Witnesses looking to convert to Catholicism. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 08:15 – I believe in the apostolic Church and don’t think Catholicism holds to the original form. 28:45 – I’m in OCIA. How is Catholicism not a works-based salvation? 45:42 – I was raised JW. How and where do I start if I want to become Catholic?

“How do I introduce Jesus to Muslim and Jewish friends?” This question opens a discussion on effective ways to share faith across different beliefs. Additional topics include techniques for engaging with Muslims, addressing the question of God’s death, and explaining the rejection of the Quran. Each question offers valuable insights into interfaith dialogue and evangelization. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:40 – I’ve felt called to share my faith to non-Christians. How do I introduce Jesus to my Muslims and Jewish friends? 07:58 – What techniques do you employ when sharing the faith with Muslims? 14:25 – How do I answer the question, did God die? 19:41 – How can one lovingly explain why we reject the Quran and don’t accept Mohammed as a prophet? 29:15 – What’s the difference between the deity of Christ and Divinity of Christ? 33:16 – I have a Muslim best friend that I shared a lot with when I converted to Catholicism. What else can I do to evangelize her? 40:13 – Can Muslims who convert to Catholicism become priests, like when Anglican converts become priests? If so, what would you do with their wives? 44:37 – Why doesn’t Islam allow women to answer the call to prayer? Where do women get their religious training? 46:46 – I was told there was no evidence that Mohammed ever existed. Is this true? 47:56 – Why are the bishops quick to come to the defense of Muslims but Muslims are quick to be violent towards Christians?

“Do Catholics Worship the Same God as Muslims?” This question opens a discussion on the relationship between Catholicism and Islam, addressing key points such as the three essential things Catholics should know about Islam and how Muslims perceive salvation. The conversation also touches on whether Catholics and Muslims worship the same God and how interfaith marriages can work, particularly regarding baptism for children. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – Three things Catholics should know about Islam. 12:23 – How does someone know they are saved in Islam? Why does Islam reject the Trinity if they claim to worship the same God as Christians? 16:24 – How do we answer the question from Muslims, if we actually believe Jesus rose from the dead? 21:06 – Do Catholics worship the same God as Muslims? 29:00 – If a Muslim man can marry a Catholic woman, how do they support each other? Can their kids be baptized Catholic? 34:48 – How do we argue for the Trinity to our Muslim son-in-law? He says the Quran is more true to the original than the bible because there are so many versions of the bible. How do I respond? 43:52 – What are your thoughts on Zealot by Reza Aslen? What’s a contrary book that would debunk it? 47:04 – How do we respond when Muslims dismiss Mohammed consummating his marriage with a 9 year old by claiming Mary was only 14 when she was pregnant?

“How do I respond to once saved always saved?” This question opens a discussion on the nuances of salvation, including the belief that being born again and receiving the Holy Spirit occurs only once. Other topics include the appropriateness of receiving the anointing of the sick before baptism, the interpretation of 2 Timothy 3:16, and the implications of Lent practices for recent converts. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – My Baptist friend believes in once saved always saved. He said being born again only happens once, and you only receive the Holy Spirit once. How do I respond? 17:32 – I am going to be baptized in a couple weeks. My parish gives out anointing of the sick once a month, and I was told I could receive that before being baptized. But that seems off to me. 19:59 – 2 Tim 3:16 says all scriptures are Godly. Which scriptures are they talking about? The NIV? 24:00 – On the lying question, was it wrong for Catholic priests to issue baptismal certificates to Jews in WWII? 41:52 – Is it sinful to marry a Catholic man who has not been circumcised? 44:45 – My friend is a recent convert, but still questions a lot of things. He says he’s going to eat meat on Fridays of Lent. How can I help him understand this practice?

“How do we respond to sola scriptura?” This question opens a discussion on the challenges of infallible testimony in the context of biblical canon, particularly in light of Protestant perspectives. Other topics include the sacrament of anointing of the sick in Eastern and Roman Rite practices, the morality of lying, and the doctrine of eternal conscious torment. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 3:00 – Catholics often critique sola scriptura by saying it blocks a Protestant from having an infallible testimony upon which they can base their belief that the Bible consists of 66 books, nothing more and nothing less. But Protestants counter that Jesus often held the Jews accountable to their scriptures even though they didn’t have infallible declarations of their canon. How do we respond to that? 12:46 – I’m an Eastern Rite Catholic. Every year in Holy Week we receive the sacrament of the anointing of the sick. My Roman Rite friends have said if you can only receive it if you are seriously ill. They’ve also said it can wipe away mortal sin. But that is not my understanding. Which is true? 22:00 – How can there never be instances where lying is okay? 34:55 – I’m having trouble with the doctrine of eternal conscious torment. 45:53 – Why do we have to accept the teaching of the magisterium even when it’s not infallible? 52:23 – what do you think of equivocation?

“How can I heal my relationship with my son and forgive?” This episode addresses the complexities of forgiveness in parent-child dynamics, including what true forgiveness looks like and how to navigate growing apart in faith within a marriage. Other questions tackle concerns about rekindling friendships after returning to the Church and the challenges of maintaining relationships with family. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 13:50 – I grew up Catholic and went away from the Church for over a decade and am now coming back. My friend is a devout Catholic and I’m worried I’ll sabotage our relationship by putting him on a pedestal. 18:27 – What exactly is forgiveness, and what does that look like in a parent-child relationship? 31:35 – What if my wife and I are growing apart because I am growing in my faith and she is not? Is that repairable? 40:00 – I call to wish my grandchildren a happy birthday but my son just hangs up on me. How can I heal the relationship with my son? 43:14 – How do I know if I have really forgiven someone?

“Can Catholics Believe in Young Earth Creationism?” This question opens a discussion on the relationship between faith and science, addressing topics such as the role of God in holding atoms together, the balance between atomism and Aristotelianism, and the implications of biblical statements on creation. Other questions touch on the nature of infinity and eternity, as well as the age of the earth from a Catholic perspective. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 12:05 – It seems to me that modern science substituted mathematics for formal cause. Do you have thoughts on that? 21:02 – I was taught that with atoms, it is somewhat inexplicable how they are held together since the protons naturally repel. In bible study I was taught that the only explanation is that God holds it together. Is this correct? 30:05 – If atomism is too bottom-up, is aristotelianism too top down? 36:28 – How do infinity and eternity go together? 40:35 – Have you read Ed Feser’s The Last Superstition and what do you think of it? 42:30 – Who came up with that time could somehow be subject to gravity? Is that for real? That seems so off to me. 45:00 – The bible says “let there be light” and that was the beginning. I think that proves that there was a beginning. 48:33 – I’m a convert and had been taught creationism my whole life. How do Catholics view the age of the earth?

“Where Is Purgatory in the Bible?” This question opens a discussion about the biblical basis for purgatory, addressing concerns from those who struggle with its concept. Other topics include the role of confession and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, as well as guidance for those considering a return to the Catholic faith. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – I’m not Catholic because I don’t understand purgatory. 29:04 – I left Catholicism, I’m Baptist and don’t really go to church anymore but still follow Jesus. I think we should confess directly to God and not have to go through a priest. 43:09 – I work with a dispensationalist. I want to talk to her about the Old Testament prophecies but before I do, I would like to know, were all the prophecies fulfilled? 49:17 – My children are no longer practicing Catholics. They were never confirmed. If they were to return, what would they have to do? 53:08 – I’m on my way to becoming Catholic. How do I answer the Protestant objection that Catholics have no infallible list of infallible dogmas?

“Why aren’t you Catholic?” This episode addresses a range of concerns, including the reasons some converts cite for their Protestant faith, such as dreams and personal experiences. Other topics include the belief that there is no marriage in heaven and questions surrounding Marian devotion and the significance of the Council of Nicaea. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – I’m a recent convert and never had this question answered. I’ve heard of Muslims who convert due to dreams but when they convert, they become protestant. Is there a theory as to why? 16:50 – I’m not Catholic because there is no marriage in heaven and I would feel incomplete without femininity 29:01 – I’m not Catholic because of Marian devotion and the holy days of obligation. 46:37 – I’m an ex-Catholic because of Nicaea and how Catholics break from the Jesus described in the council and your understanding of his divinity.

“Why aren’t you Catholic?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of faith, including the roles of purgatory and indulgences in salvation. Other topics include the significance of the feast of Saint Joseph and the challenges faced by those considering the SSPX. The conversation also touches on perspectives from Anglo-Catholics regarding papal infallibility. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:00 – The feast of Saint Joseph 11:39 – I’m not Catholic because I don’t understand purgatory and indulgences and how they relate to salvation. 29:03 – My father was one of 13 and all the boy’s middle name was Joseph. 33:37 – I am Catholic but 3 women in my life are SSPX and are very convincing. Why should I not join? 45:44 – I’m an Anglo-Catholic. I’m not convinced of Papal Infallibility.

“Why don’t we have Mass on Good Friday?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of this solemn day in the Catholic tradition. Other topics include the obligations of Jewish converts to Christianity, the participation of Protestant converts in Communion, and the appropriateness of saying Hallelujah during Lent. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:00 – Why don’t we have mass on Good Friday? 10:12 – If a Jew converts to Christianity he has to believe Jesus is God but does he also have to follow the commandments of the Torah? 21:46 – If Protestant Converts have already been baptized and believe in Transubstantiation, why aren’t they allowed to fully participate in the fullness by receiving communion? 30:55 – If My husband and I are done having kids, how do we proceed without violating Catholic teaching? 43:58 – Can we say Hallelujah during Lent outside of Mass? 47:36 – I notice my Catholic friends’ religious views become political. What’s with the trend? What’s with things like the Latin Mass? 52:25 – Is it mandatory to say “One God, forever and ever” at the end of the Collect? 54:25 – If major transformations are rooted in God, why would we need to become Catholic? 01:00 – The feast of Saint Joseph 11:39 – I’m not Catholic because I don’t understand purgatory and indulgences and how they relate to salvation. 29:03 – My father was one of 13 and all the boy’s middle name was Joseph. 33:37 – I am Catholic but 3 women in my life are SSPX and are very convincing. Why should I not join? 45:44 – I’m an Anglo-Catholic. I’m not convinced of Papal Infallibility.

“How Does Baptism save us?” This question opens a discussion on the Biblical evidence supporting baptism’s role in salvation. Other topics include the Catholic Church’s stance on full immersion baptisms, the significance of being marked with a seal in Ephesians 1:13, and the validity of baptisms performed in Protestant churches. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:30 – What’s the Biblical Evidence That Baptism Saves Us? 11:42 – Why does the Catholic Church not employ full immersion Baptisms? 15:14 – I’m a recent convert. Ephesians 1:13 having belief in him you were marked with a Seal, how is that different from being baptized? 20:41 – Would the Church accept a baptism that was administered in Protestant Church, if the protestant minister preached that baptism was just a symbol? 29:45 – Orthodox teach full immersion baptism, why doesn’t Roman rite do full immersion? 35:54 – How does baptism assist us in avoiding sin? 47:20 – In an emergency baptism how would the church validate it? 50:00 – People who return want to be re-baptized. Is it a misplaced desire?

“Did Catholics remove the Gospel of Thomas?” This question opens a discussion about the origins and decisions surrounding the biblical canon. The conversation also touches on why the letter of Clement was excluded, the identity of James in the New Testament, and the Catholic perspective on the Jewish scriptures. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 00:40 – Senator Talarico claims that Christian removed the Gospel of Thomas from the Bible. Can you tell us what the Gospel of Thomas is, and did Catholics remove this book, or any book from the Bible? 16:47 – Why was the letter of Clement not included in Canon? 19:49 – Is the Book of James the James who is the bigshot in Acts? 20:58 – Does the presbyterian church that Tarlrico belongs to believe that women must become men to enter Heaven as stated in the Gospel of Thomas? 29:16 – How does the Catholic faith view the books of scripture that Jews adhere hear to and which books of scripture are part of Catholic canon and not protestant? 36:55 – If Hannukah (a high holy day) which is only mentioned in Maccabees, but protestants leave Maccabees out of their canon, how can this be if they base their canon on Jewish canon? 46:04 – Are any of the letters attributed to Paul actually written by anyone else? 53:00 – What do you make of the stories of Jesus as a young boy?

“How should we approach modesty?” This question opens a discussion on the cultural sensitivities surrounding dress and respect. The conversation also touches on how the Church can promote proper attire at Mass and the responsibilities men have regarding custody of the eyes, highlighting the importance of respectful presentation in a faith community. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 33:33 – How do we consider the different geographic and culture sensitivities to dress when it comes to modesty? 40:27 – How can the Church restore a renewed sense of proper and respectful dress at Mass? 44:29 – What responsibility do men have when it comes to custody of the eyes? 51:45 – At her parish the pastor has instilled a presentable dress code for volunteers during Mass which is setting and example for the congregation.

“Why oppose assisted suicide?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of suffering and the value of life, touching on personal experiences of trauma and the lack of resources for healing. The conversation also addresses the role of legislation in protecting the unborn and the implications for fathers in abortion decisions, highlighting the multifaceted nature of these ethical issues. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 12:54 – Why would we be against wanting to end their own life if they are suffering? 21:00 – I was abused growing up and considered assisted suicide and didn’t have the resources necessary to deal with the trauma. 32:22 – Is legislation the most grace filled way to protect the unborn? 41:18 – What is the Church’s stance on passing legislation that would punish abortion providers and people who procure abortions; should they be punished as murderers? 48:32 – What about Father’s who are completely left out of the decision if the child is aborted or not?

“How do we respond to the claim Jesus was just a wise teacher?” This question opens a discussion on the true nature of Christ, while also addressing concerns from new converts about finding a parish in communion with Rome, the historical use of priestly vestments, and the implications of Jesus’ words in John 20:17 regarding the hypostatic union. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:45 – How do we respond to the Claim Jesus was Just a Wise Teacher? 10:56 – I’m new to the faith, getting baptized soon, and I’m going back into the Army. I’ve seen a lot of heretical things in parishes. As I move to a new station, how do I navigate making sure I’m in a parish and diocese that is in communion with Rome? 18:56 – When did Catholic priests start using vestments? 22:07 – I am dogsitting for a family member who is out of town, and they have tarot cards in the house. What should I do with them? 30:49 – In John 20:17 Jesus calls God “my God and your God.” Is Jesus worshipping the Father because of the hypostatic union? Would that have also been the case before the Incarnation? Does the Holy Spirit worship the Father? 36:49 – If Jesus would be born today, would he still have died for our sins, considering how bad things are? 43:58 – When Moses wrote the creation story, what were his sources — where did he get it from? 48:40 – I am in OCIA. I am feeling spiritual attacks and temptation to backslide. Are these attacks to be expected as I enter the final weeks before entering the Church? 50:57 – What are good books to read or something to listen to learn about the faith? I watch you guys and Joe Heschmeyer. I want to dive into some more source material, like the stuff you guys draw from. 53:20 – Why is Joseph not mentioned much in the Bible?

“Did Jesus fulfill the prophecy of the Messiah?” This question opens a discussion that also touches on why Pilate didn’t gather evidence during Jesus’ trial, the nature of Jesus’ last name, and the Church’s infallibility. The conversation navigates through various theological inquiries, providing clarity on these important topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:00 – Did Jesus Fulfill the Prophecy of the Messiah? 10:43 – When Jesus came before Pilate, why didn’t Pilate try to gather any kind of evidence? 14:27 – What is Jesus’ last name? 18:59 – How would you convince a Buddhist to become Catholic? 22:06 – Was Nestorius wrongly condemned at the counsel of Ephesus? Why were Chalcedonians accused of sounding Nestorian? 29:07 – When is the Church infallible and when is she not? 32:33 – If Jesus was a Jew, why are we not all Jewish? 36:34 – What is the Gospel of Thomas, who wrote it, and why is it considered an apocryphal book? 41:26 – Who was the human author of Genesis? Was it first an oral tradition that was written down later? 45:09 – Last week I thought I heard on this show that when Christ was crucified he set aside his divinity so he could fully experience the pain and suffering of sin. That sounds off to me, is that right? 53:14 – I am converting from a Jewish background. I’d like to share resources to the previous caller about being a Jewish Catholic.

What Made Jews Expect a Messiah? Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:17 – What factors had the Jews expecting the messiah in the 1st century? 07:03 – Where is a good start when reading the Deuterocanonical books? Books Protestant bible doesn’t? 12:29 – Should Isaiah 65:20 be taken literally or symbolically? 19:30 – How do you decide what content to consume when reading or listening to videos? 28:42 – Why do people rip or tear garments so often in the Old Testament? 34:48 – What is the historical tradition behind male altar servers? 46:22 – What does the church know or teach about the life of St. Joseph? 50:51 – Could blasphemy of the Holy Spirit prevent Jeffrey Dahmer Baptism from being valid?

Were the Gospels Written Earlier? Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:27 – Were the Gospels Written Earlier then We Were Taught? 14:44 – Why are pregnant women allowed to receive the Eucharist? 22:18 – When did the terms low, high and solemn high Mass develop for the Latin Mass? 28:45 – At what point should we take the bible stories more literally? 41:00 – Did Jesus descend into the Hell of the just? Is this different from Hell and why did Jesus need to do this? 45:36 – Why isn’t the book of Enoch in the Bible?

“Where do we see the Mass in Acts of the Apostles?” This question opens a discussion on the early Church’s practices, alongside topics like defending infant baptism against claims of its necessity, and the significance of Jesus’ addition of “mind” in Mark 12:30. The conversation also touches on the reasons behind reluctance to go to confession and the implications of the papacy’s location. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:20 – Where do we see the Mass in Acts of the Apostles? 09:38 – How do we defend the baptism of infants? My co-worker says you just need faith and it’s not necessary to baptize babies. 17:52 – In Mark 12:30 Jesus quotes the great shema. In Deuteronomy it says to love God with your whole heart, soul, and strength. Why does Mark add the word “mind” to that? 22:15 – Why do some people feel reluctant to go to confession? 28:39 – Is the papacy so tied to Rome that it could never be somewhere else? If Islam took over Europe could the pope be based somewhere else? 31:58 – Why isn’t the book of Maccabees in the King James Bible? I’m trying to talk about the faith with my Seventh Day Adventist family members. 41:00 – Mt 10:3 calls James son of Alpheus, and Mk 2:14-17 calls Levi the son of Alpheus. Could they be brothers? 44:17 – My grown children think we are living in a simulation. How can I counter this? 50:13 – You said the King James did not translate the deuterocan books. But I have two KJV Bibles that include the deuterocanonical books. 52:01 – I’ve been getting along with my new coworkers because they are Christian. But today Mary came up and they really attacked Catholic teaching on Mary. What can I say to them?

“How do you make a great confession?” This question is essential for anyone returning to the sacrament after a long absence. Additionally, the discussion touches on whether it’s acceptable to work for a divorced employer and explores the concept of priests acting in persona Christi, along with insights into the Synagogue of Satan mentioned in Revelation. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:10 – How do you make a great confession if you haven’t been in a long time? 14:45 – Is it okay to work for an employer who is divorced? I told her not to get divorced because it’s against God but it’s a good job. 31:52 – Where do we get the idea of priests acting in persona christi? 43:30 – Until recently I’ve never never heard of the Synagogue of Satan. But I see it twice in the book of Revelation. What is it all about?

“What does the Bible say about Confession?” This episode addresses the significance of confession in the Catholic faith, alongside questions about whether one should confess venial sins, how priests maintain confidentiality, and the necessity of confession before receiving communion. The discussion also touches on the nature of mortal sins and the concept of perfect contrition. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 08:53 – Should I go to confession if I don’t have any mortal sins, since my venial sins are forgiven at Mass? 11:49 – How can priests keep all these confessions confidential? They see their parishioners all the time, how do they not slip? 17:11 – Do you need to go to confession every time before taking communion? 19:35 – When I confess my sins I don’t say how many times. But I heard I should be saying the number of times. 31:16 – What are the mortal sins? 39:24 – Regarding priests keeping the seal of confession — how would it even benefit a priest to talk about a confession, even if they don’t reveal who the person is? 41:42 – I’m in OCIA and my wife isn’t. I’m trying to help her understand why we don’t just confess to our hearts directly to God. 45:25 – I was baptized presbyterian and became Catholic last year. Sometimes I remember a sin from my pre-Catholic life that I didn’t mention in my first confession. Do I need to confess those? 48:26 – If you have committed a mortal sin and die before going to confession, I understand you’re good if you have perfect confession. But what exactly is perfect contrition? 50:40 – Is the withdrawal method a mortal sin?

“Where does the Church stand on the ethics of Neuralink?” This question opens a discussion on the intersection of technology and morality, while also addressing the ethical considerations surrounding frozen embryos and the implications of pharmaceutical birth control methods. Additionally, the conversation touches on the responsibilities of attorneys in providing ethical healthcare advice in line with Catholic teaching. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:30 – Where does the Church stand on the ethics of Neuralink? 18:32 – We have frozen embryos from before we became Catholic. What is the ethical way to handle them? 33:50 – Do all pharmaceutical birth control methods prevent implantation of the embryo? 42:14 – I’m an attorney. What do I need to know to give good ethical advice about healthcare directives? I have clients that want things that might contradict Catholic teaching. Can I not draft the document for them?

“Who received the first Eucharist?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of the Eucharist and the scriptural evidence for the real presence of Christ. Other topics include how to address Catholics who feel more fulfilled in Protestant services, the morality of the death penalty, and the rationale behind the Hail Mary prayer in the rosary. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:34 – Who received the first eucharist? Which scripture is the best to show as evidence for the real presence? 12:23 – How do we respond when a Catholic says they are getting more out of going to a Protestant church? How do we bring them back? 22:49 – How is the death penalty an immoral thing, and why is it changed for the first time in history? 37:30 – What is the response to the justification that the reformation is valid because the reformers followed the example of the apostles being kicked out of the temple? 42:05 – I see a lot of inconsistencies in the Catholic Church. I have an issue because if Doctrine can change how can I agree with what will change in the future? 51:24 – Why do Catholics pray the hail mary so much during the rosary? Isn’t it against scripture?

“How do I explain James 2 to Protestants?” This question opens a discussion on the Catholic understanding of faith and works, while also addressing how we determine the canon of Scripture and the role of tradition in the Church. Other topics include the significance of traditions like kissing the bishop’s ring and the implications of 2 Timothy 3:16-17 for interpreting Scripture. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 13:13 – How do we figure out the canon? Are the books self attesting. Why does the Holy Spirit give infallibility to the Church but the Holy Spirit does not give infallibility to individuals? 20:31 – I’m entering into the Church and recently met my bishop. Are traditions like kissing the bishop’s ring still necessary? Why or why not? 31:50 – How do I explain the Catholic approach to James 2 to Protestants? 42:11 – What are our areas of disagreement apart from Sola Scriptura? 49:11 – What does it mean when it says all scripture in 2 Timothy 3:16-17?

“How can Catholics hold councils without Orthodox bishops?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of ecclesiastical authority and governance. Additionally, the episode addresses whether one must be Catholic to be saved, the Orthodox perspective on the Immaculate Conception, and the differing views on the Filioque in the Creed. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:45 – How can Catholics still hold councils without the Orthodox bishops? 12:12 – Do you have to be Catholic in order to be saved? 15:15 – What’s the Orthodox view of Immaculate Conception? Is the Orthodox canon different from ours? 20:25 – Leo III wouldn’t add the Filioque to the Creed and gave his reasons?. Did the pope who added it ever give an explanation as to why? 28:43 – Is it ok for Catholics to accept the Ethiopian canon description of Jesus? 30:18 – I’ve heard some Orthodox say they don’t adore Jesus in the Eucharist because they view it as food. Is this uniform thought? 33:33 – How can a non-Christian evaluate the competing claim of the Eastern Orthodox who also claims apostolic authority? 39:21 – Why does the Eastern Orthodox allow contraception and Catholics don’t? 43:55 – Can a person who became Eastern Orthodox from Catholicism just jump back and forth? How can Eastern Orthodox justify 3 sacramental marriages? 48:12 – Do you think the Catholics and all other churches will ever fully reunite?

“What are the top reasons for Gospel reliability?” This question opens a discussion on the foundational aspects that affirm the Gospels’ trustworthiness, including the significance of eyewitness accounts. Other topics include the challenges posed by Bart Ehrman regarding Jesus’ words, the role of St. Luke among the apostles, and the criteria used to determine authentic Gospels versus apocryphal texts. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:10 – What are the top 3 reasons for the reliability of the gospels? 29:07 – Have you considered the work of Bart Ehrman and his problems with what Jesus really said? 35:56 – Is it safe to assume that St. Luke was one of the 72 that was originally sent out? 42:27 – How did they figure out which gospels were the actual eye witnesses and others weren’t like the gospel of Thomas? 46:49 – How would you go about balancing knowing the bible is the word of God and knowing humans had some influence on it? 50:44 – How would you compare the reliability of transmission of the NT compared to the Quran and the Hadiths?

Why does the Catholic Church have both the Traditional Latin Mass and the modern form of the Mass—and how should you explain the difference without getting pulled into “liturgy wars”? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists address this common question before diving into a wide range of topics. They explore whether charging interest is still considered usury, how just war theory applies to rebellions, and how historical cases like the Knights Templar fit with Church law. The episode also explains the role of baptism in justification, offers arguments against naturalism, and gives practical advice for strengthening Catholic marriages. Additional questions include how to understand Peter’s denial of Jesus and what it means for salvation. A rich discussion covering liturgy, moral theology, and everyday Catholic life. Questions Covered: 05:32 – I attend the Tridentine Mass Almost exclusively at my ‘local’ FSSP parish. I have a friend seeking the Catholic Church who asked me ‘why do you have two different masses in the Western Rite? Why don’t you just attend the regular English one?’   I often say that I am drawn to the beauty and simplicity of it. How do we respond to this simply without dragging them into the so-called ‘liturgy wars’? How do we respond given the restrictions placed on the older masses? Basically, how do we address this difference to those outside the church? Do I just keep a response about ‘preferences of the faithful’?  11:46 – The Church has been quite vocal against usury over the centuries. Is it still defined as any lending of money at interest? How does this notion square with the idea of a variable money supply? Would things like bank accounts, bonds, cds or stocks still be considered illicit? Has there been any recent guidance from the magisterium?  19:02 – Does just war theory apply to rebellions? Historically, I’m thinking of Irish wars against the British Empire and slave revolts of African-descended peoples in the Americas, including during the U.S. Civil War. What would be the conditions of jus ad bellum in cases like these or any other group dealing with an oppressor?  28:46 – Canon 7 of Chalcedon forbids clergy and monks from war and holding secular office. How then did the Knights Templar, and bishops such as the bishop of Andorra, who also holds title of Co-Prince of Andorra, not violate this?  34:03 – How does baptism fit with “faith alone working through love?” Can someone with “faith alone working through love” be initially justified apart from baptism?  19:44 – What do you think is the most convincing argument/thought exercise against naturalism/empricism (or at least what the average indifferent secular person thinks they believe).  46:29 – What is your best advice for a married Catholic couple to strengthen their bond in marriage? Your stories about you and Renee are always so beautiful (the blue birds especially). Also thanks for being a Catholic cowboy. I grew up Southern Baptist, and seeing a southern Catholic gentleman do apologetics is really cool.  50:51 –  Peter denied Jesus 3 times. After the c**k crows three times he ran away in shame. What if he falls, hits his head and dies after this? Would his soul be in danger of damnation? 

What if Christians today are misunderstanding what God really meant in Scripture? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists address a thoughtful concern about biblical translation and interpretation, explaining how the Church safeguards authentic teaching across centuries. The discussion also covers how to discern and use your God-given talents responsibly, why there isn’t a simple official Vatican list of all dogmas, and whether belief in Marian dogmas is required for justification. Additional questions explore the nature of election and free will, whether artificial intelligence could ever possess consciousness, and whether uncertainty around ex cathedra statements challenges papal infallibility. A wide-ranging and intellectually engaging conversation on faith, reason, and modern questions. Questions Covered: 01:47 – Knowing that the Bible and other texts have been translated over the centuries… what if how they’re understood now, by any faith, is wrong? What if God is sitting in heaven, looking down and thinking, “that’s not what I meant at all”? If it matters, I’m a convert to Catholicism from the Baptist church (and it’s been the best decision I’ve ever made by the way), I just think about weird stuff like this from time to time watching the debates about who’s right and who’s wrong or the meaning of things we now read in translated texts.  12:00 – When you have more than 1 talent and competing basic life priorities, what’s the most prudent way to act in a pleasing manner to God so as to not be at fault for neglecting a gift from God.  17:33 – Why is there no official Vatican list of Catholic Dogmas? Google has its own searchable list of 255 dogmas. But, you would think….  30:27 – Is justification predicated upon belief on your four Marian dogmas.  35:46 – Would it be fair to say there are two steps to being considered elect? That is to say God elects everyone (calls them to salvation and has a plan for them in place) but that our cooperation with his grace makes that initial unconditional election conditional on our acceptance and continued faithfulness?   43:18 – Can something like AI ever gain consciousness and what should we make of it if it does or doesn’t and on what grounds?  51:20 – Isn’t the fact that we can’t precisely define how many Papal statements have been made “ex cathedra” a problem for Papal Infallibility? 

Why didn’t the Jewish people of Jesus’ time—and many today—accept Him as the Messiah? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists explore this foundational question before diving into others on the core of Christian belief. They explain the evidence for the resurrection, whether Pascal’s Wager could justify belief in the Eucharist, and if our prayers can override God’s will. The episode also unpacks St. Augustine’s famous reflection on the Trinity, clarifies what indulgences really are, and examines difficult biblical passages like 1 Corinthians 15:29. Finally, they address why the Catholic Church accepts Protestant baptisms but not confirmations, and how to respond to claims that infant baptism isn’t found in Scripture. Questions Covered: 04:21 – What is it about Jesus that the Jews of his time and today still don’t accept him as messiah and considered him sacrilegious? 12:14 – What are the reasons to believe in the resurrection? What convinced you?  17:40 – If we did pascals wager with the eucharist, If we’re wrong, is it idolatry? 21:10 – Do our prayers override God’s will? 28:40 – Could you expound on the story of Augustine trying to understand the Trinity? (The story of Augustine seeing a boy trying to fill a hole with the ocean.) 36:15 – I don’t understand indulgences. Can you help clarify what they mean? 43:55 – What is the Catholic position on 1 Cor. 15:29? 49:49 – Why is baptism in a Christian denomination accepted to join the Catholic Faith, but confirmation is not? 51:16 – We have friends that say they can’t find infant Baptism in the bible. How do I respond?

Is IVF ever morally acceptable for Catholics facing infertility? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists tackle challenging questions about Catholic teaching on human life, Scripture, and Mary. The discussion begins with how to respond when someone believes IVF is their only option, followed by questions about consent and pregnancy, whether Ezekiel 18 contradicts original sin, and how the Church responds to the claim of total depravity. The episode also explains what the Magisterium is, whether Revelation 12 refers to Mary or Israel, the evidence for Mary’s sinlessness, why Catholics honor Mary above John the Baptist, and how spiritual beings like angels can engage in battle. A thoughtful exploration of Catholic doctrine and biblical interpretation. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:55 – How can I answer someone who isn’t Catholic and the only solution is IVF? 08:15 – Do Catholics minimize consent? The example: Just because a person consents to sex does not mean they consent to impregnation. 15:14 – What’s the Catholic response to the claim that Ezekiel 18:20-21 argues against original sin? 20:31 – Since the bible describes original sin as impacting the whole person, it seems like it teaches the doctrine of total depravity, which the Catholic Church rejects. 28:51 – Could you explain what the magisterium is? 33:36 – Is Rev 12:1-18 about Mary or Israel 40:40 – I struggle with Mary being perfect? What proof do we have that she led a sinless life? 47:25 – Why do we believe that Mary was greater than John the Baptist when Jesus says he is the greatest? 50:30 – How can spirit creatures do battle, regarding the battle of angels?

“Did Constantine rig the Council of Nicea?” This question opens a discussion on early Church issues, including the specifics of the canon established at the Council of Florence and the complexities surrounding the organization of the early Church. Other topics include the role of Protestant pastors in critiquing Catholicism and the scriptural basis for attending Mass and confession. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:30 – Did Constantine rig the Council of Nicea? 07:51 – What is the specific canon of the council of Florence (1422) whereby the Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and Coptics all agreed on the 73 book canon of scripture? 12:40 – How can we help stop this war in the Middle East? What can I do? 16:51 – How do I respond to a Protestant claim citing Eamon Duffy’s book, Saints and Sinners, that Clement never makes the claim to be a bishop, that his letter from the whole Roman community (not just him), and that the church at that time was organized under a group of bishops, not a single bishop. 21:32 – Why do Protestant pastors feel compelled to put down the Catholic faith? If they don’t believe it, why don’t they just leave us alone? 29:12 – Where is it in scripture that we need to attend Mass once a week and go to confession once a year? And are there any exceptions for people who can’t get there (like if they can’t drive). 34:09 – Why do all of the apostolic Churches like the Oriental Orthodox have different canons on scripture and different christologies? 41:08 – If my mother and father are in Purgatory, do they know each other in Purgatory? Can souls in Purgatory pray for each other? 46:28 – In the early church, how did they know how to consecrate the bread and wine at Mass? 49:10 – How does the Catholic Church view the development of the election of a pope changing from Roman clergy to the College of Cardinals? 51:48 – I’ve heard people say that Peter and Paul had different gospel messages, and that since I’m American, I’m a gentile, therefore I should follow Paul instead of Peter.

“Is it appropriate to pray the Rosary during Mass?” This question opens a discussion on the integration of personal devotion within communal worship. Other topics include why many Catholic parishes serve only bread during Communion, the historical context of the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt, and the process of seeking annulments while preparing for the sacraments. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:30 – Is it appropriate to pray the Rosary during Mass? 17:03 – I’m not Catholic. Why do many Catholic churches only give the bread and not the wine? It seems like if we’re following scripture it should be both. 29:15 – I heard that when the Holy Family went to Egypt they were robbed by two thieves, and these same thieves were crucified with Jesus. Is this true? 33:33 – My wife and I are going through OCIA. Both of us are seeking annulments for our previous marriages. The annulments will likely not be done by Easter. Can we still receive the sacrament of reconciliation? 43:11 – Could the new Mass of Paul VI be considered a new rite? Especially considering the new Eucharistic prayers, and the fact that the Roman Canon is not required? 45:21 – What are your thoughts on making noise in the church before Mass begins? Should it be silent preparation, or should we greet and talk to people? Or somewhere in between? 50:07 – Is Aquinas’ belief that Jesus did not have the theological virtue of Faith a doctrine of the Church? Or is it just Aquinas’ opinion?

“Is feminism compatible with Christianity?” This question opens a discussion on the intersection of faith and feminist ideals, addressing concerns about objectification and the complexities of modern feminism. Other topics include how to engage charitably with feminist viewpoints and the misconceptions surrounding women’s equality and the patriarchy. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:30 – Is Feminism compatible with Christianity? 23:28 – My sister claims to be a feminist and says she is in support of legal prostitution. At the same time she says she is against the objectification of women. Any advice on how to talk to her about this stuff? 32:46 – What’s your advice on how to best debate with a feminist in a charitable way? 43:50 – I think people are confused about what feminism is. People think women being equal is women being like men, and that’s wrong. I think the patriarchy still has a hold on us in some ways — women need education so they can escape abusive relationships if needed.

“Should we remove holy water and cover statues in Lent?” This question opens a discussion on the practices of the season, while also addressing the nature of the Mass as a true sacrifice, the challenges of explaining its mystical elements to Protestants, and the historical changes from the Latin Mass to the new order. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:27 – Should We Remove Holy Water and Cover Statues Doing Lent? 12:25 – Is the sacrifice of the Mass symbolic or is it actually Christ continually being sacrificed through time and space in the Eucharist? 17:14 – How do you deal with a Protestant who struggles with the mystical or supernatural aspects of the Mass. I mean, consuming flesh and blood is pretty out there. 37:10 – After the collect, does the congregation need to wait until the priest sits down before we sit down? We did it that way when I was a kid, but not anymore. 42:25 – Why did the Mass change from the Latin Mass to the new order? 47:43 – I’m in OCIA. I wanted to attend a Church that has a Latin Mass. What do I need to know beforehand? I saw on a parish website times for high mass and low mass. What is this all about?

“How Can I Avoid Gossip?” This question opens a discussion on the implications of cursing and the use of God’s name in vain. Other topics include strategies for overcoming cussing, the moral responsibilities of viewers regarding language in films, and whether little lies can be considered sinful. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 15:16 – My worst habit is cussing. Can you recommend how I can stop? 19:31 – Is it ever acceptable for an actor to take the Lord’s name in vain for a movie? And as viewers do we bear any culpability for viewing it? 31:32 – Are little lies sinful? 42:07 – Is it wrong to say “G.D.”? My dad said it all the time. 45:59 – Rahab lied, but she’s this biblical hero. What’s the deal with that? 47:30 – How would you approach someone in your life who regularly uses the Lord’s name in vain? 51:43 – My students just say the most outrageous and nonsensical things. How can I cut this off without completely shutting down the classroom?

“Is there a scriptural basis for St. Joseph’s Assumption?” This question opens a discussion on the biblical foundations of St. Joseph’s bodily assumption into Heaven. Other topics include the differences between the Douay–Rheims versions, the appropriateness of praying for intercession from souls in purgatory, and the practice of clergy praying with covered heads during Mass. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 18:29 – What is the difference between the Douay–Rheims reims and the traditional Douay–Rheims? 21:45 – Is it okay to not just pray for the souls in purgatory, but to ask for their intercession? 29:07 – 1 Cor 11 says to not pray with your head covered. So how do we reconcile that with clergy praying with heads covered (mitres, cardinals hats, berettas, etc) during Mass? 32:49 – Should we offer Masses for the recently deceased leader of Iran and his party? 42:39 – How does one pray to saints? Also, The Bible records Jesus’ words of prayer in the agony in the garden, but how do we know what he said if nobody was there to witness and report it? 45:23 – How often can one make a general confession? 48:22 – Can you help me understand this controversy of interpreting the bible as saying we are either “declared” righteous or “made” righteous? 52:04 – I feel like God’s love and mercy has already washed my sins away even though I haven’t been to confession yet. What’s the deal with that?

When exactly can Catholics fulfill their Easter duty, and why does the Church require it? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Jimmy Akin answers thoughtful questions from listeners on a wide range of topics. He explains how we know the Scriptures are divinely inspired without falling into circular reasoning, discusses theories about the causes of same-sex attraction, and examines whether monastic life conflicts with the Church’s mission to evangelize. Jimmy also explores the relationship between the Eucharist and the resurrection of the body, moral responsibility for actions done in ignorance, whether swallowing something stuck in your teeth breaks the Eucharistic fast, and how Catholic moral theology evaluates difficult scenarios like stopping a hijacked plane. A wide-ranging discussion covering Scripture, moral theology, and practical questions about living the Catholic faith. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:00 – When can you fulfill your Easter duty? 11:07 – How can we know that the Scriptures are divinely inspired? The idea that “the Church says the Scriptures are divinely inspired because the Church has the authority to say so, but the Church has the authority to say so because the Scriptures give them the authority to” feels like a circular argument. I know there’s more to it, but I can’t quite articulate it, so any help would be appreciated! 19:33 – Have you in your learnings come to understand what causes Same-Sex Attraction? Is there a theory you find convincing? Do you have a theory of your own? 29:11 – Is monasticism selfish?  For example, how could have the apostles fulfilled the Great Commission if they were cloistered? And how would that apply today?  Can evangelization be accomplished from inside a monastic cell? 39:54 – It seems to me that God’s ultimate goal is to get us back bodily in heaven with him. Would that be like the garden of Eden again and how does us eating the eucharist help with that? Or does it? It seems we need to eat our savior to be bodily with God like he is. Is this correct or am I going somewhere I shouldn’t with this line of reasoning? 44:17 – If somebody does something evil out of stupidity, how responsible is he for said action? Can he be at least partly excused? 47:58 – This might sound silly, but I’ve wondered it a lot: If you are in mass and you’ve fasted the hour but find something in your teeth, does it break the fast to swallow it?  50:00 – Would it be moral to shoot down a hijacked plane full of civilians over an unpopulated area, if it is believed the hijackers intend to crash it in a populated area? Would this be considered doing evil that good may come of it or double effect?

Are generational curses real, and does the Bible support the idea that sins can pass down through families? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Jimmy Akin tackles a wide range of fascinating questions from listeners. He explains the Church’s teaching on generational curses, whether Christians can eat food offered to other gods, and when it may be morally permissible to disobey unjust laws. Jimmy also explores deeper philosophical and theological questions, including how we can experience happiness in Heaven before the resurrection of the body, whether a pope emeritus remains a cardinal, and whether delaying confession can itself become sinful. A thoughtful and wide-ranging discussion covering moral theology, Church authority, and practical Catholic living. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 00:55 – Is there such a thing as generational curses? 13:21 – Could you please summarize the church’s teaching on food offered to other gods? Is it a sin to eat it if it’s offered to me or is it fine if I just think of it as something to eat? 20:09 – When does illegally acquired power become legal? For example, when can a Chinese person stop obeying the authorities in Taiwan, and henceforth honor the ruling Communists?  23:27 – Yes, can you please explain when, if ever, it is okay to disobey laws and rules? Also, while vigilantism is against Catholic teaching, when, if ever, is it appropriate to try to restore justice as an ordinary citizen if corruption has gone so far? Sorry, I know this is very broad but I appreciate any thoughts. Thank you so much. God bless you always, Jimmy. 34:13 – How can we be happy in Heaven before the general resurrection if happiness is dependent on chemicals in our brains? 44:34 – Is a pope emeritus still a cardinal, or would the next pope need to create his predecessor as a cardinal again so that he could vote in a conclave again?  49:00 – Is it an additional sin to delay confession if you know you need to go? Someone on X argued Aquinas says delaying confession is not a sin. I argued that he says it’s impractical to go “immediately,” but it can still be a sin depending on your access to a priest and why you delay.

“Is ecumenism compromising doctrine?” This question leads to a discussion on the goals of ecumenism and whether it involves compromising with Protestant beliefs. Other topics include the Church’s relationship with modern culture, the historical and biblical basis for apostolic authority, and the theological implications of God’s actions in the stories of David and Bathsheba. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:41 – What is the goal of Ecumenism? Is it us compromising on doctrine with Protestants? 11:00 – Do you think the Church should change with modern culture or stand apart from it? 17:40 – How can we demonstrate historically and biblically that the apostles passed on their authority to bishops? 29:04 – Why did God create man alone when he knew he would create woman after? 40:53 – Why did God take out his anger on David and Bathsheba’s first baby? 49:15 – Why does freemasonry have an appeal that Catholicism doesn’t have, and why is Catholicism better?

“How can couples avoid bitterness?” Respect and patience are essential in nurturing relationships. In this episode, Rose Sweet shares her personal journey and offers insights on seeking understanding, addressing disrespect, and maintaining perspective. She also discusses coping strategies through art and the challenges of navigating annulment processes within marriage. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 29:01 – Through my marital difficulties I coped with it through doing art. 33:03 – After going through all of that, how did you pick up the pieces and move on after your husband passed? 35:21 – I’m civilly married to my wife. We’re both Catholic. She and her first husband have tried to go through the annulment process but one of the witnesses died. Another time another witness would not cooperate. We’d like to try again but a little reluctant given the previous difficulties. Do you have any advice? We do not receive Communion because my wife’s first marriage is not annulled. 43:24 – I can relate to your story and had a similar experience. I had to learn to detach with love when he went from alcohol to crack. 48:02 – I’m having a problem with patience with my spouse. I’m married to a schismatic. I don’t think I’d call myself bitter, but I’m getting tired of it. I’m a former schismatic myself. 50:49 – To get through our difficulties I increased my adoration time.

“Can the Pope become an antipope?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of papal authority and the implications of heretical statements. Additionally, the episode addresses why Pope Leo can’t grant permission regarding a new bishop, the historical context of how bishops became popes, and the origins of conclaves. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:58 – Why can’t Pope Leo grant permission about the new Bishop? 17:07 – I have heard that if the Pope made a heretical statement, he would become an anti-pope. Is this true and could it happen? 21:35 – Do you have an opinion on Pope Leo visiting the US? 29:30 – How did the Bishops of Peter’s time become Pope? Give him the Peter and the Eucharist books 40:50 – How did conclaves come to be? 45:06 – When do you think the Didache was likely written? Any one of Joe’s books… 49:47 – What is the difference between the Papacy and the Orthodox Patriarch? 51:53 – When do we know the Pope is speaking Ex Cathedra and how many times has he? 54:00 – What is the tradition behind the headgear of pope and cardinals?