The Word on Fire Show - Catholic Faith and Culture

In this episode Bishop Barron answers Questions about the Mass. Go to ReasonScienceFaith.com to get your free Catholic scientist posters!

In this episode, Bishop Barron answers questions from the Word on Fire Community. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction 1:45 - Why have my emotions cooled off after my conversion? 6:30 - What should we tell people who think religion is superstition? 10:36 - How should we respond to people who claim to be "spiritual but not religious"? 14:30 - Does religion have a smart people problem? 19:30 - Why does Dante's explanation of Heaven have varying levels? 23:40 - Are all religions at the core fundamentally the same? 27:25 - What are some ideas for evangelizing a college campus? To join the Word on Fire Community go to www.wordonfire.org/community

In this episode, Bishop Barron discusses the content of his great book, And Now I See. A listener asks about the role of our conscience in relation to Church teaching. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Bishop Barron's trip to the National Eucharistic Congress in Atlanta. 2:15 - What is the central crux of And Now I See? 5:30 - Why is the idea of sight used to explain Christian transformation? 7:40 - How does Dante reveal the "mind of fear" in all of us? 13:45 - How does Thomas Merton reveal the "mind of trust" that comes from Christ? 18:30 - How can a aggressive spirituality become a detriment to us? 22:50 - How is the Incarnation the key to changing our vision? 25:10 - What should we do if our conscience is at odds with Church teaching? Visit www.AskBishopBarron.com to submit a listener question.

Nearly every day we hear about natural disasters, school shootings, and profound tragedies. Each of us experiences pain and suffering. So why does God allow it? Why doesn't he just prevent all evil from occurring? That's what Bishop Barron discusses in today's episode. A listener asks Topics Discussed o:04 - Introduction, Bishop Barron talks about his The Mass Study Program 3:14 - How did St. Augustine wrestle with the problem of evil? 10:00 - How did Thomas Aquinas deal with the problem of evil philosophically and theologically? 17:00 - How could God under any circumstances permit the Holocaust? 20:00 - How did God deal with the problem of evil on the Cross? 23:00 - How would Bishop Barron explain evil to a grieving sufferer? 24:50 - Question: Why did God not make us more capable of understanding him?

In this episode, we discuss a recent article in GQ magazine which described the Bible as overrated, along with a new report from Barna titled State of the Bible 2017: Top Findings. We explore whether people are reading the Bible, how much they're doing it, and how we can all read the Bible better. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Bishop's reflections on his Google talk, the Pope Francis movie 5:25 - Why does GQ Magazine think the Bible is overrated? 11:30 - How does Bishop Barron engage people who want to read the Bible but struggle with the task? 17:00 - How can the Bible, itself, be used as an evangelical tool? 21:30 - Why is the printed text of the Bible so important to people rather than the ebook version? 27:30 - Question: Is the God of the Bible in contrast with the God of natural theology? Bonus Resources Links State of the Bible 2017: Top Findings (Barna) 3 Takeaways from New Research on Americans and the Bible (Trevin Wax) GQ magazine puts Bible on list of 20 classic books not worth reading (USA Today) Videos Bishop Barron on How to Read the Bible Bishop Barron on Biblical Religion Articles Pope Benedict and How To Read the Bible (Bishop Barron)

Bishop Barron was recently invited to speak at the Google headquarters (aka the Googleplex) in Mountain View, CA. He addressed a room full of Google and YouTube employees on how religion doesn't shut down the questing intellect, but in fact opens up our minds, causing us to seek the fulfillment of our deepest longings. We shared the first half of his talk in last week's episode. Today we listen to the second half along with the post-talk Q&A with Google/YouTube employees.

Bishop Barron was recently invited to speak at the Google headquarters (aka the Googleplex). in Mountain View, CA. He addressed a room full of Google and YouTube employees on how religion doesn't shut down the questing intellect, but in fact opens up our minds, causing us to seek the fulfillment of our deepest longings. NOTE: This episode includes the first half of Bishop Barron's talk. We'll play the second half next week, including the post-talk Q&A with Google/YouTube employees.

Bishop Barron answers several questions from young listeners, ranging from three-year-olds to eight-year-olds, about God, Adam and Eve, and robbers. Enjoy this kids Q&A episode! Be sure to record your questions—or your kids' questions—at AskBishopBarron.com. Topics Discussed 2:20 - Update about Word on Fire Institute video recording 4:00 - Did Jesus really see his Father on the Cross? 5:15 - Why did Peter deny Jesus three times? 8:05 - Why didn't God warn Adam and Eve about the serpent? 13:00 - Why didn't God make us perfect in the beginning? 18:20 - Why did God make robbers? 20:45 - Why did God make tigers? 24:20 - How is it that God did not come into existence?

The new film Avengers: Infinity War, based on the Marvel Comics superhero team the Avengers, has already grossed over $1 billion worldwide and had the highest-grossing opening in film history. In this episode, Bishop Barron and Jared Zimmerer explore some of the movie's philosophical and spiritual themes. *SPOILER ALERT!* This episode contains spoilers so only listen after you've seen the film, or if you don't plan to see it. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, confirmation season 4:30 - What does Bishop Barron think of comic book movies and the villain, Thanos? 6:17 - How does Thanos mirror Nietzsche and alchemy? 9:45 - How does Thanos reflect the totalitarian regimes of the World War II? 13:05 - How does the Church stand against the idea that "the end justifies the means"? 15:45 - What are the shortcomings of the Marvel heroes, and how do they reflect the Greek gods? 21:50 - How did Bishop Barron react to the surprise ending? 25:00 - Who is Bishop Barron's favorite super hero? 26:00 - Question - By what criteria to you criticize movies?

Part two of Bishop Barron's talk on Catholicism and beauty from the 2018 Los Angeles Religious Education Congress.

Part One of Bishop Barron's talk on Catholicism and beauty.

Bishop Barron answers several listener questions during this episode, ranging from classic education to the Great Story of Israel to living the faith while under persecution. Enjoy this listener Q&A episode! Topics Discussed 0:04 - Updates about Confirmation season 2:00 - Video made by students at Bishop Sullivan High School (Virginia Beach, VA) 5:00 - What do you think about the movement promoting Catholic classical education? 7:40 - Does Psalm 23 demand some sort of prosperity Gospel (e.g., Joel Osteen)? 11:00 - What books do you recommend to understand God's relationship with Israel, and the Great Story? 14:30 - What do make of the Scripture that says, "God did not do the evil he had been planning to do." How should we read this? 18:00 - What key topics and elements do you think every parish religious education program should have? 22:15 - Is it possible to be gluttonous in the pursuit of knowledge about God? How do we address that? 25:45 - What did John Paul II do to facilitate the downfall of communism? 30:15 - Any advice for people living in places where you can't outwardly practice your faith?

John Krasinski's new film, A Quiet Place, which he both directs and stars in, may at first seem like a typical thriller, with lurking monsters threatening to kill everyone in their path. But it's actually a surprisingly religious movie, as Bishop Barron explains, witnessing to the monastic response to evil, the dignity of life, and the sacrificial death of Christ on the Cross. A listener asks about the next steps for someone who has said "yes" to Jesus and the Church. *SPOILER ALERT!* This episode contains spoilers so only listen after you've seen the film, or if you don't plan to see it. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Bishop Barron's vacation 2:25 - What is the plot summary of the movie? 4:40 - Did John Krasinski intend on making this a religious movie? 6:25 - What are some of the key religious motifs presented in the film? 10:20 - How does this movie display the beauty of the pro-life argument? 15:25 - How does the Christus Victor theory of atonement become a motif within this film? 18:50 - How does the Church draw parallels with the ending of A Quiet Place? 21:40 - Question - What are the next steps for someone who has said "Yes" to Jesus/Church? Have a question for Bishop Barron? Go to AskBishopBarron.com!

In this episode, Bishop Barron recounts his visit to the headquarters of both Google and YouTube. He was there to deliver a talk to Catholic Googlers on "Religion and the Opening of the Mind." He reflects on the hungering intellect and why wealth, power, pleasure, and honor all fail to satisfy its restless longings. A listener asks why Jesus didn't appear to more people after his Resurrection. NOTE: Join the Word on Fire Community here >> http://wordonfire.org/community Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Holy Week in Bishop Barron's Santa Barbara pastoral region 2:20 - What was Bishop Barron's impression of the Google and YouTube offices? 7:00 - Why did Bishop Barron choose the topic "Religion and the Opening Up of the Mind"? 10:10 - How does Thomas Aquinas's epistemology explain the "agent intellect"? 13:40 - Why does Bishop Barron bring up Elijah and the priest of Baal while at Google? 17:00 - Why can't wealth, power, pleasure or honor be the greatest good? 25:00 - What can satisfy the questing mind? 32:30 - Question: After his Resurrection, why did Jesus show himself only to a few people and not to the Pharisees, Pontius Pilate, or to a large crowd?

This week we enjoy a live recording of Bishop Barron's inspiring Easter homily.

In this week's episode Bishop Barron discusses an intrinsic aspect of evangelization; community. Not only is there an intrinsic need of mankind to have a community, which the Church teaches is part of man's nature, but also the need to have a certain kind of community within the Christian life. A listener asks how we ought to distinguish between authentic conscience and what CS Lewis called "the poison of subjectivism"? BONUS: Learn more about the first ever Word on Fire National Conference for Priests >> http://wordonfire.org/priest Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Bishop Barron's recent trips 3:00 - Why does contemporary culture bring a sense of isolation and loneliness? 5:45 - How do we find a balance between the autonomy of the individual and the need for community? 8:15 - What are the benefits and drawbacks of social media in community building? 11:45 - Why do humans need each other? 14:30 - How do we bolster parish community? 17:30 - What role will the Word on Fire Movement play in building Catholic community? 20:30 - What does Bishop Barron recommend for those looking for community? 22:00 - Listener Question: What is the difference between the authentic conscience and individual subjectivism?

In this episode, Bishop Barron and Brandon Vogt record live from the L.A. Congress, discussing Bishop Barron's keynote talk on beauty and interacting with visitors at the booth. Enjoy!

In last week's episode, we discussed the Jordan Peterson phenomenon, wondering how the Canadian clinical psychologist exploded so quickly in popularity. In this week's episode, we continue the discussion as Bishop Barron reflects on Peterson's religious views and Biblical interpretation. A listener wonders why we spend so much money on churches instead of giving it to the poor. BONUS: Learn more about the first ever Word on Fire National Conference for Priests >> http://wordonfire.org/priest Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Bishop Barron's upcoming travels 3:10 - What does Bishop Barron like about Jordan Peterson's religious perspectives? 5:00 - What issues does he take with Peterson's work? 10:45 - What are Jordan Peterson's religious views? 16:00 - What does Jordan Peterson believe about the Resurrection and what is Bishop Barron's reaction? 20:00 - What is the connection between C.S. Lewis and Jordan Peterson? 25:20 - What can Christian evangelists learn from Jordan Peterson? 28:30 - Listener question: How can the Church spend so much money on building fancy churches when there are so many poor people in need? Bonus Resources Articles The Jordan Peterson Phenomenon (Bishop Barron) 12 Rules: The Review (Matthew Hosier) What Pastors Could Learn from Jordan Peterson (Alastair Roberts) Videos Jordan Peterson's YouTube Channel Jordan Peterson interview with Patrick Coffin about the Catholic faith Books 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos (Jordan Peterson) Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of Belief (Jordan Peterson)

Dr. Jordan Peterson, a clinical psychologist and mythology enthusiast, has exploded onto the scene, becoming the world's most popular intellectual figure in just a few short months. Who is he and what should know about him? And why have his ideas gained so much traction, especially young men? Over the next couple episodes, Bishop Barron and Brandon Vogt discuss the Jordan Peterson phenomenon and reflect on his work from a Catholic perspective. A listener asks whether it's fine to use secular mindfulness meditation to relieve anxiety. BONUS: Learn more about the first ever Word on Fire National Conference for Priests >> http://wordonfire.org/priest Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Bishop spends time with Jim Caviezel 4:45 - How did Bishop Barron first come to know Jordan Peterson? 7:20 - Who are some of the philosophical influences of Jordan Peterson? 10:40 - Why does Jordan Peterson place such an emphasis on the Bible? 14:10 - How does Peterson view Nietzsche and our reaction to life's suffering? 24:05 - What is Jordan Peterson's reading of the Garden of Eden in Genesis? 28:15 - What is Jordan Peterson's take on Buddhism and Christian redemptive suffering? 30:00 - Why does Jordan Peterson believe you should absolutely never tell a lie? 33:00 - Why has Jordan Peterson become so popular especially amongst young men? 37:30 - Listener question: Is it okay for a Catholic to engage in secular mindfulness meditation in order to relieve anxiety? Bonus Resources Articles The Jordan Peterson Phenomenon (Bishop Barron) 12 Rules: The Review (Matthew Hosier) What Pastors Could Learn from Jordan Peterson (Alastair Roberts) Videos Jordan Peterson's YouTube Channel Jordan Peterson interview with Patrick Coffin about the Catholic faith Books 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos (Jordan Peterson) Maps of Meaning: The Architecture of Belief (Jordan Peterson)

The Academy Awards are just around the corner and nine films have been nominated for Best Picture. Bishop Barron has seen seven of them, and in this episode, he shares his thoughts on each. A listener asks whether free will is essential to Christianity. BONUS: Sign up for the Word on Fire National Conference for Priests >> WordOnFireShow.com/priest Topics Discussed 0:04 - Discussing Billy Graham's death and legacy 5:00 - Dunkirk 8:40 - Darkest Hour 13:30 - Get Out 16:10 - Lady Bird 21:25 - The Post 24:10 - The Shape of Water 27:00 - Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri 30:10 - Listener question: How essential is the concept of free will to Christianity? Bonus Resources Articles Lady Bird and the Breakthrough of Grace by Bishop Barron Videos Bishop Barron on Lady Bird

The Eucharist is at the foundation of the Word On Fire Institute. In this episode of the Word On Fire Show, Bishop Barron discusses what it means to be grounded in the Eucharist and how all Catholics can draw closer to the Blessed Sacrament as meal, sacrifice, and Real Presence of Jesus Christ. NOTE: Get your free Lent Reflections booklet from Bishop Barron here >> http://wordonfireshow.com/lent Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, recap of the natural disasters in Santa Barbara County 2:45 - What does it mean to be grounded in the Eucharist? 5:00 - How is the Eucharist religiously themed as "meal"? 9:30- How does the Eucharist as "sacrifice" illuminate our understanding of Communion? 14:50 - How does the Eucharist as the "real presence" relate the power of this sacrament? 18:55 - How can we learn from the Eucharistic miracles? 21:40 - How can we better ground ourselves in the Blessed Sacrament? 24:00 - Listener Question: How can we explain God's non-competitive transcendence in light of transubstantiation? To ask Bishop Barron a question for the Word on Fire Show visit AskBishopBarron.com!

At Mundelein Seminary you'll find a statue of St. George slaying a dragon below which reads, "Athleta Christi Nobilis" —The Noble Athlete of Christ. As we head into the spiritual desert of Lent, we benefit by examining the lives of those saints who courageously embraced a life of profound asceticism and self-sacrifice. In this episode of the Word On Fire Show, Bishop Barron discusses three great spiritual athletes from across the centuries. The listener question asks how to remain charitable when you disagree with your interlocutor. NOTE: Get your free Lent Reflections booklet from Bishop Barron here >> http://wordonfireshow.com/lent Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, the Churchill movie 2:45 - What is a spiritual athlete? 6:25 - Why is St. Anthony of the Desert a great spiritual athlete? 9:55 - Is there something wrong with living your entire life in the desert? 12:25 - What can Thomas Merton teach us about the purpose of asceticism? 16:45 -Why is St. John of the Cross a great spiritual athlete? 20:00 - What is the Dark Night of the Soul? 24:30 - Why is Pier Giorgio Frassati a great spiritual athlete? 28:25 - Listener Question: How might we remain charitable with someone we passionately disagree with? To ask Bishop Barron a question go to www.AskBishopBarron.com

On January 13, 2018, Bishop Barron joined Dr. William Lane Craig, the esteemed Protestant apologist, for an evening of dialogue at Claremont McKenna College. On today's episode, we recap both the afternoon session, which was an academic symposium attended by a couple dozen scholars, and the big evening dialogue in which Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig discussed faith, science, secularism, evangelization and more. A listener asks what Bishop Barron thinks of David Bentley Hart's work. Click here to watch the full dialogue between Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig, and to listen to the afternoon symposium >> http://wordonfireshow.com/wlc BONUS: Click here to get your free Lent Reflections booklet from Bishop Barron! Topics Discussed 0:04 - Intro, Why is Bishop Barron in Philadelphia? 1:30 - What was Bishop Barron's overall impression of the event with Dr. William Lane Craig? 6:4o - What was discussed during the daytime symposium? 16:25 - During the evening event, how did Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig agree about evangelization? 19:03 - What are Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig's favorite arguments for the existence of God? 21:40 - How did a book change the lives of both Dr. Craig and Bishop Barron? 23:25 - Why didn't Dr. Craig agree that beauty can be a source of evangelization? 29:00 - What happened when Bishop Barron asked Dr. Craig, "Why aren't you Catholic?" 33:00 - Listener Question: What does Bishop Barron think about the writings of David Bentley Hart? Bonus Resources Books Reasonable Faith: Christian Truth and Apologetics (William Lane Craig) The Kalām Cosmological Argument (William Lane Craig) The New Testament: A Translation (David Bentley Hart) The Experience of God: Being, Consciousness, Bliss (David Bentley Hart) Articles An Evening with William Lane Craig (Bishop Barron) Videos Dialogue with William Lane Craig (Bishop Barron) Have a question for Bishop Barron? Go to AskBishopBarron.com!

On January 13, 2018, Bishop Barron joined Dr. William Lane Craig, the esteemed Protestant apologist, for an evening of dialogue at Claremont McKenna College. On today's episode, we recap both the afternoon session, which was an academic symposium attended by a couple dozen scholars, and the big evening dialogue in which Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig discussed faith, science, secularism, evangelization and more. A listener asks what Bishop Barron thinks of David Bentley Hart's work. Click here to watch the full dialogue between Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig, and to listen to the afternoon symposium >> http://wordonfireshow.com/wlc BONUS: Click here to get your free Lent Reflections booklet from Bishop Barron! Topics Discussed 0:04 - Intro, Why is Bishop Barron in Philadelphia? 1:30 - What was Bishop Barron's overall impression of the event with Dr. William Lane Craig? 6:4o - What was discussed during the daytime symposium? 16:25 - During the evening event, how did Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig agree about evangelization? 19:03 - What are Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig's favorite arguments for the existence of God? 21:40 - How did a book change the lives of both Dr. Craig and Bishop Barron? 23:25 - Why didn't Dr. Craig agree that beauty can be a source of evangelization? 29:00 - What happened when Bishop Barron asked Dr. Craig, "Why aren't you Catholic?" 33:00 - Listener Question: What does Bishop Barron think about the writings of David Bentley Hart? Bonus Resources Books Reasonable Faith: Christian Truth and Apologetics (William Lane Craig) The Kalām Cosmological Argument (William Lane Craig) The New Testament: A Translation (David Bentley Hart) The Experience of God: Being, Consciousness, Bliss (David Bentley Hart) Articles An Evening with William Lane Craig (Bishop Barron) Videos Dialogue with William Lane Craig (Bishop Barron) Have a question for Bishop Barron? Go to AskBishopBarron.com!

The Second Vatican Council called for a more active collaboration between the ordained and lay people. In this episode of The Word on Fire Show, Bishop Barron discusses the proper roles of the laity and the clergy in our evangelization efforts and how the collaboration of both vocations, within those proper roles, can lead toward a more effective outreach. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction: Mudslides in Montecito, California 3:00 - What does it mean that Word on Fire is a collaborative apostolate? 5:30 - What role does the clergy have in evangelization? 8:35 - Why is it important that the clergy and the laity assume some different roles? 11:00 - Why is it so important for the laity to get involved in evangelization? 15:00 - How can we stay inspired to continue to evangelize the culture? 21:00 - How has Word On Fire served as an example of an effective collaboration between the laity and clergy? 23:15 - Listener Question: How can a teenager discern his vocation?

This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of the publication of Humanae Vitae, the controversial encyclical by Pope Paul VI which defended the classic sexual framework and prophesied the devastating consequences that would result upon its rejection. As Bishop Barron reveals, those prophecies have since been strongly vindicated. A listener asks whether God hates anything since he is defined by love. NOTE: Get your free Lent Reflections booklet from Bishop Barron here >> http://wordonfireshow.com/lent Topics Discussed 0:04 - Intro, What is Bishop Barron currently reading? 2:10 - Who was Pope Paul VI? 5:1o - What is the import of Evangelii Nuntiandi? 8:45 - What does Pope Paul mean when talks about the unitive and procreative dimensions of the sexual act? 11:45 - What are the prophecies Pope Paul makes in Chapter 17 of Humanae Vitae? 23:00 - How is Humanae Vitae more powerful now than when it was written in 1968? 27:54 - Listener Question: How can God "hate" something if God is love? Bonus Resources Books Humanae Vitae (Pope Paul VI) Evangelii Nuntiandi (Pope Paul VI) Articles Paul VI, Prophet (Bishop Robert Barron) Videos 5 Bishop Barron Videos on Marriage and the Family (Bishop Robert Barron)

On January 13, 2018, Bishop Barron joined Dr. William Lane Craig, the esteemed Protestant apologist and evangelist, for a dialogue event at Claremont McKenna College. The event was hosted by the Claremont Center for Reason, Religion, and Public Affairs and was moderated by Dr. Edward Feser and Dr. Stephen Davis. Bishop Barron and Dr. Craig discussed faith, science, secularism, evangelization and more! Enjoy this special bonus episode of the Word on Fire Show, and look forward to another episode soon where Bishop Barron will offer reflections and recap the dialogue. NOTE: Watch video of the dialogue here.

What does Bishop Barron have in store for 2018? Find out in this episode where he talks through several exciting new projects, talks, and initiatives. A listen asks how to choose good books, ones that help your faith rather than harm it. NOTE: Get your free Lent Reflections booklet from Bishop Barron here >> http://wordonfireshow.com/lent Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction, the FOCUS Conference, the Santa Barbara mudslides 5:50 - What are the upcoming talks Bishop Barron has scheduled for 2018? 8:00 - What is special about the upcoming vocation conference? 9:45 - What are the upcoming CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players episodes Word On Fire is filming? 13:40 - What are the Word On Fire Classics? 16:30 - What is the new Word On Fire Institute? 18:20 - What will be the purpose of the Word on Fire Bible 20:55 - What will Word On Fire's partnership with Flocknote provide? 23:15 - What is the Mystery of the Mass film series? 25:22 - What does Bishop Barron's USCCB committee on Evangelization and Catechesis entail? 28:15 - How do you judge whether a spiritual book will help or hinder your faith? Bonus Resources Books Bishop Barron's Favorite Books (PDF) Word on Fire Classics To Light a Fire on the Earth: Proclaiming Christ in a Secular Age by Bishop Barron

Since Bishop Barron is out of town this week, we decided to share his talk from the FOCUS Student Leadership Summit in Chicago. Over 8,000 young Catholic leaders gathered to hear Bishop Barron speak about the Acts of the Apostles and our summons to mission. Enjoy the talk!

How is beauty a route of access to God? In this episode of the Word On Fire Show, Bishop Barron explains how leading with beauty is the best way to evangelize. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Thomas Fire continues to blaze 3:15 - What does it mean to lead with beauty? 5:52 - Why has there been a resurgence of the way of beauty? 8:15 - What are some forms of beauty outside of high art? 10:00 - How have the martyrs become a way of beauty? 13:15 - Why is Brideshead Revisited a great example of the way of beauty? 17:23 - How is the Christian life a way to evangelize through beauty? 19:15 - How can we evangelize through beauty? 23:15 - Listener Question: How can we speak with certainty about our faith if we are struggling with our faith?

Merry Christmas! In today's episode, Bishop Barron walks us through the second chapter of Luke's Gospel, which recounts the birth of Jesus. As we see, this story is far from a safe, charming fairy tale. It tells the story of a new king, one who rivals the kingship of Caesar Augustus at every turn. A listener asks what St. John of the Cross meant by "the divine sweetness." Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction: The fires of Southern California 2:40 - Why is "subversive" a good word for the Nativity narrative? 4:40 - What is the importance of the census in the Christmas story? 6:40 - Why does Luke begin the story by mentioning the great figures of the time? 8:00 - What is the significance of the "line of David"? 9:55 - What is the symbolic nature of there being no room at the inn, Jesus being wrapped in swaddling clothes, and Jesus being placed in a manger? 18:08 - What's the significance of the angels and shepherds? 25:50 - How were the Gospel writers spiritual and literary masters? 27:35 - Listener question: How do we dialogue with someone who creates their own personal religion?

Today we hear from some of our youngest listeners, as kids from all over the world ask Bishop Barron their most pressing theological questions. The kids are cute, but their questions are deep! Topics Discussed 0:04 - Bishop Barron's birthday party 1:05 - Exciting event with William Lane Craig 4:00 - Did people live when dinosaurs live, and why did God kill dinosaurs? 7:35 - Will it be awkward in Heaven if you've married multiple times? 11:40 - Why was there an earthquake when Jesus was crucified, and why was the veil torn? 11:40 - If you die and go to Heaven, do you become a saint? 16:15 - When you die, if you go to Hell, will you go there forever or could Jesus take you to Heaven? 22:40 - How did God start to exist? How God effect the Big Bang? 27:45 - Does God love everybody, even the devil?

If you've listened to any number of Bishop Robert Barron's homilies or lectures, you've likely heard him use sports analogies to create a vision of the spiritual life. In this episode of the Word On Fire Show, Bishop Barron discusses how the world of sports and athleticism can help us grow in faith and understanding. The listener question asks about leisure and the Sabbath. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction 1:30 - What is Bishop Barron's background with sports? 4:00 - Why does the culture hold sports in such high regard up and down the ages? 6:00 - How do the rules in sports relate to religion? 10:30 - What do coaches teach us about real love? 15:00 - How do the rigors of sports offer insights about the rigors of the spiritual life? 20:00 - Does athleticism and fitness ever do harm to the spirit? 22:47 - Listener Question: Why is leisure important on the Sabbath?

Have you ever wondered why there is a Christmas Season? Like no other holiday, Christmas carries with it an intense period of anticipation, in which our hearts are readied with hope and love. Christians call this waiting time "Advent", and Bishop Barron explains precisely what this time is all about in today's episode of the Word on Fire Show. The listener question asks how much is enough when it comes to petitionary prayer. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction - The USCCB meeting 2:00 - Why is there a Christmas Season? 4:20 - Why should a secular person care about the birth of Jesus? 6:45 - Why must we understand Israel if we want to understand Christmas? 10:50 - Why is Mary so pivotal during Advent? What about the rest of the characters in this story? 18:30 - Will Christmas ever become more Christian than it is today in our secular world? 26:30 - What are Bishop Barron's favorite things about Christmas? 28:15 - Listener Question: How much is enough when it comes to petitionary prayer.

Today we continue our discussion of the eight principles of the Word on Fire Movement by focusing on the fifth principle, "Affirmative Orthodoxy." This term, originating with John Allen, Jr., refers to a positive presentation of what the Church teaches, an emphasis on the Catholic "Yes!" more than a finger-wagging "No!" A listen asks how we concretely love people in difficult situations. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction and the Erasmus lecture 3:00 - What is Affirmative Orthodoxy? 6:30 - Why is Affirmative Orthodoxy important to evangelization? 8:30 - G.K. Chesterton's adventurous orthodoxy 11:30 - How do we frame Affirmative Orthodoxy around modern sexual morality? 16:30 - How is it possible to maintain Affirmative Orthodoxy during a debate? 19:30 - What are some good Affirmative Orthodoxy strategies? 20:45 - How can we concretely love people in difficult situations?

We just passed the 500th anniversary of the start of the Protestant Reformation, when Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door of a Wittenberg church, and initiated a massive split of the Christian community. What should Catholics make of this event 500 years later? How should we view Protestantism and relate to our Protestant brothers and sisters? That's what Bishop Barron discussed today. A listener asks how Catholics should feel about Protestants. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction 2:00 - What are Bishop Barron's initial thoughts on this anniversary? 4:00 - Who is Stanley Hauerwas? 6:15 - Why is Hauerwas so friendly to the Catholic tradition? 8:00 - Is the Reformation effectively over? 13:40 - How does the Reformation continue to fracture the Church Universal? 17:50 - What was the difference maker for reform movements that did not splinter the Church, such as the Franciscans and Dominicans? 21:00 - Is the problem of authority the key to Protestantism? 24:00 - How should Catholics feel about Protestant denominations?

Today we celebrate the hundredth episode of "The Word on Fire Show"! It's hard to believe we've reach that mark. But to celebrate, we decided to focus on you, our listeners, and your wonderful questions. Bishop Barron answers several listener questions about a whole range of topics. SPECIAL: Pick up your FREE copy of Bishop Barron's "Advent Gospel Reflections" booklet and get inspiring reflections throughout this holy season. The book is free, you just cover the shipping. Just click here to order. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction 2:30 - What are Bishop Barron's thoughts on Stoicism? 5:15 - What if "willing the good" of one person causes problems for another? 8:30 - Why are angels commonly depicted as children in artwork? 10:45 - What are the first steps for someone who is considering becoming Catholic? 13:10 - Was Jesus made in the image of God or is Jesus God? 16:50 - Does Jesus want us to follow all of the laws of the Old Testament? 21:30 - Why did God create the world? 23:30 - Does Bishop Barron plan on starting a Catholic movement? Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

This week, Bishop Barron is giving the annual "Erasmus Lecture" for First Things, where he'll speak on "Evangelizing the 'Nones'." That's the them of this episode, which explores why young people are becoming disconnected to religion, and what we can do to draw them back. A listener asks what makes great music truly great. SPECIAL: Pick up your FREE copy of Bishop Barron's "Advent Gospel Reflections" booklet and get inspiring reflections throughout this holy season. The book is free, you just cover the shipping. Just click here to order. Topics Discussed 0:04 - Introduction, Bishop Speaks at the Cornerstone Conference and prepares for the Erasmus Lecture 06:00 - Brief synopsis of iGen, a book that discusses America's newest and least religious generation 08:30 - How does our culture's celebration of individual choice create "nones", and how do we approach this issue as evangelists? 12:20 - How has scientism led to the creation of the "nones", and how do we approach this issue as evangelists? 16:15 - How has the "LGBTQ movement" contributed to the rise of the "nones", and is Christianity anti-gay? 23:00 - What are the 5 pathways to reach the "nones"? 26:50 - How do we approach a person who has zero interest in religion? 29:00 - Listener Question: What makes great music great? Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

In his new book, To Light a Fire on the Earth, Bishop Barron shares the story of his own spiritual formation as a young man coming of age after Vatican II, who is then called to preach to a secular world. Thankfully, the bishop was guided by great men who, despite the tide of secularism and moral relativism, embodied the steadfast spirituality, integrity, and moral rectitude that informs a heroic priesthood. In this episode of the Word On Fire Show, Bishop Barron discusses the impact of five key figures in his life, beginning with his father, John Clayton Barron, Sr. and ending with his late, great mentor, Cardinal Francis George of Chicago. SPECIAL: Pre-order Bishop Barron's new hardcover book today for just $19.95 (26% off) and free shipping. You'll also receive three bonus eBooks from Bishop Barron! Just click here to order. Topics Discussed 00:04 - Introduction, first printing and a visit from the Papal Ninja 02:40 - The father of Father Barron 07:20 - Adolescence and Mr. Tim White's English class 11:52 - Seminary years with Msgr. Robert Sokolowski 17:42 - Serving as a parish priest with Msgr. Bill Quinn 23:00 - The mission and mentorship of Cardinal Francis George 28:25 - Listener Question: How do we respond to critics who say that it's worthless to "send our thoughts and prayers" in times of crisis? Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

This is the second part of a series responding to a viral YouTube video titled "Aquinas and the Cosmological Arguments" (750,000+ views), which claims that Thomas Aquinas' arguments for God have been decisively refuted. But have they? Bishop Barron responds to the video and shows that when properly understood, Thomas' arguments are as strong today as ever before. A listener asks how the word "Gospel" would have been understood in the first century. SPECIAL: Pre-order the hardcover book today for just $19.95 (26% off) and free shipping. You'll also receive three bonus eBooks from Bishop Barron! Just click here to order. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction, background on Crash Course video 1:40 - Are Aquinas' first four arguments for God unimpressive because they don't lead to a personal God? 8:15 - Does Aquinas' argument for God allow for polytheism? 12:2o - Does Aquinas' argument for God allow God to be an egg, a turtle, or a big block of stone? 14:35 - Are there major flaws that make Aquinas' argument invalid? 16:45 - Is Aquinas' argument self-defeating, because God would require a cause? 21:05 - Do you have to believe Aquinas' arguments in order to believe in God? 26:30 - Question from listener: Was the word "Gospel" used often in Jesus' time? Bonus Resources Books Thomas Aquinas: Spiritual Master by Bishop Barron Aquinas: A Beginner's Guide by Edward Feser Five Proofs of the Existence of God by Edward Feser The Last Superstition: A Refutation of the New Atheism by Edward Feser Aquinas: An Introduction to the Life and Work of the Great Medieval Thinker by F. C. Copleston To Light a Fire on the Earth: Proclaiming Christ in a Secular Age by Bishop Barron Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

A viral YouTube video titled "Aquinas and the Cosmological Arguments" (750,000+ views) claims that Thomas Aquinas' arguments for God have been decisively refuted. But have they? Bishop Barron responds to the video and shows that when properly understood, Thomas' arguments are as strong today as ever before. A listener asks whether death is natural. SPECIAL: Pre-order the hardcover book today for just $19.95 (26% off) and free shipping. You'll also receive three bonus eBooks from Bishop Barron! Just click here to order. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction, Bishop Barron describes the Facebook headquarters 5:30 - Why have multiple proofs for God's existence? If a singular argument is truly a proof, should not one be sufficient? 8:44 - Where did Thomas Aquinas come up with these arguments? 12:50 - Do Aquinas's observations from nature hurt his argument given the fact that modern science has proven some of his examples to be inaccurate? 15:33 - What's wrong with using dominos to illustrate Aquinas's argument from motion? 26:50 - What's the difference between a hierarchal and a temporal causal series? And why is this so important for understanding Aquinas? 31:35 - Did the philosopher David Hume defeat Aquinas's arguments? 34:24 - Question from listener: Is death natural? Bonus Resources Books Thomas Aquinas: Spiritual Master by Bishop Barron Aquinas: A Beginner's Guide by Edward Feser Five Proofs of the Existence of God by Edward Feser The Last Superstition: A Refutation of the New Atheism by Edward Feser Aquinas: An Introduction to the Life and Work of the Great Medieval Thinker by F. C. Copleston To Light a Fire on the Earth: Proclaiming Christ in a Secular Age by Bishop Barron Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

Listen to Bishop Barron's talk at the Facebook HQ, which has already been heard over 275,000 times. Every day, millions of people argue about religion on social media. The comboxes of religious and atheist sites are among the most visited and the most heated in the virtual space. But few people really know how to have a good religious argument. Lots of energy, lots of sharp words, and lots of strong feelings are expressed. But rarely do we come across productive, rational argument about religion. Bishop Barron paves a way forward, showing how we all, believer and nonbeliever alike, can share better religious discussions. SPECIAL: Pre-order Bishop Barron's new hardcover book, To Light a Fire on the Earth, for just $19.95 (26% off) and free shipping. You'll also receive three bonus eBooks from Bishop Barron! Just click here to order. Bonus Resources Books To Light a Fire on the Earth: Proclaiming the Gospel in a Secular Age by Bishop Barron Thomas Aquinas: Spiritual Master by Bishop Barron

Bishop Barron has a new book coming out titled To Light a Fire on the Earth: Proclaiming Christ in a Secular Age. It's a book-length conversation between Bishop Barron and John Allen, Jr., the award-winning Vatican journalist, and touches on a wide range of subjects including God, atheism, social media, prayer, beauty, and why the Church matters today. In today's episode, John joins Bishop Barron to discuss the new book. SPECIAL: Pre-order the hardcover book today for just $19.95 (26% off) and free shipping. You'll also receive three bonus eBooks from Bishop Barron! Just click here to order. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction 1:40 - What were John Allen's first impressions about creating this book? 3:10 - What were Bishop Barron's first thoughts when the book was proposed to him? 4:00 - What parallels does John Allen see between Ven. Fulton Sheen and Bishop Barron 7:35 - Why did Bishop Barron start the book talking about beauty? 9:00 - How is Baseball helpful to understanding Catholicism 12:00 - How did one of Bishop Barron's professors in Paris shape his spirituality? 14:00 - What is Bishop Barron's three-fold path to holiness? 16:00 - What makes Bishop Barron different from other people John has interviewed for books? 19:00 - Will Word On Fire become a permanent movement in the life of the Church? 23:30 - How can Catholics proclaim the Gospel in a secular age? Bonus Resources Books To Light a Fire on the Earth: Proclaiming Christ in a Secular Age Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

Today (September 18), Bishop Barron will be speaking to Facebook employees at their headquarters in Menlo Park, CA, on "How to Have a Religious Argument." (The talk will be livestreamed on Bishop Barron's Facebook page from 6:00pm-7:00pm ET.) Every day, millions of people argue about religion on social media. The comboxes of religious and atheist sites are among the most visited and the most heated in the virtual space. But what Bishop Robert Barron finds interesting is how few people really know how to have a good religious argument. There is a lot of energy, lots of sharp words, and lots of strong feelings expressed. But rarely do we come across productive, rational argument about religion. Bishop Barron paves a way forward, showing how we all, believer and nonbeliever alike, can share better religious discussions. SPECIAL: Pre-order the hardcover book today for just $19.95 (26% off) and free shipping. You'll also receive three bonus eBooks from Bishop Barron! Just click here to order. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Introduction about the talk 1:15 - Bill Maher as an example of how NOT to have a religious argument 2:40 - How is learning to trust a person an example of coming to faith? 6:30 - What is the number one block to having a good religious argument? 9:58 - What is voluntarism, and how does it block good religious argument? 16:15 - How does understanding your opponent's position helpful in having a religious argument? How is Thomas Aquinas an expert in this? 23:50 - What is the significance of Bishop Barron speaking at Facebook? 26:00 - Question from listener: How can the Catholic Church claim the fullness of truth when other religions claim the same? Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

There seems to be a divide in the Catholic Church between so-called "pro-life" Catholic and so-called "social justice" Catholics. Where did this come from? How do we heal this split? That's what Bishop Barron discusses in this episode. A listener asks how to respond when a beggar asks for money on the street. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Intro: Ingrid Goes West and Facebook announcement 3:45 - How did the Pro-Life movement and the Social Justice movement become divided? 5:55 - How should the "both/and" quality of Catholicism address this great separation? 7:00 - What does "social justice" mean in the Catholic tradition? 9:15 - Should the Pro-Life and Social Justice movements be equally emphasized in the life of the Church? 13:20 - How do we heal the divide between these two groups of Catholics? 14:55 - How can the saints help provide a path forward? 17:00 - How does Pope Francis balance the priority of these two issues? 19:32 - Question from listener: How should Catholics react to beggars on the street? Bonus Resources Study Program David the King Websites Bishop Barron's Facebook page Word On Fire DavidTheKing.com Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

Every now and then, articles and surveys pop up suggesting that religious people are, by whatever criteria, dumber than then general population—or at least dumber than atheists. Today Bishop Barron responds to this and the charge that religion has a "smart-people problem." A listener asks about new ecclesial movements in the Church. Also, be sure to take advantage of our Word on Fire Show listener sale! ENTER PROMO CODE: DAVID to save $10 on our newest film at DavidTheKing.com Topics Discussed 0:05 - Intro and Catholic podcast recommendations 1:30 - Bishop Barron's initial reaction to the articles claiming that religion has a smart-people problem. 5:00 - What does it say about religion when studies show that most scientists are atheists? 8:30 - Is it worrisome that most professional philosophers are atheists? 12:00 - Does it matter that most religious philosophers are theists? 13:30 - How does the culture feel about religious people, are they considered childish and simple-minded? 17:50 - What does historical evidence tell us about the relationship between science and religion? 19:30 - Question from listener: What's your take on Communion and Liberation and other ecclesial movements in the Church? Bonus Resources Study Program CATHOLICISM: The New Evangelization Leader's Kit David the King Articles "Religion's Smart-People Problem: The Shaky Intellectual Foundations of Absolute Faith" (Salon) "A Scientist Looked Through 63 Studies to Conclude Atheists are More Intelligent than Religious People" (Indy 100) "Atheists More Intelligent Because They Can Override "Instinctive" Religious Beliefs—But It Will Be Their Downfall" (Newsweek) "Religion's Smart-People Problem: The Shaky Intellectual Foundations of Absolute Faith" (Salon) Videos Bill Nye and Philosophy Atheism and Philosophy Scientism and God's Existence Websites Word On Fire DavidTheKing.com Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

What is beauty? Is beauty undefinable and entirely relativistic? Or is beauty an objective reality, backed by reason and understanding? How do Catholics define beauty, and how has Catholic Church evangelized through beauty over the centuries? In this episode of the Word On Fire Show, Bishop Barron answers these questions and more about the transcendental nature of beauty. The listener question comes from Argentina and wonders how art might be used in evangelization? Also, be sure to take advantage of our Word on Fire Show listener sale! ENTER PROMO CODE: DAVID to save $10 on our newest film at DavidTheKing.com Topics Discussed 0:05 - Intro, a Cardinal visits and the sun eclipses 4:00 - Why has Bishop Barron considered beauty the privileged route of evangelization? 8:25 - What is beauty? 10:55 - What three things combine to make something beautiful? 15:55 - Why do some people disagree about a masterpiece being beautiful? 19:20 - How can someone be transformed by beauty? 24:14 - What was a profound moment of beauty in Bishop Barron's life? 25:43 - Question from listener: How can the arts aid in evangelization? Bonus Resources Study Program CATHOLICISM: The New Evangelization Leader's Kit David the King Articles "A Strategy for the New Evangelization" (Bishop Barron) "The New Evangelization and Seminaries" (Bishop Barron) "Effective Evangelization Commences with Joy" (Bishop Barron) "Practical Strategies of the New Evangelization" (Bishop Barron) Videos New Media and Evangelization Effective Evangelization Confirmation and Evangelization Evangelizing with the Heart of a Shepherd Theology and the New Media Books The Priority of Christ: Toward a Postliberal Catholicism by Bishop Robert Barron Word on Fire: Proclaiming the Power of Christ by Bishop Robert Barron Seeds of the Word: Finding God in the Culture by Bishop Robert Barron Bridging the Great Divide by Bishop Robert Barron Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce Websites Word On Fire DavidTheKing.com Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

What really happens when we die? In a recent interview with Larry King, popular astro-physicist, Neil deGrasse Tyson, offers a scientifically reduced answer to this philosophically rich question. In this episode of the Word On Fire Show, Bishop Barron reacts to Tyson's response and offers a more holistic understanding of human identity and death. A listener asks how God can be both a person and the sheer act of "to be" itself. Love the show? Want more people to listen? Take two seconds to leave us a review! Click HERE to leave your review now! Topics Discussed 0:04 - Intro: Bishop Barron speaks at a tech conference 1:30 - Explaining the interview and Tyson's explanation of physical death 5:20 - Are scientists seen as the new priests? 8:10 - What happens when you die besides the obvious scientific realities? 10:00 - Why do atheists still cling to moral values? 11:09 - Does culminating as meat for maggots offer a sense of eternal fulfillment? 12:30 - Tyson's explanation of our annihilation upon death. 14:55 - Is it a wish fulfilling fantasy to desire consciousness after death? 20:00 - Would anyone really want to live forever? 22:30 - What really happens when we die according to Christians? 25:25 - Question from listener: How can God be both a person and the sheer act of "to be" itself? Bonus Resources Articles "The Myth of the War Between Science and Religion" (Bishop Barron) "Does Religion Have a 'Smart-People' Problem?" (Bishop Barron) "The Theory of Everything: A God-Haunted Film" (Bishop Barron) "Cosmos and One More Telling of the Tired Myth" (Bishop Barron) Videos Neil deGrasse Tyson's interview with Larry King Hey Bill Nye, 'Does Science Have All the Answers or Should We Do Philosophy Too?' Atheism and Philosophy Bishop Barron on The Theory of Everything Bishop Barron on Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey Has Science Refuted Aristotelian Causality? Scientism and God's Existence Stephen Hawking and Atheism Fr. George Coyne and the Fertile Cosmos Books The Soul's Upward Yearning by Fr. Robert Spitzer The Priority of Christ by Bishop Robert Barron Websites WordOnFire.org StrangeNotions.com Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

Normally, in each episode we take one listener question. But we've received such a large number of outstanding questions from around the globe that we've decided to devote another episode to answering a range of questions from listeners like you. Bishop Barron answers several questions, rapid fire, on many different topics. Topics Discussed 0:05 - Intro: Bishop Barron returns from his CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players film trip 2:00 - Should we feel guilty for not giving away all of our possessions and serving the poorest of the poor? 5:10 - If there are aliens, did Jesus appear to them as well? 7:45 - What is the difference between the Ascension and the Assumption? 9:45 - Why do we take both the Bread and the Wine in Communion? 13:20 - When does venting turn into gossip, and how do we avoid gossiping? 18:45 - Where is Jesus' body today? 24:25 - What might Jesus say about dealing with a bad breakup? 26:45 - What resources should Catholics read to understand Martin Luther? Bonus Resources Study Guides CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players - Leader's Guide (Bishop Barron) CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players - Study Guide (Bishop Barron) CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players - Leaders Kit (Bishop Barron) DVDs CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players (Bishop Barron) Books Catholicism: A Journey to the Heart of the Faith by Bishop Barron Seeds of the Word: Finding God in the Culture by Bishop Barron Vibrant Paradoxes: The Both/And of Catholicism by Bishop Barron Praying with the Pivotal Players by Bishop Barron Thomas Aquinas: Spiritual Master by Bishop Barron Find bonus links and resources for this episode at http://WordOnFireShow.com and be sure to submit your questions at http://AskBishopBarron.

Bishop Barron is flying back from Europe after his Pivotal Players recording trip, so instead of a live show, we're bringing you a special excerpt from his upcoming "David the King" series. Learn about Hannah and the "law of the gift" in this stirring commentary. Also, be sure to visit DavidTheKing.com and use the coupon code DAVID to save $10 on the DVD or Blu-ray version of the series! Bonus Resources DVDs + Study Programs David the King (Bishop Barron) Websites Word On Fire DavidTheKing.com