Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Hi Father Josh! I was introduced to your podcast a few months ago and I love everything that you do! Your spontaneous singing makes me laugh out loud and your straightforward, digestible answers to Catholic questions have helped me grow very much in my faith. I apologize if this question has been asked before since I’ve only heard a few episodes, but it’s something that’s been a stumbling block for me in the past. I was wondering what the Church’s teaching is on God always having a male pronoun and being described/depicted as an (often old, white) man. I know it is very complicated and tied up with the human understanding of divinity, biblical phrasing, and so much more, but maybe you can clarify a bit on how God is always described as a man. I was also wondering if and how a Catholic should respond when people, jokingly or not, call God a woman or change His supposed gender in some way. Thanks so much and love the work you’re doing!

-Anonymous

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Naming Children

Hey Fr. Josh! I have so loved listening to your podcast and find so much fruit from it. I’m currently 6 months pregnant with my first baby and having grown up Southern Baptist and converting in college, Catholic Baptism is still a bit mysterious to me. As my husband and I prepare to Welcome our small human to the world and the Church, how should we discern their patron Saint? I have a few ideas, but since this is my first I’m honestly not sure. Her name will be Sarah Elizabeth, and while I know these are both Saints of the Bible, I’m not sure if either is the right name to baptize her with (or honestly what that truly means). I look forward to hearing from you every week! Keep blessing souls.

-Anonymous

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Hello Father Josh!

Let me start out by saying you are such an incredible blessing to so many! God has truly sent you to help those in need. You are so relatable, and it is wonderful and very encouraging. I will continue to pray for you and your family.
My question or concern is this. A number of years ago, in my 20’s, I was at a very low point. I was depressed and searching for what I hoped would be real love. I found myself continuing to make the same mistake repeatedly, by sleeping with these men I’d date sometimes only briefly. I am so incredibly ashamed and disappointed in myself. Though I have confessed these sins on multiple occasions during Confession, I can’t ever forgive myself. I do believe God most likely forgives me, but am also deeply afraid of the recourse I will have to pay for these mistakes. I am frightened of the suffering in purgatory, though I know I deserve the consequences and to be made clean before entering Heaven. It was such a sad time in my life, and I shied away from what was right. I am just wondering, does it offend God that I don’t forgive myself? Will I suffer immensely for these sins? Can I do anything to earn penance while on Earth? I know we must pay for our sins and that He died for ours. But I can’t help but to feel scared of dying because of this. Any insight would be greatly appreciated!

God Bless you.

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Welcome to Ask Fr. Josh - Summer Snippets! During the next few months, some of the most popular questions from the archives will be released as short snippets. Enjoy!

Question:
I have had 3 cervical spine fusions over 5 years and due to the amount of medication I’ve been taking I have begun to do a small amount of damage to my liver. 2 of my specialists have recommended medicinal marijuana but I feel so guilty doing it. My family is supportive but I feel ashamed. I have taken Percocet but do not like the side effect and again it’s another pill that can lead to damage to my liver. I’ve also begun to drink beer and wine to alleviate the pain. My question is should I use my medicinal marijuana for pain or is this a sin? I feel as though I’m running out of options.
-Anonymous

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What do you do if your spouse isn’t praying, going to Mass, or living the faith at all? Many people find themselves in the position where their spouse is non-Catholic or not practicing the faith. This can be incredibly difficult both as a spouse and as a parent. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Deacon Michael Parker to discuss what to do in this kind of situation. They share how you can work to evangelize your spouse without nagging or creating animosity in the relationship.

Snippet From the Show
It is essential that we share the goodness of the Lord through our words and our actions.

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Just as we would prioritize a vacation with our family or our husband or our wife, we ought to also prioritize a getaway with God. In today’s episode, Fr. Josh Johnson encourages us to get away, break our routines, and listen to the voice of God. He unfolds how important retreats are for him in his walk with God, and how life-changing different types of retreats can be for us, no matter what state of life we find ourselves in. 
Snippet From the Show
If God is important to us, then God deserves to be on our calendar.

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It is essential for every spouse to learn how best to love their husband or wife. To discuss how husbands want to be loved, Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Deacon Michael Parker. Together, they talk through some of the ways that men tend to feel most loved. They also touch on the importance of communication and vulnerability when it comes to spouses learning how to best love one another.

Snippet From the Show
Receive your spouse as the gift they are.

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Does being Christian mean that you need to live a solitary, boring, or unhappy life? Looking at the lives of holy men and women, it can appear that the majority of their lives were suffering and solitude. Does this mean that “fun” has no place in the Christian life? Fr. Josh Johnson takes up this question in today’s episode.

Snippet From the Show
“Faith is our source of joy. We believe in a God who created us so that we might enjoy human happiness - in some measure on earth, in its fullness in heaven. We are meant to have our human joys: the joy of living, the joy of love and friendship, the joy of work well done.” -St. John Paul II

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Is there a right way to make decisions? How people make decisions may look different depending on what season of life they are in. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Deacon Michael Parker to discuss some best practices when it comes to making decisions, especially in a marriage.

Snippet From the Show
When you bring prayer into your decision making, you can trust that Christ is at the center.

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What do you know about the apparitions of Međugorje? Although these apparitions are not yet approved, there are many who have traveled to the site and been convicted in their faith. Fr. Josh Johnson shares about his own experiences with Međugorje and explains the difference between private and public revelation.

Snippet From the Show
Authentic apparitions don’t add anything to our faith. They simply emphasize something that is already present in the ordinary teachings of the Church.

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Fitness is a pretty big deal in the culture today. Whether it's diet, working out, or supplementing, many people invest their time and money in it. But what is their motivation? Fr. Josh Johnson and Deacon Michael Parker discuss the goals of fitness and what sort of motivation should exist behind those goals.

Snippet From the Show
“Life and physical health are precious gifts entrusted to us by God. We must take reasonable care of them, taking into account the needs of others and the common good” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, Paragraph 2288)

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Is it difficult for you to see other people happy and enjoying their lives? It is common for people to struggle with jealousy or wanting what other people have. However, envy goes a step further than jealousy. Fr. Josh explains what envy is and how we can overcome it.

Snippet From the Show
Love without expecting anything in return.

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Can a woman be a mother and also work? It is the responsibility of all parents to discern what is best for their children, for their family. Part of this discernment typically involves deciding whether one parent stays home or both parents work. This decision is not always easy or straightforward. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Deacon Michael Parker to talk about this decision and what proper discernment looks like.

Snippet From the Show
At every stage of life, we are called to discern what God’s will is for our lives. As parents, we must also discern what is best for our children.

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Death is often marked by sadness and loss. For many, death is something fearful. However, there is a way to have a happy death. Fr. Josh Johnson responds to the question, “How does a person die well?” He offers advice on dying well and an example of an individual who died well.

Snippet From the Show
Keep death always before your eyes.

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How do parents decide what is best for their children when it comes to education? There are a number of different choices and it isn’t always easy to know which is the right one. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Deacon Michael Parker to discuss some of the key factors to consider when making decisions about education.

Snippet From the Show
Pursuing the best education for children very often requires sacrifices of their parents.

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How can I defend the Catholic Church? There are people within the Church who have done horrible things and treated people badly. These people can make others question whether or not they should support and defend the Church. Fr. Josh Johnson responds to this question and shares why Christians should defend the Church.

Snippet From the Show
“The Church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints.”

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What should I focus on during engagement? As you prepare for your wedding day, you are also preparing for your marriage. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Deacon Michael Parker to discuss some of the key priorities for engagement that will help you truly prepare for marriage.

Snippet From the Show
Cultivating relationships with married couples who are in different seasons of life can be incredibly beneficial to your own marriage. Learn from other couples and allow them to support you.

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The conversations regarding women deacons has caused a lot of confusion amongst Catholics. Can women be deacons or not? Fr. Josh Johnson addresses this question by looking at the history of the Church and her teachings on the topic.

Snippet From the Show
We need to listen and be formed by the teachings of the Church.

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Are you lonely? Although the world has never been more connected because of social media, texting, and other technology, it seems like many people are lonely. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss why social media is not fulfilling and can negatively impact us. They also share who it is that will satisfy the longing of our hearts to be known and loved.

Snippet From the Show
If we don’t seek to encounter the love of God daily, we look for it elsewhere.

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What are you willing to do for someone you love? Very often, love requires us to make sacrifices and experience difficulties. Such is the case with prayer so often. In order to have time with God in prayer, we may need to make sacrifices. Fr. Josh shares what these sacrifices may look like and why it is so worth it.

Snippet From the Show
Prayer is not always a comfortable thing. But it is always worth it because in prayer we encounter God and his love.

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Life gets tough. There is suffering, discomfort, and heartbreak. It seems like there is always something to complain about. So, is it ok to complain? Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss whether or not Christians can complain. Is there a holy way to complain?

Snippet From the Show
Jesus Christ has suffered it all. He knows our suffering intimately and wants to be in our suffering with us.

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Violence and war are just some of the evils that are present in our world today. If you watch the news or scroll on social media, it can seem like there is nothing but bad in the world. So, how can you be happy in such a place? Is it possible or even right to be happy? Fr. Josh addresses this question and offers advice on how to find happiness even in the storms of life.

Snippet From the Show
When we focus more on the storm than on Jesus, we will be overcome with anxiety.

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Friendship is incredibly important, but how do you make good friends and maintain those friendships? Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss the importance of deep friendships and how we can find them. They share their thoughts and what to avoid in friendships and what to value.

Snippet From the Show
In a virtuous friendship, you desire to accompany one another towards the ultimate good which is Heaven.

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This may be the #1 question that Fr. Josh gets asked: “How do I bring my children back to the Church?” This is a question that lies in the hearts of so many parents in the Church today. This desire is good and a sign of true love for their children. Fr. Josh explains how to help bring children back to Church and love them well in the process.

Snippet From the Show
We don’t bring our loved ones back to the Church. It is God who draws them back. Then they, with their free will, respond to God’s grace.

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What do two celibates have to say about intimacy in marriage? Quite a bit! Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss the importance of intimacy in marriage. Together, they share the abundant knowledge they have gained by counseling couples and individuals over many years.

Snippet From the Show
Your spouse is a mystery that is continuously being revealed to you. Therefore, it is essential that you look at your spouse again and again so that you may continue to know them and love them more deeply.

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Does the Eucharist feel approachable? Do you believe that the Eucharist is personal? Sometimes, it can seem unclear how we are meant to interact and approach the Eucharist. How “put together” do I need to be in order to participate in Communion? Fr. Josh Johnson takes on these questions and offers encouragement for how we can make the Eucharist more central in our lives.

Snippet From the Show
The point of Mass is not to receive the Eucharist. The purpose of Mass is to worship God.

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Death is part of life, but so many of us live with a fear of death. Why? What is it about death that instills fear in so many people? Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to respond to this question and offer stories from their own lives to show how death can be a good.

Snippet From the Show
For some, a fear of death can arise from a fear of missing out. We desire to leave a legacy and witness the lives of our children and grandchildren. These desires can contribute to a fear of death.

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Friendships can be difficult and tumultuous but can also bring so much goodness to our lives. So, how do you strive for good friendship? How do you handle conflict or talking through difficult topics with friends? Fr. Josh offers his insight and advice for navigating the challenges in friendship.

Snippet From the Show
“You must be willing to lose a friendship for the sake of their salvation.”

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How do you give “the talk” to your kids? Parents have a massive responsibility to inform and educate their children on matters of sexuality, dignity, and so much more. Fr. Josh Johnson is joined by Sr. Josephine Garrett to discuss the importance of talking to your child about these matters and how to do it right.

Snippet From the Show
"If we know the world is pursuing our children to form them in lies about the gift of the body and sexuality, we need to step in front of the lie."

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Welcome back to a brand new season of Ask Fr. Josh! In this episode, Fr. Josh addresses the difficulties of dating. So many people have questions about how to date and how to date well. Fr. Josh offers advice on how to have a healthy approach to dating.

Snippet From the Show
As good as people are, they are not God. They are finite beings. Our hearts have an infinite longing and that longing can only be satiated by God.

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Have you ever heard someone say that “social justice” is not Christian? Today, Fr. Josh addresses the topic of “social justice” and whether or not it is Christian. He also responds to the use of social media and the discernment one should use when sharing thoughts and ideas on those platforms.

Snippet From the Show
Prior to speaking publicly on important matters, it is essential that we form our hearts and minds.

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Does the Song of Solomon say that being black is a sign of sinfulness? Song of Solomon 1:5 can be confusing to read, but Fr. Josh is here to explain this passage from Scripture. Fr. Josh also shares about a beatified priest from Brazil who is a great example of someone who prayed for his persecutors.

Snippet From the Show
“Christ never gives up on us. So, we too can never give up on people.”

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Is it ok to participate in new age practices like tarot cards, reiki sessions, or the use of crystals? Fr. Josh shares what the Church teaches when it comes to new age practices. He also describes the harm that can come from participating in these practices. Fr. Josh shares what the Church recommends to combat the evil in our world.
Snippet From the Show
These practices have the capacity and potential to open us up to things that are not good for us or our community.

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Can a priest share my sins? Confession, telling our sins to a priest, can be really intimidating. However, Fr. Josh shares about the seal of confession and how seriously it is held by the Church. Fr. Josh also shares about two priests who died in order to keep the seal of confession.

Snippet From the Show
If there was a chance that a person’s sins could be revealed, they would not go to confession.

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How are we supposed to evangelize? What does it even mean to evangelize? Fr. Josh addresses this question and encourages all of us to dive more deeply into a life of evangelization. Fr. Josh also shares about a saint who used her profession to evangelize in an extraordinary way.

Snippet From the Show
Whether you are a doctor, teacher, or a stay at home parent, God will use what you do in life to bring others to himself.

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What was the birth of Jesus like for Mary? Some people argue that Mary experienced labor and delivery like any other woman. Others argue that she felt no pain. But what does the Church say? Fr. Josh answers that question in today’s episode.

Snippet From the Show
“Our Mother Mary is full of beauty because she is full of grace.” -Pope Francis

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What is Divine Mercy? You may have heard mention of Divine Mercy Sunday or perhaps you have prayed the chaplet. But where does the devotion to Divine Mercy come from? Fr. Josh answers this question and shares about the saint who established it.

Snippet From the Show
There is no excuse for anyone not to become a saint. God is offering his love and mercy to everyone until the very end.

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How do priests pray? Fr. Josh responds to a listener question regarding the spiritual life of a priest and what requirements are placed on a diocesan priest for prayer. Additionally, Fr. Josh shares the story of an unnamed saint to emphasize the importance of a daily Holy Hour.

Snippet From the Show
We have to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Adoration of Christ is imitation of Christ.

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Why do we hear the Passion narrative twice during Holy Week? And who gets to participate in proclaiming those Gospels? Fr. Josh answers these questions in today’s episode. He also shares about an incredible woman who is on her way to canonization.

Snippet From the Show
To help prepare yourself and enter into it more fully, take the time to meditate on the readings prior to Mass.

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The rosary is not just a prayer that grandmas and nuns pray. The rosary is a powerful and essential prayer for everyone’s spiritual life. Today, Fr. Josh is joined by Dr. Mike Scherschligt to discuss the power of the rosary. Dr. Mike also shares about his own faith journey and his mission to get as many people to pray the rosary as possible.

Snippet From the Show
When we accept the reality that Jesus Christ is real, we have to make changes in our lives.

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Are there particular ways we should pray during the Lenten season? Lent is a great season to make new efforts in growing our relationship with God. Today, Fr. Josh shares ideas for some of the ways we could pray during the Lenten season.

Snippet From the Show
During the Lenten season, it is really beautiful to accompany Jesus in his suffering, in his Passion.

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What does it mean to be envious of someone? Envy is one of the seven deadly sins and Fr. Josh explains why in today’s episode. He also walks through an examination to help you understand areas in your life where you may struggle with envy.

Snippet From the Show
It can be a lifelong battle to break free from vice, but we must remember that God is faithful to us and desires our freedom.

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What are some of the primary sins that people struggle with? As we strive for virtue, it is important that we regularly examine our lives and realize where we struggle so that we can strive to break free from sin. Today, Fr. Josh addresses the topic of the seven deadly sins and identifies why people struggle with some in particular.

Snippet From the Show
Focus on what Christ has done in your life. Focus on his love for you.

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What does it mean to be virtuous? Virtue is a word that is mentioned often when talking about faith and the lives of the saints. However, do we understand what it means? Today, Fr. Josh is joined by author Andrew Whitmore to talk about the virtuous life and also discuss Andrew’s new book Saintly Habits: Aquinas' 7 Simple Strategies You Can Use to Grow in Virtue.

Snippet From the Show
When you aren’t able to overcome a challenge, it takes great courage to endure it instead.

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How do you find authentic happiness? Every person has a desire to be happy, but it isn’t always clear how to attain it. Today, Fr. Josh shares what Scripture tells us in regards to finding happiness.

Snippet From the Show
We can find happiness by turning to the Word of God instead of seeking it in the world.

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What does it mean to forgive like Christ does? Jesus tells us to forgive others, but what exactly does that look like? What is required of us in order to truly forgive someone? Fr. Josh answers these questions and offers an example of a woman who forgave in an incredible way.

Snippet From the Show
The more we look at Jesus, the better we can imitate him.

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What are our responsibilities when it comes to caring for our parents? As we get older, so do our parents. In this episode, Fr. Josh explains the duty we have to our parents but also how our relationships with our parents change as we get older. He also shares two stories of people that can be examples to us when it comes to caring for parents and the elderly.

Snippet From the Show
To be Christian means to imitate Christ in all that we do.

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Are you ever confused or hurt when you hear that a priest has left the priesthood? Fr. Josh takes on this issue in today’s podcast. He explains some of the more common reasons why a priest might leave the priesthood. Fr. Josh shares the impact this can have on others and offers advice on how to respond in these situations.

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Prayer helps to suppress our vices and helps us persevere in our relationship with God. Prayer is essential in sustaining us.

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Is there such a thing as “red flags” when it comes to discerning religious life? Fr. Josh responds to a listener’s question regarding best practices when discerning religious life. He shares advice on what to look for and how to get to know different religious communities.

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As individuals, we are in constant need of reformation.

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If you are baptized, do you automatically go to Heaven? Do you have to be baptized in order to get to Heaven? In this episode, Fr. Josh answers a question about baptism and how it is linked to salvation. He addresses some of the different situations that can arise when it comes to baptism or the lack of baptism.

Snippet From the Show
We are created to be in relationship with Christ. It is essential that we participate in that relationship.

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Why do we sing the psalms in Mass? In this episode, Fr. Josh explains why the psalms are most commonly sung and how singing can actually benefit our prayer. He also dives into the life of the author of the psalms: King David.

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“Have mercy on me God in your kindness and blot out my offense.” Psalm 51

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It is good for spouses to pray together, but how do you do it? What if one spouse is not as interested in praying together as the other? Fr. Josh shares the importance of praying together and also gives some advice and ideas on how to do it.

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Creating a habit of prayer will foster and facilitate a rule of life that will help you mature in holiness.

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Fr. Josh explains what an Ordinary Eucharistic Minister and Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister is, and when it's appropriate to use Extraordinary Ministers. He also shares the proper way to receive Jesus in the Eucharist and young St. Tarcisius' story.

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When we are invited to bring Jesus in Holy Communion to those who are not able to come to Mass, it is a time of profound seriousness because who we are bringing.

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Want to be a part of giving Father Josh’s students the chance to encounter Jesus in Adoration in their own Chapel? Click here!

Fr. Josh answers a question about building bridges through Christlike relationships with our Protestant brothers and sisters. He also encourages us to dive into Scripture this Advent by following the example of St. Joseph, a man also rooted in the Word of God.
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Jesus said in the Gospel to go out and make disciples of all nations, of all people. Jesus didn't say to go and make disciples of fellow Catholics, but all people.

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"It wasn't what I thought it would be." In this special Thanksgiving episode, Father Josh assures those who may be "poor in spirit" during this holiday season, inviting us to be so rooted in the love of God, that God's love is enough for us. God is all we need.
Snippet From the Show
No matter what happens at Thanksgiving or what doesn't happen at Thanksgiving, we are not disturbed and we are not moved, because God is sufficient. 

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Why is it that only priests are able to consecrate the Eucharist in the Mass? In this episode, Fr. Josh explains the Scriptural teachings as well as the teachings handed down by the Church behind this, and we also the story of St. Charles de Foucald, who teaches us to listen to the voice of God, to follow where he leads us, and to trust he will sustain us in our ministry and in our daily life.
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Even though the fruits of our labors may be invisible, God is still present and still working.

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Do you have a Rosary that is broken or a Bible that is worn out? Fr. Josh walks us through how to dispose of sacramentals that we no longer have need of or are no longer functional. He also introduces us to St. Vitalis of Gaza, a hermetic monk who teaches us always to assume the best in the intentions of others.
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The way we treat a sacramental is effectively the same way we treat people. Every member of the Body of Christ is important, and sacramentals are important as well.

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How do we choose the devotion that's best for us to become a saint in our walk toward eternity? In this episode Fr. Josh encourages us not to compare ourselves to others or even our past self, but to choose devotions appropriate for whatever season of life we’re in. We also hear the courageous story of St. Jacinta and how her love for the devotion of the Rosary set many hearts ablaze for Christ.
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All devotions are a path to intimacy with Christ. But how has the Lord invited you to listen to him, to speak with him, to sit with him, to look at him and to be seen by him right now?

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What good can come from suffering? In this episode, Fr. Josh answers a question about praying in the midst of suffering, encouraging us to receive it as an invitation rather than just pain. He also introduces us to Blessed Benedetta Bianchi Porro, who strived to do just that.
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How is God the Father inviting you to abide with Jesus right now in this present moment?

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When we pray, can we pray to the saints? Or should we focus our attention solely on Jesus? Fr. Josh explains what it means to pray to the saints and when to ask for their prayers.

Snippet From the Show
The saints are the Body of Jesus Christ, just as we are the Body of Christ.

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What is the difference between individualism and individuality? We are not called to live for ourselves alone, but aren’t we also told to cultivate and use our individual talents? Fr. Josh takes on these questions in today’s episode.

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How each of us is called to be a saint will look different because each of us is different.

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Do you ever find yourself compartmentalizing your faith? In our culture today, it can be very easy to leave our faith at church or in Bible Study. However, Fr. Josh encourages you to bring your faith everywhere…even Bachelor/Bachelorette parties and to the workplace.

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Do not be mediocre. Instead, live radically for Jesus Christ.

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Fr. Josh answers a question regarding the reception of communion with other Christian denominations. He discusses both attending their services and receiving communion and whether it is permissible or not.

Snippet From the Show
The Sacrifice of the Mass is irreplaceable.

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Can I work at a company that supports movements or organizations that are not in line with my beliefs? Fr. Josh answers this question and offers advice on how to discern if your place of work is the right place for you to be. Fr. Josh also shares about a married couple who are on the path to canonization.

Snippet From the Show
When God the Father looks at us, he sees us as a gift.

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Did you know that each of us is called to serve our parish in a particular way? Sometimes it can be daunting to figure out how God wants us to serve. In this episode, Fr. Josh gives tips and suggestions on how to discern God’s will in this matter.

Snippet From the Show
Discernment cannot happen if you are not invested in the sacraments.

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What do we believe and why do we believe it? This week, Fr. Josh is joined by special guest Sarah Swafford to discuss the new series What We Believe. Sarah shares some of her favorite aspects of the series and why this series is so important for people today.

Snippet From the Show
Let the stirring of your heart be illuminated by your mind.

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Have you ever wondered what the difference is between Anointing of the Sick and Last Rites? Fr. Josh shares about each one and explains their differences. Fr. Josh also shares about an incredible young man who not only lived a life for God, but also gives us a great example of a holy death.

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When you receive the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, you receive spiritual strength from God.

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Welcome back to this new season of Ask Fr. Josh! In this episode, Fr. Josh responds to a question on how the saints are able to hear us when we pray to them. He also shares about a saint who we can look to to help us break boundaries and serve the Lord beyond our own capacity.

Snippet From the Show
We were created for Jesus and only he will satisfy us.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions on bringing children to Mass, praying the Stations of the Cross outside of Lent, and understanding rules around altar servers.

Snippet From the Show
Jesus is always inviting you to enter more deeply into the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions about wearing Catholic apparel and accessories, whether or not it is ok to “treat yourself,” and what makes a Baptism valid.

Snippet From the Show
We have to take care of ourselves so that we can pour ourselves out for others.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions on how to develop Catholic friendships, what to do with obstacles to entering the Church, and having a desire for Heaven.

Snippet From the Show
If you pursue Jesus and the sacraments, God will provide the grace you need to face any obstacles.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions about whether or not there are tears in Heaven, Mary feeling anger, and how to work through scrupulosity.

Snippet From the Show
In Heaven, we will see things as God sees them.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions about donating your body to science, Old Testament Saints, and the story of Veronica. Fr. Josh also shares some of the fruits of his recent trip to Italy.

Snippet From the Show
We are called to imitate the virtues of the saints so that we can persevere in our walk toward Heaven.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh and guest Lisa Cotter discuss the desire (or lack thereof) for motherhood, how we can be like Mary, and what are some of their favorite female saints. Lisa also shares a little about her new book Reveal the Gift: Living the Feminine Genius.

Snippet From the Show
There is so much freedom in how femininity can be expressed and how feminine gifts can be lived.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh and guest Fr. Pine discuss signs from God, what to do with fear in discernment, and how to be patient with someone who is indecisive. Fr. Pine also shares about his new book: Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly.

Snippet From the Show
Sometimes the Lord prompts us to ask for a sign, and sometimes the Lord asks us to trust and to choose.

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From Assisi, Italy, Fr. Josh offers an encouraging message for this Holy Week. Fr. Josh says that each of us needs to make prayer a priority and simply sit with the Lord and be with him.

Snippet From the Show
Sit, watch, and pray.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions about speaking in tongues and the differences between sacred art and pornography.

Snippet From the Show
We are all invited to see the human body as a gift and not an object to be used.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions on how to respond to untrue words of condolence and what the parameters are for celebrating during Lent. Fr. Josh also offers advice on how to offer condolence to those who have experienced a miscarriage.

Snippet From the Show
God is inviting us to want Heaven for everyone.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about the use of optional prayers in Mass, the purpose of Marian apparitions, and ways to encourage others to read Scripture.

Snippet From the Show
Be about what God’s about.

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In this episode, Fr. Josh and guest Fr. Lampert discuss the topic of exorcisms, how to avoid the demonic, and how to be liberated from any connection with the demonic.

Snippet From the Show
We may walk away from the Lord, but he never abandons us.

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Fr. Josh answers questions on whether or not you have to listen to the homily at Mass, what the some of the different charisms in religious orders are, and what Lent should look like for an expectant mother.

Snippet From the Show
Before we complain about life circumstances, go to Jesus and be open to his response.

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Fr. Josh is joined by special guest Dr. Mario Sacasa. They answer questions on how to discuss the discernment of marriage in a relationship, when and how to share your past, what to do when the person you have feelings for does not draw you closer to God, and how to set appropriate boundaries in a relationship.

Snippet From the Show
If it's not for my holiness, it is not for me.

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Fr. Josh answers questions on how to find a good retreat, the purpose of wearing a prayer scarf (or mantilla), and what are some good resources for Lent.

Snippet From the Show
Fasting should turn you to prayer; and the fruit of prayer ought to be almsgiving.

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Fr. Josh answers questions regarding a person’s responsibility to care for their parents, whether or not Christians should read Harry Potter, and what are the correct modes for receiving Holy Communion.

Snippet From the Show
“The Word of God must order our steps in our walk to eternity.”

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Fr. Josh answers questions regarding the authority and leadership of women in the Church, what it means for wives to be submissive to their husbands, and how to talk with loved ones about the right reception of Holy Communion.

Snippet From the Show
Because I am in love with Christ, I care about what he cares about.

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Fr. Josh answers regarding the issue of syncretism, how to face rejection when pursuing your vocation, and how to use Natural Family Planning (NFP) appropriately in marriage.

Snippet From the Show
“You are seen. You are known. You are wanted by God.”

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Fr. Josh answers questions regarding the use of medical marijuana, why an individual person does not possess all the spiritual gifts, and finally the reward of holiness and the sacrifices we make in our relationship with Jesus Christ.

Snippet From the Show
"We avoid sin because we’ve come to know the one who our hearts were created for."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about traveling with your significant other before marriage, how to prune long prayer lists when interceding for others, and how to charitably correct friends or family members who are not living virtuously.

Snippet From the Show

"The fruit of our belief system is our behavior."

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Fr. Josh answers questions on emotional chastity, growing in compassion, and seeing Christ in others.

Snippet From the Show
By the virtue of my Baptism, I am the Body of the Christ. When the Father sees me, the Father sees his beloved Son.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about what our prayers do for the souls in purgatory, why St. Michael the Archangel is considered a saint, and what was Jesus' nature as the Second Person of the Trinity before the incarnation.

Snippet From the Show

The Catholic Church uses the term "saint" to refer to any being who is in heaven, either an angel or a human being.

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Today, Fr. Josh encourages us to look at our vices and then to pursue the opposing virtue in the coming new year.

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This week in a Christmas special, Father Josh encourages us to pray with the Scriptures read during the Christmas Masses. As we listen to the genealogy of Jesus on Christmas Eve, he reminds us that Jesus came from a family of sinners and that Christ came to save all, no matter how great or how little the sinner.

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"Each and every one of us has a past and we shouldn't let our past mistakes dictate our future, our destiny, our calling to become saints in our walk towards eternity... God is bigger than our mess."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about how to properly use sacramentals and how to grow in relationship with God when prayer is tough.

Snippet From the Show

“Catholics sometimes approach sacramentals as if they are magic or having power in and of themselves, instead of approaching them as instruments of grace.”

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Fr. Josh answers questions about whether all world religions are the same, how to accept a partner’s sexual history in a dating relationship, and how to let go of past sufferings and hurts.

*Please note: This episode contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children – parental discretion is advised.

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We can reverence the fact that there are true, good, and beautiful aspects of different world religions, but we should always invite people to discover Jesus Christ, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about what is the meaning of "world without end" in the Glory Be, how are we ever worthy of reception of Holy Communion, and if the Catholic Church is a cult.

Snippet From the Show

We are purged and cleansed of our venial sins and imperfections each and every time we approach Jesus in Holy Communion.

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In this special Thanksgiving episode, Fr. Josh invites us to reflect on the ways God has been generous with us this year and guides us through a powerful meditation and a litany of gratitude.

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"Recognize to whom you owe the fact that you exist, that you breathe, that you understand, that you are wise, and, above all, that you know God and hope for the kingdom of heaven and the vision of glory, now darkly as in a mirror but then with greater fullness and purity. You have been made a son of God, co-heir with Christ. Where did you get all this, and from whom? "- St. Gregory of Nazianzen

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Fr. Josh answers questions about the official process of becoming Catholic, how to restore confidence in one's own worth, and how to navigate encounters and conversations with loved ones over thanksgiving.

Snippet From the Show

“Be rooted in daily prayer with the Lord and he will give you his mind, his words, his eyes, and his ears, to direct the conversations with those you hold dearest to your heart.”

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Fr. Josh answers questions about the Church's tradition of offering Gregorian Masses for the deceased, and whether a physical or mental disability can affect one's road to his or her vocation.

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The Sacred Congregation on Indulgences has declared that "the offering of Gregorian Masses has a special efficacy for obtaining from God the speedy deliverance of a suffering soul, and that this is a pious and reasonable belief of the faithful."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about what it looks like for a man to live out his identity as a beloved son of God, and how to properly understand mystical writings.

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“To be a son of the Father is the foundational identity of every man.”

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Fr. Josh answers questions about the origin of the Angelus prayer, why some Catholic priests give bad homilies, and whether or not we can call creation our "mother".

Snippet From the Show

"Nature is not our mother: Nature is our sister. We can be proud of her beauty, since we have the same father; but she has no authority over us; we have to admire, but not to imitate."- G.K. Chesterton

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Fr. Josh answers questions about experiencing confusion and doubts discerning one's vocation, and why taking the morning after pill is a serious sin, but a sin that God forgives through the sacrament of Reconciliation because there is no sin that God doesn't forgive in confession.

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"My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about the difference between possessing others versus authentically loving them, and how to properly understand modesty, and why how we dress matters.

Snippet From the Show

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Fr. Josh answers questions about how to cope with grief from a Catholic perspective, how to choose patron saint names for your child, and how to discern a vocation to the contemplative life.

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"Our Lady is called Our Lady of Sorrows for a reason, because she grieved at the foot of the Cross. Grief is human, healthy, and holy."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about how to hold on to the graces we receive on retreats once they are over, why young people today shouldn't be afraid of marriage, and how to find courage during an unplanned pregnancy.

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"If you want to encounter a tangible expression of the love of God, then go find a holy married couple, and if you can’t find any, then become one."

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Megan and Jared Braud join Fr. Josh to discuss how to cultivate a healthy and integrated lifestyle that enables us to physically and spiritually thrive as disciples of Christ.

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We can’t glorify God and serve others without creating healthy spiritual, physical, and emotional habits.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about waiting to enter the Church as an RCIA candidate, whether Catholics should join college fraternities and sororities, and what to do if you are feeling alone in the faith and yearning for community.

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Before joining a fraternity or sorority examine its roots and fruits. If it was founded by the Freemasons and promotes Masonic rituals, and if they are encouraging sin, then it is not the right fit for a Catholic.

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Where is God in devastation? In this special episode, Fr. Mark Toups gives us an insight into the devastating impact of Hurricane on countless lives, communities, and parishes in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in Lousiana. Fr. Mark Toups encourages us to support survivors of Hurricane Ida, and reveals how God unfolds miracles in the midst of great loss and suffering.

Support Hurricane Ida relief efforts in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux

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In honor of Mary's nativity celebrated by the Church this week, Fr. Josh answers questions about the biblical origin of the Hail Mary prayer, whether Mary is the new Ark of the Covenant, and how we can understand Mary's perpetual virginity.

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Mary is a bridge to Christ, we cannot reach Christ without knowing her.

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Mari Pablo joins Fr. Josh to answer questions about saints who embody Catholic social teaching, how to make people from diverse cultural backgrounds feel welcome in the Church, and how to work with people who believe in some Church teachings, but not others.

Snippet From the Show
_Make sure your table isn’t with everybody who thinks exactly the same as you, because if it is, you can unintentionally make barriers where there needs to be bridges.
_

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Fr. Josh answers questions about the importance of fasting and how to start fasting for beginners, how to navigate spiritual dryness, and how to prepare for the vocation of marriage as an engaged couple.

Snippet From the Show

"We may not see the fruit of our prayer on this side of heaven, but the goal is to persevere and never give up because our prayers do bear fruit in God's own ways."

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Fr. Phillip Bochanski joins Fr. Josh to talk all about same-sex attraction and how the Catholic Church ministers to people who experience same-sex attraction so they can live in the freedom of Christ's love. Fr. Phillip Bochanski is the Executive Director of Courage International, an apostolate that provides pastoral support in the form of spiritual guidance, community prayer support, and fellowship for people who experience same-sex attraction.

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" God has a plan for our lives, which includes a plan for our body, our hearts, and our relationships."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about dealing with shame, how to bring your young kids to adoration, and how to combat the power of evil.
Snippet From the Show

“Look at me, I want to rejoice in you, you are my beloved. I see you, I know everything about you, I know what you have done, I know what has been done to you, and I know what you will do in the future. I want you to know that I delight in you, I forgive you, and I love you.”

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Fr. Josh answers questions about the Church's teaching on cremation and ashes, what the difference between crosses and crucifixes is, and whether the sins we forget during confession are forgiven.

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We preach Jesus crucified, because it’s Jesus' body on the Cross that gives the Cross its meaning and power, otherwise it’s just an instrument of death.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about how to love and serve the homeless, how to handle discouragement when struggling with infertility, and how to come to terms with family members and friends turning away from God and leaving the Catholic Church.

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If we only love Jesus in our prayer but not in our nieghbor, including the homeless, then we don't truly love all of Jesus.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about how to accompany the dying in prayer, how to pray a fruitful holy hour, and how to define vanity when it comes to caring about our appearance.

Snippet From the Show

“A happy death is not a death without pain or suffering, a happy death is a holy death united to Jesus Christ in the sacraments.”

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Fr. Josh answers questions about Jesus' teaching on denying oneself, why God is referred to as "He" , and how to grow in our understanding of the Catholic social teaching.

Snippet From the Show

"God has both maternal and paternal attributes, but we refer to God as Father because we imitate Jesus, and Jesus himself referred to God as Father.”

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Meg Hunter-Kilmer joins Fr. Josh to answer questions about the diverse lives of the saints from all over the world, saints who struggled with anxiety, and how the intercession of the saints works.

Meg Hunter-Kilmer is a cradle Catholic and a revert, brought back to the fold by a grace-filled confession and the supreme logic of Catholic doctrine. She has a Bachelor’s in Theology from Notre Dame and a Master’s in Systematic Theology, also from ND. After 5 years as a full time religion teacher, she quit her job and packed everything into the trunk of her car to drive around the country and fly around the world as a hobo missionary.

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The Catholic Church and her canon of saints is full of saints from all different cultures, ethnicities, disabilities, family circumstances, and struggles because nobody is disqualified from becoming a saint.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about orthodox christians and the different Catholic rites, the purpose of music in the Mass, and the necessity of Baptism for the salvation of our souls.

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"The fruit of Baptism, or baptismal grace, is a rich reality that includes forgiveness of original sin and all personal sins, birth into the new life by which man becomes an adoptive son of the Father, a member of Christ and a temple of the Holy Spirit."- CCC 1226

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Fr. Josh answers questions about the story of Jesus healing the demoniac in Matthew 8: 25-34, and the significance and accuracy of saints receiving the marks of Jesus' crucifixion wounds on their bodies known as the stigmata.

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The stigmata is a personal gift God gives his children to draw them into the mystery of Jesus Christ crucified.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about restoring holy masculinity, why we shouldn’t tell people we’re sending them “good vibes”, and attending non-Catholic weddings.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about how to make time for prayer when you are busy, what do when you are struggling to attend and participate in Mass as a new mom with a baby, and how Eucharistic miracles strengthen our belief in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.

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When we pray in the morning, we give God the first fruits of our day.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about whether Catholics should invite Protestants into the Catholic Church, how to cultivate a relationship with our patron saint, and the reality of the spiritual world.

Snippet From the Show

If our Catholic faith is a gift, then why would we want to keep it for ourselves? Gifts are meant to be shared with others.

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The Church isn't for or against any person; the Church is for a person's salvation, and against anything that stands in the way.

Fr. Josh answers questions about whether Catholics can fly the rainbow flag, what to do when you're angry with God, and how to forgive when the person who has hurt you won't apologize.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about discerning marriage, cultivating friendships that help us grow in virtue, and the Church's teaching on tithing and being generous with our money.

Snippet From the Show

"Vocations are born from a relationship with Christ, and a relationship with Jesus is born from prayer."

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Fr. Mark-Mary, CFR joins Fr. Josh to talk all about prayer. They answer questions about hearing God's voice in prayer, developing a close relationship with God, silent vs. vocal prayer, and praying for the conversion of loved ones. Fr. Mark-Mary also shares about his new book, Habits for Holiness.

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"For our loved ones far from Christ, prayer united with sacrifice can be more powerful than our own words of persuasion."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about God's chosen people, the development of vernacular translations of the Bible, and predictions about the second coming of Jesus.

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Nobody can predict the second coming of Jesus, for only the Father knows.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about experiencing ministry burnout, why we have different titles for Mary, and the process of discerning the diaconate.

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If ministry becomes our God, that is a problem.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about growing in the virtue of patience, discerning entering a third order as a lay person, and whether true crime entertainment can be harmful for our souls.

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The virtue of patience teaches us to surrender to the reality that we are not is control of everything.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about honoring our parents, how the Church would respond to the discovery an intelligent alien species, and how to develop a relationship with the Holy Spirit.

Ascension is proud to partner with authentically Catholic institutions and organizations committed to spreading the Gospel. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode, Ave Maria University.

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As we enter into Holy Week, Fr. Josh invites you to pray with him as he meditates on the passion, death and resurrection of Christ.

Ascension is proud to partner with authentically Catholic institutions and organizations committed to spreading the Gospel. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode, Ave Maria University.

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Fr. Josh discusses what it means to become partakers of God's divine nature, how Enoch and Elijah were taken up to heaven prior to the time of Christ, and how the Church looks at mental health when investigating apparitions and visions.

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"For the Son of God became man so that we might become God."- St. Athanasius

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Fr. Josh answers questions about receiving Communion, why we call priests "father", and how we can detach from our smartphones so we can be present to those around us.

Ascension is proud to partner with authentically Catholic institutions and organizations committed to spreading the Gospel. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode, Ave Maria University.

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"When are present to those around us, we are being present to Christ who dwells within them."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about interfaith dating, the meaning behind all the different kinds of postures during Mass, and the purpose of praying a challenging prayer like the litany of humility.

Ascension is proud to partner with authentically Catholic institutions and organizations committed to spreading the Gospel. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode, Ave Maria University.

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"As Catholics, we kneel because it is a Biblical posture of respect and adoration before our Lord, the King of Kings."

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In this special edition of Ask Father Josh, Fr. Josh answers questions from college students. He discusses how to develop a consistent prayer life when you have a busy schedule, as well as how to cultivate cultural diversity in campus ministry. He also shares inspirational saints who were holy when they were young.

Ascension is proud to partner with authentically Catholic institutions and organizations committed to spreading the Gospel. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode, Ave Maria University.

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“The higher we go, the better we shall hear the voice of Christ.”- Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati

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Fr. Josh explains whether Catholics should practice mindfulness meditation, if Jesus had other siblings, and how to experience the joy of the Lord.

Ascension is proud to partner with authentically Catholic institutions and organizations committed to spreading the Gospel. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode, Ave Maria University.

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“The more we receive the delight of Jesus, the more we begin to delight in ourselves just as we are."

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Fr. Josh discusses how to enter into lent if you struggle with depression or acedia, types of fasting, and how to deal with distractions in prayer.

Ascension is proud to partner with authentically Catholic institutions and organizations committed to spreading the Gospel. Learn more about the sponsor of this episode, Ave Maria University

Snippet From the Show

“When you fast and experience hunger, turn to Scripture so you can feed on the Word of God.”

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In this special episode, Fr. Josh shares with us the heroic stories of black saints and black individuals on their way to sainthood who inspire us to persevere in our walk towards eternity.

This epsidoe contains adult themes that my not be suitable for children- parental discretion advised.

Snippet From the Show

" Do not let your past dictate your future, every saint has a past and every sinner has a future."

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Fr. Josh answers questions about what it means to glorify God with our actions, how salvation for non-Christians works, and how to understand the symbolism in the fall of Adam and Eve.

Snippet From the Show

We give glory, honor and praise to God not just for what he does for us, but most importantly for who he is.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about what it's like to hear confessions as a priest, how to talk about political leaders, and how to practically fight thoughts of temptation.

This episode contains adult themes that are not suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Snippet From the Show

"If we immerse ourselves in holy artwork, movies, music, and Scripture, our imagination starts to become a sacred space that the devil can't play with."

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Fr. Josh answers questions on name changes in the Bible, overcoming envy, and creating a daily prayer routine.

Snippet From the Show
"We don't want to focus too much on ourselves in prayer: prayer is about God, not about us."

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Fr. Josh is joined by Brandi Kilbert to discuss all things women's health- natural family planning, contraception, abortion, and in vitro fertilization. Brandi Kilbert is a nurse, creighton fertility care specialist, wife, mom and the Director of Marriage and Family life at Fr. Josh's parish, Our Lady of the Holy Rosary.

This episode contains adult themes that are not suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Snippet From the Show

"Every person has a fundamental right to life that we must honor and reverence."

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Fr. Josh answers questions on forgiving and healing after betrayal, the universal call to holiness across all vocations, and how to guide someone entering the Catholic Church as an RCIA sponsor.

"We need saints who live faithfully in the mess of a broken humanity won over ulimately by love himself"

Snippet From the Show

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Happy New Year! Fr. Josh shares a quick new year's eve greeting and encourages us to dive into Scripture in the new year.

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• Check out The Bible in a Year (with Fr.Mike Schmitz) at www.ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear

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In this special Christmas Eve episode, Fr. Josh invites us to pray lectio divina with Matthew 1:18-25. He draws our attention to St. Joseph's virtue and righteousness as he prepares for the birth of Jesus.

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"May we learn to be righteous like St. Joseph, who was unwilling to put Mary to shame."

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Fr. Josh answers questions on the year of St. Joseph announced by Pope Francis, the mystery of the Incarnation, and the details of fasting before receiving Holy Communion.

Snippet From the Show

"For the Son of God became man so that we might become God."- St. Athanasius

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Fr. Josh answers questions on Our Lady of Guadalupe, celebrating Santa Claus from a Catholic perspective, and how to bring Christ into the college culture.

Snippet From the Show

Standing in front of the sun, our Lady of Guadalupe points her children away from worshipping the sun to worshipping the son in her womb, Jesus Christ.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about praying in tongues, the purpose of holy water, and why we should fast during Advent.

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"They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them." - Acts 2:3-4

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Fr. Mark Toups joins Fr. Josh to discuss the beautiful marriage of Mary and Joseph and how they can help us prepare this Advent for the birth of Jesus.

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"If every priest loved the Church the way Joseph loved Mary everyone would want to be Catholic."

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Fr. Josh answers questions on the process of falling in love with God and building a real relationship with him, ways to lead Bible studies with your family, and the meaning of covenants in Scripture.

Snippet From the Show

Throughout salvation history, humans have broken the heart of God. However, covenants in Scripture reveal to us God’s indissoluble love for us that never strays though we may stray from him.

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Fr. Josh answers questions on the Catholic view on human evolution, moral relativism, and what to expect in heaven.

Snippet From the Show

In heaven, our hearts will finally rest in the infinite love of God.

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A quick announcement on behalf of Father Josh--we'll be back with a regular episode next week!

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Fr. Josh answers questions on celebrating Halloween as Catholics, feeling a calling to the priesthood later in life, and how to use social media in a saintly way.

Snippet From the Show

Halloween comes from the Catholic feast All Hallow’s Eve, referring to the solemnity of All Saints. This is an opportunity to remember the lives of the saints, the faithfully departed, and our joy in Christ who has conquered death.

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Fr. Josh answers questions on spiritually growing in a season of singleness, responding to atheism, and overcoming fear.

Glory Story (3:35)
Growing in the Season of Singleness (5:16)
Responding to Atheism (10:42)
Overcoming Fear ( 15:16)

Snippet From the Show

With the rise of atheism, let us look at the witness of the missionaries of charity. Their passionate love for Jesus Christ and selfless service of the poor undoubtedly point to something bigger than themselves.

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Do you want to learn how to pray with Scripture? This week, Fr. Josh invites us to pray using a prayer method called Lectio Divina. Fr. Josh shows us how he prays with Scripture by meditating on the Wedding Feast of Cana in the Gospel.

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In the Wedding Feast of Cana, we see that Mary not only notices the needs of others, but is also eager to bring them to her son.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about incorruptible saints, idolizing celebrities, and papal infallibility.

Glory Story (2:39)
Feedback (4:06)
Incorruptible Saints (6:09)
Idolizing Celebrities (13:09)
Papal Infallibility (17:43)

Snippet From the Show

The miraculous preservation of the bodies of incorruptible saints is a gift from God that draw us back to the Church.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about returning to mass during COVID, the validity of beach weddings and why we should consecrate ourselves to Jesus through Mary.

Glory Story (2:25)
Feedback (3:48)
Returning to Mass (6:24)
Beach Weddings (12:40)
Marian Consecration (16:47)

Snippet From the Show

Christ came to us through Mary, and so we also return to him through Mary.

*Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

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Fr. Josh switches things up today and asks you questions! Sit back and hear Fr. Josh ask you questions about prayer, politics, forgiveness, and your relationship with Jesus.

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In the garden of Gethsemane, the disciples were in the presence of Jesus Christ but they were not present to him. How often are you in the presence of God but not present to him?

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Fr. Josh answers questions on end of time prophecies, how apostolic succession works, and the purpose of praying novenas.

Glory Story (3:12)
Feedback ( 5:39)
End of Time Prophecies (7:59)
Praying Novenas ( 22:01)
Apostolic Succession (26:35)

Snippet From the Show

“Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ.”- St. Jerome

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Fr. Josh answers questions on how men can lead spiritually in dating relationships, how to explain to the trinity, and learning to embracing the cross.

Glory Story (3:08)
Feedback (5:32)
Holy Dating (8:11)
Explaining the Trinity (13:37)
Embracing the Cross (20:41)

Snippet From the Show

We rejoice in suffering not because it feels good to suffer, but because we know the good work that God can do through our suffering for the entire body of Christ.

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Fr. Josh answers questions on how to evangelize in the workplace, how to be a good godparent and how to support and defend your local priest when there is gossip in the parish community.

Announcement (1:18)
Glory Story (4:17)
Evangelizing at Worl ( 14:34)
Being a Good Godparent (17:41)
Supporting your Local Priest (23:52)

Snippet From the Show

As a godparent, take time to invest in your relationship with the parents of your godchild and find ways to support them and hold accountable in their faith.

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Fr.Josh answers questions on the dark night of the soul, what makes a sacrament valid, and why we believe in the existence of dinosaurs even though they are not specifically mentioned in Genesis.

Glory Story (3:18)
Feedback (5:56)
Dark Night of the Soul (7:42)
Valid Sacraments (13:57)
Dinosaurs in the Bible (20:35)

Snippet From the Show

Every sacrament that has been given to the Church by our Savior Jesus Christ has a form and a matter, and these cannot be changed.

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Fr. Josh addresses how to raise kids to be saints today, how to accept death, and why it is wrong to use the Lord's name in vain.

Glory Story (3:36)
Feedback (7:36)
Raising Kids to be Saints (8:37)
Accepting Death (24:37)
Using the Lord's Name in Vain /Swearing (32:16)

Snippet From the Show

"Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses." - Pope Paul VI

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Fr.Josh answers questions on charisms, whether soulmates exist, and saints before Jesus.

Snippet From the Show

The only relationship we are destined for, is our relationship with Jesus Christ. We were created to abide in him for all eternity, all other relationships in our lives are gifts and meant to point us back to him.

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Fr.Josh answers questions on the sin of gossip, and how we will be judged by God based on how we used our time, talent, and treasure here on earth.

Snippet From the Show

Our time, talents, and treasures do not belong to us, they are gifts from God. He gives them to us with the expectation that we will share them generously with other people.

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Fr. Josh answers questions on mortification practices, converting to the Catholic Church and hearing God’s voice.

Snippet From the Show

“Stop focusing so much on the response of your desires and your questions and focus more of your prayer on the face of Jesus.”

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Fr. Josh addresses reading horoscopes for fun, whether it’s possible to have faith without religion, and how to forgive oneself after committing grave mortal sin.

Snippet From the Show

“The goal of the Christian life is to imitate God, adoration of God leads to imitation of God.”

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In this special episode of Ask Father Josh, we are sharing Hudson Byblow's story encountering Christ after struggling with same-sex attraction, transgender inclinations, and pornography addiction. You can find Hudson's interview with Fr.Josh on same-sex attraction, holy friendships, and healing from pornography in the previous episode of the show.

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Fr. Josh is joined by Hudson Byblow to discuss the Catholic Church's teaching on same-sex attraction, cultivating holy friendships, and healing from pornography.

Snippet From the Show

“The only one who can satiate that infinite ache that we have is an infinite God.”

• Hudson's full testimony will be released as a special episode on Ask Father Josh on Thursday, 7/16.
• Resources mentioned in this episode can be found in the shownotes. For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/AskFatherJosh
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Fr. Josh answers questions on spacing out children using natural family planning, belief in the Eucharist, and metal music.

Snippet From the Show

"Go to adoration and sit in Jesus’ presence, there’s no way you can go to adoration and not be transformed over time."

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Fr. Josh answers questions on police reform, removing certain statues from our churches, and when Catholic speakers talk about difficult topics.

Snippet From the Show
“Let us therefore discover anew the humility and the courage to pray and fast so that power from on high will break down the walls of lies and deceit.”
-Pope St. John Paul II

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Fr. Josh answers questions on Derek Chauvin, how tall he is, and why there are so few men in the Catholic Church.

Snippet From the Show
“In Heaven, we don’t have any unforgiveness in our hearts, we are completely aligned with the will of God, and the will of God is for us to desire the salvation of even the most hardened hearts.”

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This week, Fr. Josh invites you to pray a decade of the rosary with him and Tara Winder for the intention of repentance. True repentance leads to authentic racial reconciliation within the Church and our nation.

SHOWNOTES
Fr. Josh prays a Lectio Divina Rosary, where he will read a piece of scripture, pray on it, and then apply the section to his decade.

"And as they led him away, they seized one Simon of Cyre′ne, who was coming in from the country, and laid on him the cross, to carry it behind Jesus." Luke 23:26

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This week, Father Josh answers questions on addiction to pornography and what we can do to help heal the racial divide within the Body of Christ in our country.

Snippet From the Show
“Our prayer must influence us and inspire us to manifest love.”

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Fr. Josh dedicates today's show to talking about the racial divide in our country, amidst the mourning of George Floyd, and offers some counsel on ways we can heal this form of division in our country.

Snippet from the Show
“George Floyd is the Body of Christ”

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Father Josh answers questions all about prayer on today’s podcast. From Liturgy of the Hours, to praying through anxiety, to bringing the family into prayer.

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This week, Fr. Josh answers questions on the Rapture, confessions, working for the church, and Marvel superheroes.

Snippet from the Show
When dealing with very messy members of the body of Christ, lean into a closer relationship with St. John of the Cross. He abided with a difficult community who didn’t like him and even imprisoned him!

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This week, Fr. Josh invites you to pray a decade of the rosary with him for the intention of racial reconciliation in our country.

SHOWNOTES
Fr. Josh prays a Lectio Divina Rosary, where he will read a piece of scripture, pray on it, and then apply the section to his decade.

The Agony in the Garden
Luke 22:44 - “And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down upon the ground.”

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This week, Fr. Josh answers questions on the SSPX, the three days of darkness, and Captain America.

Snippet from the Show
“Holy Scripture should be our first love. ‘We have to read them, contemplate them, and put them into practice more than we breathe.’”

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This week, Fr. Josh answers questions on soul ties, how to offer up your suffering, and the institution of our souls.

Snippet from the Show
“God’s divine mercy is available to everyone… God is calling all of us to be saints.”

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Fr. Josh answers questions about whether Adam and Eve are the original parents of all people, what the vocation of consecrated single life and consecrated virginity is, and if someone married by the Justice of the Peace needs an annulment.

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This week, Fr. Josh shares some advice on how to spend this time to draw those around us back to a relationship with Christ, following the example of our Mother Mary and St. Mary Magdalene.

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Fr. Josh answers questions about receiving the sacraments and staying engaged in a virtual mass during COVID-19.

Snippet from the Show
_When it comes to making the act of spiritual communion, this practice can be done anywhere, anytime. And ask God to transport your soul to the nearest tabernacle if you can’t get out of your home to be in the presence of Jesus. _

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Fr. Josh is joined by Chika Anyanwu, Catholic speaker and author, to answer questions about being disappointed with homilies, teaching the Faith to a child with ADHD, and how much we need to divulge in order to make a good confession.

Email your questions about Lent and other topics and feedback to Fr. Josh at [email protected]

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On today’s episode, Father Josh is joined by his good friend Fr. Brad to answer questions about the ethics of fertility testing and birth control for medical reasons.

*Producer’s note: * Father Josh is now live streaming his daily Masses to Ascension’s Facebook page every morning at 9:30 AM ET. Go to facebook.com/Ascensionpress and join us tomorrow for Mass with Father Josh at 9:30 AM! Hope you can join us! God bless.

For full shownotes, text ASKFRJOSH to 33-777 or visit AscensionPress/com.

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Father Josh shares a message of hope and perseverance for these escalating times of COVID-19. He reminds us how to pray Lectio Divina, modeling this spiritual exercise as he reflects on the way the apostle John responded when Jesus was taken away from him.

For more shownotes visit AscensionPress.com or text ASKFRJOSH to 33-777.

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Father Josh and Father Paul Gros answer questions about OCD and anxiety, family members with mental illness, and navigating life changes after therapy.

For full episode shownotes, visit AscensionPress.com or text ASKFRJOSH to 33-777.

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Fr. Josh answers questions all about Christian fasting. Learn about fasting before Mass, fasting if you have an eating disorder, and the spiritual benefits of fasting.

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Fr. Josh answers the question, “What’s the point of Lent?" He then asks a set of questions to help you determine which Lenten practices will be best for your soul this year. 

Snippet from the Show 

When we enter into the Lenten season, we enter into spiritual warfare. Expect Satan to discourage you, but don’t talk to the snake … go directly to Jesus. 

Glory Story (3:10) 

What’s the Point of Lent? (5:40)

Figuring Out What Your Soul Needs This Lent

• Add more silence to your day: give God some extra time to speak to your heart, teaching you to become more like him (we become like those we hangout with).
• Choose your fast wisely: make sure you’re picking a fast that will really challenge you and that you’ll feel all of Lent.
• Stop hitting the snooze button: replace those extra few minutes of sleep with a few minutes of prayer each morning.
• Get off social media: we can waste a lot of time on social media that could be spent with God or our brothers and sisters. Kick that habit during Lent.
• Make sure you have accountability: find a close friend you can be vulnerable with and hold each other accountable this Lent.
• Replace a good for a greater good: whatever you’re fasting from, find a prayer or spiritual practice to replace it with during Lent.

Resources: 

• Pocket Guide to Adoration by Fr. Josh Johnson
• Email your questions about Lent and other topics and feedback to Fr. Josh at [email protected] 
• Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book!
• Broken and Blessed by Fr. Josh Johnson

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Fr. Josh answers questions about whether Catholics should do yoga, whether we should forgive the Devil, and whether Mary truly had free will.

**Glory Story (5:00)

**Feedback (9:19)

*Yoga (10:58)
*
Hi Fr. Josh,

I thank the Lord for leading me to your podcast. I am learning a lot with regards to the beauty of our Catholic faith, though late in the game.

Anyway, my question is about yoga. I have read that it stems from another religion and it's called a practice. I am currently attending classes at the gym because I find that among the many I have tried, it works for my aches and stiffness. I consider it as mindful stretching as opposed to a practice of the philosophy it purports to be. My question is: am I violating my Christian faith if I view yoga as just a workout and not the religious practice that others view it?

Any information will be appreciated and again, thank you.

• Joi

Should we forgive the devil? (21:50)

Hey, Fr. Josh! I'm going to get right to it: should we forgive and love the devil? God loves and forgives everyone, right? Does that include the devil? And if it does include the devil, does that mean we should also love and forgive the devil because we are to imitate Christ? My gut feeling is no. We should just steer clear of the devil entirely and leave it up to God to fight and interact with him. I'm not sure about forgiving the devil for his many temptations and assaults against us, but I'm positive we're not meant to love him, right? I would love to know your view on the matter and if the Catholic Church has an official opinion on this. Thank you so much for any help you can provide!

• D

Did Mary have free-will? (32:33)
Hi Fr. Josh,
I love your podcast and I’ve been listening for some time. Here is my question:
Would it have been a sin to deny the angel Gabriel and not have Jesus? And if it would have been a sin to deny God’s plan, and Mary was born without sin, did she have no other option than to accept? So would she not have had free will?
Thank you and God Bless!!

• John

*Resources: *

• Preorder Pocket Guide to Adoration by Fr. Josh Johnson
• Email your questions about Lent and other topics and feedback to Fr. Josh at [email protected]
• Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to the shownotes list for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book!
• Broken and Blessed by Fr. Josh Johnson
• Jeff Cavins Young Adult Pilgrimage with Fr. Mike Schmitz in June 2020

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

What kinds of physical acts are morally acceptable when it comes to sex in marriage? What do you do when one spouse embraces NFP and the other insists on using contraception? How can an engaged couple recover chastity and peace after giving into sexual temptation together? 

*Disclaimer: Parents may want to listen to the podcast before sharing with young kids, as we discuss some very mature topics about intimate relationships.

Snippet from the Show 

"When you bring to the Mass all that you’ve experienced, you allow Jesus to redeem those things that are most dark, bitter, and painful by taking them into the mystery of his sacrifice and casting them into the ocean of his mercy."

Glory Story (3:55) 

Feedback (9:26)

Disagreement on Contraception in Marriage (11:33)

Thank you for your podcast. It’s been a big help to me. My husband and I have been married for 18 years. We are now in our early 40’s. We have three wonderful kids who are 4, 6 and 8. We are both Catholic but experience our faith differently. One thing we have never agreed on is NFP/contraception.

When we first got married I was trained and spent years charting and following my cycle using the symptothermal method. Since that time we have always abstained during my fertile period, but when we have sex my husband will still use a condom to avoid pregnancy. So I’ve basically been doing NFP on my own.

He is a good man, and has his own journey with the Lord. But this has caused me much pain and guilt. We have always attended weekly Mass together, and with the children, and we do night prayers with the kids every night. I also attend daily Mass when I can, and regular reconciliation. My husband and I pray together sometimes but it’s not a daily habit. I pray a lot. I have kept bringing this to the Lord in prayer. And kept up a dialogue with my husband. I bring it to reconciliation.

He doesn’t want any more children, and a big part of that now is because I become very unwell when pregnant and can’t function for a number of months. I am open to having more children if it’s God’s will, even though I’m a bit afraid of being so sick. I would do it though. After so long I have started to feel much fear, and sometimes hopelessness about this situation. At the worst times I worry that I am condemned. I feel powerless to change the situation. And an ultimatum doesn’t really seem like the right thing to do for our marriage. I have realised I basically try to avoid intercourse, but that’s not great for our marriage either.

Do you have any advice that will help me to carry on in this situation, which doesn’t look like it will change anytime soon.

- Sarah

Oral Sex in Marriage (17:04)

Hey Father Josh, 

I looked all over the Ascension Press website for anything on this topic. 

I have read Song of Solomon and there are lots of thought provoking ideas within the scripture. My question is, what are the Catholic teachings on what is appropriate acts of "foreplay" before having intercourse, for a married couple. To be more specific, could you also elaborate on the Catholic teachings of oral sex. I have listened to your potato analogy for same sex relationships, but am wondering the thoughts for a married male and female, as the Song of Solomon hints at some of this.

Thanks in advance!

- Anonymous

Recovering from Sexual Sin (25:14)

Hey Father Josh,

I have a question I’ve been wrestling with for a few weeks now. I recently got engaged,  and we are both Catholic and are active in our church. We both agreed to wait until marriage to have sex, but one evening we went out of town to attend a wedding and it was our first time sharing a hotel room. We had spent the night in the same bed once before about 6 months prior, but that was before i knew it was a sin, and after that we never shared a bed at night. Anyway the evening was fine but then we got carried away and things went too far. I ended up crying the rest of the night and I felt absolutely horrible. The next morning was thankfully Saturday and after the wedding we both talked and wanted to not ever do that again, so we went to confession. 

It’s been a couple of weeks, but I’m so sad about what I did. I feel like I failed and that I don’t know who I am or that I can’t be genuinely relaxed. It’s caused me to question so much about myself and the relationship. If we committed such a grave sin does this mean that we’re not leading each other toward Heaven? That we will lead each other to sin? Should we break off the engagement? Should we just end our relationship? I guess I’m looking for steps to do after everything. My fiance and I have talked, we stay away from the occasion of sin, not spending too much time privately alone, limiting longer kisses and we went to confession but I’m still questioning everything. I don’t know what to do. Any help or advice would be great. Please advise, I feel so lost and confused, thank you. 

- Anonymous

Resources: 

• Preorder Pocket Guide to Adoration by Fr. Josh Johnson
• Email your questions about Lent and other topics and feedback to Fr. Josh at [email protected] 
• Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book!
• Broken and Blessed by Fr. Josh Johnson
• How to Pray Like Mary by Sonja Corbitt

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Father Josh answers questions about fear of the Lord, explaining transubstantiation to children, and whether a grandparent should secretly baptize their unbaptized grandchild.

Glory Story (2:49) 

Feedback (6:32)

Baptizing a Grandchild (11:15)

Hi Fr. Josh! Thank you so much for your priesthood and your ministry via this podcast. It has been so encouraging to me and many friends too!  Here’s my question—my oldest daughter is married to a very nice Jewish man and now has a one year old baby boy. For a while she was attending a nondenominational church but now is not going to church at all, and they have not baptized the baby. I asked her once if she would consider baptism, and she said she would think about it. That was months ago, and she hasn’t brought it up again. Do you have any suggestions for how I can encourage her to come back to church and baptize the baby? My husband and I are heartbroken about this. A friend said I should take some holy water and baptize the baby myself the next time I go and see them. Should I consider doing this? I would appreciate any words of wisdom you might have.

- Shannon

Fear of the Lord (19:35)

Hi Fr. Josh!

I’ve always wondered about verses in the Bible which discuss fearing the Lord. For example, the Bible references that we’re “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) or that the “fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 111:10). To me, the word “fear” doesn’t seem like a word we should use when describing who God is or how we should feel towards Him. Can you help a girl out?

You’re DA BOMB!

- K-Dawg

Explaining the Eucharist to a Child (23:43)

My son is 6 years old and wants to be a priest when he grows up. He absolutely loves all things regarding the Church and especially our priests. Today at Mass he asked me about consuming Jesus. He sort of understands that the bread and wine turns into the Body and Blood of Jesus but how do I explain to him that this miracle is not “disgusting” but a beautiful opportunity he will be able to receive next year? I believe it is the Body, Blood, soul and Divinity of Christ but how do I explain to a 6 year old (or a 14, 9, and 4 year old) that this is not cannibalism but a miracle? I hope this question makes sense.

Thank you Fr. Josh, I have learned so much from your podcast about our beautiful faith. I am always praying for you and welcome your prayers for myself and my wonderful children I have been blessed with.

- Christina

Resources: 

• Preorder Pocket Guide to Adoration by Fr. Josh Johnson
• Email your questions and feedback to Fr. Josh at [email protected] 
• Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book!
• Broken and Blessed by Fr. Josh Johnson
• Song: “Nothing Else” by Cody Carnes
• Belonging: Baptism in the Family of God by Fr. Mike Schmitz 
• Unabridged Christianity: Biblical Answers to Common Questions About the Roman Catholic Faith
• Code of Canon Law on Baptism
• 1 Peter 3:21 - Salvation of those baptized 
• General Audience of Pope Francis on Fear of the Lord
• Holy Bible – The Great Adventure Catholic Bible

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Fr. Josh answers three questions about the priesthood: Why can’t women be priests? Why can’t priests get married? And how can you look past the human flaws of the priest when he is acting in persona Christi?

Snippet from the Show
Jesus Christ was radical, he broke many customs. If he had wanted women to be priests, he would have chosen them to be priests … Mary [Mother of God] was far holier than Peter. Mary Magdalene showed up to the foot of the Cross. Guess who wasn’t at the foot of the Cross—Peter, Thomas, Matthew. Many of these women were far holier than the first priests. However, in God’s will, he chose men to be the matter for the sacrament of priesthood.

SHOWNOTES
Glory Story (3:05)

Women Priests (7:49)

Hi Father,

I know you mentioned before you wanted to do a themed show. So I recently heard you speak on church tradition, and the difference between big “T” and little “t” tradition which I’m sure you would elaborate on, maybe even sing about. I wanted to suggest that as a possible theme for the show. I had a specific question pertaining to this topic, and was hoping you’d speak on this: are male only priests a little “t” tradition or a big “T” tradition? I’ve recently been challenged on the church’s position on men as priests and found myself stuck when trying to engage in dialogue on the matter. I’m somewhat familiar with the theology on this but any clarification and insight would be fantastic. Thank you for all you do as a servant and radical disciple of our Lord, for your continued “yes” in answering the call, and example of servant leadership. You are constantly in our prayers.

– Shanna

Married Priests (21:02)

Father Josh,

Yesterday my family and I had an interesting debate over Sunday dinner on our faith and the Catholic religion. To give context, my father is a 7th Day Adventist and my mother is Catholic, which provided an interesting decision for my parents to decide which religion my sister and I would grow up with. Ultimately, my parents decided to raise us in the Catholic Church. My sister and I went to Catholic school all of our lives and have been committed to the principles of our faith through our adult lives. In recent years, our faith has been challenged with exposure to other religions through friends and even through our father’s side of the family. We will be asked questions about traditions within the Catholic faith and we would not have the proper response other than, “this is just the way we’ve done it for years.” Of course this is mainly our fault for not asking these questions about various traditions, but in many instances we feel that some of the traditions within the Catholic religion are lost in translation by being passed from generation to generation without explanation. This has a compounding effect in generations like the true knowledge or intent of many Catholic traditions. Our discussion became further involved when my father brought up an article entitled, “Catholic bishops approve proposal allowing some married men to be ordained priests in the Amazon.” In my opinion, it is well known for the intent and reason that a priest should not be married but this has always been a determining factor for young men that seek the priesthood. There are only a select few that have the gift and dedication such as you to connect with this church family in an effective way, and willing to dedicate the rest of his life to the Lord. I’ve only had the privilege to experience a priest through one possibly two of my church communities in my life. I think that one of the reasons is this tradition. Curious to hear your thoughts and if this is approved, what would be the potential impact for the greater Catholic community?

Keep up the good work, love listening to your podcast. I’m a Houston native, Lafayette raised, and work overseas. Hearing your cultural references and coffee in the morning brings a smile to my face when hearing the show.

– Bryan

Flawed Priests (32:20)

How do you see Christ in your priest when his actions and words don’t seem to match up with Jesus? I’m continuously praying the Litany of Humility, and maybe God is trying to make me live that through the actions of the priest, but how do I get past his humanity and see Christ in him?

– Bridget

Resources:

• Email your questions and feedback to Fr. Josh at [email protected]
• Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book!

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

In this week’s pro life themed episode, Father Josh addresses questions about abortion after rape, the often-misunderstood Church teaching on excommunication, and a unique challenge of single motherhood.

Glory Story (2:39)
Feedback (6:16)

Rape and Abortion (10:50)
My name is Brianna and I live in Kyle, Texas! I absolutely love your podcast and a lot of your episodes have brought so much clarity to my life and helped me grow in my faith, so thank you!

My question is, with new abortion laws being made, particularly making abortion illegal for women who have been raped, how do we react to such situations with grace? I’m honestly torn on how to feel about this issue because as a woman, I couldn’t imagine being raped and then having to bear that child. I feel women may view having to give birth as a punishment, instead of a good thing. I was wondering what your views on this very sensitive issue are?

Thank you for your time!

• Brianna

Excommunication of Pro-Choice Politicians (19:40)
First, I just wanted to thank you for the work you are doing with your podcast. So many times it has felt like you have been talking directly to me. I am so thankful for all you are doing and for your YES to be a priest and help so many strive to become saints. Your podcast has been such an instrumental part of my faith development especially through this past year when I first fell in love with the Lord and my Catholic Faith.

My question for you deals with excommunication, especially in regards to public officials who claim to be Catholic yet condone and encourage grave evils like abortion. I am a high school teacher at a Catholic high school in Michigan and I am getting a lot of questions from my students as to why an official like Andrew Cuomo is not being excommunicated from the Church after he championed a law like the “Reproductive Health” Act. For as much as I love the discussion and time to discuss the evils of abortion this topic brings, I find myself unable to articulate what the actual teaching on excommunication is or how to appropriately respond to the question a student posed, “How can the church excommunicate someone when we are told that there is nothing God cannot and does not long to forgive. Isn’t excommunicating someone a human judging another and condemning them to Hell?” I understand excommunication is supposed to be used as a call to repentance, but I do not think my explanation to my student was anywhere near adequate for a complete understanding and I didn’t want to fall into a trap of letting my anger over the evil of the law get in the way of the truth of the church’s teaching. Any guidance you could provide would be greatly appreciated!!

Thank you so much for your time. I’m really working being more committed to praying intentionally everyday and keeping you and all of our amazing priests in my prayers has been such a great motivator. It’s a work in progress but please know I’m trying. Thanks again!

• Anonymous

**How to Talk About My Mistakes to My Daughter When She’s Older (29:57)
**Hey Father Josh!

I love listening to your podcast! Your answers are always so helpful and have gotten me back in touch with my faith on a daily basis. Love listening while I’m doing chores around the house or in the car! My question has to do with children born outside of marriage. I became pregnant with my daughter when I was 19 (outside of marriage). It was a moment of weakness for me, and one that I have been to confession for and am still forgiving myself for. When I found out, there was never a question of “What am I going to do?” I knew I was having my baby and abortion was never a thought in my mind. I knew it would be hard, but I come from a long line of strong women and I can do all things through Christ. I wanted to get your opinion on how to address this topic when my daughter is older. I’m raising her Catholic but I don’t ever want her to think that she was a mistake. I also don’t want to be a hypocrite when teaching my daughter about our faith and its views on sexual relationships.

Peace and love always,

• Mahkayla

Resources:
Preorder Pocket Guide to Adoration by Fr. Josh Johnson
Email your questions and feedback to Fr. Josh at [email protected]
Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe for the chance to win a free copy of Fr. Josh’s new book!
Excommunication and the Catholic Church: Straight Answers to Tough Questions by Dr. Peters
Check out the Ascension Press Youtube channel
Broken and Blessed by Fr. Josh Johnson

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

In today’s episode, Father Josh answers questions about the call and the challenge to pursue a chaste life. He answers a question from a mother who suspects her son is gay, a young woman who wants to enter the religious life but lost her virginity in college, and a listener looking for recommended chastity speakers.

**Snippet from the Show
**There’s no person in this world that can ever satiate the infinite ache that exists in your heart—only the infinite God can quench that thirst.

**My Son Might Be Gay
**Father Josh,
We love our son unconditionally. The struggle is not our love for our son but the struggle he will have. We suspect that he is gay. He has not told us, but we don’t want to confront him, but do not want him to feel he has to hide. We raised him Catholic and know he has an incredible love of people and is so kind. My fear is the teaching of the church will push him away from it.
He deserves to be loved and have a family. Besides loving him how can we help him and walk with him?
He is a good beautiful man.
Thank you

**Are there any Catholic African American speakers who speak about Chastity?
**I want my grandchildren to see people who look like them speak about the call to chastity. Do you have any recommendations?

**Which John Wrote the Book of Revelation?
**Dear Father Josh, Which John wrote the Book of Revelation? John the Baptist, John the apostle? My brother and I were discussing and weren't sure if the Catholic Church specifically states which John wrote it. Thank you for all you do to spread the Good News!! Your choice to do so is a blessing! Thank you, Anonymous.

**
Can I be a religious sister if I lost my virginity? **
Fr. Josh!!! First things first I wish I could've run into you at SLS because I wanted to personally thank you for all of the things that you do for your podcast and all the things it’s done for me. It is crazy how God uses you, like literally whenever I get a question in my head about our faith, usually the next episode is the answer, or the person is going through the same thing as me, like the scrupulosity episode. You’re so cool dawg!! Anyway, my question involves religious life. Personally I feel that God has sent me an invitation to be a sister since I was 6, but I have never really accepted the call until now at 22. However in college I made bad decisions involving the use of drugs and alcohol, but my biggest regret of all was a relationship where I gave away my virginity. Although for the past 2.5 years I restored my faith in Jesus Christ and completely changed my life—surrendering it to him, I still find myself in the heap of regret, and somehow it will prevent me from entering into religious life. I feel like giving away my virginity prevents Christ from entering into divine intimacy with me fully. I feel as if my chances of being a sister are almost gone, if that makes sense? I am still discerning married life as well, but this invitation draws me more than ever before. I just have so much fear that my mistakes messed up everything. Anyway, GO TIGERS AND YOU ARE SUCH AN AMAZING LIGHT!! Keep singing!!
-Hannah

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Andy Lesnefsky from Vagabond Ministries joins Father Josh to discuss how to find/build Catholic community, being judged by Catholics for having tattoos, why you shouldn’t worry about fitting a perfect Catholic mold, and how to avoid burnout when you’re always serving others.

Today’s podcast was recorded live last week in Phoenix Arizona at the FOCUS Student Leadership SLS conference. Tune in to hear the first ever glory stories from audience members and a even a question from the audience. Thank you for all your prayers for this incredible conference and all the young Catholics who attended!

Glory Story (0:45)
**
**Fitting a "Catholic Mold" (12:07)

Hello Father Josh,
I want to thank you for your podcast. I appreciate how you bring your full personality to each recording. It has been especially helpful to me because I often get this sense that I need to change and fit some mold in order to be acceptable or rather leave behind my culture and my personality and become a woman who is meak, quiet, and soft. This is an ongoing struggle for me though to understand how to sanctify our culture and personality traits rather than just trying to become someone I’m not. What are your thoughts on this? I often see examples of women promoting strong Catholics who dress and talk alike. I wanna find myself in Christ, but that does not mean just conforming right? I’m hoping you can catch what I’m trying to ask. Thank you so much for this podcast and even reading this email I appreciate the ministry.

• Nkeka

Being Judged by Older Catholics for My Tattoos (17:13)
I’m a 27-year-old guy with 3/4ths sleeve of tattoos. It shows how God has helped me through my childhood struggles and how he made me stronger because of it. Through my tattoo I’ve been able to bring a few people back to God and knowing his love for us. I feel that it’s my way of evangelizing. Some people in leadership at my parish, they know my story and they’re excited about my tattoo, and they’re excited that it’s my way of evangelizing. These same adults encourage me and other young adults to go out and evangelize others. Yet and still, I’ve also been told by them that I have to wear long-sleeve shirts to cover up my tattoo whenever I’m on the parish grounds. How do I approach this?

• Anonymous

Avoiding Burnout While Serving Others (22:52)
How can one lead a community while still being a part of the community? Myself and a few of my good friends are the leadership team at my university's Catholic center. We do not have a campus minister or any missionaries, so a majority of the ministry falls upon the shoulders of myself and the rest of the officer team It’s been incredibly difficult to live in the community while also leading it. We became exhausted over the past semester, constantly pouring into the community, and the community not pouring back into us, and all of our relationships with Christ have suffered. Over the break the Lord restored us greatly but how do we keep a repeat of last semester from happening again?

• Michaela

*Lack of Young Adult Catholic Community (30:55) *
Thank you very much Father. I am here (SLS 2020) with the Archdiocese of Military Services and I’m in the Coastguard stationed in Valdez, Alaska, and there’s a small parish there but generally I feel pretty darn isolated in terms of young adult Catholics, on fire with the faith. I haven’t been super stellar at keeping the march going if you know what I mean. What advice do you have for Catholics, military or otherwise, who are generally isolated? I know the calling is to be that leader, start that young adult community, I know that answer, but the truth is it’s just really difficult to connect with people who, even at the parish, don’t get it, if you know what I mean - you just don’t have that connection with them. I feel like I’m really falling short.

- Hanna (Live from SLS 2020)

Resources
Help support Dave and Amber Vanvickle through their GoFundMe
Check out Andy Lesnefsky’s organization, Vagabond Missions
Subscribe to the show by texting “askfrjosh” to 33-777

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Happy New Years Y'all! I'm taking one more week off from my regular recording schedule, but tune in next week when we kick off 2020 with the first ever LIVE recording of Ask Father Josh!

Sidenote: this week I'm in Phoenix, Arizona for the FOCUS SLS20 conference, so if you're here too, come say hi and see me podcast LIVE on Tuesday at 4:15 at the Media Feed (check the FOCUS app for the location). I'm hoping I'll get to meet some of y'all there!

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Father Josh prays for grace and peace to fill your soul as you approach this Christmas season.

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

In today’s special episode, Sister Miriam James Heidland joins Father Josh to talk favorite childhood Christmas memories, YouTube videos, books, saints, and more.

Snippet from the Show
Christmas is a tender time that reminds us that we must become like little children to inherit the kingdom of God.

Favorite Christmas Memories
Fr. Josh—Christmas Eve Mass and then opening a present before bed
Sr. Miriam—seeing Christmas lights and the magic of waking up and to all the presents under the tree; having cinnamon rolls and hot cocoa after Mass

Favorite Youtube videos
Fr. Josh: Video of the Mass: The Veil Removed

Sr. Miriam James: New research about how the brain heals itself from trauma, resources from Dr. Bob Schuchts

Favorite Book (s)
Katharine Drexel: The Riches-to-Rags Life Story of an American Catholic Saint
The Soul of Shame
Island of the World by Michael O’Brien

Saint Most Present to You Now
Father Josh and Sr. Miriam- Saint Joseph
Rejoice! Advent Meditations with Joseph

Favorite Christmas/Advent Hymns
Fr. Josh— "What Child Is This?"
Sr. Miriam— "Most Highly Favored Lady"

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Father Josh answers questions about how to talk about corruption in the Church’s history, whether the saints know our thoughts, and whether Mary knew that Jesus was God.

**Glory Story (2:05)

Feedback (3:59)
**
Do Saints Know Our Thoughts? (9:04)
Dear Fr. Josh,

In one of your podcasts, you said that the Devil does not know our thoughts. Do the saints know our thoughts? I have always prayed silently to them.

Thank you.

• Angela

Corrupt Church History (11:22)
Hey Father!

Thank you for your ministry. You're my commute buddy on the way to teach grade eight American History in a public school ... Given that the Catholic Church was the only game in town for 1500+ years if you loved Jesus, we've been talking a bit about the role it played in history.

I was well formed by my experience in RCIA ... so I am able to answer student questions about the Church teachings. I had a good humanities education, so I can also answer about other faiths and protestantism in general enough ways.

Here's my question⁠—how do I address some of the awful things that happened in Church history? Like how the Church treated scientists during the Age of Reason, or the selling of indulgences during the Crusades, or Christopher Columbus and other explorers wiping out entire cultures of native people … People then knew that murder was wrong, and that heaven couldn't be accessed through monetary donations to a greedy pope or bishop, and this all still happened.

I've talked about how people generally do the best they can, and how churches are run by perfectly imperfect men who are representatives of their time. [My students] seem to be OK with the answer of imperfect people being in charge ... but their natural conscience is telling them that someone should have tried harder to stop some of these shameful things done in the name of God. I'd love some advice.

Thanks!

-Heatherle

Did Mary Know? (17:49)
Father Josh,

You’ve been talking about “Mary Did You Know” for a while now; when are you going to talk about that on the show?

• Blair

Resources
Check out Father’s Instagram page!
Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation
Email Father Josh at [email protected]
How to Pray Like Mary
Matthew 16:19: Peter is given the keys to the Kingdom
The Dogma of the Immaculate Conception

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Father Josh answers questions about how to live Advent in a meaningful way, whether Catholics should listen to Christmas music during Advent, and what the “Christmas season” is according to the liturgical calendar.

Snippet from the Show
_For the secular world, Christmas season begins on Black Friday and ends on Christmas day. For Catholics, Christmas season begins on Christmas day and continues until the Baptism of Christ the Lord in mid-January. _

SHOWNOTES
Glory Story (1:56)

Feedback (4:20)

How to Have a Meaningful Advent (7:52)

Hey Fr Josh,

What practical advice can you give to have a more meaningful Advent and truly enter into the mystery of the Incarnation? I know the world has a different way of preparing for Christmas, but all that builds up to is simply good feelings and gifts that will probably go obsolete. Also, I’m the only actively practicing Catholic in my family, I want to ensure that my soul is ready to welcome the Baby Jesus and make Him the king of my life. I don’t want to view the Nativity as a cute little story, but as the moment where the world’s and my salvation was born. Thanks for your service to Mother Church.

• Chris

Christmas Music during Advent (11:32)
Greetings, Fr. Josh!

Thank you so much for dedicating yourself to this podcast as part of your ministry. Many times your words have convicted me to dive deeper into certain aspects or practices of our faith, and my relationship with Jesus has greatly benefited as a result. I appreciate the wide variety of topics that you address on the show, and I LOVE your glory stories. They encourage me to "keep on keeping on" and they remind me to continuously look for God's blessings in my everyday life. Know that I am praying for you and for all of your listeners as we journey in the faith together.

On to my question. I love Christmas music, and as a professional singer and a music teacher, I often start preparing Christmas - themed songs for holiday performances in September (both in my own practice and with my students). I also love listening to Christmas music, and have traditionally started listening to Christmas songs in November (or at the very least singing along with the radio stations that play Christmas tunes at work or in stores).

However, recently some Catholics I know (close friends of mine, as well as more well-known public figures) have advocated for not listening to or playing Christmas music much (if at all) before or during the Advent season. Instead, they suggest focusing more on traditional Advent-themed hymns such as "O Come O Come Emmanuel" and "O Come Divine Messiah." I definitely love incorporating these traditional hymns into my prayer and worship during Advent, but I struggle with the idea of completely ignoring Christmas music (especially sacred Christmas carols) right up until the Christmas liturgical season begins. This is particularly impractical for me given my current vocation as a musician and teacher. Do you have any thoughts on how Catholics should approach listening to Christmas music (both sacred and secular) before and during Advent?

Thank you so much, and may God continue to bless you in your ministry!

• Anna-Marie

Timing of the Christmas Season (19:35)
Dear Fr. Josh,

Thank you for creating such an inspiring and informative podcast. My husband and I really enjoy listening to it on long car drives, and discussing the topics further together.

My question for you is when does the Christmas season end? I know in the Church it officially begins on Christmas Day itself, but it's difficult for me to find a good answer on when it ends. Some say Epiphany (but I've heard for years that this isn't the case). Others say the Baptism of the Lord, but is that just up until then or the day of (since priests return to green vestments that day). Further, I've read that it goes through Candlemas on February 2nd, as the Alma Redemptoris Mater is used through then with its Christmas vesicle and prayer. Could you please enlighten me and other listeners as to which one is most correct?

Thank you and God Bless

• Hannah

Resources
Rejoice! Advent Meditations
“Advent at Ephesus” by the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles
“Lent at Ephesus” by the Benedictines of Mary, Queen of Apostles
Email Father Josh at [email protected]
The Birth of Jesus the Messiah (Matthew 1:20-21)

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Father Josh shares four things he’s grateful for and wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving! He also encourages you to send all your Advent and Christmas related questions to him at [email protected] for a special themed episode in the coming weeks.

SHOWNOTES
What I’m Grateful For:
Sickness: being sick allowed me to draw closer to the Lord and spend more time with him
My Brother Priests: they were so kind and helpful to me while I was sick
My community: and its beautiful support of religious vocations
You! Thank you for supporting the show and sending me your wonderful questions and messages

Next week’s episode will be all about Advent, so please send me all of your questions and stories on Advent!

Resources
Email Fr. Josh: [email protected]

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Can Catholics support feminism? Why do some people believe women shouldn’t work outside the home? How do the promises of devotional prayers work—can they guarantee salvation? Should we be embracing the current interest in Christianity due to Kanye West and his album, Jesus is King? Fr. Josh answers this and more in today’s episode.

Snippet from the Show
“Cardinal Ratzinger (who became Pope Benedict XVI) proposes that women who want to stay at home should be able to stay at home, and women to want to work outside of the home, should be able to work outside of the home.”

Get the shownotes at ascensionpress.com/askfrjosh

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Father Josh answers questions about how to find healing in the midst of anxiety or depression, how to get involved in your parish, and whether or not Catholics can be Freemasons.

Snippet from the Show

If a Catholic man joins the freemasons, he automatically excommunicates himself from the Catholic Church.

SHOWNOTES
**
Glory Story (2:13)

Listener Feedback (6:30)

Anxiety, Depression, and Mental Illness (11:17)**

Hi Fr Josh,
My boyfriend introduced me to your podcast a few months ago, and absolutely love it. I think it is important to constantly learn more about the Church that Jesus Christ created. Your answers to people's questions and the way you tell stories is truly a gift from God.
I recently graduated from college and am in a period of transition in my life before I start graduate school. The transition has been more difficult than I expected and I am now suffering from anxiety. I also already visit a counselor with Catholic Charities. I know the Lord's grace is sufficient and he will deliver me, however, I am still struggling to control my overwhelming feelings of doubt and worry. What is your spiritual advice for someone in my situation suffering from anxiety, depression, or a mental illness? Whose intercessions should they ask for? Are there prayers already written for this? Thank you for all you do.

• Sloan

Getting Involved in Your Parish (19:05)

Dear Fr. Josh,
You probably don’t remember me, but I will never forget you. I consider this my own little glory story. I was a member of St. Aloysius parish in Baton Rouge, LA. I was also a student at LSU and a student at Louisiana Culinary Institute, but before I became a student at the culinary school I moved back to my hometown for a semester during a really rough period of my life. During that period I left the Church and lost all hope and faith, not necessarily in Christ, but I just lost hope that he could love someone like me. Eventually I made my way back to Baton Rouge and had a little house on Stone Street. I still thank God every day for finding us a house on the same street as the church. I would often walk to Mass with my sister, not really wanting to attend and feeling guilty most of the time. One day after Mass during the final prayer, you stopped and said the following, “I don’t know who needs to hear this, but I feel God urging me to stop and share this message with someone in here tonight.” Then you continued to say, “You are so loved, and whatever you’re going through will pass. You are so loved by our Father.” I wept the entire night. It changed my life. My heart has been set on fire for Jesus ever since, and I truly perceive that to be Jesus working through you. Now, onto my question: I live in my hometown again, and as I said, my heart has been lit on fire for Jesus ever since that night. I have helped to bring so many of my friends to adoration and Mass. I love my parish, but I find myself hesitant to get more involved. I feel like I have a lot of great skills that I can use to better my parish and other young people who have fallen away from the Church. I wanna be an instrument for Jesus but I don’t know where to start. Should I ask someone in the parish office where they need help or my parish priest? Should I plan a meeting or just start volunteering in random ways? There are so many options, I would really love some guidance.
With love - Avery

The Freemasons (25:47)

Hello Fr. Josh,
Just recently found your show. I am loving how real and open you are about answering questions, even hard ones. I also enjoy your bursts of song. There’s a song for every occasion, don’t you think? As many of your listeners, I am a cradle Catholic. The organization of Masonry and its sister organization has recently been brought to my attention. My neighbors whom I respect and know to be faithful Christians, if not Catholic, are members. They are the most giving, warm, welcoming people. Always busy with various events, and community programs. I began wondering what their organization is all about. If I look it up online, there are many websites that for good or bad talk about this “secret” organization. It sorta looks like it was started maybe by Catholic Scotts… But the Church is against it…. I think… There are conspiracy theories, and occult theories… Curiosity makes me want to know more. But I am wary after all the stuff online. Making more connections with my community is something I am seeking. I am involved in my church community, but that only serves a portion of the community as a whole. I’d like to meet more and interact with more individuals in the community. What is the Church’s stance today on this organization, and why?

• Catherine

Resources
More on the history of the Freemasons and the Catholic Church

Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation by Fr. Josh
Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to receive weekly emails for Fr. Josh’s podcast
Sirach 38: Concerning Physicians and Health

Support Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Fr. Josh goes in depth on two questions: What principles should Catholics turn to when it comes to voting for a political candidate? And is celebrating Halloween morally acceptable?

Snippet from the Show
“Why would any follower of Jesus Christ vote for a candidate whose policies are diametrically and directly opposed to the core beliefs we hold sacred as Catholics?”

SHOWNOTES

Glory Story (2:08)

Listener Feedback (4:20)

Celebrating Halloween (9:49)
Hi Father Josh!! First off, thank God for your existence, I appreciate you! I’ve been listening to you since July when a brother named Erik at a conference for men, called Triumph, told me about you (he’s probably listening to this shout out to him). Your content is very informative and it feeds my spirit. My question is, Is Halloween bad to celebrate? I’ve heard things from yes, because you're celebrating the devil to yes because satanic people do things on Halloween. But I wanted to hear from a Father, what’s your opinion on it?

• Erik