Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Crash Course Catholicism
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catechism 101: The Argument from Contingency | 31 Aug 2026 | 00:07:27 | |
In this episode, we continue our series on St Thomas Aquinas' Five Ways by exploring his Third Way: the Argument from Contingency. Aquinas begins with a simple but profound observation: the things we encounter in the world don't have to exist. You exist, but you could have failed to exist. The same is true of trees, mountains, planets, stars, and everything else we encounter in the created world. Philosophers describe things like these as contingent beings. But if everything were contingent, i.e. if everything depended upon something else for its existence, then what ultimately explains why anything exists at all? Aquinas argues that contingent beings must ultimately depend upon a Necessary Being: a reality that does not receive its existence from anything else and cannot fail to exist. In this episode, we discuss:
This episode is part of our series exploring St Thomas Aquinas' Five Ways and the classical philosophical arguments for the existence of God. The First Way begins with change and leads us to an Unmoved Mover. The Second begins with efficient causality and leads us to a First Efficient Cause. And the Third begins with contingent existence and leads us to a Necessary Being. Whether you're interested in philosophy, Catholic theology, apologetics, metaphysics, or the relationship between faith and reason, I hope these episodes help make Aquinas' thought more accessible and encourage you to explore his arguments for yourself. SUPPORT THE PODCAST This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=6WSCLFHLCDXH2 Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/caitlinwest Contact: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| Catechism 101: The Argument from Efficient Causality | 25 Aug 2026 | 00:07:14 | |
<p>In this episode, we explore <strong>St Thomas Aquinas' Second Way</strong>, also known as the <strong>Argument from Efficient Causality</strong>. This is a classic cosmological argument for the existence of God.</p><p>Aquinas begins with a simple observation: everything we encounter in the world has a cause. Houses are built by builders, paintings are painted by artists, and trees grow from seeds. But if every cause depends on another cause, where does the chain ultimately begin? Aquinas argues that there must be a <strong>First Efficient Cause</strong> that gives existence and causal power to everything else.</p><p><strong>In this episode, we discuss:</strong></p><ul> <li>What an efficient cause is</li> <li>Why nothing can be the efficient cause of itself</li> <li>The difference between temporal and hierarchical chains of causation</li> <li>Why Aquinas rejects an infinite regress of essentially ordered causes</li> <li>Peter Kreeft's "borrowed book" analogy</li> <li>How the Second Way differs from the Argument from Motion</li> <li>What Aquinas means by a First Efficient Cause</li> <li>Why this argument points toward God's existence without yet establishing every Christian belief about God</li></ul><p>This episode is part of our series on <strong>St Thomas Aquinas' Five Ways</strong> and the classical arguments for the existence of God. Whether you're interested in philosophy, Catholic theology, apologetics, metaphysics, or the relationship between faith and reason, I hope these episodes help make Aquinas' thought more accessible and encourage you to explore these remarkable arguments for yourself.</p><p><strong>SUPPORT THE PODCAST</strong></p><p>This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links:</p><p> <strong>Donate via PayPal:</strong> <a href="https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=6WSCLFHLCDXH2">https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=6WSCLFHLCDXH2</a></p><p> <strong>Support on Patreon:</strong> <a href="https://www.patreon.com/caitlinwest">https://www.patreon.com/caitlinwest</a></p><p> <strong>Contact:</strong> <a href="https://www.caitlinwest.com">www.caitlinwest.com</a></p><p> <strong>Instagram:</strong> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/">https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/</a></p> | |||
| Catechism 101: The Argument from Motion | 17 Aug 2026 | 00:13:15 | |
In this episode, we explore St Thomas Aquinas’ First Way, also known as the Argument from Motion. This is one of the most influential philosophical arguments for the existence of God. Building on our introduction to cosmological arguments, we unpack Aquinas’ reasoning step by step. What does he mean by “motion”? Why does every change require a cause? And how does observing change in the world lead Aquinas to conclude that there must be an Unmoved Mover upon whom everything else depends? In this episode, we discuss:
This episode is part of our series on St Thomas Aquinas’ Five Ways and the classical arguments for the existence of God. Whether you’re interested in philosophy, Catholic theology, apologetics, metaphysics, or the relationship between faith and reason, I hope these episodes help make Aquinas’ thought more accessible and encourage you to explore his arguments for yourself. SUPPORT THE PODCAST This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating through the following links: Donate via PayPal: Support on Patreon: Contact: Instagram: | |||
| 121 - How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing War | Magnifica Humanitas Part 5 | 09 Aug 2026 | 00:45:07 | |
How is artificial intelligence changing war, and what does the Catholic Church have to say about it? In the final part of our series on Pope Leo's encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, we explore Chapter 5 and the conclusion of the encyclical, examining how artificial intelligence is reshaping warfare, global conflict, and the pursuit of peace. Pope Leo argues that the digital revolution is transforming the nature of war through cyberattacks, information manipulation, autonomous systems, and AI-assisted military decision-making. Yet he also offers a profoundly hopeful alternative: the call to build a "civilisation of love" rooted in justice, charity, dialogue, and the dignity of every human person. In this episode, we discuss: * How AI is changing the nature of modern warfare * The dangers of autonomous weapons and AI-driven military decisions * The dangers of reducing human beings to statistics and "collateral damage" * The rise of a "culture of power" and the normalisation of conflict * How algorithms and social media can fuel polarisation and division * Pope Leo's reflections on Just War Theory in the modern world * Nuclear deterrence, disarmament, and international cooperation * The ethical principles that should govern AI in warfare * What Pope Leo means by a "civilisation of love" * Five practical ways Christians can become peacemakers in the digital age * Why Jesus Christ, and not artificial intelligence, is the model of perfect humanity. This is the final episode in our chapter-by-chapter journey through Magnifica Humanitas. Whether you're interested in AI ethics, Catholic Social Teaching, theology, philosophy, international relations, or the future of technology, I hope this series has encouraged you to read the encyclical for yourself and reflect more deeply on what it means to remain fully human in the digital age. SUPPORT THE PODCAST This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=6WSCLFHLCDXH2 Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/caitlinwest Contact: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| Catechism 101: The Cosmological Argument for God's Existence | 02 Aug 2026 | 00:16:29 | |
How do we know that God exists? Can reason lead us to God? In this episode, we begin a new series exploring one of the most famous arguments for the existence of God: St Thomas Aquinas’ cosmological argument. Before diving into Aquinas’ First Way, we take a step back and look at the big picture. What exactly is a cosmological argument? How does it work? And why did Aquinas think that observing the ordinary world around us could lead us to the existence of a First Cause or Unmoved Mover? In this episode, we discuss:
This is the first episode in a series unpacking St Thomas Aquinas’ arguments for the existence of God. Whether you’re interested in philosophy, theology, apologetics, or simply wrestling with life’s biggest questions, I hope these episodes help make Aquinas’ thought more accessible and encourage you to explore these remarkable arguments for yourself. SUPPORT THE PODCAST This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating through the following links: Donate via PayPal: Support on Patreon: Contact: Instagram: | |||
| 120 - Truth & Freedom Under Threat | Magnifica Humanitas Part 4 | 26 Jul 2026 | 00:38:05 | |
In Part 4 of our series on Pope Leo's encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, we explore Chapter 4, which describes how artificial intelligence is reshaping truth, work, and freedom. Pope Leo warns that AI is not simply changing the tools we use. Instead, it is transforming the way we seek truth, the way we work, and the way we exercise our freedom. In this episode, we discuss: * How AI is amplifying disinformation and blurring the line between truth and opinion * Why Truth is a common good and not a tool for power * The importance of education, critical thinking, and digital sobriety * Why work is so important for humans * How AI should support human work rather than replace the human person * How digital technologies can weaken our freedom * The hidden human cost of AI, including exploitation, modern slavery, and digital colonialism This is Part 4 of our chapter-by-chapter journey through Magnifica Humanitas. Whether you're interested in AI ethics, Catholic social teaching, philosophy, technology, or the future of humanity, I hope these reflections encourage you to read the encyclical for yourself and discover the Church's hopeful vision for placing technology at the service of the human person. SUPPORT THE PODCAST This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=6WSCLFHLCDXH2 Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/caitlinwest Contact: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| Conversations Ep. 2 – Bit by Bit with Lucinda | 19 Jul 2026 | 00:57:25 | |
Conversion doesn't always happen in a single blinding moment of clarity. Sometimes, like drops of water slowly filling a glass, conversion to the Catholic faith is the result of countless conversations, experiences, and quiet moments accumulated over many years. In today's episode, I speak with Lucinda -- a teacher and Cambridge graduate -- about her journey to the Catholic Church. Through conversations with friends, encounters with Evangelical Christians and faithful Catholics, and even a visit to Auschwitz, Lucinda gradually came to understand and embrace the Catholic faith. Lucinda's conversion story is a powerful reminder that every small act of kindness, every thoughtful conversation, and every example of faithful living can shape another person's search for truth in ways we may never see. Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| 119 - AI, Transhumanism, and the Fight to Stay Human | Magnifica Humanitas Part 3 | 12 Jul 2026 | 00:36:31 | |
What are the greatest threats that artificial intelligence poses, and how can we remain fully human in the age of AI? In Part 3 of our series on Pope Leo's encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, we explore Chapter 3 of the encyclical and examine the opportunities, dangers, and moral questions surrounding artificial intelligence. Pope Leo argues that AI is not simply another technological innovation. It is reshaping the way we think, make decisions, relate to one another, and even understand what it means to be human. Drawing on the Church's rich philosophical and theological tradition, he warns against the rise of a "technocratic paradigm" -- a culture that prizes efficiency, control, and profit above the dignity of the human person.In this episode, we discuss: * What Pope Leo means by the "technocratic paradigm" * Why technological progress must be accompanied by moral progress * How artificial intelligence differs fundamentally from human intelligence * The dangers of overreliance on AI, algorithms, and simulated relationships * Why AI should never replace human moral judgment or accountability * The importance of political oversight, subsidiarity, and the common good in AI governance * Why we need to "disarm AI" * The rise of transhumanism and posthumanism * Why our limitations are not defects to eliminate but part of what it means to be human * How God's grace and not technology is the path to becoming truly "more than human" This is Part 3 of our chapter-by-chapter journey through Magnifica Humanitas. Whether you're interested in AI ethics, Catholic theology, philosophy, technology, or the future of humanity, I hope these reflections encourage you to read the encyclical for yourself and discover the Church's deeply hopeful vision for the digital age. SUPPORT THE PODCAST This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=6WSCLFHLCDXH2 Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/caitlinwest Contact: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| Catechism 101: How to be Certain God Exists | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:12:04 | |
“God, the first principle and last end of all things, can be known with certainty from the created world by the natural light of human reason.” The Catechism of the Catholic Church, p. 36 In this episode of Catechism 101, we discuss how we can know for sure that God exists. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| 118 - Social Doctrine in the Digital Age | Magnifica Humanitas Part 2 | 29 Jun 2026 | 00:39:12 | |
What does Catholic Social Doctrine have to say about artificial intelligence? In Part 2 of our series on Pope Leo's encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, we explore chapters 1 and 2 of the encyclical and discover why the Church's social doctrine is more relevant than ever in the digital age. Pope Leo does not create an entirely new moral framework for AI. Instead, he shows how the timeless principles of Catholic Social Teaching (human dignity, the common good, solidarity, subsidiarity, social justice, and integral human development) help us navigate the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence. In this episode, we discuss:
This is Part 2 of our chapter-by-chapter journey through Magnifica Humanitas. Whether you're interested in AI ethics, Catholic theology, philosophy, technology, or Catholic Social Teaching, I hope these reflections encourage you to read the encyclical for yourself and think more deeply about what it means to remain fully human in the digital age. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| Catechism 101: The Universal Desire for God | 22 Jun 2026 | 00:17:16 | |
“The desire for God is written in the human heart, because man is created by God and for God; and God never ceases to draw man to himself. Only in God will he find the truth and happiness he never stops searching for” The Catechism of the Catholic Church, p 27 In this episode of Catechism 101, we discuss the universal desire for God. This desire is written in our hearts, and is made visible through our search for Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| 117 - AI, Humanity, and the Church | Magnifica Humanitas Part 1 | 15 Jun 2026 | 00:29:11 | |
In this first episode of our series on Pope Leo's encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, we explore what the Catholic Church has to say about artificial intelligence, the digital revolution, and what it means to be truly human. Pope Leo argues that AI is not simply another technological innovation. It is reshaping the way we work, communicate, think, and even understand ourselves. Drawing on the biblical stories of the Tower of Babel and Nehemiah, he challenges us to build a future rooted not in pride or efficiency alone, but in human dignity, communion, and the common good. This episode covers:
This is Part 1 of our chapter-by-chapter journey through Magnifica Humanitas. Whether you're interested in Catholic social teaching, AI ethics, technology, philosophy, or theology, I hope these reflections encourage you to read the encyclical for yourself and join the conversation. Question for listeners: 00:00 – Introduction This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| Catechism 101: Signs of Faith | 08 Jun 2026 | 00:10:30 | |
Faith is more than intellectual belief. If we think about it, even the devil technically *believes* in God. So what does true faith actually look like? In this episode of Catechism 101, we talk through four key signs of faith from the Catechism: Faith is free, active, overflowing, and dynamic.
Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| 116 - You Were Made for Love: Theology of the Body pt.2 | 02 Jun 2026 | 00:34:01 | |
What does it mean to be a human person? What does love actually look like? What does the body reveal to us about God and the meaning of life? Theology of the Body isn't just about sex. It's about what it means to be human. In this episode, we explore some of the foundational ideas that St. John Paul II returns to again and again in his catechesis. We introduce key themes including the dignity of the body, the meaning of love, JPII's famous claim that the opposite of love isn't hate: it's use. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com References and further reading/listening/viewing: St. John Paul II: Pope Paul VI, Humanae Vitae Theology of the Body Institute Christopher West:
Fr Mike Schmitz, The Thomistic Institute, "Theology of the Body: An Overview" St Paul Centre, "What's the Point of Theology of the Body? Dr. Scott Hahn Explains" | |||
| Catechism 101: How Faith Works | 25 May 2026 | 00:14:35 | |
How does faith actually work? There's a gap between logically knowing something is true and actually believing it. In this episode of Catechism 101, we unpack exactly what it takes to cross that gap. This episode covers:
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 — Introduction 2:11 — Why we can't force faith 3:39 — The ocean metaphor 4:44 — Breaking down an act of faith 7:56 — Why the information source matters 13:25 — What to do if you're struggling to believe CRASH COURSE CATHOLICISM A series on Catholic teaching and why it makes sense. ▶ Previous episode — What Is Faith?: https://youtu.be/dSs_AxrpiKE ▶ Full playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLw6henAD9rk0-RxLqLoqycLVftmfFo9-r ▶ Read the blog post: https://www.caitlinwest.com/post/how-faith-works SUPPORT THE PODCAST This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of viewers. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ #HowFaithWorks #CatholicFaith #CatholicTeaching #Catechism #Catholicism | |||
| 115 - History and Context: Theology of the Body Pt. 1 | 18 May 2026 | 00:25:09 | |
What is the Theology of the Body? Why was it developed, and why is it still relevant today? In this episode, we begin our next deep dive (!) by telling the story of the development of ToB. From the fallout of the sexual revolution to Humanae Vitae and Pope St. John Paul II’s revolutionary vision of the human person, we ask why TOB remains one of the Church’s most important teachings today. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Christopher West: "What Is the Theology of the Body? | Introduction to Theology of the Body" Godsplaining, "Does Christian Marriage Really Have Two Ends?" | |||
| Catechism 101: What is Faith? | 11 May 2026 | 00:08:01 | |
What is faith, really? In this episode of Catechism 101, we unpack what faith actually means according to Catholic teaching. Spoiler: it's NOT blind faith. This episode covers:
TIMESTAMPS CRASH COURSE CATHOLICISM SUPPORT THE PODCAST Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ #WhatIsFaith #CatholicFaith #CatholicTeaching #Catechism #Catholicism | |||
| 114 - Mother Teresa: Love for the Poorest of the Poor | 04 May 2026 | 00:29:54 | |
"At the hour of death we are going to be judged on what we have been to the poor, to the hungry, naked, the homeless." Mother Teresa lived this truth with radical simplicity and unwavering love. From the streets of Calcutta, she dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor, restoring dignity to those the world had forgotten. Today, her legacy continues through the Missionaries of Charity, whose work reaches the most vulnerable across the globe. In this episode, we explore the life and witness of Mother Teresa, reflecting on the foundations of her sanctity: deep prayer, devotion to the Eucharist, joy and cheerfulness, the embrace of suffering, and a life poured out in self-giving love. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Come Be My Light: The private writings of the "Saint of Calcutta" Something Beautiful for God (book) Something Beautiful for God (documentary) Mother Teresa's Nobel Prize Acceptance Speech Bishop Barron on Saint Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa) Bishop Barron on Mother Teresa and Her Sisters Ascension: How Mother Teresa Set the World on Fire | |||
| Announcing a new chapter... | 02 May 2026 | 00:03:42 | |
Video mini-episodes are here! In this introductory video, I explain an exciting new chapter for Crash Course Catholicism. Thank you to all the Patrons and supporters who have made this work possible! This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| 113 - Social, Political, and Economic Rights | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:39:32 | |
In this episode, we explore the human person's right to:
This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church The Catechism of the Catholic Church, pt 2241 Pope John XXIII, Pacem in Terris Vatican II, Apostolicam Actuositatem John Paul II, Familiaris Consortio Pope Pius XI, Quadragesimo Anno Trent Horn, Answering Catholics who claim "deportation is intrinsically evil". If you're wanting to think *specifically* about immigration in the USA, here are some additional resources that might be useful:United States Conference of Catholic Bishops: https://www.usccb.org/topics/immigrationStrangers No Longer: Together on the Journey of Hope: https://www.usccb.org/resources/strangers-no-longer | |||
| 112 - Fundamental Human Rights (Life, Dignity, Equality, Freedom) | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:33:44 | |
In this episode, we explore every human person's right to:
This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church The Catechism of the Catholic Church, pts 2259-83 Pope John XXIII, Pacem in Terris Pope Paul VI, Populorum Progressio Vatican II, Gaudium et Spes USCCB, Life and Dignity of the Human Person Pope Paul VI, Gravissimum Educationis EWTN, How the Catholic view of human rights developed Thomas Aquinas, The Summa Theologiae, II.ii.64 Catholic Answers, What About the Right to Die? Catholic Answers, Is Deportation Immoral? The International Theological Commission, The Dignity and Rights of the Human Person | |||
| 111 - What are Human Rights? | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:29:04 | |
What are Human Rights? How are they different from other kinds of rights? Are Human Rights inherent, or are they a social construct? In this episode, we continue our exploration of Catholic Social Doctrine by considering the nature of Human Rights. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church, pts 152-59 Pope Paul VI, Octogesima Adveniens The International Theological Commission, "The Dignity and Rights of the Human Person" Catholic Relief Services, "CST 101 | Rights and Responsibilities" Bishop Robert Barron, "Dignitas Infinita" | |||
| 110 - What Makes a Human Being? | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:28:39 | |
We are made in the image of God, and this truth has profound implications for how we understand the human person. In this episode, we explore key dimensions of human personhood, including freedom, responsibility, the capacity for transcendence, uniqueness and unrepeatability, and equality. Understanding the full depth and complexity of human nature is essential for social doctrine, because our understanding of the human person forms the foundation of human rights. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church, pts 127-151 St. John Paul II, Homily at Oriole Park, Camden Yards, Baltimore, 1995. St. John Paul II, Redemptor Hominis William Shakespeare, Julius Caesar, Act 1, scene 2 | |||
| 109 - Human Nature and Human Dignity | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:29:51 | |
The whole of Catholic social doctrine rests on the answer to the question: What is a human being? In this episode, we discuss human nature and human dignity. What does it mean to be made in the image of God? What makes human beings unique in comparison with the rest of nature? Do human beings have a particular dignity, or are we just intelligent animals? Understanding what a human person is helps us to see why human beings must always be at the centre of every society. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church, pts 105-134 Catechism of the Catholic Church, pt 357 John Paul II, Redemptor Hominis Jose Angel Lombo and Francesco Russo, Philosophical Anthropology: An Introduction USCCB, "Life and Dignity of the Human Person" Pope Pius XI, Mit Brennender Sorge - particularly this passage: "8. Whoever exalts race, or the people, or the State, or a particular form of State, or the depositories of power, or any other fundamental value of the human community - however necessary and honorable be their function in worldly things - whoever raises these notions above their standard value and divinizes them to an idolatrous level, distorts and perverts an order of the world planned and created by God; he is far from the true faith in God and from the concept of life which that faith upholds." Hot Fuzz, dir. Edgar Wright Also, for anyone who teaches English or Philosophy, I recommend the play Juniper Blood, by Mike Bartlett. The plot basically revolves around the question of how to balance our responsibility to the planet with our responsibilities to the people closest to us. The question 'what is the value of a human being?' is really at the heart of the play. Highly recommended as a text for students (mature students -- the play contains a few sexual references and depictions of drug use), super relevant to the questions we're exploring in this episode. | |||
| 108 - The Biblical Roots of Social Doctrine | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:32:09 | |
Catholic social doctrine did not suddenly appear in the nineteenth century. Its roots reach back to the very foundations of Scripture. In this episode, we explore the biblical vision of social life: a world shaped by justice, mercy, solidarity, and the command to love one another. From the law and the prophets to the teaching of Christ, the Bible reveals that social responsibility is not an optional extra to the Christian life. Rather, it flows directly from who God is and who we are called to become. These biblical foundations form the heart of the Church’s social teaching today. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church, Pts 1-50 JPII, Mulieris Dignitatem The Catechism of the Catholic Church, pts. 1906; 2062 Deuteronomy 15:7-8 Leviticus 19:33-34 John 13:34-35; 17:21-22 Catholic Answers, Natural Law | |||
| 107 - Introduction to Social Doctrine | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:34:20 | |
Happy New Year, friends! Welcome to the first episode on our next deep dive into the Social Doctrine of the Catholic church! This is an incredibly rich and important area of Catholic teaching that helps us to understand how human beings should function in societies. It covers topics such as human rights, the rights of workers, the responsibilities of employers, governments, and individuals, and the conditions necessary for human flourishing. In today's episode, we begin with an overview of social doctrine -- what it is and why we need it -- before summarising the history of the development of social doctrine, especially during the twentieth century. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: The Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church USCCB: Seven Themes of Catholic Social Teaching CBCEW A Summary of Catholic Social Teaching Fr Roger Charles, Introduction to Catholic Social Teaching Catholic Answers: 20 Answers: Catholic Social Teaching Does Catholic Social Teaching Change? Are All Elements of Catholic Social Teaching Equally Important? Broken Bay Diocese, Pope Leo XIV reveals reason behind name choice | |||
| 106 - St Nicholas: The Original Santa Claus | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:23:01 | |
What do we know about the life of St Nicholas of Myra? What is his relationship with the modern-day Santa Claus? Should Catholics tell their children that Santa exists? PLEASE NOTE: This entire episode is one giant spoiler about the existence of Santa Claus. If you have small children who have not yet been disillusioned, you might want to listen to this one when they're not in the room. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Catholic Encyclopedia, St Nicholas of Myra Britannica Encyclopedia, St Nicholas Catholic Answers: Santa Claus for Catholics: Yes or No? The Weird History of Santa Claus St Nicholas of Myra, by Michael the Archimandrite Amber Rose, Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus? Catholic Ways to Celebrate! The Augustine Institute, St Nicholas and Santa Claus | |||
| 105 - St. John Henry Newman | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:29:11 | |
Cardinal St John Henry Newman is a Catholic saint who lived in the nineteenth century and was canonised in 2019. In November 2025, he was officially declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Leo XIV. This is a title held by only 38 saints in the entire history of the church, and it is given to those whose writings are of benefit to the whole church. John Henry Newman was an Anglican priest and Oxford academic who converted to Catholicism and was eventually made a cardinal. He is one of the most significant Catholic figures of the nineteenth century, known for his academic brilliance and his personal holiness. In today's episode, we discuss the life of this incredible saint. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: The Newman Reader - Works of John Henry Newman St. John Henry Newman: "Conscience", from A Letter Addressed to the Duke of Norfolk The "Biglietto Speech" Philip Boyce, "Newman's Reception into the Catholic church" Bishop Robert Barron: Bishop Barron Q&A on St. John Henry Newman’s Life, Theology, and Books Bishop Barron on St. John Henry Newman: Beyond the Left and the Right Celebrating St. John Henry Newman Becoming a Doctor of the Church Dr Scott Hahn on Newman's conversion Cardinal Newman's Legacy | Scott Hahn w/ Jeff Morrow St. John Henry Newman: Meeting the Challenges of Modernity EWTN: St. John Henry Newman: From Anglican to Saint Cardinal Focus: The Life and Legacy of John Henry Cardinal Newman The Life of Saint John Henry Newman: From Anglican Priest to Catholic Saint Discover the life of St. John Henry Newman to-be Doctor of the Church | |||
| 104 - Bible Questions Pt. 3 | 27 Nov 2025 | 00:33:16 | |
caitlinwest.com FINAL EPISODE OF THE DEEP DIVE LET'S GOOOO In this episode, we consider common moral problems that people encounter when they read the Bible. Why does the God of the Old Testament seem so angry and cruel, while Jesus seems merciful and loving? Why does God give such harsh punishments to people in the Old Testament? Does the Bible condone things like slavery and genocide? What about all those people who do terrible things in the Bible? Basically just a few really easy simple questions that aren't at all controversial, you're welcome. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Matthew 22:37-40 Isaiah 13:9 2 Kings 13 Joshua 11:8-9 The Catechism of the Catholic Church, pts. 42, 53 Trent Horn, Hard Sayings Jimmy Akin, Genocide in the Bible Joe Heschmeyer, Did God Command Genocide in the Old Testament? The Bible in a Year, Day 32: Cattle, Boils, and Hail Catholic Answers: Does the Bible Support Slavery? Pope Benedict XVI: God and the World: Believing and Living in Our Time The Catholic Encyclopedie, Slavery and Christianity Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologiae, II.i, Q.79 Fr Mike Schmitz: Old Testament God vs. New Testament God Pints With Aquinas, The Problem of Violence in The Old Testament? /W Trent Horn Bishop Robert Barron, Understanding Violence in the Old Testament Breaking In The Habit, Why is God so Angry in the Old Testament? | |||
| 103 - Bible Questions Pt. 2 | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:27:34 | |
www.caitlinwest.com - What should we do about all those apparent historical and scientific inaccuracies in the Bible? Like Genesis telling us the world was made in seven days, or that there was a flood that covered the whole earth, or that Jonah survived in the belly of a whale for three days? And what about contradictions within the Bible? Why do some of the Gospel writers recount events differently? Do these discrepancies undermine the reliability of the Bible? In this episode, we continue our discussion of common questions about the Bible. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: www.caitlinwest.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing:
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| 102 - Bible Questions Pt. 1 | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:30:21 | |
www.caitlinwest.com - How did the Church decide which books to include in the Bible? Why are Catholic Bibles bigger than Protestant Bibles? Should we read the Old Testament? How do I read the Bible? In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the Bible by addressing common questions about the Bible. This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing:
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| 101 - The New Testament Pt. 3 | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:24:42 | |
www.caitlinwest.com - In this episode, we conclude our overview of the Bible by looking at the 7 catholic epistles, and the book of Revelation. The aim of these episodes is to provide us with a bird's-eye view of the whole Bible, to help equip us to begin reading it, or to read it more deeply. In this episode, we'll look at the following books:
This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Peter Kreeft, You Can Understand the Bible Scott Hahn, Catholic Bible Dictionary USCCB, Books of the Bible The Catholic Encyclopedia: Catholic Answers: Letter Writing in the Ancient World | |||
| 100 - The New Testament Pt. 2 | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:27:39 | |
www.caitlinwest.com - GUYS IT'S OUR 100TH EPISODE!!! In this episode, we continue our overview of the Bible by looking at the 13 Pauline Epistles. We consider when each letter was written and why, and what its key aims and themes are. The aim of these episodes is to provide us with a bird's-eye view of the whole Bible, to help equip us to begin reading it, or to read it more deeply. In this episode, we'll look at the following books:
This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Peter Kreeft, You Can Understand the Bible Scott Hahn, Catholic Bible Dictionary USCCB, Books of the Bible The Catholic Encyclopedia: Catholic Answers: Letter Writing in the Ancient World The Letters to the Corinthians Augustine Institute: Introduction to St. Paul | |||
| 99 - The New Testament Pt. 1 | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:27:50 | |
www.caitlinwest.com - In this episode, we continue our overview of the Bible by looking at the first five books of the New Testament: The Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. We consider who wrote each book, when it was written, and what its key aims and themes are. The aim of these episodes is to provide us with a bird's-eye view of the whole Bible, to help equip us to begin reading it, or to read it more deeply. In this episode, we'll look at the following books: The Gospel of Matthew The Gospel of Mark The Gospel of Luke The Gospel of John The Acts of the Apostles This podcast relies 100% on the generosity of listeners. If you have found these episodes helpful and would like to support the future of Crash Course Catholicism, please consider donating via the following links: Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Jesús Gil, Joseángel Domínguez, Bible Portico Scott Hahn, The Catholic Bible Dictionary Peter Kreeft, You Can Understand the Bible USCCB, Books of the Bible The Bible in a Year: Catholic Answers: The Gospel According to Matthew The Catholic Encyclopedia: Tim Gray, How to Read the Acts of the Apostles Dr Regis Martin, A New Way To Read John's Gospel Dr John Bergsma, Everything You Need to Know About St. Matthew (and His Gospel) The Augustine Institute, The Gospel of Matthew (Part 1) | |||
| Conversations Ep. 1 – From Protestant to Catholic with Tim Hutchinson | 19 Aug 2025 | 01:24:40 | |
www.caitlinwest.com In this episode, we take a brief intermission from our Bible deep dive to chat with Tim Hutchinson, a convert from Protestantism to Catholicism. Tim grew up in a vibrant Evangelical Christian community where he learned to love God and the Bible deeply. But one question kept troubling him: why are Protestant denominations so divided? Surely the Church Jesus founded wasn’t meant to be so fractured. For years, he found no answer to his question, until one unexpected comment at a party struck him like lightning and set him on a journey that led him home to the Catholic Church. In this conversation, Tim shares the joys and struggles of his conversion and the discoveries that he made along the way. Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: | |||
| 98 - The Old Testament Pt. 2 | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:37:40 | |
www.caitlinwest.com In this episode, we continue our overview of the books of the Old Testament. We discuss the Wisdom books and the Prophetic books, and consider what each book is about, who wrote it, when it was written, and what its key themes are. The aim of these episodes is to provide us with a bird's-eye view of the whole Bible, to help equip us to begin reading it, or to read it more deeply. In this episode, we'll look at the following books: THE WISDOM BOOKS
THE PROPHETIC BOOKS
Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing:
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| 97 - The Old Testament Pt. 1 | 23 Jul 2025 | 00:38:41 | |
www.caitlinwest.com Welcome to the books of the Bible! In these next few episodes, we'll go through all 73 (!!) books of the Bible - both the Old Testament and the New Testament. We'll briefly summarise each book, and discuss what it's about, what its key themes are, and where it sits in the Bible and the broader narrative of salvation history. The aim of these episodes is to provide us with a bird's-eye view of the whole Bible, to help equip us to begin reading it, or to read it more deeply. In this episode, we'll look at the following books: THE PENTATEUCH
THE HISTORICAL BOOKS
STRAP IN FOLKS HERE WE GO Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing:
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| 96 - The Bible: Introduction | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:29:12 | |
www.caitlinwest.com What is the Bible, really, and how do we read it? How can we say that the Bible is both the Word of God and the work of human authors? What should we do when we come across a tricky passage that we don't know how to interpret? Welcome to our next deep dive! In these next few episodes, we'll unpack some of the most common questions about the Bible, and lay a foundation for how to approach it as Catholics. Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing:
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| 95 - St. Augustine: Convert, Sinner, Saint. | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:44:29 | |
www.caitlinwest.com To wrap up our deep dive into the existence of God, in this episode we take a look at the life of St Augustine. St. Augustine is a doctor of the church, and one of the greatest saints in the history of Christianity. But before his conversion, he spent his youth struggling with sin, heresy, vanity, and lust. He was the product of a culture that celebrated male sexual exploits as a sign of status and masculinity, and he felt that happiness was not possible for him without the freedom to satisfy his sexual appetites. Although he was gifted and educated, and sincerely sought the Truth, Augustine's attachment to sin got in the way of a personal relationship with God. It took many years, and a lot of prayers and support from his mother and his friends, before he was able to reconcile himself to the Christian faith. Augustine struggled with many of the questions that people grapple with today: if God exists, why is there evil in the world? How can God say he loves us when he makes us suffer? Is chastity compatible with happiness? Although Augustine lived 1600 years ago, his story is strikingly modern. His life demonstrates to us that God can always work miracles, and that it is never too late to turn back to him. Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Romans Chapter 13 The Confessions of St Augustine Bishop Barron, "A Life of Heroic Sanctity: Augustine of Hippo" The Catholic Encyclopedia, "St Augustine" The Catholic Encyclopedia, "St Monica" | |||
| 94 - Common Atheist Objections Pt. 2 | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:35:14 | |
www.caitlinwest.com "The fact that people's religion tends to align with the culture and country that they grew up in shows that religion is just a cultural construct" "There are so many hypocritical people who have used religion to abuse others, to start wars, or to seek power. These people undermine the validity of religion." "We no longer need God; science explains everything we need to know." "If God exists, then why is there so much suffering and evil in the world?" In this episode, we wrap up our discussion of objections to belief in God. Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Pew Research Center, The Global Religious Landscape St. Thomas Aquinas, The Summa Theologiae, 1.2 Trent Horn, Answering Atheism National Catholic Register, Does God Want Everyone to Be Catholic? The Problem of Evil: Actually, It's Complicated Catholic Answers: Christian HypocrisyAre You a Hypocrite?How can the Church be true when it produces hypocrisy? How to Answer the Problem of Evil Fr Mike Schmitz, "Judgmental, Bigoted, Homophobic, Elitist, and Hypocritical" (The World’s Perception of Christians) Augustine of Hippo: God Enlarges the Capacity of Our Soul that He may Fill Us with His Presence G.K. Chesterton on the Problem of Evil Bishop Robert Barron, Bishop Barron on Scientism and God's Existence Bishop Barron on God, Tsunamis, and the Problem of Evil Bishop Barron on Atheism and Philosophy Bishop Barron Comments on Stephen Fry, Job, and Suffering The Thomistic Institute, The Problem of Evil (Aquinas 101) Fr Gregory Pine, Does the Presence of Evil Disprove the Existence of God? Word on Fire Institute, How the Problem of Evil Points to God's Existence Peter Kreeft, God's Answer to Suffering William Lane Graig on the Problem of Evil The Counsel of Trent, God vs evil (with Alex O’Connor, Joe Schmid, and Cameron Bertuzzi) Capturing Christianity, God Allows Evil and God is Evil? | |||
| 93 - Common Atheist Objections Pt. 1 | 25 May 2025 | 00:33:24 | |
"Atheists don't need to substantiate their position; the burden of proof lies with the theist because they're the one making a positive claim to belief." "God is just something people turn to for comfort." "Atheists just believe in one god fewer than Christians do." "There is no evidence for the existence of God." "If God is good and He loves me, then why is He so difficult to find?" In this episode, we cover some common objections to belief in God. Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: What happens when we seek God but can't find Him? with Alex O'Connor and Fr. Pine DEBATE: God's Existence - Alex O'Connor Vs. Trent HornBertrand Russell and Frederick Copleston Debate Alex O'Connor, This is Why I Don't Believe in God Ben Watkins: Why I Am An Atheist Atheists Respond to The Fine Tuning Argument for God Good example of rhetorical language: The All-Time Best Arguments Against Religion Dan Barker, Losing Faith in Faith Britannica, Flying Spaghetti Monster Capturing Christianity: Is There Really "No Evidence" for God? Top 10 Christian vs. Atheist Debates EVERYONE Should Watch Paul Chamberlain: Why People Don't Believe: Confronting Seven Challenges to Christian Faith John DeRosa, One Less God Than You Fr Gregory Pine, If God Exists, Where Is He? Bishop Barron: Bishop Robert Barron on Who God Is & Who God Isn't Bishop Barron on Atheism and Philosophy Bishop Barron on Stephen Hawking and Atheism The best atheist arguments, explained by a Catholic bishop | Bishop Robert Barron Catholic Answers: Atheists keep making this terrible argument. Is there sufficient evidence for God’s existence? Can science prove or disprove the existence of God? 10 Possible Reasons for a ‘Hidden’ God Does it Matter That Science Can't Detect God? How Science Proves God's Existence Trent Horn, The "Evil God" Challenge (REBUTTED) William Lane Craig vs. Frank Zindler, Atheism vs. Christianity Word on Fire: How Can Anyone Say They "Know" Catholicism is True? | |||
| 92 - Kalam, Fine Tuning, Beauty, and Consciousness | 11 May 2025 | 00:40:00 | |
In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the question: How do we know God exists? Today we will give an overview of various popular arguments for the existence of God, including the Kalam Cosmological Argument, the fine tuning of the universe, William Paley’s Watchmaker Argument, the argument from aesthetic experience, and Pascal’s wager. Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: William Lane Craig: The Kalam Cosmological Argument - Part 1: Scientific The Kalam Cosmological Argument - Part 2: Philosophical The Fine-Tuning of the Universe. Impossible Universe: The Reality of Cosmic Fine Tuning Pascal’s Wager: A Good Argument? Does the Kalam Argument Work? w/ Dr. William Lane Craig & Jimmy Akin OK Go - This Too Shall Pass - Rube Goldberg Machine Kalaam Argument for God Debated | Jimmy Akin & Trent Horn Trent Horn: Rebutting atheist objections to the fine-tuning argument The Argument for God Atheists Fear the Most Peter Kreeft Pascal's Wager W/ Peter Kreeft Twenty Arguments for God’s Existence C.S. Lewis, Miracles, Chapter Three Edward Feser: Five Proofs of the Existence of God | |||
| How Papal Conclaves Work | 03 May 2025 | 00:11:36 | |
In this short, bonus episode, we discuss what a papal conclave looks like. How does voting work? How many votes are needed for someone to be elected pope? Why is the process so secretive? The information in this episode comes from "Universi Dominici Gregis", an apostolic constitution which outlines the prescriptions for papal elections. The full document can be found here. Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ | |||
| 91 - Aquinas' Five Ways Pt. 2 | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:28:09 | |
In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the question: How do we know God exists? Today we will wrap up our discussion of St. Thomas Aquinas's Five Ways by analysing the Fourth Way (the argument from gradation/degree) and the Fifth Way (the argument from order). Aquinas' Five Ways are among the most famous arguments for the existence of God, and they have been hugely influential in the history of the Philosophy of Religion. They have also been at times misunderstood and misrepresented, so in this series, we're taking the time to delve deep and understand what, exactly, Aquinas is arguing. Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Summa Theologiae Part 1, Question 2 Edward Feser: Five Proofs of the Existence of God Empirical science and the transcendentals Four Causes and Five WaysRéginald Garrigou-Lagrange, The one God: a commentary on the first part of St. Thomas' Theological summa. The Thomistic Institute: St. Thomas Aquinas' Fifth Way & Arguments from Modern Science (Aquinas 101) St. Thomas' SIMPLEST Proof for the Existence of God (Aquinas 101)Thomas Joseph White #9: The Fifth Way (I, 2, 3) Thomas Joseph White #8: The Fourth Way (I, 2, 3) Why is the Fourth Way the LEAST Popular of St. Thomas' Five Ways? (Aquinas 101) Why Does Truth Depend Upon Being in St. Thomas' Fourth Way? (Aquinas 101) The Fourth Way: If You’re the Tallest, You’re Also a Cause! (Aquinas 101) Pints With Aquinas: Explaining Thomas Aquinas' Proofs | |||
| 90 - Aquinas' Five Ways Pt. 1 | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:35:42 | |
Welcome to our deep-dive into the question: How do we know God exists? In this series, we return to the topic of God's existence, which we covered aaall the way back in Episode 2 (!!), and we break it open to explore it more deeply. In this episode, we look at St. Thomas Aquinas's first three 'ways', or arguments for God's existence. These are among the most famous arguments for the existence of God, and they have been hugely influential in the history of the Philosophy of Religion. They have also been at times misunderstood and misrepresented, so in this series we're taking the time to delve deep and understand what, exactly, Aquinas is arguing. Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing:Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologiae Part 1, Question 2 Edward Feser: Five Proofs of the Existence of God "Scholastic regress arguments" Catholic Answers, "What Caused God?" Peter Kreeft, "The First Cause Argument" Thomas Joseph White: The Thomistic Institute: "Five Ways to Prove God Exists (Aquinas 101)" "St. Thomas Aquinas' Favorite Argument for the Existence of God (Aquinas 101)" "What's Wrong With St. Thomas Aquinas' First Proof for the Existence of God? (Aquinas 101)" "How St. Thomas Aquinas' Second Way for Proving the Existence of God Works (Aquinas 101)" "How St. Thomas Proves God's Existence Through Efficient Causality (Aquinas 101)" "What is Efficient Causality? (Aquinas 101)" "St. Thomas' Third Way: You Didn't Have To Exist—But You Do! (Aquinas 101)" "The Third Way: How St. Thomas Argues for God’s Existence From Contingency (Aquinas 101)" "The Third Way: Another Take On The Argument (Aquinas 101)" Bishop Barron on Thomas Aquinas and the Argument from Motion | |||
| 89 - Love! | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:38:47 | |
Welcome baaaaaaaack it's Season 3! In this season, we're plumbing the depths of Catholicism and the Catechism, doing deep-dives into topics that we have only touched on previously, like the existence of God, the bible, the social doctrine of the church, and theology of the body. In this episode, we round off an exploration of the three theological virtues - Faith, Hope, and Love - which we began in our very first episode, by talking about Love. What is Love? Is it just a feeling? Am I obliged to love people who have harmed me, or who are committing evil acts? References and further reading/listening/viewing:
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| 88 - Hope! | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:31:54 | |
Happy 2025! Let's talk about Hope! Pope Francis has declared 2025 a jubilee year - a year of reconciliation, healing, and mercy. The theme for this jubilee year is "Pilgrims of Hope." So what does it mean to have Hope? How can we grow in Hope, even when bad things are happening? How can we be signs of Hope to others? We'll also wrap up this episode with a quick update on the next few months for the podcast. References and further reading/listening/viewing: Romans 5Pope Francis, Spes non...
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| 87 - Mary: Conceived without sin | 09 Dec 2024 | 00:31:36 | |
What does the "Immaculate Conception" mean? Where do we see evidence of Mary's sinlessness in the Bible? What did the early church fathers have to say about Mary? Why is Mary so important? In this episode, we look at the Catholic church's dogma of the Immaculate Conception. Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: Genesis 3L...
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| 86 - How Annulment Works | 24 Nov 2024 | 00:33:33 | |
What is a declaration of nullity, and how is it different from divorce? Can the Catholic church ever dissolve a marriage? What factors would render a marriage null? What does the process of annulment involve? In this episode, we look at the often-misunderstood process of annulment. Donate via PayPal Support us on Patreon! Contact the podcast: crashcoursecatholicism@gmail.com. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crashcoursecatholicism/ References and further reading/listening/viewing: M...
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| 85 - Some Useful Terminology | 11 Nov 2024 | 00:31:37 | |
What's the difference between doctrine and dogma? What's an ecumenical council and how is it different from a synod? What's an encyclical, or an apostolic exhortation, or a papal bull? In this episode, we cover terminology that often comes up in Catholic teaching: DoctrineDogmaEcumenical councilSynodApostolic ConstitutionEncyclicalApostolic ExhortationApostolic LetterMoto ProprioPapal BullVatican Holy SeeReferences and further reading/listening/viewing: Pope Francis, Dilexit Nos Fr Mik...
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