Explore every episode of the podcast Jesuitical

This week on Jesuitical, Colleen Dulle joins hosts Zac Davis and Sebasian Gomes to discuss Pope Leo’s recent visit to France, including his messages on assisted dying, European identity and the role of the Catholic Church in a secular country. Colleen also reflects on her experience of traveling with the pope for the first time. ⁠Sign up for Colleen’s newsletter, Vatican Notebook⁠! Chapters: 00:00 First time on the papal plane! 4:02 Why Pope Leo went to France 6:45 Catholic revival? 9:43 Secularity in France 14:02 Pro-life issues in France 17:57 Is Europe a "Christian" culture? 24:55 Pope meets abuse victims 34:08 Liturgy and division Links: ⁠Pope Leo’s trip to France won’t be a victory lap—and that’s a good thing.⁠ ⁠Vatican Notebook: Pope Leo navigates tensions between secularism and Catholic history on France visit⁠ ⁠‘More than a monument’: Pope Leo’s speech at the newly renovated Notre-Dame⁠ ⁠Pope Leo draws 800,000 to Mass in the heart of Paris⁠ ⁠Vatican Notebook: Pope Leo addresses French conversion boom, warns against complacency⁠ ⁠Pope speaks out against French assisted-dying and abortion laws in Lourdes visit⁠ ⁠Mother: Pope Leo’s blessing of special-needs daughter recognizes ‘segment of humanity often set aside’⁠ ⁠Pope Leo meets with survivors of abuse in Lourdes⁠ ⁠Pope Leo: Europe must return to path of dialogue, not military buildup⁠ ⁠Pope Leo is not ‘in panic mode’ about an A.I. catastrophe, but ‘we can’t just sit back’ and do nothing⁠ You can sign up for Colleen's 'Vatican Notebook' newsletter ⁠here⁠: ⁠https://www.americamagazine.org/sign-up-for-vatican-notebook-email-newsletter⁠ Follow Colleen on Instagram: ⁠@colleendulle⁠  Support the show by becoming a ⁠subscriber to America Magazine⁠! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the “Jesuitical” podcast, Ashley McKinless and Zac Davis speak with Rachel Lu about the beatification of Fulton Sheen, the American archbishop who was famous for his media evangelism in the mid-20th century. Rachel is a senior editor at Law and Liberty and a regular contributor to the National Review and America Magazine. Together they discuss Sheen’s charisma, cultural influence, and his lesser known political philosophy which defended both the public role of religion and the separation of church and state.   Chapters: Chapters: 00:00 Beatification of Fulton Sheen 01:23 When Fulton Sheen arrived on the scene 05:20 Sheen’s philosophical training 07:34 Fighting communism 11:22 What made Sheen’s TV show so popular? 13:51 What Sheen would think of America today? 26:09 The first celebrity bishop? 34:19 Introducing "Auguri!" 36:15 Faith sharing: Praying about using A.I. Links from the show: Fulton Sheen Bet on America. Some Catholics Want to Call It Off. Pope Leo calls Archbishop Fulton Sheen ‘a light of faith’ who touched millions with the Gospel Archbishop Fulton Sheen to be beatified Sept. 24 in St. Louis Sign up for our newsletter, Vatican Notebook! You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s episode of “Jesuitical,” Zac Davis and Sebastian Gomes speak with America’s President and Editor in Chief, Sam Sawyer, S.J. to discuss the impact that U.S. bishops are having on politics, AI, and more. Bishops are speaking out against war, mass deportations, the death penalty and racism, and their voices are breaking through. In this episode, Zac, Sebastian and Sam talk about why they’re having a moment, the influence of Pope Leo, and the opportunities for shaping the future of A.I. Chapters: 00:00 Growing influence of Bishops on US politics 04:35 Opposing mass deportation  10:30 Engaging with the Trump Administration 14:05 Bishops are finding new ways to talk about issues 18:00 The influence of Pope Leo 22:43 Where Bishops stand on A.I. 29:54 How U.S. Bishops can implement Magnifica humanitas 32:55 Opportunities around A.I. Links:  The U.S. bishops are speaking out forcefully on politics—and finally being heard Top US bishop writes letter to Trump urging end to mass deportations of Haitians Why are there so few African American bishops? ‘The short answer is racism’ says Bishop Boxie Bishop Olson on racism US bishops form new task force over AI concerns, meet with tech leaders Pope Francis to U.S. Catholic bishops: Oppose mass deportations Analysis: The U.S. bishops showed their unity on behalf of immigrants—and may have repaired their relationship to Rome Artificial Intelligence: United States Conference of Catholic Bishops  USCCB Positions on Artificial Intelligence Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Schisms don’t happen often in the Catholic Church. Which makes Pope Leo’s recent excommunication of the Society of Saint Pius X big news. This week on Jesuitical, hosts Zac and Ashley speak to Shaun Blanchard, Senior Lecturer in Theology at the University of Notre Dame Australia, about the history of the SSPX, their illicit decision to ordain new bishops, and what their excommunication means for more traditional groups within the Catholic Church. Chapters: 00:00 Why we're talking about the SSPX 01:42 Why the SSPX was excommunicated 04:55 Why Archbishop Lefebvre rejected Vatican II 9:38 Lefebvre's problem with religious liberty 14:20 Was this a debate over liturgy? 18:00 Ordaining bishops crosses a line 21:33 How 17th c. Jansenism illuminates the crisis 28:45 Restricting the traditional Latin Mass 35:05 How excommunication works 38:52 Implications for the traditional Latin Mass 47:16 There's no going back on Vatican II 49:48 Learning to appreciate Vatican II Links:  Vatican declares excommunicated SSPX bishops, warns priests and lay faithful of schism Analysis: SSPX excommunications show what Pope Leo means by church ‘unity’ After SSPX excommunications, traditionalist Catholics face a difficult choice 5 years after Pope Francis’ Latin Mass restrictions, traditionalist Catholics reflect on ‘Traditionis Custodes’ After SSPX schism, some Catholics urge greater access to the older Latin Mass Latin Mass, schism and cardinals in the media: The liturgy wars are back (and never really left) Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When President Trump took to Truth Social earlier this year and attacked Pope Leo for being “WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy,” most Catholics were understandably shocked. But a clash between a secular leader and the bishop of Rome is hardly without precedent. This week on “Jesuitical,” hosts Zac Davis and Ashley McKinless talk with Miles Pattendens, an expert on popes and papal conclaves, about the long and quirky history of feuds between popes and politicians. In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss the Vatican rejection of a request from the German bishops to allow lay people to preach the homily at Mass. Plus, a look ahead at Pope Leo’s summer plans.  And in As One Friends Speak to Another, America Media’s O’Hare fellows—Brigid McCabe, Ed Desciak and Will Gualitiere—share some spiritual insights from a year working at the intersection of the church and the world.  Jesuitical listener survey 00:00 Context 2:47 Vatican says "no" to women preaching 12:07 Pope Leo's summer schedule 16:05 History of Catholic authority 19:46 The investiture controversy 26:03 Pastoral concern or power grabs? 34:27 Henry VIII vs. Popes 39:20 How the church lost power 43:10 Moral authority on the global stage 52:00 Donald Trump's attacks on Pope Leo 1:00:10 Fill out our listener survey! https://forms.gle/yggZcBKeXYKbWYpM7 1:01:12 Faith sharing with our Fellows! Learn about America Magazine's Joseph A. O’Hare, S.J., Postgraduate Media Fellowship: https://www.americamagazine.org/ohare-fellows Jesuitical listener survey: https://forms.gle/yggZcBKeXYKbWYpM7 Links: Vatican to German bishops: No lay people preaching homilies at Mass Extraordinary consistory signals Pope Leo’s push to work with cardinals on global challenges Pope Leo speaks out on SSPX ordinations and U.S.-Iran deal Pope Leo to accept Liberty Medal and address Americans on July 3 Electing the Pope in Early Modern Italy, 1450-1700 Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Zac and Ashley sit down with Luke Burgis, the director of the Cluny Institute at The Catholic University of America and the author of The One and the Ninety-Nine: Forging Identity in the Age of Social Contagion. They discuss why we join and leave tribes, how to form a “solid” self and what healthy group identity looks like. In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss Vice President JD Vance’s new memoir on converting to Catholicism, the consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and new statutes for the Vatican’s commission for the protection of minors. Plus, Pope Leo wraps up his successful trip to Spain on the Canary Islands—but has some trouble getting off them. And in As One Friend Speaks to Another, Zac shares what he’s thinking about going into his very first Father’s Day. 0:00 Intro 3:30 J.D. Vance’s new book “Communion” 9:36 U.S. bishops meet for annual meeting in Orlando 19:44 Pope Leo finishes Spain trip 21:39 Papal plane trouble 24:25 Interview with Luke Burgis 25:52 The parable of the lost sheep 31:16 The age of social contagion 33:56 What Luke learned in seminary 38:05 Is your community good for you? 42:27 People respond to aesthetics 46:30 The importance of distance 48:46 The Catholic Church is unique as a community 57:20 What is the Cluny Institute? 1:02:25 What about AI? 1:05:24 Canonization 1:08:07 As One Friend Speaks to Another Links: The One and the Ninety-Nine: Forging Identity in the Age of Social Contagion Learn more about the Cluny Institute JD Vance writes about his journey to Catholicism in his new book, ‘Communion’ Consecration 101: What the bishops’ upcoming consecration of the US to the Sacred Heart means Pope Leo XIV approves new statutes for child protection commission Pope Leo ends visit to Spain with a call to repent What’s on tap? Sancerre You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical”, Ashley McKinless and Zac Davis talk to Dianne Bergant, C.S.A.,  who taught Scripture at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago for 44 years. She also served as America’s Word columnist from 2002 to 2005. During her time at CTU, Sr. Dianne had one very famous student, Robert Prevost—the future Pope Leo XIV. With Sr. Dianne, Zac and Ashley discuss what it’s like to be the teacher of a future pope and how approaches to teaching Scripture have evolved over time. During Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac unpack Pope Leo’s trip to Spain and a new Sagrada Familia Lego Set, and they talk sports with Catholic perspectives on the World Cup and NBA Finals—featuring some words from O’Hare Fellow Ed Desciak.  In “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Ashley shares an exciting announcement. Links from the show: Pope Leo defends the unborn and migrants in historic speech to Spanish parliament More than one million attend Pope Leo’s Mass and procession in the heart of Madrid Pope Leo meets Bad Bunny in Madrid In Spain, Pope Leo denounces polarization and hails commitment to multilateralism Lego announces new set designed after Spain’s Sagrada Família basilica Oligarchs can’t ruin the World Cup  Celebrating faith and FIFA: Italian-American community welcomes soccer legends Your Catholic Guide to the 2026 N.B.A. Finals: Spurs Sisters vs. Villanova Knicks You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Zac and Ashley speak with Mary Kate Polanin, the executive editor of The Good Newsroom, the digital news outlet of the Archdiocese of New York. They discuss the important and changing role of diocesan communications, Catholics in the digital space and New York’s new archbishop. In Signs of the Times, Zac and Ashley discuss Pope Leo’s surprising and historic choice to lead the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication and dig into the advice “Magnifica Humanitas” offers to each of us when it comes to navigating our relationship with A.I. Plus: Pope Leo heads to Spain on Saturday—and Bad Bunny is hoping they cross paths.  Links from the show: Pope Leo appoints president of EWTN News as head of Vatican communications America’s coverage of “Magnifica Humanitas” Bad Bunny wants to meet Pope Leo XIV. In Madrid, a crossover event is in the works. The Good Newsroom You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this bonus episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with two digital evangelization experts who helped create the Vatican’s study group report on the digital environment as part of the Synod on Synodality. Kim Daniels directs the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life at Georgetown University, and José Manuel de Urquidi runs the Evangelization Lab. Both were synod delegates, along with then-Cardinal Robert Prevost (the future Pope Leo XIV), at the global sessions of the synod in Rome in 2023 and 2024.  They discuss: 00:00 What are the Synod Study Groups? 7:10 How Pope Leo has shaped synodality 15:16 How influencers challenge church jurisdiction 28:30 Accompanying digital evangelizers 33:40 Converting to real communities Links: Study Group 3’s final report on the Digital Environment The Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life Evangelization Lab Coverage of Pope Leo’s encyclical “Magnifica Humanitas” You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Jesuitical: A feed drop of this week's special “Inside the Vatican” roundtable, a discussion of “Magnifica Humanitas,” Pope Leo’s groundbreaking first encyclical on protecting the human person in the age of artificial intelligence. Host Colleen Dulle sits down with her co-host and senior Vatican correspondent, Gerard O’Connell, as well as America’s president and editor in chief, Sam Sawyer, S.J. They discuss the document’s key takeaways, how it is being received in Silicon Valley, Pope Leo’s challenge for every Catholic in the A.I. age and much more.  Chapters: 0:00 Intro 1:11 Pope Leo present for the launch of his own encyclical 4:21 How the encyclical is being received by the tech community 8:43 Magnifica Humanitas on the growth of Catholic social teaching 13:16 Acknowledging the Church’s role in slavery 15:53 Exploring Pope Leo’s ecclesiology 22:30 Leo’s concrete recommendations for A.I. 32:30 How lay people can deal with A.I. 37:40 Outro Links: Read “Magnifica Humanitas” Pope Leo’s first encyclical tackles A.I., power and human dignity Pope Leo XIV makes historic apology for the Catholic Church’s role in legitimizing slavery Why Pope Leo’s new encyclical quotes Gandalf: Literary images of hope and faith in ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ A capitalist (priest) reads ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the “Jesuitical” podcast, Ashley McKinless and Zac Davis speak to theologian and legal scholar Cathleen Kaveny about why Catholics seem obsessed with questions of sexual morality. They were prompted to dig into the historical development of Catholic sexual ethics after Pope Leo said in a press conference, “We tend to think that when the church is talking about morality, that the only issue of morality is sexual. And in reality, I believe there are much greater, more important issues…” 00:00 Leo's comments on sexual morality 4:08 What Scripture says 6:05 How Catholic teaching developed 9:30 What is "natural law"? 16:37 How Catholics became obsessed with sex 20:26 JPII's "theology of the body" 24:41 Sex and justice 28:50 Sex, confession and salvation 36:35 A healthy approach to sex Links: Pope Leo speaks on same-sex blessings, migration and more on plane back to Rome Heaven and hell in post-Vatican II Catholicism: How to move from fear to love You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Jesuitical co-host Ashley McKinless and producer Sebastian Gomes speak to Michael W. Higgins about the spiritual master, Father Henri Nouwen (1932-1996). They explore Nouwen’s “wounded healer” approach to ministry, his brokenness and vulnerability, and his impact on contemporary Catholic thought. In “Signs of the Times,” Ashley and Zac discuss Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Pope Leo, plans for a border wall through a pilgrimage site, a cosmetics mogul turned Catholic priest, and when customer service hung up on Pope Leo. 00:00 Who is Henri Nouwen? 2:51 Pope Leo meets Marco Rubio 7:42 A border wall through a pilgrimage site? 10:40 A cosmetics mogul turned Catholic priest 12:39 Customer service hangs up on Pope Leo 15:40 You need to know Henri Nouwen 18:31 Henri Nouwen was an enigma 25:14 Nouwen's writings 31:23 How Nouwen understood priesthood 36:54 Intimacy, celibacy and homosexuality 41:17 Nouwen, the wounded healer 44:52 Good ministry isn't performative 48:39 How Nouwen prayed 58:00 Faith sharing: overcoming performative piety Links: Pope Leo XIV’s First Year Pope Leo meets with Marco Rubio amid Trump’s personal attacks Catholic diocese fights Trump administration plan to seize pilgrimage site for border wall Cosmetics millionaire turned seminarian, he’d give fortune ‘back a million times’ for Jesus Story of customer service agent hanging up on Leo shows pope’s ‘normal’ side "Genius Born of Anguish: The Life and Legacy of Henri Nouwen" 2026 Henri Nouwen Conference: "Longing for Home: The Prophetic Witness of Henri Nouwen in a Wounded World" Henri Nouwen Society Henri Nouwen: How to (actually) pray without ceasing The Monk and The Cripple by Henri Nouwen, 1980 Podcast Deep Dive: The first American pope—how it happened and what it means Performative piety: Why liturgy is not a space for self-expression Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesuitical’s co-host Zac Davis is joined by America's Vatican correspondent, Colleen Dulle, and executive editor Sebastian Gomes to assess the first year of Pope Leo XIV’s ministry as Bishop of Rome. They discuss Leo’s style, priorities and to what degree is continuing Pope Francis’ reforming agenda. 00:00 Pope Leo's first year 1:56 Can Pope Leo be claimed by the left or the right? 5:45 Is Pope Leo continuing Pope Francis' agenda? 13:30 Pope Leo's style 19:42 Women and sexuality 23:18 Is church unity the priority? 27:45 Pope Leo's appeals for peace Links: Pope Leo at year one: The progress of an American pope Pope Leo’s powerful lesson in vulnerable leadership Trump, Pope Leo, William F. Buckley and John XXIII: An overview of Popes and Politics in America Pope Leo remembers ‘the great gift’ of Pope Francis on the first anniversary of his death Pope Leo denounces those who use the name God for military gain You can follow us on ⁠X⁠ and on ⁠Instagram⁠ @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at ⁠facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.⁠  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at ⁠americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac talk to Laura Kelly Fanucci, author of Living Easter: 50 Days to Practice Resurrection. Together, they discuss the tendency among Christians to overlook the 50-day Easter season, as well as Laura’s personal experiences and struggles practicing resurrection. In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac speak with James Martin, S.J., editor at large for America, to unpack Pope Leo’s recent comments about blessings for same-sex couples and the church’s teaching on sexual morality. And in As One Friend Speaks to Another, Ashley shares her experience taking on a new role at America and the graces that it has brought her. 00:00 Is Easter harder than Lent? 2:05 German bishops to bless same-sex couples 6:00 How Pope Leo responded 9:20 Church unity and sexual morality 12:43 Is the church at an impasse? 15:20 Is the Easter season too long? 18:34 How to practice Easter-ing 26:29 Resurrection stories to learn from 30:57 Resurrecting Pentecost 34:52 Uniting suffering to Christ 41:13 Grief, scars and resurrection in Minneapolis 48:20 Faith sharing  Links Order Laura’s new book, Living Easter: 50 Days to Practice Resurrection Pope Leo speaks on same-sex blessings, migration and more on plane back to Rome Remarks on sexual ethics highlight Pope Leo’s pastoral priorities You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with Ryan Burge, author of the “Graphs about Religion” Substack and the new book, The Vanishing Church: How the Hollowing Out of Moderate Congregations Is Hurting Democracy, Faith, and Us. They discuss the polarization of U.S. Christianity and the supposed Gen-Z “religious revival.” In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss some highlights from Pope Leo’s trip to Africa; what Pope Leo called the not-exactly-accurate media narrative around him and President Trump; and the first anniversary of Pope Francis’ death. 00:00 A Gen-Z religious revival? 3:38 Highlights of Pope Leo's trip to Africa 10:05 VP Vance questions Pope Leo's theology 20:37 Remembering Pope Francis 22:50 Moderate Christianity is vanishing 25:49 U.S. religion is coded "conservative" 34:54 Catholic demographic trends 37:15 Political implications 40:53 Are young people going back to church? 48:18 Winner churches 52:56 Gen-Z religious trads 1:04:08 Faith Sharing: Pope Francis' humble tomb Links: ⁠Order Ryan’s book, The Vanishing Church⁠ ⁠Graphs about Religion⁠ ⁠Pope Leo walks in the footsteps of St. Augustine in Hippo⁠ ⁠Pope Leo denounces those who use the name God for military gain⁠ ⁠Pope Leo named one of Time magazine’s ‘100 Most Influential People of 2026’⁠ ⁠Pope Leo remembers ‘the great gift’ of Pope Francis on the first anniversary of his death⁠ You can follow us on ⁠X⁠ and on ⁠Instagram⁠ @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at ⁠facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.⁠  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at ⁠americamagazine.org/subscribe⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with John Carr, founder of Georgetown University’s Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life. In “Signs of the Times,” a cross-promotion of America’s roundtable discussion between Ashley, Sam Sawyer, S.J., the president and editor in chief, and Colleen Dulle, Vatican correspondent and co-host of “Inside the Vatican,” on President Trump’s unprecedented social media attack on Pope Leo XIV. 00:00 President Trump's words for Pope Leo 1:55 Pope Leo's criticism of war 3:14 Pope Leo's response to Trump 5:26 U.S. Bishops respond to Trump 6:22 Reactions to Trump's tirade 8:03 Did Trump influence Leo's election? 11:00 Don't take the President's bait 14:40 Impact on U.S.-Vatican relations 19:10 John Carr wanted to be a priest and a senator 21:25 Catholic teaching on mass deportations 30:32 Catholic social teaching is a long, reliable tradition 37:05 Is social justice redeemable? 47:10 How money influences Catholic priorities 50:13 First impressions of Pope Leo  Links for further reading:  John Carr: Lessons from 50 years at the intersection of Catholic social teaching and public life Reactions: President Trump lashes out at Pope Leo XIV Trump is trying to distract us from Pope Leo’s calls for peace. Don’t take the bait. Trump lambasts Pope Leo: ‘I’m not a fan.’ You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on a special crossover episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Colleen Dulle, host of the “Inside the Vatican” podcast, speak with Gerard O’Connell, America’s senior Vatican correspondent, and his wife Elisabetta Piqué about co-writing The Election of Pope Leo XIV: The Last Surprise of Pope Francis. In “Signs of the Times,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian break down Pope Leo’s first Holy Week and how it was shaped by the conflict between the United States and Iran. They also discuss astronaut Victor Glover, the pilot of the Artemis II mission, and his Easter message from space.  Finally, in “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Ashley and Sebastian talk about how the death and resurrection of Christ can help us understand and live through the extremes of this past week’s news—the threat of Iran’s total destruction and the new heights reached by humanity in space.  Links: The Election of Pope Leo XIV: The Last Surprise of Pope Francis, by Gerard O’Connell and Elisabetta Pique Excerpt: Behind the scenes of Pope Leo XIV’s election Pope Leo praises U.S.-Iran ceasefire as ‘sign of genuine hope,’ presses for peace Pope Leo: Trump’s threat to destroy Iran ‘truly unacceptable’ What photos from the Artemis II astronauts say to us in a time of war Artemis astronaut: Moon mission inspires wonder, prayer and unity You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting “Jesuitical” by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In March 2026, the Vatican’s doctrine office released its final report on women’s participation in the life and leadership of the Catholic Church. The report brings to a close the two-year work of Study Group 5, which, as part of the Synod on Synodality, was tasked with studying women’s ministries and leadership. In this special roundtable conversation, editors at America magazine discuss the report’s content and proposals, and ask if the document changes the status quo for women in the Catholic Church. Featuring: Ashley McKinless, executive editor and co-host of the “Jesuitical” podcast Kerry Weber, executive editor Colleen Dulle, Vatican correspondent and co-host of the “Inside the Vatican” podcast Molly Cahill, associate editor 0:00 The Vatican’s final report on women and ministry 4:23 Women’s reactions to the report 11:28 New ministries for women? 20:05 The horizons and limits of women’s authority 30:30 Will women be involved in decision-making? Links: ⁠The final synod report on women: what it says, what it means and what’s next⁠ ⁠Where the women deacons question stands at the Vatican⁠ ⁠Full Report of Study Group 5 on “The Participation of Women in the Life and Leadership of the Church⁠” Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at ⁠americamagazine.org/subscribe⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with Bishop Michael Martin, O.F.M. Conv., of the Diocese of Charlotte. Bishop Martin sparked headlines in 2025 when a document leaked with plans to restrict the Latin Mass and other liturgical practices in his diocese. Ashley, Zac and Bishop Martin discuss: - His pastoral priorities as bishop of Charlotte - Changes to the celebration of the Latin Mass in his diocese - How he approaches his outspoken critics within his community—and online In “Signs of the Times,” Ashley and Zac discuss the recent sexual abuse allegations against Cesar Chavez; Pope Leo’s call for bishops to come to Rome for a meeting on the family in October 2026; and a Belgian bishop who said he will “make every effort” to ordain married men as priests by the year 2028. Finally, in light of Easter coming up, Zac and Ashley talk about the pope’s favorite candy, Peeps! Finally, in “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Ashley talks about her experience inadvertently unplugging on a recent trip and the spiritual freedom found from it.  Links for further reading:  How the cover-up of Cesar Chavez’s abuse mirrored the clergy sex abuse crisis What you need to know about Pope Leo’s October meeting on marriage and family Belgian bishop says he will ‘make every effort’ to ordain married men by 2028 You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on a special episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley, Zac and Jesuitical producer Sebastian have a conversation with Dr. James Finley about first-half-of-life mysticism. Jim is a clinical psychologist and faculty member at the Center for Action and Contemplation where he teaches and writes on the Christian mystical tradition. He’s also the host of the podcast, ‘Turning to the Mystics.’ 0:00 A special episode on mysticism 3:00 How Jim Finley discovered monasteries 12:00 An introduction to interior prayer 22:48 Where to start 24:30 How to stay patient 28:40 When life gets busy 34:48 Cultivating silence in your life 39:50 Finding God in trauma 41:45 Trusting your own experiences of God 48:00 Is God really inside of us? 51:00 Where mysticism and formal religion intersect 56:15 Does mystical experience relativize religion? Links for further reading:  Jim’s podcast, “Turning to the Mystics with James Finley” The Center for Action and Contemplation Merton's Palace of Nowhere The Healing Path: A Memoir and an Invitation You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with Timothy Shriver, chairman of Special Olympics and founder of the nonprofit UNITE, which incubated the Dignity Index, a language evaluation tool that aims to bring greater dignity to our public discourse. 0:00 Welcome back Zac Davis! 2:35 A new papal nuncio to the U.S.A. 6:27 Cardinals respond to Iran war 9:04 Synod report on women released 10:27 Tim Shriver's holy family 13:04 What is the dignity index? 18:57 Contempt is the problem 24:00 What's your dignity score? 30:52 What dignity really means 38:20 Responding to contempt with dignity 46:00 How to do it 51:48 Is the Catholic Church a model? 54:32 Influence of Pope Leo XIV 58:50 Updates and faith sharing  Links for further reading:  Pope Leo appoints Archbishop Caccia as nuncio to the United States Iran’s Cardinal Mathieu evacuated to Rome Pope Leo expresses ‘deep sorrow’ for Lebanese Maronite Catholic priest killed by Israeli tank fire Final synod report on women’s leadership does not address female diaconate The Dignity Index Need a Lift? With Tim Shriver You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting “Jesuitical” by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley sits down with America’s chief correspondent, Kevin Clarke, to discuss the widening conflict with Iran and whether the U.S. intervention in the conflict can be justified under just war theory. Then, we re-share one of our favorite interviews from last year: a conversation with Jamie Baxter, the founder & C.E.O. of Exodus 90. The program, which helps men to strengthen their faith through prayer, asceticism and fraternity, faced some early skepticism from some in the church—and the “Jesuitical” team—that gave way to greater understanding and valuable innovation.   Links for further reading:  Against Unjust and Unjustified War with Iran I regret supporting the Iraq War. We shouldn’t repeat our mistakes in Iran now. Cardinal Parolin on Iran war: ‘The force of law has been replaced by the law of force’ Lebanese archbishop: Innocents are ‘paying the price’ of Middle East war Pope Leo urges a halt to ‘spiral of violence’ across Iran and Middle East Sorrow, shock for Catholics in Middle East as US and Israel strike Iran amid negotiations You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting “Jesuitical” by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on a special, interview-only episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian talk with James Martin, S.J., editor at large for America, about his new memoir Work in Progress: Confessions of a busboy, dishwasher, caddy, usher, factory worker, bank teller, corporate tool, and priest.  Ashley, Sebastian and Father Jim discuss: The differences in writing an autobiography vs. a book on prayer Balancing ambition and meaning Jim’s eventual decision to choose a life and career in the Jesuits  Links for further reading:  Buy Father Jim’s book here Father James Martin: Lessons from mowing lawns, riding bikes and a fateful walk to school Check out the book’s Spotify playlist here You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Timecodes 0:00 Jim Martin has a new book: “Work in Progress” 2:13 Why Jim decided to write an autobiography on his jobs 8:19 The importance of menial labor and service  11:45 Getting free of our desire to be liked and popular 16:36 How Jim learned to distinguish ambition v. meaning 21:14 The impact of Thomas Merton on Jim’s spiritual life 25:30 Jim’s first mystical experience in the beauty of nature 35:36 Called to the Jesuits 42:15 Jim would canonize Fr. Greg Boyle, S.J. Support Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian sit down with Kristen Gilger, author of My Son, The Priest: A Mother’s Crisis of Faith and her son, Patrick Gilger, S.J., to discuss their interwoven journeys of faith. 0:00 Critiquing our ashes 3:00 Pope Leo's first Ash Wednesday 4:35 Vatican won't join "Board of Peace" 5:50 St. Peter's has a new snack bar! 8:10 Kristin's shock when Paddy joined the Jesuits 16:58 The challenges of poverty, chastity and obedience 22:00 Giving up marriage and a family 34:45 Cafeteria Catholicism 38:35 Reconciliation without agreement 45:10 Being open to change 50:22 Catholicism's lingering appeal 1:04:25 Faith sharing: love your enemies  Links for further reading:  My son became a priest. I still felt conflicted about God and religion. Buy Kristen’s Book: My Son, The Priest: A Mother’s Crisis of Faith Pope Leo on Ash Wednesday: It’s ‘rare to find adults who repent’ Vatican will not join Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’ for Gaza, Cardinal Parolin says Vatican expands visitor experience at St. Peter’s Basilica to mark 400th anniversary You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on a pre-Mardi Gras episode “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian speak with Dr. Ansel Augustine. Ansel is the assistant director for African American affairs for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the author of Praying with Our Feet: Encountering God in the Margins. They discuss the harrowing and sacred culture of the Black Masking Indians of Mardi Gras. 0:00 Mardi Gras! 4:00 New York City has a new bishop 10:17 Archbishop Fulton Sheen to be beatified 11:44 Catholic leaders respond to racist post 13:50 Villanova and Notre Dame bball in Rome! 15:14 History of Black masking culture 21:24 African Americans made Catholicism their own 24:02 Mardi Gras as sacred ritual 27:00 Tribal competition 29:10 Black and Indian cultural encounter 31:30 Hurricane Katrina is an open wound 34:04 The art of feasting 37:32 Diversity ministry is a challenge 45:24 Lenten resources and practices for 2026! Links for further reading:  CRS Rice Bowl Website Development and Peace – Caritas Canada Solidarity Calendar 2026  101 Things To Give Up For Lent On Mardi Gras, Catholics should celebrate the faith and resilience of the New Orleans Black Masking Indians You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bishop Kevin Kenney was born in Minneapolis and has ministered to Latino communities there for years. Now an auxiliary bishop in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, he speaks to America about the realities facing Latino Catholics on the ground and what the Catholic Church is doing to support them. 0:00 ICE outside churches and schools 4:45 How the Catholic Church is responding 10:00 Targeting criminals only? 11:45 Preaching during the crisis 15:12 Ministering to ICE 16:45 Latinos have enriched Minneapolis 18:53 Longterm effects 23:45 Pope Leo and prioritizing immigration 34:00 What Bishop Kenney is praying for Links for further reading:  ⁠Twin Cities pastors preach on the killing of Alex Pretti: ‘We are walking in darkness and living in fear’ ⁠ ⁠I’m a Minnesota Catholic mom. Here’s what my neighbors are saying about ICE⁠ ⁠No more funding for ICE without reform. Congress must act⁠ ⁠Bishop Tyson: Not all are called to be martyrs like Alex Pretti. But we can be witnesses⁠ Minnesota Catholic Relief Fund Support Jesuitical by ⁠becoming ⁠a subscriber to America Magazine⁠⁠! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian sit down with Patrick Kelly, S.J. Father Pat holds the Heider Chair at Creighton University and is an expert in the theology of Sports. Then, in a special faith sharing segment, the hosts speak with Patrick Hyde, O.P., a Dominican priest and the pastor of St. Paul Catholic Center at Indiana University, about recent Heisman Trophy winner, Fernando Mendoza. Fernando, the quarterback of the IU football team, has been outspoken about his Catholic faith and is a frequent attendee of masses at St. Paul Center. 0:00 Olympics or Super Bowl? 5:40 Sports and the Vatican 9:02 Playing sports vs. the spiritual life 14:50 Why athletes praise God 20:20 Sports and superstition 32:30 Sports, society and polarization 39:31 Being Catholic at Indiana U 45:00 Ministering to Fernando Mendoza 52:12 Healthy (and unhealthy) fandom  Links for further reading:  Father Pat’s book, “Play, Sport and Spirit” These Olympic athletes are leaning on Christian faith going into the Winter Games Pope Leo adds feast day of St. John Henry Newman to universal calendar Pope Leo, Archbishop Coakley urge renewal of last US-Russia nuclear treaty You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical. Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on a special episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Sam Sawyer, S.J., president and editor in chief of America, have a conversation with David French, political commentator and opinion columnist at The New York Times, about the complex relationship between Christianity and politics during the Trump administration.  Ashley, Father Sawyer and David discuss: - David’s journey as a never-Trump evangelical Christian - The future identity of Christianity in the United States - How Christians should respond to events like the killings in Minneapolis  Links for further reading:  A Christian Answer to Trump and Trumpism Is Finally Here Trump Is No Longer the Most Important American David’s Podcast: “Advisory Opinions” Twin Cities pastors preach on the killing of Alex Pretti: ‘We are walking in darkness and living in fear’ You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian speak to Charles Camosy. Charlie teaches moral theology and bioethics at the Catholic University of America and is the author of 10 books, including Living and Dying Well: A Catholic Plan for Resisting Physician-Assisted Killing. Ashley, Sebastian and Charlie discuss: - How opposition to euthanasia transcends typical partisan camps - The disability advocates on the frontlines in the fight against euthanasia - The importance of learning to live well in order to die well In Signs of the Times, Charlie speaks to the pro-life movement’s response to the second Trump administration and the March for Life in Washington, D.C.  If you are having thoughts of suicide, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can find more resources from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention here. Links for further reading:  Order Charlie’s book: Living and Dying Well: A Catholic Plan for Resisting Physician-Assisted Killing Ahead of March for Life, pro-life movement faces key political challenges Pro-life groups push back after Trump tells House GOP to be ‘flexible’ on taxpayer-funded abortions Canada’s euthanasia regime: How many more will die in the name of ‘compassion’? Vatican reaffirms, clarifies church teachings on end-of-life care You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian speak with Vatican expert Thomas Reese, S.J., a Jesuit priest who is a senior analyst at Religion News Service and former editor in chief of America magazine.  Ashley, Sebastian and Father Reese discuss: - The big takeaways from Pope Leo’s first consistory - 101 on the recent history of the College of Cardinals  - Whether Leo is continuing on the synodal path set by Pope Francis In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Sebastian discuss Catholic reactions from Minnesota a week after the shooting death of Renee Good by an ICE officer. They also unpack the Vatican’s diplomatic involvement in Venezuela and the meeting between the new U.S.C.C.B. president, Archbishop Paul Coakley, and President Trump at the White House. Finally, the hosts explain the history and significance of Pope Leo’s new papal staff.  Links for further reading:  - Read more from Father Reese at RNS - Pope Leo says he will hold consistories with the College of Cardinals every year - Pope Leo XIV’s papacy began today - Pope Leo meets with Venezuelan opposition leader Machado - Trump meets with US bishops’ president at White House - Baptizing the lie about ICE and the killing of Renee Nicole Good - Leo’s new papal staff highlights Christ’s victory over death You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian sit down with Eric Sundrup, S.J., a Jesuit priest who is the vice president for mission and ministry and university chaplain at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. Father Eric has also worked on “Jesuitical” since its inception (in 2017!) in a variety of roles; today, he continues to provide faith formation for the team.  Ashley, Sebastian and Father Eric discuss: - What spiritual practices “worked” for them in 2025—and what they want to leave behind - How to approach Mass with fresh eyes and ears in the new year - Why you shouldn’t beat yourself up about not meeting your prayer goals In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Sebastian discuss the conclusion of the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope and the next phase of Pope Leo’s pontificate. They unpack Catholic reactions to the capture of Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro and his wife by U.S. forces and the recent news of Israel banning 37 humanitarian groups, including a Catholic aid group, from operating in Gaza. Finally, Sebastian and Ashley talk about supposed divine intervention on the football field during last weekend’s Pittsburgh Steelers-Baltimore Ravens game.  Links for further reading:  - Pope Leo says he will hold consistories with the College of Cardinals every year - Pope Leo XIV closes 2025 Holy Year with critique of consumerism and xenophobia - Pope Leo XIV’s papacy began today - Pope Leo’s first Extraordinary Consistory: What should we expect? - Venezuela, Trump and the end of ‘Pax Americana’ - Inside Venezuela’s capital after Trump administration captures Maduro - Pope Leo: ‘The good of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail over every other consideration.’ You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical. Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who’s the best TV priest? Should you name your kid after a saint? And what pilgrimage sites are on our bucket list? These are just a few of the questions Zac, Ashley and “Jesuitical” producer Sebastian Gomes tackle in our end-of-year mailbag episode! Thanks to all the listeners who sent in questions for the hosts—we love hearing what’s on your minds. So don’t hesitate to reach out to jesuitical@americamedia.org or on our Facebook page to let us know what you’d like us to discuss on the show.  Merry Christmas, and we’ll see you in 2026! What’s on tap? Syrah from the Northern Rhone Valley You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak to Noah Banasiewicz, S.J. Noah is a Jesuit scholastic and lecturer in the School of Communication at Loyola University Chicago. Ashley, Zac and Noah talk about: - The opportunities and pitfalls of evangelizing on social media - The fine line between evangelist and Catholic influencer - How media theory can help us understand the evolution of evangelization In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss the controversial ICE nativity scene at St. Susanna Catholic Church in Dedham, Mass., and Pope Leo’s comments on Ukraine and the Trump administration. They also break down the new Vatican document on ordaining women to the diaconate.  In parish announcements, Zac and Ashley announce that they will be filming a mailbag episode and call for questions from the audience. If you have a question for the “Jesuitical” team, please send your questions to jesuitical@americamedia.org by Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025. In As One Friend Speaks to Another, Ashley and Zac discuss their thoughts on Pope Leo’s explanation for not praying at the Blue Mosque in Turkey.  Links for further reading:  Noah’s article in America, “Catholic influencers have a media theory (and evangelization) problem” Boston archdiocese tells church to remove ICE message from Nativity, but pastor refuses for now Pope Leo explains why he appeared not to pray at the Blue Mosque in Turkey Vatican report says no to ordaining women deacons—for now Women Deacons and the Catholic Church | An Explainer video from America You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Ashley and Zac debrief Pope Leo XIV's first international trip to Turkey and Lebanon, where he preached a strong message of peace and Christian unity, and shared insights from the conclave that elected him. Then, they speak to their colleague and America's senior audio producer, Maggi Van Dorn, about the new season of her podcast, "Hark! The Stories Behind Our Favorite Christmas Carols." They reflect on Maggi's reporting trip to Coventry, England, a place of historic violence and home of the haunting Christmas hymn, "The Coventry Carol". Links: Pope Leo and Patriarch Bartholomew urge Christian unity at Nicaea commemoration In Turkey, Pope Leo pushes for unity and peace—within and beyond Christianity Pope Leo makes a strong pitch for peace in war-threatened Lebanon Pope Leo meets survivors of Beirut port explosion and calls for peace as he concludes Lebanon visit Pope Leo on what he was thinking inside the conclave Listen to “Hark! The Stories Behind Our Favorite Christmas Carols” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and at AmericaMagazine.org/Hark You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at AmericaMagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac chat with Daniel Corrou, S.J. Father Corrou is a Jesuit priest from the USA East Province who is currently the regional director of Jesuit Refugee Service Middle East & North Africa. Father Corrou lives and works in Lebanon, where Pope Leo XIV will visit from November 30 to December 2, 2025. Ashley, Zac and Father Corrou talk about: - The significance of Pope Leo choosing Lebanon for one of his first papal visits - Lebanon’s complex socio-political and religious context - How the region has been affected by U.S. foreign aid cuts In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss the biggest news to come out of the U.S.C.C.B. fall meeting, held last week in Baltimore: the election of a new president and a “special message” on immigration. In As One Friend Speaks to Another, Ashley and Zac try to find God in a board meeting. Links for further reading:  - Support Father Corrou’s work at the Jesuit Refugee Service - Analysis: The U.S. bishops showed their unity on behalf of immigrants—and may have repaired their relationship to Rome - U.S. bishops release rare message on Trump’s immigration crackdown in show of ‘fundamental unity - New USCCB president Coakley talks immigration, Viganò criticism and Pope Leo - Archbishop Coakley, Bishop Flores elected president and vice president of USCCB - Pope Leo backs U.S. bishops in opposing Trump’s immigration crackdown You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on an interview-only episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with Sister Theresa Aletheia and Sister Danielle Victoria, founding members of the Sisters of the Little Way, a private association of the faithful intending to become a religious institute, who live a mission of listening and solidarity with people who have been hurt by the church. Ashley, Zac and the sisters talk about: - The ins and outs of starting a religious order - The important and complicated mission of helping abuse survivors - Crises of faith from abuse and how to overcome them  Links for further reading:  Sisters of the Little Way website Descent Into Light Podcast You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac chat with Chris Cimorelli. Chris is the director of the National Institute for Newman Studies and the editor of the Newman Studies Journal, and an expert on St. John Henry Cardinal Newman, the newest doctor of the church. Ashley, Zac and Chris talk about: - Newman’s journey from Anglicanism to the Church of Rome - Newman’s many (and lasting) contributions to Catholic thought - Why Catholics of every theological stripe love Newman In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss Pope Leo’s recent comments on the importance of providing pastoral care to migrants being held in detention centers throughout the United States. They also look at Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia basilica becoming the world’s tallest church last week. Finally, they unpack the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith’s new document on the proper titles for the Virgin Mary.  In As One Friend Speaks to Another, Ashley and Zac speak to Simcha Fischer about her recent article for America: “JD Vance’s immigration comments are an insult to our Catholic faith.” Links for further reading:  National Institute for Newman Studies Pope Leo’s homily declaring St. John Henry Newman a doctor of the church St. John Henry Newman’s unique approach to conscience Pope Leo declares St. John Henry Newman a doctor of the church and co-patron of Catholic education National Institute for Newman Studies Pope Leo says ICE should allow ‘pastoral workers’ to bring detained migrants Communion Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia becomes the world’s tallest church Vatican officially says no to controversial titles for Mary: ‘Co-redemptrix’ and ‘Mediatrix of all Graces’ JD Vance’s immigration comments are an insult to our Catholic faith You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on a special Halloween episode of “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with Micah Kiel, a professor of New Testament at Saint John’s School of Theology and Seminary in Collegeville, Minn., where he teaches a class called “Apocalypse-mania.” Micah is also the author of Apocalyptic Ecology: The Book of Revelation, the Earth, and the Future.  Ashley, Zac and Micah discuss: - How Catholics should read the Book of Revelation - Where our obsession with the apocalypse comes from - Revelation’s (violent) critique of empire In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss King Charles’s monumental visit to the Vatican, Cardinal Burke saying the Latin liturgy in St. Peter’s Basilica and Pete Hegseth’s decision to retain awards for soldiers who massacred hundreds of Indigenous civilians at Wounded Knee in the late 19th century. In “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Ashley and Zac speak to Jackson Goodman, strategic program manager at America, about his and Zac’s upcoming participation in the New York City Marathon. Links for further reading:  Pope Leo and King Charles make history with first-ever joint prayer service in Sistine Chapel Cardinal Burke celebrates traditional Latin Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica Analysis: Why is Pope Leo letting Cardinal Burke say the Latin Mass at the Vatican? Bishop, Jesuits reject Hegseth decision to honor soldiers who massacred Lakota at Wounded Knee Support Cristo Rey New York High School You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac talk to Brendan Curran, O.P., a Dominican priest who leads interfaith partnerships at the Resurrection Project and serves on the International Dominican Commission for Justice and Peace. Links for further reading:  The International Dominican Commission for Justice and Peace website The Resurrection Project website Chicago Catholics confront ICE, fear and protests to protect migrants’ dignity, religious rights 1,200-year-old loaf of bread with image of Christ unearthed in astonishing find After altar wine becomes popular in bars, Kenya's Catholic bishops order proprietary brand Archbishop Broglio: Army’s cancellation of religious support contracts harms Catholics U.S. Army says religious support contracts to be ‘reexamined’ after Archbishop Broglio objects to their cancellation You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac sit down with Colleen Dulle, America’s Vatican correspondent and host of the “Inside the Vatican” podcast, to speak about her new book, Struck Down, Not Destroyed: Keeping the Faith as a Vatican Reporter.  Ashley, Zac and Colleen discuss: - The spirituality of a Vatican reporter covering church scandals - Colleen’s experience attending—and leaving—the Latin Mass - Being present at Mass as a “professional Catholic” In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss Catholic reactions to the monumental Gaza ceasefire and the denial of religious leaders’ request to deliver Communion to detainees at the Broadview, Ill., ICE facility.  They also look at Pope Leo’s first major document, “Dilexi Te,” and the newest member of the Castel Gandolfo community: Proton, the pope’s new horse. In “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Zac talks about his relationship with Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt in the wake of her passing, as well as her years of pastoral work at Loyola Chicago. Links for further reading:  Buy Colleen’s book “Struck Down, Not Destroyed: Keeping the Faith as a Vatican Reporter” Amid historic deal, Gaza pastor says little is left after ‘tsunami’ of destruction Pope Leo pleads for a just peace as cease-fire in Gaza holds Eucharistic procession turned back by feds at Broadview ICE detention facility Roundtable: Pope Francis began ‘Dilexi Te.’ Pope Leo completed it. Pope Leo signs first exhortation, ‘Dilexi te,’ focused on love for the poor Pope Leo in first major document: Love for the poor is not optional for Christians Top 5 takeaways from Pope Leo’s first major document, ‘Dilexi Te’ Pope Leo ‘very happy’ to be gifted a horse from prestigious Polish stable Sister Jean’s legacy: A life of faith, service and basketball Sister Jean on Jesuitical What you don’t know about Loyola’s Sister Jean How Loyola Chicago’s Sister Jean prays—on and off the court You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with Kate Williams, the vice president of sacred music at GIA Publications, publisher of the “Gather” and “Worship” hymnals.  Ashley, Zac and Kate discuss: - Why Catholics don’t sing at Mass - How the role of music in liturgy changed post-Vatican II - Why the slightest changes in language make all the difference when it comes to hymns In a brief “Signs of the Times,” Ashley points to America’s coverage of Pope Leo’s first major document, “Dilexi Te,” and calls for audience comments and questions. Links for further reading:  Latin chant or folk music at Mass? A debate on what makes liturgy ‘reverent’ The new Gather hymnal is just good enough — and that’s perfect What makes for good liturgical music? St. Thomas Aquinas has 3 criteria for what works at Mass. Pope Leo in first major document: Love for the poor is not optional for Christians Read “Dilexi Te” You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac speak with Sam Sawyer, S.J., president and editor in chief of America Magazine, to discuss the recent controversy surrounding Cardinal Blase Cupich’s decision to present Senator Dick Durbin with a “lifetime achievement award” for his work in defense of migrants. Ashley, Zac and Sam discuss: - Senator Durbin’s decision to decline the award in the face of mounting controversy - How the “consistent ethic of life” should shape Catholic political engagement - Pope Leo’s surprising, yet pragmatic, response to the situation In “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Zac and Ashley sit down with Jim Martin, S.J., and Joe Hoover, S.J., to talk about the late Robert Redford’s Oscar-winning film, “Ordinary People.” Links for further reading:  - Sen. Durbin declines lifetime achievement award after backlash for pro-choice position - Pope Leo weighs in on controversy over Cardinal Cupich giving Sen. Durbin immigration award - Chicago archdiocese’s plan to award Senator Durbin for immigration work meets pushback over abortion - Remembering Robert Redford and ‘Ordinary People,’ his devastating, nearly perfect film You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and Zac sit down with Dean Detloff, a research and advocacy officer at Development and Peace – Caritas Canada, to talk about the importance of foreign debt relief in the Jubilee Year. Ashley, Zac and Dean discuss: - The biblical roots of forgiving debts in a jubilee year - How foreign debt stunts the development of poor nations - Why framing matters when it comes to debt forgiveness versus relief and justice In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Zac discuss Charlie Kirk’s memorial service, including the stark juxtaposition of Erika Kirk’s and President Trump’s messages. They also talk about the recent execution of Father Mathew Eya in Nigeria, where 7,000 Christians have been killed so far this year.  Zac and Ashley also react to the recent escape attempt by three elderly Austrian nuns and the retirement of Loyola Chicago’s Sister Jean. In “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Zac catches Ashley up on what he’s been up to and the perspective of being a new father. Links for further reading:  Dean’s writing for America Caritas Canada’s Jubilee Debt Campaign Jubilee People’s Forum at the G7 in Kananaskis, Alberta Peruvian Cardinal speaks at People’s Forum in Alberta Pope Francis lifts suspension imposed on Nicaragua’s Ernesto Cardenal Charlie Kirk’s widow says she forgives husband’s alleged killer at memorial attended by Trump, Vance Who is being served by making Charlie Kirk a saint: God or Caesar? ‘Nuns on the run’ in Austria offer a complex picture of aging in religious life You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley sits down with Sam Sawyer, S.J., president and editor in chief of America Media, and J.D. Long-Garcia, senior editor for America to respond to the murder of Charlie Kirk. Ashley, Fr. Sawyer and J.D. discuss: - Why this is a difficult (but necessary) conversation - Why people rush to say, "This is terrible, but..." - Significance of the murder in national political life In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Sebastian discussed some more of the reactions in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s death from prominent Catholics on both sides of the political aisle, including Pope Leo’s prayers for Kirk and his family.  They also discuss the recent “Grace for the World” concert in St. Peter’s Square and how Pope Leo celebrated his 70th birthday.  Links for further reading:  - Sam’s article: The aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination: If we have to look at violence, let’s do it the right way. - Bishops and Catholic leaders call for prayer after conservative activist Charlie Kirk shot and killed - Charlie Kirk, free speech and the danger of politics without God - Pope Leo said he is praying for Charlie Kirk and his family - How Pope Leo plans to govern the church: From Rome to China to Gaza - Pope Leo calls out billionaires and income inequality in first interview You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian sit down with Jack Bentz, S.J., a Jesuit priest and the host of the “Catholics in Ordinary Time” podcast and Substack. Father Jack also works in campus ministry at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. Ashley, Sebastian and Father Jack discuss: - What kids are looking for in campus ministry and parish settings - Surprise lessons from a Jordan Peterson talk - The ways parishes can get people coming back to Mass In Signs of the Times, Ashley and Sebastian discuss the recent canonizations of Saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, the “Grace for the World” concert being hosted at the Vatican with notable A-listers and Pope Leo’s upcoming 70th birthday. In a new expanded version of our faith sharing segment, “As One Friend Speaks to Another,” Jack Consolie, Outreach’s communications and development associate, discusses his recent article: “Carlo Acutis and I: The (complicated) spiritual connection of a shared cancer journey.” Our faith sharing segment is a project funded by a grant from Lilly Endowment, Inc.  Links for further reading: - Fr. Jack’s podcast: Catholics in Ordinary Time - Fr. Jack’s Substack - Jack Consolie’s article: “Carlo Acutis and I: The (complicated) spiritual connection of a shared cancer journey” - Pope Leo XIV declares Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati saints in a celebration of youthful devotion - On the ground for the canonization of Saints Acutis and Frassati: Crowds, communion and Cheez-Its You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on “Jesuitical,” Ashley and guest host Sebastian unpack the trend of “hot priests” on social media with Maggie Phillips, a contributing writer for Tablet Magazine. Maggie recently published an article exploring the phenomenon of the “hot priest”: Thou Shalt Not Scroll Past a Hot Priest. Ashley, Sebastian and Maggie discuss:  - What the “hot priest” trend says about the cultural status of the Catholic Church  - Is there a benefit to being recognizably religious? - The dangers of conflating social media engagement and evangelization In Signs of the Times, Colleen Dulle, America’s Vatican correspondent and host of “Inside the Vatican,” sits down with Ashley and Sebastian to discuss Pope Leo’s response to the tragic shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis as well as his recent meeting with Father James Martin. They also take a look back at his summer activities and discuss what Leo’s talkative brother, John Prevost, has revealed about our new pope. In a new expanded version of our “As One Friend Speaks to Another” segment, Emma Camp, an assistant editor at Reason magazine, discusses her Faith in Focus article “The case for showing up to church—even if you don’t believe in God.” Links for further reading:  “Thou Shalt Not Scroll Past a Hot Priest” Maggie’s article in America: "Lay volunteers are often the backbone of Catholic parishes. But they need support, too" Emma’s article: “The case for showing up to church—even if you don’t believe in God” “Pope Leo calls for stop to ‘the pandemic of arms’ after Minnesota Catholic school shooting” “Pope Leo’s response to the Minneapolis Catholic school shooting: 3 takeaways” “Father James Martin: Pope Leo wants to continue Francis’ approach to LGBTQ Catholics” “Pope Leo just extended his vacation. What do popes do to relax?” “14 Things We Learned About Pope Leo From His Brother’s Latest Interview” What’s on tap? Aperol Spritz You can follow us on X and on Instagram @jesuiticalshow.   You can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/groups/jesuitical.  Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at https://www.americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this last "best of" episode of summer 2025, Zac and Ashley resurrect an interview with the always entertaining Father Dave Dwyer, the executive director of Busted Halo, a media outreach of the Paulist Fathers, and the author of the book “Mass Class: Your Questions Answered.” Is there a question you have about the Catholic Mass that you’ve always been too embarrassed to ask? Like: When we say, “Only say the word and my soul shall be healed,”...what’s “the word”? Well, you’re in luck. Press "play." Mass Class: Your Questions Answered, by Father Dave Dwyer What’s on tap? Pick your poison: Negroni You can follow us on ⁠X⁠ and on ⁠Instagram:⁠ @jesuiticalshow You can find us on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/groups/jesuitical⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a ⁠⁠digital subscriber⁠⁠ to America magazine at⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Jesuitical is bringing back a poignant yet hopeful conversation with Sister Donna Dodge, the president of the Sisters of Charity of New York, which recently decided to embark on a “path to completion.” That means the over 200-year-old congregation will no longer accept new vocations (though their ministry continues). We discuss: - How religious life has changed since Sister Donna joined in 1966 - How the sisters discerned that it was time to let go—and how their charism of charity will live on in the work of lay collaborators - Why the church needs to change the way it talks about “vocation” with young people You can follow us on ⁠X⁠ and on ⁠Instagram:⁠ @jesuiticalshow You can find us on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/groups/jesuitical⁠⁠⁠ Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a ⁠digital subscriber⁠ to America magazine at⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pope Francis' 2021 decree, Traditionis custodes, which limited the celebration of the Traditional Latin Mass, set off a heated and at times toxic debate between more traditionalist Catholics and those who want to see the reforms of the Second Vatican Council more fully implemented. Is there a way for us to talk about the liturgy without it turning into a war? On this "best of" episode, we're revisiting a conversation with Rev. Pierre Amar, a priest in the Diocese of Versailles in France. Father Amar grew up attending the Latin Mass and was ordained into the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter, an order dedicated to the celebration of the pre-Vatican II Mass rite. But he also loves and celebrates the novus ordo or ordinary form, and does not think the two forms of the liturgy need to be in conflict. You can follow us on ⁠X⁠ and on ⁠Instagram:⁠ @jesuiticalshow You can find us on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/groups/jesuitical⁠⁠ Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at⁠⁠ ⁠⁠americamagazine.org/subscribe⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Forget what you think you know about Saint Augustine. Maybe you only know the cities that take his name, or you had a tough experience in your introduction to philosophy class and found him medieval (in the pejorative sense) and scrupulous. But what if Augustine was actually the first to hone in on and clearly express our human desire for authenticity, that restlessness that all of us have felt at one point in our lives? What if, “Augustine might make Christianity believable for you even if you’ve heard it all, been there, done that, and left the stupid Christian t-shirt at home.” On this "best of" Jesuitical episode, James K.A. Smith talks about his book “On the Road with St. Augustine: A Real World Spirituality for Restless Hearts.” Read Smith's article on the election of Pope Leo XIV: "What to expect from an Augustinian pope": https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2025/05/12/smith-augustinian-pope-leo-250662 On the Road with Saint Augustine: A Real-World Spirituality for Restless Hearts by James K. A. Smith You can follow us on ⁠X⁠ and on ⁠Instagram:⁠ @jesuiticalshow You can find us on Facebook at ⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/groups/jesuitical⁠⁠ Please consider supporting Jesuitical by becoming a digital subscriber to America magazine at⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.americamagazine.org/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices