Still Catholic

"Still Catholic" is a captivating podcast that dives deep into the heart of Catholicism, offering a refreshing and candid space for real conversations that aren't afraid to veer off the beaten path. Each episode features engaging discussions with Fr. Chris Pietraszko, Dorothy deBakker and John Van Heck, tackling topics from theology and spirituality to contemporary issues facing the Catholic community. With hosts who balance humour and sincerity, "Still Catholic" encourages listeners to explore their faith in a way that honours tradition while embracing the unpredictability of life's journey. Whether you're a lifelong Catholic or simply curious about the faith, this podcast provides a welcoming platform for thought-provoking dialogue that challenges, inspires, and, at times, surprises.

1. Intro: What's This Podcast All About Anyway?

Indeed, confession, also known as the Sacrament of Reconciliation, holds a significant place in the Catholic faith as it provides us with the opportunity to seek forgiveness for our sins and reconcile with God. This sacrament is rooted in the knowledge that God's grace is infinite, and through confession, we can experience spiritual healing and renewal. However, the process of confessing one's sins can be intimidating for many, as it requires vulnerability and honesty. To alleviate these fears, it is helpful to remember that the priest, acting in the person of Christ, offers guidance and absolution, not condemnation. The sacrament is a moment of profound mercy and love, emphasizing God's readiness to forgive and embrace the penitent, creating a path back to spiritual peace and community with the Church.

"Still Catholic" is a podcast that dives deep into the heart of Catholicism, offering a refreshing and candid space for real conversations that aren't afraid to veer off the beaten path. Each episode features engaging discussions with Fr. Chris Pietraszko, Dorothy deBakker and John Van Heck, tackling topics from theology and spirituality to contemporary issues facing the Catholic community. With hosts who balance humour and sincerity, "Still Catholic" encourages listeners to explore their faith in a way that honours tradition while embracing the unpredictability of life's journey. Whether you're a lifelong Catholic or simply curious about the faith, this podcast provides a welcoming platform for thought-provoking dialogue that challenges, inspires, and, at times, surprises.

2. Confession

The third episode of "Still Catholic" dives into the profound significance and spiritual depth of this central sacrament in Catholic tradition; the Eucharist. It explores the Eucharist as more than a mere ritual, but as the true presence of Christ, embodying the mystery of faith where bread and wine become the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Hosts Fr. Chris, Dorothy and John, address contemporary questions and misconceptions. This episode provides listeners with insights into how the Eucharist fosters a deep sense of community and spiritual nourishment, encouraging reflection on its transformative power in personal and communal faith journeys. Whether you're a lifelong Catholic or simply curious about the faith, this podcast invites you to deepen your understanding and appreciation of this sacred tradition.

3. The Eucharist

Does God Have a Plan for Me?

In today's episode we talk about how every baptized Catholic needs to embrace their role as priest, prophet, and king and be made aware of the diverse ways God can work through them. Each of us possess unique talents and gifts meant for the service of others. As a family of parishes, we want to create opportunities for individuals to discover and develop these gifts and foster a spirit of prayer and discernment within the community as well as encourage individuals to seek and understand God’s specific calling for them.

Whether you're a lifelong Catholic or simply curious about the faith, this podcast provides thought-provoking dialogue that challenges and inspires.

4. Is There a Plan for Me?

"Still Catholic" is a podcast dedicated to exploring the depths of Catholic faith in the modern world, and its latest episode, "Fasting, Prayer, and Almsgiving," delves into the spiritual practices that are integral to Catholic tradition, particularly during the Lenten season. This episode offers listeners a thoughtful exploration of how these three pillars can enhance one’s spiritual life and foster a deeper connection with God. 

Fr. Chris, Dorothy and John discuss the significance of fasting as a means of self-discipline and purification, prayer as a powerful tool for communication with God, and almsgiving as an expression of love and solidarity with those in need. 

Through engaging conversations, "Still Catholic" invites its audience to reflect on how these practices can be integrated into daily life to nurture both personal and communal spiritual growth. Whether you are a lifelong Catholic or someone curious about the faith, this episode promises to provide valuable perspectives and inspiration.


5. Fasting, Prayer and Almsgiving

In this episode of Still Catholic, Fr. Chris, Dorothy, and John sat down to discuss the modern phenomenon of doomscrolling and its varied effects on individuals. Fr. Chris expressed concern from a spiritual standpoint, highlighting how constant exposure to negative news can breed a sense of hopelessness and anxiety and how doomscrolling often leads to increased stress and mental fatigue, as our brains are not equipped to handle the relentless barrage of distressing information. 
Each of them share how they handle setting boundaries with technology and acknowledging the challenge of staying informed in order to take action and make a difference, but also being aware of finding a balance by taking regular breaks from screens. Together, they agreed that while doomscrolling can have detrimental effects, being mindful and intentional about media consumption can help mitigate its impact.


6. Doomscrolling

Kent Lambton Roman Catholic Family of Parishes