In this broadcast of Focus on the Liturgy, Timothy Johnston (LTP) and Todd Williamson (ODW) talk about the letter from Cardinal Robert Sarah in 2020, then prefect of the Congregation of Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments, about how we should return to public, communal worship once the Covid-19 Pandemic is over. Cardinal Sarah highlight’s 6 key points to our Sunday Liturgies, which Timothy and Todd unpack: The Word of the Lord, the Sacrifice of the Cross, the Banquet of the Eucharist, the Community of Christ, the House of the Lord, and the Day of the Lord.

Catholic Charities Child Care Programs offer a safe, educational environment for children to come to, often while their parents are at work. At these centers, our primary population of low-income, working mothers find much-needed Child Care assistance, and have the opportunity to learn about Catholic Charities Case Management that can help them as they strive for greater self-sufficiency. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Diane Rodriguez to discuss how the Child Care centers are faring after the pandemic, and the new opportunities that they are offering this summer.

Host: Bob Gilligan. Segment I: The pitfalls of legal marijuana. Guest: Deacon Ernest "Ernie" Martinez. Segment II: Tax Credit Scholarships. Guest: Anthony Holter, Ph.D. Segment III: Update on Physician-Assisted Suicide laws across the country. Guest: Barbara Lyons. Segment IV: Voices of Immigration. Guests: Mary Lou Matheke, Mauro Pineda.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Marcos 4, 35-41, del domingo, 20 de junio de 2021. Viernes, 18 de junio de 2021

Megan interviews Fr. Benjamin Chinnappan who is Executive Director of Dalit Solidarity, a nonprofit organization that envisions a society in India where the oppressed Dalit population has access to quality education, healthcare and economic development. Fr. Ben is originally from the southern region of India and speaks of his own personal experience seeing his home country in a crisis. He describes how his organization has attempted to alleviate some of the suffering by providing food, medicine and personal protective equipment. He and Megan discuss how the Church has responded and how we, the Church in the USA, can send our support through prayer, advocacy and financial donations.

Co-hosts, Elizabeth White and Jennifer Delvaux lead a conversation about the importance of listening in building a culture of evangelization. The first guest of the show, On the Way, is Dr. Josh Packard, Executive Director of Springtide Research Institute. Josh shares with Jenn the insights gained through their 2020 research project with young people aged 13 to 25. This generation is lonelier than any other generation. Key to their connection and thriving is having authentic, caring adults in their lives who will listen to them without an agenda. The results of their listening to Generation Z is available in their study, “The State of Religion and Young People” which is available at springtideresearch.org. Kerry Weber, Executive Editor of America Magazine joins On the Way. Co-host Beth White discusses the magazine’s 2018 study with The Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) that sought to ask Catholic women about their faith life. Up until this point, there was not one research project that only asked Catholic women questions about their faith. In this interview, Kerry shares the importance of listening to women and how they self-identify. All 1500 women self-identified as Catholic whether they actively participated in the faith or not. Listening to these women and seeking ways to be more relevant in their lives is a critical part of walking with them. To learn more about this study, follow this link: https://cara.georgetown.edu/CatholicWomenStudy.pdf

The Voice of Charity is delighted to welcome back several Home Depot executives who have generously donated materials, and volunteer efforts this spring to completely renovate the landscaping at Catholic Charities House of Good Shepherd, our domestic violence shelter for women and children who have escaped unsafe circumstances in their homes. Join Katie Bredemann as he/she welcomes Gary Hutchinson, Joe Dandan and HGS Development Director Nancy Haws to discuss the impact of this wonderful project, and how giving back to the community is inherent in the Home Depot corporate philosophy.

Hosts: Dr. Jim Rigg and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Dr. Jim Rigg gives an update about Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools. Segment II: St. Rita graduate and author, Kyle James. Guests: Kyle James; Takeshi James. Segment II: Farewell to Dr. Jim Rigg as Superintendent of Chicago Catholic Schools.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Marcos 4, 26-34, del domingo, 13 de junio de 2021. Viernes, 11 de junio de 2021

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Sr. Kathleen (Katie) Mitchell joins us for the full hour to share her vocation story, her time at the University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary, and her recent trip to Uganda.

Megan Mio from the Missions Office talks about the importance of the Summer Appeal, and the importance of missionaries sharing their experience in the time of Covid-19, and how we are called to support our global Church.

Catholic Charities St. Leo Campus for Veterans is a safe, supportive housing option for veterans in the Auburn Gresham Community. St. Leo’s is just one of the ways Catholic Charities offers support to the 20,000 veterans who come to us for assistance each year, as they work to become as self-sufficient as possible. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes David Dempsey, Program Director for St. Leo’s and Kimberly Brown, a veteran and St. Leo’s resident to discuss the ways in which St. Leo’s has continued to help veterans and their families this year.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Today on Catholic Chicago we host a panel of health care experts to discuss the outreach of Chicago's Catholic health systems to the communites that they serve. Guests: Fr. William Grogan; James Sifuentes; August J. Querciagrossa; Dennis Ryan

Co-hosts Deacon Richard Hudzik and Deacon Dave Brencic interviewed two individuals who have a heart for responding to those in our communities who are facing economic or other stresses of life—those who need food, clothing, shelter, or help with utility bills, or employment. Chicago Deacon Jesse Blanco and Mr. Michael Syslo, vice-president of the Archdiocese of Chicago St. Vincent de Paul Society, spoke about the organization of the Society, its spiritual history in the charism of Blessed Frederic Ozanam, as well as the current work of the more than ninety parishes in the Archdiocese with active St. Vincent de Paul groups. Deacon Jesse spoke of his transformative experiences as spiritual guide for the Society at St. Frances of Rome, as well as in nearby parishes. Further information about what the Society does and how you might help can be found at national entity’s website www.ssvpusa.org or from your parish’s local chapter.

In this interview, we get to know Br. Michael Gosch, CSV, Assistant Provincial as well as the Director of Housing and Programs for Viator House of Hospitality. Br. Michael talks about his background, the Viatorian community, and ministry. To find out more about the Viatorians, visit www.viatorians.com/. To volunteer or support Viator House of Hospitality that provides a safe home to young immigrant men seeking asylum in the U.S., go to: viatorhouseofhospitality.com/

During the first half of today’s Fully Alive, Dawn and Ray interview Yvonne Florczak Seeman. They take some time to discuss the all the incredible things Yvonne is doing in the prolife community. https://www.lovefromaboveinc.com/ https://thebutterflygardenillinois.org/ https://www.yvonneflorczakseeman.com/ The second half hour Dawn and Ray took some time to let everyone know about ECHO Chicago. https://pvm.archchicago.org/human-dignity-solidarity/respect-life-chastity-education/events

For nineteen years, Catholic Charities After Supper Visions program has been helping vulnerable individuals in Chicago grow in their skills as photographers. Incredible talent that has been discovered, and all who participate find support and encouragement from dedicated volunteers. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Fr. Wayne Watts, Associate Administrator for Catholic Charities and Noreen Russo, Associate Director of Mission Engagement to preview a very special After Supper Visions virtual event on Friday, June 4th celebrating all of the artists’ achievements.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 16, 16-20, del domingo, 30 de mayo de 2021. Viernes, 28 de mayo de 2021

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. The 45th annual Summer Scripture Conference at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake-Mundelein Seminary is scheduled for June 20-25. This year the theme is faith and science. Guests: Michelle Shaffer; Dr. Linda Couri; Dr. Tina Wray

In this broadcast of Focus on the Liturgy, Timothy Johnston (LTP) and Todd Williamson (ODW) talk about liturgy in the Post-Easter and Post-Pandemic time. They spend the first part of the show discussing the Solemnities that come immediately after the Easter Season (Holy Trinity and the Holy Body and Blood of Christ), and in the second half of the show they address some of the liturgical limitations which the Covid19 Pandemic brought about. What might the Liturgy look like as restrictions are lifted?

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Dr. Edward Gordon gives an update on where things stand with the Covid-19 pandemic, and then he talks with our hosts about the history of the Catholic Church in the middle ages.

Megan interviews Georgia Winson, President and Executive Director of Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach. This medical surplus recovery organization distributes medical supplies and equipment to hospitals and clinics around the world. Georgia shares about her work. Later in the show they are joined by Fr. Stan Chu Ilo, Research Professor of World Christianity and African Studies at DePaul University, Chicago and Sr. Mary Paul Asoegwu, Director of Development Ministry for the Daughters of Divine Love. They discuss a specific project called Equipped for COVID that will distribute donated medical supplies, equipment and PPE to southeast Nigeria's Catholic hospitals and clinics.

Beth White, host for On the Way, is joined by Doug Beach, Chair of NAMI FaithNet. Doug discusses Mental Health Awareness month, the resources of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (www.nami.org), and the tools available through the faith focused area of NAMI, FaithNet. As a ministry, they work with churches, parishes, synagogues, and mosques to heighten awareness and knowledge about mental illness to take away the stigma and to equip communities to walk with those who need support. Deacon Thomas Lambert joins On the Way host Beth White from the Archdiocesan Commission on Mental Illness to discuss the local efforts in the Archdiocese to support parishes in their desire to walk with those with mental illness in the community. On their website (www.miministry.org) there are resources for personal, group, and communal prayer, homily suggestions, and practical things a parish can do to create a welcoming, inclusive community. The Commission is available to provide a five-part series on mental illness in interested parishes to better prepare the community on how to support those struggling with their mental health.

Host: Bob Gilligan. Segment I: Mary-Louise Hengesbaugh of Girls' Health First talks about House Bill 1797, legislation to repeal the Parental Notice of Abortion Act. Segment II: Scott Phelps of A&M Partnership talks about Senate Bill 818, legislation on Comprehensive Sex Education. Segment III: Sue Barrett of Aid for Women talks about their upcoming Walk-A-Thon and the latest with crisis pregnancy centers.

We talk to Chicago radio legend, Kevin Matthews, about how his unexpected encounter with a broken statue of Mary led to a conversion of heart in him. And we discuss the month of May being the month of Mary.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Cardinal Blase Cupich, archbishop of Chicago, will ordain eight diocesan priests and one Canon Regular of St. John Cantius at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 15, 2021 at Holy Name Cathedral, 735 North State St., Chicago. The newly ordained priests, ranging in age from 26 to 55, hail from the Archdiocese of Chicago, as well as California, Michigan, Virginia, Colombia, Mexico and Poland. Today on Catholic Chicago, we are going to get to know three of these men. Guests: Deacon Andrew Matijevic, Deacon Robert Ryan, Deacon Leonel Sepulveda

Beth White joins Lifelong Journey for a conversation on Evangelization and the current parish context within the Archdiocese of Chicago. Beth is the director for the Office of Evangelization and Missionary Discipleship.

The 27th Annual Charities Golf Classic will be held July 19. This popular all-day gathering raises critical funds for Catholic Charities Lake County programs and services, which assist more than 60,000 residents each year. Join guest host Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Matt Davis and Ashley Styx to preview the golf outing, and discuss how the event proceeds will be used to respond to the needs of clients who are struggling more than ever this year.

Hosts: Dr. Jim Rigg and Fr. Greg Sakowicz. Segment I: Golden Apple Finalist. Guests: Sandy Holbach; Sara Lasica. Segment II: Early Childhood Language Intensive Program. Guests: Erika Gallardo; Dr. Katy Lichon; Georgina Luque

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Juan 15, 9-17, del domingo, 9 de mayo de 2021. Viernes, 7 de mayo de 2021

Sister Connie Bach, PHJC, Vocation Director for the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ poorhandmaids.org Talk about the charism of her congregation, their volunteer program and Food Ministry phjcvolprogram.org. Ph. 574-340-6409 Mrs. Kathy Brady Murfin, Vocation Director for the Sisters, Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary talks about how as a married woman she met the Sisters and became their vocation director, including her ministry of helping women grow in their spirituality. Part of this congregation’s aim is to welcome older vocations and help women explore other options other than the vowed vocation. Contact Information: website: Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary (sscm-usa.org; YouTube; Facebook Ph: 815-814-1414 email: [email protected]

Co-hosts Deacon Richard Hudzik and Deacon Dave Brencic interviewed two individuals who have a heart for responding to those in our community who are risking or experiencing homelessness. Chicago Deacon Bob Conlin spoke about his experience of serving clients of South Suburban PADS. Additional information about PADS can be found at www.sspads.org. The other guest for the show was Tina Rounds, executive director of BEDS Plus. This organization, like PADS, also provides shelter, together with a variety of ancillary services that address situations that might precipitate being homeless or in need of temporary shelter. Information for BEDS can be found at www.beds-plus.org. Long story made short—as we welcome the stranger, we find that there is more to the response to homelessness than simply providing a temporary place to stay.

During the first half of today’s Fully Alive, Dawn and Ray interview Andy Panelli and Iza Redlinski, both members of the Laudato Si Encyclical Working Group at the Archdiocese of Chicago. They discuss our calling to Care for God’s Creation, and different ways that people can get involved. On the second half of the show, they talk about the Chastity Education Initiative: what is Chastity, the many endeavors of the initiative, and things to look forward to as we ease the pandemic restrictions in Chicago.

We conclude our 3-part series on MOTHERHOOD today with a first-hand account of the plight of mothers who are coming to Catholic Charities Food Pantries for assistance this year. Family Stabilization Supervisor Sharon Holmes has made many adjustments to keep eight Catholic Charities Food Pantries in Chicago operating to their greatest possible extent throughout the pandemic. Join Brigid Murphy as she welcomes Sharon to discuss how the Food Pantries are currently doing, and Sharon will share stories of courage and resilience from the mothers she has met this year.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Dr. Ed Gordon gives an update on where things stand with the Covid-19 pandemic. Segment II: Fr. Lou Cameli, the Cardinal's Delegate for Formation and Mission, talks about the month of May being the Month of Mary.

We hear about United Catholic Youth Ministries and also get to know the first African-American president of the Catholic Lawyers Guild on Catholic Chicago. And the Voice of Charity explores lessons from the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Juan 15, 1-8, del domingo, 2 de mayo de 2021. Viernes, 30 de abril de 2021

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. An unexpected encounter with a broken statue of the Virgin Mary next to a dumpster sparked a devotion to our Blessed Mother in Kevin Matthews. Kevin has authored a book titled Broken Mary: A Journey of Hope. The Broken Mary statue, and her self-proclaimed "roadie" Kevin, will be appearing at St. Mary Immaculate Church in Plainfield in the diocese of Joliet on Wednesday, May 12 at 7pm.

In this broadcast of Focus on the Liturgy, co-hosts Timothy Johnston and Todd Williamson discuss the life-giving season of Easter. Particularly they focus on the baptismal character of Easter and having just renewed our baptism at the Easter Vigil or on Easter Sunday. Together they explore the theology of the season by breaking open the liturgies, readings and celebrations that make up this 50-day Feast.

Our 3-part series on MOTHERHOOD continues with this special program focused on the encouragement, peace, and love provided to this, and all generations, by the greatest mother of all: The Blessed Virgin Mary. Join Brigid Murphy as she welcomes Reverend Gerard Kelly, C.M., Chaplain of Catholic Charities to discuss how Our Lady’s life on earth, and Her guidance from heaven offer tremendous inspiration to all mothers, fathers, and all who seek Her presence in their lives.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: The Catholic Lawyers Guild will be installing its first African-American president, (Retired) Judge Ed Washington, on May 26. Guests: Hon. Edward Washington II; Daniel R. Murray; Hon. Thomas More Donnelly. Segment II: Dr. Mary Amore gives an update on the offerings at Mayslake Ministries.

Cuarto Domingo de Pascua Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Juan 10, 11-18, del domingo, 25 de abril de 2021. Viernes, 23 de abril de 2021

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: United Catholic Youth Ministries is a multi-parish pastoral ministry that supports youth, young adults, families and the Hispanic/Latinx community in Evanston. They have four main ministry focuses: Youth and Children Ministry, Campus Ministry, Young Adult Ministry, and Hispanic Ministry. Guests: James Holzhauer-Chuckas, Alex Roman, Alize Ramirez. Segment II: Today (April 22) is Earth Day. The Catholic Climate Covenant collaborates with other Catholic organizations to advance the Church's call for us to love and care for God's creation and our vulnerable neighbors. Guest: Jose Aguto

Clarissa Aljentera from the Office for Lifelong Formation joins Beth White, host, for On the Way to discuss anti-racism, her upcoming course at Boston College, and ways the Archdiocese is proactively trying to have very important conversations and ultimately put into practice, issues around race and diversity, specifically through a newly formed Racial Justice Circle and a novena for racial justice being prayed by employees of the pastoral center. Clarissa also suggests a few resources that might help listeners to continue their own journey of learning more. Cliff Barber, Chief Strategy Officer for Renew My Church and Director of the Boston Catholic Initiative joins host, Beth White, to talk about the Black Catholic community in the Archdiocese of Chicago. They discuss the impact of parish closures and unifications in the Black Churches, primarily on the Southside of Chicago. Cliff shares his hope for the future even in the midst of great grief. The Black Catholic Initiative includes all Black Catholics in the Chicagoland area. The goal is to support and bring these Catholics together in creative ways. A new website will be launched in the coming months.

The Voice of Charity begins a three-part series celebrating MOTHERHOOD with a special show recognizing Catholic Charities Arts of Living Program. As one of the longest-running programs at the agency, the Arts of Living uses HOME VISITS to help expectant mothers, and mothers of children 0-3 by providing education, guidance and support with basic needs as they work toward greater stability in their lives. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Arts of Living Program Director Constance Upton, and Program Supervisor Danyelle Sloss to discuss the short, and long-term benefits of HOME VISITS during these formative years for all of the participants in this program.

Host: Bob Gilligan. Segment I: Josh Hale, President and CEO of Big Shoulders Fund, talks to Bob about tax credit scholarships in Illinois. Segment II: Dan Misleh, Executive Director of Catholic Climate Covenant, discusses Earth Day and environmental issues. Segment III: Tom Morrison, Illinois House Representative from District 54, talks about the proposed repeal of the Parental Notification of Abortion Act.

Holy Family Catholic Academy students got to meet a NASA scientist on Catholic Schools Today. The Voice of Charity highlights upcoming vaccination events. And Mission Matters explores mission during a pandemic.

Tercer Domingo de Pascua Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Lucas 24, 35-48, del domingo, 18 de abril de 2021. Viernes, 16 de abril de 2021

Megan interviews Fr. Jason Torba, Pastor of St. Ferdinand Parish and Marta Robak, lay leader and parishioner. St. Ferdinand Parish and other communities in the Archdiocese of Chicago have been supporting the work of the Missionaries of the Poor (MOP) Brothers for many years. Fr. Torba and Marta share the story of how this relationship began and how it became a regular commitment. Megan then asks how the pandemic challenged their plans. They explain how the MOP Team, parish leaders and the Brothers worked together to come up with creative and new ways to continue. Fr. Torba and Marta also share stories of hope and generosity. They are proud of all that has been accomplished and how everyone came together to give, and grow in their faith during a pandemic.

We speak with Chelsea Baldwin and Emily McDonnell from the Office of Lifelong Faith Formation about how youth ministry has evolved since the beginning of Covid 19. We talk about digital responses and gathering opportunities for young people.