One of the best things about living in Chicago is the change of seasons. But in December, the change of seasons can be dreaded by those who do not have the funds for, or access to warm clothing. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Sharon Tillmon, Department Director of Catholic Charities Family Stabilization Services to discuss the vital role that our Clothing Rooms play in our wrap-around services to help clients stay warm in the winter, and reach their greatest possible levels of self-sufficiency.

Hosts: Melissa Link and Ronnie Facen. Segment I: Catholic Schools Celebrate Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Guests: Scott Ernst; Velia Delgado; Andrea Guevara; Leah Reynoso. Segment II: Saint Patrick High School Makes St. Robert Bellarmine Student Honorary Basketball Captain. Guests: Mary Beth Nelson; Paul Csongradi

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Lucas 3, 10 – 18, del domingo, 12 de diciembre de 2021. Viernes, 10 de diciembre de 2021

We learn more about the quincentennial of the Philippines and the annual Simbang Gabi Novena. The annual 9-day novena is back in-person this year. We hear about the opportunity to learn more about catechesis and evangelization through this this novena. Our guest is Fr. Tirso Villaverde. 

Besides the Nativity of our Lord, there are two very special feast days in December that feature Our Blessed Mother: The Feast of the Immaculate Conception and The Feast of our Lady of Guadalupe. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Reverend Gerard Kelly, C.M., Chaplain of Catholic Charities to explain the importance of these feast days and discuss how both days give us great reason for hope, even as the effects of the pandemic continue to present challenges for all.

Members of the God Squad‚ a team of volunteers from Chicago-area parishes, assembled the Nativity at Daley Plaza on Nov. 27, 2021. The annual tradition, now in its 36th year, is the only traditional display of the Nativity Scene in downtown Chicago’s public square. The group has launched a fundraising campaign to restore the statues and replace the major portions of the scene, some of which are over 30 years old. www.chicagocatholic.com

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Vicki Quade, creator of Late Nite Catechism, joins our hosts to talk about Christmas traditions, movie and theater reviews, and her new book.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Lucas 3, 1 – 6, del domingo, 5 de diciembre de 2021. Viernes, 3 de diciembre de 2021

John Siyumbu, MM (Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers Maryknoll Society) got to know the Maryknoll Missionaries in Kenya, east Africa, and manages to bring about a major change in this community’s policies. This past October, John was ordained a transitional deacon, and will be ordained as a priest next year. He is currently finishing his formation studies at the Catholic Theological Union (CTU) and hopes to graduate in May 2022. Tune in and be inspired by his vocation journey.

Join Deacons Richard Hudzik and Dave Brencic in their conversation with Deacon Dan Welter. Deacon Dan, an Archdiocese of Chicago deacon, has an interesting resume. He is not only a retired Cook County judge, current Chancellor, but he also serves as a department store Santa Claus. We will talk with Deacon Dan about the good news he has seen in the department store—where he serves not only the children, but the parents and the store employees as well. To conclude the conversation, to show another dimension of Deacon Dan, we talk with about his duties as Chancellor for the Archdiocese of Chicago—who and what a chancellor is and does.

Dawn and Blanca welcome Father Charlie Plavonach from St Leonard’s in Berwyn to discuss his experience with Theology of the Body and how important it is for Men and Women to work together in God’s Plan. On the second half of the show, Jose Carlos Sandoval, a parishioner at St Leonard’s joins the discussion to share his conversion story and how TOB set his life on the right path. They also discuss an event at The Athenaeum on Friday December 3rd—The Theology of Our Lady of Gaudalupe.

Throughout its history, Catholic Charities has been tremendously fortunate to have caring corporate partners, benefactors, trusted advisors and volunteers who believe in the mission of the agency as much as our leaders and employees do. When all of the members of one family fill all of these roles, we are especially blessed, and grateful. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Emile, Shari, Andrew and Caitlin Johnson to discuss their many contributions to the work of Catholic Charities, and their family ethos about giving back that inspires many people.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Michele Sotak and Fr. Lou Cameli spend the hour talking about the connection between faith and physical fitness.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Lucas 21, 25 – 28. 34 - 36, del domingo, 28 de noviembre de 2021. Viernes, 26 de noviembre de 2021

Catholic Charities is delighted to welcome guests back into 721 N. LaSalle Street on Thursday, November 25th, for the traditional Thanksgiving Day luncheon. This is one of our many efforts to continue to fight hunger and celebrate the holidays with our guests. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Andrew McKernin, Manager of Volunteer Relations, and Sharon Holmes, Supervisor of our eight Food Pantries to discuss how Catholic Charities will be offering a safe and festive Thanksgiving Day meal. We also will discuss the challenges of keeping Catholic Charities food pantries stocked over the winter months, and easy, very helpful ways that the public can support those who are facing food insecurity.

Hosts: Fr,. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Dr. Edward Gordon gives an update on the Covid-19 pandemic and spends time discussing the current labor shortage in health care and other areas.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Juan 18, 33 - 37, del domingo, 21 de noviembre de 2021. Viernes, 19 de noviembre de 2021

Co-hosts Fr. Britto Berchmans and Sandy Labouvie unpack their previous interview with guests Bob and Patti Nowak.

Megan sits down with Jenn Delvaux, the Senior Evangelization Coordinator for the Archdiocese of Chicago Office of Evangelization. They discuss what the phrase “missionary disciple” meanings and its origins. Jenn and Megan compare notes for what a missionary disciple looks like if he/she is active in the parish community and if she/he is active in local or global mission. They talk about what this has to do with Renew My Church here in the Archdiocese of Chicago and what it could mean for a complete culture change in the Catholic Church.

Continuing on the theme of the eight qualities of a culture of evangelization, co-hosts Elizabeth White and Jenn Delvaux talk about the importance of mission. Joseph Malham, iconographer and author, joined the conversation to talk about his journey and his role as an artist in residence at St. Gregory the Great church, which is part of Mary, Mother of God parish. Through his gifts and talents, Joe witnesses to God’s love and grace. To find out more about Joe and his works visit trinity-icons.myshopify.com/

Catholic Charities St. Nicholas Ball is among the largest, most glamorous events of the Christmas season in Chicago! Benefactors, families and friends look forward each year to this gala that raises crucial funds for our programs and services. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Angel Gutierrez, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, along with the 2021 Co-Christmas Gift CoordinatorS of Lake County, Steve and Christy King to preview this fabulous evening, and the ways that the work of Catholic Charities in Cook and Lake counties leads the way for the planning of the St. Nicholas Ball.

Guests are Darlene Duggan, vice president of the FIRE Foundation of Greater Chicago, and Michael Kendrick, principal of St. James School in Arlington Heights

Host: Bob Gilligan. Segment I; Repeal of the Parental Notification of Abortion Act. Guest: Rep. Chris Bos, 51st District. Segment II: Healthcare Right of Conscience Act. Guest: Patrick Cacchione. Segment III: Visas for Religious Workers. Guest: David Spicer, J.D.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Marcos 13, 24 - 32, del domingo, 14 de noviembre de 2021. Viernes, 12 de noviembre de 2021

Host: Mark Teresi. Segment I: Julie Ryan McGue is an identical twin and an adoptee. Her writing centers on finding out who you really are, where you belong, and making sense of it. Segment II: Fr. J. Michael Sparough produced and directed a 33-minute documentary titled “Courage to Forgiv.” It is the story of Cardinal Bernardin’s reconciliation with his accuser, Steven Cook and a moving tribute honoring the Cardinal with a message of forgiveness.

Guests: Jeanne Lassandrello and Kathy McNicholas

Are you looking for a way to make your Christmas season especially meaningful this year? Look no further than Catholic Charities 74th Annual Celebration of Giving! Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Jim Wogan, Barbara Campbell and Diane Kennedy to learn more about the 2021 Celebration of Giving and discuss how this joy-filled tradition unites individuals and families, colleagues, neighbors, and strangers, spreading Christmas cheer throughout Cook and Lake counties.

Host: Melissa Link. Segment I: Greg Richmond, superintendent of Chicago Catholic schools, gives an update on archdiocesan schools. Segment II: Catholic High School Entrance Exam. Guests: Kristy Kane, Mike Madera. Segment III: Prince of Peace School in Lake Villa Earns National Blue Ribbon Award. Guest: Dr. Stephanie Stoneberg.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Marcos 12, 38 - 44, del domingo, 7 de noviembre de 2021. Viernes, 5 de noviembre de 2021

Sister Joni Luna, S.P., a Sister of Providence of St. Mary of the Woods, IN, describes her journey during a time when success in life began to feel empty, at which time she felt a shift in her values. She talks about how that sense of restlessness led her to respond to the call to religious life. Sr. Joni recounts her preparation time and the moment of professing perpetual vows, and how these experiences continue to deepen her spiritual life. Currently serving as her community’s Vocations Director, Sr. Joni invites others to explore God’s call in their lives. For more information, contact Sr. Joni at [email protected] www.SistersofProvidence.org. Link to article on Sr. Joni’s final Vows (and Sr. Jessica’s First vows) Sr. Joni's final Vows More about Sr. Joni

Join Deacons Richard Hudzik and Dave Brencic in their conversation with two well-known figures in the Archdiocese of Chicago—Father Larry Sullivan, Director of the Archdiocese Cemetery System, and Todd Williamson, Director of the Archdiocese Office for Divine Worship. The four conversation partners offer ideas about how to honor our dead and pray throughout the month of November. Family-friendly tips on how to revere our past and pray in the present and how to bring children into this process were discussed. Also, our two guests brought to light some of the highlights of what the Archdiocese’s cemetery system has to offer all of us.

Today on Fully Alive, Dawn introduces Blanca Rodriguez, Respect Life Coordinator in the Respect Life Office. They talk about what brought Blanca to share ministry at the Archdiocese during the first half of the show. In the second half of the show, Dawn and Blanca discuss many of the upcoming events that will be presented in 2022 by Respect Life Ministries. In addition, they talk about the upcoming CCHD collection and how the funds will be used to help break the poverty cycle by helping low-income people participate in decisions that affect their lives, families and communities.

In the first installment of this new podcast series, Chicago Catholic editor Joyce Duriga interviews local historian Ellen Skerrett about new research she has uncovered about Jesuit Father Arnold Damen, pastor of Holy Family Church on Roosevelt Road and Ignatius College, and the vital aid he gave to Catholic immigrants who lost everything in the Chicago Fire. Skerrett also talks about anti-Catholicism of the day and how it impacted the narrative of the Great Chicago Fire, including what was believed about the fire's origins and Mrs. O'Leary. Skerrett is an expert on local Catholic history and is co-author or author of several books. She also curated the historic exhibit to St. Frances Xavier Cabrini at the national shrine in Lincoln Park.

In 1947, parents who adopted children from St. Vincent’s Orphanage in Chicago joined together to purchase gifts for children who had not yet been adopted. Today, in the same building, at 721 N. LaSalle Street, Catholic Charities continues this heartwarming tradition of providing gifts to those who would otherwise have nothing to open Christmas Day. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Emily Lewis and Judy Kendzior to discuss how The Celebration of Giving connects, and brings joy to thousands of individuals and families throughout Chicago and its suburbs each year.

Host Joyce Duriga sits down with Ellen Skerrett to talk about Fr. Damen and the impact of the Chicago fire on Catholics.

Host: Mark Teresi. Mother Cabrini's Feast Day begins the Jubilee Year in Honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Canonization of Mother Cabrini. Guests: Sr. Joan McGlinchey, Fr. Dominic Grassi, Fr. Ramil Fajardo

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Marcos 12, 28 - 34, del domingo, 31 de octubre de 2021. Viernes, 29 de octubre de 2021

Host: Fr. Greg Sakowicz. Sr. Ângela de Fátima Coelho, author of Inside the Light: Understanding the Message of Fatima and postulator of the cause of Saints Jacinta and Francisco Marto (two of the visionaries of Fatima) joins Fr. Greg via Zoom, all the way from Portugal. Joining Sr. Ângela on the program is Chicago radio legend and founder of the Broken Mary Project, Kevin Matthews.

In this broadcast of Focus on the Liturgy, cohosts Timothy Johnston and Todd Williamson address these last weeks of Ordinary Time. As the liturgical year winds down, Timothy and Todd talk about the Last Times, the Return of Christ in Glory and in particular, the great Feasts of All Saints, All Souls and Christ, the King of the Universe.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: The Synod on Synodality: Pope Francis' Call for Renewal. Guests: Fr. Louis Cameli; Monsignor Patrick Pollard. Segment II: Catholic Singer, Songwriter and Recording Artist, Anna Nuzzo.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Marcos 10, 46 - 52, del domingo, 24 de octubre de 2021. Viernes, 22 de octubre de 2021

Thanks to technology, we have started to interview couples again. On this show we meet Bob and Patti Nowak who offer us some interesting insights into marriage. They give a unique perspective as their marriage is a fruitful one, blessing many in the community. In our next show we will present the wonderful lessons we learned from their interview.

Megan talks with Fr. Michael Madigan, Society Leader in the USA for the St. Patrick's Missionary Society. The Society, also known as the St. Patrick Fathers, has more than 200 members from a variety of local faith communities who minister in nine countries in Africa, including Zambia and Nigeria, as well as Brazil and Grenada in the Caribbean. Fr. Madigan shares about his missionary experiences and memories in various parts of Africa. Megan also asks Fr. Madigan to share his reflections on the World Mission Sunday celebration, which takes place this Sunday, October 24. #StPatrickFathers #WorldMissionSunday

Beth White and Jenn Delvaux from the Office for Evangelization and Missionary Discipleship take a deep dive into personal prayer. They talk about why it is important for evangelization - you have to know who you are evangelizing. And they share a list of resources to help you develop or grow your prayer live (visit evangelizechicago.org for the list). The second half of the show features Alessandro DiSanto, one of three founders of a Catholic Meditation app called Hallow available at Hallow.com or your favorite app store. This app was developed here in Chicago to help Catholics explore the richness of our Catholic prayer options.

One of the greatest concerns for low-income residents in Cook and Lake is having a safe, affordable place to call home. Today, Catholic Charities has twenty-three residences that address this, by offering qualifying individuals the opportunity for independent living within caring communities. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Antwaun Smith, Associate Vice-President for Housing Services to discuss the cooperative spirit that exists between staff and tenants to make each residence much more than Affordable Housing.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Marcos 10, 35 - 45, del domingo, 17 de octubre de 2021. Viernes, 15 de octubre de 2021

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Dr. Mary Amore talks about the latest developments at Mayslake Ministries. Segment II: Vicki Quade, creator of Late Nite Catechism, comes on the program to have some fun with our hosts.

Building up and supporting mothers as a culture of life - We learn more about the intentional housing focused around mothers and the programs formed through the Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation in the neighborhood of Back of the Yards.

Caring adults make all the difference in the lives of adolescents. Catholic Charities understands this, and our Youth Mentorship Programs provide a free opportunity for youth living in Lake and Cook counties to spend time with volunteers who genuinely care about them. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Sarah Loffman, Arranda Gardner, and Gloria Uriostegui to discuss how these programs nurture healthy friendships between youth and great role models.

Host: Melissa Link. Segment I: Greg Richmond, superintendent of Chicago Catholic schools, gives an update on archdiocesan schools. Segment II: The Illinois Tax Credit Scholarships Program. Guests: Jose Piñones; Emily Hanlon. Segment III: High School Placement Exam. Guest: Brian Parker