Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi. Segment I: The Gathering VIII - Championship Moments of Faith and Life will be held Saturday morning, February 2, at Holy Family Catholic Community in Inverness. Guests: Bob Fallon; Joe Ferlita; Pastor Corey Brooks; Fr. Terry Keehan. Segment II: Editor Joyce Duriga discusses the latest issue of Chicago Catholic. Segment III: Karie Farrell talks about her on-line religious goods store.

In this broadcast of Focus on the Liturgy, co-hosts Danielle Noe and Todd Williamson discuss the season of Ordinary Time. In the weeks following the Christmas Season, the Liturgy of the Church presents us with a view of what discipleship and the Christian Life should look like now that we have experienced - again - the Great Mystery of the Incarnation.

Andrew Lyke was our guest this morning. Andrew talked about his battle with Leukemia and his body's reaction to the bone marrow transplant he received. Despite this Andrew sees his illness as a gift and, along with his wife Terry, is struggling to become active again with their marriage ministry and a voice to heal racial tension. He his grateful and blessed by his village of supporters and loves to be involved with hosting Karaoke events.

Host: Bob Gilligan. Segment I: Alex Berenson joins Bob to talk about his just-released book, "Tell Your Children: The Truth About Marijuana, Mental Illness and Violence." Segment II: Anthony Holter, executive director of Empower Illinois, talks to Bob about the just-opened application process for Year 2 of the Tax Credit Scholarship program. Segment III: Kevin Appleby, senior director for the Center for Migration Studies, joins Bob to offer some clarity on what is really happening with immigrants and refugees along the border with Mexico. Segment IV: Rep. Jeanne Ivestalks to Bob about her tenure in the Illinois Legislature and the final email she sent out to her constituents about the state's dire financial situation.

Catholic Schools Superintendent Dr. Jim Rigg and Graziano Marcheschi of Shalom Media visit with members of the St. Francis de Sales High School Choir and Band. Father Paul Whittington, pastor of the newly formed St. Katherine Drexel Church on Chicago’s south side, talks with Deacon John Cook about the transition that is taking place in their faith community. On the Mission of Love program, host Jen Delvaux visits with Valarie Jennings who plays a key role in the Archdiocese’s Department for Parish Vitality and Mission. And Mission Matters host Megan Mio talks to a local pastor who ministered to people in Mexico for five years.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Juan 2, 11 del domingo, 20 de enero de 2019. Viernes, 18 de enero de 2019.

Megan interviews Fr. Carmelo Mendez, current Pastor of Holy Cross-Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Chicago. He recently returned after five years serving in the Diocese of San Cristobal de las Casas in southeast Mexico from 2013-2018. Fr. Carmelo shares what pastoral ministry looks like in this rural, mountainous region of Mexico. The indigenous people's deep faith in a personal God, which is shaped by their traditions and environment, has left an impression and taught him much about pastoral ministry.

Jenn Delvaux from the Office for Evangelization and Missionary Discipleship was joined by Valerie Jennings, Parish Vitality Coordinator for Vicariate VI, for a discussion about the journey of Renew My Church. The stories Valerie shared, and her experiences highlight the crucial role of building community among our parish groupings, prayer, and abundant hospitality. Valerie opened up her experience and offers advice to every Catholic in Chicago as we continue the effort to form vital parishes with a culture of evangelization.

Todays guest, Fr. Paul Whittington, spoke to us about his upbringing and decision to become a priest. Fr. Paul also spoke about his transition to St. Katharine Drexel Church and the Renew my Church initiative.

Hosts: Dr. Jim Rigg and Graziano Marcheschi. Segment I: St. Giles School celebrates 90 years. Guest: R. J. McMahon. Segment II: St. Francis de Sales High School Choir. Guests: Vick Bluhm; Roman Perez; Paola Serrano; Myana Jackson.

Holy Name Cathedral Rector Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi of Shalom Media talk about Christian Unity with Dr. Dan Olsen, Director of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs for the Archdiocese of Chicago, and Pastor Brian Wise, Associate Pastor of Outreach at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Naperville. Fr. Greg and Graz visit with author Kenneth Woodward about his book, Getting Religion. Deacon John Cook has a very interesting conversation with the President of Hales Franciscan High School, Anthony Daniels-Halisi. Catholic Charities President Msgr. Michael Boland visits with two guests who are responsible for enhancing the quality of life for senior citizens. Respect-life advocate Dawn Fitzpatrick is a guest on Catholic Chicago with show-hosts Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi. And Fr. Greg and Graz talk to the Director and Chaplain of Calvert House at the University of Chicago, Fr. Andrew Liaugminas.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Lucas 3, 15-16.21-22 del domingo, 13 de enero de 2019. Viernes, 11 de enero de 2019.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi. Segment I: Dawn Fitzpatrick talks about the various activites around the March for Life Chicago which takes place this Sunday, January 13. Segment II: Fr. Andrew Liaugminas is a priest of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Director and Chaplain of Calvert House at the University of Chicago. Fr. Andrew joins Fr. Greg and Graz to talk about his ministry.

Youth Synod 2018 and World Youth Day heighten outreach to engage young people in the church. These events are creating global milestones that offer astounding opportunities for today’s young people. The Church turns a listening ear to young people. In October, Yadira Vieyra delegate to the Synod of Bishops XV Ordinary General Assembly representing the Archdiocese of Chicago took to Rome as an advocate for young people. What do young people want from the Church? Find out as Yadira, a dynamic young leader shares her experience. As young people throughout the world are preparing for World Youth Day -Panama 2019, Robbie Anderson, an expert of youth ministry brings to light the life changing impact of World Youth Day. As three-time attendee of World Youth Day, Robbie advocates to inspire our listeners of all ages. The impact of Robbie’s encounter of the suffering Jesus Christ at World Youth Day is an incredible faith sharing experience. Marie Ramirez, is getting ready to participate in her first World Youth Day in Panama. Marie’s enthusiasm is expressed by hope -filled stories. Tune-in for more. Broadcast of Lifelong Journey is hosted by Patricia Malinowski and co-hosts Victor Vallejo Garcia and Juan Pablo Padilla. This show enlivens the inclusion of young people in the church.

Yesterday we interviewed President Anthony Daniels-Halisi of Hales Franciscan High School. He shared with us his family upbringing, his parents' pivotal relationship and connection to the beginning of the Kwanza celebration. As president of Hales Franciscan high school he is determined to live out those principles with his students in Bronzeville's historically black community.

Over the years, Catholic Charities has offered comprehensive services so that seniors are able to live independently or with caregiver in their own homes and communities. In addition, we have expanded to meet the changing needs of seniors who may be low –income or living alone without family nearby through our Home Care Program. Catholic Charities Vice-President of Senior Services, Mary Ann Bibat and Associate Vice President of Senior Services, Community Based Services and Auxiliary Services, Angela Taylor join Monsignor Boland to share more.

Host: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi. Segment I: The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity is held annually from January 18-25. Guests: Dan Olsen; Pastor Brian Wise. Segment II: Kenneth Woodward is in-studio to talk about his latest book: "Getting Religion: Faith, Culture, and Politics from the Age of Eisenhower to the Ascent of Trump."

Deacon John Cook rings in the New Year with Valerie Jennings and Deacon James Norman. Catholic Charities President Msgr. Michael Boland and his guests talk about the importance of youth mentors. Dawn Fitzpatrick brings us up to date on Respect Life activities planned for January. Sr. Lovina Francis Pammit and Sr. Mary Kay Brooks discuss very practical New Year resolutions. And Deacon Richard Hudzik talks with fellow Deacons Tom Lambert and Dan Welter about helping individuals and families deal with mental illness.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 2, 1-12 del domingo, 6 de enero de 2019. Viernes, 4 de enro de 2019.

Deacons Tom Lambert and Dan Welter speak with Deacon Richard Hudzik about what the Church’s response is to persons affected by mental illness—those with such a diagnosis, their families and friends and the communities in which all of us live. Deacons Lambert and Welter are active in both the local Church’s response, as well as national and regional efforts to offer the embrace of the Church. Citing statistics that show mental illness affects virtually every person, either as patient or someone who loves or knows a patient, the deacons have responded to encourage parishes and other deacons to confront the issues of mental illness. The stigma, isolation and fear that surround the topic and the persons affected, directly or indirectly, can be minimized if not healed. By embracing the whole person, both body, soul and spirit, the compassion of Jesus can come to life. Parish- and regionally-based initiatives in the Archdiocese are discussed, as well as directions that point the listeners to helpful resources.

Sister Lovina and Sister Mary Kay discuss various prayer forms not commonly known but easy to incorporate in our daily lives as a way to start the new year and develop a prayer practice as disciples/followers of Jesus. Try prayer walking (maybe a labyrinth walk!) or using music and poetry to help quiet our centers and make space for God. Prayer can be the container/unifying factor to help us with our top resolutions (better health practices, saving money or improving our relationships).

This month, Dawn welcomes His Excellency, Bishop Donald Hying from the Diocese of Gary to discuss the importance of standing up for Life and attending the March for Life Chicago. In addition, many of the January events surrounding Anniversary of the Roe vs. Wade decision this month. In addition, Dawn welcomes Olga Anlglada from Immigration Ministries to talk about the Church’s teaching on Immigration and Migration Week here in the Archdiocese of Chicago.

Valarie Jennings and Deacon James Norman updated us on Renew My Church initiatives. They discussed the difficulties and realities of "change", but they also recognized the necessity of making the Catholic Church stronger and more viable for everyone in the future.

January is National Mentoring Month and there are about 9 million young people without a mentor outside their family to help them on their path to adulthood and beyond. At Catholic Charities we work to provide youth with positive roles models who encourage good decision making and serve as a friend in times of need. This is particularly important in communities where children are facing challenging circumstances due to poverty and violence. Joining Monsignor Boland to discuss Catholic Charities youth mentoring program in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood is Nico May, Youth Mentorship Program Coordinator for the Back of the Yards program and Pedro Martinez, Youth Mentorship program intern and a senior at Northeastern Illinois University.

We look back at 20-18 and get a preview of the New Year with four guests representing very important ministries of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Holy Name Cathedral Rector Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi of Shalom Media visit with Catholic Schools Superintendent Dr. Jim Rigg. Catholic Charities President Msgr. Michael Boland joins Fr. Greg and Graz to talk about the ongoing outreach to the needy in the Chicago area. Next up, Fr. Greg and Graz visit with Fr. Jason Malave, the Cardinal’s Delegate to Renew My Church. Finally, Sr. Stephanie Baliga of the Mission of Our Lady of the Angels talks about their ministry in West Humboldt Park and upcoming marathon fund-raisers.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Lucas 2, 41-52 del domingo, 30 de diciembre de 2018. Viernes, 28 de diciembre de 2018.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi. This is our annual year-in-review program where we reflect back on accomplishments of the past year and look forward to the challenges of 2019. Guests: Dr. Jim Rigg; Monsignor Michael Boland; Fr. Jason Malave; Sr. Stephanie Baliga

This broadcast of Focus on the Liturgy aired the day after Christmas, on the Feast of St. Stephen! Co-hosts Danielle Noe and Todd Williamson discuss the Christmas Season, along with Timothy Johnston (from LTP). Together they break open the theology of the Season, exploring the Nativity, Epiphany and the Baptism of the Lord. Along the way they discuss the rites and ritual, the symbols, music and texts of Christmas Tide.

Host: Fr. Greg Sakowicz hosts our annual Christmas music program.

Catholic Conference of Illinois Executive Director Bob Gilligan talks with Ryan Bomberger, founder of the Radiance Foundation, about the March for Life Chicago. On the Black Catholic Initiative radio program, Deacon John Cook talks with Monica Chapman about her life as a young adult Catholic. Catholic Charities President Msgr. Michael Boland and two of his food-service specialists discuss providing nutritious meals for the needy. On our Mission of Love program, Beth White and Jenn Delveux visit with Cliff Barber, Chief Strategist for Renew My Church. Fr. Britto Berchmans and Deacon Bob Bulger discuss maintaining the true spirit of the Christmas Season. And Megan Mio talks with representatives of an organization that brings surgical services to third world countries.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Lucas 1, 39-45 del domingo, 23 de diciembre de 2018. Viernes, 21 de diciembre de 2018.

In this episode, we announced that the co-host, Deacon Bob Bulger, will be stepping away from the show to begin his retirement. The rest of this show then involved a retrospective review of what Fr Britto and Deacon Bob had learned about marriage and relationships over the course of their 60 shows together. We talked about the family as giving meaning and purpose to 69% of the respondents to a Pew Research Study. We talked about marriage being a countercultural movement in the face of rising cohabitation rates and decreasing marriage rates. We reflected that love involves taking a risk, surrendering oneself for the good of the other and the relationship. We recalled some of the guests we had interviewed and what they taught us. Finally Deacon Bob closed be reflecting that some of the greatest achievements parents recall occur when they are the most subservient to their families. The outcomes of our sacrifices are usually known in hindsight.

Megan meets with three representatives of the Evanston mission-sending organization, Solidarity Bridge, which works to build a healthier future for the people of Bolivia and Paraguay through domestic and international partnerships. Megan interviews Ann Rhomberg, Executive Director of Solidarity Bridge, as well as Dr. Dan Lum, pediatrician, and Dr. Robert LaPata, a retired obstetrician and gynecologist, who have both participated in many mission trips. They reflect on how this work of mutuality and justice in the medical field has impacted their faith lives. Learn more about being in solidarity with those who suffer from a lack of access to health care.

Solidarity Bridge Executive Director, Ann, along with Dr. Lum and Dr. LaPata continue the conversation. The doctors talk in depth about getting involved in medical mission trips. Ann tells us more about the Mission Team Chaplains and partner Catholic parishes, such as St. Nicholas in Evanston.

Co-hosts Beth White and Jenn Delvaux from the Office for Evangelization and Missionary Discipleship were joined by Cliff Barber, Chief Strategist for Renew My Church, who shared his journey to his role in the Archdiocese and our renewal process. The core of evangelization is always grounded in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and Cliff shared his commitment to prayer and ongoing renewal. The second half of the show was dedicated to personal prayer resources, good reads and ways to connect on a deeper level with Jesus.

Our guest Monica Chapman, a young adult candidate with the Archdiocese, spoke with us about her influences in life and her work as a mentor. She also spoke about being a mentee with Theology on Tap and her selection into the Coalesce program and being chosen to receive a prestigious award. Finally, she shares her thoughts on how one could get started mentoring to others.

Hunger is one of the biggest problems we face today. Nearly 800,000 people throughout Chicago are food insecure and many of those impacted are children. The winter months can sometimes be challenging for families trying to make ends meet. At Catholic Charities, we recognize the importance of quality nutrition and we work to provide healthy meals to families in need. Joining Monsignor Boland to discuss the various ways Catholic Charities provides food and nutrition education and services is Diane Nunley, Associate Vice-Present Special Supplemental Food and Tal Vanek, Assistant Director Special Supplement Food.

Host: Bob Gilligan. Segment I: Ryan Bomberger, founder of the Radiance Foundation, joins Bob to talk about the March for Life Chicago on Sunday, January 13. Segment II: Mike Stark talks aout the recenly released documentary, "A Glorius Life: Cardinal Francis George". Segment III: Chicago Catholic editor Joyce Duriga talks about her recently published biography of Fr. Augustus Tolton, "Augustus Tolton: The Church is the True Liberator".

Catholic Schools Superintendent Dr. Jim Rigg and Graziano Marcheschi of Shalom Media talk about the importance of service projects with representatives of Trinity High School. On our Black Catholic Initiative radio program, Deacon John Cook talks with Thomas Drexler, an advocate for the homeless. Catholic Charities President Msgr. Michael Boland and his guests discuss their much-needed outreach to families in crisis. Patricia Malinowski, Juan Padilla and Victor Garcia talk with Fr. Louis Cameli about his new book on family life. And Holy Name Cathedral Rector Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi host a conversation with the Cardinal’s Vicar for Health Care, Fr. William Grogan, and several other guests representing the health care community.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Lucas 3, 10-18 del domingo, 16 de diciembre de 2018. Viernes, 14 de noviembre de 2018.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi. The entire hour of this program focuses on Health Care with guests lined up by the Cardinal's Vicar for Health Care, Fr. William Grogan. Guests: Fr. William Grogan; Susan O'Leary; Linda VanDeventer; Dr. Reinhold Llerena; Nancy Flowers; Laura Messineo; Roberta Rakove.

The Advent theme of this segment of Lifelong Journey is wrapped in the fruits of the Synod on the Family. Notably, as Fr. Louis J. Cameli bridges the journey from the synod to pastoral attentiveness of families, in his new book A New Vision of Family Life, A Reflection on Amoris Laetitia. This book is a treasure for married couples and families. Fr. Cameli guides us into a greater awareness of the presence of God amid the daily lives of families, who are the formators of the domestic church. Listeners will discover how to spiritually internalize a family readiness for the coming celebration of Jesus this Christmas. Takeaways inspire reflection that lead to faith-filled action. Pre-Cana facilitators Jane and Tim OLeary engage listeners in personal stories of Catholic family traditions shared with their family during Advent. The show is hosted by Patricia Malinowski and co-host Victor Vallejo Garcia.

This time of year can be a happy time for many, but for a family in crisis, it can be a difficult. Many individuals and families can experience unforeseen events such as losing a job or home and struggling to pay bills, provide food for their family, or stay warm this winter. Catholic Charities Family Stabilization Services provides assistance to families in need of emergency food, clothing, housing employment assistance and referrals. Joining Monsignor Boland to talk about our services for those most in need and who are struggling during this time of year is Sharon Tillman, department director of Catholic Charities Family Stabilization Services and Kendrea Atkins, Program Supervisor of Catholic Charities.

Today's guest, Tom Drexler, is Executive Director of Ignation Spirituality Project. It works to end homelessness by providing Ignation retreats to men and women who are homeless. They are partnering with The Chicago Coalition for Homeless who offers a 12 step program, Harmony , Hope, & Healing, which offers music and counseling among other services, and Old St. Patrick Church who will be providing the church for the event, and Franciscan Outreach who provides housing and meals. There is an event next Tuesday, December 18th at 6:30pm at Old St. Patrick Church, called Memorial for the Homeless. It is an interfaith mass service to support the Homeless throughout Chicago.

Hosts: Jim Rigg and Graziano Marcheschi. Segment I: Trinity High School Students Volunteer for Service Projects. Guests: Jamie Visser; Rose Crnkovich. Segment II: Sacred Heart School Receives Blue Ribbon Award. Guests: Kristen Fink; Sheelagh Spooner; Jim Campbell; 4th Grader Sam

Holy Name Cathedral Rector Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Graziano Marcheschi of Shalom Media talk with Cardinal Blase Cupich about the abuse crisis in the Church. Deacon John Cook talks with Candace Anderson about how violence in the city has touched her life. Catholic Charities President Msgr. Michael Boland and his guests discuss how they have helped children during the holiday season with their Celebration of Giving program. Dawn Fitzpatrick, Ryan Lents and Fr. Jim Heyd preview upcoming respect life activities. Sr. Lovina Pammit talks with Sr. Connie Bach about her life of ministering to others. And Deacon Richard Hudzik interviews Deacon Alfred Coleman, the director of Zacchaeus House in Chicago.

Deacon Alfred Coleman, Executive Director of Zacchaeus House, speaks with Deacon Richard Hudzik about the work of Zacchaeus House. Deacon Alfred explains the origins of this south-side ministry that provides stability and shelter for men in transition from homelessness to a return to productivity and tranquility in life. The focus of the stay at the House, which can accommodate up to nine men at a time, is on job training, education, spirituality and psychologically healthy living. The healing of the hurts caused by homelessness—hurts caused to the families of the men, to the men themselves and to the community—is explored. Deacon Alfred relates how everyone can respond to homelessness, being especially mindful of those in their own families who, without intervention, support and love, might be on the path to homelessness themselves. The success stories as well as the sorrows and failures that happen to the men are told. We see both the Resurrection and the Fall in life at Zacchaeus House.

Sister Lovina Francis Pammit, OSF interviews guest Sister Connie Bach, PHJC (Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ) who talks about her vocation story, ministries (including coordination of PHJC Volunteers), involvement with CAVA and other collaborations, and foundress St. Katharina Kasper’s recent canonization. To reach Sr. Connie, email [email protected] or call (574) 340-6409.

On today’s show, Dawn and Ryan speak with Michael Warrell, who shares info about the upcoming Immigration Ministry Posada, scheduled for Friday, December 14. We also discuss National Migration Week in January. On the second half of the show, Fr. Jim Heyd from St. Constance talks about several local Masses for Life that happening in conjunction with the March for Life Chicago, on Sunday, January 13, as well as several other events that will be happening before and after the march.

Todays guest Candace Anderson joined and updated us on the homeless services that DePaul U.S.A. provides in the Chicago area. On a personal note she shares the tragic story about her son whom she lost to gun violence and how she is coping with his loss.