In recent months, we have found ourselves living through an unfamilair reality that seems to have settled in far longer than any of us could ever have expected. In this episode, Fr. Britto and Sandra encourage listeners to be intentional about employing some of the positive lessons learnt during this difficult time. Rather than focusing on returning to what we once were, let us return to what we should have been all along.

On the Way focuses on two books by two different authors to help us grow as individuals and as communities of disciples. We cannot give what we do not have and continuing to grow in our relationship with Jesus is a focus of this show. The first guest who joins Beth White, is Joshua Danis, the National Director of Alpha in the Catholic Context. Josh has written a book, “Living the Fruit of the Spirit: How God’s Grace Can Transform Your World,” out of his experience of having people encounter Jesus. Written prior to the pandemic, this book, which is available through Word Among Us Press, focuses on the ways in which we can grow in the fruits of the spirit so that we can attract and witness to the Gospel with our lives. By reflecting on love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, we can all grow in these fruits throughout our journey. To get your copy of the book visit The Word Among Us. Our second guest is Fr. Robin Ryan, CP, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. Fr. Robin, who has taught Christology for years, has developed a book to help readers connect head knowledge of Jesus with heart knowledge. His newest book, “Gazing on His Face: A Christ-Centered Spirituality,” will be available through Paulist Press later this fall. The book starts with reflecting on our friendship with Christ and uses different titles of Christ to help us get to know who Jesus is in Scripture, Tradition, and in our own lives. While waiting for his newest book, you may consider a more dense, but timely book, “God and the Mystery of Human Suffering: A Theological Conversation Across the Ages..”

Catholic Charities recently released updated statistics showing, among other things that our nine food pantries are currently serving an average of 1400 households per week. Join Marie Jochum and Guest Host Brigid Murphy as they welcome Mike Waters and Claudia Andrade to discuss how Catholic Charities regional offices are creatively working with staff, volunteers, parishes and food vendors to ensure that these increased needs are met, while following all COVID-19 safety protocols.

Host: Bob Gilligan. Segment I: Dr. Michael Boyle, new superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Joliet diocese, talks about his new role. Segment II: Matt Dietrich, spokesperson for the Illinois State Board of Elections, talks about vote-by-mail for the Nov. 3, 2020 election. Segment III: Tony Cube of the USCCB's Justice for Immigrants Campaign talks about the federal government's recent changes to DACA after losing an effort to rescind the program following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling. Segment IV: Alex Jones, co-founder and CEO of the Hallow Catholic meditation and prayer app, talks about the origin of the app and how it just reached the status of #1 Catholic app.

Sally Blount recently assumed the role of President and CEO of Catholic Charities. She visited with Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy on the Voice of Charity radio program. Two newly appointed bishops were guests on our Catholic Chicago program. First up was the new bishop of Peoria, Coadjutor Bishop Louis Tylka who talked with Fr. Greg Sakowicz, Rector of Holy Name Cathedral. Next, Fr. Greg talked with the newly-installed bishop of Belleville, Michael McGovern.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 15, 21-28, del domingo, 16 de agosto de 2020. Viernes, 14 de agosto de 2020

Host: Fr. Greg Sakowicz. The Pope has been busy appointing a few of our great priests here in the Archdiocese of Chicago to lead dioceses across the state of Illinois. Segment I: Fr. Louis Tylka is the new Coadjutor Bishop of Peoria. Segment II: Fr. Michael McGovern has become the bishop of Belleville.

We speak with Kevin Foy and Deborah Breakey from the Office of Lifelong Faith Formation about re-opening guidelines of religious education and youth ministry and the new religious education pilot. We hear about how people in parishes can support their religious education programs in this time of unprecedented need for volunteers at every level.

Sally Blount has assumed the role of President and CEO of Catholic Charities, as of August 1st. In announcing her appointment last April, Cardinal Blasé Cupich said, “With her organizational and leadership expertise, profound faith and strong commitment to social justice, she is the ideal person to lead Catholic Charities at this exciting and challenging time.” Join Marie Jochum and Guest Host Brigid Murphy as they welcome Sally to the Voice of Charity and learn what Sally’s initial insights are, about Catholic Charities and her new position.

Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi hear about a groundbreaking Catholic video game on Catholic Chicago. Fr. Lou Cameli, Cardinal Cupich’s delegate for Christian Formation and Mission, talks about coping spiritually with the pandemic, social unrest, and violence in our neighborhoods. And Dawn Fitzpatrick and Ray Pingoy talk with an old friend about an event that celebrates the legacy of Francis Cardinal George.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 14, 22-33, del domingo, 7 de agosto de 2020. Viernes, 7 de agosto de 2020

Listen to the vocation journey stories of Sr. Mary Jo Curtsinger, CSJ (www.csjoseph.org) and Sr. Maria Victoria Cutaia, OSB (www.benedictinesisters.org). Learn about the particular gifts their respective congregations offer to the people of God and how your particular gifts as someone seeking to respond to God’s call might match theirs or other congregations. Visit www.vocationmatch.com now!

The August 6, 2020 broadcast brings Deacons Richard Hudzik and Dave Brencic speaking again with Jonn Blazey and Deacon Peter Letourneau about the work of Emmaus Ministries. This is a second show exploring Emmaus, where we look at both the ecumenical faith dimension of the work and how vitally the ministry enacts all of spiritual and corporal works of mercy. This ministry, started over thirty years ago by Chicago Deacon John Green, is a ministry of presence and accompaniment to men, typically young men, who are exploited sexually. In a difficult conversation about reaching out, companioning, as well as leading men to a better lifestyle, both Jonn and Peter reflect on how even the most outcast bear the image of Christ. The discussion includes looking at who these young men are, why they are doing what they are doing and what hope there might be for them. More information about Emmaus Ministries can be found at www.streets.org.

On Today’s Fully Alive, Dawn welcomes Ray Pingoy as co-host and the two of them share a history of the Life of Karol Wojtyla, who became Pope John Paul II. This is the introduction to an unpacking of Theology of the Body, which will air in future broadcasts. In the second half of the show, they transition from St John Paul II to a discussion of the Chastity Education Initiative of the Archdiocese of Chicago, which was the inspiration of Francis Cardinal George, former Archbishop of Chicago. Dawn and Ray interview MaryLouise Hengesbaugh, former Respect Life Director under Cardinal George, and co-founder of the Chastity Education Initiative. MaryLouise discusses the upcoming “Celebration of the Life of Francis Cardinal George” which will happen virtually on Tuesday August 11th at 7PM to benefit his legacy – the Chasity Education Initiative. More information and registration for the event is available here: https://pvm.archchicago.org/celebrating-cardinal-george

Catholic Charities is proud to collaborate with The Chicago Help Initiative, formerly known as HELP (Help Ease Local Poverty) to provide assistance to anyone in need. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Jacqueline Hayes, CHI Founder, and Doug Fraser, CHI Executive Director to discuss how our agencies have been working together for the past twenty years to fulfill urgent needs of destitute individuals, and offer programs and services that can lead them to a brighter future.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Joellyn Cicciarelli, the President and Publisher of Loyola Press, talks to Fr. Greg and Mark about Wanderlight, a groundbreaking Catholic video game. Segment II: Fr. Lou Cameli, the Cardinal's Delegate for Christian Formation and Mission, joins Fr. Greg and Mark to discuss coping spiritually with the pandemic, social unrest, and violence in our neighborhoods.

Non-Violence Works discuss promoting peace in our neighborhoods on Catholic Chicago. The Voice of Charity looks to raise awareness of domestic violence with Fr. Charles Dahm and Deborah Hammond on the Voice of Charity. Award-winning author and speaker Amy “AJ” Cattapan talks with Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi about staying busy during the Covid-19 pandemic. And Fr. Greg and Mark wrap up the week with a conversation with ACTA Publications publisher, Greg Pierce.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 14, 13-21, del domingo, 2 de agosto de 2020. Viernes, 31 de julio de 2020

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Award-winning author and speaker Amy "A.J." Cattapan talks to Fr. Greg and Mark about what's keeping her busy during the COVID-19 pandemic…from helping to organize a retreat to working on another book. Segment II: Greg Pierce, publisher of ACTA Publications in Chicago, joins Fr. Greg and Mark to talk about his blog and specifically disinvestment in minority communities.

Domestic Violence is a difficult, but very important topic to discuss. Catholic Charites works with closely with the Archdiocese of Chicago to ensure that resources are available at all times for victims in need of safety, counseling, and assistance once they flee a dangerous situation. Join Marie Jochum and Guest Host Brigid Murphy as they welcome Fr. Charles Dahm and Deborah Hammond who will share details about the extensive work they have done, in parishes and throughout the area to increase greater awareness about Domestic Violence and assist victims.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Representatives of Non-Violence Works discuss the principles and practices of non-violence as a skill to help reduce violence in Chicago. Guests: Philip Bradley; Elfriede Wedam; Larry Campbell. Segment II: Fr. Dom Grassi joins Fr. Greg and Mark to discuss his blog on COVID-19, his latest mystery, and life in general.

The Catholic Conference of Illinois director Bob Gilligan leads a discussion about the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling against the Trump administration’s decision to end the DACA program. The Voice of Charity talks about Catholic Charities Health Fairs and the free health services they offer to vulnerable populations Health protocols and spiritual connections are explored on Focus on the Liturgy And Catholic Chicago co-hosts Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi bid farewell to Brother Michael Segvich.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Brother Michael Segvich joins Fr. Greg and Mark as he wraps up his time with the Archdiocese of Chicago's Office for Religious. Brother Mike is about to begin a 6-year term on his province's leadership team in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Segment II: Joyce Duriga, Editor of Chicago Catholic, talks to Fr. Greg and Mark about the stories she's been covering during COVID-19. Joyce also talks about her recently published book, Augustus Tolton: The Church is the True Liberator.

During these times we are worshiping and celebrating liturgy in ways we never had before. We have smaller assemblies, we keep distance, we disinfect, and we don’t sing. In this broadcast of Focus on the Liturgy, co-hosts Timothy Johnston (LTP) and Todd Williamson (ODW) take a look at these health protocols and discuss some of the spiritual connections that we might be able to make. How can we still be present to one another when we have to keep distance? What implications are there for our understanding of the Body of Christ when the liturgical assembly is smaller? These are the questions that Timothy and Todd discuss in this broadcast.

Catholic Charities Summer Health Fairs offer free health services to vulnerable populations. The National Association of Hispanic Nurses is one of Catholic Charities partners helping to facilitate these fairs that offer glucose tests, Back To School check-ups, and other screenings to grateful individuals and families. Join Marie Jochum and Guest Host Brigid Murphy as they welcomes Enrique Alonso and Gloria Barerra to discuss the Health Fairs planned for this year.

Host: Bob Gilligan. Segment I: Ashley Feasley, director of policy for the USCCB's Migration and Refugee Services, joins Bob to talk about the recent U.S. Supreme Court 5-4 ruling that the Trump administration's decision to end the DACA program safeguarding young undocumented immigrants from deportation was "arbitrary and capricious." Segment II: Jim Geoly, partner with the Chicago law firm of Burke, Warren, McKay and Serritella, talks about a recent U.S. Supreme Court case and its impact on religious freedom and employment discrimination. Segment III: Jim Rigg, superintendent for the Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools, talks about the recently issued guidelines for reopening Catholic schools in the fall amid the ongoing pandemic.

Catholic Schools Today gives an update on the re-opening of Catholic Schools in the Fall. The Voice of Charity pays tribute to outgoing president and CEO, Kathy Donahue. And Catholic Chicago highlights some good works being done at St. Mary of the Lake parish in Chicago’s Buena Park neighborhood.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 13, 24-43, del domingo, 19 de julio de 2020. Viernes, 17 de julio de 2020

Megan talks with Brother Charles Nuwagaba a member of the Brothers of St. Charles Lwanga, also known as the Bannakaroli Brothers. Bro. Charles is studying at Loyola University to pursue a masters in pastoral counseling. The Brothers of St. Charles minister in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. They offer ministries of education, healthcare, agricultural services, and economic development with children and marginalized communities. Bro. Charles describes how his studies impact his ministries and how COVID-19 has affected communities in East Africa. He also explains about how he has raised awareness for mission through becoming a finalist for the 2019 Opus Prize, an annual faith-based humanitarian award, and participating in the summer Mission Coop.

Host: Mark Teresi. St. Mary of the Lake Parish has opened a pop-up food pantry in collaboration with the Greater Chicago Food Depository. This food pantry serves the needs of at-risk residents of the Buena Park neighborhood, especially immigrants. St. Mary of the Lake will also be hosting a two-day event, in collaboration with the St. Vincent DePaul Society, about the merging of justice with faith. Guests: Pamela Matambanadzo; Claire DesHotels.

In 1975, Kathy Donahue joined Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, right after college. The Agency has been greatly blessed with her vision, leadership and warmth ever since. Join Guest Host Brigid Murphy on this very special edition of The Voice of Charity, as she welcomes Kathy to discuss her remarkable career, her historic year as Acting President, CEO and Administrator, and the inspiring, lasting impact she has had on the lives of countless people.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: An Update about Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools and Early Childhood Catholic Education. Guests: John Glimco; Julie Ramski. Segment II: Notre Dame College Prep's New President. Guests: Shay Boyle; Dan Tully; Leandra Juarez.

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: An Update about Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Schools and Early Childhood Catholic Education. Guests: John Glimco; Julie Ramski. Segment II: Notre Dame College Prep's New President. Guests: Shay Boyle; Dan Tully; Leandra Juarez.

Catholic Chicago hosts Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi talk with Dr. Edward Gordon, an internationally recognized historian, researcher and author. On our Lifelong Journey program, Clarissa Aljentera visits with Emily Cortina of the Kolbe House Jail Ministry. The Renew My Church initiative continues during the COVID-19 pandemic. Holy Name Cathedral Rector Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi get an update from Fr. Jason Malave, the Cardinal’s delegate to Renew My Church, Strategic Planning and Implementation. And Fr. Greg and Mark visit with Kevin Foy, the Director of the Office of Lifelong Formation.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 13, 1-23, del domingo, 12 de julio de 2020. Viernes, 10 de julio de 2020

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 13, 1-23, del domingo, 12 de julio de 2020. Viernes, 10 de julio de 2020

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Fr. Jason Malave and Cliff Barber discuss how they have been able to move forward with the Renew My Church initiative despite the COVID-19 pandemic. Segment II: Kevin Foy with the Office for Lifelong Formation talks about Catholic faith formation during the pandemic, and how his office compliments the evangelization efforts of Renew My Church.

We speak with Emily Cortina with Kolbe House Jail Ministries in Chicago. The topic revolves around accompaniment of families and individuals who are affected by incarceration.

Now in its 19th year, Catholic Charities After Supper Visions programs offers guests of our Tuesday Night Supper the opportunity to grow in their skills as photographers. Many of these guests are experiencing homelessness, and being part of After Supper Visions renews their confidence and their belief in their own abilities during difficult times. Join Guest Host Brigid Murphy as she welcomes Noreen Russo, Catholic Charities Associate Director of Board Relations and Mission Engagement to discuss innovative ASV program developments this summer.

Host: Fr. Greg Sakowicz. Dr. Edward Gordon is an internationally recognized historian, researcher, and author who has taught at DePaul, Loyola and Northwestern University. Dr. Gordon spends the hour with Fr. Greg discussing the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Voice of Charity takes a look at the long-standing relationship between Catholic Charities and Loyola University. On Fully Alive, the Office for Human Dignity and Solidarity explores appropriate responses to the times we live in. And Diakonia explores the important work of Emmaus Ministry.

The conversation continues with the Sisters of Notre Dame. Sisters Stephanie Spandl and Carol Jean Dust share their vocation stories and the SSND charism of seeking unity amidst diversity, their mission and social justice work. Sisters Stephanie and Carol Jean are part of a team who accompanies women exploring their call to religious life. Contact: [email protected] | [email protected] Visit: https://ssnd.org | https://www.sturdyroots.org/

For the July, 2020 broadcast, Deacons Richard Hudzik and Dave Brencic speak with Jonn Blazey and Deacon Peter Letourneau about the work they both do for Emmaus Ministries. Emmaus, started over thirty years ago by Chicago Deacon John Green, is a ministry of presence and accompaniment to men, typically young men, who are exploited sexually. In a difficult conversation about reaching out, companioning, as well as leading men to a better lifestyle, both Jonn and Peter reflect on how even the most outcast bear the image of Christ. The discussion includes looking at who these young men are, why they are doing what they are doing and what hope there might be for them. More information about Emmaus Ministries can be found at www.streets.org.

Dawn Fitzpatrick leads this hour with Ryan Lents as co-host in the first half to discuss the principals and practices of Nonviolence Works with Phillip Bradley and Larry Campbell, both leaders in this non-profit initiative to train communities to respond appropriately to differences and conflict. During the second half of the show, Ray Pingoy joins Dawn to discuss the 25th anniversary of St Pope John Paul II’s Evangelium Vitae and the prophetic message he had for us today.

Catholic Charities is grateful for our long-standing partnership with Loyola University. This collaboration has resulted in projects that acknowledge the evolution of Social Work into global issues, and incorporate spiritual values into the education of young adults. Join Marie Jochum and Guest Host Brigid Murphy as they welcome Dr. Maria Vidal De Haymes, and Dr. Mauricio Cifuentes, two preeminent Loyola University professors, to share updates on our recent joint initiatives and highlight the academic benefits of studying Social Work today.

Todd Williamson leads a discussion about the reopening of our churches for public Mass. St. Joseph parish in Libertyville hosts “drive-in Mass” for senior citizens and those with compromised immune systems. Dr. Mary Amore talks about what Mayslake Ministries is doing during the pandemic. And Vicki Quade hosts a virtual Christmas Bingo: Summer Edition with proceeds benefitting the Daughters of St. Paul.

Lectura y reflexión del Evangelio según San Mateo 10,37-42, del domingo, 28 de junio de 2020. Viernes, 26 de junio de 2020

Hosts: Fr. Greg Sakowicz and Mark Teresi. Segment I: Dr. Mary Amore talks about what has been happening at Mayslake Ministries during the pandemic. Segment II: Playwright and comedian Vicki Quade, co-creator of Late Night Catechism and head of Nuns for Fun Entertainment, gives news of a special Summer online performance that's available now. A portion of proceeds will go to the Daughters of St. Paul, whose religious bookstore on Michigan Avenue was heavily damaged by looters following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis. Also participating in this segment is Sr. Tracey Dugas, Director of Pauline Mission Advancement for the Daughters of St. Paul.

In this broadcast of Focus on the Liturgy, cohosts Timothy Johnston (LTP) and Todd Williamson (ODW) talk with Sr. Joyce Ann Zimmerman, CPPS about her book, “How Deep the Mystery, Meditating on the Words of the Mass,” which is published by Liturgy Training Publications of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Timothy and Todd talk with Sr. Joyce about using various texts from the Roman Missal as a source of prayer as a way to develop one’s understanding of the Mass, and as a way of developing a spirituality around the prayers of the Mass.

Child Welfare is something we take very seriously at Catholic Charities. During the pandemic, we have been especially concerned about children who are home in the midst of trying and sometimes dangerous circumstances. Join Marie Jochum as she welcomes Catholic Charities executives Laura Rios, Mary Henderson and Judy Griffin to discuss how our programs and services have continued to focus on the safety and well-being of children and families during COVID-19.