In Podcasts, The Inner Life

A Happy Death – The Inner Life – November 12, 2025

Patrick Conleyby Patrick Conley

Fr. Matthew Spencer joins Patrick to discuss A Happy Death

  • Father Spencer gives an update on the dramatic event that happened in his life?
  • (12:47) how are the sacraments instrumental in a happy death?
  • (19:55) Paul – My father had a happy death. He had a great life, and died well. He gave everything to God all the way to the end which was remarkable. You can say a lot during life and live a lot, but if you’re faith is there, and still strong, it represents a good and happy death.

(25:22) Break 1

  • What do you do about the fear of pain of death?
  • (33:18) Sal – How we live a good life and have the thought of purgatory. It’s kind of confusing. You lead a good life and do the right things and then there’s that possibility. Can you explain?
  • (37:24) Lisa – Anointing of the sick and apostolic pardon. Mother is 93 and in memory care. We did both of those earlier this year. How often can you have that done before death?

(42:52) Break 2

  • Steven – Father and his death. Not close growing up. When he died, he never seemed to have peace. I went into see him. He had a peace on his face. After the funeral, I found out dad was one of 12 kids and his dad was an alcoholic who took abuse from his father. God gives you peace in death and he had it.
  • (49:09) what are some prayers from Saint Joseph for a Happy Death?

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Patrick Conley

Patrick Conley

Patrick Conley was born, raised, and baptized in Wisconsin in a Protestant tradition. After meeting his wife, Kendra, through an Evangelical ministry at the University of Minnesota, they entered the Catholic Church in 2010. They listened to Relevant Radio, specifically The Inner Life, while preparing to enter the Church. Conley now holds a degree in theology from Oxford University and has served the Church in both academic theology and grassroots pastoral ministry. Conley teaches religion classes in a Catholic elementary school, serves as his parish Director of Religious Education, and is in formation for the permanent diaconate. He also hosts Practicing Catholic on Relevant Radio, exclusive to the Minneapolis area’s airwaves, and is a traveling presenter for the Catherine of Siena Institute apostolate. He lives in rural Wisconsin with his wife and their bulldogs, Georgie and Bingley.