In Podcasts, The Inner Life

Catholic Education – The Inner Life – January 26, 2026

Patrick Conleyby Patrick Conley

Fr. Bobby Blood joins Patrick to discussCatholic Education

  • Why is Catholic schools week important?
  • (4:46) what does the Church teach about Catholic education?
  • What is the connection between the intellect and the will?
  • (17:35) Nicole – My experience….My grandchildren are going to Catholic school. My daughter also went. I used to volunteer. I most admire is that I attend the children’s Mass and we end with adoration. Getting used to adoration and the importance of a relationship with Jesus.

(22:00) Break 1

  • (23:25) Ann – I had Catholic education back in the 40’s and 50’s. I thank God for it every day. Those nuns really instilled the faith.
  • (26:15) Tammy – I am a product of Catholic schools from the 70’s and 80’s. I have 4 kids. One struggled academically. Just wondering if the school system is looking into this. Not everyone is academic. Do they have other avenues to help people?
  • (31:50) Carol – Our Catholic school closed 7 years ago. Wanted to re-open, but I get backlash every time it comes up. Any advice?

(35:43) Break 2

  • What should parents be looking for in Catholic Schools?
  • (40:24) Alex – I’m dating someone right now. Trying to figure out where to educate my kids once we have them. There is a local SSPX school. It looks like it’s the only place I can afford to send them. What should I do about that?
  • Can you send your kids to a non-Catholic school?
  • (44:17) what are the biggest challenges facing Catholic schools today?
  • (48:03) Maria – We’ve been blessed with our kid’s education. Just wanted to give a quick testimony.

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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.