Conquering Pride – The Inner Life – January 13, 2026

Fr. Joseph Johnson joins Patrick to discuss Conquering Pride

  • (3:13) Why is pride at the root of all sin?
  • The subtlety of pride
  • (14:16) Valerie – At OCIA…one of the ladies I was with is very humble and I told her that. I think if you’re humble, you’re void of pride.

(21:09) Break 1

  • Email from Jared – How do we know when pride becomes a mortal sin?
  • What are some tips for recognizing pride in our life?
  • (27:45) Tom – I have a nephew who is a Jesuit. He is such an example of gentleness and a quiet example of humility. It speaks louder than any preaching others do.
  • Noah – I make decent money and I’m looking forward to moving to my previous job where I was happy. I think I was just a little too prideful on being a high earner instead of being humble. Looking for some guidance with this on what to do. Should I stay where I’m at or go where I’m happy?
  • (34:16) Email – how does gratitude fight pride?

(36:36) Break 2

  • How does trust help us to grow in humility?
  • (41:56) Nick – I’ve learned that life is a battle…no winning/no losing. I know I have a fight. Even though I think I’m a good Catholic, it’s still a fight. I still have to fight to fight.
  • Greg – When I read the bible, things that have a message to be shared, but never get a chance to do that. Not that I have pride, but it’s something to be talked about.
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.