Catechesis

William Albrecht on the Biblical Source of the Papacy

Have you ever been told, “The institution of the papacy isn’t found in the Bible”? In a recent Morning Air episode, William Albrecht walks listeners through the scriptural foundation of the papacy, drawing deeply from both the Bible and the Early Church Fathers. The conversation begins with a Gospel passage: Matthew 16:16–19. Jesus gives Simon...Continue reading→

St. Peter statue at St. Peter's Basilica in Rome

What does it mean that the Pope is the “Vicar of Christ”?

Ever heard someone refer to the Pope as the Vicar of Christ and wondered what it meant? On The Patrick Madrid Show, Patrick offered a clear, Scripture-packed explanation that brings deep insight into this ancient title. The term comes from the Latin word vicarius, meaning one who stands in place of another, like a steward,...Continue reading→

What are the different types of cardinals?

With the Church preparing for a new conclave, Norbert from Wisconsin Rapids called in to The Patrick Madrid Show asking for clarity on a timely topic: What’s the difference between a Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest, and Cardinal Deacon? Patrick delivered a clear breakdown. 1. Cardinal Bishops – The Senior Statesmen These are the most senior...Continue reading→

Who Can Be Elected Pope?

As the Church mourns the passing of Pope Francis, attention will soon begin to turn toward what comes next: the conclave, where the 267th successor of St. Peter will be elected. On The Patrick Madrid Show, Patrick walked listeners through an important question: Who is eligible to be elected Pope? According to Canon Law...Continue reading→

Sunday Gospel Reflection: How Should I Treat My Enemies?

Gospel – February 23, 2025 Jesus said to his disciples: “To you who hear I say, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. To the person who strikes you on one cheek, offer the other one as well, and from the...Continue reading→

Jumping Through Hoops or Following Jesus?

Recently on The Patrick Madrid Show, Patrick received a call from a listener named Joseph who requested an explanation of why Catholics are required to go to confession and follow the rules of the Church to remain in the state of grace. Joseph argued that God is not limited by our shortcomings and His mercy...Continue reading→

Good Help: The Story of Our Lady of Champion

October 9th marks the Feast of Our Lady of Champion, the title given to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the national shrine in Champion, Wisconsin after her miraculous protection of that land during great fires surrounding the area in the 19th century. In October of 1859, a Belgian woman by the name of Adele Brise...Continue reading→

2025 Holy Days of Obligation and Solemnities

While some feast days and holidays don’t change their dates year to year, the Liturgical Calendar of the Catholic Church often rotates depending on the dates of other events. So, to help you keep track of the changes coming next year, we’ve compiled this list of Holy Days of Obligation, Liturgical Seasons, solemnities, and special...Continue reading→

“I Promised My Sister I’d Scatter Her Ashes – What Should I Do Now?”(Father Simon Says)

Cynthia from Chicago called in with a real-life moral dilemma: her late sister asked for her ashes to be scattered in the ocean, but Cynthia’s pastor said, “Nope, can’t do it.” Cue the Catholic teaching moment! 📚 Here’s Fr. Simon’s response! The Church’s Teaching: We believe in the sacredness of the body: it’s not just...Continue reading→

The Sacred Importance of Holy Oil in the Catholic Church

Holy oil holds a profound place in Catholic tradition, serving as a sacred element in various sacraments to bless, heal, ordain, baptize, and confirm. The Catholic Church employs holy oil as a tangible sign of God’s grace and presence in the lives of the faithful. In the Catholic Church, three types of holy oils are...Continue reading→

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