Shows
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLST NICHOLAS & THE 17OOTH ANNIVERSARY OF NICAEA2025 marks the 1700th year since the first Ecumenical Council of the Catholic Church. Fr. Bill discusses its place in history, and as a context to the life of St. Nicholas of Myra, the inspiration for Santa Clause and the icon of the Holy Advent-Christmas Season.
2025-12-0617 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLIGNORANCE OF HISTORY LEADS TO CATASTROPHEFr. Bill discusses how an Ignorance of History has led to the divisions we see today in the Nation and in the Church, illustrating the dire consequences that result from a willing and often coerced ignorance of History, of the Nation, of the Church, of the Mass, even of the Scriptures themselves, and how such ignorance has led to the sharp divisions that result in the violence we are seeing in current events. Fr. Bill also suggests how growing in our knowledge of History, and with the use of modern means of communication, we can take the initiative, for...
2025-09-1938 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLLESSER OF TWO EVILS? - The Holy Father and Election 2024Pope Francis stated that American Voters must choose the Lesser of Two Evils in Election 2024. Fr. Bill addresses the comment, the sentiment that inspires it, and what we are called to as Christian Americans when Voting.
2024-11-0122 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLFREEDOM OF RELIGION IS FREEDOM OF THOUGHTFr. Bill returns to the issue of Freedom of Religion, accentuating its importance to all other basic freedoms.
2024-10-2526 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLFAITH & SCIENCE - Is There Really a ConflictFor the Feast Day of St. Luke, who was a physician, Fr. Bill dives into the complimentary relationship between Faith and Science, debunking the modern myth that they are opposed to one another. Fr. Bill describes why and how Faith leads to Science and why proper Science, inevitably leads back to faith.
2024-10-1837 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLPOPE ST. JOHN XXIII - THE GREAT?Catholics throughout the world were excited with the canonization of John Paul II as a Saint, many calling for his designation as "The Great". Fr. Bill discusses the "overlooked Pope" canonized the same day. What was the legacy of Pope St. John XXIII, and, perhaps, should he also be considered among "The Great" among Popes?
2024-10-1137 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLELECTION 2024 & THE NATION'S FOUNDING - Thomas Paine's "Common Sense"Fr. Bill has decided to read the Federalist Papers beginning October 1. In preparation he is reading through "Common Sense" by Thomas Paine, written to present an argument in favor of the Revolution against English rule.
Fr. Bill takes points of Paine's work and discusses how "Common Sense" is still relevant to what the nation is experiencing now in the midst of the current election cycle.
2024-09-2727 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLELECTION RHETORIC & the US CONSTITUTION - How do they Match UP?During Election Seasons there is a lot of soaring rhetoric by candidates for office, some hopefully, some doomsaying, some declaring what the candidate will or will not do if elected. Fr. Bill addresses some of the rhetoric and matches it against what is directed in the Constitution of the United States.
2024-09-0632 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLMOCKING GOD AT THE OLYMPICS - My Thoughts, Now that it's OverNow that the Olympics has concluded, Fr. Bill offers his thoughts on the controversy during the Opening Ceremony.
2024-08-2319 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLSEPARATION OF CHURCH & STATE - AMERICAN STYLEFr. Bill discusses the Western Political principle of the Separation of Church and State in light of Catholic Saints like Stephen of Hungary and the Gospel reading that is shared on the occasion of his Feast Day. Fr. Bill applies the example of St. Stephen to Modern Political Leaders who profess a Catholic Faith in a society that exercises the Separation of Church and State while also enjoying Freedom of Religion.
2024-08-1623 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCHRISTIAN READING - Fr. Bill's RecommendationsFr. Bill presents a handful of recommendations from Catholic History. Recommendations include the writings of such Church Fathers as Ignatius of Sts. Antioch, Polycarp of Smyrna, Justin Martyr, Augustine, Benedict as well as the works of St. John of the Cross, Theresa of Avila and Thomas Merton.
2024-08-0926 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLDEEPENING YOUR CHRISTIAN FAITH - The Conversion of St. Ignatius of LoyolaSt. Ignatius of Loyola experienced a conversion as a result of reading a work of Catholic Literature. Fr. Bill discusses the Treasure Trove of Literature that has emerged from the History of the Catholic Faith and how reading these works can help deepen our faith and, like St. Ignatius, lead to a deeper and more substantial understanding of that faith.
2024-08-0226 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLD-Day + 80 Years!Fr. Bill reflects on the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings during World War II.
2024-06-0717 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLHARRISON BUTKER'S ALMOST PERFECT SPEECH - One Fatal FlawHarrison Butker of the Kansas City Chiefs spoke at the commencement ceremony of Benedictine College. Responses have been mixed, and strong. Fr. Bill gives his take on what was said and the flaw that betrays a serious issue within the Catholic Church, that can potentially ruin the credibility of the rest of his speech.
2024-05-2430 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILL"THE LUSTY MONTH OF MAY" - Observing a Month Dedicated to MaryFr. Bill talks about May as the Month dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, as well as possible origins to the observance and lessons we can draw for evangelization in our Modern World.
2024-05-1716 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLIS "SEPARATION OF CHURCH & STATE" IN THE BIBLE?Post-Enlightenment Political Philosophers pushed the Separation of Church and State. The Founding of the United States enshrines a more evolved understanding of this Political Principle. Fr. Bill talks about the difference, and how the United States understanding of this Principle is actually expressed in the Bible.
2024-05-1025 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCONFIRMATION - The New NameOne of the traditions of celebrating and receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation is the choosing of a "Confirmation Name". Fr. Bill discusses the practice of choosing a name, how to choose, the importance of the name, and the clumsy practices surrounding it, especially as the Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated.
2024-05-0324 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTOTAL ECLIPSE - A "Spiritual" ExperienceMany news reporters and spectators described the Total Solar Eclipse of April 8, 2024 as a "Spiritual" Experience.
Fr. Bill breaks down what this reflects in the overall spirituality and religiosity of the nation, as well as how the image of a Solar Eclipse fits into the symbolism and spirituality of Christianity.
2024-04-1224 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLMAKING HOLY WEEK COUNTHoly Week wraps up the Season of Lent. Fr. Bill talks about the events that happen and the feasts that are celebrated leading up to Easter Sunday and the 50 days of the Easter Season.
2024-03-2227 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLLENTEN RESURRECTION - Our Encounter with the Risen JesusLent inevitably ends with the 50-day celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus. Fr. Bill talks about how the Resurrection is presented in the Gospels, what patterns they follow, what themes they present, and how we can encounter the Risen Jesus continually as His Followers.
2024-03-1527 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLLENTEN FORGIVENESS - A Mandate, Not a SuggestionJesus does not suggest forgiveness, He requires it of His followers. Fr. Bill discuses the many angles and layers of forgiveness, what is at stake, and what should motivate us to obey that command from Jesus.
2024-03-0827 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLLENTEN TEMPTATION - The Strain of Spiritual ExerciseWith sacrifice comes Temptation. Fr. Bill talks about how we invite Temptation as an essential part of Lent and how resisting Temptation benefits us Spiritually.
2024-03-0132 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLLENTEN SACRIFICE - Offering God's Gifts Back to GodLent always includes some element of Sacrifice. Fr. Bill talks about what practices accompany the observance of Lent, what they accomplish and why they are important.
2024-02-2328 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLLENT: 40 DAYS IN THE DESERT - The Spirituality of the DesertFr. Bill talks about "Desert Spirituality", its grounding in Holy Scripture, and how it fits into the annual observance of Lent.
2024-02-1624 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLPOPE FRANCIS IS NOT THE PROBLEM - The Reaction to the Pastoral Meaning of BlessingsHeads exploded on Social Media last week when the Vatican issued its new Declaration On the Pastoral Meaning of Blessings. Fr. Bill refrained from participating in the commentary, until now. His take on the Declaration is a little different than what has been widespread on Social Media as he shares his Reaction to the Reaction.
2023-12-2944 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCHRISTMAS OR THE POPE? - What Should I Talk About?Fr. Bill discusses whether it is more important to talk about the Pope's comments on "blessings" or on the up-and-coming celebration of the Incarnation of Christ.
2023-12-2218 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLRETHINKING ADVENT & CHRISTMASCatholics run parallel "Christmas Seasons" this time of year. One is the American Christmas/Holiday Season that runs from Thanksgiving to the New Year. The other is the Christian Advent/Christmas Season.
Fr. Bill talks about the distinction between the two and how both can be observed each without losing sight of the other; but it takes a minor effort, and might require a little change.
2023-12-0128 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLNOT A DAY TO BE "THANKFUL" - A Day of ThanksGIVINGFr. Bill addresses a common practice on Thanksgiving Day and how it undermines the true nature of the holiday.
2023-11-1711 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLPOPE LEO THE GREAT & THE MODERN PAPACYNovember 10 is the Feast Day of Pope St. Leo I (the Great). Fr. Bill talks about his life and how he shaped the Papacy as we know it.
2023-11-1021 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCAN THERE BE FAITH & ETHICS IN POLITICS? - The New Speaker of the House, Mike JohnsonThe new Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, is coming under fire for publicly professing his Christian Faith, and in giving no indication that he is a corrupt politician.
Fr. Bill discusses why this is so scandalous in today's cultural climate, and why it is a good sign when someone, even in political leadership, goes against the secular, atheistic cultural grain.
2023-11-0315 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLDEMONS & POSSESSION - Halloween and the Problem of EvilEach year there are groups who express concern that Halloween is a time of the glorification of evil, witchcraft, death and the occult.
Fr. Bill talks about what is behind the idea of evil and demonic possession and how the Halloween detractors actually give the devil more of a due than is nsecessary, and actually aid the devil more in their opposition to the celebration of All Hallows Eve.
2023-10-2732 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTHE WAR IN THE MIDDLE EAST - The Conflict Between Israel & HamasWith the recent outbreak of war between Israel and Palestine, Fr. Bill offers a Biblical and Historical context in which the current event is being played out.
How can we understand the war in light of the Biblical as well as "secular" History of that region, in light of Jesus' farewell promise of Peace, well as in light of the Promise God made that All Nations would find Blessing in the descendants of Abraham who make up the kingdom, and subsequent Nation of Israel?
2023-10-1326 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTHOUGHTS ON THE SYNOD ON "SYNODALITY"Fr. Bill offers his thoughts on the Synod going on in the Vatican during the coming weeks and gives his response to the many comments and concerns that are being made about it.
2023-10-0632 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLSLAVERY, CHRISTIANITY & THE UNITED STATES - Anniversary of the Emancipation ProclamationSeptember 22 is the anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, declared by Abraham Lincoln in 1862.
Fr. Bill discusses the history of Slavery, how the Bible addresses the issue, its history in Christian Europe and in the Founding of the United States. He threads the needle leading up to the Civil War and Lincoln's Proclamation, and how the Constitution of the United States did not endorse Slavery, but brought forth everything from the History of Western Europe up to that point to direct the new Nation towards eventual Emancipation.
2023-09-2244 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILL9/11, FAITH & PATRIOTISM - From Darkness to Light in Our National RemembranceFor 22 Years we have been remembering the Terrorist Attack on the anniversary of 9/11. But it is not simply one day we should be remembering. Three days later, on September 14, President Bush called for a National Day of Mourning and Prayer in the aftermath of the attack.
Listen as Fr. Bill talks about the importance of that Day of Prayer, September 14; what is celebrated in the Catholic Church, what should be remembered as a Nation, and how it all ties into what we remember in the Anniversary and Aftermath of the 9/11 Attack, and what we...
2023-09-1516 minFAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWecome Back -- New Season & New LocationFr. Bill is back to his Podcast with what he hopes will be interesting and relevant topics regardinig Faith, Hope & History
2023-09-0905 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLSTOP PRAYING FOR VOCATIONS!! - Good Shepherd SundayFr. Bill addresses the shortage of Vocations to the Priesthood and Religious Life in the Catholic Church. He proposes a shocking reason why he thinks God has been answering our prayers all along, and what Catholics can do to stem the tide of the decline so as to ensure a future increase in vocations.
2023-04-3024 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLDEFENDING OUR FIRST FREEDOM - Freedom of ReligionFr. Bill talks about Freedom of Religion, what it means, how it is protected in our Constitution, how it is threatened and what we must do to protect it against the assault it faces today.
2023-04-1434 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLHOLLYWOOD INCLUSIVITY - They Can Do It Without Help (and they have!)Fr. Bill talks about the recent Academy Awards, as well as the history of the Awards as a Hollywood institution. He talks about how Hollywood has grown in its own "inclusivity" over time, how it has forgotten it's natural progress, and why it does not need the pushing of the "WOKE" movement to continue its development as a truly worldwide cinematic institution that has grown beyond Hollywood.
2023-03-1731 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLComments on the EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL in the United States Catholic ChurchFr. Bill offers his thoughts and comments on his hopes, and skepticisms of the Eucharistic Revival currently being conducted throughout the Catholic Church in the United States.
2023-03-1032 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLABORTION VS. SLAVERY - How Are They Similar? Should Either Be Protected in America?Fr. Bill makes a comparison to the issues of Abortion and Slavery, and the Supreme Court decisions that dealt with both. He shows how the two issues have more in common than not and how the United States in dealing with both issues must struggle with what it means to be a Christian, but also an American.
2023-01-2133 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWHAT DO THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE CATHOLIC CHURCH HAVE IN COMMON?Fr. Bill reviews the recent divisions within the Catholic Church as well as the recent, elongated, election of the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives and discusses how the dynamic of both is more similar than we realize, and how such a dynamic is, in fact, beneficial for both the Leadership of the Catholic Church, and the Governance of the United States.
2023-01-1419 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCHRISTMAS OCTAVE - What Do We Observe in the Week Following Christmas?What is celebrated in the days immediately following Christmas?
Fr. Bill discusses the wide array of people and themes that are celebrated, observed and reflected upon in the days following the Feast of the Incarnation; showing that the Catholic Faith does not rest simply on remembering a newborn baby, but celebrates a wide range, from Martyrdom, Mysticism, Theology, History, Compassion for the Vulnerable, Tragedy of the Weak and the Defense of the Freedom of Religion and the Church.
2022-12-3032 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLFr. Bill's Christmas DAY MessageThe Four Masses Celebrated for Christmas offers four different Scriptural perspectives on the Incarnation, the Birth of Christ. Fr. Bill talks about the need for new perspectives on Christmas in order to get us back to the Old Basics.
2022-12-2510 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLFr. Bill's Christmas MIDNIGHT MessageJesus is a light shining in the darkness, but what is the darkness into which He shines.
Fr. Bill preaches his Midnight Mass message of the darknesses experienced by people and how Jesus pierces that darkness to bring about a happy ending.
2022-12-2513 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLFr. Bill's Christmas EVE MessageFr. Bill shares thoughts on the reading of the Genealogy of Jesus that is ready during the Christmas Vigil Mass and its importance for understanding the true meaning of Christmas.
2022-12-2412 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCHRISTMAS IS A NATIONAL RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYFr. Bill returns to his podcast to talk about Christmas not only as a secular observance, but one in which even atheists give a nod to the birth of Jesus just by virtue of celebrating Christmas (however they do it). Christmas is also a national reminder of our "First Freedom" as Americans -- which is not the Freedom of Speech (at best, that is the Second Freedom).
2022-12-2315 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLVETERANS DAY, ST. MARTIN OF TOURS & ELECTION 2022Fr. Bill threads the needle between the observance of Veterans Day, the Feast Day of St. Martin of Tours (celebrated on the same day) and the results of Election 2022. He draws upon history, even recent history to find a purpose in the direction our country is headed in light of the results of the 2022 Election, the sacrifice of our Veterans, and the example of such Saints as Martin, William of Gellone and other Saints who were Military Veterans.
2022-11-1245 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLAN END OF DEMOCRACY? -- The U.S. Constitution and the 2022 Mid-term ElectionThe 2022 Mid-Term Election is upon us.
Fr. Bill discusses the campaign rhetoric that has been used during this election cycle, particularly regarding the perceived threats to the future of Democracy in the United States - and how the United States Constitution was originally set up by the Founding Fathers to deal with, and prevent, any threat to the democratic process in this country so as to protect, not just democracy, but the Freedom of its citizens from the threat of a tyrannical governing body.
2022-11-0535 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLHALLOWEEN - Is it a Celebration of the Devil?Fr. Bill discusses the "Spirit" behind Halloween, regardless of multiple origins from which it emerged and counters the popular notion that it is a Pagan feast celebrating Death, Evil and the Devil
2022-10-2928 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLMINIMALISM TO SUBSTANCE - Growing Meat on your Catholic BonesFr. Bill presents three of his recent homilies that build upon the theme of doing more than just the minimum. Drawing upon the parables of the Corrupt Steward, the Corrupt Judge/Persistent Widow and the Miracle of the Ten Lepers, Fr. Bill talks about three ways in which we can go above and beyond the minimum when it comes especially to prayer and worship, but also in how we live and act as Christian people in an increasingly secular world.
2022-10-2143 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCATHOLIC ASSAULT WEAPON - The Rosary, the Battle of Lepanto and the Power of Catholic PrayerLast August an Op-Ed in the Atlantic declared the Rosary to be a symbol of Christian Nationalism and White Supremacy. Fr. Bill discusses how the Rosary is in fact comparable to a weapon and how the Anniversary of the Battle of Lepanto demonstrates this to be true - but not the kind of weapon one would expect. He further discusses the importance and Power of Prayer and why the Atlantic author reflects a great fear many have for the Catholici Power of Prayer.
2022-10-0719 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLOUR NATION FOUNDED ON LIBERTY NOT SLAVERY - The U.S. Constitution and the Momentum Toward EmancipationPopular sentiment claims that the United States was founded on Slavery. In honor of the 160th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation (9/22/1862), Fr. Bill disputes the claim that the natin was built on Slavery, and talks about how the United States Constitution reflects a momentum at the birth of our nation not towards Slavery, but towards Emancipation. In demonstrating this Fr. Bill quotes from the Constitution, itself, showing where, and how, the founding of our Nation was spelled the ultimate doom of Slavery and the catalyst that ultimately and inevitably led to Emancipation.
2022-09-2338 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTHE OLDEST CATHOLIC TRADITION - Sts. Cornelius and CyprianThe Catholic Church has always experienced divisions. Today among these divisions are between those who like to promote themselves as "traditional" Catholics.
Fr. Bill discusses one of the many aspects of true Church Tradition, how the so-called "traditional" Catholics measure up, and how Sts. Cornelius and Cyprian, who share a Feast Day today (September 16), emulate one of the Oldest and Truest Catholic Traditions.
2022-09-1626 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTHE DEATH OF QUEEN ELIZABETH IIFr. Bill begins his new season of podcasts talking about the death of Queen Elizabeth II. He also briefly reviews the highlights of the history of the English Monarchy, including some of the more notable and notorious kings and queens that have reigned over Great Britain.
2022-09-0922 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCATHOLIC TRADITION of ECUMENICAL COUNCILS - More than Just Vatican IINot many Christians, including Catholics, know that there is a rich history in the Catholic Church of the Ecumenical Council. For many, the only Council they are aware of is Vatican II (and maybe, by conclusion, Vatican I), but little is known about the dynamic and charism of the Council in the history and function of the Catholic Church.
Fr. Bill discusses this history of the Councils, what they were, when they were held, what they discussed, their impact on the Catholic Faith and Tradition, and how the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) fits into that rich C...
2022-05-2047 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLSHEPHERDING THROUGH ROE V. WADE - Being Good Shepherds in a Culture of DeathFr. Bill gives his weekly homily on the Good Shepherd in light of the leaked opinion regarding the Supreme Court's ruling on Abortion.
2022-05-0812 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLFREE SPEECH is NOT Our FIRST FREEDOM!! -- There is a Constitutional Freedom Even Greater and More ImportantWith the news regarding the sale of Twitter, there has been much discussion on the nature of the Freedom of Speech in the United States. Fr. Bill discusses the importance of Free Speech, but also talks about another Freedom, in the Bill of Rights, more important than Free Speech, without which we will never enjoy freedom and Democratic Dominance over our Governmental Systems.
2022-04-2922 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLGOOD FRIDAY IS CORONATION DAY!Fr. Bill talks about Good Friday from the perspective of the Gospel of John, who sets up the Passion of Jesus very much as the Coronation of the King of Glory. Listen as Fr. Bill describes why this is so, prepares us to hear the Passion According to John in the Liturgy of the Lord's Passion, and offers a final reflection on the importance of Jesus' Crucifixion.
2022-04-1535 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWHEN THE ACADEMY AWARDS (and Hollywood movies) WERE GREATFr. Bill comments on the history of the Academy Awards and the legendary films that Hollywood used to produce, manifested on those films that won the award for Best Picture.
Reviewing some of the great films that have been Awarded Best Picture, Fr. Bill by the Academy, Fr. Bill reflects on the greatest films and the greatest era of both Hollywood and the Academy Awards, compared to the obvious decline of both in the past decade.
2022-04-0832 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLHOW IS THE OLD TESTAMENT HISTORICAL? -- Is the Bible History or Not?Some insist that the Bible is an accurate historical account. Others claim it is only Mythology. Fr. Bill discusses how it is both, why it is both and to what purpose it serves as a "historical" for the ancient Kingdom of Israel, as well as to people of faith today.
2022-03-0435 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWARS & PESTILENCE - Is the End Near?The Russian invasion of Ukraine comes on the heels of the Covid Pandemic around the World, and of Civil Unrest, inflation and Economic Uncertainty in the US. Some would insist that it is the sign that the End is coming.
Fr. Bill discusses the words of Jesus regarding Wars, Pestilence and the End of the World and how Catholics are called to react to events that are being reported from home and throughout the World
2022-02-2521 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLEND OF THE PANDEMIC - Reason vs. EmotionAs eager as people were to mask up and get vaxed at the height of the pandemic because "we were all going to die" if we didn't. How eager are people now to move on, maskless and unafraid, now that the Pandemic is beginning to wane?
Fr. Bill reflects upon the experience of the Covid Pandemic and what we could and should expect from people as the world begins to return to normal.
2022-02-1826 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCATHOLIC SCHOOLS - A Legacy to be Proud OfThe Last week of January is celebrated annually as Catholic Schools Week.
Fr. Bill talks about the Legacy of the Catholic School System, especially in the United States, what makes it great, what challenges it faces, and why it should be kept going for future generations in this country.
2022-02-0422 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLREACTIONS - How Do People Respond to the Church?Jesus' debut in Nazareth was somewhat less than successful.
Fr Bill discusses the ways in which the people of Jesus' home-town reacted to his teaching and how the Catholics, Christians and anyone of any traditional value system experience and deal with multiple reactions to their presence and assertions in society.
2022-01-2822 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLRELIGION, POLITICS & THE "CANCEL CULTURE" - St. Thomas BecketThe life and martyrdom of St. Thomas Becket shows that Religion has a clear place in politics, whether we want it to or not.
Fr. Bill discusses the life of Becket and how he defied the conventional separation of Religion and Politics, and even became the victim of a "Cancel Culture."
2021-12-2905 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLSCHOOL BOARDS, ABORTION and the HOLY INNOCENTSThe Feast of the Holy Innocents follows the Celebration of Christmas and remembers the death of the infants slaughtered by King Herod following the Birth of Jesus.
Fr. Bill talks about how the Slaughter of the Innocents parallels another Biblical slaughter, and how it is repeated today in the drive for a more secular progressive post-Christian society.
2021-12-2915 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCHRISTMAS - The Unstoppable Celebration of FreedomChristmas celebrates the Birth of Christ, but it also celebrates that "The Lord has come this people and set them free!" It is a great celebration of Freedom that is perfectly combatable with our culture and founding as Free Americans of the United States.
Fr. Bill talks about how this is so and wishes everyone the best of the season.
2021-12-2425 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCAN THE SUPREME COURT "OUTLAW" ABORTION?Many people see the Supreme Court of the United States as the Supreme Authority of the Country.
Fr. Bill discusses the role and authority of the Supreme Court in relation to the other two Branches of the Federal Government, as well as in relation to the Governments of the individual States, particularly in light of the recent arguments before it over the Mississippi Abortion Law. He talks about historical decisions made by the court and how it relates to its role in our nation today
2021-12-1025 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLABORTION, THE SUPREME COURT & A QUESTION OF "RIGHTS"Americans love to talk about their "rights".
Fr. Bill talks about the nature of "Rights" as expressed in the Declaration of Independence of the United States and how the assertion of "rights" that people make today fits, or does not fit, into that dynamic that is at the center of America's founding and continued prosperity.
2021-12-0329 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTHE GETTYSBURG ADDRESS - How President Lincoln Speaks to us 158 Years LaterNovember 19, 2021 is the 158th Anniversary of the Gettysburg Address
Fr. Bill talks about the Legacy of Lincoln's Speech and how it continues to speak to our Nation, and give us hope in the present crisis.
2021-11-1919 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWHAT DOES THE RITTENHOUSE TRIAL TELL US ABOUT THE STATE OF AMERICA?The Trial of Kyle Rittenhouse has captured the attention of America.
Fr. Bill discusses the trial, not in terms of innocence or guilt, but in terms of what everything about the trial - what led up to it, what it is about, how it has been conducted by the participants, what the media and politicians have sad about it - ultimately says about the state of America and the attitudes that have become prevalent among the People.
2021-11-1228 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTHE END OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH! - The Worst Crisis Ever!Many Catholics are critical of Pope Francis and other Bishops for not calling out Catholic politicians who are in favor of abortion. Some have called Pope Francis a "false Pope", an "anti-Pope" and even "Satan's Pope". Some say that the Church is in a crisis from which it may never recover.
Fr. Bill talks about another crisis from Church history and puts the current issues into the proper perspective of the Church's checkered, but triumphant past.
2021-11-0526 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLSHOULD CHRISTIANS CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN?Is Halloween a celebration of Death and Evil, or a manifestation of Christian confidence against evil? Fr. Bill talks about Halloween and the subsequent Feast Days of All Saints and All Souls.
2021-10-2921 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTO VAX OR NOT TO VAXFr. Bill addresses the controversy over Covid Vaccinations. He talks about the issue of "Forced" Vaccinations, and addresses the ethical questions people raise with regard to taking the Vaccine.
(note - Fr. Bill is NOT speaking as an official spokesperson of the Catholic Church. Rather, he speaks as a pastoral minister who has had to address this in discussions with those who have approached him for advice and guidance.)
2021-10-1527 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLBATTLE OF LEPANTO AND THE ROSARY - 450 Years LaterThe Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary (October 7) commemorates the victory of the Catholic League over the Ottoman Empire in the Naval Battle of Lepanto.
Fr. Bill discusses the history of the Battle and why it's lessons are still important for the Church today as it continues to pray the Rosary as an important and popular devotion.
2021-10-0821 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILL9/11 and the STAR SPANGLED BANNERThree days after the attacks on 9/11, President George W. Bush called on the nation to observe a National Day of Prayer. In addition to that day (9/14) being the Catholic Feast of the Triumph of the Cross of Christ, it is also the anniversary of the triumph after the Siege of Fort McHenry, outside Baltimore, Maryland.
Join Fr. Bill as he discusses and relates the events of 9/11 with that important and overlooked anniversary.
2021-09-1710 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLSEPTEMBER 11, 2021 - Twenty Years after 9/11Fr. Bill offers thoughts and reflections on the 20th Anniversary of the 9/11 Terrorist Attack on the United States.
2021-09-1120 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCATHEDRALS, MONUMENTS & FRIENDS - Fr. Bill Returns from VacationFr. Bill gives a few comments on the places he visited during his annual road trip through the United States
2021-09-0316 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWHEN PEOPLE LEAVE THE CATHOLIC CHURCH - The First Controversial Teaching that Drove People AwayMany people, Catholic and Non-Catholic, object to certain teachings of the Catholic Church. This is nothing new. Fr. Bill talks about the up and coming readings of the Sunday Mass, what Jesus taught and how His audience responded. Fr. Bill then compares it to the objections to current teachings of the Church, the demand of some people that the Church change its teachings, and the penchant for Catholics to leave the Church over them.
2021-07-3014 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLLATIN MASS & POPE FRANCIS - Comments on the Pope's New DirectivePope Francis has rolled back Pope Benedict XVI's allowance for greater access to the Traditional Latin Mass. Some are saddened, some confused, some indifferent.
Fr. Bill discusses the issue, and how the Traditional Latin and Novus Ordo Masses relate to the other Rites of the Catholics Church.
2021-07-2340 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLAS BAD AS THE CIVIL WAR!! - Irritating Historical Comparisons and What They MeanFr. Bill addresses the habit of many public officials and media figures to compare current issues to Historical Events, Figures and Institutions, encouraging his listeners to respond, not to the extreme Rhetoric and inappropriate Hyperbole, but as a call to actually learn the history that is being invoked in the comparison.
2021-07-1621 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLJUNETEENTH, SLAVERY & the 4TH OF JULYWithout Independence Day there would be no Juneteenth to celebrate.
Fr. Bill discusses the history of Independence Day and the Founding of our Nation in light of the new National Holiday of Juneteenth. He also discusses the fallacies of current accusations of our Nation's Founding, how that Founding ensured the Abolition of Slavery, how Juneteenth at long last acknowledges that this is a Nation that Abolished Slavery, and therefore how there would be nothing to celebrate on Juneteenth without the National Founding we celebrate on July 4th.
2021-07-0919 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLKEEP POLITICS (AND POLITICIANS) OUT OF RELIGION!! - Democrats, the U.S. Catholic Bishops and the Issue of Abortion and Holy CommunionCatholic Democrat members of Congress wrote a letter to the United States Catholic Bishops urging the bishops to refrain from asserting Catholic teaching regarding the Sanctity of Human Life, the Absolute Evil of Abortion, the Advocacy of Abortion by Catholics in Public Life and their Worthiness to Receive in Communion the Holy Body and Blood of Christ.
Fr. Bill talks about the various issues surrounding the letter, how it violates the cherished doctrine of Separation of Church and State, and how the Paulicians who signed it are digging themselves deeper into a moral hole that further threatens...
2021-06-2530 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLDON'T WASTE THE YEAR OF ST. JOSEPH! - Father's Day in a Year Dedicated to Jesus' DadHoly Years of the past declared and dedicated by the Holy Fathers, from John Paul II to Francis, have in many ways been lost, in some cases wasted opportunities for the Church. The Year of St. Joseph is another opportunity for the Church to preach and promote values associated with the earthly Father of Jesus in ways that can truly uplift and intently challenge our world today.
Fr. Bill talks about the lost opportunities of the past Holy Years and the great opportunity given to the Church in the Year of St. Joseph, and how Father's Day c...
2021-06-1825 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCATHOLIC SCANDALS!!! - Here We Go Again!The Catholic Church is still reeling and recovering from a series of scandals involving some of its priests and bishops. The Church has also done a great deal to address them within its own ranks.
There are, however, those who would do nothing but remind the Church of its checkered past, ignoring the rapid and revolutionary strides it has taken to ensure avoidance of scandal in the future, atonement for it sins, and the future protection of all people of all ages.
Jesus also had something to say on the topic and the angle He t...
2021-06-1124 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCONFRONTING MODERN PAGANISM - St. BonifaceFr. Bill talks about St. Boniface, the Apostle to Germany, and how he confronted the paganism of the people of that region, and how his example of zeal and audacity can serve to confront the modern paganisms of today.
2021-06-0516 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLCOLLISIONS WITH HISTORY -- Three Medieval SaintsOn the Feast of St. William of Gellone, the Duke of Aquitaine, Fr. Bill discusses him, and two important English Saints, Augustine of Canterbury and Bede the Venerable, and how they were, and continue to be, important figures not only in the Church, but in the History of England and Christianity.
2021-05-2918 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLHOW TO CONTROL THE HOLY SPIRIT (If You Can)The Third Person of the Holy Trinity is the Holy Spirit which is celebrated every year on Pentecost Sunday - the last day of the 50-day celebration of Easter.
However, it is still subject to the same whimsical interpretation as the Father and Son when it comes to how believers (and non-believers) invoke its action.
Fr. Bill describes the Biblical symbols of the Holy Spirit and how they represent what the Holy Spirit its, what it does, and just how unpredictable and uncontrollable it is; and suggests more modest and humble ways believers come to...
2021-05-2124 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLAMERICAN "HOLY DAYS"The Feast of the Ascension of Jesus (as well as the Epiphany) are now celebrated on Sundays rather than the original 40days after Easter and 12 Days after Christmas, respectively.
Fr. Bill talks about the purpose of Holy Days of Obligation, and why some of these days, more recently the Ascension, have been moved. He also talks about what Holy Days should be kept, moved or suppressed as days of obligation, while also suggesting other days that can be promoted as days for the Mass that draw from both our values as Christians and our identity as Americans.
2021-05-1534 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLComments on the Pastoral Letter on Abortion, Holy Communion and Catholics in Public Life by the Archbishop of San FranciscoFr. Bill offers his thoughts on the Pastoral Letter "Before I Formed You in the Womb I Knew You: on the Human Dignity of the Unborn, Holy Communion, and Catholics in Public Life" by \Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone of San Francisco.
Fr. Bill comments on the Content of the letter, as well as common responses to be expected by dissenting Catholics and why it is important for Catholics in the Public Eye to be particularly diligent in obeying fundamental teachings of their own faith.
2021-05-0735 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLARE YOU STILL CELEBRATING EASTER? - How Relevant is Easter 4-Weeks After the Feast, and 2,000 Years after the Event?Easter is 50 Days of Celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Church spends Seven Weeks celebrating Easter.
Christianity has been Celebrating Easter for 2,000 Years.
But is the Resurrection of Jesus worth celebrating four weeks after Easter? Is the Event of the Resurrection of Jesus still relevant 2,000 Years after the fact?
Join Fr. Bill as he talks about the stories of the Gospels of the Risen Jesus appearing to certain, selected people after He Rose from the Dead, and how those stories reflect a reality that is still relevant today.
2021-04-2336 minFAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLThe TITANIC, ABRAHAM LINCOLN & TAXES - Thoughts on Important AnniversariesApril 15th is Tax Day in the United States; it is also the anniversary of the Death of Abraham Lincoln and the Sinking of the RMS Titanic.
Fr. Bill talks about these important events and how they can speak to us in the midst of the turmoil of the past year -- What we should look out for, what our Duties are and ultimately what Hope is there in the Future.
2021-04-1621 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTHOUGHTS ON THE CANCEL CULTURE - The Issue of "Being Offended"A single podcast is hardly enough to cover all of the issues involved in the Cancel Culture that is sweeping the Western Nations and in particular the United States. Fr. Bill discusses one element of the Cancel Culture -- that of being "offended" by someone or something; how it has contributed to the Cancel Culture and what we can do to counter the cancelation movement we see happening today.
2021-04-0946 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLBEST EVIDENCE OF THE RESURRECTION - Eyewitness Accounts of the Greatest CliffhangerThere is no first hand account of the Resurrection of Jesus, even in the Bible. Yet billions today and even more over the past 2000 years believe it - some even to the point of sacrificing their lives rather than renounce it.
Join Fr. Bill's Easter Podcast as he ponders the presumed lack of evidence, why so many have come to believe in it, and why those who do not believe are still kept on edge by the greatest event of human history.
2021-04-0218 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLTHE FREEDOM TRILOGY - Good Movies to Watch for EasterWhile many like to turn to movies about Jesus during Holy Week, Easter Sunday and the Easter Season, Fr. Bill makes a suggestion of a "trilogy" of movies that deal with the issue of Freedom, with a final resolution on how true Freedom is grounded in Faith in Christ.
Join Fr. Bill as he discusses three unlikely films which build one upon the other to a climax in the third movie on where true freedom must be grounded if it is to lead to an end of tyranny and worldly oppression.
2021-03-2620 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWITHOUT FAITH there is NO COUNTRY - How the United States was Founded on FaithThe United States of America was Founded on Faith, an historical reality that is being denied by an Atheistic interpretation of the "Separation of Church and State." Fr. Bill discusses this important history of the founding of our nation, how the American Revolution is the Superior Revolution to the French Revolution and how Faith was essential to the Founding and continues to be essential to the ongoing endurance of the United States as a Free Society.
2021-03-1931 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLREACTIONS to VATICAN on SAME-SEX UNIONS - "Give Me A Break!!"The Vatican reaffirmed that the Church and its ministers cannot bless same-sex unions. Immediately media and celebrities reacted. Fr. Bill reacts to the reactions with a little insight on the subject, and related topics.
2021-03-1632 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWITHOUT FAITH THERE IS NO FREEDOMThe concept of "Separation of Church and State" is not meant to protect the State from the Church, but rather to protect the Church from the State. Fr. Bill discusses how freedom FROM Religion is the beginning of the end to all freedom, while Freedom OF Religion ensures greater freedom from the tyranny of secularism and the tyranny of the State.
Fr. Bill also addresses the issue of slavery in the West and how the growth of Christianity led to an end of slavery in Medieval Europe, and how when it rose again with colonialism, it was a...
2021-03-0530 min
FAITH HOPE & HISTORY with FR. BILLWITHOUT FAITH THERE IS NO SCIENCE"Following 'the Science'" is a common invocation asserted by many as a one-upmanship to those who profess particularly a Christian faith; as if those of a deep faith are closed to accepting "the science." More often than not the Church's conflict with Galileo is invoked as a demonstration of how the Catholic Church and the Christian Faith is hostile to Science. Fr. Bill discusses the issue, demonstrating that the opposite is true. Not only does Christianity, and in particular Catholicism, have no problem with Science, but it is because of the Christian Faith, and in particular the Catholic Church, tha...
2021-02-2636 min