Shows
The Normal Christian LifeBeing "Religious" Is a Good Thing | S2 E28In this episode, Father Michael Trummer and Father Christopher Trummer take on the often-misunderstood topic of religion—a word that many Christians today regard with suspicion. They acknowledge that much of the criticism directed at “being religious” arises from real problems: hypocrisy, self-reliance, transactional love, and an overemphasis on outward appearances. Yet, rather than dismissing religion altogether, the hosts argue that it is a divine reality—instituted by God in the Old Testament, fulfilled and transformed by Christ, and sustained in the life of the Church. They invite listeners to recover a renewed understanding of religion as a virtue: a purified...
2025-10-281h 03The Normal Christian LifeNot Ashamed of the Gospel | S2 E27Join Fr. Christopher Trummer and Fr. Michael Trummer in a heartfelt discussion on the challenges and importance of boldly preaching the gospel in today's society. In light of recent political violence, including the assassination of conservative speaker Charlie Kirk, the hosts explore what it means to speak the truth, even when it leads to opposition. Drawing from the life of Jesus and various scriptures, they address the balance between being loving and proclaiming the truth. They also share personal experiences and practical advice on overcoming the fear of conflict and rejection. This episode encourages believers to be courageous in...
2025-10-1554 minThe Normal Christian LifeProphecy: The Missing Piece in Evangelization w/ Sean Smith | S2 E26In this episode of Normal Christian Life, Fr. Michael Trummer and Fr. Christopher Trummer, joined by Mary Bielski, have an inspiring conversation with Sean Smith. Sean shares his journey of discovering the gift of prophecy and how it has profoundly impacted his evangelism efforts. From personal testimonies to practical tips on how to hear God's voice, the discussion covers the importance of the prophetic in today's ministry. They also delve into the current move of God to bring about revival and unity in the church. Listen in to be encouraged and equipped to recognize and act on God's voice...
2025-09-251h 06The Normal Christian LifeSimplicity and True Prosperity w/Catherine Porter | S2 E25In this episode, hosts Fr. Michael, Fr. Christopher, and Mary Bielski are joined by guest Catherine Porter to discuss the often overlooked yet pivotal topic of simplicity and detachment from material possessions in the Christian life. The episode explores how Jesus emphasized simplicity throughout the Gospel and how this principle is intricately tied to our relationship with God. Through personal testimonies, scriptural insights, and theological reflections, the conversation reveals that aligning our hearts with God's will in terms of wealth and possessions is essential for true joy, freedom, and holistic discipleship. Join us as we delve into how living...
2025-08-291h 25The Normal Christian LifeThe Body Heals Itself: Wounding and Healing within the Church | S2 E24In this especially vulnerable episode, Fr. Michael Trummer, Fr. Christopher Trummer, and Mary Bielski delve into the complex issue of woundedness within the Church. They explore how many people struggle with their faith because of inconsistency and hypocrisy on the part of Christians, whether fellow believers in the pew or priests and other leaders. Acknowledging the hurt and the legitimate anger and indignation, they discuss the need for forgiveness, accountability, and effective communication in healing these wounds. The conversation aims to provide hope and practical steps for those who have been hurt within the Church, so that all of...
2025-08-111h 05
Roadmap To Heaven with Adam WrightWas Jesus Nice?Today on Roadmap to Heaven, Adam explores what it means to be "nice." He is joined by Fr. Michael Rennier who answers the question, "Was Jesus nice?" Fr. Christopher Trummer joins Adam for a reflection on today's Gospel reading. Adam concludes the show with some thoughts on the importance of spiritual and temporal disciplines.
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2025-08-0736 minThe Normal Christian LifeDemonstrating the Gospel w/Robby Dawkins | S2 E23In this inspiring episode, we explore the profound power and authority that believers possess through their faith in Jesus Christ. Special guest Robby Dawkins, a Christian evangelist, shares his story of coming to faith in Christ and discovering the power of the Holy Spirit. He recounts many miraculous testimonies of healing and even a man who was raised from the dead. Robby emphasizes that believers are not waiting on God for power; they already have it and simply need to step into it with confidence. The discussion highlights the importance of obedience to God's call, the role of prophecy...
2025-08-031h 41The Normal Christian LifeHow Should Christians Use Psychology? w/Dr. Sean Tobin | S2 E22Clinical psychologist Dr. Sean Tobin returns for a conversation about the intersections of faith, psychology, and inner healing. They discuss common issues within modern psychology, the historical evolution of psychological theory, and how Christian perspectives can provide deeper insights and healing. The conversation explores the significance of emotional integration, the relationship between spiritual and psychological healing, and challenges the compartmentalization of the human experience. This episode brings a unique perspective on how faith and psychology can work together for fuller human flourishing.
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2025-07-2157 minThe Normal Christian LifeBIG GOD Little Devil with Dr. Sean Tobin | S2 E21In this enlightening episode, Fr. Michael Trummer and Fr. Christopher Trummer welcome clinical psychologist Dr. Sean Tobin to explore the complex topic of deliverance. Dr. Tobin shares his unique journey from atheism to faith, his experience with exorcisms, and how his background in psychology intersects with spiritual healing. They discuss common misconceptions about the demonic, how to properly approach deliverance, and emphasize the importance of relationship with Christ over formulaic solutions. Dr. Tobin also delves into the role of intimate prayer and the healing of memories in achieving spiritual freedom. Tune in for a deep dive into how the...
2025-07-051h 20The Normal Christian LifeWhat's Stopping You from Hearing God's Voice? | S2 E 20We often want God to speak louder and more clearly, but the invitation always for us to draw near to Him, to recognize and appreciate the ways He is already speaking. Following our earlier episode on hearing God's voice, we now dive deeper into this central aspect of prayer. We explore various conditions and postures of the heart and offer practical tips to help you better tune in to God's voice. Discover key elements such as cultivating faith and expectation, maintaining a positive image of God and self, practicing stillness and silence, desiring God's will, engaging in praise and...
2025-06-1954 minThe Normal Christian LifeYou Can Hear God's Voice – Here's How | S2 E19In this episode of 'The Normal Christian Life,' hosts Fathers Michael and Father Christopher Trummer, along with guest Laura Shoulders, discuss the common struggle of hearing God's voice. They explore various ways through which God communicates, including through thoughts, imagination, feelings, conscience, and dreams. The conversation emphasizes that everyone is made to hear God's voice and that being attuned to subtle impressions and the conditions that foster a receptive environment are key. They share personal experiences and practical tips on recognizing and interpreting these divine communications.
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2025-05-211h 11The Normal Christian LifeIs Prophecy Still a Thing? | S2 E18Join hosts Mary Bielski, Fr. Christopher, and Fr. Michael with special guest Laura Shoulders as they delve into the often misunderstood and overlooked gift of prophecy within the Christian community. In this episode of 'The Normal Christian Life,' they discuss the biblical foundations, personal experiences, and misconceptions of prophecy. They aim to demystify what prophecy really means and how it plays a crucial role in edifying and loving others in the contemporary church. Discover how prophecy is not just an Old Testament relic, but a vibrant part of authentic Christianity, designed for the renewal of the church and...
2025-05-141h 06The Normal Christian Life"Increase Our Faith!": How to Overcome Unbelief and Cultivate Faith | S2 E17Join Fr. Michael Trummer and Fr. Christopher Trummer in this episode of Normal Christian Life as they explore ways to cultivate the gift of faith. They discuss personal experiences, the importance of community, repentance, and practical steps to strengthen one's faith. The episode emphasizes humility, childlike trust, and the role of spiritual senses in deepening one's relationship with God. Additionally, they introduce their new Patreon account to help support and grow the podcast. Tune in for profound insights and practical tips to enrich your spiritual journey.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:34 Support Through Patreon
01:36...
2025-05-0841 minThe Normal Christian LifeDo Not Hide Your Face From Me: Faith, Feelings, and Unbelief | S2 E16Join Fathers Michael and Christopher Trummer in this episode of 'Normal Christian Life' as they explore the fundamental topics of faith and unbelief. They discuss the increasing prevalence of atheism and secularism in the Western world and explore why people are swayed by or struggle with unbelief. Analyzing both rational and non-rational factors including sin, emotional issues, and relational aspects, the hosts offer insights from scripture and tradition. This episode serves as a foundation for understanding the dynamics of belief in contemporary society and sets the stage for their continued discussion on cultivating and deepening one's faith.
2025-04-281h 06The Normal Christian LifeThe Hidden Treasure of Suffering | S2 E15Join Fr. Michael Trummer, Fr. Christopher Trummer, and Mary Bielski in this profound episode of The Normal Christian Life as they explore the concept of redemptive suffering. As we wrap up Lent, they dive into society's attempt to eliminate suffering, using 'The Giver' as an analogy for understanding its significance. They discuss the transformative power of suffering, referencing Viktor Frankl's 'Man's Search for Meaning' and scriptural insights from St. Paul and St. John Paul II. The hosts emphasize how suffering can lead to spiritual growth, deeper relationship with God, and empathy. This episode also discusses exterior opportunities of suffering...
2025-04-181h 05The Normal Christian LifeWhy Is Missing Mass Such a Big Deal? w/ Fr. Michael Trummer
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him" (Jn 3:16-17). God "desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Tim 2:4). Relationship with God is a free gift earned by the perfect saving work of Jesus. God is eager to forgive and show mercy. "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is...
2025-04-1621 minThe Normal Christian LifeTemples of the Holy Spirit: How Diet, Exercise, Sleep, etc. Affect Your Spiritual Life (S2 E14)Join Father Michael Trummer and Father Christopher Trummer in this enlightening episode of 'The Normal Christian Life' as they dive deep into the vital relationship between physical health and spiritual well-being. They explore modern obsessions with health and beauty and discuss how physical health can impact emotional and spiritual states. Drawing from personal experiences, biblical references, and their journeys through various health challenges, the Trummer brothers emphasize the importance of taking care of our bodies, not just for the sake of longevity, but to enhance our spiritual lives and better serve God. Whether you're struggling with health issues or...
2025-04-101h 33The Normal Christian LifeWhat a Priest Learned from the Most Serious Confessions He Has Heard w/ Fr. Michael TrummerFr. Michael shares what he has learned as a priest hearing confessions.
2025-04-0805 minThe Normal Christian LifeChoosing Silence in a World of Noise (S2 E13)In this episode of Normal Christian Life, we talk about the significance of silence, especially during the season of Lent. Reflecting on Jesus’ 40 days in the desert and the importance of stillness, this discussion reveals how silence can enhance our spiritual lives, cultivate holiness, and foster a deeper connection with God. Joined by insightful quotes from saints and personal testimonies, this episode offers practical steps for incorporating silence into our daily lives, ensuring that even in a noisy world, we can find moments of divine encounter and peace.
00:00 Introduction to Silence and Lent
00:24 Jes...
2025-04-051h 15The Normal Christian LifeFrom Duty to Delight: The Priority of Praise (S2 E12)In this episode of the 'Normal Christian Life,' Frs. Michael and Christopher Trummer and Mary Bielski delve into the essence of worship, emphasizing the importance of worshiping God beyond just music. They share personal experiences and insights into how worship has played a vital role in their spiritual lives. The conversation explores the role of praise and adoration in the Church, the transformative power of expressive worship, and practical ways to incorporate worship into daily life. The episode includes references to Biblical episodes, teachings from the Catechism, and the personal journeys of the speakers with a particular focus...
2025-03-311h 08The Normal Christian LifeThe Vital Role of Community (S2 E11)In this episode of 'The Normal Christian Life,' we delve into the significance of spirit-filled community. Building on a previous discussion about friendship, Father Michael, Father Chris, and Mary Bielski explore how community, distinguished by its larger scale and deeper theological context, plays a crucial role in the Christian journey. The episode highlights personal experiences, the importance of deep, intentional relationships within the church, and the transformative power of unity and community. Key aspects such as prophetic prayer, mutual support, and shared worship are discussed, along with practical ways to foster community both in-person and through technology.
2025-03-1751 minThe Normal Christian Life"I Have Called You Friends”: The Gift of Christian Friendship (S2 E10)In this episode of the Normal Christian Life podcast, Father Michael, Christopher, and Mary Bielski explore the profound significance of friendship in the Christian life. They discusse the integral role of friends in spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of Christ-centered relationships. They share their own experiences, discussing how genuine Christian friendships help them stay strong in their faith. They dive into the dynamics of male and female friendships, the challenges of finding and maintaining deep connections, and the transformative power of community rooted in the Lord. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on building and nurturing friendships...
2025-03-061h 01The Normal Christian LifeChildlikeness: Embracing Joy, Humility, and Surrender (S2 E9)
In this episode of The Normal Christian Life, Father Michael Trummer is joined by Miriam Johl and Mary Bielski to explore the theme of spiritual childhood and the profound importance of childlikeness in the spiritual life. Through personal anecdotes, scriptural insights, and heartfelt discussions, the team delves into the distinctive aspects of being childlike, such as joy, surrender, and playfulness. They reflect on the balance between childlike faith and mature responsibility, the power of joy and humor, and the significance of trust and surrender to God. This episode encourages listeners to embrace a childlike disposition, find joy in God, and...
2025-02-181h 04The Normal Christian LifeFaith Comes from What Is Heard: An Introduction to Evangelization (S2 E8)Fr. Michael, Father Christopher, and Mary Bielski - delve into what evangelization truly means and its significance for the renewal of the Church. Explore the importance of personal testimony, the role of miracles and signs, and the power of accompaniment. Discover practical insights and be inspired to take up the call of spreading the gospel through love, prayer, and genuine relationships.
00:00 Introduction to Evangelization 00:53 The Importance of Evangelization 02:52 Personal Experiences and Misconceptions 03:52 Evangelization and Apologetics 05:38 The Role of the Laity in Evangelization 07:48 Evangelization as an Identity 09:19 The Call to Evangelize 12:29 Encounter and Mission 14:33 The Power o...
2025-02-061h 15The Normal Christian LifeDoes God Always Want to Heal? (S2 E7)Father Michael and Father Christopher Trummer explore the complex topic: Does God always want to heal? They discuss various Christian perspectives, particularly focusing on views within the charismatic movement that emphasize healing through faith. The dialogue delves into balancing expectancy in God's healing power with submission to His will, supported by teachings from the Catechism and Biblical references. They highlight the value of redemptive suffering, pointing out instances in scripture and personal experiences where suffering had significant spiritual growth. The episode also addresses potential pitfalls of certain theological interpretations and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy, faith-filled prayer...
2025-01-301h 03
The Normal Christian LifeLiving Spousal Intimacy w/ Katie Reis (S2 E6)Join our hosts and Katie Reis in an insightful discussion that delves into the lived experience of spousal intimacy with the Lord. Building on the previous episode's theological foundation, this installment explores practical aspects of nurturing a deeper relationship with God through prayer, sacrameånts, and vulnerability. They highlight the importance of genuine sharing, savoring God's presence, and overcoming obstacles like fear and unworthiness. Tune in for a profound conversation on expressing love for the Lord and growing in spiritual intimacy.
00:00 Introduction to Spousal Intimacy 00:53 The Role of Prayer in Spousal Intimacy 01:52 Vulnerability and Deep Sh...
2025-01-1457 minThe Normal Christian LifeGod’s Spousal Love, Pt. 1: The Greatest Love Story (S2 E5)In this thought-provoking episode, Father Michael Trummer, Mary Bielski, and Father Christopher, delves into the profound concept of having a spousal relationship with God. Addressing the deeply rooted theological and spiritual aspects of this topic, they discuss the importance of understanding God not just as a friend or father, but as a spouse. The conversation highlights significant scripture passages, the fruits of spousal intimacy, and personal experiences that illustrate how this relationship can transform one's faith journey. Whether you're a priest, a layperson, or someone seeking deeper intimacy with God, this podcast offers valuable insights and reflections. Tune in...
2025-01-081h 13The Normal Christian LifePraying with the Word: Rediscovering Lectio Divina | Encountering the Word Series (S2 E4)Join our hosts and Mike Nolan in this insightful episode of 'The Normal Christian Life,' where they delve deep into the transformative practice of Lectio Divina. Discover the traditional steps of this ancient form of prayer—Lectio, Meditatio, Oratio, and Contemplatio—and gain inspiration from personal stories and experiences that highlight how God speaks to us through scripture. Whether you're new to Lectio Divina or looking to deepen your practice, this discussion offers valuable insights and practical tips for encountering the Word of God in a relational and meaningful way.
00:00 Introduction and Series Overview
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2024-12-301h 21The Normal Christian LifeRelational Prayer with the Word w/ Mike Nolan | Encountering the Word Series (S2 E3)In this video, join our hosts as they engage in an in-depth conversation with Mike Nolan about the profound impact of scripture on one's personal faith journey. Mike shares his touching testimony of turning to the word of God during challenging times and how it helped to navigate through life's hurdles. The discussion covers how to cultivate a relational encounter with scripture, integrating prayer and the word in daily life, and the significance of spiritual and emotional interpretation of biblical passages. Stay tuned to explore practical insights into Lectio Divina and learn how to make the Bible come alive...
2024-12-241h 05The Normal Christian LifeUnleashing the Power of God's Word (Part 2 Encountering God's Word Series) (S2 E2)Join Fathers Trummer and Mary Bielski in the second episode of our video podcast series as he delves deep into the transformative power of the Word of God. In this episode, they discuss the unique attributes of the scriptures, emphasizing their living and active nature, their ability to convict and sanctify, and their essential role in renewing our minds and lives. From personal testimonies to deep theological insights, this episode aims to bolster your faith and ignite a greater hunger for God's Word. Perfect for both listeners and viewers, this enriching discussion will inspire you to integrate the scriptures...
2024-12-171h 07The Normal Christian LifeCatholics Discovering the Word w/ Mary Bielski (S2 E1) Encountering the Word Series)Join Father Michael and Christopher Trummer and Mary Bielski on the first video podcast of the Normal Christian Life as they embark on an engaging series focused on the Word of God. Discover the profound significance of scripture in the life of a believer, especially from a Catholic perspective. Hear personal testimonies and experiences with the Bible, including struggles and eventual deep appreciation. This episode covers the importance of scripture in spiritual growth, spiritual warfare, and personal transformation. Also, get practical tips and encouragement to deepen your love and understanding of God's Word.
2024-12-081h 03The Normal Christian Life37. That They May Be One: Ecumenism Between Catholics and Protestants (w/ Adriana Gonzalez)Father Michael and Christopher Trummer are joined by guest Adriana Gonzalez to explore the topic of ecumenism, focusing on unity among believers, particularly between Catholics and other Christians. Adriana shares her personal journey of faith, highlighting her upbringing in a Catholic home, her family's involvement in the Charismatic Renewal, and her father's dramatic conversion from atheism to fervent faith in Christ. The discussion emphasizes the need for humility, the pursuit of unity through shared prayer, and the recognition of the Holy Spirit's work across different Christian denominations. The participants acknowledge the good fruits from other Christians, such as their...
2024-11-221h 40The Normal Christian Life36. Beyond Familiarity: Intentionally Engaging the MassIn this episode, Fr. Tony Cecil joins Fr. Michael and Fr. Christopher to explore various facets of enhancing our engagement and experience during the Mass. It emphasizes mindfulness, a contemplative mindset, and the other necessary dispositions of the heart. They discuss the importance of being generous with our time, as well as the nature of internal and external participation. The role of confession and a devotional life, such as Eucharistic adoration, is highlighted as vital for deeper connection with God. Practical tips for enriching the Mass experience include preparing spiritually beforehand, engaging in discussions, and balancing different forms of...
2024-10-221h 32The Normal Christian Life35. Healing Shame: Making Room for God's Love (Inner Healing Series)This podcast episode delves into the topic of shame and its impact on spiritual and emotional healing. Fr. Michael, Fr. Christopher, and Joe discuss how shame is often a subtle and deeply rooted wound that affects people's ability to experience God's love and delight. They emphasize that shame is not just another wound, but a core wound since the fall of humanity. The hosts explain how shame can prevent individuals from walking confidently in their faith, as it leads to self-rejection, a sense of inadequacy, and a distorted view of one's worth.
The discussion also covers how...
2024-10-141h 16The Normal Christian Life34. What is "Catholic Mindfulness"? (Inner Healing Series)What is "Catholic mindfulness"? Is it a new age add-on to Christian spirituality, or is it compatible with Catholic tradition and orthodoxy? "Mindfulness" can refer to the natural ability to focus our attention fully on the present moment. Defined thus, mindfulness can be understood as essential for meditative prayer and active recollection, and for the contemplative life in general.
Strongly influenced by Dr. Greg Bottaro's book, The Mindful Catholic, this episode explores the topic of mindfulness: what it is (and is not), the fruits of practicing mindfulness, basic practicals, and reasons why mindfulness is especially critical for C...
2024-09-301h 08The Normal Christian Life33. God's Kindness Leads to Repentence w/ Mary Bielski (Inner Healing Series)At the end of the day, we are never our own masters: we are either children of God and "slaves of righteousness", or slaves of sin and the Devil. While many of us in the Church are preaching an important message of God's mercy and seeking to address issues of unhealthy shame and guilt, we sometimes overlook or play down this simple reality of our sins and their power to enslave us. Mary Bielski rejoins our hosts in this episode of our Inner Healing Series to talk about the detrimental impact of sin in our lives and God's call...
2024-09-161h 31The Normal Christian Life32. The Holy Spirit, Catalyst for Evangelization (w/ Fr. Mathias Thelen)While many Catholics are distressed at the division and strife within the Church in recent years, the reality is that the Holy Spirit is offering us an extraordinary grace and opportunity for evangelization. In this episode, Fr. Matthias Thelen joins our hosts to share his testimony, as well as his insights on how the Holy Spirit is working to bring unity to the Church today. Fr. Mathias is the president and co-founder of Encounter Ministries, an international ministry that is dedicated to teaching and equipping the faithful (both priests and laity) to fully exercise the supernatural gifts they have...
2024-08-311h 07The Normal Christian Life31. One Body, Many Parts: Internal Family Systems (Inner Healing Series)Within Catholic circles in recent years, a new psychological approach has gained traction: Internal Family Systems (IFS). Our hosts believe this approach offers a deeply insightful way of understanding our complex inner world, that synchronizes well with a Christian anthropology. While not professing to be experts, our hosts offer their own understanding and experience of IFS as a way of introducing listeners to the topic, and of encouraging them to explore it for themselves. Questions addressed include: Why does IFS claim that we have "parts" within ourselves? What is the "inmost self", and why is this concept so important...
2024-08-191h 46The Normal Christian Life30. "Deliver Us from Evil": The Reality and Role of Deliverance Ministry (Inner Healing Series)Continuing our series on inner healing, Fr. Michael and Fr. Chris team up to introduce the topic of deliverance, and its vital importance within the Christian life. Points addressed include:
The real need for spiritual warfare and deliverance in the lives of most people
The literal (not figurative) influence of Satan and the demonic within the Biblical narrative, most emphasized by Jesus himself
The way that demons can gain influence over people without possessing them
How psychological wounds and spiritual oppression usually go hand-in-hand, so that there is not always an obvious distinction
Distinctions between deliverance and the...
2024-08-121h 11The Normal Christian Life29. Forgiveness: The Key to Inner Healing (w/ Miriam Johll) (Inner Healing Series)Today's world doesn't put a high premium on forgiveness. But Jesus has given his followers, both by word and by example, a clear mandate of unconditional forgiveness. In this series on inner healing, Miriam Johll returns to join the discussion with Fr. Michael and Fr. Chris. Topics addressed include: the effects of unforgiveness, what forgiveness is (and IS NOT), the role of the emotions, the steps of forgiving, and more!
2024-08-051h 55The Normal Christian Life29. Forgiveness: The Key to Inner Healing (w/ Miriam Johll)Today's society does not put a high premium on forgiveness. But Jesus himself stressed, by word and example, that forgiveness has an irreplaceable function within our relationships, our prayer, and our entire healing journey. Miriam Johll returns to the podcast with Fr. Michael and Fr. Chris as they together share their perspectives and insights on forgiveness. They discuss the drastic effects that unforgiveness has on us, what forgiveness is and IS NOT, ways for us to be able to sincerely forgive others, and the blessing, release and freedom that will result from forgiveness in our own lives.
2024-08-051h 55The Normal Christian Life28. Truths and Lies w/ Laura Shoulders (Inner Healing Series)Laura Shoulders joins our hosts again to discuss true and false beliefs, and their fundamental importance in our healing journey. In this episode, they discuss:
How Satan uses lies as his primary weapon
How every lie stems from doubting the truth of God's goodness
How even small lies can end up having a huge impact on our lives
How to identify identify lies and renounce them
The difference between propositional "head" belief versus experiential "heart" belief
How to face the emotional impact of lies
The impact of true and false narratives on our inner world
And much more!
2024-07-111h 31The Normal Christian Life27. Human Formation: A Catholic Responsibility (Inner Healing Series)According to Pope St. John Paul II, human formation is the most foundational of all the types of formation required by seminarians. But human formation is not just essential for seminarians - the laity need it as well! "Human formation" refers to the integration of the bodily, emotional, psychological aspects of our humanity; and since "grace perfects nature", according to St. Thomas Aquinas, we need to have a holistic approach to our relationship with God, in order for that relationship to be authentic -- and authentically human.
Joe returns to discuss with Fr. Michael and Fr. Chris...
2024-07-051h 22The Normal Christian Life26. What's the Deal with Medjugorje? (w/ Mike Nolan)For over 40 years now, the alleged apparitions of Mary in Medjugorje (Bosnia and Herzegovina) have been polarizing topic for many Catholics. For some, the apparitions of Mary and the messages are hailed as an extraordinary visitation of grace for our time, with an overabundance of fruits to prove it; while others dismiss the Medjugorje phenomenon as a hoax and a hotbed of division.
In this episode, Fr. Michael and Fr. Chris are joined by Mike Nolan for a conversation about Medjugorje: its history and spirituality, the approval process, some misunderstandings surrounding it, and positive fruits that pilgrimage...
2024-06-101h 39The Normal Christian Life25. Developing a Personal Relationship with Mary (w/ Miriam Johll)Miriam Johll is a friend of our hosts. Hailing from Iowa, she has a heart for evangelization and healing ministry. Before diving into our main topic, Miriam shares some of her life testimony of personal healing through encounters with God the Father, and her subsequent launch into ministry.
While virtually every Catholic is familiar with Mary - her particular devotions (i.e., the Rosary), her statues, her feast days - it is not uncommon for Catholics, and other Christians, to feel distant from her as a person. Mary is the mother of Jesus, but Jesus has entrusted...
2024-06-031h 45The Normal Christian Life24. The Effects of Pentecost: Have You Received the Holy Spirit?Do we really believe that Pentecost is an ever-present reality in the Church? Just as health or sickness have diagnosable side effects, so too the presence of the Holy Spirit, first poured out at Pentecost, should have visible "side effects" - both in terms of the fruits of personal heart-transformation (love, joy, peace, etc.), and in its repercussions throughout the Church as a whole.
In this episode, Fr. Michael and Fr. Chris break down the effects of Pentecost, following the points offered in the book "Baptism in the Holy Spirit" (International Catholic Charismatic Renewal Services Doctrinal Commission).
2024-05-271h 36The Normal Christian Life23. Tongues: The Controversial CharismThe "gift of tongues" (or "speaking in tongues") has been an enduring topic of debate and even controversy within the mainstream Church, as perhaps no other gift has. However, as St. Paul's first letter to the Corinthians indicates, prayer and praise tongues were a normal part of life in the early Church, and clearly have a place in the Christian life today.
In this episode, Fr. Michael and Fr. Chris first address some common criticisms and misunderstandings of tongues that have gained traction among orthodox Catholics. They then explain the nature and purpose of tongues - not...
2024-05-131h 28The Normal Christian Life22. Power Perfected in Weakness: Testimony by Alma Pederson"We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him..." (Romans 8:28). Few can say this with greater assurance than Alma Pederson. One of Fr. Michael's parishioners, Alma shares vulnerably about her challenging upbringing: her years of growing up in a poor family in Mexico; her teenage years financially supporting her family in L.A. with no more than a third grade education; her years as a young unmarried mother. Though she often had to endure horrific circumstances - rejection, betrayal, emotional and physical abuse, crushing responsibilities - God protected her from adopting a...
2024-05-061h 26The Normal Christian Life21. Inner Healing: A Top Priority (Inner Healing Series)What exactly is "inner healing"? Is it just another fad of pop spirituality? And if it's not, who needs it? Everyone, or just a few?
The answer is: in a fallen world, we all need inner healing. In this episode, our hosts introduce the topic of inner healing, and its crucial role in the renewal of the Church. Topics covered in this episode include:
What is meant by inner healing - and what isn't
Points of distinction between inner healing and psychological therapy
The Scriptural basis for inner healing prayer, and its counterparts in traditional spirituality
...
2024-04-291h 34The Normal Christian Life20. "I'm Catholic, and I've Never Experienced God""I hear about people having these powerful spiritual experiences, but I've been a practicing Catholic my whole life and never had one! I guess this is what's normal for me." Our hosts have heard this time and again from faithful Catholics, and they understand -- they too have been there.
In this follow-up to Episode 4 (The Role of Supernatural Experience), Joe and the Frs. Trummer address the all-too-common problem of the Catholic "non-experience" of God. First, they explain and provide context for the frequently misquoted line of Jesus to Thomas the apostle: "Blessed are they who have...
2024-04-222h 01The Normal Christian Life19. The Tongue is a Fire (w/ Mary Bielski and Laura Shoulders)The human tongue has real power. By our words, we can choose to reflect the image of God and to bring life and blessing to others, or we can speak death and deface the beauty and goodness of the world around us. In this conversation, Fr. Michael, Mary Bielski, and Laura Shoulders discuss the power of the tongue and the importance of our words. They highlight the biblical principle that our words have a creative power to either bless or curse, while emphasizing the need for awareness of our language and its impact within the spiritual realm.
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2024-04-151h 13The Normal Christian Life18. The Role of Women in the Church w/ Laura Shoulders & Mary BielskiProvidentially released on the (observed) Feast of the Annunciation, this episode is a an honest and affirming conversation between the two priests, and previous guests Laura and Mary, on the roles that women are called to in the Church today. While at first focusing on women's authority in ministry (including the true empowerment the Holy Spirit grants to women in the charisms), the conversation shifts to the need for a renewed mind regarding the principles of ministry that Jesus enjoins on His disciples - and subsequently, our vision of woman's role in God's plan. Finally, Laura, Mary and the...
2024-04-081h 27The Normal Christian Life17. Kerygma: Reclaiming the Heart of the Gospel (w/ Laura Shoulders)While faithful Catholics have many ways of approaching and discussing the Gospel narrative, there is one narrative that lies at its heart. "God so loved the world that he sent His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." In the season of Holy Week and Easter, there are so many points to reflect on that it's possible to miss the forest for the trees. The kerygma - the proclamation of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, his entire life and mission - is not primarily about ethics, morality, suffering, or Catholic...
2024-04-011h 18The Normal Christian Life16. God's Sheep Hear His VoiceIf you are a Christian, God speaks to you . . . and you can expect to hear Him. While our conscience can guide us to distinguish right and wrong, Christianity demands that we be more than just "decent", moral people. Through His Holy Spirit, He wants to give us concrete guidance in our lives as a Shepherd, Father, and Friend. In this episode, our hosts discuss the ways in which God speaks to us; how we can discern His voice; the effects it has in our lives and hearts; and how He wants us to respond.
Moreover, God wants...
2024-03-251h 40The Normal Christian Life15. The Power of Prophecy w/ Mike NolanWhat would you do if God spoke to you directly? God does still speak today through many believers who have the gift of prophecy, but he also wants to give you supernatural revelation to build up others as well! In this episode, Mike joins our hosts again to give an introductory explanation of the charism of prophecy – its varied forms and purposes – while sharing many astounding personal stories of life-changing prophetic words, both given and received. These testimonies from Mike and our hosts should “crowd out the doubt” and convince every listener that God truly loves us and wants to be cl...
2024-03-201h 18The Normal Christian Life14. "Jesus Didn't Die for a Powerless Church": Testimony by Mike NolanIn the face of the world's challenges, we Christians sometimes feel helpless and settle for spiritual maintenance. But the cross of Jesus has obtained much more for us than just spiritual survival. In his life and ministry, Mike Nolan demonstrates that we can unleash the power of God's kingdom all around us, by simply choosing to receive what already belongs to us by divine inheritance.
A friend of our hosts, Mike Nolan is a husband and father of seven from South Bend, Indiana. Through his ministry, Shadow on the Water (https://shadowonthewater.com/), Mike heads pilgrimages, an...
2024-03-111h 15The Normal Christian Life12. Objections to the Charismatic Renewal, Part 1: Common MisconceptionsChristians seeking to live their faith more radically encounter many roadblocks, especially as they develop an interest in the spiritual gifts. In this challenging episode, our hosts attempt to address some of the common misconceptions that needlessly discourage Catholics in particular from embracing the charismatic renewal and spiritual gifts. Some objections addressed here include:
It's just weird.
What if it's fake, and I get deceived?
What if it's dangerous or demonic?
The saints weren't charismatic, why should I be?
Isn't it prideful to ask for supernatural things or talk about them?
We're Catholic, and this stuff seems more...
2024-03-041h 37The Normal Christian Life13. Objections to the Charismatic Renewal, Part 2: Real DangersWhile the previous episode addressed some misconceptions regarding the charismatic renewal and gifts, this episode spells out some of the concerns and even dangers that our hosts have observed within the charismatic lifestyle. While fear is useless (Mark 5:36), prudence and sometimes caution are necessary in the spiritual journey. This frank discusssion will hopefully address some lingering objections listeners may have, as well as challenge current charismatics to not grow complacent.
Some concerns covered include:
Celebrity worship
Having "a direct pipeline to God"
Opening doors to evil spirits
Making spiritual experience a measure of authority
Abusing the...
2024-03-041h 34The Normal Christian Life11. God's Faithful Love: Testimony by Fr. Tony CecilFr. Tony Cecil is a close friend of Fr. Chris who was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Louisville, Kentucky in 2019. In his disarming and powerful testimony, Fr. Tony describes his early years growing up with a single father who modeled God's faithfulness to him; his first year as a priest, when anxiety and suffering compelled him to seek inner healing; and finally, a miraculous physical healing and an encounter with Jesus that would redefine his sense of his priestly identity and transform his ministry.
2024-02-261h 29The Normal Christian Life10. New Wineskins: The Purpose of Fasting (Lenten Special)Why do we fast, practice self-denial, and learn to say “no” to ourselves? This episode offers a perspective on asceticism that is challenging, yet also profoundly positive. We Christians are called to pursue a radical lifestyle of fasting and self-denial – not to punish ourselves or earn God’s love, but to be freed from earthly attachments and to become “new wineskins”, ready for an infilling of the new wine of the Holy Spirit.
2024-02-191h 28The Normal Christian Life8. Purity of Heart w/ Mary BielskiIn our times of division and sifting, many Christians share the sense that God, far from abandoning his Church, is calling her members to a renewal of authentic purity of heart today. Mary Bielski (national Catholic speaker; founder, All4Him Ministries) shares her powerful testimony, and then joins our hosts to discuss purity of heart through both biblical and experiential lenses: its pivotal role in the spiritual life, and how it enables us to live the life of Heaven now.
2024-02-121h 18The Normal Christian Life9. Vocation: Calling, Not Identity (w/ Mary Bielski)If you are struggling in the discernment and pursuit of your vocation, this episode is for you! Mary Bielski joins our hosts to address the difficulties that sincere Catholics, young and middle-aged, face today in pursuing or fully embracing God's calling. In particular, they discuss the discouragment and fear that arises when we conflate our baptismal identity with our vocation to a particular state in life. Finally, they offer encouragment through testimony and Scripture for the uplifting and renewal of our minds in this regard.
2024-02-121h 03The Normal Christian Life7. Is Jesus Healing People Today? Physical Healing and the GospelWhat role - if any - should physical healing have in Christian life today? Using Scripture and personal testimony, our hosts explain why we should press in for physical healing in prayer: to manifest the compassion of Jesus and demonstrate the power of the Gospel to a world mired in skepticism and unbelief. Supernatural healing makes the Kingdom tangible! Additionally, our hosts address how an expectation for healing fits with a balanced theology of redemptive suffering.
2024-01-311h 27The Normal Christian Life6. Becoming the Beloved: Embracing Our Baptismal IdentityShould baptized people see themselves differently? At baptism, our identity is radically transformed from that of a loved creation of God, made in His image, to that of His own adopted son or daughter. But for many Christians, this does not translate to a radical awareness of their adoption by the Father. Our hosts share their insights on being a child of God (and how everything else in Christian life flows from this identity), and on becoming more deeply aware of the sonship/daughterhood we already possess.
2024-01-241h 07The Normal Christian Life5. Fear of Man w/ Laura ShouldersOne of the greatest snares set before us in our Christian journey is what Scripture calls "the fear of man". Laura Shoulders from Owensboro, KY shares her testimony of encountering God, before jumping into the topic with our hosts: what "fear of man" is, why it's so powerful, and the Lord's remedy which offers us true freedom.
2024-01-171h 34The Normal Christian Life4. The Role of Supernatural ExperienceDo you expect the supernatural in your life? In this episode, the hosts share reasons why concrete experiences of God and the supernatural have been from the beginning, and should still be today, a normal and necessary part of lived Christianity. In addition, they discuss the vitally important role that our feelings and emotions play in living an abundant life that glorifies God and brings his light to others.
2024-01-121h 10The Normal Christian Life3. ”Baptism in the Holy Spirit”: The Divine SolutionIn our time, God has addressed the crisis of faith by reawakening his Church to his presence, through a grace called "Baptism in the Holy Spirit". After explaining the theology behind this term and some characteristics of the grace itself, the hosts share testimonies of how they have each experienced baptism in the Spirit within their own lives, and how God became "real" to each of them in a new way as a result.
2024-01-061h 18The Normal Christian Life2. What Is Going to Lead to Renewal in the Catholic Church?While most members of the Church agree on the need for renewal, there are many different views on what renewal should look like. The Frs. Trummer and Joe propose that, instead of relying on programs, we look to God's promises and the witness of the saints, "so that your faith may not rest in the wisdom of men but on the power of God" (1 Cor 2:5).
2024-01-0655 minThe Normal Christian Life1. Normal Christianity = Extraordinary LifeIn this introductory episode, Frs. Michael and Chris Trummer, and layman Joe Herring, explain their inspiration behind the title and concept of this new podcast. They then each share testimonies of how the Lord has drawn them together over the past ten years, kindling in them the same passion for understanding and pursuing the fullness of our Christian life received at baptism.
2024-01-0649 min