Shows
What is Truth?Episode 13: Fr. Thomas Morrow on God's Design for Marriage: Theology, Love, and Sacrifice (June 8, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth?, Jonathon Fessenden interviews Fr. Thomas Morrow on God's Design for Marriage: Theology, Love, and Sacrifice (June 8, 2025)2025-06-0953 min
New Books in ReligionDavid G. Bonagura Jr, "100 Tough Questions for Catholics: Common Obstacles to Faith Today" (Sophia Institute, 2025)David Bonagura teaches classical languages and theology at St. Joseph’s Seminary in New York and Catholic International University; he also teaches high school kids. He invited them to ask their questions about the faith, which led to some exciting classroom discussions and David’s new book—100 Tough Questions for Catholics—which we are talking about today.
David Bonagura’s website.
David Bonagura’s new book, 100 Tough Questions for Catholics.
David Bonagura’s previous appearance on Almost Good Catholics, episode 86: Jerome’s Tears: Death and Mourning in Christian Late Antiquity
Chris Odyniec and Jonathon Fessenden take on the question o...2025-05-241h 07What is Truth?Episode 12: Dr. Chris Reilly on his book AI and Sin: How Today’s Technology Motivates Evil (May 22, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth?, Jonathon Fessenden interviews Dr. Chris Reilly on his book AI and Sin: How Today’s Technology Motivates Evil (May 22, 2025)Artificial intelligence technology (AI) motivates persons’ engagement in sin. With this startling argument drawn from Catholic theology and technological insight, Christopher M. Reilly, Th.D. takes on both critics and proponents of AI who see it as essentially a neutral tool that can be used with good or bad intentions. More specifically, Reilly demonstrates that AI strongly encourages the vice of instrumental rationality, which in turn leads the developers, producers, and users of A...2025-05-2356 min
Almost Good CatholicsDavid G. Bonagura Jr, "100 Tough Questions for Catholics: Common Obstacles to Faith Today" (Sophia Institute, 2025)David Bonagura teaches classical languages and theology at St. Joseph’s Seminary in New York and Catholic International University; he also teaches high school kids. He invited them to ask their questions about the faith, which led to some exciting classroom discussions and David’s new book—100 Tough Questions for Catholics—which we are talking about today.
David Bonagura’s website.
David Bonagura’s new book, 100 Tough Questions for Catholics.
David Bonagura’s previous appearance on Almost Good Catholics, episode 86: Jerome’s Tears: Death and Mourning in Christian Late Antiquity
Chris Odyniec and Jonathon Fessenden take on the question o...2025-05-231h 07
New Books in Christian StudiesDavid G. Bonagura Jr, "100 Tough Questions for Catholics: Common Obstacles to Faith Today" (Sophia Institute, 2025)David Bonagura teaches classical languages and theology at St. Joseph’s Seminary in New York and Catholic International University; he also teaches high school kids. He invited them to ask their questions about the faith, which led to some exciting classroom discussions and David’s new book—100 Tough Questions for Catholics—which we are talking about today.
David Bonagura’s website.
David Bonagura’s new book, 100 Tough Questions for Catholics.
David Bonagura’s previous appearance on Almost Good Catholics, episode 86: Jerome’s Tears: Death and Mourning in Christian Late Antiquity
Chris Odyniec and Jonathon Fessenden take on the question o...2025-05-231h 07What is Truth?Episode 11: Dr. George Mychaskiw on his book Follow the Science (May 3, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth?, Jonathon Fessenden interviews Dr. George Mychaskiw on his book Follow the Science: A Catholic Physician’s Contemplations on Faith, Medicine, and the Catholic Church with forewords by Bishop Joseph E. Strickland and Charles C. Camosy, PhDDo you ever wonder if the scientific world has lost its compass?Does it seem like the Catholic Church is increasingly irrelevant in a culture of death and secular self-interest?Is there no behavior too outrageous, offensive or preposterous enough for a civilized society to protest?In this book, Dr. George Mychaskiw, a faithful Catholic, ped...2025-05-041h 09What is Truth?Episode 10: Dr. Matthew Tsakanikas on his book A Catechesis on Deification, Transfiguration & the Luminous Mysteries (April 21, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth, Jonathon Fessenden interviews Matthew Tsakanikas on his book A Catechesis on Deification, Transfiguration & the Luminous Mysteries (April 21, 2025)This book is a catechetical exploration of Christian deification, deeply rooted in the theological insights of Saint Athanasius and other Church Fathers. The work connects the mysteries of the Rosary with the transformative grace offered through Christ, focusing particularly on the Luminous Mysteries as a lens for understanding humanity’s participation in the divine life.Central to the book is the concept of deification, described as the process by which humans become “part...2025-04-2353 minWhat is Truth?Episode 9: Stepping Up: Caitie Crowley on How Christ Transforms Suffering (March 30, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth?, Jonathon Fessenden sits down with Caitie Crowley, author of Stepping Up!: How Christ Turned My Pain & Suffering into Hope & Joy. Caitie shares her powerful testimony of redemptive suffering, healing, and forgiveness, revealing how Christ transformed her deepest struggles into a source of grace. We discuss the meaning of suffering in the Christian life, the power of faith in hardship, and how true healing begins with surrender to God’s will. Whether you're facing your own trials or seeking a deeper understanding of redemptive suffering, this conversation will inspire and uplift you. WHER...2025-03-3140 minWhat is Truth?Episode 8: The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ: Visions of Blessed Anne Emmerich-With Fr. Looney (March 22, 2025)In this powerful episode, Missio Dei welcomes Fr. Edward Looney to discuss The Dolorous Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the profound visions of Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich. Join Jonathon Fessenden as they explore the gripping details of Christ’s Passion as revealed to the mystic nun, whose visions inspired The Passion of the Christ. Discover the spiritual depth of these revelations, their significance for our faith, and how they continue to impact devotion to Our Lord’s suffering and sacrifice.2025-03-2340 min
Tell Them For MeWill Marriage Cure your Porn Addiction? (Special Guest Jonathon Fessenden)In this episode we’re joined by our very own media coordinator, Jonathan Fessenden, who shares his powerful journey with faith, purity, and overcoming struggles with pornography. Jonathan opens up about his personal experiences, the impact of cultural influences, and how faith has played a crucial role in his healing.
💡 Topics Covered:
🔹 Jonathan’s journey to Road to Purity
🔹 Overcoming struggles with pornography and healing through faith
🔹 The deeper need for love, intimacy, and connection with God
🔹 The truth about toxic masculinity and its cultural roots
🔹 Road to Purity’s mission to support men and families
📢 Resources & Support:
✅ Visit RoadToPurity.com for free resources & supp...2025-02-2717 minWhat is Truth?Episode 7: Jose Pulido on his book How to Evangelize Anyone (February 16, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth?, Jonathon Fessenden interviews Jose Pulido on his book How to Evangelize Anyone: Proven Skills and Techniques That Make Bringing the Faith to Others Easy and Enjoyable. (February 16, 2025)Skills that Work in the Real WorldYou, like every Catholic, have loved ones, friends, and coworkers who suffer from broken and even antagonistic relationships with Christ and his Church. It's heartbreaking. Beyond prayer, we can feel powerless.Great news! With this new book you can now learn how to effectively bring the faith to others without fear—while growing in your own faith...2025-02-2153 minWhat is Truth?Episode 6: Dan Schneider's Liber Christo Method: Marian Devotion, Generational Sin, and Working with Fr. Ripperger (February 2, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth?, Jonathon Fessenden interviews Dan Schneider on his Liber Christo Method: Marian Devotion, Generational Sin, and Working with Fr. Ripperger (February 2, 2025)00:00 Intro 01:45 Cannon Law Devotion to Mary 06:30 Spiritual Combat 10:55 Mary is called woman, and why 22:30 Catholic walkaways-Understanding the Eucharist 28:00 ad orientum 34:51 Eucharistic Ministers and the Novus Ordo 40:43 The Millenial Uprising Toward Traditional Values 42:22 Breathing Modernist Air 42:37 The Laying of Hands on Another 50:23 Generational Sin 58:37 Occult Backgrounds In the Family 1:08:56 Ending Talk2025-02-061h 11What is Truth?Episode 5: Joseph Freymann on his book Summa Apologetica: Catholic Apologetics and Moral Questions (January 31, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth? Jonathon Fessenden interviews Joseph Freymann on his book Summa Apologetica: Catholic Apologetics and Moral Questions (January 31, 2025)Summa Apologetica is for adults and mature teens. It is specifically designed for a year-long course in Catholic Apologetics at the late high-school or early-college level. The book contains 160 questions and answers on Catholicism, Christianity, and faith in general. There are six categories: Natural Apologetics, Christian Apologetics, Catholic Apologetics, Historical Apologetics, Moral Apologetics and General Questions. The book is based on the philosophy and theology of St. Thomas Aquinas, as well as magisterial documents and t...2025-01-3130 minWhat is Truth?Episode 4: Finding Hope in God’s Love: Edward Byrne’s In Whom I Am Well Pleased on Overcoming the Darkness of Suicide (January 11, 2025)In this episode of What is Truth?, Jonathon Fessenden interviews Edward Byrne on his book In Whom I Am Well Pleased. (January 11, 2025)Your child’s suicide feels like the biggest parental failure of all. Any parent wants to be prepared for the worst, but no one ever anticipates the horror actually happening until it is too late. In alternating chapters, this memoir chronicles Matt Byrne’s youth and growth into an All-American boy, and subsequent fall from grace as PTSD from his dream job as FDNY firefighter spiraled him toward substance abuse and depression. A cautionary tale, In Whom I Am...2025-01-1239 minWhat is Truth?Episode 3: Dan Burke on his Conversion from Judaism to Catholicism and his Evangelization of the Jews (December 28, 2024)In this episode of What is Truth?, John Fessenden interviews Dan Burke on his Conversion from Judaism to Catholicism and his Evangelization of the Jews. (December 28, 2024)2024-12-2949 min
HORROR 101 with Dr. ACEp 66 - THE COFFIN JOE TRILOGY (1964-2008) COMES ALIVE!!!AT MIDNIGHT I'LL TAKE YOUR SOUL (1964) d. Jose Mojica Marins (Brazil) THIS NIGHT I'LL POSSESS YOUR CORPSE (1967) d. Jose Mojica Marins (Brazil) EMBODIMENT OF EVIL (2008) d. Jose Mojica Marins (Brazil) In 1964, Brazil's democratically elected government was forcefully overthrown, with the new authoritarian regime enacting new laws that stifled freedom of speech and increased censorship of all media. Somehow, this was also the year that At Midnight I’ll Take Your Soul, featuring Brazil’s first horror icon, Coffin Joe (played by director/co-writer Jose Mojica Marins), was hurled like a celluloid pipe-bomb into the midst of s...2024-12-061h 04What is Truth?Episode 2: Exorcist Msgr. Stephen Rossetti on Generational Curses: Soul Ties & Renunciation Prayers (November 13, 2024)Join Jonathon Fessenden for a profound discussion with Exorcist Msgr. Stephen Rossetti as we delve into the spiritual realms of generational spirits and curses. In this enlightening session, Msgr. Rossetti sheds light on the concept of "Soul Ties" and the power of renunciation prayers. Learn how these spiritual elements can affect our lives and discover the steps to break free from these ties and curses. Whether you're seeking spiritual healing or simply curious about these topics, this video offers valuable insights and guidance. Topics Covered: Understanding generational spirits and curses The nature and impact of soul ties Effective renunciation prayers...2024-11-1436 minWhat is Truth?Episode 1: "Uncovering the Secrets of Stigmata": Paul Kengor Discusses The Stigmatists (November 9, 2024)In this episode of "What is Truth?" entitled "Uncovering the Secrets of Stigmata," Jonathon Fessenden discusses The Stigmatists with renowned author Paul Kengor to delve into his latest book, The Stigmatists. Together, they explore the mysterious phenomenon of stigmata—marks resembling the wounds of Christ—that has appeared on some of the most devoted and enigmatic figures in Catholic history. Kengor shares his research on the lives of stigmatists, the profound spiritual experiences they endured, and the significance of these miracles in the Catholic faith. This discussion reveals both the historical and theological depth behind stigmata, inviting viewers to reflect on th...2024-11-1034 min
I Thought You'd Like to KnowFr. Patrick Resen and Dcn. Mike Plese on their upcoming Tour to Ireland and Scotland (June 13, 2024)In this episode of I Thought You'd Like to Know, Jonathon Fessenden of Missio Dei interviews Fr. Patrick Resen and Dcn. Mike Plese on their upcoming Tour to Ireland and Scotland (June 13, 2024)Trip Store (proximotravel.com)2024-06-1422 minAlmost Good CatholicsHomo sapiens catholicus (with Jeremy Holmes)Theology Professor Jeremy Holmes of Wyoming Catholic College teaches a class called “Science and Theology,” which is about the Darwin’s theory of evolution and related topics, including the problems we encounter in the fossil record and our understanding of genetic change. I ask him about the discussions he has with his students and his colleagues and how where his investigations have led him.
Jeremy Holmes’s faculty webpage at Wyoming Catholic College
Professor Holmes’s book, Cur Deus Verba: Why the Word Became Words (Ignatius Press, 2021).
“Confederate Evolution Debate” from Gettysburg (1993)
Related Almost Good Catholics episode:Jay Richards on Almost...2024-02-151h 20New Books in Christian StudiesHomo sapiens catholicus (with Jeremy Holmes)Theology Professor Jeremy of Wyoming Catholic College teaches a class called “Science and Theology,” which is about the Darwin’s theory of evolution and related topics, including the problems we encounter in the fossil record and our understanding of genetic change. I ask him about the discussions he has with his students and his colleagues and how where his investigations have led him.
Jeremy Holmes’s faculty webpage at Wyoming Catholic College
Professor Holmes’s book, Cur Deus Verba: Why the Word Became Words (Ignatius Press, 2021).
“Confederate Evolution Debate” from Gettysburg (1993)
Related Almost Good Catholics episode:Jay Richards on Almost G...2024-02-151h 20
New Books in Catholic StudiesHomo sapiens catholicus (with Jeremy Holmes)Theology Professor Jeremy Holmes of Wyoming Catholic College teaches a class called “Science and Theology,” which is about the Darwin’s theory of evolution and related topics, including the problems we encounter in the fossil record and our understanding of genetic change. I ask him about the discussions he has with his students and his colleagues and how where his investigations have led him.
Jeremy Holmes’s faculty webpage at Wyoming Catholic College
Professor Holmes’s book, Cur Deus Verba: Why the Word Became Words (Ignatius Press, 2021).
“Confederate Evolution Debate” from Gettysburg (1993)
Related Almost Good Catholics episode:Jay Richards on Almost...2024-02-151h 20
New Books in Film"Apocalypto" and Mel Gibson (with Jonathon Fessenden)The 2006 Mel Gibson movie, Apocalypto, takes us into a decadent Maya civilization in the Yucatan on the eve of the Spanish Conquest of Mexico. It could be a commentary on ancient Rome or the present-day US, but, because it is a new world for both the viewer and the forest-dwelling protagonists, we get to see it through ‘new eyes’ and a ‘beginner’s mind.’ It’s a great movie, a cinematic masterpiece. It also allows us to ask how Mel Gibson, a devout Catholic and such a human sinner—as we all are, though when he does something terrible it’s in the new...2024-01-181h 04New Books in Catholic Studies"Apocalypto" and Mel Gibson (with Jonathon Fessenden)The 2006 Mel Gibson movie, Apocalypto, takes us into a decadent Maya civilization in the Yucatan on the eve of the Spanish Conquest of Mexico. It could be a commentary on ancient Rome or the present-day US, but, because it is a new world for both the viewer and the forest-dwelling protagonists, we get to see it through ‘new eyes’ and a ‘beginner’s mind.’ It’s a great movie, a cinematic masterpiece. It also allows us to ask how Mel Gibson, a devout Catholic and such a human sinner—as we all are, though when he does something terrible it’s in the new...2024-01-181h 04New Books in Christian Studies"Apocalypto" and Mel Gibson (with Jonathon Fessenden)The 2006 Mel Gibson movie, Apocalypto, takes us into a decadent Maya civilization in the Yucatan on the eve of the Spanish Conquest of Mexico. It could be a commentary on ancient Rome or the present-day US, but, because it is a new world for both the viewer and the forest-dwelling protagonists, we get to see it through ‘new eyes’ and a ‘beginner’s mind.’ It’s a great movie, a cinematic masterpiece. It also allows us to ask how Mel Gibson, a devout Catholic and such a human sinner—as we all are, though when he does something terrible it’s in the new...2024-01-181h 02Almost Good Catholics"Apocalypto" and Mel Gibson (with Jonathon Fessenden)The 2006 Mel Gibson movie, Apocalypto, takes us into a decadent Maya civilization in the Yucatan on the eve of the Spanish Conquest of Mexico. It could be a commentary on ancient Rome or the present-day US, but, because it is a new world for both the viewer and the forest-dwelling protagonists, we get to see it through ‘new eyes’ and a ‘beginner’s mind.’ It’s a great movie, a cinematic masterpiece. It also allows us to ask how Mel Gibson, a devout Catholic and such a human sinner—as we all are, though when he does something terrible it’s in the new...2024-01-181h 04New Books in FilmThe Fourth Wise Man (with Jonathon Fessenden)Jonathon Fessenden, theologian and editor of Missio Dei, invited me to talk about The Fourth Wise Man, the 1985 film based on the 1895 Henry van Dyke novella, The Other Wise Man. It was a tale I had known as a children’s story, but it was a delight to learn more about it, to watch this movie (a few times), and to share this discussion with Jonathon. Martin Sheen plays Artaban, a Persian astrologer, a magus (one of the magi), who is following the star to the birth of Christ. But he arrives too late and spends the next thirty years pur...2023-08-0453 minAlmost Good CatholicsThe Fourth Wise Man (with Jonathon Fessenden)Jonathon Fessenden, theologian and editor of Missio Dei, invited me to talk about The Fourth Wise Man, the 1985 film based on the 1895 Henry van Dyke novella, The Other Wise Man. It was a tale I had known as a children’s story, but it was a delight to learn more about it, to watch this movie (a few times), and to share this discussion with Jonathon. Martin Sheen plays Artaban, a Persian astrologer, a magus (one of the magi), who is following the star to the birth of Christ. But he arrives too late and spends the next thirty years pur...2023-08-0353 minNew Books in Christian StudiesThe Fourth Wise Man (with Jonathon Fessenden)Jonathon Fessenden, theologian and editor of Missio Dei, invited me to talk about The Fourth Wise Man, the 1985 film based on the 1895 Henry van Dyke novella, The Other Wise Man. It was a tale I had known as a children’s story, but it was a delight to learn more about it, to watch this movie (a few times), and to share this discussion with Jonathon. Martin Sheen plays Artaban, a Persian astrologer, a magus (one of the magi), who is following the star to the birth of Christ. But he arrives too late and spends the next thirty years pur...2023-08-0353 minNew Books in Catholic StudiesThe Fourth Wise Man (with Jonathon Fessenden)Jonathon Fessenden, theologian and editor of Missio Dei, invited me to talk about The Fourth Wise Man, the 1985 film based on the 1895 Henry van Dyke novella, The Other Wise Man. It was a tale I had known as a children’s story, but it was a delight to learn more about it, to watch this movie (a few times), and to share this discussion with Jonathon. Martin Sheen plays Artaban, a Persian astrologer, a magus (one of the magi), who is following the star to the birth of Christ. But he arrives too late and spends the next thirty years pur...2023-08-0353 minAlmost Good CatholicsThe Book of Job (with Jonathon Fessenden)Jonathon Fessenden, theologian and editor of Missio Dei, and I discussed this ancient and supremely interesting book on his podcast. The Book of Job is one of the oldest poems in our tradition. It is a joy to read and a puzzle to wonder about: why does God allow—even provoke—the Accuser to destroy Job’s life and test his faith? What does it mean for us when things are not going the way we hope? What is this troubled world, this vale of tears, for in the first place?
The video of our discussion of The Book of Job...2023-06-2252 minAlmost Good CatholicsCatholic Movies, Part 2 (with Jonathon Fessenden)Jonathon Fessenden and I talk about two movies, Roland Joffé’s The Mission (1986) and Fred Zinneman’s A Man for All Seasons (1966), both written by Robert Bolt, and both about men of Faith facing persecution and a sudden reversal of political fortune. These are themes that we began in our first discussion, Episode 37: Catholic Movies, Pt. 1.Jonathon Fessenden is a Catholic writer, composer, and teacher of theology. He has written about movies and worked in the industry as a composer, and continues to write music for film.
Jonathon Fessenden’s articles at Missio Dei.
The Mission (1986): Trailer, Wikiped...2023-04-201h 11Almost Good CatholicsCatholic Movies, Part 1: "Silence" and "The Scarlet and the Black"Jonathon Fessenden and I talk about two movies, Martin Scorsese’s Silence (2016) and Jerry London’s The Scarlet and the Black (1983) and what they say about how to confront evil in terrible times—seventeenth-century Tokugawa Japan in one film, and 1943 Nazi-occupied Rome in the other—how to face our shortcomings and lean on God even when He is hard to find. We also talk about Jonathon’s article about continuous prayer and his life and journey.Jonathon Fessenden is a Catholic writer, composer, and teacher of theology. He has written about movies and worked in the industry as a composer...2022-12-301h 03