Shows
The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard150 Gods by Grace: An Explanation of the Catholic Doctrine of DeificationIn this episode of the Art of Catholic podcast, Matthew Leonard and author and professor Dr. Daniel Keating explore the astonishing Catholic doctrine of Deification. 🟠 Join Matthew on a MARIAN Shrines PILGRIMAGE to FATIMA, LOURDES, and SPAIN in 2026: https://www.206tours.com/cms/sos/marianshrines/ 🟡 Watch Course 1 of the Science of Sainthood: INTRODUCTION TO REAL PRAYER for FREE: No credit card required No cancellation Just sign up and watch: https://www.scienceofsainthood.com 🟠 SUPPORT this podcast and Matthew's work to spread the Catholic faith: https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/donate The conversation explores w...
2026-01-081h 13The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard149 When God Becomes Real: Deeper Prayer & Divine Intimacy with Fr. Wayne Sattler🔵 Join Matthew on a MARIAN Shrines PILGRIMAGE to Fatima, Lourdes, and more in 2026: https://www.206tours.com/cms/sos/marianshrines/ 🟡 Watch Course 1 of the Science of Sainthood: INTRODUCTION TO REAL PRAYER for FREE: https://www.scienceofsainthood.com 🟠 SUPPORT this podcast and Matthew's work to spread the Catholic faith: https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/donate It's a simple, yet profound question. Is God a person or an idea to you? Seriously, take a moment and think about it. Do you really see him as a person or is he some kind...
2025-10-231h 38The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard147 Coached by the Curé: Spiritual Life Secrets From St. John VianneyWhat lessons does a parish priest who battled the Devil (and won) have to share with us? Matthew Leonard is joined by author Kevin Wells who has published a great, very unique little book that shares the practical secrets of a holy life from St. John Vianney, the Curé of Ars. 🔵 Join Matthew on a Marian Shrines PILGRIMAGE to Fatima, Lourdes, and more in 2026: https://www.206tours.com/cms/sos/marianshrines/ 🟡 Start your spiritual transformation right now! Watch Course 1 of the Science of Sainthood: Catholic Mysticism & the Beautiful Life of Grace for FREE: - No credit...
2025-06-1359 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard146 Understanding the Mysterious Power of BeautyMatthew Leonard is joined by author and professor John Mark Miravalle to discuss what beauty is - and why it matters. 🔵 Join Matthew on a Marian Shrines PILGRIMAGE to Fatima, Lourdes, and more in 2026: https://bit.ly/3KOesb3 🟡 Start your spiritual transformation right now for FREE with the Science of Sainthood: https://bit.ly/3Rtps1r 🟠 SUPPORT this podcast and Matthew's work to spread the Catholic faith: https://bit.ly/3VmgZOO Given the joyful peal of St. Peter's bells still echoing around the world marking the election of our new Holy Father, it...
2025-05-1454 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard145 Practical Spiritual Advice from a Former HermitMatthew Leonard is joined by Father Wayne Sattler, who lived the contemplative life as a hermit for years and has great wisdom to share on the spiritual life. 🟠 See the Group Starter Pack for Introduction to Real Prayer! https://bit.ly/3QRe9zs 🔵 Sign Up for the FREE Lent Streaming! https://bit.ly/3QhC5LX 🟢 Purchase an Introduction to Real Prayer Workbook from Science of Sainthood - https://bit.ly/3CP9Ot8 🔵 Purchase an Introduction to Real Prayer Workbook from Amazon - https://amzn.to/4i7y2h9 If I say "hermi...
2025-03-261h 30The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard143 Introduction to Real Prayer - Lesson OneLesson One of a beautiful, crash course on everything you need to know to move into a deeper, more fulfilling life of prayer according to the saints. This incredible series from Matthew Leonard will stream FREE this Lent. 🟡 Sign Up for the FREE Lent Streaming - CLICK HERE! 🟢 Purchase a Workbook 🔵 Watch Lesson One on YouTube If you've ever struggled to pray or find it difficult to take your relationship with God to the next level, you've got to see this new series from Matthew Leonard and the Science of Sainthood...
2025-02-1225 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard142 I Knew I Was Catholic When...A Conversation with Cameron Bertuzzi🟡 SIGN UP for the totally FREE Lenten Series on Prayer: https://bit.ly/40wDq6C 🟠 SUPPORT Matthew Leonard's work to spread the Catholic faith: https://bit.ly/3VqCONa Watch the full interview with Cameron Bertuzzi here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTglQJoqWtc It's hard to believe, but more than 26 years have passed since I became Catholic. Even so, I still get asked on a fairly regular basis about my conversion story. And I totally get it. Everyone loves a conversion story. After all, it's inspiring to hear a...
2025-01-2836 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard141 The Husband & the Hermit: A Powerful Story of Saving LoveIn this episode of the Art of Catholic, Matthew Leonard is joined by author Kevin Wells, who shares the powerful story of his wife Krista's battle with alcoholism, the impact it had on his spiritual life - and the incredible redemption God brought through the figure of a saintly priest. 🟡 Sign up for a totally FREE 2-week trial of the Science of Sainthood program: no credit card required, no cancellation, just sign up and watch! https://bit.ly/48n0GHp 🟢 Get Kevin's book, The Hermit: The Priest Who Saved a Soul, a Marriage, and a Family...
2024-10-241h 09The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard140 Nine Kids, Foreign Missions, & Peace in the Midst of PainGive it 3 minutes and you won't turn it off. This is a truly powerful and moving story of a man, a woman, and bevy of children who live a life totally abandoned to God...even in the midst of gut-wrenching sorrow and suffering. If you can listen without being inspired in some way, you may need to check your pulse. That's all I can say. Matthew 🔵 PLEASE consider donating to the Henderson family to enable them to continue their mission work: https://www.familymissionscompany.com/project/henderson-family/ 🟡 Start yo...
2024-10-041h 51The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard138 Isolation, Weakness, & Shattering the Lies We Tell Ourselves In today's Art of Catholic podcast, Matthew Leonard is joined by Catholic evangelist John Edwards, who shares stories and insights he's gained from guiding countless men to a deeper relationship with Christ. But don't think for a second this is an episode only for men. We hit topics that affect everyone like: Shattering the lies we tell ourselves Why isolation is the Devil's playground The most pressing problem haunting men (Listen up, ladies! You need to hear this.) The beautiful power of weakness Why community is absolutely essential for men & women This is a...
2024-06-141h 25The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard137 From Megachurch to MegaCatholic & the Beautiful Power of RetreatMatthew Leonard is joined by Betsy Orr, Founder and President of The Retreat at Heritage, who shares her incredible conversion story and tells us all about how God led her to create this truly unique new retreat center focused on beauty and silence. 🔵 Check out The Retreat at Heritage & book a spot at Matthew's retreat- "The Divine Whisper: Deeper Prayer & the Silent Embrace of God" from September 13 - 15, 2024: https://www.heritagega.org/book 🟡 Grab Matthew's FREE guide to Catholic meditation, 8 Ways To Jumpstart Your Prayer Life: https://bit.ly/4aKc2pp 🟠 SUPPORT this podcast a...
2024-04-2052 min
IMMPIN SEARCH OF… Hosted by Leonard NimoyIn the 1970s, kids interested in paranormal weirdness received an amazing new cornucopia of ...well, lots of stuff.
It was IN SEARCH OF... hosted by Leonard Nimoy.Support IMMPLinks:In Search of... (TV series) - WikipediaIn Search of... (TV series) | Media Wiki | FandomLeonard Nimoy - WikipediaWhose Line Is It Anyway Wiki | FandomPanspermia: Could life be delivered to a planet?Rod Serling - WikipediaPercival Lowell Biography | SpaceErich von Däniken - WikipediaPreviously on IMMP: Project U.F.O.Previously on IMMP: We Kept Watching SPACE: 1999, PROJECT U.F.O. and THE THIN M...
2024-03-1849 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard136 Priest & Beggar: The Jaw-Dropping Story of Venerable Fr. Aloysius SchwartzEvery now and then I come across someone or something in the Church that leaves me slack-jawed...in a good way. This is one of those times. If you've heard of Venerable Fr. Aloysius Schwartz, you know what I'm talking about. If not, prepare to have your mind blown. Matthew 🟡 Sign up for my TOTALLY FREE Lenten series on the Mass: https://bit.ly/3U9u7aX 🔵 To learn more about the Sisters of Mary and make a difference visit https://www.worldvillages.org/poverty/ Grab a copy of...
2024-02-131h 25The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard135 The Dark Roots of Feminism & the War on Men🟡 Science of Sainthood Website: https://bit.ly/3HqUpOg 🔴 Sign up for my TOTALLY FREE Lenten series on the Mass: https://bit.ly/3U9u7aX 🟢 Join Matthew on PILGRIMAGE to the HOLY LAND in 2025: https://bit.ly/3S26nCV 🔵 SUPPORT Matthew's work to spread the Catholic faith: https://bit.ly/3O3Xnw8 After spending many months working very hard on a new liturgy series, I thought "Why not have a pleasant, light podcast to unwind a little?" So I called my friend and Founder of Theology of Home, Dr. Carrie Gress, an...
2024-01-201h 12The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard134 The Terrible Sin of Telling the TruthIf this Art of Catholic Podcast episode whets your appetite to learn more, click below to get access to all of the video courses included in the Science of Sainthood! 🟡 Science of Sainthood Website: https://bit.ly/455arXL 🔴 Watch the FREE Science of Sainthood Course: CATHOLIC MYSTICISM & THE BEAUTIFUL LIFE OF GRACE for FREE! https://bit.ly/46aezXN 🟢 Join Matthew on a 5 Star PILGRIMAGE to the HOLY LAND https://bit.ly/3PCpq5t 🔵 SUPPORT Matthew's work to spread the Catholic faith https://bit.ly/48BfRfR ▶️ Please like and SHARE this video by click...
2023-09-2811 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard133 The Powerful Battle Plan to Bring Loved Ones Back to the ChurchIf this Art of Catholic Podcast episode whets your appetite to learn more, click below to get access to all of the video courses included in the Science of Sainthood! 🟡 Science of Sainthood Website: https://bit.ly/3RerqTV 🔴 Watch the FREE Science of Sainthood Course: CATHOLIC MYSTICISM & THE BEAUTIFUL LIFE OF GRACE for FREE! https://bit.ly/45FNCLp 🟢 Join Matthew on a 5 Star PILGRIMAGE to the HOLY LAND https://bit.ly/460YseG 🔵 SUPPORT Matthew's work to spread the Catholic faith https://bit.ly/3sOqGuL ▶️ Please like and SHARE this video by clicking t...
2023-09-0813 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard132 Catholic Psychologist's Take on Inner Healing & Forgiveness w/ Dr. Matthew BreuningerIf this Art of Catholic Podcast episode whets your appetite to learn more, click below to get access to all of the video courses included in the Science of Sainthood! 🟡 Science of Sainthood Website: https://bit.ly/3PhKWxw 🔴 Watch the FREE Science of Sainthood Course: CATHOLIC MYSTICISM & THE BEAUTIFUL LIFE OF GRACE for FREE! https://bit.ly/3YVavb3 🟢 Join Matthew on a 5 Star PILGRIMAGE to the HOLY LAND https://bit.ly/3OZdKcP 🔵 SUPPORT Matthew's work to spread the Catholic faith https://bit.ly/44BBtFP ▶️ Please like and SHARE this video by clicking t...
2023-08-311h 07The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard131 How Should Catholics Respond to AI?Is anyone else starting to get some Terminator vibes from the whole ChatGPT thing? Am I the only one who hears in their head an Austrian accent when reading back what it spits out? I'm kidding, of course....kind of :). I admit to sometimes asking, "What can this thing really do?" Because while I don't think Artificial Intelligence is quite to the point where we need to start worrying about robot overlords, there are definitely some legitimate concerns when it comes to the ethics behind this new technology. So how should Ca...
2023-07-0749 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard130 How a Millennial Mormon Discovered the Catholic ChurchWhen I asked my parish priest who the new guy with the blond ponytail in our parish was, I had no idea his conversion story would be so compelling that I'd end up asking him to be a guest on the Art of Catholic Podcast! In fact, Stephen Johnson's entire life story is a fascinating journey, one that took him from the Mormon faith of his childhood through atheism, New Age beliefs, and Evangelical Protestantism, and finally home to the Catholic Church. And all this while serving in the military as an Air Force Pararescueman...
2023-06-011h 15The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard129 The True Origin and Essence of the Catholic MassConfused by (and tired of) all the arguments about the Mass? Join Matthew Leonard and liturgical theologian Dr. David Fagerberg as they lift the veil and reveal the deeper currents of the Catholic Mass. It's the beautiful essence of the liturgy that no one else is talking about...but they should be. 🟢 Join Matthew on a 5 Star PILGRIMAGE to the HOLY LAND https://www.pilgrimages.com/sos/holyland/2024/ 🟡 FREE SCIENCE of SAINTHOOD VIDEO COURSE! Catholic Mysticism & the Beautiful Life of Grace - FREE! - https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/ (No cr...
2023-05-0456 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard128 What We Must Understand About Holy ThursdayThough we often tend to focus most of our attention on Good Friday and Holy Saturday during Holy Week and the Triduum, don't forget Holy Thursday. Join ScienceOfSainthood.com founder, Matthew Leonard, for a spiritual reflection on the immense power and purpose of Holy Thursday.
2023-04-0505 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard127 Total Abandonment to God's Will - Lesson OneThe idea of total abandonment to God can cause a lot of fear and agnst. After all, we like to think we're in control, when we're actually not. Join Matthew Leonard to watch the first full lesson of the FREE Lent series. 🟡 SIGN UP FOR THE FREE LENT STREAMING of Total Abandonment to God's Will - https://bit.ly/lent-lp-utube PLEASE HELP ME CREATE MORE FREE SERIES! 🔵 Donate & get some free stuff! https://donorbox.org/matthew-leonard# OR 🔵 Tax Deductible NON-PROFIT 501c3 at https://donorbox.org/thanks-for-supporting-matthew-leonard-s-evangelization-efforts
2023-01-1217 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard126 How Scripture Teaches the Immaculate Conception of MaryDon't think the Immaculate Conception is taught in the Bible? Think again. Matthew Leonard shows this dogma of the Catholic Church is present from beginning to end of Scripture. 🟡 GET THE FREE VIDEO COURSE! Get the first course in the Science of Sainthood - Catholic Mysticism & the Beautiful Life of Grace - FREE! - https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/
2022-12-0828 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard125 The Mystical Teaching of St. John of the CrossSt. John of the Cross is one of the most celebrated, yet misunderstood spiritual teachers in the Catholic faith. But the more we understand the mystical and powerful teaching of this spiritual giant, the more deeply we'll move into relationship with Christ. Join Matthew Leonard and Fr. Donald Haggerty as they unveil the beautiful teaching of the Mystical Doctor. Topics covered include: • What are some common obstacles to deeper prayer? • What is the real role of asceticism? • The importance of "mental austerity" • The theme of darkness in John of the Cross...
2022-11-1055 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard124 How Catholics Read and Interpret ScriptureEver wondered exactly how Catholics are supposed to interpret and read the Bible? Is there a pattern or priority order we're supposed to follow? Matthew Leonard is joined by Father Michael Mitchell and his brother, Father Jason Mitchell, for a highly informative talk on the 4 senses of Scripture and the basics of interpretation. This is really important because if you don't really know how to approach Scripture properly, not only will your personal reading suffer, but your participation in the mass will suffer, as well...and that would be a tragedy of biblical proportions.
2022-10-0454 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard123 Practicing Prayer - A Powerful Guided Audio Meditation from St. Francis de SalesPrayer is an art that needs to be practiced properly and authentic meditation is an absolutely necessary part of every Catholic's day. As St. Teresa of Avila declared, "How often I failed in my duty to God, because I was not leaning on the strong pillar of prayer." In this episode, ScienceOfSainthood.com founder, Matthew Leonard, provides a primer on Catholic meditation and then provides a guided audio meditation based on the spiritual classic "Introduction to the Devout Life" by St. Francis de Sales. 🟡 EXPERIENCE THE FIRST COURSE IN THE SCIENCE OF SAINTHOOD FOR FREE! - Ca...
2022-08-3021 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard122 The Most Controversial Catholic Teaching About Mary & the Ray Comfort ProblemEver wondered why the Catholic Church teaches Mary is the Mediatrix of Graces and Co-redemptix? It certainly sounds controversial doesn't it? Even a lot of Catholics don't fully understand it, much less Protestants. In fact, famous Protestant evangelist Dr. Ray Comfort - popular for the "Way of the Master" series with actor Kirk Cameron - recently posted a video that maligned Catholics for our beliefs about Our Lady - a video that showed Matthew Leonard teaching about Mary - so Matthew decided to respond. 🟡 EXPERIENCE THE FIRST VIDEO COURSE IN THE SCIENCE OF SAINTHOOD FOR FREE...
2022-07-0130 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard121 How the BOLD Virtue of Prudence Empowers Your LifeMatthew Leonard is joined by Fr. Gregory Pine to dive into the power of the virtue of prudence. Everyone thinks prudence equals pansy. Not even close. This is an extremely enlightening discussion that can help you boldly order your life and understand why prudence has a kind of pride of place in the virtues. 🟡 SIGN UP for the FREE STREAMING of St. Teresa of Avila's 9 Grades of Prayer! https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/
2022-03-0847 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard120 St Teresa of Avila's 9 Grades of Prayer - Lesson OneThis is the first lesson of a powerful, FREE Lenten video series by Matthew Leonard and the Science of Sainthood. Let the Doctor of Prayer lead into the inferno of Christ's love! Make Lent matter this year! Sign up at www.ScienceOfSainthood.com.
2022-02-0923 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew LeonardA Powerful Introduction to the Spiritual Life with Brant PitreMatthew Leonard and Brant Pitre dive into a discussion of meditation and authentic Catholic spirituality that will leave you thirsting for God. The spiritual life is what Jesus calls the "one thing necessary" in Luke 10:42. Topics covered include: What are the Jewish roots of prayer? How specific virtues oppose specific vices What are the Jewish roots of prayer? Why meditation is a key to happiness What does it mean to love the Lord with "all your mind" What is the difference between meditation and contemplation? 🟡 Experience Powerful FREE Video Lessons of Authentic Catholic Spiritual formation in t...
2021-11-291h 16The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard117: Marxism, the Real Origins of "Woke," and the Christian ResponseHow in the world did we get here? How have things gone so far downhill, so fast? Organized violence. Churches burning. Society in chaos on multiple levels. What has happened? Join Matthew Leonard and author Noelle Mering as they zero in on the "woke" movement – what it is, where it comes from, and what it wants. But this isn't about politics. It's about spirituality. It's about the human person. It's about an attempted radical reshaping of who we are in and of ourselves that is fundamentally flawed and anti-Christian. 🟡 Experience 20 FREE Video Lessons of aut...
2021-10-1458 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew LeonardMini-Cast: Proof St. Joseph was NOT an Old Man with Brant PitreDr. Brant Pitre joins Matthew Leonard to discuss why - contrary to popular opinion - we can pretty much know St. Joseph wasn't an elderly man who was simply commissioned to care for Mary like a grandpa. Also, make sure to check out Matthew and Brant's other St. Joseph Youtube video titled Dr. Brant Pitre Reveals the Scriptural Secrets of St Joseph. https://youtu.be/YimyO1YZMIY 🟡 Experience 20 FREE Video Lessons of Authentic, Powerful Catholic Spiritual formation in the SCIENCE OF SAINTHOOD! https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/ 🔵 PLEASE HELP ME SPREAD THE CATHOLIC FAITH BY SUPPO...
2021-09-2110 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard116: Dr. Brant Pitre Reveals the Scriptural Secrets of St. JosephThink you've heard it all about St. Joseph? Think again. Matthew Leonard is joined by Dr. Brant Pitre for a scintillating discussion that reveals some incredible Scriptural insights and new revelations about Our Lord's earthly father. You do NOT want to miss this episode! GET 20 FREE Video Lessons of incredible spiritual formation in the SCIENCE OF SAINTHOOD! Text SAINT to 66866 (US Only) OR go to ScienceofSainthood.com. Matthew and Brant discuss: - The secret identity of St. Joseph - The important clues regarding Joseph in the genealogy of St. Matthew
2021-08-3146 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard115 How to Fast Correctly and the Spiritual Rhythm of LifeIf you've ever struggled with fasting, this episode is going to radically change your whole perspective and practice of this powerful practice of the faith. Matthew Leonard is joined by Dr. Jay Richards on the Art of Catholic to discuss a whole new way to approach the topic of fasting. GET 2 FREE WEEKS of the SCIENCE OF SAINTHOOD! Text SAINT to 66866 (US Only) OR go to 🟠 https://www.nextlevelcatholicacademy.com/2-week-free-trial In this episode we'll discuss: - The critical idea that humans are unique unions of body and soul - So...
2021-07-2846 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard114: Can You Really Suffer with Joy and Tame the Tongue?Join Matthew Leonard and Shane Kapler in a powerful discussion of how St. James teaches us to suffer with joy and tame our tongues...and a whole lot more (including why Martin Luther hated this book of the Bible). 🟠 GET 2 FREE WEEKS of the SCIENCE OF SAINTHOOD! Text SAINT to 66866 (US Only) OR go to https://www.nextlevelcatholicacademy.com/2-week-free-trial In this episode we'll discuss: - How to endure suffering joyfully - What to do when we suffer - How suffering is related to deification - How your...
2021-05-2051 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard113: Deeper Prayer with Archbishop Fulton SheenArchbishop Fulton Sheen was one of the greatest Catholic evangelists of our time. He reached millions of souls every week with the gospel of Christ. But it didn't just happen. Sheen had a secret weapon. It was a deep prayer life that took on a very specific form. Join Matthew Leonard and Allan Smith as they discuss the incredible spiritual life of this amazing man of God and how we can learn to pray like him. 🟠 GET 2 FREE WEEKS of the SCIENCE OF SAINTHOOD! Text SAINT to 66866 (US Only) OR go to: https://www.nextlevelcatholicacademy.com/2-week-free-trial
2021-04-201h 00
The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard112 Developing a Powerful Theology of Home with Carrie GressMatthew Leonard and Dr. Carrie Gress discuss the power and evangelistic necessity of a proper theology of home. This is a huge topic for both Catholic men and women. After all, we all live in homes! The relationship between "home" and your spiritual life How modern culture asks men to become like women (and vice-versa) How a Catholic theology of home is different from Protestantism and other faiths The prime role of beauty in the home • Why Scripture emphasizes hospitality and the importance of its role How Our Lady teaches us a theology of home
2021-03-1145 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard112 Developing a Powerful Theology of Home with Carrie GressMatthew Leonard and Dr. Carrie Gress discuss the power and evangelistic necessity of a proper theology of home. This is a huge topic for both Catholic men and women. After all, we all live in homes! The relationship between "home" and your spiritual life How modern culture asks men to become like women (and vice-versa) How a Catholic theology of home is different from Protestantism and other faiths The prime role of beauty in the home • Why Scripture emphasizes hospitality and the importance of its role How Our Lady teaches us a theology of home 🔴 2 FREE WEEKS of the...
2021-03-1145 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard108: Would You Still Convert to Catholicism?The Catholic Church is facing a lot of serious difficulties. But should the current problems discourage conversion? Join Matthew Leonard and EWTN morning host Matt Swaim in a conversation about Matt's winding road to Catholicism and an honest discussion of where the Church stands today. Matt's in the thick of all the news on a daily basis because of his radio show. He's also constantly dealing with potential converts through his work at the Coming Home Network, so his is a very interesting take. For cradle Catholics, it's a unique look into the Evangelical world...
2020-11-181h 21The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard108: Would You Still Convert to Catholicism?The Catholic Church is facing a lot of serious difficulties. But should the current problems discourage conversion? Join Matthew Leonard and EWTN morning host Matt Swaim in a conversation about Matt's winding road to Catholicism and an honest discussion of where the Church stands today. Matt’s in the thick of all the news on a daily basis because of his radio show. He’s also constantly dealing with potential converts through his work at the Coming Home Network, so his is a very interesting take. For cradle Catholics, it's a unique look into the Evangelical world. For converts (or pote...
2020-11-181h 21The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard107 Understanding the Crisis of Catholic MenMen have become caricatures in modern culture. And it's had a big impact even inside the Catholic Church. This has to change...immediately. But for that to happen, we have to recognize the deeper issues. There are issues of language, liturgy, and a true understanding of human nature. But there is a solution. Join Matthew Leonard in an honest, engaging, hopeful discussion with a dynamic young priest named Fr. Patrick Schultz. This is NOT an episode for men only. It's a topic that deeply affects every single Catholic.
2020-11-041h 04The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard107 Understanding the Crisis of Catholic MenMen have become caricatures in modern culture. And it’s had a big impact even inside the Catholic Church. This has to change...immediately. But for that to happen, we have to recognize the deeper issues. There are issues of language, liturgy, and a true understanding of human nature. But there is a solution. Join Matthew Leonard in an honest, engaging, hopeful discussion with a dynamic young priest named Fr. Patrick Schultz. This is NOT an episode for men only. It’s a topic that deeply affects every single Catholic.
2020-11-041h 04The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard106 Cool Backstories from the Fatima MovieOur Lady of Fatima is one of the most beloved of all Catholic devotions. It's a powerful story of prayer, penance, and transformation that has inspired the world for more than a century. On this Art of Catholic episode, Matthew Leonard is joined by producer Dick Lyles, to talk about some of the little-known backstories of how the movie was made and the impact it's having even on the Protestant world. Dick is a former EWTN and Relevant Radio host, now serving as producer for Origin Entertainment, the maker of the Fatima movie.
2020-10-0750 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard106 Cool Backstories from the Fatima MovieOur Lady of Fatima is one of the most beloved of all Catholic devotions. It's a powerful story of prayer, penance, and transformation that has inspired the world for more than a century. On this Art of Catholic episode, Matthew Leonard is joined by producer Dick Lyles, to talk about some of the little-known backstories of how the movie was made and the impact it's having even on the Protestant world. Dick is a former EWTN and Relevant Radio host, now serving as producer for Origin Entertainment, the maker of the Fatima movie.
2020-10-0750 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard105: Harnessing the Power of Catholic Mysticism & Deep PrayerFar too many Catholics are unaware of the transformative power of the Catholic mystical tradition, especially deep meditative and contemplative prayer. There is an urgent need to understand the absolute necessity of diving into authentic Catholic spirituality given to us by spiritual giants like Sts. Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, Francis de Sales, and many others. If you want your life to be transformed, check out this dynamic conversation between Matthew Leonard, Josh Mazrin, and Kyle VanDuser on the Art of Catholic podcast.
2020-09-231h 06The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard105: Harnessing the Power of Catholic Mysticism & Deep PrayerFar too many Catholics are unaware of the transformative power of the Catholic mystical tradition, especially deep meditative and contemplative prayer. There is an urgent need to understand the absolute necessity of diving into authentic Catholic spirituality given to us by spiritual giants like Sts. Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, Francis de Sales, and many others. If you want your life to be transformed, check out this dynamic conversation between Matthew Leonard, Josh Mazrin, and Kyle VanDuser on the Art of Catholic podcast.
2020-09-231h 06The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard104 Should a Catholic Always Obey?Is there ever a time when obedience is no longer a virtue? Is there a point when a Catholic can abandon ship? What about when there are doubts concerning particular matters or teaching? These are real issues and can confusing to a lot of Catholics. On this Art of Catholic, Matthew Leonard lays out some basic principles for Catholics to keep in mind. After laying out some preliminary remarks and advice, he then shares a video lesson on the virtue of obedience from the Science of Sainthood in Next Level Catholic Academy. Given all the confusion in the Church right...
2020-08-2829 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard104 Should a Catholic Always Obey?Is there ever a time when obedience is no longer a virtue? Is there a point when a Catholic can abandon ship? What about when there are doubts concerning particular matters or teaching? These are real issues and can confusing to a lot of Catholics. On this Art of Catholic, Matthew Leonard lays out some basic principles for Catholics to keep in mind. After laying out some preliminary remarks and advice, he then shares a video lesson on the virtue of obedience from the Science of Sainthood in Next Level Catholic Academy. Given...
2020-08-2829 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard103 How John Paul II Answers the Modern CrisisHumanity is having an identity crisis of major proportions. People don't know who they are. And it's literally wreaking havoc across the world at this very instant. And St. John Paul II saw it coming. In fact, he provided the answers before many of the questions were even posed. Expanding upon the work of St. Thomas Aquinas and others, he developed a philosophy of the person called, appropriately, "personalism." It's a way to make sense of who we are and the dignity each of us possesses. Matthew Leonard and Dr. John Crosby, an eminent philosopher...
2020-08-0451 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard103 How John Paul II Answers the Modern CrisisHumanity is having an identity crisis of major proportions. People don’t know who they are. And it’s literally wreaking havoc across the world at this very instant. And St. John Paul II saw it coming. In fact, he provided the answers before many of the questions were even posed. Expanding upon the work of St. Thomas Aquinas and others, he developed a philosophy of the person called, appropriately, “personalism.” It’s a way to make sense of who we are and the dignity each of us possesses. Matthew Leonard and Dr. John Crosby, an eminent philosopher at Franciscan University...
2020-08-0451 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard102: Finding Hope and Divine Mercy Amidst Terrible TragedyEven in the face of terrible tragedy like suicide, Catholic doctrine is clear that there is always hope. This is particularly the message of Divine Mercy taught by St. Faustina Kowalska (originator of the Divine Mercy Chaplet). Unfortunately, too many Catholics don't truly understand what the Catholic Church has to say in these matters. It's important not only for those who may have died, but for the sake of those left behind. Join Matthew Leonard and Fr. Chris Alar of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception, for an honest and powerful look at hope...
2020-07-091h 00The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard102: Finding Hope and Divine Mercy Amidst Terrible TragedyEven in the face of terrible tragedy like suicide, Catholic doctrine is clear that there is always hope. This is particularly the message of Divine Mercy taught by St. Faustina Kowalska (originator of the Divine Mercy Chaplet). Unfortunately, too many Catholics don't truly understand what the Catholic Church has to say in these matters. It's important not only for those who may have died, but for the sake of those left behind. Join Matthew Leonard and Fr. Chris Alar of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception, for an honest and powerful look at hope and Divine Mercy in action.
2020-07-091h 00The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard006: Bible Basics with John BergsmaMatthew Leonard interviews Dr. John Bergsma about his conversion to Catholicism, as well as discussing an overview of all of salvation history.
2020-06-1541 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard006: Bible Basics with John BergsmaMatthew Leonard interviews Dr. John Bergsma about his conversion to Catholicism, as well as discussing an overview of all of salvation history.
2020-06-1541 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard100: Correcting the Christian View of DeathIn this special 100th episode of the Art of Catholic, Matthew Leonard brings back John Henry Crosby, founder and president of the Hildebrand Project for a fascinating discussion revolving around a small, but powerful book titled Jaws of Death: Gate of Heaven by famous 20th philosopher Dietrich von Hildebrand.
2020-05-261h 02The Art of Catholic with Matthew LeonardUnderstanding Suffering through the Eyes of St. Paulhttps://youtu.be/0xwGSThPczQ SCROLL DOWN FOR AUDIO ONLY It's impossible to read St. Paul's letters without coming across the topic of suffering. It's everywhere. And it's because the question of suffering is constantly nagging us. Why do we suffer? What does it mean? If God loves us, how come we suffer? Enter St. Paul. His teaching is absolutely essential to the understanding of suffering and how it can become beautifully redemptive through the Cross of Christ. So to unpack his amazing (very Catholic) teaching, I asked Dr. John Kincaid, an expert on St. Paul, to join me on the Ar...
2020-04-101h 12The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard098: Spiritual Warfare & the Interior Life with Dan BurkeWhat if I told you the game has changed? What if I told you that things have gotten so serious that there are often-ignored spiritual truths we have to be aware of or we're not going to survive the current climate? The reality is that we are at war. The forces of darkness are trying to destroy your life. They're trying to kill you. And it appears the battle has intensified, which means you have to be ready. And that's why I asked EWTN's Dan Burke to come on to the Art of Catholic and discuss his new book Spiritual...
2020-03-061h 09The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard097: Consecration to St. Joseph: Crazy or Crucial?Matthew Leonard interviews Fr. Don Calloway about why now is the right time to consecrate yourself to St. Joseph.
2020-01-3052 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard096: Unrepeatable: How To Discover Your Unique CallingThis is not a normal interview. While I typically dive into subjects like Catholic spirituality, Scripture, and such, today I'm diving into you. That sounds weird, I know. Allow me to explain. My guests on the Art of Catholic are two gentleman dedicated to helping Catholics find their personal vocation. And before you say, "I'm already married" or "I'm going to be a nun." or "I'm (fill in the blank)."...wait!! I'm talking about something far beyond your "state in life". Luke Burgis and Dr. Joshua Miller have written an amazing book titled "Unrepeatable: Cultivating the Unique Calling of Every...
2019-12-1754 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard095: Making Sense of the Dark Passages of the BibleFeaturing Curtis Mitch https://youtu.be/OeQGhdrb2VY Have you ever read something in the Bible and thought, "Yikes! That doesn't sound like a loving God!" There are a lot of difficult events (not to mention direct instructions from God) that cause 21st century Christians a lot of angst. Of particular note is the extreme violence ordered by God against seemingly innocent people. So what gives? How does this square with the love taught by Christ and His Church? To provide some answers, I brought in Curtis Mitch. He's one of the sharpest biblical minds in the Catholic Church. (For...
2019-11-121h 09The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard094: Unlocking Catholic Secrets of the Dead Sea ScrollsFeaturing Dr. John Bergsma
https://youtu.be/pi1Qr6_Cko4
Discovered in 1946 by a guy throwing rocks into a cave, the Dead Sea Scrolls have been called "the greatest archeological find of the 20th century."
And they're totally Catholic!
Join Matthew Leonard and scrolls expert Dr. John Bergsma as they unlock some very illuminating secrets from these famous scrolls.
2019-10-081h 05The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard094: Unlocking Catholic Secrets of the Dead Sea ScrollsFeaturing Dr. John Bergsma https://youtu.be/pi1Qr6_Cko4 Discovered in 1946 by a guy throwing rocks into a cave, the Dead Sea Scrolls have been called "the greatest archeological find of the 20th century." And they're totally Catholic! Join Matthew Leonard and scrolls expert Dr. John Bergsma as they unlock some very illuminating secrets from these famous scrolls. It's a conversation that may help fill in some cracks you didn't even realize were there. Among other things they'll cover: What the Scrolls teach us about the EucharistThe mysterious Essenes and Christ's relationship to themWhy Matthew, Mark, and Luke say...
2019-10-081h 05The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard093: God & EvolutionFeaturing Dr. Jay Richards https://youtu.be/y9APG8CDzjM The confusion is pervasive. The consequences are catastrophic. What is a Catholic supposed to believe when it comes to evolution? Is it okay or not? Can Darwinism be reconciled with Church teaching as many argue (or even assume)? To answer these (and many other related questions), I brought in a man I consider to have one of the most remarkable minds in the Catholic Church. His name is Dr. Jay Richards, a New York Times best-selling author and convert to Catholicism (from Calvinism). Jay is an Assistant Research Professor in t...
2019-09-0552 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard092: The Anti-Mary…Exposed!Featuring Dr. Carrie Gress https://youtu.be/Za5oeIDXnrU Every now and then you come across someone who opens your eyes to the reality behind the curtain a little bit more. My guest just tore the whole curtain down. Dr. Carrie Gress has written an eye-popping exposé titled, The Anti-Mary Exposed: Rescuing Culture from Toxic Femininity. It's a barn-burner. And before any of you men think, "Well, I guess I'll go find something a little more manly..." STOP! This is something you NEED to hear. There is a war going on for the hearts and minds of your wives, daughters, s...
2019-08-2153 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard091: Living with Sheen: A Conversation with the Remarkable Msgr. Hilary FrancoEvery now and then you meet a person whose life blows your mind. I recently met that guy while in Israel. His name is Msgr. Hilary Franco, a priest of 64 years and unlike anyone you've ever encountered. He's a living treasure-trove of knowledge spanning the last six decades of Church history. But it's his personal history that wows. (You can read all about it in his incredible memoir Bishop Sheen: Mentor and Friend.) What makes his life so special? Only the fact that he lived and worked very closely for years with two of the most incredible Catholics in the...
2019-07-3151 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard090: Salvation – What Every Catholic Needs to Understandhttps://youtu.be/NkpOkZ842g4 The infection has gone deep. Case in point...Several years ago I was at a very orthodox Catholic conference on the West Coast. Great talks. Great people. Great event. Then the wheels came off. During the homily at Mass, the priest gave a completely anti-Catholic homily. He didn't do it on purpose, but it was anti-Catholic nonetheless. I was flabbergasted. I turned to a friend seated next to me, and asked, "Are you hearing what I'm hearing?" He nodded, just as frustrated as I was. Later, we proceeded to have a conversation about one of...
2019-07-101h 24The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard089: John Michael Talbot on Conversion & CommunityI've met a lot of converts to Catholicism over the years. But John Michael Talbot is unique, to say the least. And it's not just because he's a multi-platinum selling, Grammy / Dove award winning Contemporary Christian Music pioneer. It's more. Lots of people convert, but John Michael has embarked on a full-fledged movement to transform the way Catholics live...which continues to this day. And the story of his life will both intrigue, inspire, and perhaps even provoke you to take a look at your own life. It did for me. Among other things we'll cover: How he became CatholicHow...
2019-05-3053 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard088: The Astounding Doctrine of DeificationThere is one doctrine of the Church that changes everything...and I mean everything! And once you get it, your understanding of salvation is radically transformed. I'm talking about deification. Yup! You and I are were created to be divine! St. Peter declares very clearly that we are destined to become a "partakers" of the divine nature of God (2 Pt 1:4). But that's not the only place in Scripture this amazing doctrine is found. It's all over the place! So to unpack what it is and where it's found in the Bible, I invited Curtis Mitch on to the Art of...
2019-04-2556 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard087: How To Think Like a CatholicFeaturing Michael Matheson Miller Everything has gone haywire. At every corner our traditional way of life is being undermined by forces that seem to come from every direction. It's a constant assault. And it's extremely easy for a Catholic to get caught up in being a "child of the times" without even realizing it. It's a slippery slope. We've got to be able to identify and understand the danger and consequences of the ideological war that is attempting to re-define truth, freedom, and reality itself. So I turned to Michael Matheson Miller for help. He's a sought after public speaker...
2019-04-1059 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard086: Dr. Brant Pitre Blows Your Mind on Maryhttps://youtu.be/jmii0zRKP5A I've got ten bucks that says you've never heard a lot of this stuff. When I was coming into the Church 20 years ago, I struggled mightily with the Virgin Mary. Partly, it was because I couldn't find Marian doctrine and devotion in Sacred Scripture. I was blind. Eventually, I came to realize how deeply Mary is woven into the fabric of the sacred text once you know how to really read the Bible. But Brant Pitre just blew my mind on a few things I'd never heard. (That's saying something given the fact that...
2019-03-141h 11The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard085: Discerning God's Will with St. Ignatius of LoyolaDecisions, decisions... Life holds a lot of options and it's often hard to know which way to go, especially when it comes to serious, life-changing matters. Thankfully, we've got help. St. Ignatius of Loyola penned his famous Spiritual Exercises to enable people to discern the spirits - discern God's will for their lives. And the great thing is that's it's not pie-in-the-sky. It's super practical and down-to-earth. In fact, understanding his Exercises can save you a lot of headache and heartache. So join me and one of the most intelligent and holy priests I know, Fr. Aaron Pidel, SJ, for...
2019-02-141h 17The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard084: Heresy or Holy? The Question of Marian Consecration"'Slaves of Mary?' Are you kidding me?" That was my first (second, third...tenth) reaction to the words of St. Louis de Montfort in True Devotion to Mary, the classic text on our topic. The whole idea of consecrating yourself to anyone other than Jesus Christ made zero sense to me. Not anymore. I now understand and completely embrace the whole idea of consecration to Our Lady. And I can tell you from experience that it's life-changing. It can change yours, too. So join me for a conversation on the deep power and beauty of Marian consecration with Joshua Ma...
2018-12-1141 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard083: Archbishop Vigano & the Power of FearNot sure if you caught it, but Archbishop Vigano recently told the American bishops they'd better be afraid...very afraid. Why? Because if you want to become a saint, the first thing you need is fear. Fear isn't typically the first thing that pops into your mind when you think about growth in sanctity, but it's a must. Not any old fear, of course...we're talking fear of the Lord - one of the most powerful gifts of the Holy Spirit (see Isaiah 11). And Archbishop Vigano's recent letter nails it. So in this episode of the Art of Catholic podcast...
2018-11-1924 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard082: Historical Holiness: How Religious Orders Illumine the Path to PerfectionYes, some look like Jedi hippies. Yes, their giant rosaries look like medieval weapons. Yes, many haven't worn socks in a very long time. But they're the real deal. About whom am I talking? Catholics with a religious vocation. You know...monks, nuns, and such. And while most of us aren't called to their life, we should pay very close attention to them. Why? Because they can show laity the pursuit of holiness in its essential contours. In other words, they can show us the way to heaven. So in order to get inside the life and mind of the "...
2018-10-3158 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard081: Kings, Prophets, & PopesWhat should we do? That's the question that keeps coming up in my conversations and email exchanges. What is the appropriate response of faithful Catholics to this ongoing crisis? While some are leaving and others are all-out attacking, most of us are caught somewhere in the middle. We've always thought of ourselves as faithful Catholics. We've always honored our priests and bishops. We've always been a bit awed by the papacy. So we're torn. We want this all to be fixed, but don't know what tools are really at our disposal. We're not totally sure what attitude and posture should...
2018-09-2657 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard080: On the Current Crisis in the Catholic ChurchThese are not easy times for Catholics. I've received a lot of emails from people, and had a lot of conversations over the last several weeks with Catholics on the brink of despair. How could this happen? What is going on? What are we going to do? I share your pain and confusion...deeply. And while I'm horrified by daily revelations about the cancer that is eating our Church alive, I also know that Christ is King and His Church will endure. In this episode of the Art of Catholic I'm going to weigh in on where I find myself...
2018-08-3026 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard064: Holy Week Special – Meditations on the Sorrowful MysteriesHoly Week is upon us. Hasn't Lent flown by? It seems like Ash Wednesday was just a couple weeks ago. And oftentimes we get to this point thinking we could have done a lot more...So let's do something about it. In this episode of the Art of Catholic, we're not going to just talk about theology. We're going to enter into it. How? By meditating on the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary as a kind of progression or maturation in the spiritual life. What do I mean by that? Well, it seems to me that the Sorrowful Mysteries of th...
2017-04-1137 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard063: Why Beauty Is Crucial…Especially for CatholicsIt might seem a bit odd to discuss beauty at the beginning of Lent. Actually, I find it totally appropriate. After all, this is a season of stripping away the outer layers of this world and conforming ourselves to Him who is beauty. If God is the Beatific Vision, then beauty matters all the time...perhaps especially in Lent. The topic of beauty is something I've wanted to address for a long time because it's all too often ignored. I would go so far as to say that it is crucial for Catholics to reacquire a true understanding and appreciation fo...
2017-03-0255 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard062: The Hidden Power of KindnessMake no mistake, this episode is going to challenge you. But it can also dramatically transform your relationships with other people...and God. It's full of deep and practical wisdom that you can start to practice immediately. Our topic is kindness - real kindness - the kindness identified by St. Paul in Galatians. In other words, this is way beyond the "be nice to one another" stuff we learned in pre-school. It's the virtue that radically re-arranges our priorities and changes the world. My guest is Charlie McKinney, the President of Sophia Institute Press. He's on the show to discuss an ext...
2017-02-0958 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard061: Music Wars with Mike AquilinaIt sounds like a wild exaggeration. But according to best-selling author Mike Aquilina (a generally trustworthy source), it was music that saved the ancient world from its descent into despair. My first thought was "Seriously?" Yep. He's not kidding. It's all in his book "How the Choir Converted the Word: Through Hymns, With Hymns, And In Hymns" from Emmaus Road Publishing. (The book is worth a look for the subtitle alone.) Given the state of some current liturgical music, I was skeptical to say the least. (I probably should have told the publisher that before I agreed to blurb the b...
2017-01-2651 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard060: Advent-Christmas Typology MinicastA little bit of knowledge goes a long way...especially when it comes to prayer and Scripture. In fact, you don't need to have any hardcore theological training or lots of letters after your name to get a lot out of prayer. That said, actually studying the Bible - what Pope Benedict XVI calls the "soul of theology" - will put your prayer life on steroids (which is still legal). And a key to understanding Scripture is known as typology. ("Ty-what?") Typology is a 25 cent word that shows how the people, places and events of the Old Testament point forward to...
2016-12-1526 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard059: Unleashing the Rosary with Fr. Don CallowayIn case you hadn't noticed, we're at war. We need a weapon. A powerful one. One feared by the Devil. Most of us already have one. It's called the rosary. And if wielded properly it cuts through the darkness like a light saber (especially if it's glow-in-the-dark:). In this special episode of The Art of Catholic, I interview Fr. Donald Calloway, author, speaker, and Vicar Provincial of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. He knows the rosary. In fact, he wrote a great book on it titled Champions of the Rosary: The History and Heroes of a Spiritual Weapon. So I...
2016-12-011h 03The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard058: Why the Catholic Priesthood is Totally BiblicalI've heard it. You've heard it. I used to even say it! "The Catholic priesthood isn't biblical."...Wrong! If you were to boil the (so-called) Protestant Reformation down to its essence, it basically did away with the priesthood. Most Protestants have no sacramental life because there are no priests to give them the sacraments. (Most don't believe in the sacraments at all.) They believe (and I realize I'm painting with a broad brush here) in something called "the priesthood of all believers." After all, 1 Peter 2:5 says, "and like living stones be yourselves built into a spiritual house, to be a hol...
2016-11-1859 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard056: The Scariest Verse in Scripture…and How To Survive ItA lot of passages in Scripture make me uncomfortable. But this one scares the dickens out of me. In Matthew 12:36, Jesus declares "I tell you, on the day of judgment men will render account for every careless word they utter." Uhhh..."every careless word"? (Insert teeth chattering.) Now I don't know about you, but I've said some pretty ridiculous things in my life...things for which I would love to take the eternal Etch A Sketch, turn it upside down, and shake. (By the way, did I ever tell you I was in a 1970s Etch A Sketch commercial with m...
2016-10-2143 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard055: Unveiling the 3 Secrets of FatimaThey're the most talked about "secrets" in the world. But they're often misunderstood. In July, 1917, Our Lady appeared to three children and revealed to them several amazing visions and prophecies that all came true. They've become known as the 3 Secrets of Fatima. And while we know what they are, they're not just part of the past. They're relevant now...more than ever. There's no doubt that truly understanding and applying the message of Mary at Fatima can change the world! So in celebration of the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary (Oct 7th) and the fact that the 100th...
2016-10-0747 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard054: Understanding Extreme Violence in the BibleIt's not a pretty topic. But it has to be addressed. The extreme violence in Sacred Scripture (particularly the Old Testament) understandably causes a lot of people problems. After all, how are we supposed to reconcile this kind of bloodshed with a loving, merciful God? Why did He command it? How could He command it? Didn't Jesus say to love your neighbor and pray for your enemies? Sometimes what we read just doesn't seem to square with who we know Him to be. And you can't, as some do, simply gloss over or ignore this material. We're not. In fact, we'r...
2016-09-2356 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard053: The Love That Made Mother TeresaIt's no surprise. Mother Teresa is the newest saint of the Catholic Church. I became Catholic the year after she died. I hadn't paid her much attention. And yet along with the rest of the world, I knew she was holy. Sure, there were detractors. There always are. They're nuts. While most people loved and respected Mother Teresa, she also made them uneasy. Let's be honest, she made a lot of Catholics uneasy! Hers might have been the "little way" of her namesake St. Therese of Lisieux, but it wasn't an easy way. Sainthood never is. In this episode I brough...
2016-09-0551 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard052: Catholic Q&A – Mary/Contraception/SufferingWe've all got questions. None more important then those dealing with our faith. Not long ago, I invited listeners to send me questions or issues with which they're dealing. I got some great responses from all over the world. So in this special episode of The Art of Catholic, we're going to deal with a few of them. (Some of these I deal with in my first book Louder Than Words: The Art of Living as a Catholic...the book which inspired the podcast!) Some of the important issues we'll discuss include: What to do when you really don't feel a re...
2016-08-2558 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard051: Clearing Up the CrusadesWe've all heard it before - "The Catholic Church is all about violence and power. Just look at the Crusades! They're a perfect example!" The problem (for critics of the Church) is that idea is horse-hockey. That said, most of us have little-to-no understanding of the true heart of the Crusades...which is a complete shame. Because the fact is, the reason and rationale for what Pope Urban II began a thousand years ago is way deeper and more spiritual than what most people ever imagine. So to enlighten us all, I brought in Dr. Andrew Jones, an expert on th...
2016-08-111h 17The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard050: Scott Hahn Unleashes the CreedWe say (or drone through) it every week – "I believe…" Do we really? Does the amazing truth of the Creed penetrate the fibers of our being the same way it did early Christians who were willing to die for it? If you aren't quite there yet, you might soon be. Especially after hearing my latest guest. To help us understand this amazing statement of faith I brought in the Catholic supernova - Dr. Scott Hahn. He has just released an exciting new book from Emmaus Road Publishing titled The Creed: Professing the Faith Through the Ages. And in this barnburner epis...
2016-07-2751 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard049: The 7 Deadly Sins & How To Crush ThemThey are the most infamous of sins. Why? Because they will knock you down, beat you up, and kick you to the curb. To put it bluntly, they can send you to hell. Thankfully, there are remedies for fighting these 7 Deadly Sins (aka the 7 Capital sins...perhaps due to their abundance in Washington D.C.) And in today's program, we're going to discuss the problems and solutions both. My guest is Dr. Kevin Vost who has written on this very topic. His book titled The Seven Deadly Sins: A Thomistic Guide to Vanquishing Vice and Sin is a perfect introduction t...
2016-07-1451 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard048: How Almsgiving Can Save Your Life…Now and LaterFasting? Powerful. Prayer? Absolutely necessary. Almsgiving? Can save you from death! In our last episode, we discovered the revolution that occurred in the Old Testament with regard to handling the consequences of sin. We saw how it evolved from something we had to wait and endure, to something akin to a debt we could "pay down" proactively. In other words, we discovered you can actually shave time off of purgatory through almsgiving. It was pretty huge. Now we're going to take it one step further. In today's program we're going to unpack the incredible meaning behind a simple little verse...
2016-06-3032 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard047: The Secret Back Door Out of Purgatory Nobody Talks AboutIf I was to ask you the quickest way out of purgatory, or even perhaps the quickest way into heaven, what would you say? "Be a saint." Good. But what should we do when we fall short? What about when we sin? The book I mention in the podcast. "Get to confession," you reply. Excellent. But then what? Is there a way to make up for what we've done? A way to remedy the damage that we've caused the Body of Christ now, so that we don't suffer later? Absolutely. It's almsgiving. Don't worry, I'm not going to tell you t...
2016-06-2338 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard046: St. John Paul II Through the Eyes of a Swiss GuardPope St. John Paul II is one of the most beloved popes of all time. He touched the lives of millions. But his impact is far from over. JPII was a world-class philosopher. He taught us truths about ourselves, and humanity in general, in a way that made sense. He understood our deepest longings and turmoil. He could explain the inner workings of our heart in relation to God. In a nutshell, he taught us how to be fully human through Jesus Christ. But while most of us learned this from his speeches, encyclicals, and books, Andreas Widmer, former Swiss Guar...
2016-06-161h 01The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard045: Fire From Above: Christian Contemplation & Mystical WisdomGod didn't just create you...He thirsts for you! His heart is bursting with love for you! Yes, you! That is the underlying message of the mystics. It's also the underlying message of one of the best spiritual theologians in the United States. Dr. Anthony Lilles, Academic Dean at St. John's Seminary in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles can illuminate and discuss the interior life unlike anyone else I've heard or met. (You might remember him from episode 3.) His new book is Fire From Above: Christian Contemplation and Mystical Wisdom...and it's awesome. He is so steeped in the rich mysti...
2016-06-0958 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard044: Why You Should Thank A Dominican Right NowEver met someone who can trace their lineage back to some famous people? My dad's family had an ancestor on the Mayflower. My in-laws brag they're related to Stonewall Jackson. I recently discovered one of my relatives actually translated the spiritual masterpiece The Imitation of Christ a few hundred years ago. Family lines are very important and interesting. While not tied through bloodlines, there's a Catholic family that can trace it's lineage for 800 years...the Dominicans. And the offspring of the great St. Dominic has had an unbelievable impact on the Catholic faith. Just think of all the towering Dominican figures i...
2016-06-0249 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard043: (More) New Testament Basics with John BergsmaThere are 27 books in the New Testament...19 of them came from just two guys. Sts. Paul and John are two of the most influential men in the history of the world. 14 of the books of the most popular book in the history of the world (the Bible...just in case you were scratching your head) are traditionally ascribed to Paul. Not to be outdone, St. John wrote the "greatest piece of world literature, period" says John Bergsma. (Plus four other New Testament books.) These guys are Bible rock stars. Even so, they need some explication. Paul is sometimes clear as mud...
2016-05-2654 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard042: New Testament Basics with John BergsmaIf you totally understand the New Testament of Sacred Scripture, then you can ignore this podcast. For the rest of us mortals, this show is a gem. Best-selling author and professor Dr. John Bergsma explains the Bible like nobody else. His Bible Basics for Catholics is a masterpiece. While it focused on the overall story of salvation history, particularly the Old Testament, his sequel, New Testament Basics for Catholics illuminates the second half of the Bible. And it's even better than the first one (which sold a gazillion copies). John breaks the New Testament down by focusing on its four majo...
2016-05-1944 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard007: The Joys (& Challenges) of Family Life w/ Brandon McGinelyEverybody comes from some kind of family. Some are good. Some are bad. Most are crazy in some way or another. Regardless, family is the building block of all society because our families image the family of God. And as we all know, families are under attack. In fact, one of the biggest problems men face in today's society is that we're constantly being fed this ludicrous idea that men are idiots. Family life, particularly the role of father, needs to be reclaimed. Join Matthew this week on The Art of Catholic podcast as he interviews activist and author Brandon M...
2015-08-1950 minThe Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard001: My Battle Against HitlerOn the first edition of The Art of Catholic, Matthew interviews John Henry Crosby, founder of the Hildebrand Project. The discussion is about the incredible life and beliefs of Nazi fighter and Catholic philosopher Dietrich von Hildebrand. It's a pretty incredible story and, given recent cultural and political events, contains a warning for our present circumstances. Pope Benedict XVI thought von Hildebrand to be one of the most important voices of the 20th century. I think you'll agree. God bless, Matthew "All who have been lost were lost because they did not pray." St. Alphonsus Liguori. Don't be lost! Grab your...
2015-07-0753 min