Catholic Answers Live

“How can we achieve perfection?” This question leads to a discussion on the steps we can take to avoid Purgatory, alongside insights on responding to Protestant challenges about Catholic doctrine. Other topics include the relationship between science and belief in God, the purpose of praying the Rosary, and the complexities of Church teachings on birth control. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – What can we do to reach a level of perfection where we won’t have to go to Purgatory? 13:45 – How do we respond to Protestants when they challenge our Catholic doctrine? 22:10 – Is there a good book that addresses the scientific basis for God? My intelligent 22 year old grandson says science prohibits him from believing in God. 30:19 – I’ll be starting OCIA soon. Why pray the Rosary when we can go directly to God? And when would I pray the Rosary? It seems like if I just pray the Rosary I’d be giving up the fruitful prayer routine I already have. I wouldn’t want to give that up. 41:45 – The verbiage of CCC 2370 regarding birth control, “rendering procreation impossible” puzzles me. I’m not sure how it would apply because both artificial contraception and NFP have similar success rates. 48:29 – What are some of the sins that a regular priest can’t absolve? And what should a priest do if someone confesses something illegal?

“How is the Mass Christ’s sacrifice?” This question leads to a discussion on how Catholics view the Mass as the re-presentation of Christ’s single sacrifice, despite the experience of imperfection after attending. Other topics include the validity of saying “My Lord and My God” during consecration, and how to address challenges to the authenticity of Scripture. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:35 – Catholics believe that the Mass is the re-presentation of the single sacrifice of Christ, which Hebrews 10:14 says makes us perfect. But Catholics attend Mass and leave not perfected. Therefore, the Mass must not be the single sacrifice of Christ. 16:02 – A couple weeks ago I heard someone on CA say that you shouldn’t say “My Lord and My God” at the consecration. But my priest told me there is actually a partial indulgence for doing this. What’s true? 23:52 – How do you navigate the constant bombardment of people who deny the authenticity of scripture? 33:52 – Was Jesus always there from the beginning with God? 43:46 – The Hail Mary and the Hail Holy Queen seem like idolatry to me. 50:20 – What do Catholics believe about predestination? Is every event meant to be?

“How do I deal with being the only Catholic?” This question resonates with many, especially those navigating family dynamics. The discussion also touches on finding a Catholic community as a young adult, managing heated debates with family members, and approaching the sensitive topic of conversion without causing conflict. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:28 – How do you deal with being the only Catholic in the family? 20:50 – I’m 21 and the only Catholic in my family. How do I find a Catholic community? 29:56 – I’m the only Catholic in my family. How do I keep cool when having a heated debate with my brother? 34:24 – I’m converting and will be the only Catholic in my family. How do I break this news to my family without burning bridges?

“Is addictive personality real?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of addiction, including insights on how to recognize an addictive personality. Other topics include strategies for helping a son struggling with nicotine and vaping, the intersection of faith and recovery in programs like Al Anon, and the role of sacraments in overcoming addiction. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:10 – Is there Such a thing as an addictive personality and how do i know i have one? 13:46 – I think my son struggles with nicotine and vaping, possibly some ADD. I think he is self-medicating. Any suggestions on how to help him? 18:50 – I was part of Al Anon and I feel like it brought me back to my Catholic faith. Ultimately I stopped going because they seemed to shun my Catholicism. Yet, it is interesting that they say they are a God-centered program. 29:16 – I have been in a 12 step program for food addiction for almost 20 years. I have recently had the epiphany that I can continue those meetings, but also go to Catholic in Recovery meetings where I can feel more relaxed about being open about my faith. 35:01 – I think the sacraments were the force that pulled me out of addiction. 41:09 – I sobered up in AA. I found that most people there who were against talking about Catholic faith were people who grew up Catholic but were hurt in some way. I found after a meeting was a great time to do apologetics. 47:59 – My dad is elderly and an alcoholic. Now he is sick. If he stopped his drinking his medication would work better. I don’t know how to approach it. Sometimes I feel like I’m giving up on him. 52:38 – I was addicted to pornography and I’m wondering if I’m doing the right thing by staying away from it.

“Can you help me understand the Catholic focus on Mary?” This question opens a discussion on the role of Mary in Catholicism, addressing why Catholics pray to her rather than solely to God. The conversation also touches on the Catholic version of salvation compared to the Protestant Romans Road and explores the nuances of the Catholic view of heaven. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 00:59 – Can you help me understand the Catholic focus on Mary? Why not just pray to God in Jesus’ name? 23:03 – The Protestants have Romans Road. Is there a Catholic version of that — a list of quick bullet points on how to get saved? 29:15 – It seems like many Protestants have a kind of flat view of heaven — you are either in or you are out. Is the Catholic view more nuanced than that? 39:58 – I’m a new Catholic. Can you give me advice on how to hear God’s voice when we pray?

“How do I get to heaven?” This question opens a discussion on the Catholic understanding of salvation, alongside intriguing inquiries about recognizing loved ones in heaven, including those we’ve never met, and the importance of guarding against presumption regarding our eternal destiny. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:20 – How do Catholics get to heaven? 20:35 – In heaven how will we know the people in our lives that we never met (like a miscarried child or an ancestor)? 40:17 – How do we guard against being presumptuous about going to heaven?

“What has Tim learned after 25 years of apologetics?” In this episode, Tim reflects on his extensive experience in Catholic apologetics, addressing questions such as the obligation of Catholics to follow Ember Days and the trustworthiness of the Catholic Church’s authority. He also tackles challenges faced by parents with children who have left the faith and discusses the complexities of interfaith dialogue regarding the nature of God. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – What has Tim Staples Learned after a quarter -century of doing Catholic Apologetics? 14:55 – Are Catholics still obliged to follow Ember Day? 18:20 – Why should we trust the Catholic Church and its authority? My friend is a non-Catholic and is concerned he will be deceived. He is trying to trust the Catholic Church but doesn’t know how. 41:34 – My adult son has left the faith and challenges me about it. He sent me a video of someone saying if Adam and Eve are the parents of humanity, how did we end up with so many races and genetic backgrounds. How would we answer this? 49:15 – Why does the Catechism teach Muslims worship the same God, when the God of the Koran is so vastly different from the God of the Bible? Is there a way to tell if another monotheistic religion worships the same God or not?

“Why did the Church end weekly fasting?” This question opens a discussion on the evolution of Church practices, alongside inquiries about the Church’s stance on jousting, the concept of limbo for infants, and the pastoral duties of priests. These topics reflect the diverse concerns and curiosities within the Catholic faith today. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – Why Did the church kill off weekly fasting? 08:00 – I have heard the Church banned jousting. Does that mean we can’t do that at Medieval Times? 13:27 – Is it acceptable for Catholics to believe in the limbo of the infants? 19:13 – How do I articulate the Catholic position that it is not faith alone that saves, without sounding like our works save us? 28:00 – Modeling Jesus in Dating Before Marriage 34:36 – I’ve been going through some ongoing stalking, hacking, and financial fraud. I thought I could go to the Church for help but they don’t seem to be able to offer me support. What are the pastoral duties of a priest? I’ve been thinking of leaving the Catholic Church because of this. 43:54 – Why is it the norm in the US to receive communion in the hand and standing? Why did it change from what seems to be a more reverent posture? 48:09 – How can the Church hold up Mary and Joseph as an ideal marriage, when they did not consummate and therefore it would not have had a sacramental marriage? 51:23 – When should you leave your parish for another parish based on your priest teaching false things? My priest is very loving and kind, but is not on board with some doctrines and some sexual teaching of the Church?

“Why don’t we see more of the charismatic gifts in the Catholic Church?” This question opens a discussion that also touches on the nature of original sin and God’s relationship with evil, as well as addressing concerns about Pope Vigilius and responses to objections regarding God’s presence. The conversation provides clarity on these diverse theological topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:18 – Why don’t I see more of the charismatic gifts in the Catholic Church? 11:09 – Discussion with Non-denom Sister. Thinks Jesus was not free from original sin and God created evil. Looking for Bible focused responses for the idea that God is completely incompatible with sin. 19:00 – Did Pope Vigilius go against earlier popes in the 3 chapter controversy. 29:25 – An orthodox objection. What’s a good response to the idea that we only see God in his energies. 34:00 – How do I speak about the Catholic Faith to my friends and family who say Catholicism is too complicated? 46:14 – If I become Catholic, do I need a new name?

“How do I explain that Jesus is God?” This question leads to a discussion on the nature of Christ and the Trinity, while also addressing related topics such as the historical disagreements between Catholics and Orthodox on the canon of scriptures and the evolving emphasis on Mary in the Church. Additional questions touch on interfaith relationships and early church governance. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:35 – When did Catholics and Orthodox begin to disagree on the canon of scriptures? 15:00 – Why don’t we hear anything about Mary? It seems like the Church has much more emphasis on her now than in early church? 24:28 – How do I explain to my family members that Jesus is God? 35:20 – My son is dating a Ukrainian Orthodox girl. Are they in line with the Roman catholic church? Can you give me 3 similarities and differences between the two? 42:46 – I’m Not Trinitarian because Jesus has a proper name, the Father has a proper name. But the Holy Spirit does not have a proper name. 47:47 – Was there more of a democracy of bishops in the early church? I don’t want to jump into a system similar to Mormonism again.

“Can salvation happen outside the Church?” This question opens a discussion on the Catholic understanding of salvation, addressing concerns from Protestants about Church teachings. Other topics include navigating a past as a Protestant while exploring Catholicism and the reasoning behind Paul’s letter to the Romans despite Peter’s presence in the city. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:23 – I have many protestants tell me that they would never become Catholic because the Church teaches salvation outside the Church. 11:38 – I became Protestant in 2021 and am now looking into Catholicism. How do I process my past life? 22:10 – If Peter was in Rome then why did Paul write the letter to the Romans? 34:57 – Do Christian who are hostile to the Catholic Church still have invincible ignorance?

“How Could Mary ascend to heaven?” This question leads to a discussion about the implications of Jesus’ words in John 3:13 regarding who has ascended to heaven. The conversation also touches on the scriptural basis for the communion of saints, the Church’s stance on marriage for the infertile, and the complexities of indulgences. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:00 – Mary’s bodily assumption doesn’t make sense because Jesus says in John 3:13, “No one has ascended up to heaven, but he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.” If no man has ascended into heaven, wouldn’t that include the Blessed Virgin Mary? 07:23 – Where do we find the communion of saints in scripture? 14:22 – Is it true that a person who is infertile cannot get married in the Catholic Church? 19:09 – I cannot wrap my mind around indulgences. 31:17 – How do I defend Jesus and the accusations that he was a fraud? 46:11 – Why do we profess in the Nicene Creed that the power of the Holy Spirit made Jesus incarnate not the power of the Son? 51:36 – Are we called to suffer or do we ask the saints to relieve our suffering?

Questions Covered: 05:13 – Sexual Sins 08:56 – Fornication 16:20 – Adultery 18:30 – Pornography 21:54 – Masturbation 29:52 – Homosexual Acts and Contraception 33:00 – Sins of the Heart

Questions Covered: 06:05 – What is a mortal sin? 07:08 – The three components of mortal sins 20:33 – Sins Against God 21:00 – Idolatry 23:42 – Blasphemy 29:32 – Missing Mass 32:51 – Occult practices 37:42 – Sins Against Others 39:19 – Murder/War 42:00 – Gossip 50:41 – Lying/Slander

Questions Covered: 02:20 – How culpable are people of other religions when it comes to not following Jesus? 09:42 – How did the Church select the popes before conclaves? When did it fall on the shoulders of the college of cardinals? 13:50 – Why do we have the books in the bible that we do? Why did they remove those books in the reformation? 21:57 – Which Church Father writings about Mary would you recommend for a Protestant? 23:47 – Why do Catholics believe that both species contain the body, blood, soul and divinity if the consecration separates them? 29:00 – If the Jews couldn’t kill Jesus, forcing them to send Jesus to be crucified, then why did they stone people? 41:07 – How is it that the Orthodox Church is considered in schism, but the Anglican Church is not? Seems like they have similar issues with unity with the Catholic Church. 48:42 – Do we know when St. Joseph died? Is there anything in the bible? 49:23 – On what level of reality does the eucharist change? 50:32 – What do you think are the weirdest things that Jesus taught?

Questions Covered: 4:00 – If the early church was Catholic, then why doesn’t it look anything like the Catholic Church of today? 11:32 – Can Catholics use the title Christotokos alongside theotokos? 17:31 – Question from Non Catholic Family-Member: How does Mary intercede for us if she’s not alive? 23:43 – If the Eucharist is truly Jesus, body and soul, why isn’t it open to everyone, and why are priests allowed to determine who receives it? How do I answer? 31:03 – What is the best argument for Catholicism to a Protestant who accepts the Nicene creed? 36:59 – If someone who received the gospel of Jesus and believed, should the Church immediately baptize him since we have a similar example in the Ethiopian eunuch? 44:11 – What are the theological differences between the Catholics and the Orthodox? 49:33 – Is there a list of infallible teachings that has been published?

“What is the Catholic Church?” This question opens a discussion about the Church’s identity and mission, while also addressing how to navigate family dynamics when dealing with issues like homosexuality. Additional topics include the challenges of engaging with an evangelical perspective on the Catholic Church and fostering relationships with family members who hold anti-Catholic views. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:45 – What is the Catholic Church? 13:48 – How do I deal with family who is fully immersed in homosexuality? 28:57 – I’m evangelical. The premise that the Church that Jesus founded was the Roman Catholic Church is false. 49:07 – My mom is a evangelical, former Catholic and anti-Cathoic. How do I bridge that gap and have a relationship with her?

“What makes music sacred?” This question opens a discussion on the essence of sacred music, touching on its spiritual significance. The conversation also addresses practical concerns like where to find chant sheets for traditional Latin Mass altar serving and whether sacred music must stem from a place of faith. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – What makes music sacred? 30:15 – I altar serve at the TLM and have a hard time chant sheets. Where do you recommend I find them? 36:35 – Would you agree that sacred music has to be a product of faith?

“How do I explain Mary’s sinlessness to my Protestant wife?” This question opens a discussion on the role of Mary in Catholic theology, addressing concerns from recent converts and their families. Other topics include offering comfort after a loved one’s passing, navigating doubts about Sola Scriptura, and understanding the Church’s teachings on end times and marital relations. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:21 – I’m a recent convert. How do I address the sinlessness of Mary to my Protestant wife? 17:41 – My non-Catholic father-in-law died suddenly. What words of comfort can I offer to my Catholic family? 24:33 – If I become convinced of certain Church teachings but still have major questions about things regarding Sola Scriptura, would it be a good thing to move towards Catholicism? 34:05 – Regarding the end time, it appears Irenaeus is premillennial and claims he gets it from St. John, but the Church teaches against it. How binding is this? 42:35 – I’m a recent convert. My wife had a procedure to save her life that required the removal of parts of her reproductive system. Is it a sin to have relations since we cannot be open to life? 47:31 – Where does Mary fit in because she’s always popping up everywhere? Why is she so prominently seen?

“Did the Early Church teach that Mary sinned?” This question opens a discussion on Marian doctrine, while also addressing the moral implications of investing in Christian-friendly funds versus secular ones. Other topics include reconciling John 6:35 with the Eucharist and the ethical concerns surrounding IVF, providing a comprehensive look at contemporary Catholic issues. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:50 – Did the Early Church teach that Mary sinned? 14:00 – Regarding the principles of cooperating with evil. Do I have a moral obligation to invest in Christian friendly funds over secular ones? 21:38 – How do I reconcile John 6:35 with the literal understanding of his body and blood? 30:37 – What makes IVF fundamentally wrong? Where does the right to be conceived through natural means come from? 50:35 – How do we respond to the Protestant claim that they also offer a sacrifice, but it’s a sacrifice of praise?

Can suffering or illness in our family be a punishment from God for our sins? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists address this difficult and deeply personal question before exploring a wide range of theological and pastoral topics. The discussion covers whether Catholics may hold the Genesis Gap Theory, how the Church can better evangelize people with disabilities, and why Catholic teaching on the death penalty has developed over time. Additional questions examine the extraordinary endurance of St. Paul, the purpose of offering prayer intentions with the Rosary, why Catholicism claims to be more than just another denomination, and why sacramental confession is necessary before receiving Holy Communion in certain situations. A thoughtful conversation on suffering, grace, Church authority, and the sacraments. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered:  01:12 – Is it possible that God punishes my continuous sin through my son’s disease?    04:19 – Can a Catholic hold to the Genesis Gap Theory? Or is it heretical?   12:41 – How can the Church evangelize to those with disabilities? What are good resources that can help me get started?    19:28 – Can we in good conscience support the death penalty? I can’t seem to understand why the church changed this. In theory can’t the church’s teaching on this revert?    28:37 – Is there a miraculous quality to St. Paul recovering from the stoning at Lystra or from all of the other beatings he suffered? It seems any number of the rods, stonings, etc. could have disabled him and made his long-distance travel impossible.    32:49 – How does setting a prayer intention before praying a rosary differ from just praying for that intention directly without praying a rosary, does it have something to do with the merit involved with praying a rosary? Thank you!    36:40 – Why can’t Catholicism be just another denomination among the denominations? I think Protestants see Catholicism as a Christian denomination, thus no need to make the move if they are already happy where they are.   43:02 – If priests have the sacramental pow

“What’s the best argument for Catholicism?” This episode addresses the top argument to convince an unbeliever, while also tackling questions about submitting to the Church amid concerns of sin, the differences between original sin and ancestral sin, and the significance of Marian prayers. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:55 – What’s the top argument to convince an unbeliever? 10:40 – Am I supposed to submit to the Church even though it might be sinning? 18:20 – How is the Catholic doctrine of original sin better than the Eastern doctrine of ancestral sin? 29:10 – In the earliest known Marian prayer its written, “…do not despise our petitions in time of trouble, but rescue us from danger. Only pure one, only blessed one.“ As a former Protestant, the “rescue us“ Part troubles me a bit to pray. 32:54 – How can I explain to a non-Catholic the difference between a blessed item and a “good luck” charm? 40:03 – What is the explanation for the Celibate priesthood? 46:42 – My friend is not Catholic because other denominations have sacraments and clergy, how do I as a Catholic respond to that argument? 52:03 – Can you clarify the teaching of paragraph 1377 in the Catechism which states that…” Consecration endures as long as the Eucharistic species exists…?

“Where do we see the Marian doctrines in Scripture?” This question opens a discussion on the biblical foundations of Marian beliefs, alongside inquiries about why Catholics refer to Mary as “holy” and “our life, our sweetness, and our hope,” and the differences in veneration of Mary among various Christian traditions. The episode also addresses the Catholic and Orthodox views on the Immaculate Conception and the significance of Mary as the Queen of Heaven. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:00 – Where do we see the Marian Doctrines in scripture? 23:43 – Why do Catholics call Mary “holy” and “our life, our sweetness, and our hope” in the Salve Regina? 28:59 – Is there a difference in veneration of Mary in EO, Assyrian Church Of The East, OO and Catholicism? 32:49 – How does the Catholic view of the Immaculate Conception differ from the Orthodox view (as it relates to Original Sin)? And what is the evidence for the Catholic view? 45:45 – How can we be sure Mary is the Queen of Heaven? 50:40 – Why are there so many apparitions of Mary but not of Jesus?

“What are Near Death Experiences?” This question opens a discussion on near-death experiences and the nature of the soul. The conversation also addresses critiques of NDE content, the concept of purification in the afterlife as described by Father Nathan Castle, and intriguing thoughts on the relationship between soul and brain in hypothetical scenarios. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 00:55 – What do you say to critics of your content on NDEs, who say that it understates the skeptical research in the academic NDE literature? 18:50 – What do you think of the way purification seems to occur in Father Nathan Castle’s afterlife accounts? It would seem that rather than experiencing a “painful” and “fiery” purification as often depicted in pious stories and prayers about purgatory over the centuries, the souls essentially just learn new things and gradually correct their misunderstandings and errors, including needing to come to grips with their past sins and their effects on others. The idea that angels, saints and deceased relatives all get involved at different points along the journey of purification of souls and to help them move to a new level really appeals to me. 36:17 – If two individuals had their brains swapped, would their soul remain in their original bodies? Or if it stayed, how would the mismatched soul/brain experience consciousness? 46:01 – My wife is utterly convinced that all lizards including and especially the dinosaurs used to be dragons and wings were the limbs mentioned in Genesis when God punished the serpent. Note that most modern-day lizards although they do have legs still scurry around on their bellies because of their wide stance.

“Can humans possess one another?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of influence and control, including the implications of brainwashing techniques. Additionally, the episode addresses what happens to souls in purgatory at the end of the world and whether it’s morally acceptable to seek the identity of a ghost that may be trying to communicate. Other intriguing topics include the concept of fallen guardian angels and their replacements. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:40 – can human beings possess one another? For example: would brainwashing techniques done by the CIA and other government agencies with the use of LSD and other mind-altering drugs count as possession? My understanding is that the subject’s personality is changed, and they become very influenceable. Is this a form of possession by humans? 20:07 – My 9-year-old son loves listening to your show. He is wondering if you could shed any light on what might happen to the souls in purgatory when the end of the world comes. Do they get forcibly zapped through the rest of their purification process? 33:21 – If you have good reason to believe a ghost in purgatory is trying to get your attention, is it morally okay to ask them to reveal their identity? Context: a few years ago I was home alone with my newborn daughter on All Souls Day and heard repeated loud rattling sounds coming from the kitchen. The baby began screaming. I calmly walked out and said, “Whoever is bothering my baby, go away.” The rattling stopped and I have never heard it since. I have had Mass said for the soul, and also for one person I suspect it might have been, but I am not sure. Is it forbidden to ask for such knowledge or should I be content to wait? 44:37 – Are there fallen guardian angels, if so do we get a replacement if our intended guardian angel fell?

Does John 6 really teach the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, or are Catholics reading too much into the passage? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists continue responding to major Protestant objections to the Catholic interpretation of Jesus’ Bread of Life discourse. The discussion examines whether Jesus’ failure to clarify misunderstandings proves literal intent, how Catholics answer the Old Testament prohibition against drinking blood, and whether John 6 is truly connected to the Eucharist despite John not including the Last Supper narrative. Additional questions address figurative language about never hungering or thirsting, what Jesus meant by promising eternal life, and where the Gospel of John fits among the four Gospels. A detailed biblical defense of the Eucharist and the Catholic understanding of John 6. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 10:01 – Catholics argue that since Jesus didn’t clarify the literal thoughts of his listeners then he must have intended his words to be taken literally. But Jesus’ lack of clarification for misunderstandings is nothing new under the sun. He did it in John 2:15-17 concerning his teaching about destroying the temple of his body.  16:37 – Jesus can’t intend us to literally drink his blood because the Bible prohibits the partaking of blood in Leviticus 17:10-12.”  21:22 – Catholics appeal to John 6 to prove Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist. But John 6 has nothing to do with the Eucharist at the Last Supper.  30:15 – Where does John Fall among the gospels since John does not contain the last supper?  35:04 – If Catholics take Jesus’ words to eat his flesh literally, then would also have to take his words literally in verse 35 when he speaks of never hungering when we come to him and never thirsting when we believe in him.  45:57 – If Jesus meant his words literally—and intended us to engage in a physical act to eat his flesh, then we’d have to take him literally when he says that we will never die.<span data

Do Catholics interpret John 6 consistently, or are Jesus’ words about eating His flesh just symbolic like calling Himself the “gate” or the “vine”? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists respond to some of the strongest Protestant objections to the Catholic understanding of the Eucharist. The discussion examines whether John 6 should be interpreted metaphorically, how the surrounding context affects Jesus’ teaching, and what Christ meant when He said “the flesh is of no avail.” The episode also explores why many disciples walked away from Jesus in John 6 and whether their reaction supports or undermines the Catholic doctrine of the Real Presence. A deep and biblical defense of the Eucharist rooted in Scripture, theology, and the words of Christ Himself. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:23 – Catholics aren’t consistent in their interpretation of John 6. They interpret Jesus’ words about eating his flesh and drinking his blood literally in John 6, but they don’t do that when it comes to his words about being the “gate” in John 10:9 or the “vine” in John 15.  15:52 – Catholics ignore the preceding context in verse 35 where 3. Jesus uses the metaphors of eating and drinking for coming to and believing in him. If Jesus used those images as metaphors there, then he must have used them as metaphors when he speaks of eating his flesh and drinking his blood.  30:05 – Catholics ignore verse 27 where Jesus moves away from a physical mentality and takes things in a spiritual direction.  Here’s what he says, “Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you.” This distinction between spiritual and physical food serves as the basis for interpreting Jesus’s words about eating his flesh figuratively rather than literally.  35:50 – Catholics argue that Jesus never clarified his audience’s literal thoughts. But that’s not true. He does it in John 6:63, where he says, “It is the Spirit that gives life; the flesh is of no avail. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.”  50:20 – Catho

Can human reason alone lead us to the conclusion that God is personal, even without divine revelation? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists tackle deep philosophical and theological questions about God, authority, and the Church. The discussion explores whether Eastern Orthodoxy has a singular teaching authority comparable to the papacy, why Catholics often receive only the host and not the chalice at Communion, and whether extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion are sometimes overused. Additional topics include whether Adam was a single historical person or a group, how to evangelize someone immersed in New Age spirituality, and whether the early Church taught any doctrines no longer held today. A thoughtful conversation on Catholic theology, Church practice, and apologetics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 12:36 – Is there a way to arrive at the conclusion of the personhood of God without resorting to revelation?   21:46 – Does Eastern Orthodoxy have a singular authority like we do?  29:07 – How come everyone takes the host for communion but not everyone gets the chalice?  32:07 – Are extraordinary ministers of holy communion only to be used in emergency situations? My priest doesn’t always give communion at mass. He lets the EMs do it. Is that an abuse?  39:35 – Was Adam one man or a group of men?  43:00 – How do you start a conversation with someone who’s kind of a “new age junkie?” Like they’re always looking for a spiritual high or buying the next big self-help book, but can’t be bothered to open the Gospels?  48:54 – Is there something that the early church believed in terms of doctrine that isn’t taught today?

Why did the Pharisees and Sadducees fiercely disagree about the resurrection, and why is the resurrection so central to Catholic belief? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists explain the theological importance of bodily resurrection before tackling questions about the Protestant and Jewish biblical canons, including why Maccabees is missing despite its connection to Hanukkah. The discussion also explores common misunderstandings about Catholic teaching on salvation, including accusations of “works-based salvation,” how justification can grow even while Christians still commit venial sins, and the connection between the Bread of Life discourse and Christ’s Passion. The episode concludes with pastoral advice for someone in OCIA facing family conflict about becoming Catholic and attending Mass. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:22 – Why was there a dispute between the Pharisees and Sadducees on resurrection, and why is it so central to Catholic teaching?  11:14 – Is the protestant bible based off of the Jewish translation of the bible? Why doesn’t the Jewish bible have  Maccabees, since those books contain the origin of Hanukkah?  20:10 – How would we respond to someone who pushes back when we say don’t believe in a works-based salvation? They say that we would claim someone loses their salvation if they miss Mass.  30:20 – How do we reconcile a justification that progresses and still commit venial sin?  37:01 – How close in time was the bread of life discourse to the Passion of Christ?  51:30 – I’m in OCIA and my husband doesn’t agree with my decision. If I were to become Catholic and I can’t make it to mass because of issues at home, will I be in mortal sin?

“How is the Eucharist not cannibalism?” This question opens a discussion on the nature of the Eucharist, addressing misconceptions while also touching on the movement of the Holy Spirit in communities, the need for an infallible interpreter of scripture, and the concept of mortal sin in Catholic teaching. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:24 – How is the Eucharist not cannibalism? 15:30 – I think the Pentecostal belief in the real movement of the Holy Spirit within the community was pretty convincing. What is the best response to this? 22:31 – How do I answer the following: The Catholic argument that we need an infallible interpreter for scripture would not work because then you would need an infallible interpreter of the infallible interpreter and so on. 37:08 – For Catholics almost anything can be a mortal sin but for Jesus there is one mortal sin. 43:00 – What was lacking in Jesus that made the Jews reject Jesus as the Messiah in the early church? 52:15 – How do we interpret the magisterium? How do we know when we are interpreting the magisterium correctly?

“How do we know Mary is a perpetual virgin?” This question leads to a discussion on the implications of Luke 1:34 and the differing views between Catholics and Protestants. Other topics include whether Jesus fulfilled all Mosaic sacrificial offerings and the nature of baptism, specifically if it refers to the baptism of the Holy Spirit rather than water. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:40 – In support of the belief that Mary was a Perpetual virgin, Catholics appeal to Luke 1:34 where Mary asks Gabriel how she’s going to conceive a child since she doesn’t “know man,” the implication being she hasn’t had sexual relations with Joseph. But some Protestants counter that Mary asked this because she wasn’t yet married to Joseph. How do we respond? 13:29 – Regarding Jesus’ sacrifice, did he fulfill all Mosaic sacrificial offerings? Or just specific offerings? 21:19 – Is baptism actually the baptism of the holy spirit, not that of water, and is the evidence speaking in tongues? 29:49 – Were Mary and Joseph actually married but just hadn’t consummated it? 41:35 – Mark 9:38-41 is the best argument for Protestantism. 51:15 – What is the connection between the coronation and the bodily assumption?

Did Vatican II introduce harmful changes to the Catholic Church, and does Catholic theology go too far in defining mysteries like the Eucharist? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists respond to major Orthodox objections to Catholicism, covering theology, Church history, and doctrine. The discussion examines Catholic teaching on remarriage and original sin, the necessity of the Immaculate Conception, and the Christological differences between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches. Additional topics include whether transubstantiation “overdefines” the Eucharist, why Orthodox and Catholic biblical canons differ, and whether Catholic theology lacks the Orthodox essence–energies distinction. A thoughtful and charitable look at some of the deepest divisions between East and West. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Objections Covered: 02:12 – Vatican II introduced harmful theological and liturgical changes.  05:51 – Catholic teaching on remarriage is too rigid.  13:36 – Catholic original sin wrongly teaches inherited guilt.  17:14 – The Immaculate Conception is unnecessary and unfounded.  28:52 – What does one say about the Christological differences between the Oriental Orthodox Churches and the Catholic. They claim they hold to the early definitions of Ephesus that we have abandoned.  36:14 – Transubstantiation overdefines the Eucharistic mystery.  39:57 – Why do Orthodox Churches differ with us on the canon of Scriptura?  47:57 – Catholicism lacks the essence–energies distinction.

Are papal supremacy and papal infallibility later inventions unknown to the early Church? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists respond to some of the most common Orthodox objections to Catholicism. Topics include whether the papacy is biblical, if the Filioque was an illegitimate change to the Nicene Creed, and whether mandatory clerical celibacy reflects apostolic Christianity. The discussion also examines claims that purgatory and indulgences are Western corruptions, whether doctrinal development preserves or distorts the faith, and if Rome’s actions caused the East–West Schism. Finally, the episode addresses whether Vatican I contradicts the structure and authority of the early Church. A deep and charitable exploration of the major theological divisions between Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Objections Covered: 02:34 – Papal supremacy is unbiblical and unknown in the early Church.  12:00 – Papal infallibility is a late doctrinal invention. Papal authority undermines conciliar Church governance.  18:45 – The Filioque is both unauthorized and theologically incorrect. Rome illegitimately altered the Nicene Creed.  24:20 – Mandatory clerical celibacy is non-apostolic.  30:33 – Purgatory is a Western innovation without early consensus.  36:37 – Doctrinal development is corruption, not preservation.  42:07 – Indulgences distort repentance and were historically abused.  45:40 – The East–West Schism was caused by Rome’s overreach.  49:42 – Vatican I contradicts the structure of the early Church.

Could Jesus have been an alien using advanced technology—and how can Christians know that’s not true? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Jimmy Akin tackles some of the strangest and most fascinating questions listeners have ever asked. He explains whether receiving Communion affects Ash Wednesday fasting rules, what kinds of abilities resurrected bodies may have, and why theories about Jesus as an extraterrestrial don’t hold up historically or theologically. The discussion also explores why Rome is called the Church founded by Christ despite Jerusalem coming first chronologically, whether dinosaur cancer challenges traditional understandings of the Fall, and what Christians should think about pets and the end times. A fun and thoughtful episode blending theology, science, apologetics, and the unusual questions Jimmy Akin is famous for addressing. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:04 – In the case of Ash Wednesday, when fasting and abstinence are required, would receiving communion break one’s fast or count as a smaller meal? In other words, can one receive communion in addition to eating one full meal and two smaller meals? Thanks, Jimmy!  12:24 – Hi Jimmy. You’ve previously mentioned Aquinas and the possibility that humans have low-level psychic ability.. Will our resurrected body have other abilities, such as telekinesis or telepathy? Will I be able to fly like Superman? Jesus ascended, and there are stories about Saints “levitating”, so will the body get any potential flying or levitating abilities, or what other abilities might we get?  23:48 – How can we be sure that Jesus wasn’t actually an alien talking about his “father in heaven” who is actually in outer space and his spaceship is actually his kingdom? And the eternal life that we get from following Jesus to his kingdom is from advanced alien technology that keeps you alive forever? And the immaculate conception was by an alien that performed IVF on Mary, and the “angels” in the Bible are actually all just aliens too? This question has really been the only thing challenging my faith, even though it seems preposterous.  40:59 – How is the Church of Rome considered “the first church” or “the church that Christ founded”, when (chronologically) the first church was in Jerusalem?

What is the mysterious “Devil’s Bible,” also known as the Codex Gigas, and should Catholics be concerned about it? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Jimmy Akin explores the strange history and legends surrounding one of the world’s most famous medieval manuscripts. He also examines the mysterious naked young man in Mark’s Gospel, whether Genesis surprisingly parallels aspects of evolution, and why meteorology is considered scientific while astrology is rejected by the Church. The episode concludes with fascinating questions about purgatory, including whether souls in purgatory can pray for others and whether the Church has ever recognized authentic communication from them. A wide-ranging discussion blending Scripture, history, theology, and the strange corners of Catholic thought. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:54 – Hey Jimmy. I really enjoy your show. Not many Catholic podcasts I’ve found address the weirder aspects of our world. My question is in regards to the Codex Gigas, or the devil’s bible. I’ve heard a lot of secular sources talk about it but not really any Catholic ones. What is your opinion on its mysterious origin story?  11:09 – What’s the deal with the naked young man in Mark 14:51-52?  19:26 – Here’s a question for you Jimmy: in Genesis 1:20-23, it discusses how God created life.  It started with water animals, then birds, then land animals.  Does that not in fact mirror how we acknowledge the evolution of life on earth exactly, from life beginning in water, then dinosaurs (birds) and then mammals?  29:48 – I sometimes wonder why it is permissible to use meteorology but not astrology. Why can I observe the movements of air parcels and high and low pressure fronts to decide I shouldn’t plan a picnic for this weekend because it will likely rain, but I cannot turn my eyes a little higher and observe the movements of the heavenly bodies to know that I shouldn’t plan my clarinet recital for August when Mercury will be in retrograde?  44:42 – If the souls in purgatory cannot pray for themselves.  Can they pray for the other souls in purgatory or for us. Has there ever been a communication or action from a soul in purgatory that is recognized by the church as authentic?<spa

What does the Catholic Church do when someone claims the Virgin Mary is appearing to them? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists explain how the Church investigates reported apparitions and discerns whether they are authentic. The conversation also explores why Jewish Bibles do not include Maccabees despite the importance of Hanukkah, why Catholics believe Jesus has two natures, and how to better understand St. John Henry Newman’s famous quote about history and Catholicism. Additional questions cover biblical support for confession and Communion obligations, who Jesus was referring to when He said “Father, forgive them,” how Catholics recognize ex cathedra teachings, and when the Eucharist becomes the Body and Blood of Christ. The episode concludes with advice for non-Catholics discerning whether the Catholic Church is true. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:58 – If a person claims that Mary is appearing to them, how is that dealt with in the Church?  12:50 – Since Hanukkah is big in the Jewish tradition, why don’t they have Maccabees in their bible?  20:50 – Why do Catholics believe that Jesus has two natures vs. one nature?  22:56 – How do I better understand Newman’s quote, “to be rooted in history is to be Catholic?” I’ve been looking into history, and I’m not convinced.  28:54 – What bible verse could I use to back up the claim that we should go to confession and communion at least once a  33:59 – When Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do,” who was guilty?  37:44 – How do I know when something is declared ex cathedra? How can I brush up more on papal infallibility?  42:30 – When exactly does the Eucharist become Jesus?  48:35 – I’m not Catholic. How do I know if Catholicism is the right way to go?

How can Catholics begin studying apologetics and get better at debating Protestants? In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Catholic Answers apologists offer practical advice for learning Scripture, Church history, and core Catholic doctrines in a charitable and effective way. The discussion also addresses whether a pope at Vatican I really said “I am tradition,” whether watching Mass online fulfills a Catholic’s obligation after COVID-era habits, and why some Protestants strongly oppose devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The episode concludes with a look at whether any of the apostles were married or had families before following Jesus. A helpful conversation on apologetics, Church teaching, and Christian history. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 15:16 – How do I begin studying to get good at debating protestants?  23:43 – Did the pope at Vatican 1 actually say “I am tradition”?  29:19 – Since COVID-19, my wife has been watching the Mass every Saturday. Is that okay?  40:26 – Why are some Protestants opposed to the Blessed Mother?  47:07 – Were any of the 12 apostles married or have children that they had to leave in order to follow Jesus?

“Is leaving the Church a mortal sin?” This question opens a discussion on the implications of faith and scandal, particularly regarding a friend’s conversion to Protestantism. Other topics include the distinction between Jesus being Catholic or Christian, the reasons for embracing Catholicism, and concerns about praying to Mary. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 05:36 – My friend left the Catholic church and became protestant because of scandal. Is he in Jeopardy of mortal sin? 16:35 – Was Jesus Catholic or Christian. What’s the difference? 24:45 – Explain in one minute why someone should be Catholic. 29:17 – I have PTSD, Anxiety, depression, how can I go to OCIA? 37:13 – I don’t think it’s right to pray Mary 47:21 – What in Vatican 2 is infallible? Does a certain word need to be included for a statement to be infallible?

“What do modern people not get about Jesus?” This question opens a discussion on contemporary misunderstandings of Christ’s nature and mission. The conversation also touches on whether Jesus always knew he was divine, the Church’s stance on penances, and the significance of Mary’s betrothal despite her virginity. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:59 – What do modern people not get about Jesus? 16:54 – Did Jesus always know he was divine, or did he only know this after his baptism? 31:39 – Has the Catholic Church Changed its views on the severity of penances? 42:20 – Why was Mary betrothed if she was dedicated as a virgin? 49:23 – I talk to Jesus, God the father, and the Holy Spirit separately. How should I address them as three persons or do I even need to? What do you call on them for?

“Why do Catholics believe in baptism?” This question opens a discussion on the significance of baptism in Catholic faith, addressing how Catholics understand being born again through this sacrament. Other topics include navigating relationships with family in the SSPX, the role of evangelism for new converts, and the interpretation of 1 Peter 3:21 regarding baptismal regeneration. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:45 – Why do Catholics believe we are born again at baptism, and how do we answer Protestants who deny it? 06:50 – I’m a convert and I have family who are SSPX and they say that its wrong for me to go to my church. How do I navigate this and why do they believe this? 13:51 – What do Catholics believe about evangelism? I’m about to be confirmed and am wondering what God will expect of me. 20:53 – 1 Peter 3:21 says baptism now saves you. But it seems like the later part of that verse would contradict the Catholic view of baptismal regeneration. 29:25 – I’m married and considering becoming a permanent deacon. I am too young for the program now, but what can I do to form myself now before I am eligible for the program at age 35? 33:47 – Why is artificial insemination a sin? 41:15 – John 3:5 says nobody can enter the kingdom of heaven unless they are born of water and the spirit. How does this square with Genesis 2:4-7, which seems to describe a baptism of Adam. Adam was already in the kingdom, so why would he need baptism? 46:20 – Why does the Catholic Church practice infant baptism? Shouldn’t it be later like with confirmation?

“Why do Catholics believe in Mary’s virginity?” This question opens a discussion on the biblical basis for Mary’s perpetual virginity, particularly referencing Luke 1:34. The conversation also touches on the complexities of believing in Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions, as well as the challenges of understanding papal comments amidst political perceptions. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:25 – Why do Catholics believe Luke 1:34 supports Mary’s perpetual virginity? 13:02 – Why believe in Eucharistic miracles and Marian apparitions when some of them can be proven to be false? 20:50 – Why do people constantly refer to our pope as liberal or conservative instead of just a faithful Catholic? Why do popes make comments that cause controversy or cause confusion? 32:08 – I was wondering if I need an annulment since I’m getting divorced? Why would I need it? 35:28 – Why do we pray to the saints and how can I help my wife see this using the bible? 45:15 – Why should we find comfort in the Church being right if it appears to be conforming to political correctness?

“What does it mean to say that marriage is sacred?” This question opens a discussion on the profound nature of marriage within the Catholic faith. Additional topics include how to support adult children during a parent’s annulment and navigating challenges in a marriage with an irreligious spouse. The conversation also touches on fostering virtue and healing after divorce. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:35 – What does it mean to say that marriage is sacred? 14:40 – I’m new to the Catholic faith. I have adult children, have received an annulment, and am getting married. How can I help my non-Catholic adult children deal with the fact that the Church is saying their mom and dad were not really married. 20:25 – I’m struggling with my husband who is mostly irreligious (nominally Lutheran) and very controlling. He doesn’t seem to be very interested in being part of the family. People tell me I shouldn’t stay in the marriage. 33:49 – As a friend of someone who recently went through a divorce, how can I bring my friend into a closer relationship with God, and help in healing from the divorce. He practices the faith but does not have a very close relationship with God. 41:29 – How can a wife approach her husband about growing in virtue. She is nervous about asking him to do something that would require him to sacrifice. 48:42 – I’ve been separated from my husband for 20 years. He is finally going to counseling, but won’t do marriage counseling because he says he needs to work on his own trauma first. Any advice? 53:10 – How does one learn to prepare for marriage? I’ve been married almost 40 years and wondering how to teach this to my kids.

“What is the most beautiful aspect of Catholic faith?” This question opens a discussion on the profound elements of faith that often go uncommunicated in apologetics. The conversation also touches on how to rekindle a personal relationship with God after conversion, finding beauty in the Mass despite familiarity, and responding to evangelical critiques. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:20 – What is the most beautiful aspect of the Catholic faith that you didn’t think you were communicating while doing apologetics? 18:50 – I’m in a similar situation. I converted due to a relationship but now I’m all head knowledge. How do I get back to the relationship part? 42:38 – How do you find beauty in the mass when you’ve gone all your life and have almost become desensitized to it? 49:00 – How would you respond to evangelical counters to what you’re saying?

“How can couples decide when they disagree?” This question addresses the complexities of decision-making in marriage, especially when spouses hold opposing views that could lead to sin. Additionally, the discussion touches on whether a Catholic can pray in a Bahai temple, how to counter Jehovah’s Witnesses’ views on the Church, and the connections between ancient Hebrew weddings and the Mass. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:45 – In a marriage, if the consciences of the husband and wife are formed to have an opposite opinion on something, such that if option A is chosen then the wife is sinning, and if option B is chosen the husband is sinning — how can they make a decision? 17:20 – I was invited by a friend to say a prayer in a Bahai temple. Is it okay for a Catholic to do that? 21:47 – I asked some Jehovah’s Witnesses how they justified their restorationist view of the Church. What scripture might they cite for their explanation, and how might I counter that? 29:18 – I have been studying ancient Hebrew weddings. And there are so many connections between that and the Mass. I’m wondering why we don’t see more catechesis based on this — is there some kind of danger in it? 42:25 – What language do you think Adam and Eve spoke?

“If Jesus was Jewish, why are we Christian?” This question opens a discussion on the roots of Christianity and its relationship to Judaism. The episode also addresses the necessity of seeking truth in a diverse worldview, the implications of practicing yoga or transcendental meditation for Catholics, and the annulment process for converts. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:20 – If Jesus was Jewish, why are we Christian? 12:50 – What is a succinct way to argue for the necessity of finding the truest thing? I see some non-Catholic friends happy that I’ve found a cohesive worldview, but they don’t see any reason why they should investigate such a thing. 20:30 – Is it objective grave matter for Catholics to practice yoga or transcendental meditation? 33:30 – Why do converts seeking annulments from marriages before their conversion have to go through that process? It seems like a barrier to evangelization — “Hey, you should be Catholic. But you might never be able to receive communion if you aren’t granted an annulment from a marriage you had before you were even Catholic.” 44:55 – Do you think the story about the woman with seven husbands that the Sadducees questioned Jesus about is the story of Tobit? 50:12 – I am theologically not committed. I see that Christianity seems evidence based, but I don’t feel drawn to it. Any thoughts?

“What would it take for Catholics and Orthodox to reunite?” This question opens a discussion on the complexities of Christian unity, while also addressing varied topics such as the validity of a non-Catholic marriage without civil ceremony, the necessity of confession after salvation, and the differences in gospel accounts of the women at the tomb. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:35 – What would it take for the Catholics and Orthodox to reunite? 14:48 – Is my mom’s marriage valid? She and he are non-Catholic but baptized. She didn’t get civilly married, but it was a public ceremony with witnesses. Both were married before, but those previous spouses have died. 18:30 – I was told that once you are saved there is no need for confession. How does a Catholic respond to that? 29:29 – I heard a Protestant say we have the same spirit that raised Lazarus from the dead. Is that true? 35:00 – Why do the four gospels list different women at the tomb? 40:16 – My wife and I are converts. We were non-Catholics when we married. It was a non-Church ceremony at an embassy. There were not vows. But it was a legal marriage. Are we married in the Church? Do we need to have it convalidated? 47:27 – Does the Church infallibly teach that Mary had no actual sin? 51:05 – Could you comment on how the prodigal son narrative relates to the act of confession? Is this parable an example of confession?

“Did Mary and Joseph doubt Jesus?” This question leads to a discussion about their understanding of His identity, especially during the incident at the temple. Other topics include the appropriateness of repeating prayers for healing, navigating faith in the context of divorce, and clarifying the status of the Ethiopian Bible. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:10 – Did Mary and Joseph not trust or know who Jesus was by the time they lost him at the temple? 14:15 – Is it wrong to repeat prayers? For example, to ask many times for a sick friend to be healed? 28:40 – I’m a godparent to a child in a family where the husband and wife are divorcing. 36:50 – What is the status of the Ethiopian Bible? Is it considered inspired? 44:30 – I was born and raised Catholic and am starting to get back into it. My wife was raised non-Catholic and just converted. In OCIA we got a lot of answers that contradicted Church teaching. Different people are giving different answers that contradict. How do I know what is right?

“How do we reconcile the existence of evil with a good God?” This question opens a discussion that also touches on the Catholic understanding of the afterlife, the concept of purgatory, and how Catholics should approach salvation with non-Catholics. Each topic invites a deeper exploration of faith and doctrine within the Catholic tradition. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:00 – How do we reconcile the existence of evil with a good God? 10:25 – What is the Catholic understanding of the afterlife? 15:50 – Can you explain the concept of purgatory? 22:10 – How should Catholics approach the topic of salvation with non-Catholics? 30:45 – What role does faith play in the life of a Catholic? 39:12 – How can we better understand the Trinity? 45:30 – What is the significance of the Eucharist in Catholic worship? 54:00 – How do we respond to the claim that the Catholic Church is not the original church?

“Who was the first Catholic?” This question opens a discussion that also touches on the nature of souls in animals, St. Paul’s views on the second coming, and the meaning behind Jesus’ words about His yoke. The conversation further explores the differences between the King James Version and other biblical texts, as well as Catholic beliefs regarding the Eucharist. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:55 – Who was the first Catholic? 07:16 – How do you explain to people that animals don’t have souls? 16:32 – I think St. Paul argued that many generations will pass before the second coming. What are your thoughts on that? 24:42 – What does it mean when Jesus says my yoke and burden are light? 31:45 – What do we know about the KJV? How does it compare to the Ethiopian bible and the original bible? 41:33 – Do we as Catholics believe that we’re eating the resurrected body of Christ or are we eating the crucified body of Christ? 47:40 – How hard is it to leave Mormonism? 53:15 – Do Mormons have a concept of a god as a first principle?

“Do Catholics and Mormons worship the same God?” This question opens a discussion on the fundamental differences in how each faith views God. Additional topics include the reasons behind God’s silence for two millennia, the challenges faced by former satanists in addressing Mormon beliefs, and the complexities of LDS doctrines and their changes over time. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:15 – What’s the difference in how Catholics and Mormons view God? 12:51 – My father is not baptized but is open to dialogue. His best friend is Mormon so he is always listening to these perspectives. He asked, Why hasn’t God spoken to his people directly for two-thousand years? 18:17 – I’m a former satanist and a new Catholic. How do I help persuade people from not going down the path of Mormonism? 30:17 – According to the LDS who arranges who gets what planet? How do they justify changing doctrines? 37:06 – I’ve heard that Joseph Smith had performed miracles. Is there any evidence of this? 48:21 – I was born and raised Catholic. I was Mormon for 45 years and am now attending a Catholic church. How can you know that the early church had it right?