The Pillar Podcast

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD details some news unfolding in California that has his attention.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

Pope Leo XIV issued his first encyclical this week. JD and Ed give an overview of the document and debate its effectiveness and intended audience.This episode of The Pillar Podcast is brought to you by Holy Family Direct Primary Care in Wenona, Illinois.Now hiring medical professionals who want to treat the whole person in a relaxed environment, with the Catholic faith at the core of all we do.Learn more at holyfamilydpc.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comThose sneaky libertarians.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

The Vatican’s synod department sets this week some deadlines ahead of a 2028 ecclesial assembly in Rome.Then, JD and Ed talk about a shift in how the SSPX is presenting its planned illicit episcopal consecrations in July.This episode is brought to you by the Catholic Education Fund, an initiative of Aequitas Education in partnership with ACE Scholarships.Learn more at catholiceducationfund.org This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd rejects a beloved Nebraska tradition.Let cardinals eat cakeAre you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about reactions to a synod study group’s final report on ‘emerging issues’ and the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith’s warning this week to the Society of St. Pius X. This episode is brought to you by The Secret of the Goldfish, a warm, faith-filled middle-grade mystery for curious Catholic kids, coming to you from Our Sunday Visitor.To learn more, visit GloriaBook.com/SundaySchool-Photo: Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández attends the consistory for the creation of 21 new cardinals in St. Peter’s Square on Oct. 2, 2023. © Mazur/cbcew.org.uk. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comThis is democracy Ed can believe in.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed reflect on the one year anniversary of Pope Leo’s election to the papacy.Then, they talk about a Vatican-ordered Vos estis investigation in the Diocese of Baton Rouge.This episode is brought to you by the 2026 Amazing Parish Leadership Summit. This August, leaders like you from across the Church will gather for three days of inspiration, encouragement and equipping.Learn more at amazingparish.org/pillar-Photo credit: Pope Leo in St. Peter’s Square via Vatican Media. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

The Archdiocese of New York offers an $800 million settlement to victim-survivors of clerical sexual abuse.JD plays a round of occupational ‘Good, Better, Best’ in honor of the feast of St. Joseph the Worker.There is no bonus episode this week.This episode is sponsored by Five Stones, offering critical services for Catholic apostolates – including marketing, order fulfillment, technology, and customer service.Learn more at weare5stones.com/pillar This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd explains why the Benevacantism conspiracy theory is back in the news this week.-Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar Podcast

JD and Ed talk about Pope Leo XIV’s in-flight press conference this week. Then, JD talks about a new database system being tested in dioceses in Brazil.This episode is sponsored by the St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry, a Catholic graduate school that seeks to reunite theology, prayer, and sanctity by providing a true formation of mind and heart led by a personal encounter with Christ while studying theology and philosophy in and from the heart of the Church.You can learn more by visiting stbernards.edu-Pope Leo XIV speaks to reporters during a papal flight April 21. Credit: Vatican Media. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd shares a New Jersey basketball storyAre you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about Pope Leo XIV’s trip to Africa and his letter to the College of Cardinals.Ed plays a round of First Communion ‘Yes or No.’This episode is sponsored by the Institute for Liturgical Formation at Christendom College Graduate School of Theology. This summer, consider spending four weeks immersed in reverent liturgy and rigorous academics.Learn more at christendom.edu/liturgy This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd asks JD a question of etiquette. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about the January meeting between the Vatican’s then-nuncio to the United States and the Department of Defense. JD asks about Pope Leo XIV’s approach to just war. This episode is brought to you by the Catholic Education Fund, an initiative of Aequitas Education in partnership with ACE Scholarships.Learn more at catholiceducationfund.org This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd asks JD for his take on Pope Leo’s plans for a consistory of cardinals in June. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at kolivera@pillarc…

JD and Ed talk about the nature of Holy Saturday.Ed plays a round of MiLB team name trivia. This episode is brought to you by The Cristeros, a new movement of faithful Catholic men committed to prayer, formation and brotherhood.Learn more at TheCristeros.org/Pillar This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comA foolproof plan and a wounded man. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about the sobering case of Noelia Castillo Ramos. Then, the Dicastery for Legislative Texts has a new prefect. This episode is brought to you by The Freedom Group, freeing men from the craving for pornography in one year or less.To learn more, visit thefreedomgroup.co This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

We were going to squirrel away this week’s live recording in Chicago in The Pillar’s secret archives, but it was too good a time not to share.Learn more about Aid for Women Chicago here: aidforwomen.org/Production and photography by Kyle Heimann. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comDo you like sport peppers?Don’t miss the next live recording of The Pillar Podcast on March 19 in Chicago!We’ll meet at 7 pm at the Nisei Lounge (3439 N. Sheffield Ave.) and we’ll probably start making the show around 8 pm.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are…

JD and Ed give an update on Bishop Emanuel Shaleta. Then, they talk about the danger of ecclesial spectatorism. This episode is brought to you by Wallet Win’s Catholic Family Emergency Binder, designed to give Catholic families peace of mind, ensuring you and your loved ones are prepared for the unexpected—whether that’s an illness, injury, or even death.Use code PILLAR for 20% off at walletwin.com/binder, and provide your family with security and peace.-Don’t miss the next live recording of The Pillar Podcast on March 19 in Chicago!We’ll meet at 7 pm at the Nisei Lounge (3439 N. Sheffield Ave). This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEd asks JD for advice. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed talk about the unprecedented arrest this week of Chaldean Catholic Bishop Emanuel Shaleta.Then, Ed plays a round of your new favorite Pillar Podcast game ‘Better Know a Currency.’This episode is brought to you by The Cristeros, a new movement of faithful Catholic men committed to prayer, formation and brotherhood.Learn more at TheCristeros.org/Pillar This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comHow can Christians be prophets in the modern world? Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comWatches and a bug.JD and Ed will record the rest of this week’s bonus episode early next week. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at koli…

JD and Ed talk about the reassignment of a bishop in the Ivory Coast— and the lack of transparency around the reassignment.Then, they detail the case of a Chaldean Catholic bishop accused of embezzling hundreds of thousands of dollars from his cathedral’s charity fund.This episode is brought to you by St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry.St. Bernard’s is a Catholic graduate school that seeks to reunite theology, prayer, and sanctity by providing a true formation of mind and heart led by a personal encounter with Christ while studying theology and philosophy in and from the heart of the Church.You can learn more by visiting their website: stbernards.edu- Read Bishop Erik Varden’s Lenten reflections here, beginning with ‘Entering Lent’ on February 22: coramfratribus.com/life-illumined/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

The Society of St. Pius X released a batch of statements this week related to their plans to consecrate new bishops this summer, without a papal mandate.JD and Ed talk about the documents— specifically one titled ‘Annex II.’You can read Annex II here: Order and Jurisdiction: The Futility of the Schism AccusationThis episode is brought to you by the Institute for Liturgical Formation at Christendom College Graduate School of Theology.This summer, consider attending the Institute for Liturgical Formation, spending four weeks immersed in reverent liturgy and rigorous academics.Learn more at christendom.edu/liturgy This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD and Ed answer a canon law question from readers.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

The U.S. Church is approaching the end of its great metropolitan turnover. JD and Ed talk about the characteristics of the newly appointed metropolitans. Then, JD and Ed talk about internal backlash against an appointment at the University of Notre Dame. JD plays a round of Valentine’s Day ‘Yes or No.’This episode is sponsored by the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. This Lent, join the nation’s biggest Catholic Bible study, and share Christ with others.To learn more, visit StPaulCenter.com/lent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comDo you prefer summer or winter Olympics? Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

There’s a lot of news out of the Archdiocese of New York this week. JD and Ed talk about the installation of Archbishop Ronald Hicks, and an insurance company’s bizarre attempt to pressure the Archdiocese of New York into dropping a lawsuit over insurance coverage for sexual abuse claims.Then, Ed plays a round of ‘super bowl’ trivia.This episode is sponsored by the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. This Lent, join the nation’s biggest Catholic Bible study, and share Christ with others.To learn more, visit StPaulCenter.com/lent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD details his weekend of basketball. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comA birthday, and dreams of hunting lionfish.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed ask how U.S. bishops can best catechize in an age of misinformation. Then, they talk about Pope Leo XIV’s recent message about artificial intelligence. This episode is sponsored by the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. This Lent, join the nation’s biggest Catholic Bible study, and share Christ with others.To learn more, visit StPaulCenter.com/lent This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comA big winter storm is coming, and JD is worried about Ed. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

JD and Ed go ‘to the law’ to address two questions floating around the internet this week. This episode is brought to you by Catholic Money Academy. Make this the year you clean up your finances. The Wallet Win team can help you manage your money with virtue.Claim your 2-week extended free trial at CatholicMoneyAcademy.com/pillar This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD details his basketball team’s recent win.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

The Vatican is expected to soon announce a date for the beatification of Archbishop Fulton Sheen. JD and Ed talk about why Sheen’s initial 2019 beatification date was delayed, and what they expect for his beatification.Then, Ed tests JD’s knowledge of gifts given to sitting U.S. presidents.This week’s episode is brought to you by “V8’s For Vocations,” which is raffling off a 1959 Chevy Apache truck.Proceeds support the education of seminarians in the Diocese of Gallup, N.M.Learn more at v8sforvocations.org- This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD goes down a linguistic rabbit hole.Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at [email protected]

Ed is tan, rested, and ready to talk with JD about this week’s consistory in Rome. This week’s episode is brought to you by The BIG Catholic Planner and Calendar. Pillar readers get 20% off with code PILLAR at BigCatholicCalendar.com, for a limited time.-Photo credit: Cardinals meet in small groups Jan. 7 during a consistory of the College of Cardinals. Vatican Media. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

JD Flynn is joined by Pillar Rome Correspondent Edgar Beltrán to talk about the developing situation in Venezuela, the role of the local Church, and Edgar’s own experiences as a child and a young professional in the country. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comJD and Ed talk about Christmas carols and gift giving in this bonus episode of the Pillar Podcast. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our producer Kate at …

The Archdiocese of New York has a new archbishop. JD and Ed talk about the bad takes on the appointment that saturated the internet and secular media.Ed plays a round of Christmas carol ‘Yes or No.’This episode is sponsored by The Lamp.The Lamp is the only magazine for Catholics seeking intelligent, witty, and clear-eyed commentary on the world, and right now it’s 40% off for Pillar listeners with the code PILLAR40 at thelampmagazine.com. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.pillarcatholic.comEdgar Beltran joins the bonus episode to talk about his experience on the Pillar pilgrimage in Rome and more. Are you a paying subscriber?* Visit pillarcatholic.com/listen on your phone* Check the top right corner of the webpage to ensure you are logged into your Substack account.* Tap ‘set up podcast’ next to The Pillar PodcastHaving issues? Email our produc…

Ed unpacks the recent installation of a new bishop in China, and what it could signal about the state of the Vatican-China deal. Then, Pillar Rome correspondent Edgar Beltrán joins the podcast to talk about the situation of Cardinal Porras in Venezuela. This episode is sponsored by Carved Wood Cross, bringing you meaningful art made by human hands.There’s still time to order before Christmas! Get 20% off your order with promo code PILLAR.Learn more at CarvedWoodCross.Etsy.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

A visit to a Capuchin crypt in Rome sparks a conversation about relics and the resurrection of the body.A Vatican commission says the Church should not proceed with a female deaconate. JD and Ed talk about Pope Leo XIV’s decision to publicize the commission’s findings, and how the findings may impact conversations about women in the Church.Then, Ed plays a round of Rome ‘Yes or No.’This episode is sponsored by The Lamp, the only magazine for Catholics seeking intelligent, witty, and clear-eyed commentary on the world.For a limited time, Pillar listeners get 40% off with the code PILLAR40 at thelampmagazine.com This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

Don’t miss The Pillar’s Live Show Jubilee Roman Extravaganza!Thursday, December 4 at the Drunken Ship Pub in Rome’s Piazza Campo de’ Fiori. We’ll start at 8pm.Be there. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

Pope Leo XIV released this week an apostolic letter about ecumenism, in anticipation of his Turkey Day trip to Turkey. JD and Ed talk about the apostolic letter, and ask what it could take to achieve ecumenism with the Orthodox Churches.Then, Ed plays a round of Thanksgiving ‘Yes or No’ and ‘Good, Better, Best.’This episode is sponsored by the BIG Catholic Calendar and Planner.You shouldn’t have to pick between getting things done and living a full Catholic life. With The BIG Catholic Planner and Calendar, you don’t have to. Its 3-phase planning funnel helps you identify responsibilities and get tasks done, all through the lens of the life of the Church.Pillar readers get 20% off with code PILLAR at BigCatholicCalendar.com for a limited time This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe

JD and Ed talk about evangelization and tradition at the University of Notre Dame in this live taping of The Pillar Podcast.This episode features conversations with Jennifer Martin, director of the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture, and Lucy Spence, editor-in-chief of the Irish Rover.This live recording of The Pillar Podcast was sponsored by the de Nicola Center for Ethics and Culture.Learn more at ethicscenter.nd.edu-The Main Building at the University of Notre Dame. Credit: Matthew Rice/wikimedia. CC BY SA 4.0 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.pillarcatholic.com/subscribe