• What the Catechism says about the Practice of Daily Prayer
    Feb 3 2025

    In this episode, Emily and Edmund dive into the Catechism’s call to make prayer “the life of the new heart” (CCC 2697), exploring how daily rhythms and personal expressions of prayer deepen our relationship with Jesus. They reflect on the importance of modeling prayer for others, learning from witnesses, and creating space for personal encounters with God. Practical tips include building habits of prayer, incorporating lectio divina, and fostering prayer in the domestic church. They also address common struggles like distraction, dryness, lack of faith, and acedia, offering insights from the Catechism and encouragement to persevere in a life of prayer powered by trust and grace.

    (00:00) Emily and Edmund open this episode discussing the Catechism’s call to make prayer “the life of the new heart” (CCC 2697), emphasizing the importance of daily rhythms and personal expressions of prayer. They encourage catechists to witness a prayerful life, blending structure and spontaneity, as they model walking with Jesus in our daily relationship with Him.

    (07:20) Emily and Edmund reflect on the importance of modeling prayer for others and learning from witnesses of daily rhythms of prayer. They discuss creating space for personal encounters with God, turning inward to the heart where prayer begins, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide deeper connections in evangelization and catechesis.

    (14:08) The conversation shifts to building habits of prayer through techniques like habit stacking and incorporating prayer into daily routines. They explore the three expressions of prayer—vocal, meditative, and contemplative—and offer practical tips for introducing meditative prayer, like using lectio divina, to foster deeper reflection and connection with God.

    (21:09) Emily and Edmund discuss building habits of prayer in daily life, emphasizing the role of the domestic church in fostering rhythms of prayer. They explore common difficulties in prayer—distraction and dryness—offering insights from the Catechism on how these challenges can reveal attachments, prompt self-reflection, and invite deeper conversion of the heart.

    (28:11) Emily and Edmund explore the struggles and joys of prayer, reflecting on the Catechism’s insights into distraction, dryness, lack of faith, and acedia as challenges in the life of prayer. They offer practical takeaways for fostering a daily walk with Jesus, emphasizing trust, grace, and openness to the Holy Spirit.

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    38 mins
  • Using the Liturgy, Church Documents, and Scripture in Catechesis on Prayer
    Jan 6 2025

    In this episode of the Real+True podcast, hosts Emily Mentock and Edmund Mitchell explore prayer's wellsprings in the Holy Spirit and the Church. They discuss the use of Church documents, the Catechism, Scripture, and formal prayers in evangelization and catechesis. They also talk about the importance of the liturgy in evangelization and catechesis, and practical steps for making prayer a more profound and personal experience for others. The episode also covers the role of aspiration prayers, the liturgical calendar, and the significance of recognizing God's presence in everyday life.

    00:00 - Emily and Edmund discuss learning to pray personally and with the Church, highlighting the Catechism’s four wellsprings of prayer: Scripture, liturgy, the virtues, and Christian living. They share practical tips for encountering Jesus through Scripture and emphasize prayer as a relationship that deepens through the liturgy.

    08:47 - The conversation dives deeper into practical ways to help others pray with scripture and liturgy, emphasizing the call-and-response dynamic and the Liturgy of the Hours. These practices can help us even outside of Mass and train our hearts to engage deeply with prayer, Scripture, and the rhythms of the Church’s liturgical life.

    17:06 - Emily and Edmund explore aspiration prayers—short, scriptural prayers like “Come, Holy Spirit”—as a way to “pray without ceasing” and integrate prayer into daily life. They discuss teaching these prayers, connecting them to liturgy, and unlocking deeper meaning behind structured prayers to enrich catechesis and evangelization.

    27:50 - Emily and Edmund discuss encountering God today through prayer, inspired by Brother Lawrence’s Practice of Presence and the Catechism’s call to embrace the present moment (CCC 2659). They highlight prayer as a journey of the heart, guided by the theological virtues—faith, hope, and love—as the foundation of our relationship with God.

    33:52 - The episode ends with a recap of the importance of teaching others to “fish” by leading them to the Church’s wellsprings where Jesus waits. They encourage catechists to revisit these wellsprings, including Church documents, for inspiration and to deepen their own encounter with Christ.

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    37 mins
  • From Creation to Christ: The Story of Prayer in the Bible
    Dec 2 2024

    Summary: In this episode of The Real+True Podcast, co-hosts Edmund Mitchell and Emily Mentock explore part four of the Catechism, focusing on Christian prayer and its roots in the Old Testament. They discuss prayer and Scripture and how the gradual revelation of God in the Old Testament can deepen our prayer life. Key figures such as Abraham, Moses, David, and the prophets are highlighted, showcasing each one’s example that contributes to God’s revelation of prayer and our relationship with God. The episode also covers the role of the Psalms as a 'school of prayer' and delves into the dynamics of praying within the Holy Trinity. The episode concludes with practical insights and advice for using Scripture effectively in catechesis and evangelization.

    Show Notes

    00:00 Introduction and Mission
    Emily and Edmund introduce the podcast, sharing their excitement about exploring the Catechism, particularly focusing on the section on Christian prayer. They aim to equip listeners with insights for using the Catechism for evangelization and catechesis on prayer, specifically using Scripture. Edmund outlines that the current unit emphasizes prayer in both the Old and New Testaments, pointing to God’s invitation to a covenant relationship through prayer.

    01:23 Personal Stories of Prayer
    Edmund and Emily share personal stories of how prayer and Scripture have impacted their spiritual lives. Emily recounts a profound experience in the Sacrament of Reconciliation that opened her eyes to the enduring mercy of God, while Edmund shares a touching moment where he sensed God's affirming voice during a difficult time.

    06:29 Understanding God's Voice
    Emily elaborates on how people often struggle to recognize God’s voice in their lives, stressing the importance of engaging with Scripture as a way to become familiar with it. They discuss the significance of hearing and reading Scripture, both personally and communally, for understanding and maintaining a relationship with God.

    09:27 Catechism Insights on Prayer
    Edmund and Emily discuss the catechism’s breakdown of prayer through various figures in the Old Testament. Starting with Creation and Adam and Eve, moving through Abraham’s faith, Moses’ intercession, David’s prayer in the presence of God, and the prophets' calls for conversion, they emphasize the gradual revelation of God’s relationship with His people.

    19:09 The Depth and Beauty of the Psalms
    The hosts express their admiration for the Psalms, highlighting Pope Benedict’s description of them as a school of prayer. They discuss how the Psalms encompass all five expressions of prayer and serve as a foundational model for both personal and communal prayer practices.

    21:10 Jesus: The Fulfillment of Prayer
    Emily and Edmund describe Jesus as the culmination and fulfillment of all Old Testament examples of prayer, providing the perfect model of prayer and relationship with God. They emphasize the importance of praying through Jesus to the Father in the Holy Spirit, explaining how the Holy Spirit aids and perfects our prayer.

    26:48 Practical Tips for Incorporating Scripture and Prayer
    They offer practical advice on teaching and integrating Scripture and prayer, suggesting the use of the Catechism’s structure for understanding the story of salvation. They stress the importance of embodying and speaking God's word naturally in catechesis and evangelization.

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    37 mins
  • What the Catechism says about building a prayer life
    Nov 5 2024

    Episode Description:
    In this first episode of Season 4 of The Real + True Podcast, co-hosts Edmund Mitchell and Emily Mentock dive into the fourth pillar of the Catechism: Christian Prayer. They explore how prayer is the heart of the Christian life and not just something we do, but a personal relationship with God Himself. Throughout this episode, Edmund and Emily share personal stories about their evolving understanding of prayer and how it transformed their relationship with God from mere intellectual pursuit or cultural practice into a fulfilling life of prayer. They also discuss practical insights for ministry based on the catechism’s teaching about prayer, discovering how it fosters a relationship with God that touches every other aspect of the faith. Whether you’re new to prayer or have been praying for years, this episode will challenge and inspire you to view prayer in a new light and help you walk with others closer to Jesus through prayer.

    Show Notes

    00:00 – Edmund and Emily dive into the fourth pillar of the Catechism: prayer. They share how their understanding of prayer evolved from routine recitations to a transformative, personal relationship with God. The conversation emphasizes that prayer is not just something we do, but the personal relationship with God itself.

    10:59 – In this section, Edmund and Emily discuss how prayer is not just a dry routine, but a personal relationship with God. They emphasize that the Catechism teaches prayer as a gift. Prayer is unique to each person, shaped by how we naturally engage with God. They explain that true prayer comes from the heart, not just the mind, and how the Catechism emphasizes the heart as a place of encounter with God. Cultivating this heart-to-heart connection is key to deepening one’s relationship with God.

    21:36 – The conversation turns to how spiritual awareness, particularly recognizing movements of the heart, can deepen prayer. Edmund and Emily highlight St. Ignatius of Loyola’s discernment of spirits and how prayer goes beyond emotion to a personal encounter with God. Edmund shares a personal story of how a seemingly ordinary moment became an answer to prayer, showing God’s care and involvement. The hosts emphasize that prayer is relational, and God desires to connect with us personally in our everyday lives, making even simple moments spiritually significant.

    30:24 – In part of the podcast, Edmund and Emily discuss how true prayer comes from the heart, as seen in both spontaneous and recited prayers, which help deepen our connection with God. They encourage listeners to reflect on moments when prayer felt personal and to cultivate an awareness of their heart in prayer. This practice makes prayer more meaningful, transforming it into a genuine, heart-to-heart relationship with God.

    40:16 – Wrapping up the podcast, Emily and Edmund emphasize the importance of sharing personal experiences of prayer to inspire others, whether as catechists or individuals living out their faith. They highlight the various expressions of prayer and encourage exploring different types to deepen one’s relationship with God.

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    46 mins
  • Truth, Witness, and the Eighth Commandment with Ryan O’Hara
    Oct 7 2024

    In this episode, Edmund welcomes special guest Ryan O’Hara to dive into the Eighth Commandment. With over 25 years of ministry experience, Ryan shares his insights on the deeper implications of “bearing false witness” and how it extends beyond simply "not lying." They explore practical advice for catechists and parish ministers, discuss the importance of right speech, and offer tips for repairing broken trust. Whether you're in ministry or simply interested in learning more about living a life of integrity, tune in to discover how truth and trust shape our relationships with God and one another.

    Show Notes:

    (00:00) In the opening of the episode, co-host Edmund Mitchell and guest Ryan O’Hara explore the deeper meaning of the 8th Commandment, “You shall not bear false witness.” Ryan reflects on his ministry experience and emphasizes the transformative power of speech, truthfulness, and formation in living a life rooted in integrity.

    (09:02) In this portion of the podcast, Edmund and Ryan explore the 8th Commandment's connection to trust, truth, and relationships. They emphasize the power of words to build or destroy trust, referencing both Christian teachings and real-world examples. The discussion highlights the importance of integrity and how speech can unite or divide communities.

    (21:18) In this segment, Edmund and Ryan explore the distinction between conviction and condemnation in ministry, emphasizing the need to guide people toward repentance with compassion. They discuss repairing relationships through honest apologies and forgiveness, as well as the importance of ministers modeling trust and truthfulness while offering support to those hurt by the Church or others.

    (31:16) In the conclusion of the podcast, Edmund and Ryan discuss practical tips for ministers on presenting the 8th Commandment to others. They reflect on the balance between truth and love, addressing the struggle of people-pleasing and the sin of omission. Ryan also highlights the importance of honesty in relationships and points listeners to his podcast “Better Preach” for more resources on preaching and teaching.

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    38 mins
  • God’s Gifts and Our Responsibility: Living the Seventh and Tenth Commandments
    Sep 2 2024

    In this episode Edmund Mitchell welcomes special guest Nick Sawicki, the Associate Director of Development for the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston and a member of CAPP USA, the American branch of a Vatican foundation that promotes Catholic social teaching. Nick brings a wealth of experience to the conversation, including his work with America's Catholic social teaching initiatives and his legal background from Fordham University.

    Show Notes:

    (00:00) The episode begins with Nick’s background and his deep connection with Catholic social teaching, rooted in his experiences at his home parish, which was led by the inspiring figure: Venerable Nelson Baker. Nick recounts how Father Baker's life and work in the "City of Charity" in Buffalo left a profound impact on him, shaping his understanding of faith in action. Nick discusses how Father Baker's dedication to serving the poor and needy during the Great Depression exemplifies the true spirit of Catholic social teaching.

    (10:18) In this section of the podcast, Nick and Edmund discuss the multifaceted nature of poverty, emphasizing that beyond material poverty, the Church also recognizes moral and spiritual poverty. They explore the significance of Catholic social teaching, particularly how the Seventh Commandment ("Thou shall not steal") extends beyond just avoiding theft. Nick highlights the Church’s teachings on the universal destination of goods, the tension between private property rights, and the common good. The discussion also touches on the complexities of economic systems and the moral foundations necessary for true human dignity and justice.

    (15:58) In this segment, Edmund and Nick discuss the importance of understanding the Church's teachings on private property and its deeper spiritual significance. Edmund shares a personal story about his children and their attachment to belongings, which sparks a conversation about the dignity and fulfillment that come from owning property. Nick explains that while private property is important, it must be balanced with the Church’s teachings on the universal destination of goods, ensuring that possessions serve the common good. The discussion also highlights the role of Catholic social teaching in guiding how we relate to and use our material possessions.

    (25:24) In this closing segment, Edmund and Nick discuss how Pope Francis emphasizes Catholic social teaching through his actions and decisions, sparking conversations about living a life aligned with the Gospel. Nick shares practical ways to cultivate a healthier relationship with material goods, like using the Jesuit practice of the Examen to reflect on motivations behind purchases. They also discuss the dangers of consumerism, which can distract from spiritual growth. Nick encourages listeners to explore Catholic social teaching further by visiting cappusa.com, which offers valuable resources for understanding and applying these principles in daily life.

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    33 mins
  • Addressing adultery, healing, and sexual sin in a ministry context with Dr. Bob Schuchts
    Aug 5 2024

    In this episode, Edmund is joined by Dr. Bob Schuchts, founder of the John Paul II Healing Center and the author of the best-selling book Be Healed: Encountering the Powerful Love of Jesus in Your Life. They delve into topics around sexual sin and the 6th and 9th Commandments, exploring issues of adultery, chastity, and healing within a ministry context. Dr. Schuchts shares his personal and professional experience and insights around presenting God’s plan for sexuality and addressing the reality of people’s experience of sexual sin in their families and marriages.

    00:00 Edmund introduces Dr. Bob Schuchts, a therapist and founder of the John Paul II Healing Center, who has spent over 30 years working in ministry and family therapy. They discuss the 6th and 9th Commandments, focusing on the complexities of adultery and covetousness and the broader implications of sexual sin. Dr. Schuchts emphasizes the profound impact of sexual sins and violations on individuals and relationships, advocating for a deeper understanding of these issues through his work and the Catechism.

    09:08 This part of the episode focuses on the unintended consequences of “vows” made in response to personal trauma, like adultery witnessed in one's family growing up. Dr. Bob explains that vows made out of fear or judgment can have a negative impact on our lives. He highlights the importance of approaching vows and commandments not from a place of fear but through a positive perspective of living one's values in the Holy Spirit's power and freedom. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of such vows for healing and living authentically in accordance with God's design.

    17:03 In this segment, the discussion centers on overcoming the denials associated with adultery. Dr. Bob and Edmund discuss the four specific denials: denial of the act itself, denial of wrongness, denial of consequences, and the denial of hope. Dr. Bob emphasizes the role of shame and isolation in perpetuating sexual sin and highlights the importance of confronting these feelings to foster healing and communion. They discuss strategies for encouraging openness and healing in ministry settings, suggesting practical exercises for acknowledging and confronting one’s past within a supportive community.

    25:21 In the closing of the episode, the conversation focuses on understanding and practicing chastity within and outside marriage. Dr. Bob emphasizes that chastity is about seeing sexuality through God's perspective and highlights the importance of understanding divine intentions for sexuality, as illustrated in the Theology of the Body. Practical advice for growing in chastity includes recognizing personal violations of chastity and pursuing healing through the Sacrament of Confession and the Eucharist. For married couples, discussing feelings of use within the relationship and fostering mutual respect and dignity is advised. Dr. Bob and Edmund also discuss the broad implications of sexual teachings in understanding human relationships and personal growth in love.

    This episode is sponsored by UNLEASHING THE POWER OF THE EARLY CHURCH:
    Study "Acts of the Apostles" with Dr. Mary Healy online at Sacred Heart Major Seminary. Visit shms.edu/online


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    37 mins
  • What Catholics believe about the Death Penalty
    Jul 1 2024
    In this conversation, Edmund interviews Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy, the executive director of the Catholic Mobilizing Network (CMN), about the fifth commandment and the work of CMN in promoting the value of life over death. They discuss the history and implications of the death penalty, the role of faith-based advocacy, and the challenges of promoting restorative justice. They also explore the misconceptions and myths surrounding the death penalty and the need for a deeper understanding of the Gospel's call to respect life. The conversation explores the themes of justice, vengeance, and retribution in relation to the death penalty. The revised paragraph 2267 of the Catechism is discussed, highlighting the church's teaching that the death penalty is inadmissible because it attacks the inviolability and dignity of the human person. The conversation also touches on the importance of restorative justice and building a culture of life.

    00:00 Edmund introduces Krisanne Vaillancourt-Murphy, Executive Director of the Catholic Mobilizing Network (CMN). Krisanne shares her journey into faith-based advocacy, driven by a desire to address social justice issues. She discusses her inspiration from Pope Francis and the film "Dead Man Walking," emphasizing the importance of examining societal norms and moral convictions regarding the death penalty.

    09:26 In this segment, Edmund and Krisanne discuss surprising facts about the death penalty. Krisanne highlights that 70% of the world has deemed the death penalty illegal or immoral, contrasting with the US's stance. They delve into its historical and racial context, citing that half of US states still uphold it, driven by misconceptions about deterrence and retribution. Krisanne also reveals the staggering number of exonerations from death row and emphasizes the system's inherent flaws and injustices.

    20:41 Edmund and Krisanne discuss the Church’s teaching regarding the death penalty and the revisions to paragraph 2267 of the catechism in 2018. They clarify that the Church's teaching never fundamentally changed, but the practical application changed with society's capacity to protect itself from criminals without resorting to death. The revision reflects a clear stance against the death penalty, aligning with the consistent call for human dignity.

    28:10 Krisanne reflects on the profound message in paragraph 2267 of the catechism, emphasizing the importance of not depriving anyone, regardless of their crime, of the possibility of redemption. She draws parallels to St. Paul's conversion, highlighting the abundant mercy of God. Edmund resonates with the counterintuitive nature of the Gospel, which challenges conventional notions of justice. They conclude with a call to action, urging listeners to engage in restorative justice efforts and advocate against the death penalty.

    This episode is sponsored This episode is sponsored by Catholic Charities USA. Help Catholic Charities serve your neighbors in need. Join us at www.WeAreThere.US.


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    43 mins