008: Women and the Catholic Church: Exploring Exclusion and Scriptural Perspectives

In recent years, the Catholic Church has found itself at the center of numerous discussions, both internal and external, regarding issues of inclusivity, tradition, and the role of women in ordained ministries. A critical moment in this ongoing dialogue is the Synod, a gathering of bishops convened to discuss matters of importance to the Church. Amidst the varied conversations, one voice stands out—Father Anne, an advocate for the ordination of women, who is spearheading the God Says Now campaign.

The Catholic Church, an institution steeped in tradition, is currently undergoing a transformative process known as the Synod on synodality. This initiative, championed by Pope Francis, seeks to decentralize power within the Church, fostering greater participation and dialogue among its members. 

One area of particular interest is the quest for gender equality, including the ordination of women. In this episode of the Your Radical Truth Podcast, host Margaret Mary O'Connor explored the challenges and possibilities presented by this synodal journey with Father Anne, a priest deeply committed to gender justice.

Full post at: www.YourRadicalTruth.com/017-Father-Anne

In a recent episode of the Your Radical Truth podcast, hosted by Margaret Mary O'Connor, the remarkable Reverend Maura Bernard revealed her multifaceted journey — a unique fusion of a rock DJ career and a profound calling to priesthood. 

This rich narrative traces back to her roots in Washington, DC, where she made waves as an Air Personality of the Year at WBAB, an accolade bestowed upon her by Billboard magazine.

A Dual Identity Unveiled: From Rock DJ to Reverend

Reverend Maura's enthralling career in radio was filled with her interviewing rock stars, covering Grammy Awards, and reporting on Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions. However, beneath the glamorous exterior of her rock DJ persona, a deeper calling resonated within her. A spiritual tug-of-war unfolded, eventually leading her to pursue a master's degree in theological studies at Washington Theological Union in DC.

A Spiritual Calling Strengthened by Life's Transitions

The passing of Reverend Maura's parents became a poignant turning point in her spiritual journey. During her mother's final days, a profound moment strengthened her connection to spirituality, solidifying her resolve to follow the divine calling she felt persistently.

More at:  www.YourRadicalTruth.com/016-Maura-Bernard

Joyce Rupp, a renowned writer, retreat leader, and spiritual midwife, recently shared profound insights in a conversation with Margaret Mary O’Connor, host of Your Radical Truth Podcast, about her newest book release, "Jesus, Guide in My Life."

The conversation not only digs into the motivations behind Rupp's writing but also explores key themes from her trilogy on Jesus, focusing on understanding the person of Jesus and delving into his teachings.

Reconnecting with Jesus's Humanity

Rupp emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with the humanity of Jesus, especially in addressing contemporary challenges faced by the Church. The interview highlights her commitment to understanding the compassionate nature of Jesus and its relevance in navigating present-day issues within the Church.

Exploring the Teachings of Jesus

The latest addition to Rupp's trilogy, "Jesus Guide in My Life," focuses on exploring various gestures and teachings of Jesus. It encourages readers to engage in daily reflections during Lent, approaching scripture passages with a focus on attitudinal gestures. This approach aims to foster a more intimate connection with Jesus.

Full post at http://www.YourRadicalTruth.com/015-Joyce-Rupp

A woman of deep spirituality, Reverend Laurie Harrington's journey from an unexpected career path to her current role as a priest unfolds as a testament to the unpredictable and transformative nature of life.

Early Beginnings

Graduating from the university and faced with the prospect of finding a job, Reverend Harrington stumbled upon an opportunity that would set the course for her unique journey. The federal government's nondiscriminatory policy opened doors for her, leading to a position that, unbeknownst to her at the time, would shape her future in profound ways.

A Twist of Fate

During her government service as a cryptologist, Harrington found not only a job but also a deeper connection—with her future husband. The serendipitous encounter at a party marked the beginning of a journey intertwined with personal and spiritual discoveries.

Unveiling the Spiritual Calling

Reverend Harrington's life took an unexpected turn when the longing for a deeper spiritual connection resurfaced, a calling she had felt since childhood. Exploring this call, she discovered a desire to be a priest, a path traditionally reserved for men in the Catholic Church.

Challenges and Reflections

Navigating the complexities of embracing her spiritual calling, Reverend Harrington shares insights into the challenges faced and the reflections that guided her. Her journey is a testament to the pursuit of vocation, breaking barriers, and challenging norms to align with a personal and deeply felt connection with the divine.

More at: www.YourRadicalTruth.com/014-Laurie-Harrington 

A Trailblazer in Faith

Reverend Harrington's decision to follow her calling and become a priest challenges traditional notions within the Catholic Church. Her story stands as an inspiration for those who, too, feel the pull of a vocation that defies established norms.

At the heart of insightful discussions surrounding the future of the Catholic Church, Margaret Mary O'Connor engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Bishop Philip Belzunce.

This dialogue goes beyond the surface, delving into Bishop Philip's personal journey, his commitment to reform, and the pressing need for change within the Church.

Bishop Philip's Personal Journey

Bishop Philip opens up about the unique path that led him to the priesthood, sharing experiences as a Redemptorist in the Philippines and his subsequent journey to the United States. His activism during the martial law period and dedication to social justice highlight his unwavering commitment to both spirituality and worldly concerns.

The Good Shepherd Companions

Central to Bishop Philip's vision for reform is his involvement with the Good Shepherd Companions. This group, rooted in inclusivity and embracing the Good News of Jesus Christ, passionately advocates for the ordination of women as priests and bishops. Bishop Philip sheds light on the urgent need for a more balanced representation within the clergy.

Love, Family, and Inclusivity

Beyond the ecclesiastical, Bishop Philip shares insights into the importance of love within the context of marriage and family life. Drawing from personal experiences, he emphasizes the challenges and rewards of understanding relationships, bringing a unique perspective to the conversation about inclusivity within the Church.

Learn more at www.yourradicaltruth.com/013-Bishop-Philip  

In a departure from her usual podcast topics, host Margaret Mary O’Connor delves into her decades long personal battle with Celiac Disease, shedding light on a silent struggle shared by many. Joining her on the "Your Radical Truth" podcast is Tammy Overhoff, a renowned nutrition and healthy living expert, who shares her inspiring journey with the disease.

Tammy's experience sheds light on the challenges and lifestyle adjustments that come with a Celiac Disease diagnosis, as well as her dedication to helping others navigate this condition.

A Journey Rooted in Healthy Living

Tammy's journey with Celiac Disease began in 2020 when she was diagnosed, but her passion for healthy living and wellness dates to 2011. At that time, Tammy was a full-time working mom of young school-age girls. She decided to embark on a journey to lose weight and improve her overall well-being. Her approach initially focused on establishing healthier habits, such as meal prep and portion control.

Through these changes, Tammy successfully lost 40 pounds without resorting to a strict diet. Her transformation sparked curiosity and inquiries from friends and followers who wanted to know her secret. In response, she began sharing her experiences and insights on her blog, which quickly gained popularity.

The Path to Full-Time Wellness Entrepreneur

As her blog gained traction, Tammy expanded her reach through writing books and creating various resources to help people achieve their health and wellness goals. Over time, her blog evolved into a full-time career, allowing her to leave her traditional job and dedicate herself to helping others lead healthier lives.

Tammy's journey initially focused on weight loss and general wellness, but her life took a significant turn when she received her Celiac Disease diagnosis. This diagnosis prompted her to reevaluate her approach and shift her focus towards helping individuals manage Celiac Disease through gluten-free living.

Full post at www.YourRadicalTruth.com/012-Tammy-Overhoff  

Prepare to embark on a profound journey through the intricacies of the Catholic Church as we delve into Episode 11 of Your Radical Truth podcast. In this episode, host Margaret Mary O'Connor engages in a candid conversation with the remarkable Bishop Cáit Finnegan-Grenier, offering a glimpse into the concealed truths that often lie beneath the surface.

Bishop Cáit's life story is nothing short of extraordinary. Born into an Irish family deeply rooted in music and poetry, she draws spiritual inspiration from her beloved grandmother, setting the stage for a unique spiritual journey. From there, she followed a winding path to become an ordained priest in the Celtic Christian Church and a member of the Order of the Merciful Christ.

But this path was not straightforward. It was shaped by an unlikely love story – her marriage to an ordained priest in 1980. Together, they faced numerous trials and tribulations, ultimately leading them to establish the Good Tidings Ministry, a platform dedicated to addressing the painful issue of sexual abuse within the Church.

This experience reinforced Cáit's belief in the urgent need for individuals within the Church who serve willingly, transcending clerical entitlement. Her ministry extends to providing spiritual guidance to abuse victims and priests transitioning from clerical life.

The conversation takes a thought-provoking turn as it explores the challenges faced by married priests and their spouses within the Catholic Church. Bishop Cáit and her husband recognized the need for support within their community, giving rise to the Good Tidings Ministry, which offered assistance, legal guidance, and a network for individuals navigating complex relationships involving priests.

Abuse scandals within the Church are also addressed head-on. The discussion underscores the importance of accountability and sheds light on the parallels between victims of abusive priests and those of abusive sisters. Bishop Cáit emphasizes the critical necessity of acknowledging wrongdoing, breaking free from institutional structures, and protecting all victims.

The impact of celibacy on the priesthood is another critical topic of conversation. Bishop Cáit acknowledges that celibacy can pose significant challenges, with some priests not genuinely called to it, leading to loneliness and personal struggles. She believes that celibacy, in many ways, affects the priesthood's image and attractiveness to new vocations.

Throughout the episode, you are introduced to the Celtic Christian Church, a spiritual home that welcomes individuals of diverse backgrounds, orientations, and experiences. This inclusive environment provides a refreshing alternative to traditional Catholicism, emphasizing spiritual richness and openness.

Bishop Cait's story is a testament to the courage of individuals committed to uncovering hidden truths and advocating for change within the Church. It also highlights the transformative power of Celtic spirituality, providing an inclusive and welcoming spiritual home for people from all walks of life.

Explore these profound insights into the Catholic Church and spirituality by visiting www.YourRadicalTruth.com/011-Cait-Finnegan .  #YourRadicalTruth #CatholicChurch #Inclusivity #Transformation #CelticSpirituality #AbuseScandals

Survivors of abuse often find themselves living a secret existence, hidden behind a curtain of pain and shame. The scars they bear are not just physical; they cut deep into the core of their being, leaving emotional wounds that fester in silence.

Yet, there are those who refuse to let their voices be stifled, who summon the courage to step into the spotlight and break free from the shadows of their past. Sinead O'Connor was one such individual, a true testament to the power of defiance and the resilience of the human spirit.

Sinead’s Formative Years

Growing up as an Irish Catholic woman, Sinead O'Connor faced a world that often misunderstood her. She possessed a rare gift—undeniable talent as a songwriter and artist—that set her on the precipice of stardom.

But beneath the surface, beneath the allure of her burgeoning fame, lay a fierce determination to expose the truth about child abuse within the Catholic Church.

In an audacious act of protest, Sinead O'Connor took center stage on Saturday Night Live, armed not with a microphone, but with a symbol of her dissent.

Clutching a picture of former Pope John Paul II, she tore it to pieces, a defiant gesture aimed at redirecting the world's attention towards the heinous reality of child priest sexual abuse. It was a move that shook the establishment to its core, a stark reminder that sometimes, one must shatter the status quo to bring about change.

Visit: http://www.yourradicaltruth.com/010-Sinead-Oconnor

During this episode of the Your Radical Truth podcast, host, Margaret Mary O’Connor, talks with Catherine Marie, woman priest.

They delve into the captivating story of Catherine Marie’s remarkable journey of spirituality and self-discovery.

From her Catholic upbringing to her exploration of various faith traditions, Catherine's quest ultimately led her to become an ordained priest in the Independent Catholic Church. Catherine shares the challenges she faced, the truths she discovered, and the profound significance of everyday spirituality in her life.

Catherine Marie's Spiritual Odyssey:

Catherine Marie's spiritual journey commenced within the confines of the Roman Catholic Church, where she was baptized and raised.

However, her dissatisfaction with the Church's treatment of women and the imposed limitations on them propelled her to seek alternative paths.

As a nurse, wife, and mother, she embarked on a quest to uncover her own spiritual truth, venturing into different denominations and even traveling to India, where she explored Hinduism and Buddhism.

During her exploration, Catherine encountered the concept of a feminine image of God, which challenged the prevailing male-dominated perspective within Christianity.

She resonated deeply with the notion that spirituality transcends gender and that women are equally capable of answering their divine calling. Her experiences and observations gradually led her to question the power dynamics and patriarchal structures entrenched within religious institutions.

Read full post at https://YourRadicalTruth.com/009-Catherine-Maxey 

In the latest Your Radical Truth Podcast episode, host Margaret Mary O'Connor invited Dr. Sharon Tighe-Mooney to discuss her experience with the Catholic Church.

The topic was gender inequality within the Church, and Margaret Mary felt privileged to discuss this important issue with Dr. Tighe-Mooney.

Dr. Tighe-Mooney's book, "What About Me and the Catholic Church?", left a strong impression on Margaret Mary due to its in-depth research and thought-provoking insights.

Margaret Mary believed that featuring Dr. Tighe-Mooney on the show would facilitate an enlightening exploration of gender inequality within the Church and open up a meaningful discussion.

Admiring Dr. Tighe-Mooney's capacity to challenge conventional beliefs using scripture, Margaret Mary was excited to unpack this subject further. She expected that the guest's approach would stimulate an engaging discourse and prompt the audience to reassess widespread narratives in the Church. 

Dr. Tighe-Mooney did not disappoint. An in-depth conversation ensued, exploring many facets of the Church's history.

 Read more at www.yourradicaltruth.com/008-Sharon-Tighe-Mooney