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    Avoiding Babylon

    Avoiding Babylon was started during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. During these difficult and dark days, when most of us were isolated from family, friends, our parishes, and even the Sacraments themselves, this channel was started as a statement of standing against the tyrannical mandates that many of us were living under. Since those early days, this channel has morphed into an amazing community of friends…no…more than friends…Christian brothers and sisters…who have grown in joy and charity. 


    As we see it, our job here at Avoiding Babylon is to remind ourselves and those who enjoy the channel that being Catholic is a joyful and exciting experience. We seek true Catholic fraternity and eutrapelia with other Catholics who, like us, are doing their best to live out their vocation with the help of God’s Grace.  Above all, we try to bring humor and joy to the craziness of this fallen world, for as Hillaire Belloc has famously said:


    “Wherever the Catholic sun doth shine,

    There’s always laughter and good red wine.

    At least I’ve always found it so.

    Benedicamus Domino!”

    en-us250 Episodes

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    Episodes (250)

    Cardinal Dolan Criticized by Both Sides for St Pat's "Funeral"

    Cardinal Dolan Criticized by Both Sides for St Pat's "Funeral"

    This episode takes you from the recent controversy surrounding Cardinal Dolan to the solemn bedside of a family in Oklahoma, grasping at hope during their child's medical struggle. We navigate the harmony and discord between faith and science, confronting the Catholic stance on creation and excavating the symbolism buried in Genesis. The episode is steeped not only in theological debates but also in human stories that will clutch at your heartstrings.

    Fatherhood, rites of passage, and the shifting role of masculinity in society are placed under a microscope as we converse with our esteemed guests about building men of virtue amidst a culture grappling with identity. We analyze the present trials of the Church, including the rising tide of female leadership and the urgency for clerical accountability. The ebb and flow of tradition and modernity within Catholicism are candidly discussed, setting the stage for a rich and multifaceted dialogue that stretches from past to present and gazes into the future.

    Finally, we embrace the reflective season of Lent, sharing the intimate challenges and triumphs of fasting and spiritual transformation. We connect the dots between current events, moral dilemmas, and their portrayal in popular media, leading to an in-depth dissection that ventures beyond the surface. The episode concludes by fostering a sense of camaraderie among listeners, celebrating the diverse tapestry of voices who find solace and strength in shared faith. Join us for an episode that promises to enlighten, provoke thought, and perhaps even transform.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 24, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 10 - Christian Righteousness

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 10 - Christian Righteousness

    Embark on a profound exploration of what it truly means to live a life of Christian righteousness, following the insightful spiritual guidance of Bishop Jacques Bossuet. With Lent upon us, we delve into the essence of a faith that surpasses mere exterior ritual, seeking instead a genuine connection with the teachings of Christ. Discover how Jesus redefines righteousness, inviting us to transcend the wisdom of the pagans and the justice of the Jewish law and, ultimately, to strive for the perfection found in knowing Him. This episode promises a contemplative journey that not only enlightens but also challenges us to grow spiritually.

    As the first full week of Lent draws to a close, we share the deep significance of the Stations of the Cross, a devotion that becomes especially poignant on this Friday of abstinence. My personal reflection on this practice, second only to my love for the Holy Rosary, is one I am eager to share with you. May this meditation serve as a cornerstone for your own Lenten journey, bringing you closer to a renewal of faith and offering a wellspring of blessings to carry with you. I am truly grateful for your presence in this shared pilgrimage of faith.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 23, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 8 & 9 - The Sign of Jonah & Knock

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 8 & 9 - The Sign of Jonah & Knock

    As we navigate the tumultuous seas of Lent, I find myself reflecting on how often we, like Jonah, try to avoid the divine plan set before us. We examine the reluctance of Jonah to face the Ninevites, a tale that resonates with our own spiritual voyages, and the trials we encounter when faith calls us to challenging tasks.

    In the quiet moments of this season, we are reminded of the importance of steadfastness in our penances and reflections. I am filled with gratitude for the companionship of each soul partaking in this shared spiritual endeavor. Through our collective meditation, we seek the serenity that Jonah found, ultimately aligning our steps with the divine will. It's with a heart brimming with thanks that I look forward to the continuation of our daily meditations, guiding and walking alongside you through the remaining days of Lent.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 22, 2024

    Thy Kingdom Come: Rethinking Catholic Apologetics with Joshua Charles

    Thy Kingdom Come: Rethinking Catholic Apologetics with Joshua Charles

    Join us with our special guest, Josh, as we pepper our discussion with laughter while rethinking Catholic apologetics. Ever wonder how the early church fathers might sway a Protestant's path? We share Josh's unexpected detours from Protestantism to the welcoming arms of Catholicism, stirred by the rich teachings of those who walked the faith before us.

    Scripture is a tapestry, and in this episode, we thread the needle through the vibrant patterns of typology in the Old Testament. We weave the story of Jonah with the ministry of Jesus, demonstrating how these ancient narratives cast a prophetic shadow over the New Testament's revelation. And as we navigate through the labyrinth of biblical interpretation, we tackle the Catholic Church's bold claim to offer infallible guidance. The chessboard of theological debate is set, and we're questioning every move across the Protestant-Catholic divide, calling out for a higher caliber of discourse.

    Fasten your seatbelts as we take a sharp turn into the dynamic terrain of salvation. It's not just about punching a ticket to heaven; we reveal how salvation is more akin to a transformative journey—cue the Eastern Catholic concept of theosis and the Latin idea of divinization. We also spin the "first century peasant test," challenging the notion that simplicity lacks depth in scriptural understanding.  Tune in for a ride through theology that cuts through the noise to the heart of Christian unity.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 21, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 7 - Our Father

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 7 - Our Father

    Embark on a spiritual odyssey this Lenten season as we absorb the timeless wisdom of Bishop Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet. Through his profound reflections, we'll explore the depths of prayer, confronting the ways in which the Lord's Prayer, "Our Father," can reshape our understanding of divine adoption and God's boundless love. Prepare to be stirred by Tuesday's meditation on the Father's infinite affection and what it truly means to be His child, enveloped in a relationship of paternal tenderness and guided by the Holy Spirit.

    This week, we traverse the landscape of Bossuet's sermons, allowing his words to illuminate our path to a closer connection with the divine. As you settle in with us, expect to be moved by the powerful recognition of our filial cry to "Abba, Father" in times of need, and how this invocation is a testament to our intrinsic bond with the Creator. Let the spirit of sonship resonate within as we confront our earthly struggles and the temptations that steer us away from our spiritual journey. Join us as we pause, reflect, and renew our hearts in this most sacred time.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 20, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 6 - I Was Hungry and You Fed Me

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 6 - I Was Hungry and You Fed Me

    Embark with us on a spiritual odyssey as we probe the depths of Lent, guided by the wisdom of Bishop Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet and the moving narrative of Jesus's compassion and detachment. Discover how the act of forgoing daily comforts can deepen your faith and forge a connection with the divine. This week, we delve into the heart of perseverance, examining how Christ's journey through suffering and temptation serves as an exemplar for our own season of reflection. I share my insights on how embracing the Lenten disciplines of fasting and abstinence is not merely an act of deprivation but a transformative experience that hones our spiritual resilience.

    Feel the solidarity of our shared path as we navigate the solemnity of this season, contemplating our personal acts of penance and their profound implications. I invite you to reflect on the power of Jesus's fasting in the desert as we align our Lenten sacrifices with His, finding strength in His humanity and the fortitude to maintain our commitments. Join me in this meditation that promises to uplift and fortify your spirit as we together seek the solace and guidance that can only be found in following the footsteps of Christ's compassion and mercy. Share this journey with others seeking inspiration during this thoughtful time, and let it be a beacon of hope and encouragement in our collective pursuit of spiritual growth.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 19, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 5 - Tempted in the Desert

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 5 - Tempted in the Desert

    Make Lent of 2024 edifying with daily meditations for Lent from the famous French orator, Bishop Jacques-Benigne Bossuet.

    Embrace the tranquil rhythm of Lent as we journey alongside Bishop Jacques Bossuet, uncovering the spiritual depths of this reflective season. Our meditation begins with the solemn isolation of Jesus in the desert, where his confrontation with temptation mirrors our own battles against worldly distractions and inner vices. This episode provides a serene backdrop for deepening your faith, inviting a moment of solace and introspection amid life's relentless clamor. As we navigate the austere landscape of Lent, we're reminded of the virtues of abstinence and self-discipline, finding strength in Jesus' example to fortify our own spiritual resolve.

    With the guidance of Bishop Bossuet's profound insights, we embark on an inner quest, contemplating the essence of our Christian journey as one of retreat, battle, and detachment. The narrative of Christ among the wilds, resisting Satan and comforted by angels, serves as an evocative blueprint for our Lenten observance. This episode is not merely a recounting of sacred scripture but an invitation to experience alongside Jesus, the allure of solitude and the power of divine support in our confrontation with life's temptations.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 18, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 4 - The Truth and the Life

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 4 - The Truth and the Life

    Make Lent of 2024 edifying with daily meditations for Lent from the famous French orator, Bishop Jacques-Benigne Bossuet.

    Embark on a spiritual odyssey with me as we navigate the profound revelations of Jesus being "the truth and the life," guided by the timeless wisdom of Bishop Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet's "Meditations for Lent." Even as a bout of illness attempts to dampen our spirits, I'm here to share the essence of Lenten reflection and the sovereign nature of truth that must be pursued through both knowledge and love. Through the lens of Jesus' life and teachings, we grasp the guiding principles for a virtuous existence, steering clear of deceit and the illusions of pride. Join in this episode to uncover how living authentically in Jesus' truth can illuminate our path and how the Eucharist serves as the embodiment of the life we yearn for.

    I invite you to persevere in your Lenten disciplines and consider Bishop Uswe's call to detach from earthly desires. As we fortify our spirits through fasting, abstinence, and penance, let's embrace the deeper significance of our sacrifices. I'm grateful for your presence on this journey, confident that our collective meditation will lead to spiritual edification. Join me in anticipation of the next morning's reflection, with a heart open to the blessings and transformative power of this sacred season.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 17, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 3 - God Alone Suffices

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 3 - God Alone Suffices

    Make Lent of 2024 edifying with daily meditations for Lent from the famous French orator, Bishop Jacques-Benigne Bossuet.

    Embark on a serene exploration of the soul as we uncover the essence of detachment in our third Lenten meditation. Drawing wisdom from Bishop Jacques Bossuet's profound work, we delve into the call for a radical detachment from the temporal world, aligning ourselves with St. Philip and the Apostles' teachings. In this episode, I guide you through understanding how seeing the Father can satisfy our intrinsic yearning for completeness, offering solace and fulfillment beyond the fleeting allure of material possessions and societal accolades.

    As we journey deeper into this sacred season, we emphasize the transformative practice of detachment, a theme that not only resonates during Lent but serves as a pivotal element in nurturing one's spiritual life. With Bishop Bossuet's insights illuminating our path, we are reminded of the importance of letting go—today, over this weekend, and throughout our Lenten journey.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 16, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 2 - Our Life, a Journey to God

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 2 - Our Life, a Journey to God

    Have an edifying Lent of 2024 with daily meditations for Lent from the famous French orator, Bishop Jacques-Benigne Bossuet.

    As ash settles on our foreheads, we are reminded of our mortality and the spiritual quest that defines the Lenten season.  We consider life as a pilgrimage, tracing our steps alongside Jesus's teachings during Lent and understanding how each of us is beckoned to join Him on the path to the Father. Through stories and insights, we draw parallels to the Israelites' exodus, seeing our Christian journey as one of faith and ongoing transformation. We are pilgrims, after all, and it's time to consciously prepare our hearts for the journey towards our final destination with Christ.

    The second part of our contemplation dives into the heart of Lent—detachment from the world and its fleeting pleasures. It's a time to break free from the chains that bind us, challenging ourselves to go beyond just the required fasting and abstinence. This is not just a call to minimal observance but an encouragement to use this sacred period as a crucible for deep prayer and meaningful detachment from worldly things.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 15, 2024

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 1 - Pray to God in Secret

    Meditations for Lent 2024 - Day 1 - Pray to God in Secret

    As we stand on the threshold of another Lenten season, I invite you to embark on a journey of the soul with me. Lend me your ears each morning for a series of daily meditations, this time drawing upon the profound insights of Bishop Jacques-Bénigne Bossuet. Father Paul Check graces us with an introduction that paves the way for our first steps into the Ash Wednesday reflection, where we contemplate the transformative power of an open heart during Lent. Together, let's venture through these days of solemn reflection, preparing our spirits for the joy and renewal that Easter heralds.

    Feel the rhythm of this Lenten season with our extended series of daily meditations, thoughtfully prepared to accompany you on each day of this contemplative period. Tune in as we release new episodes every morning, like clockwork, across a variety of platforms—be it YouTube, your favorite audio podcast space, or our SpiritusTV and Locals community for subscribers. Your presence and participation in this sacred time is a gift, and I am honored to share this space with you. May these reflections serve as a guide to a more profound understanding and connection with our faith, and lead us to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 14, 2024

    Navigating the Path from Opioid Addiction to the Catholic Faith

    Navigating the Path from Opioid Addiction to the Catholic Faith

    When Levi's life was engulfed by the shadows of opioid addiction, an unexpected beacon of hope emerged through his embrace of faith. Journey with us as Levi recounts his transformation from the clutches of substance abuse to the sanctuary of Catholicism, sharing the intimate details of his conversion and his upcoming Easter conversion in a family brimming with diverse religious influences. His story navigates the intersections of Baptist beginnings, Methodist transitions, and the allure of Catholic media, offering a vivid portrait of personal redemption and spiritual discovery.

    As our conversation meanders through Levi's life, we uncover the unexpected catalysts that have shaped his faith: the poetic musings of his future wife and the robust debates on Lutheran theology that steered him towards the Catholic Church. The intricacies of familial dynamics come to light as Levi reflects on integrating into his children's Catholic lineage and the quest for a church that resonates as home. This episode doesn't shy away from tough questions or avoid the nuanced debates that challenge and enrich our understanding of religion in the modern context.

    Embarking on this episode is akin to opening a global atlas of the soul, where the personal is inextricable from the universal. We'll touch upon the traditional Catholic practices that have transformed Levi's life, the importance of narrative in comprehending figures like Putin, and the delicate dance of parenting in tumultuous political times. With Levi's insights as our guide, we connect the dots between our deepest beliefs and the broader world we navigate, creating a tapestry of conversation that's as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming. Join us for a profound voyage into the essence of transformation, belief, and the power of faith to illuminate the darkest corners.

    Levi's channel, TruthWorthy:  https://www.youtube.com/@levipingleton-cv1fg

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 10, 2024

    Laughing Our Way to Faith with Ryan Katsu Rivera: Comedy and Catholic Convictions

    Laughing Our Way to Faith with Ryan Katsu Rivera: Comedy and Catholic Convictions

    When life throws you the curveball of seeing Ryan Katsu Rivera at Mass, you might just find yourself sitting down for a heart-to-heart with the man himself! That's exactly the unexpected turn of events that sparked this episode, where Ryan and Anthony explore their NYC roots, shared love for "Opie and Anthony," and the comical side of their Catholic journeys. Moving beyond just laughs, we delve into the significance of sacramentals, the importance of tradition, and finding the truth in a faith that both challenges and enriches us.

    Catholicism isn't just about attending Mass; it's a tapestry of beliefs, practices, and experiences that shape our worldview. From family's role in Christianity to the intellectual debates that test our convictions, we traverse the spectrum of what it means to live a life of faith. We grapple with the tough questions, like whether one can sin in a lucid dream, and share the joyous moments that draw us closer to the divine, such as the mysteries of the rosary or the illumination that comes from profound personal reflections.

    Guest Ryan Katsu Rivera's presence adds a layer of insight to our lively discussion as we touch on the humor that binds the community of Catholic content creators and anticipate the engaging perspectives of upcoming guest Joshua Charles. Whether you're a cradle Catholic, a convert, or simply curious about the faith, this episode promises to engage with its blend of levity and depth, all while traversing the rich landscape of Catholicism's intellectual and spiritual traditions. Join us on this journey that is sure to provoke thought, tickle your funny bone, and potentially transform your spiritual perspective.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 08, 2024

    Defending Catholicism under Pope Francis (with Erick Ybarra)

    Defending Catholicism under Pope Francis (with Erick Ybarra)

    As we sit down with Erick Ybarra to discuss Catholicism under Pope Francis, we also chart a course through the laugh-lines of life's script into the heart of theological discourse, exploring how personal beliefs evolve over time and the bridges built between diverse Christian traditions.

    Wading through the rich waters of Christian doctrine with Erick, our dialogue sets sail from the authoritarian shores of Baptist leadership to the more enigmatic terrain of Anglicanism and finally anchors in the haven of Catholicism. We don't just skim the surface of religious practices; we plunge into the undercurrents that shape them.

    Our expedition doesn't end at the port of doctrinal discovery; we navigate the oft-tumultuous seas of modern Catholic discourse. From dissecting the evolution of apologetics and examining the roots of papal authority to weighing the controversies surrounding Pope Francis's papacy, our candid conversations shine a beacon on the internal dynamics that challenge and shape faith communities. So, join us as we chart a path through the questions and quandaries that bind us all in the quest for understanding, wrapped in a spirit of respect, humor, and intellectual curiosity.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usFebruary 02, 2024

    Africa: A Small Ideological Group

    Africa: A Small Ideological Group

    Can the Catholic Church's teachings on homosexuality reconcile with modern cultural shifts? This episode, featuring Michael Hichborn of the Lepanto Institute, grapples with Pope Francis's remarks on African bishops, the complex tapestry of church doctrine, cultural undercurrents, and the quest for ecclesiastical unity. As we unpack the church's traditional views and the burgeoning debates on same-sex blessings, our listeners are invited to a conversation that questions the intersection of identity politics, scriptural doctrine, and the spiritual health of prosperous societies.

    Today's family structure is a far cry from traditional Christian perspectives, but what can we learn from examining these established roles? We explore the significance of each family member's role, drawing parallels with the Holy Family and the Holy Trinity, and debate modern attitudes toward career prioritization over family life. Michael's insights shine a light on these foundational elements, raising poignant questions on the emptiness that might accompany life choices that deviate from the innate human desire to create a family.

    Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the realms of creationism, evolution, and the intersection of science and faith. From challenging the mainstream narratives on human origins to discussing the implications of the moon landing and extraterrestrial life, this episode is a rich exchange of ideas that traverses the delicate relationship between religious beliefs and scientific skepticism. Don't miss the insightful contributions from our esteemed guest, Michael Hichborn, and stay tuned for future deep dives into scriptural texts and the support for Michael's work at the Lepanto Institute.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usJanuary 31, 2024

    The Island - Faith in Film w/ Fr Dave Nix Ep. 3

    The Island - Faith in Film w/ Fr Dave Nix Ep. 3

    Venture with us into the depths of spirituality as seen in the Russian film, "The Island," as we dissect the powerful relationships between faith, film, and our quest for redemption. The dialogue takes a cinematic turn as we examine Russian films that explore the Orthodox practice of repentance, inviting reflections on our own Catholic heritage and the universal theme of spiritual transformation.

    Strap in as we navigate the theological rapids that separate and unite Eastern Orthodox and Protestant thought, scrutinizing beliefs like theosis and holiness. We tackle the historical schism that fragmented Eastern and Western Christianity, shedding light on the nuances distinguishing Eastern Catholic and Orthodox customs. The silver screen serves as our canvas, painting vivid parallels between the lives of saints—both on celluloid and in hagiography—and our modern pursuit of sanctity, particularly through characters embodying the humility and struggle intrinsic to true spiritual growth.

    In the concluding leg of our odyssey, we grapple with the nuanced dynamics of confession, the role of married clergy, and the enigma of the 'holy fool' across Christian traditions. As we dissect scenes from select movies, the conversation probes the prophetic, the liturgical, and the transformative power of forgiveness and love. Culminating in an anticipation of future film discussions, we invite you to immerse yourself in these stories of grace, as we together untangle the divine interplay of faith and forgiveness in the reel and real worlds.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usJanuary 26, 2024

    Sacred Echoes in a Secular World (with Brian Holdsworth)

    Sacred Echoes in a Secular World (with Brian Holdsworth)

    Ever found yourself chuckling over a beer commercial that's somehow patriotic or contemplated the spiritual depth of a film? This episode with Brian Holdsworth might just be the eclectic cultural journey you didn't know you needed. We lace up our curling shoes (does curling even have shoes?) and start off with a candid conversation with Brian about the offbeat facets of Canadian nationalism, sharing laughs over our listeners' most creative podcast reviews. But don't let the friendly banter fool you; we're also peeling back the layers of contemporary faith, the quest for hope in a material world, and the eternal allure of liturgy and beauty that bind our culture together.

    Imagine sitting in a pew, questioning how ancient traditions fit into our modern lives; that's where we find common ground. We swap tales from the trenches of music ministry, the magnetic pull towards the traditional Latin Mass, and the profound influence of upbringing on our spiritual compasses. As we navigate the rich landscape of conservatism entwined with Catholicism, we ponder the transformative power of faith and how Christianity has sculpted society, revealing personal shifts toward deeper connections with our ancient rites and the stories that shape us.

    This episode isn't just a reflection—it's an invitation to a community where the threads of Catholic networking weave a stronger fabric of support and where cinema becomes a mirror to our souls. So, if you're ready to step into a world where the sacred meets the celluloid and where cultural identity is as rich as a carefully crafted espresso, then plug in and prepare for an episode that's as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usJanuary 24, 2024

    The Close of History (with Fr James Mawdsley)

    The Close of History (with Fr James Mawdsley)

    Embark on a stimulating odyssey with Father James Mawdsley as we traverse the intersections of history, theology, and socio-political upheaval. Together, we probe the legacy of WWII and its lasting impression on the Church, explore the traditional mass in light of Old Testament typology, and unpack the thorny issues of Jewish policy criticism versus antisemitism. This candid episode is not just another discussion; it's a nuanced tapestry that weaves together the delicate stance of the Catholic Church in a world rife with global tensions.

    As our conversation with Father Mawdsley deepens, we scrutinize the historical underpinnings of Jewish political influence, the Church's intricate dance with financial and social order, and the controversial stances of the Talmud. The discourse flows into theological debates, exploring the intricate relationships between Judaism, Protestantism, and Catholicism and their impact on geopolitical and religious allegiances. This episode is a crucible of provocative debate, touching on topics like Jewish Zionism, the role of Islam, and the Holocaust's contentious discourse, all while seeking a path toward understanding and truth.

    In our finale, we confront the pressing issues of our time: Muslim immigration, nationalism, and the fraught climate of religious beliefs. We tackle the conundrums of ecclesiastical scandals, papal authority, and the Church's horizon in a post-Francis era. Father Mawdsley offers his reflections on Jewish conversion potential and the theological significance of Old Testament narratives while we grapple with the challenges of content sharing in an era hyper-aware of censorship. This intellectual feast promises not only to enlighten but also to foster a deeper comprehension of the complex tapestry of faith and history.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usJanuary 20, 2024

    Pope Francis Trolls the Trads

    Pope Francis Trolls the Trads

    Prepare to be enlightened and entertained as we navigate the intersection of the spiritual and secular with our esteemed guest, Nicholas Cavazos. From questioning the enduring tradition of celibacy in the priesthood to examining the political strategies that could shape our future, we pull back the curtain on the forces that sculpt our contemporary world. Expect to hear not only the gravity of ecclesiastical controversies, but also a dose of laughter as we swap stories, share candid moments, and foster a deeper understanding of the complex world we inhabit.

    Venture with us through a labyrinth of timely discussions, where the allure of the Latin Mass meets the modern challenges of the Catholic Church, and the influence of secular Jews is dissected against the backdrop of evolving culture. We probe into the ramifications of punitive actions within the Church, the potential schism on the horizon, and the provocative realm of surveillance tactics that target political affiliations. Our exploration doesn't stop at the border of controversy; it breaks through, inviting you to expand your perspective on governance, religion, and the strata of influence that permeate our everyday lives.

    By the end of our multifaceted journey, you'll have traversed from theological debates to the rocky landscape of political candidacy and the cultural implications of an Amazon show based on Lilith. We wrap up our episode with the warmth and camaraderie of shared experiences & inside jokes. So tune in, join the discussion, and discover how the threads of humor and depth weave together to create an unforgettable podcast experience.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usJanuary 19, 2024

    The Fall of Christian Civilization (with Calvin Robinson)

    The Fall of Christian Civilization (with Calvin Robinson)

    From a transformative Eucharistic encounter to challenging the status quo of modern Christianity, Calvin Robinson joins us for a profound exploration into the depths of faith and how it intertwines with societal currents. As we traverse Calvin's spiritual odyssey from Anglicanism to a more encompassing Christian fraternity, we uncover the resonant power of sacraments and the quest for unity within the diverse tapestry of Christian denominations. Our dialogue takes on the weight of current affairs, from the intricacies of free speech to the societal stitches woven by immigration, and how these shape our collective religious experience.

    Navigating the waters of tradition and modernity, we grapple with the Catholic Church's response to contemporary societal shifts. With insight from Calvin, we dissect the delicate balance between preserving foundational doctrines and adapting to an ever-evolving cultural landscape. The discussion turns to the counter-cultural significance of celibacy within the priesthood and the implications of a society that equates happiness with sexual liberty, prompting reflections on the timeless teachings of Saint Paul and their relevance in today's world.

    As we wind down, we contemplate the personal transformations and future aspirations that faith ignites. We share touching stories of the spiritual rejuvenation found in Marian pilgrimages and the humbling power of prayer for guidance and strength. Looking ahead, we tease the lineup of upcoming shows, promising rich and engaging discourses on topics that matter. Join us in this episode for a journey that promises to enlighten, challenge, and inspire.

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    Avoiding Babylon
    en-usJanuary 15, 2024