The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns
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500 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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Who Do You Say That I Am
23 augustus 2026 · 10 min
WHO DO YOU SAY THAT I AM? Lees meer
This Sunday’s Gospel asks one of the most important questions Jesus ever asked His disciples:
“But who do you say that I am?” — Matthew 16:15
Peter responds with a declaration of faith: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
But Jesus’ question wasn’t only meant for Peter. It is a question each of us must answer.
We may know what the Church teaches about Jesus. We may recite the Creed every Sunday. We may have been Catholic our entire lives. But eventually faith becomes personal:
Who is Jesus to me?
Is He simply someone I believe in—or is He truly the Lord of my life?
In this homily for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time, we reflect on Peter’s profession of faith, Christ’s promise to build His Church upon the rock, and what it means to follow Jesus not simply with our words, but with the way we live.
🎙️ The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns
Faith. Truth. Encouragement for the Journey.
#Catholic #CatholicFaith #CatholicHomily #SundayHomily #21stSundayInOrdinaryTime #Matthew16 #JesusChrist #CatholicChurch #CatholicJourney #DeaconPatKearns
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The Long Way Home
23 augustus 2026 · 7 min
🎵 The Long Way Home 🎵 Lees meer
This song is very personal to Liz and me.
For nearly 20 years, Redding was home. It was where we raised our children, built lifelong friendships, and where I served as a deacon at Our Lady of Mercy Parish.
Then God called us onto a different road.
When our youngest left for college, Liz and I left Redding and spent a missionary year in San Lucas Tolimán, Guatemala. From there, life took us to Idaho, Texas, and eventually Sacramento. Each place brought new people, new experiences, new ministries, and blessings we never could have anticipated.
And now, after all these years and all those miles, we're going home.
In just a couple of weeks, we'll return to Redding—to old friends, familiar places, Our Lady of Mercy, and a community that has always held a special place in our hearts.
I wrote "The Long Way Home" to tell that story.
It's about Liz and me, but it's also about something I've come to believe more deeply through the years: sometimes God has to take us a long way before we understand where He's been leading us all along.
Every road mattered. Every season had a purpose. Every place changed us.
And somehow, through it all...
God led us back home. ❤️
I hope you'll take a few minutes to listen.
— Deacon Pat Kearns
The Catholic Journey -
Why do Catholics Strike Their Breast at Mass
22 augustus 2026 · 17 min
Why Do Catholics Strike Their Breast at Mass? Lees meer
“Through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault…”
We say these words during the Confiteor at Mass while striking our breast—but have you ever wondered why?
This small Catholic gesture has deep biblical roots. In Luke 18:13, the tax collector beats his breast and prays, “O God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” Jesus tells us that this humble man went home justified before God.
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we uncover what this gesture really means. It isn't about shame or believing we're unworthy of God's love. It's about having the humility to stop pointing at everyone else and look honestly at our own hearts.
When our hand touches our chest, we're saying:
“Lord, start with me.”
Show me where I have failed to love. Forgive what is sinful. Heal what is wounded. Strengthen what is weak. And make my heart more like Yours.
🎧 Join me for another episode of The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions and discover why even the smallest gestures at Mass can carry profound spiritual meaning.
Humility. Repentance. Mercy. A heart turned toward God.
#TheCatholicJourney #DeaconPatKearns #CatholicFaith #CatholicMass #CatholicTraditions #JesusChrist
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Start with Me
22 augustus 2026 · 7 min
Start With Me Lees meer
It’s easy to look at the world and see everything that needs to change. But real change begins much closer to home.
Start With Me is a song about asking God to begin His work in us—in our hearts, our choices, our forgiveness, and the way we love others.
Before I ask God to change the world, I need the courage to pray:
“Lord, start with me.”
🎵 Start With Me
Deacon Pat Kearns | The Catholic Journey#StartWithMe #TheCatholicJourney #DeaconPatKearns #CatholicFaith #ChristianMusic #Faith #Jesus #Prayer
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Kearns Boys and Jeffery Court
22 augustus 2026 · 7 min
🎵 NEW SONG: “The Kearns Boys” 🎵 Lees meer
Six brothers. One family. A lifetime of stories.
Kevin, Tim, Terry, Pat, Mike, and Dan grew up together on Jeffery Court, raised by Tom and Betty Kearns with a foundation of faith, family, love, hard work, and country.
“The Kearns Boys” is a country song inspired by our book and the memories that shaped us—from driveway basketball and drinking from the garden hose to prune orchards, Navy adventures, sports, laughter, heartache, faith, and growing older together.
We’ve traveled different roads and lived very different lives, but one thing has never changed:
A brother is a brother till the end of days.
This song is for our parents, Tom and Betty, and for the five guys each of us has been blessed to call brother.
❤️ Six different lives. One family voice.
Forever brothers. Forever family. Forever... The Kearns Boys. 🇺🇸🙏🎵
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Why do Catholics Pray the Rosary
21 augustus 2026 · 12 min
Why Do Catholics Pray the Rosary? Lees meer
For centuries, Catholics have held Rosary beads in their hands during moments of joy, fear, grief, uncertainty, and hope. But have you ever stopped to ask what the Rosary really means?
The Rosary isn't about worshiping Mary, and the beads themselves aren't magical. At its heart, the Rosary is a journey through the life of Jesus Christ—from the Annunciation and Bethlehem to Calvary, the Resurrection, and beyond.
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore why Catholics ask Mary to pray for us, why we repeat the Hail Mary, what the mysteries mean, and how this simple prayer can quiet our hearts and draw us closer to Christ.
Sometimes when life becomes overwhelming, we don't need complicated words. We simply need something to hold onto—one bead, one prayer, one moment with Jesus at a time.
🎧 Join me for the next episode in The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions.
The goal of the Rosary isn't simply to say more prayers. It's to know Jesus more deeply.
#TheCatholicJourney #CatholicFaith #HolyRosary #DeaconPatKearns
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Why do Catholics have Statues and Sacred Images
20 augustus 2026 · 13 min
Why Do Catholics Have Statues and Sacred Images? Lees meer
“Doesn’t the Bible forbid statues?”
It’s a question Catholics hear often—and the answer reveals something beautiful about our faith.
In this episode of The Catholic Journey, we continue our series The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions by exploring why Catholic churches contain crucifixes, statues of Mary and Joseph, images of the saints, stained glass, and sacred art.
Catholics do not worship statues. Worship belongs to God alone. Sacred images are meant to do something entirely different: they point beyond themselves toward God.
Just as a photograph of someone we love helps us remember that person, sacred images remind us of Jesus, Mary, the saints, and the great story of salvation.
We'll also discover something that sometimes surprises people: while Scripture clearly condemns idolatry, God Himself instructed His people to create sacred images—including the golden cherubim placed upon the Ark of the Covenant.
And perhaps most importantly, the saints depicted in our churches remind us that holiness isn't impossible. They were ordinary human beings who allowed God's grace to do extraordinary things in their lives.
Sacred images aren't gods. They're signposts—and every good signpost points beyond itself.
Join me for this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns as we uncover another beautiful meaning hidden within our Catholic traditions.
#TheCatholicJourney #CatholicFaith #CatholicTraditions #CatholicChurch #DeaconPatKearns
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Why do Catholics use Incense
20 augustus 2026 · 15 min
Why Do Catholics Use Incense? Lees meer
The smoke rises. The fragrance fills the church. But have you ever wondered why Catholics use incense at Mass?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey, we continue our series The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions and discover that incense isn't simply an ancient Catholic custom—it's deeply rooted in Scripture.
The Psalms compare our prayers to incense rising before God, and the Book of Revelation gives us an extraordinary glimpse of heaven where incense rises with the prayers of the saints.
We'll explore why incense is used to honor the altar, the Gospel, the priest, the people of God, and even the body of a loved one at a Catholic funeral.
Most importantly, incense gives us a visible reminder of something we cannot see:
Our prayers are rising before God.
The next time you see incense drifting toward the ceiling of a church, think of the prayer you're carrying and quietly say:
"Lord, let my prayer rise before You like incense."
Join me for this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns as we uncover another beautiful meaning hidden within our Catholic traditions.
#TheCatholicJourney #CatholicFaith #CatholicTraditions #CatholicMass #DeaconPatKearns
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Why do Catholics Genuflect
18 augustus 2026 · 12 min
Why Do Catholics Genuflect? Lees meer
We do it almost automatically. We enter the church, find our pew, bend one knee toward the floor, and sit down.
But have you ever stopped to ask why Catholics genuflect?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey, we continue our series The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions by exploring the beautiful meaning behind this simple gesture.
Genuflecting isn't just Catholic etiquette. It's a profession of faith made with our bodies.
When we bend our knee toward the tabernacle, we're acknowledging something extraordinary: Jesus Christ is truly present in the Blessed Sacrament—Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.
Our genuflection quietly says:
"Jesus, You are my Lord. You are my King. I belong to You."
The next time you enter a Catholic church, pause for just a moment. Look toward the tabernacle. Remember Who is waiting there. Then bend your knee and pray the words of Saint Thomas:
"My Lord and my God."
Join me for this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns as we rediscover why this small Catholic tradition expresses one of the greatest truths of our faith:
God is here.
#TheCatholicJourney #CatholicFaith #CatholicTraditions #HolyEucharist #DeaconPatKearns
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Why do Catholics Light Candles
17 augustus 2026 · 12 min
Why Do Catholics Light Candles? Lees meer
Have you ever walked into a Catholic church, lit a candle, whispered a prayer, and then walked away while the flame continued to burn?
That simple act carries a beautiful meaning.
In this episode of The Catholic Journey, we continue our series, The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions, by exploring why Catholics light candles.
A candle reminds us that Jesus is the Light of the World. It can represent a prayer entrusted to God, remembrance of someone we love, hope in the midst of darkness, and our trust that God continues working even when we can do nothing more.
We'll also explore the powerful symbolism of the Paschal candle—lit at Easter, present at our Baptism, and standing beside us again at our funeral.
From the beginning of our Christian life to its earthly end, the message remains the same:
Christ is our light, and the darkness will never overcome Him.
Join me for this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns.
🕯️ Sometimes behind the smallest flame is a very big prayer.
#TheCatholicJourney #CatholicFaith #CatholicTraditions #Prayer #DeaconPatKearns
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Why do Catholics Make the Sign of the Cross
16 augustus 2026 · 10 min
Why Do Catholics Make the Sign of the Cross? Lees meer
We do it before Mass. We do it before prayer and meals. We may even do it when we're frightened, grieving, or simply don't know what else to pray.
But have you ever stopped to think about what the Sign of the Cross actually means?
In Episode 2 of The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions, we slow down one of the most familiar gestures of our Catholic faith and discover just how much is contained within it.
When we say, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” we proclaim the Trinity. And as we trace the Cross over our bodies, we proclaim the saving death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
It's more than a way to begin a prayer.
It is a prayer.
It's also a reminder of our Baptism and a simple declaration:
I belong to Jesus Christ.
🎧 Join me for this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns and rediscover the meaning behind something you may have done thousands of times.
And next time you make the Sign of the Cross… slow down and mean it.
#TheCatholicJourney #CatholicFaith #SignOfTheCross #CatholicTraditions
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The Faith that Refuses to Let Go
15 augustus 2026 · 12 min
The Faith That Refuses to Let Go | Matthew 15:21–28 Lees meer
Have you ever prayed for something so long that you began to wonder if God was even listening?
In this homily, we encounter the Canaanite woman—a desperate mother who comes to Jesus pleading for her daughter. At first, Jesus seems silent. Yet she does not walk away. She kneels. She trusts. She persists.
Her story reminds us of a powerful truth: God’s silence does not mean God’s absence.
Jesus ultimately tells her, “O woman, great is your faith!” What He praises is not her background, status, or accomplishments, but a faith that refused to quit—even when heaven seemed silent.
This Gospel also challenges us to see others differently. The disciples saw an interruption; Jesus saw a soul. We are called to notice the lonely, forgotten, struggling, and overlooked—and to see them through the eyes of Christ.
If there is a prayer you have almost stopped praying, pick it up again. Bring it before the Lord. Keep trusting. Keep believing. Refuse to let go.
Because sometimes God may seem silent…but He is never absent.
🎙️ The Faith That Refuses to Let Go
Deacon Pat Kearns
Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish#CatholicFaith #CatholicHomily #NeverStopPraying #TrustInGod
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Catholic Traditions - Holy Water
15 augustus 2026 · 15 min
WHY HOLY WATER?
The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions — Episode 1 Lees meerWhy do Catholics dip their fingers into holy water when they enter a church? Is it simply an old tradition—or is something much deeper happening?
In this first episode of The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions, Deacon Pat Kearns explores the beautiful meaning behind holy water.
Holy water calls us back to our Baptism, when we first became members of the Body of Christ. It reminds us that we belong to God, invites us to renew our baptismal promises, and points to the cleansing and life-giving power of God's grace.
And when we bless ourselves with holy water, we aren't performing an empty ritual. We are making the Sign of the Cross and remembering who we are: baptized sons and daughters of God, called to live differently because we belong to Christ.
Sometimes the Catholic practices we perform almost automatically contain profound spiritual truths—if we slow down long enough to understand them.
🎙️ Join me for Episode 1: Why Holy Water? as we uncover the faith hidden within one of Catholicism's most familiar traditions.
The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns
Helping Catholics see life through the eyes of faith.#TheCatholicJourney #HolyWater #CatholicFaith #CatholicTraditions
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Walking with Jesus - Penetcost
14 augustus 2026 · 19 min
Walking with Jesus — Episode 12: Pentecost
When the Followers Became the Church Lees meerWe began in Bethlehem with a child lying quietly in a manger.
Now, after walking with Jesus through His life, ministry, Cross, Resurrection, and the road to Emmaus, our journey reaches its final destination:
Pentecost.
The disciples are gathered in the Upper Room. They have seen the risen Christ, but they are still waiting.
Then everything changes.
A sound like a mighty wind fills the room. Fire rests upon them. The Holy Spirit comes—and the frightened disciples who once hid behind locked doors walk into the streets and boldly proclaim Jesus Christ.
Followers become witnesses.
Disciples become apostles.
And the Church is sent into the world.But Pentecost isn't only their story.
It's ours.
Through Baptism and Confirmation, we have received the Holy Spirit too. We weren't given our faith simply to keep it safely inside a church building. We were given it so that we could carry Christ into our families, workplaces, communities, and world.
Throughout Walking with Jesus, we have asked:
“What would it have been like to walk with Jesus?”
But in this final episode, the question changes:
“Now that I have walked with Jesus… how will I walk differently?”
We began this series with Jesus saying:
“Come, follow me.”
We end with Him saying:
“Go.”
Go love.
Go serve.
Go forgive.
Go proclaim the Gospel.
Go bring Jesus to someone who needs Him.Join me, Deacon Pat Kearns, for the final episode of Walking with Jesus — Pentecost: When the Followers Became the Church.
Thank you to everyone who has walked this journey with me from Bethlehem to Pentecost.
But The Catholic Journey continues!
Next, we're beginning an entirely new series:
The Hidden Meanings Behind Catholic Traditions
We'll explore the Catholic practices many of us have followed our entire lives and discover the Scripture, history, theology, and spiritual meaning behind them.
And we begin with something most Catholics do…
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The Road to Emmaus
12 augustus 2026 · 17 min
Walking with Jesus — Episode 11: The Road to Emmaus Lees meer
Have you ever wondered, “Where is God? Why can’t I see Him in what I’m going through?”
Two disciples once felt exactly the same way.
On Easter Sunday, they were walking away from Jerusalem heartbroken, confused, and disappointed. Jesus had been crucified, and everything they had hoped for seemed lost.
Then a stranger began walking beside them.
They told Him about their disappointment. They told Him about Jesus. They even told Him, “We were hoping…”
There was just one thing they didn’t realize:
The stranger was Jesus.
The very person they thought they had lost was walking beside them the entire time.
In Episode 11 of Walking with Jesus, we travel the Road to Emmaus and discover a message that speaks directly to our own moments of grief, disappointment, doubt, and unanswered prayer.
Sometimes God doesn't immediately change the road we're walking.
Sometimes He walks it with us.
And like the disciples at Emmaus, we may only recognize later that He was there all along.
We’ll also explore the beautiful Catholic connection between Emmaus and the Mass—Jesus opens the Scriptures and then reveals Himself in the breaking of the bread.
Perhaps the prayer we need today is the same prayer those disciples prayed nearly 2,000 years ago:
“Stay with us, Lord.”
Join me, Deacon Pat Kearns, for Episode 11 — The Road to Emmaus: When Jesus Walks Beside Us and We Don’t Recognize Him.
And then join me for the final episode of Walking with Jesus: Pentecost — When the Followers Became the Church.
We began this journey following Jesus.
At Pentecost, we will discover that now He sends us.
#WalkingWithJesus #RoadToEmmaus #CatholicPodcast #TheCatholicJourney
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Walking with Jesus - The Resurrection and when everything changed
11 augustus 2026 · 20 min
Walking with Jesus — Episode 10: The Resurrection
When Everything Changed Lees meerThe stone has been moved.
The tomb is empty.
And everything has changed.In Episode 10 of Walking with Jesus, we enter the morning that changed human history.
Mary Magdalene approaches the tomb expecting to find death—but instead encounters the risen Christ. Peter and John run to see for themselves. Frightened disciples hiding behind locked doors suddenly hear Jesus say:
“Peace be with you.”
But the Resurrection isn't simply something that happened 2,000 years ago.
It asks something of us today:
Do I actually live like Jesus is alive?
Because if Christ is risen, then death does not get the final word.
Neither does failure.
Neither does sin.
Neither does grief.
Neither does fear.
Neither does your past.Maybe you're still living through your own Holy Saturday—waiting, praying, wondering where God is.
Remember Mary Magdalene.
When she began walking toward the tomb, Jesus was already alive. She just didn't know it yet.
God may already be doing something you cannot see.
Join me, Deacon Pat Kearns, for Episode 10 of Walking with Jesus as we stand before the empty tomb and rediscover why the Resurrection changes not only eternity—but the way we live today.
The tomb is empty. The story is not over.
And next, our journey continues with Episode 11: The Road to Emmaus — When Jesus Walks Beside Us and We Don't Recognize Him.
#WalkingWithJesus #Resurrection #CatholicPodcast #TheCatholicJourney
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Walking with Jesus - Holy Week
10 augustus 2026 · 16 min
Walking with Jesus — Episode 9: Holy Week
When Love Walked Toward the Cross Lees meerThe crowds shout, “Hosanna!” But Jesus knows where this road will lead.
In Episode 9 of Walking with Jesus, we enter the most sacred and heartbreaking days of Christ’s earthly life. We walk beside Him into Jerusalem, sit with Him at the Last Supper, enter the darkness of Gethsemane, witness Peter’s denial, follow Jesus along the road to Calvary, and finally stand in silence before the sealed tomb.
But Holy Week is more than remembering what happened to Jesus. It asks each of us a deeply personal question:
Will I still follow Jesus when I don’t understand what He is doing?
We all experience our own Holy Saturdays—those times when we have prayed, waited, and wondered why God seems silent. Yet the tomb reminds us:
God’s silence does not mean God’s absence.
The Cross looked like defeat.
The tomb looked final.
The stone looked immovable.But the story wasn’t over.
Join me for this powerful episode of The Catholic Journey as we continue Walking with Jesus through Holy Week.
And stay with us...
Because next comes Episode 10: The Resurrection — When Everything Changed.
Sunday is coming.
#WalkingWithJesus #HolyWeek #CatholicPodcast #TheCatholicJourney
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Keep your Eyes on Jesus (19th Sunday Ordinary Time - Year A)
9 augustus 2026 · 14 min
KEEP YOUR EYES ON JESUS
A Catholic Homily on Matthew 14:22–33 Lees meerSometimes life is calm… and then suddenly, the wind changes.
A diagnosis. A struggling marriage. A child who is hurting. Financial worries. The loss of someone we love. Or perhaps simply the exhaustion of carrying more than anyone realizes.
In this Gospel, Peter does the impossible—he steps out of the boat and walks toward Jesus on the water. But then something changes.
The storm doesn't change.
Peter's focus does.
He takes his eyes off Jesus, looks at the wind and waves, becomes afraid, and begins to sink.
And aren't we sometimes just like Peter?
We can become so focused on everything that might go wrong that we lose sight of the One who is already standing in the middle of our storm.
When Peter begins to sink, he offers one of the simplest and most powerful prayers in Scripture:
“Lord, save me!”
And immediately, Jesus reaches out His hand and catches him.
Maybe you're facing a storm today. Maybe you're tired, frightened, uncertain, or even beginning to sink.
You don't need the perfect prayer.
Just reach for Him.
Because sometimes the storm doesn't disappear immediately—but we discover something even more important:
While we were desperately reaching for God, God was already reaching for us.
🎙️ A Catholic Homily with Deacon Pat Kearns
Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish
Sacramento, California#KeepYourEyesOnJesus #CatholicHomily #CatholicFaith #DeaconPatKearns
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Walking with Jesus - Raising Lazarus
9 augustus 2026 · 16 min
Walking with Jesus — Episode 8: Raising Lazarus Lees meer
“Lazarus, come out!”
In Episode 8 of Walking with Jesus, we travel to Bethany and stand beside Jesus at the tomb of His friend Lazarus.
Mary and Martha are grieving. Lazarus has been dead for four days. Jesus seems to have arrived too late.
But Jesus is never powerless before a tomb.
In this deeply moving episode, we experience Martha’s heartbreaking words—“Lord, if you had been here…”—the tenderness of the moment when Jesus wept, and finally the astonishing command that changes everything: “Lazarus, come out!”
But this story is about more than a miracle 2,000 years ago.
What in your life have you given up on? What have you placed behind a stone and declared finished, hopeless, or beyond repair?
Bethany reminds us:
Never declare dead what Christ may still call back to life.
And there is an even deeper significance to this miracle. As Jesus gives Lazarus back his life, Jesus moves one step closer to surrendering His own.
The road now turns toward Jerusalem.
Next on Walking with Jesus: Episode 9 — Holy Week.
🎙️ The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns
#WalkingWithJesus #RaisingLazarus #CatholicPodcast #TheCatholicJourney
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The Sermon on the Mount - Living The Heart of the Kingdom
9 augustus 2026 · 8 min
Walking with Jesus: The Sermon on the Mount Lees meer
What if the greatest sermon ever preached wasn't meant to be admired—but lived?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we continue our Walking with Jesus series as we climb the hillside overlooking the Sea of Galilee and take our place among the first disciples listening to Jesus proclaim the Sermon on the Mount.
Together, we'll experience the beauty and power of the Beatitudes, discover what it truly means to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world, and hear Jesus call us to a deeper righteousness—one that transforms not only our actions but our hearts.
The Sermon on the Mount is more than a collection of inspiring teachings. It is the blueprint for Christian living and the foundation of a life built firmly on Christ. In a world that often values power, success, and self-interest, Jesus offers a radically different path—one marked by humility, mercy, forgiveness, purity of heart, and unwavering trust in God.
Join us as we walk beside Jesus and discover that true happiness is not found in what we possess, but in becoming the men and women God created us to be.
"Blessed are the poorin spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." — Matthew 5:3
If you've ever wondered how to live your faith more authentically in today's world, this episode will inspire you to build your life on the solid rock of Christ and embrace the values of His Kingdom.
Next Episode: The Raising of Lazarus—walk with Jesus to Bethany and witness one of His greatest miracles as He proclaims, "I am the resurrection and the life."
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The Sea of Galilee - Faith in the Midst of the Storm
7 augustus 2026 · 9 min
Walking with Jesus: The Sea of Galilee Lees meer
Have you ever felt like the storms of life were stronger than your faith?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we continue our Walking with Jesus series as we journey to the beautiful shores of the Sea of Galilee—the place where ordinary fishermen became apostles, where Jesus calmed raging storms, walked on water, and invited His followers to trust Him completely.As we imagine ourselves standing beside the lake, listening to the waves and watching Jesus call Peter, Andrew, James, and John, we discover that the Sea of Galilee was far more than a setting for miracles. It became a classroom where Jesus taught some of life's greatest lessons about faith, courage, and surrender.
What do we do when the storms of life threaten to overwhelm us? How do we keep our eyes fixed on Christ instead of our fears? And what does it really mean to hear Jesus say, "Follow Me"?
Whether you're facing uncertainty, struggling with anxiety, or simply longing to deepen your trust in God, this episode will remind you that no storm is greater than the One who commands the wind and the waves.
Join us as we walk beside Jesus and discover that even when life feels uncertain, Christ is still in the boat—and His words still speak peace into every troubled heart."Peace! Be still." — Mark 4:39
The same Lord who calmed the Sea of Galilee continues to calm hearts today. Walk with us and discover the peace that comes from trusting Him more deeply.
Next Episode: The Sermon on the Mount—where Jesus delivers the greatest sermon ever preached and reveals the Beatitudes, the blueprint for living as citizens of the Kingdom of God.
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Walking with Jesus - Capernaum - The City Where Miracles Became Daily Life
6 augustus 2026 · 9 min
Walking with Jesus – Episode 5: Capernaum – The City Where Miracles Became Daily Life Lees meer
What would it have been like to walk the streets of the town Jesus called home during His public ministry?
In Episode 5 of Walking with Jesus, we travel to Capernaum, the bustling fishing village on the shores of the Sea of Galilee that became the center of Jesus' ministry. Here, ordinary streets became holy ground as Christ preached with authority, healed the sick, forgave sins, and called ordinary men and women to extraordinary lives.
Together, we'll visit Peter's home, witness the healing of his mother-in-law, stand among the crowds gathered outside the door seeking hope and healing, watch four faithful friends lower a paralyzed man through the roof to meet Jesus, and experience the life-changing call of Matthew, the tax collector, who left everything behind to follow Christ.
Capernaum reminds us that Jesus doesn't wait for us to reach extraordinary places before He enters our lives. He meets us where we are—in our homes, our workplaces, our families, and our daily routines—and invites us to experience His healing, mercy, and transforming grace.
Join Deacon Pat Kearns as we continue our journey through the places where Jesus walked and discover that the same Lord who transformed lives in Capernaum is still walking beside us today.
Next Episode: The Sea of Galilee – Faith in the Midst of the Storm
If this episode strengthens your faith, please share it with a friend, subscribe to The Catholic Journey, and continue walking with us as we follow Christ through the places where the Gospel came alive.
"Jesus didn't simply perform miracles in Capernaum—He transformed lives. And He is still doing the same today."#WalkingWithJesus #Capernaum #CatholicJourney #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #MiraclesOfJesus #FollowChrist #SeaOfGalilee #CatholicFaith
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Walking with Jesus - Cana - When Ordinary Became Extraordinary
5 augustus 2026 · 9 min
Walking with Jesus – Episode 4: Cana – When Ordinary Became Extraordinary Lees meer
What if Jesus' very first miracle wasn't just about changing water into wine—but about transforming every ordinary part of our lives?
In Episode 4 of Walking with Jesus, we journey to the small village of Cana, where Jesus attends a simple wedding celebration with His mother, Mary, and His first disciples. What begins as a family celebration becomes the setting for one of the most beautiful moments in the Gospel—the first public sign that reveals Christ's divine glory.
Together, we'll stand among the wedding guests, witness Mary's quiet yet powerful faith, hear her timeless words, "Do whatever He tells you," and watch as Jesus transforms ordinary water into the finest wine. Through this miracle, we discover that Christ delights in entering the everyday moments of our lives, bringing hope where there is emptiness, joy where there is disappointment, and grace where we have reached the end of ourselves.
This episode is a reminder that Jesus is still transforming lives today. When we invite Him into our homes, our marriages, our families, and our daily struggles, He continues to make all things new.
Join Deacon Pat Kearns as we continue our journey through the places where Jesus walked and discover how His presence can transform our own lives with extraordinary grace.
Next Episode: Capernaum – The City Where Miracles Became Daily Life
If this episode inspires you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to The Catholic Journey, and continue walking with us as we follow Christ through the places that forever changed the world."When we place our ordinary lives into the hands of Jesus, He has a way of making them extraordinary."
#WalkingWithJesus #Cana #WaterIntoWine #CatholicJourney #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #CatholicFaith #DoWhateverHeTellsYou #MiraclesOfJesus
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Walking with Jesus - The Jordan River - Where Heaven Opened
5 augustus 2026 · 9 min
Walking with Jesus – Episode 3: The Jordan River – Where Heaven Opened Lees meer
What happened on the banks of the Jordan River forever changed the course of human history.
In Episode 3 of Walking with Jesus, we leave behind the hidden years of Nazareth and stand beside the Jordan River as Jesus begins His public ministry. Together, we'll witness His baptism by John the Baptist, hear the Father's voice proclaim, "This is my beloved Son," and see the Holy Spirit descend like a dove.
But this episode is about more than a moment in history. It's an invitation to rediscover the incredible gift of our own Baptism. Through Christ, we too have been called beloved sons and daughters of God, commissioned to live lives of faith, hope, and love.
Join Deacon Pat Kearns as we experience one of the most powerful moments in the Gospel and reflect on what it means to embrace our identity in Christ and walk faithfully in the mission He has given each of us.
Whether you are seeking to deepen your faith or simply longing to remember who you truly are in God's eyes, this episode will encourage and inspire you to renew your baptismal calling.
Next Episode: Cana – Water into WineIf this episode strengthens your faith, please share it with a friend, subscribe to The Catholic Journey, and continue walking with us through the places where Jesus revealed His love, His power, and His plan for our salvation.
"Your greatest identity is not what you do—it is whose you are. In Baptism, you became a beloved child of God."
#WalkingWithJesus #JordanRiver #Baptism #CatholicJourney #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #BelovedChildOfGod #FollowJesus
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Walking with Jesus - Nazareth - The Hidden Years
4 augustus 2026 · 9 min
Walking with Jesus – Episode 2: Nazareth – The Hidden Years Lees meer
For nearly thirty years, Jesus lived in a small, ordinary village called Nazareth. Before the miracles, before the crowds, and before the Cross, He spent His days working as a carpenter, honoring His parents, praying, and living a quiet life of faithful obedience.
In Episode 2 of Walking with Jesus, we journey through the dusty streets of Nazareth and discover a profound truth: God is often found in the ordinary moments of life.
Together, we'll step into Joseph's workshop, walk beside Jesus through the village, reflect on the hidden years that shaped His earthly life, and learn why holiness isn't reserved for extraordinary people—it is found in ordinary people faithfully loving God each day.
If you've ever wondered whether your daily routines, work, family life, or quiet acts of service truly matter to God, this episode is for you.
Join Deacon Pat Kearns as we continue our journey through the life of Christ and discover that the path to holiness often begins in the most ordinary places.
Next Episode: The Jordan River – Where Heaven Opened
If this episode encourages you, please share it with someone who could use the reminder that God is present in the everyday moments of life. Subscribe to The Catholic Journey and continue walking with us as we follow Jesus through the places that changed the world.
"Holiness is not found by escaping ordinary life—it is found by inviting Jesus into it."
#WalkingWithJesus #Nazareth #CatholicJourney #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #HiddenYears #FollowJesus #CatholicFaith -
Walking with Jesus - Bethlehem - Where God Became One of Us
2 augustus 2026 · 9 min
Walking with Jesus – Episode 1: Bethlehem – Where God Became One of Us Lees meer
What if you could travel back in time and walk beside Jesus from the very beginning of His earthly life?
In this first episode of the brand-new series, Walking with Jesus, we journey to the quiet village of Bethlehem, where the greatest event in human history unfolded—not in a palace, but in the humility of a stable.
Together, we'll step into the streets of ancient Bethlehem, hear the sounds of the shepherds, stand before the manger, and reflect on the incredible mystery of the Incarnation. Along the way, we'll discover that God often chooses the ordinary to accomplish the extraordinary and that He still comes to meet us in the simple moments of our own lives.
This isn't just a history lesson—it's an invitation to experience the Gospel with fresh eyes and to deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ.
Join Deacon Pat Kearns as we begin a journey that will take us through the places where Jesus lived, loved, taught, suffered, died, and rose again.
Next Episode: Nazareth – The Hidden Years of Jesus
If this episode inspires you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to The Catholic Journey, and help others discover the beauty of walking with Christ.
"The greatest journey you'll ever take is the one that leads you closer to Jesus."
#WalkingWithJesus #CatholicJourney #Bethlehem #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #JesusChrist #CatholicFaith #BibleJourney
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Pope Francis - A Church that Goes Forth
1 augustus 2026 · 11 min
Series Finale – Pope Francis: A Church That Goes Forth Lees meer
Every journey has a destination—but every ending is also the beginning of something new.
In the final episode of our Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church series, we reflect on the life and legacy of Pope Francis, a shepherd whose call to mercy, humility, missionary discipleship, and joyful evangelization has touched millions around the world.
Together we'll explore his invitation to become a Church that "goes forth"—reaching those on the margins, caring for the forgotten, and sharing the hope of Jesus Christ with compassion and courage. His life reminds us that the Gospel is not meant to remain within the walls of our churches but to be lived every day through love, service, and authentic witness.
As we conclude this series, we also take a moment to look back with gratitude at the inspiring lives we've encountered—from Fulton Sheen and Mother Teresa to Padre Pio, Pope Saint John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, Scott Hahn, Bishop Robert Barron, and so many others. Though each person's mission was unique, they all pointed us to the same Lord: Jesus Christ.
Thank you to everyone who has listened, shared these episodes, offered words of encouragement, and supported The Catholic Journey. Your prayers and kindness have made this series a true blessing, and I am deeply grateful for each of you.
✨ But the journey isn't over...
Coming Next: Walking with Jesus
What if you could step into the Gospel and experience the life of Christ as if you were there?
Our brand-new series, Walking with Jesus, invites you to do just that. Together we'll travel to Bethlehem, Nazareth, the Jordan River, Cana, Capernaum, the Sea of Galilee, the Sermon on the Mount, the Cross, the Empty Tomb, and many other sacred places. Each episode is designed to help you encounter Jesus in a deeper, more personal way—not simply by learning about His life, but by walking beside Him through the pages of the Gospel.
I can't wait to begin …
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Bishop Robert Barron - bringing the Gospel to the DIgital WOrld
31 juli 2026 · 11 min
New Episode – Bishop Robert Barron: Bringing the Gospel to the Digital World Lees meer
How do you proclaim an ancient faith in a digital age?
In Episode 14 of The Catholic Journey, we explore the life and ministry of Bishop Robert Barron, one of the most influential Catholic evangelists of our time. Through his preaching, teaching, books, documentaries, and the global Word on Fire ministry, Bishop Barron has helped millions discover the beauty, truth, and intellectual richness of the Catholic faith.
Join me as we reflect on his passion for evangelization, his ability to connect timeless Catholic teaching with today's culture, and his conviction that every baptized Christian is called to share the Gospel with confidence, charity, and joy.
This episode reminds us that faith and reason work together, beauty can open hearts to God, and the mission of the Church extends far beyond the walls of our parishes. Whether through our conversations, our service, or even our presence online, each of us is called to be a witness to Jesus Christ.
"The Gospel never changes—but every generation is called to proclaim it in a way that reaches the hearts of its own time."
🎧 Listen now and discover how Bishop Robert Barron's witness can inspire you to deepen your faith and boldly share the hope of Christ with the world.
Next Episode: Pope Francis – A Church That Goes Forth, the inspiring conclusion to our Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church series.
#TheCatholicJourney #BishopRobertBarron #WordOnFire #CatholicFaith #Evangelization #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #JesusChrist
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Scott Hahn - Discovering the Catholic Church through Scripture
30 juli 2026 · 11 min
Scott Hahn: Discovering the Catholic Church Through Scripture Lees meer
What happens when a passionate Protestant pastor sets out to prove the Catholic Church wrong... only to discover that Scripture leads him straight to it?
In Episode 13 of The Catholic Journey, we explore the remarkable conversion story of Dr. Scott Hahn, one of the most influential Catholic theologians and biblical scholars of our time. His journey from Presbyterian minister to faithful Catholic reveals how the Bible, the Early Church, and the Eucharist transformed his understanding of Christianity.
Join me as we reflect on Scott Hahn's love for Sacred Scripture, his search for truth, and the powerful lesson that sincere questions, when pursued with humility, can lead us closer to Jesus Christ and His Church.
Whether you're a lifelong Catholic, exploring the faith, or simply looking to deepen your understanding of Scripture, this episode offers encouragement, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of God's Word.
"The deeper we enter Scripture, the deeper we discover Christ—and the Church He established."
🎧 Listen now and share this episode with someone who loves the Bible or is searching for a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith.
Next Episode: Bishop Robert Barron – Bringing the Gospel to the Digital World.
#TheCatholicJourney #ScottHahn #CatholicFaith #Scripture #BibleStudy #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #CatholicApologetics
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St. Gianna Beretta Molla - The Courage to Choose Love
29 juli 2026 · 11 min
St. Gianna Beretta Molla Lees meer
What does authentic love look like in a world that often puts self first? In this inspiring episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the extraordinary life of St. Gianna Beretta Molla—a wife, mother, physician, and modern saint whose courageous witness continues to inspire millions around the world.
Discover how Gianna lived an ordinary life with extraordinary faith, serving her patients with compassion, loving her family wholeheartedly, and ultimately making the heroic decision to place the life of her unborn child before her own. Her story is not simply about one final act of sacrifice—it is about a lifetime of choosing Christ in the everyday moments.
Join us as we reflect on what St. Gianna teaches us about the dignity of every human life, sacrificial love, holiness in family life, and trusting God even in life's most difficult moments. Her example reminds us that sainthood is not reserved for the few—it is the universal call of every Christian.
Listen now and be inspired to live your faith with greater courage, generosity, and love.
#CatholicJourney #StGiannaBerettaMolla #CatholicPodcast #FaithInAction
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Saint Maximiliam Kolbe - The Greatest Love
28 juli 2026 · 11 min
Saint Maximilian Kolbe's life is one of the greatest examples of Christian courage, sacrificial love, and unwavering faith ever witnessed. From his tireless efforts to spread the Gospel through the media to his imprisonment in Auschwitz during World War II, Kolbe lived every moment with a profound trust in God's providence. His final act of voluntarily taking the place of another prisoner condemned to die forever changed the world and revealed the true meaning of Christ's words: "No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends." (John 15:13) Lees meer
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the incredible journey of Saint Maximilian Kolbe—his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, his missionary zeal, his fearless witness in the face of evil, and the enduring legacy of hope he leaves for Christians today. His story reminds us that holiness is not reserved for extraordinary people, but for ordinary people willing to love without limits.
🎧 Join us as we discover how one man's faith became a light in one of history's darkest moments.
#CatholicJourney #StMaximilianKolbe #CatholicPodcast #FaithInAction
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Henri de Lubac - Rediscovering the Heart of the Church
27 juli 2026 · 8 min
Episode 10 – Henri de Lubac: Rediscovering the Heart of the Church Lees meer
What keeps the Catholic Church strong through every generation?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the remarkable life of Henri de Lubac—Jesuit priest, renowned theologian, and one of the most influential Catholic thinkers of the twentieth century.
Though his name may not be as familiar as some of the saints we've explored, his writings helped shape the Church's understanding of Scripture, Tradition, the Eucharist, and the Mystical Body of Christ. His influence was instrumental in preparing the theological foundations that would guide the Second Vatican Council, reminding the Church that authentic renewal always begins by returning to Jesus Christ and the wisdom of the early Church.
Henri de Lubac's life also teaches us an important lesson about faithfulness. During times of misunderstanding and personal trial, he remained loyal to the Church he loved, trusting that God would bring forth His truth in His own time. His humility, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to Christ continue to inspire Catholics around the world.
Join us as we discover how this quiet scholar helped renew the Church—not by changing the faith, but by helping Catholics rediscover its timeless beauty and richness.
"The Church is not merely an institution—it is the Mystical Body of Christ, alive in every generation."
Whether you're a lifelong Catholic or simply seeking a deeper understanding of your faith, this episode will encourage you to treasure the incredible gift of the Church and to continue growing in your knowledge and love of Jesus Christ.
Next Episode: St. Maximilian Kolbe—the courageous Franciscan priest who offered his own life in Auschwitz so that another man, a husband and father, could live. It's one of the most extraordinary stories of sacrificial love in modern Catholic history, and you won't want to miss it.
Join us on The Catholic Journey, where we discover t…
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Rise of the Catholic Man
26 juli 2026 · 9 min
The Catholic Man's Challenge Lees meer
What does it truly mean to be a Catholic man in today's world?
In this powerful episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the unique challenges facing men in a culture that often encourages comfort over courage and self-interest over self-sacrifice. God didn't create men to simply exist—He created them to lead, protect, serve, and love with the heart of Christ.
Whether you are a husband, father, grandfather, son, or single man discerning God's call, this episode offers practical encouragement and a spiritual challenge to live your vocation with purpose and conviction.
Together we'll reflect on what authentic masculinity looks like through the lens of the Gospel, the importance of prayer, integrity, leadership, and self-discipline, and why the world desperately needs men who are willing to stand firm in their Catholic faith.
Jesus never called His disciples to an easy life—He called them to a life of greatness through sacrifice, humility, and love.
If you've ever felt called to become the man God created you to be, this episode is for you.
"Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love." — 1 Corinthians 16:13–14
Join me as we discover that the greatest challenge facing Catholic men today is also the greatest opportunity: to become saints who courageously lead their families, strengthen the Church, and transform the world—one faithful decision at a time.
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Thomas Merton - Finding God in the Silence
26 juli 2026 · 8 min
Thomas Merton: Finding God in the Silence Lees meer
Can you hear God's voice in the middle of life's constant noise?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the remarkable life of Thomas Merton—best-selling author, Trappist monk, and one of the most influential Catholic spiritual writers of the twentieth century.
Merton's journey to God was anything but ordinary. After years of searching for meaning through education, success, and worldly pursuits, he discovered that true peace could only be found in Jesus Christ. His conversion to the Catholic faith and his decision to enter a Trappist monastery transformed not only his own life but also the lives of millions through his timeless writings on prayer, contemplation, and the spiritual life.
In a culture filled with constant distractions, Thomas Merton reminds us that silence is not empty—it is the place where we learn to listen to God. His life challenges us to slow down, deepen our prayer, and make room for Christ to speak to our hearts.
Join us as we discover how moments of quiet can become encounters with God and why a life rooted in prayer is the foundation of every authentic Christian vocation.
"My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going... but I believe that the desire to please You does in fact please You." – Thomas Merton
Whether you're longing for greater peace, a deeper prayer life, or simply a closer relationship with Christ, this episode will encourage you to step away from the noise and rediscover the presence of God waiting in the silence.
Join us on The Catholic Journey, where we continue exploring the lives of extraordinary Catholics whose faith still inspires the Church and the world today.
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Rebuilding the Temple - A 60-Day Catholic Journey to Better Health and Deeper Faith
25 juli 2026 · 9 min
Rebuilding the Temple – A 60-Day Catholic Journey to Better Health and Deeper Faith Lees meer
What if getting healthier wasn't just about losing weight—but about growing closer to God?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the spiritual foundation behind Rebuilding the Temple, a 60-day journey that unites Catholic faith with practical steps toward better physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
Scripture reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Caring for our health isn't about vanity or chasing the world's standards of success. It's about honoring the incredible gift God has given us and becoming better disciples, better spouses, better parents, better grandparents, and better servants of Christ.
Whether you're struggling with your weight, trying to establish healthier habits, or simply looking for a fresh start, this episode offers encouragement, hope, and a reminder that every small, faithful choice matters.
Every healthy meal...
Every walk...
Every prayer...
Every act of self-discipline......is another stone placed in the temple God is rebuilding within you.
No matter where you're starting, God's grace is greater than your setbacks. It's never too late to begin again—one faithful step at a time.
"Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit... Therefore glorify God in your body." — 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Join me as we discover how caring for our bodies can become an act of worship and how God can use even the smallest daily choices to transform our lives from the inside out.
The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns
Helping Catholics live their faith with courage, purpose, and hope—one step at a time. -
Dorothy Day - The Radical Disciple of Christ
25 juli 2026 · 7 min
Episode 8 – Dorothy Day: Finding Christ in the Poor Lees meer
Can one ordinary life truly change the world?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the inspiring life of Dorothy Day—journalist, convert to Catholicism, co-founder of the Catholic Worker Movement, and a woman whose deep faith transformed not only her own life but the lives of countless others.
Dorothy's journey was far from perfect. She experienced doubt, hardship, and personal struggles before discovering that true peace is found in following Jesus Christ. Her conversion led her to dedicate her life to serving the poor, defending the dignity of every human person, and living the Gospel with remarkable courage and compassion.
Join us as we discover how Dorothy Day's example challenges each of us to see Christ in the hungry, the homeless, the forgotten, and even in our neighbors. Her life reminds us that holiness isn't reserved for the extraordinary—it is found in ordinary people who faithfully answer God's call to love.
If you've ever wondered how your faith can make a real difference in the world, this episode will encourage and inspire you to begin with one simple act of mercy at a time.
"The greatest challenge of the day is how to bring about a revolution of the heart." – Dorothy Day
Join us on The Catholic Journey, where we discover how the lives of great Catholics continue to inspire us to follow Christ more faithfully every day.
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The Kingdom is Worth Everything - 17th Sunday Ordinary Time Year a
25 juli 2026 · 10 min
The Kingdom Is Worth Everything Lees meer
What would you be willing to give up to gain something of infinite value?
In this week's homily, we reflect on Jesus' powerful words from Matthew 13:44-52, where He compares the Kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure and a pearl of great price. The people in these parables willingly gave up everything—not out of obligation, but out of overwhelming joy because they had discovered something far greater than anything they already possessed. Jesus teaches that His Kingdom is not simply another priority in our lives; it is the greatest treasure we will ever find.
This homily challenges us to examine our own hearts. What do we treasure most? What is competing for first place in our lives? Christ invites us to stop settling for temporary happiness and instead embrace the eternal joy that comes from following Him wholeheartedly.
Join Deacon Pat for a practical, inspiring reflection that will encourage you to see your faith with fresh eyes and ask one life-changing question:
Have I truly discovered that the Kingdom of God is worth everything?
If this message inspires you, please share it with family and friends, subscribe to The Catholic Journey, and help others discover the greatest treasure of all.
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Pope Benedict XVI - The Humble Defender of Truth
25 juli 2026 · 11 min
Step into the remarkable life of Pope Benedict XVI—one of the greatest theologians of the modern Church and a humble servant of Christ whose wisdom continues to guide Catholics around the world. Lees meer
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the man behind the papacy: his deep love for Jesus Christ, his brilliant defense of the Catholic faith, his commitment to truth in an increasingly secular world, and the historic decision to become the first pope in nearly 600 years to resign. Beyond the headlines, you'll discover a gentle shepherd whose life was devoted to helping others encounter the beauty, reason, and hope found in the Gospel.
Whether you've admired Pope Benedict for years or are just beginning to learn about him, this episode offers inspiring insights into a life of faith, humility, and courage.
Join us as we continue our series on the Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church, and stay tuned for our next episode featuring Dorothy Day, whose extraordinary witness to the poor and the Gospel transformed countless lives.
#CatholicJourney #PopeBenedictXVI #CatholicPodcast #CatholicFaith
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Pope John Paul II - Be Not Afraid
23 juli 2026 · 8 min
Pope St. John Paul II: Be Not Afraid Lees meer
What does it take to change the world?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the extraordinary life of Pope St. John Paul II—a man who endured unimaginable loss, survived the horrors of World War II, stood courageously against Communism, forgave the man who tried to assassinate him, and inspired millions to live boldly for Christ.
Discover how a young man from Poland became one of the most influential spiritual leaders in modern history and why his timeless message, "Be not afraid," is just as relevant today as it was when he first proclaimed it to the world.
Join us as we reflect on his unwavering faith, his profound love for Jesus Christ, his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the lasting legacy he leaves for every Catholic seeking to live with courage, hope, and holiness.
Whether you're already familiar with Pope St. John Paul II or discovering his story for the first time, this episode will challenge you to trust God more deeply, embrace your vocation with confidence, and open your heart more fully to Christ.
"Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors to Christ." – Pope St. John Paul II
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Saint Padre Pio - The Saint Who Bore the Wounds of Christ
22 juli 2026 · 9 min
Episode 5: St. Padre Pio | Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church Lees meer
What happens when one ordinary priest completely surrenders his life to God?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the remarkable life of St. Padre Pio, one of the most beloved and extraordinary saints of the modern Church. From bearing the stigmata for over fifty years to spending countless hours in the confessional, Padre Pio became a living witness to God's mercy, the power of prayer, and the reality of the spiritual life.
Discover the man behind the miracles—his humility, suffering, unwavering obedience, and deep love for the Eucharist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. Learn why thousands traveled from around the world seeking his guidance and why his message remains just as relevant today in a world searching for hope and healing.
Whether you already know Padre Pio or are hearing his story for the first time, this episode will challenge you to deepen your prayer life, trust more completely in God's providence, and remember his timeless words:
"Pray, hope, and don't worry."
Join us as we continue our series, Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church, and don't miss our next episode featuring Pope St. John Paul II, whose courageous faith helped change the course of history.
If this episode inspires you, please like, subscribe, share it with a friend, and help others discover The Catholic Journey.
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Mother Teresa of Calcutta - Small Things with Great Love
21 juli 2026 · 11 min
NEW EPISODE – Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church Lees meer
Episode 4: St. Teresa of Calcutta – Small Things with Great Love
What does true greatness look like?
The world measures greatness by wealth, power, and recognition. St. Teresa of Calcutta measured it by love.
In this episode of The Catholic Journey, we explore the remarkable life of the humble nun who left the comfort of her convent to serve "the poorest of the poor." Discover how her unwavering faith, radical trust in God, and simple acts of compassion transformed millions of lives around the world.
You'll also learn about the hidden struggles she carried for decades—a profound spiritual darkness that she endured with extraordinary faithfulness. Her story reminds us that holiness is not found in doing extraordinary things, but in doing ordinary things with extraordinary love.
Whether you're seeking encouragement, inspiration, or a deeper understanding of authentic Christian service, Mother Teresa's witness will challenge you to see Christ in every person you meet.
Join me as we discover why this humble saint continues to inspire the Church and the world."Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." — St. Teresa of Calcutta
🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.
Coming Next: St. Padre Pio – The Humble Friar Who Bore the Wounds of Christ.
#TheCatholicJourney #StTeresaOfCalcutta #MotherTeresa #CatholicPodcast #CatholicFaith #Saints #ChristianService
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Pope Paul IV - Who Guided the Church Through Change
20 juli 2026 · 9 min
Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church – Episode 3 Lees meer
Pope Paul VI: The Pope Who Guided the Church Through Change
How do you lead the Church through one of the most turbulent periods in modern history while remaining faithful to the timeless teachings of Christ?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the life and legacy of Pope Paul VI—the thoughtful and courageous pope who completed the Second Vatican Council, boldly proclaimed the Gospel to the modern world, and authored the prophetic encyclical Humanae Vitae.
Discover how his quiet humility, unwavering faith, and commitment to truth continue to inspire Catholics today. Learn why his call to authentic Christian witness is just as relevant now as it was more than fifty years ago.Pope Paul VI reminds us that true leadership is not measured by popularity, but by faithfulness to Jesus Christ and the courage to proclaim His truth with love.
🎧 Listen now on The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, available wherever you listen to podcasts.
Coming Next: St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa)—the humble saint who showed the world that we can all change lives by doing small things with great love.
#TheCatholicJourney #PopePaulVI #CatholicPodcast #CatholicFaith #HumanaeVitae #VaticanII #Evangelization #MotherTeresa #DeaconPatKearns
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Pope John XXIII The Good Pope Who Opened the windows of the Church
19 juli 2026 · 10 min
NEW EPISODE | Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church – Episode 2 Lees meer
Pope John XXIII: The Good Pope Who Opened the Windows of the Church
Known simply as "The Good Pope," Pope John XXIII inspired the world with his humility, kindness, and unwavering trust in the Holy Spirit. Though many expected him to be only a transitional pope, God used him to begin one of the most significant chapters in the modern history of the Catholic Church by convening the Second Vatican Council.
In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the life of the humble farmer's son who became one of the Church's most beloved popes. Discover how his joyful spirit, deep compassion, and courageous leadership continue to inspire Catholics to proclaim the timeless truths of the Gospel with hope, charity, and confidence.
Join us as we learn how Pope John XXIII reminds us that true greatness is found not in power or prestige, but in humble service to Christ and His Church.
🎧 Listen now on The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, available wherever you enjoy podcasts.
Coming Next: Pope Paul VI – The Pope Who Guided the Church Through Change.
#TheCatholicJourney #PopeJohnXXIII #TheGoodPope #CatholicPodcast #CatholicChurch #VaticanII #CatholicFaith #DeaconPatKearns
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Archbishop Futon J. Sheen - Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church
18 juli 2026 · 9 min
Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church begins with one of the greatest Catholic communicators of the twentieth century—Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. Lees meer
Long before podcasts, YouTube, or social media, Archbishop Sheen used radio and television to bring the beauty of the Catholic faith into millions of homes. His wisdom, humor, unwavering love for Christ, and lifelong commitment to Eucharistic Adoration continue to inspire Catholics around the world today.
In this episode, you'll discover:
✝️ The remarkable life of Fulton J. Sheen
📺 How he transformed Catholic evangelization through media
🙏 The secret behind his extraordinary ministry
💙 Timeless lessons every Catholic can apply todayWhether you're already familiar with Archbishop Sheen or meeting him for the first time, this episode will encourage you to deepen your faith and boldly share Christ with the world.
🎧 Listen now on The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns wherever you enjoy podcasts.
Coming Next: Pope John XXIII – The Good Pope
#TheCatholicJourney #FultonSheen #CatholicPodcast #CatholicFaith #CatholicChurch #Evangelization #ModernCatholic #DeaconPatKearns
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Creating a Personal Rule of Life
17 juli 2026 · 8 min
🎙️ New Episode: Creating a Personal Rule of Life Lees meer
Do you ever feel like life is running you instead of you living with purpose?
Between work, family, responsibilities, and constant distractions, it's easy to lose sight of what matters most. In this episode of The Catholic Journey, Deacon Pat Kearns introduces the timeless wisdom of St. Benedict's Rule of Life and shows how you can create a Personal Rule of Life that helps you live each day with greater peace, purpose, and intentionality.
Discover why a Rule of Life isn't about following more rules—it's about building simple, faithful habits that keep Jesus Christ at the center of every part of your life.
Whether you're a busy parent, a retiree, a young adult, or simply longing for a deeper relationship with God, this episode will inspire you to take one faithful step toward becoming the person God created you to be.
"Prefer nothing whatever to Christ." — St. Benedict
🎧 Listen today, and begin your journey toward a more intentional Catholic life.
Link to purchase a copy of the workbook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H8LDSKNH?ref_=ast_author_ofdp_rw
#CatholicJourney #RuleOfLife #SaintBenedict #CatholicPodcast
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Thank You for being part of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns
17 juli 2026 · 7 min
A Heartfelt Thank You ❤️ Lees meer
Today's episode is a little different.
Instead of teaching about a saint or exploring the history of the Church, I simply wanted to pause and say thank you.
I am deeply humbled and grateful by the incredible growth of The Catholic Journey Podcast and by the support you've shown across YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, X, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, SoundCloud, and so many other platforms.
Every listen, every subscription, every comment, every message, and every time you share an episode has helped spread the Gospel far beyond anything I could have imagined. I'm equally grateful for your encouragement of my books and written ministry. Knowing that these resources are helping people grow closer to Christ is a blessing I never take for granted.
This podcast has never been about numbers. It has always been about helping people encounter Jesus, deepen their Catholic faith, and discover the beauty of the Church.
As we prepare to begin our new series, Influential People of the Modern Catholic Church, I invite you to continue this journey with me. I believe God has wonderful things ahead, and I'm honored that we can walk this road together.
From the bottom of my heart...
Thank you for listening. Thank you for praying. Thank you for sharing this journey of faith.May God richly bless you and your families.
— Deacon Pat Kearns
The Catholic Journey Podcast -
Laodicea - The Lukewarm Church
16 juli 2026 · 10 min
Laodicea – The Lukewarm Church Lees meer
In this final episode of our series on the Seven Churches of Revelation, we journey to the prosperous city of Laodicea, where Jesus delivers one of the most sobering messages found in all of Scripture.
"You are neither cold nor hot... because you are lukewarm, I will spit you out of my mouth." (Revelation 3:15–16)Why would Jesus speak such strong words to a successful church? What made Laodicea spiritually complacent despite its wealth and influence? And what does this ancient message reveal about our own lives today?
Together we'll explore:
• The fascinating history of Laodicea and why it was known for its wealth, banking, eye medicine, and black wool.
• The powerful symbolism behind Jesus' warning about being "lukewarm."
• The danger of self-sufficiency and spiritual complacency.
• Christ's loving invitation: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock."
• Practical ways to renew our faith and become disciples who are truly on fire for Christ.Although this message was written nearly 2,000 years ago, it speaks directly to Christians living in today's comfortable, distracted, and self-reliant culture.
Join me as we conclude our journey through the Seven Churches of Revelation and discover how Christ continues to call His Church—and each one of us—to wholehearted faith, repentance, and renewed zeal.
Thank you for listening to The Catholic Journey Podcast. If this series has encouraged your faith, please consider following, sharing, and leaving a review so that together we can help more people discover the beauty and truth of the Catholic faith.
#CatholicJourney #BookOfRevelation #Laodicea #CatholicPodcast #BibleStudy #ChristianDiscipleship #CatholicFaith
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Philadelphia - The Faithful Church
15 juli 2026 · 10 min
Philadelphia – The Faithful Church Lees meer
What if Jesus wrote a letter to your church—and had nothing to rebuke?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey, we visit the ancient city of Philadelphia, one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. Though small and seemingly weak, this faithful community received only words of encouragement from Christ.
Discover the meaning behind the "open door" that no one can shut, why Jesus praised those with "little strength," and the incredible promise of becoming a pillar in the temple of God.
In a world that often measures success by size, popularity, and influence, the Church of Philadelphia reminds us that God measures something far more important: faithfulness.
If you've ever felt unnoticed, discouraged, or too weak to make a difference, this episode is for you.
Join Deacon Pat Kearns as we uncover timeless lessons that will strengthen your faith and inspire you to remain steadfast in following Christ.
Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!
#CatholicJourney #SevenChurches #Philadelphia #BookOfRevelation #CatholicPodcast #Faithfulness #BibleStudy #ChristianLiving
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Sardis - The Church that Looked Alive but was Spiritually Dead
14 juli 2026 · 10 min
Episode 21: Sardis – The Church That Looked Alive but Was Spiritually Asleep Lees meer
What if everything about your faith looked healthy on the outside... but your heart had quietly drifted from God?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey Podcast, Deacon Pat Kearns explores Jesus' powerful message to the church in Sardis from Revelation 3. Once a city known for its wealth and confidence, Sardis became a symbol of spiritual complacency. Jesus' words are both sobering and hopeful: "Wake up! Strengthen what remains."
Together we'll discover:
Why spiritual complacency is one of the greatest dangers facing Christians today.
How appearances can hide a weakening relationship with Christ.
The hope Jesus offers to every believer who is willing to awaken, repent, and begin again.
Practical ways to renew your prayer life, deepen your faith, and walk more closely with the Lord.Whether you've been following Christ for decades or feel your spiritual life has grown routine, this episode is a loving invitation to wake up and experience the new life that only Jesus can give.
Next Episode: Philadelphia – The Faithful Church and the Open Door No One Can Shut.
🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who could use a renewed sense of hope and purpose in their walk with Christ.
#CatholicJourneyPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #BookOfRevelation #SevenChurches #Sardis #CatholicFaith #SpiritualRenewal #WakeUp #BibleStudy #ChristianLiving
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Thyatira
13 juli 2026 · 10 min
Episode 20 – Thyatira: Faithful Hearts in a Compromising World Lees meer
What does it mean to remain faithful in a culture that constantly pressures us to compromise?
In this episode of The Catholic Journey, Deacon Pat Kearns continues the Hidden Treasures of the Early Church series by exploring the ancient city of Thyatira—a hardworking community praised by Jesus for its love, faith, service, and perseverance, yet warned about the subtle dangers of compromise.
Discover why Christ's message to Thyatira is just as relevant today as it was nearly 2,000 years ago. Learn how small compromises can slowly pull us away from God, why truth and love must always go together, and what it means to "hold fast" to our faith in an increasingly challenging world.
Whether you're seeking spiritual encouragement, a deeper understanding of the Book of Revelation, or practical ways to strengthen your walk with Christ, this episode will challenge and inspire you.
"Hold fast to what you have until I come." — Revelation 2:25
🎧 Listen now and continue your journey through the Seven Churches of Revelation.
#CatholicJourney #BookOfRevelation #Thyatira #SevenChurches #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns #Faith #BibleStudy #ChristianLiving #HoldFast