Parousia Podcast

In this episode of the Parousia Podcast, Charbel Raish sits down with Father Michael Lim, a priest of the Archdiocese of Canberra-Goulburn, to discuss his extraordinary journey from a successful Buddhist real estate agent in Singapore to the Catholic priesthood. Father Michael shares the dramatic "turning point" of his life: a miraculous healing of his sister at a charismatic session that forced him to realize that "Jesus is alive". We dive into the philosophy of Buddhism versus the revelation of Christianity, the power of Christian meditation, and Father Michael’s new book, Who Am I? In God Discovering our Christian Identity. Whether you are a lifelong Catholic or someone searching for the meaning of life, Father Michael’s testimony is a powerful reminder that God never stops reaching out to His children. Purchase Fr Michael's book at: https://parousiamedia.com/who-am-i-in-god-discovering-our-christian-identity-fr-michael-lim-dr-sunny-hong-lim-hong-paperback/?searchid=0&search_query=lim Fr Michael's Website: https://jesusisalive.com.au 00:00 – Preview: "Jesus is alive, He’s real". 01:21 – Introducing Fr. Michael Lim and his book Who Am I?. 02:45 – Life in Singapore vs. the "Bush Diocese" of Canberra-Goulburn. 06:22 – Growing up Buddhist: The plan to become a monk at age 40. 07:22 – The Miracle: Challenging Jesus to heal his sister’s arthritis. 09:38 – "The rest was history": From the healing to the Tabernacle. 10:49 – Entering the Seminary: Testing the calling. 15:23 – Philosophy vs. Revelation: The difference between Buddhism and Christianity. 19:14 – Dealing with Desire: Why Buddhists and Christians meditate. 23:08 – The "Mantra" and the Elephant: How to focus in prayer. 24:34 – A Prime Minister’s Secret: Lee Kuan Yew and Christian meditation. 30:56 – The Identity Crisis: Why modern children don’t know God loves them. 34:54 – Image and Likeness: The "Shadow" and the "Object". 46:39 – Encountering Pure Love: Fr. Michael’s 30-day silent retreat. 54:21 – The Power of Forgiveness: A daughter’s words that broke a father’s heart. 59:24 – Goulburn: Restoring Australia’s only "Greenstone" Cathedral. 01:01:15 – First-Class Relics: St. Mary MacKillop, St. Bernadette, and more. Parousia Socials: facebook.com/parousiamedia instagram.com/parousiamedia tiktok.com/parousiamedia Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute. Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/

Is the Eucharist just a symbol, or is it something more? In this episode of The Journey to the International Eucharistic Congress 2028, Fr Ben Saliba and Professor Hayden Ramsay are joined by world-renowned theologian Professor Tracy Rowland (University of Notre Dame) to unpack one of the most profound mysteries of the Catholic faith: The Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. As we prepare for the ‘Eucharist28’ in Sydney, it is vital to understand what we believe and why. Professor Rowland breaks down the theological differences between Catholic and Protestant views and discusses the role of faith in recognising Christ’s presence when our senses perceive only bread and wine. Professor Rowland’s piece "The Presence of Christ in the Eucharist," is available now on the Eucharist28 website https://eucharist28.org/parishes/the-presence-of-christ-in-the-eucharist JOIN THE MOVEMENT and stay connected in the lead up to Eucharist28 https://eucharist28.org/join-us Eucharist28 Socials: instagram.com/eucharist_28 facebook.com/eucharist28 x.com/eucharist28 Parousia Socials: facebook.com/parousiamedia instagram.com/parousiamedia tiktok.com/parousiamedia   Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute. Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/

Episode 4 - Cultivating One's Personal Vocation and Mission This final episode of the series explores how God works powerfully through wounded hearts, generous mentors, and ordinary people who choose to say yes. It reveals that leadership is not reserved for the perfect or the fearless, but for those willing to be shaped through faith, trust, and perseverance. These are stories of personal transformation, where grace meets human weakness and turns it into something fruitful and life-giving. Steve Lawrence invites us to rediscover what it truly means to live with purpose. Through reflection and lived experience, this episode encourages viewers to consider how influence, faith, and courage intersect in everyday life, and how responding to God’s call can lead not only to personal renewal, but to meaningful service of others. Visit Steve's website: stevelawrence.com.au altumgroup.net Steve's book Tiny Book for Giant Men: https://parousiamedia.com/the-tiny-book-for-giant-men-steve-lawrence-paperback/ Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

Episode 3 - Growing a Culture of Faith In this third episode of our conversation with Steve Lawrence, we explore one of the most crucial questions facing our Church, our schools, and our families today: How do we grow a genuine culture of faith? Building on the previous episode’s discussion about the challenges within education, Steve reflects on the fundamental truth that you cannot give what you do not have. A culture of faith begins with individuals who are rooted in prayer, silence, and a living relationship with Christ. Throughout the episode, Steve uses powerful imagery—fire that needs dry wood, soil that must be cleared, and seeds that grow only when tended—to illustrate how faith takes shape in the human heart. He speaks about the importance of making space for the Holy Spirit, of embracing silence in a noisy world, and of allowing God’s mercy to transform us from within. The conversation highlights the need for authentic witness, reminding us that people are moved far more by lived faith than by instruction alone. We also reflect on the temptations that can arise within church communities, especially the danger of becoming like the “older brother” in the parable of the prodigal son—judgmental, hardened, or blind to our own need for conversion. Steve and Salwa discuss the beauty of welcoming families and children, even amidst the distractions they bring, because a noisy church is a sign of a growing one. They explore the humility required to step aside and allow God to work, as well as the courage to trust His timing in our personal mission and in the life of the Church. Ultimately, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to examine our own hearts and ask how we can personally contribute to a culture of faith. It reminds us that everything begins with intimacy with Christ, openness to grace, and the daily choice to let His love shine through us. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we turn to the themes of vocation and mission—discovering how each of us is called to live out our faith in a unique and transformative way. Visit Steve's website: stevelawrence.com.au Steve's book Tiny Book for Giant Men: https://parousiamedia.com/the-tiny-book-for-giant-men-steve-lawrence-paperback/ Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

Episode 2 - The Challenges Facing Catholic Educators Today In this second episode of A Call to Lead, Steve Lawrence joins us again to dive deep into the real challenges facing Catholic educators and school leaders today. From the inspiring role of Barnabas in forming St Paul, to the pressures teachers face in modern schooling systems, this conversation shines a light on the heart of Catholic leadership—encouragement, formation, discernment, and courage. Steve unpacks how the example of Barnabas’ mentorship shaped St Paul and what this means for leaders today, reflecting on the essential role of encouragement for principals, teachers, and staff. He explores the tension between authentic Catholic identity and increasing secular pressures, while also addressing the unique struggles educators face from administrative overload and the loneliness of being one of the few faith-filled staff members, to the challenges of teaching sensitive topics in a culture that often misunderstands or resists the Church’s perspective. Steve also discusses the importance of strong relationships between schools and families, the impact of social media on young minds, and why the Catholic vision of salvation and the supernatural must once again become central in forming our students. Whether you are a teacher, leader, parent, or anyone passionate about the future of Catholic education, this episode offers wisdom, clarity, and hope for building strong, faith-filled communities in our schools. Stay tuned for the next episode where we explore how to grow a culture of faith. Visit Steve's website: stevelawrence.com.au Steve's book Tiny Book for Giant Men: https://parousiamedia.com/the-tiny-book-for-giant-men-steve-lawrence-paperback/ Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

In this episode Charbel sits down with Fr Sam French, one of Australia’s most dynamic Catholic voices online. Fr Sam shares the story of his calling, his journey through discernment, and the moment God made his vocation unmistakably clear. He reflects on how both charismatic and traditional expressions of faith shaped him, and how his experience as a vocations director taught him what authentic discernment really looks like. Fr Sam also reveals why he uses humour and culturally relevant content on social media, showing how digital evangelisation can open hearts in surprising ways and make the priesthood relatable. This honest and uplifting conversation is perfect for anyone seeking clarity, direction, or inspiration in their faith. For all of Fr Sam's social links, resources and more visit: www.frsamfrench.com For more information about Fr Sam's Spiritual Conversations Group visit: https://www.manlyfreshwaterparish.org Joseph House Broken Bay Diocese Link: https://www.bbcatholic.org.au/mission/vocations/joseph-house Broken Bay Vocations Link: https://www.bbcatholic.org.au/mission/vocations Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

In this first episode of our four-part series, Salwa sits down with Steve Lawrence to explore the powerful story behind his life, his leadership, and the calling that shaped his mission. From his father’s remarkable journey in Rhodesia, to the Jesuit mentor who changed the course of his family’s faith, to Steve’s own encounter with Jesus during a turbulent adolescence—this episode traces the key moments that formed the man he is today. Steve opens up about:  The influence of a family priest and the legacy of encouragement.  Growing up in a home marked by conflict, and discovering Jesus in the midst of darkness.  His surprising path from professional AFL footballer to educator, missionary, and leader.  How grace, vocation, and resilience shaped his passion for forming others Why encouragement and faith are at the heart of true leadership This deeply personal conversation sets the foundation for the rest of the series, inviting viewers to reflect on the people and moments that have shaped their own calling. Whether you’re an educator, a leader, or simply someone searching for purpose, Steve’s story is a reminder that God uses every experience—joy, pain, uncertainty—to prepare us for mission. Stay tuned for Episode 2, where we dive into the challenges facing leaders and educators today.

In this Parousia Podcast Archive we look back at Charbel's discussion with Dr Scott Hahn on his book "The Decline and Fall of Sacred Scripture: How the Bible Became a Secular Book." What is wrong with Scripture scholarship today? Why is it that the last place one should go to study the Bible is a biblical studies program at virtually any university? Why are so many faithful priests and pastors, and the people in their pews, unaware of the centuries-long effort to turn the sacred Word of God into just another secular text? In The Decline and Fall of Sacred Scripture: How the Bible Became a Secular Book, authors Scott Hahn and Benjamin Wiker trace the various malformations of Scripture scholarship that have led to a devastating loss of trust in the inspired Word of God. From the Reformation to the Enlightenment and beyond, Hahn and Wiker sketch the revolutions and radical figures that led to the emergence of the historical-critical method and the pervasive ill effects that are still being felt today. Purchase the book here: https://parousiamedia.com/the-decline-and-fall-of-sacred-scripture-how-the-bible-became-a-secular-book-scott-hahn-benjamin-wiker-emmaus-road-paperback/?searchid=0&search_query=Scott+hahn Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/blog/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

In this episode of the Parousia Podcast, Charbel sits down with children's author, Carmel Assaf to discuss her new book "The Donkey in the Mill." Written to encourage families to explore timeless virtues together. Carmel is a teacher and storyteller who has spent her career inspiring young minds in classrooms across the United Kingdom, Russia, and her home country of Australia. She has taught both primary and secondary students, always with a focus on sparking imagination and a love of learning. The Donkey In The Mill - Hardback https://parousiamedia.com/the-donkey-in-the-mill-carmel-assaf-character-for-kids-hardcover/?searchid=0&search_query=donkey+mill Character For Kids website: https://www.characterforkids.com.au Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

When and how did we get confused about our gender? In this episode of the Parousia Podcast, Charbel Raish talks with Jason Evert (Catholic speaker, author and founder of the Chastity Project) about his latest book, 'Male, Female, Other: A Catholic Guide to Understanding Gender'. They discuss the current brokenness within our culture when it comes to this topic, along with some ideas as to how we can respond with charity and clarity. https://chastity.com/ https://chastity.org/ https://chastity.com/gender/ Male, Female, Other? https://parousiamedia.com/male-female-other-a-catholic-guide-to-understanding-gender-jason-evert-chastity-project-paperback/?searchid=0&search_query=jason+evert The Dating Blueprint https://parousiamedia.com/the-dating-blueprint-jason-evert-totus-tuus-press-paperback/?searchid=0&search_query=jason+evert Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

In this episode from our Archives, Fr Spitzer speaks about how the soul can be proven to exist by citing many near-death experiences. To find out more about near-death experiences, and to discover many other ways in which the material sciences do not contradict the Catholic faith, and in fact affirm the Catholic faith, visit www.crediblecatholic.com Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.  

In this episode, Charbel speaks with Fr Daniel Klimek, to explore his deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and the power of the Rosary in daily life. Fr Daniel shares the journey of his own Marian spirituality, offering personal reflections that reveal how true devotion to Our Lady always leads us closer to Jesus. He also discusses his new book, With Jesus and Mary, a heartfelt guide for anyone seeking to grow in love for Christ through Mary’s example and intercession. The book draws from Scripture, the saints, and the insight of mystics to help immerse readers in the mysteries of the Rosary. Fr. Daniel Klimek brings to life the thought of Pope St. John Paul II, St. John of the Cross, St. Josemaría Escrivá, St. Faustina Kowalska, and mystics such as Venerable Maria of Ágreda and Caryll Houselander, uncovering little-known spiritual treasures that will enrich the prayer and reflection of all.

In this episode Charbel speaks with author Meg Hunter-Kilmer about her books about Saints.The lives of the Saints are one of the most powerful ways God draws people to himself, showing us the love and the joy we can find in him. But so often, these Saints seem distant―impossibly holy or dull or unlike us in race and age and state in life. In Saints Around the World, you'll meet over one-hundred Saints from more than sixty countries, including Saints with different disabilities, strengths, and struggles. All of Meg's books are available at Parousiamedia.com in the link below (AUSTRALIA/NZ/ASIA): https://parousiamedia.com/search.php?search_query=kilmer&section=product#y=232 USA: https://stpaulcenter.com/search?q=meg%20hunter-kilmer&type=store Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

Fr Spitzer explains some of the miraculous events related to apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He then goes on to give us some tips on how to pray the rosary, digging into the treasury of spiritual wealth found in the Ignatian tradition. Fr. Spitzer is a Catholic Priest in the Jesuit order (Society of Jesus) and is currently the President of the Magis Center and the Spitzer Center.

In this episode, Charbel speaks with author Maura Roan McKeegan. Maura is the author of a number of Catholic picture books, including the award-winning Old and New series; Where is Jesus Hidden?; St. Conrad and the Wildfire; The Poorest Shepherd; Julia Greeley: Secret Angel to the Poor; and Seven Clues: A Catholic Treasure Hunt, co-authored with Scott Hahn. Purchase Maura's books here: Australia: https://parousiamedia.com/search.php?search_query=maura+roan+keegan&section=product#y=528 International: https://stpaulcenter.com/search?q=maura%20roan%20mckeegan&type=store Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.  

In this episode Charbel sits down with Fr Chris Ryan MGL. They discuss parish life, Fr Chris's new book, the flourishing faith with record adult Baptisms, Catholic social media personalities and the Arete Centre - a program for people seeking to deepen their commitment to serving the Church and its mission. Fr Chris Ryan's book, Preaching On Purpose: https://parousiamedia.com/preaching-on-purpose-colautti-lobo-mcdowell-ryan-divine-renovation-paperback/?searchid=0&search_query=chris+ryan Arete Center: https://aretecentre.org/ Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

The Round Table is back! Charbel Raish and Fr Ben Saliba are joined by Helena Roumanus and Anthony Salame. Fr Ben shares his experience meeting Pope Leo, and the rest of the team share about their overseas travels. The team also talk about new content set to be released by Parousia shortly. Parousia fundraising dinner tickets: www.parousia.com.au/fundraiser Dr Edward Sri Tour: www.parousia.com.au/edsritour Harvest Pilgrimage to Mexico: https://bookings.harvestjourneys.com/pv2616 Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

In this episode Fr Ian VanHeusen talks about his life, his connection to the Maronite church and his three books. Fr Ian shares his insights on discipline, meditation, contemplation and prayer. Filmed before his talk at St Jerome's Parish, Punchbowl, Fr Ian also shares what his talk will be about. Join Charbel and Fr Ian as the crowd begins to build behind them.   Watch Fr Ian's talk that followed the Podcast here: https://youtu.be/rHyNhBPRAps Fr Ian's Books The Mystical Ascent: The Journey of Everyday Believers Who Seek God: https://parousiamedia.com/the-mystical-ascent-the-journey-of-everyday-believers-who-seek-god-fr-ian-van-heusen-art-of-living-well-publishing-paperback/?searchid=0&search_query=fr+Ian+vanheusen The War Within: How To discern Between Divine Assistance and the Attacks of the Devil: https://parousiamedia.com/the-war-within-how-to-discern-between-divine-assistance-and-the-attacks-of-the-devil-fr-ian-van-heusen-beow-s-publishing-house-paperback/?searchid=0&search_query=fr+Ian+vanheusen Angels & Demons: https://parousiamedia.com/angels-demons-fr-ian-van-heusen-beow-s-publishing-house-paperback/?searchid=0&search_query=fr+Ian+vanheusen  

In this episode Charbel speaks with author and co-founder of the St Paul Centre, Mike Aquilina. They discuss the early church fathers and the rapid growth of the universal church in the face of such adversity. Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/ Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.

In this episode, Fr Ben Saliba sits down with Pro Life doctor Dr Simon McCaffrey. They discuss the failure of the revolution of birth control, the Pro Life movement, Natural Family Planning, peer and family pressure and more. Join the Parousia mailing list at https://www.parousiamedia.com/mailing-list/   Parousia is committed to proclaiming the fullness of truth! If you wish to help us in our mission with a donation please visit our website here https://www.parousiamedia.com/donate/ to learn ways that you can contribute.