The Tangent on Veritas Catholic Network

In this episode of The Tangent, host Matt Sperazza and Father Sam Kachuba interview Anthony D'Ambrosio, the writer and director of 'Triumph of the Heart,' a film about St. Maximilian Kolbe. They discuss the unique storytelling approach taken in the film, focusing on character development and the themes of hope and despair. Anthony shares insights into the challenges of producing Catholic films and the need for a cultural shift to support quality Catholic media. The conversation emphasizes the importance of film as a medium for spiritual reflection and the potential for a renaissance in Catholic cinema.   Link to Watch Triumph of the Heart: https://www.triumphoftheheart.com/

Pope Leo XIV published his first Apostolic Exhortation, Dilexi Te. He Addressed this exhortation "On Love For the Poor" to All Christians. It is well worth the read and can be found in the show notes below. In this conversation Fr. Sam and Matt discuss Pope Leo XIV's viral words on technology, explain why Charity is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, and speak about why prudence is necessary when responding to the needs of the poor. They talk about how the media often portrays the poor in a negative light, share how encountering the poor involves understanding their stories and go over why the call to care for the poor is universal and timeless. Much of this conversation is also spent discussing the influence that Pope Francis had on the document, parsing out which parts Pope Leo XIV may have influenced the most. SHOW NOTES Dilexi Te: https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/apost_exhortations/documents/20251004-dilexi-te.html IG: https://www.instagram.com/thetangent_catholic/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veritascatholic Email List: https://www.veritascatholic.com  

If you've ever asked yourself how to say the Rosary, or more, how to say the family rosary, this episode is filled with advice of, yes, Fr. Sam and Matt, but more importantly VENERABLE Father Patrick Peyton. Fr. Patrick Peyton is best known for his phrase, "The family that prays together stays together". Father Peyton's devotion to the rosary and his efforts to promote family prayer have left a lasting impression on millions (even billions) worldwide. Father Sam shares personal anecdotes and insights into Father Peyton's journey from a small farm in Ireland to becoming a global advocate for the rosary, emphasizing the importance of prayer in nurturing family bonds and spiritual growth. The discussion also touches on the role of spiritual fatherhood and its significance in today's world. Father Sam and Matt explore how the concept of spiritual fatherhood has evolved and its critical role in addressing the challenges faced by the modern Church. They reflect on the influence of a father's spiritual leadership within the family and the broader community, drawing parallels between Father Peyton's mission and the responsibilities of contemporary spiritual leaders.

In this episode, Fr. Sam shares his profound experiences from a recent pilgrimage, highlighting the spiritual depth and historical significance of several key locations. The journey begins with a visit to Rome, where Fr. Sam attends a Papal audience. He describes the powerful sense of unity and spiritual fatherhood felt in the presence of the Pope, who, with his American-accented English, connects deeply with the pilgrims. This moment underscores the Pope's role as a spiritual leader for Catholics worldwide, emphasizing the importance of prayer, particularly the rosary, during the month of October. The pilgrimage continues to Assisi, where Fr. Sam participates in the Transitus, a celebration marking the passing of St. Francis. The experience is enriched by the presence of the Italian President, highlighting the deep-rooted Catholic traditions in Italian society. Fr. Sam reflects on the significance of Assisi as a pilgrimage site, noting the large number of pilgrims and the spiritual renewal it offers. The visit to the tomb of St. Francis provides a moment of reflection and connection with the saint's legacy. A highlight of the journey is the visit to Orvieto, home to the Eucharistic miracle that occurred in 1263. Fr. Sam recounts the story of the miracle, where a priest's doubts about transubstantiation were dispelled when the host began to bleed. This event led to the establishment of the Feast of Corpus Christi. The pilgrimage also includes a stop at Loreto, where the Holy House of Nazareth is believed to have been miraculously transported by angels. Fr. Sam shares the historical and archaeological evidence supporting this tradition, emphasizing the house's significance as a place of prayer and reflection. Throughout the pilgrimage, Fr. Sam experiences moments of spiritual fatherhood, particularly when introducing his parishioners to the tomb of St. Pius X. This act of guiding his community to meet their patron saint reflects the deeper calling of his priesthood—to lead others to a closer relationship with Jesus. The pilgrimage, filled with unexpected encounters and spiritual insights, becomes a journey of personal and communal growth, leaving a lasting impact on Fr. Sam and his fellow pilgrims. LINKS instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetangent_catholic/ Email list: https://www.veritascatholic.com    

this episode (previously available in audio format only) is the final of our re-release series. Fr. Vincent Lampert, a well known exorcist, joins Fr. Sam and Matt to answer all their questions about the ministry of exorcism. He dives into true stories from exorcisms he's performed, how the occult can lead to possession, he comments on Harry Potter, spiritual warfare prayers, and most importantly Christ's Victory on the Cross.

This week we re-release our episode with Fr. Robert Spitzer, SJ. Fr. Spitzer joins the Tangent to discuss Near Death Experiences and the Shroud of Turin, ultimately showing how scientific discovery is PROVING the existence of God, and especially Christianity, not disproving it.   Faith and Science Course: https://sophiateachers.org/courses/the-catholic-faith-and-science/ Veritas Email List: www.veritascatholic.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetangent_catholic/ facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veritascatholic/  

Fr. Daniel Klimek joins Matt Sperrazza and Fr. Sam Kachuba on this week's episode of the Tangent to discuss his new book through Emmaus Road Publishing, With Jesus and Mary: Reflections on the Rosary (link below). Per usual, many Tangents were taken, so this week we discuss everything from the Rosary, to the difference between ascetical and mystical prayer, to how one can properly dispose oneself to receive the grace of mystical prayer. Fr. Daniel also shares some insight on discernment from his own vocation journey. SHOWNOTES With Jesus and Mary: Reflections on the Rosary - https://stpaulcenter.com/store/with-jesus-and-mary-reflections-on-the-rosary LINKS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veritascatholic/ facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veritascatholic/  

In this conversation, Father Sam and Matt discuss the tragedy of Charlie Kirk's murder. They cover martyrdom, civility in discourse, and the impact of ideas on society. They also discuss the distinction between objective truth and subjective experience (why relativism is false but subjective experience is true), the role of humility in arguments, and how faith influences political discourse. The dialogue emphasizes the need for empathy, understanding, and the importance of engaging in civil discussions, especially in a polarized society. LINKS  Email list: www.veritascatholic.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/veritascatholic Instagram: www.instagram.com/veritascatholic/          

On this week's episode of the Tangent, Fr. Sam and Matt interview Clare Morell. Clare Morell is a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center in the Bioethics, Technology and Human Flourishing Program. She has worked in both the White House Counsel’s Office and the Department of Justice, as well as in the private and non-profit sectors. She is also the author of the forthcoming book, The Tech Exit: A Practical Guide to Freeing Kids and Teens from Smartphones, has been published by Penguin Random House (link below) Tech Exit: https://sites.prh.com/thetechexitbook Other Veritas Shows  Let Me Be Frank: https://bridgeportdiocese.podbean.com/ The Frontline With Joe & Joe: https://thefrontlinewithjoeandjoe.podbean.com/ Restless Catholic Young Adults: https://restlesscatholicmedia.podbean.com/ Daily Gospel Reflections: https://dailycatholicreflection.podbean.com/ Email List www.veritascatholic.com Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veritascatholic/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/veritascatholic

First and foremost, this is not an episode of hot-takes. Recognizing the terrible tragedy at Annunciation School is an event that impacts the Universal Church as well as the local Church, Fr. Sam and I (Matt) reflect on suffering and forgiveness. Our conversation springs from the guidance and words offered to the faithful by the Pastor of Annunciation Church, Fr. Zehren; Archbishop Hebda; and Jeff Cavins, on behalf of Hallow. We highly suggest you check out their words for yourself (linked below), they are important and powerful. Most of all, please pray for the families of Annunciation Church. SHOWNOTES Fr. Zehren's homily: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_YqjKo3zY4&ab_channel=ArchdioceseSPM Archbishop Hebda's homily: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OE2qBuD52TU&feature=youtu.be Jeff Cavin's on Behalf of Hallow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCH2u0NF7Lk&feature=youtu.be _____________________________________________________________________ Email List www.veritascatholic.com Other Veritas Shows Let Me Be Frank: https://bridgeportdiocese.podbean.com/ The Frontline With Joe & Joe: https://thefrontlinewithjoeandjoe.podbean.com/ Restless Catholic Young Adults: https://restlesscatholicmedia.podbean.com/ Daily Gospel Reflection: https://dailycatholicreflection.podbean.com/  

Fr. Sam and Matt discuss some of the elements of Pope Leo XIV's papacy they've been encouraged and edified by. They also "predict" some of the things they are excited to see from the new Pope in the coming months and years.  Some topics include:  Pope Leo XIV's work with youth, especially how he's engaging NCYC Pope Leo's Augustinian roots  Pope Leo's approach to the liturgy A "Prognostication" of the topic for Pope Leo's First Papal Encyclical.  Sign up for our email list: www.veritascatholic.com Other Veritas Shows: Let Me Be Frank: https://bridgeportdiocese.podbean.com/ The Frontline With Joe & Joe: https://thefrontlinewithjoeandjoe.podbean.com/ Restless Catholic Young Adults: https://restlesscatholicmedia.podbean.com/ Daily Gospel Reflections: https://dailycatholicreflection.podbean.com/    

Fr. Sam flies solo on this week's episode of the Tangent, interviewing Cece Donoghue and Jamie Manirakiza about PEHT, the Partnership to End Human Trafficking. They tackle some of the difficult questions that surround human trafficking: How do you spot trafficking? How can you protect your kids from trafficking? Is there anything we can do?  This week's conversation is an important one, to see how you can help PEHT visit their website below. PEHT: https://peht.org/  

Fr. Sam and Matt sit down to discuss the modern apostolate of being a digital missionary or influencer by breaking down Pope Leo XIV's recent address.    Shownotes Read Pope Leo XIV's address here Email List   Other Veritas Shows  Let Me Be Frank with Bishop Frank Caggiano Daily Gospel Reflections Restless Catholic Young Adults the Frontline with Joe & Joe

In this conversation, Matt, Fr. Sam and Jamie Baxter discusses the origin and impact of Exodus 90 on personal and communal faith journeys. They share personal stories of conversion, the origins and goals of the program, and the importance of intentionality in spiritual growth. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced in seminary formation and the role of prayer and community in navigating these challenges. Ultimately, Exodus 90 is adaptable for men at different stages of their faith. Also discussed are St. Michael's Lent, the logistics of silent of prayer, and the importance of good Catholic festivity. This one's a lot of fun! Email List: www.veritascatholic.com

Fr. Sam and Matt discuss the importance of liturgical norms in the universal church. That might seem like a topic that covers rubrics alone, but the core of the topic is how to balance diversity while maintaining unity in worship. Thus, Church governance, liturgical preferences, canon law, and authentic worship are all covered.  Email List: www.veritascatholic.com Other Veritas shows: Let Me Be Frank: https://bridgeportdiocese.podbean.com/ The Frontline With Joe & Joe: https://thefrontlinewithjoeandjoe.podbean.com/ Restless Catholic Young Adults: https://restlesscatholicmedia.podbean.com/ Daily Gospel Reflections: https://dailycatholicreflection.podbean.com/   Keywords liturgy, rubrics, ecclesiastical norms, pastoral care, priesthood, worship, tradition, unity, diversity, Catholic Church, Catholicism, liturgy, religious submission, unity, obedience, community, faith, worship, norms, development  

Fr. Sam and Matt take a leap from Romans 8 into an entire discussion on the interplay between prayer and suffering. They discuss amongst other things: the role of good health in a good spiritual life, the pastoral necessity of good physical health, how everything needs to seen through Pope St. John Paul II's lens of "self-gift", the importance of being physically present to others and, naturally, transhumanism.   Email List: www.veritascatholic.com     Keywords suffering, prayer, Christian faith, adoption, Romans, body and spirit, transhumanism, health, self-discipline, mortality, health, ministry, physical presence, austerity, bodily care, spirit and flesh, physical health, decision-making, vocation, self-gift, theology of the body  

Fr. Sam and Matt continue their conversation on St. Therese of Lisieux from last week, diving into some of the fundamentals of prayer - consolation and desolation. Fr. Sam draws the distinction between the two categories and then their subcategories (spiritual vs. non-spiritual consolation/desolation). He uses the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola as the launching pad for this discussion.  Email List: https://www.veritascatholic.com/ Other shows Daily Gospel Reflections: https://dailycatholicreflection.podbean.com/ Let Me Be Frank: https://bridgeportdiocese.podbean.com/ The Frontline With Joe & Joe: https://thefrontlinewithjoeandjoe.podbean.com/ Restless Catholic Young Adults: https://restlesscatholicmedia.podbean.com/ Keywords Tangent, consolation, desolation, prayer, consistency, spiritual growth, faith, Lewis and Clark, The Chosen  

Matt and Father Sam focus on the life and spirituality of St. Therese. They discuss the importance of boldness in prayer, the nature of divine will, and the role of intercessory prayer. They also highlight the significance of personal connection with God and the impact of spiritual motherhood in praying for others' salvation, exemplified by Saints Therese of Liseux and Maria Goretti. Email List: www.veritascatholic.com Keywords St. Therese, prayer, spiritual theology, boldness, divine will, intercession, spirituality, faith, conversion, spiritual motherhood, St. Maria Goretti, St. Therese, saints, spirituality, love, charity, holiness, brokenness, freedom, Catholic Church  

In this conversation, Matt and Fr. Sam discuss the challenges and joys of parenting, particularly as Matt transitions from one child to two. They explore themes of trust in divine providence, the impact of moving on family dynamics, and the significance of having a place to call home. They also discuss the importance of prayer during transitions, the balance between comfort and challenge, and the role of community in parenting. Ultimately, they emphasize the power of hope and the beauty of simplicity in family life. LINKS Support Veritas: https://www.veritascatholic.com/donate   Other Shows: Let Me Be Frank: https://bridgeportdiocese.podbean.com/ The Frontline with Joe & Joe: https://thefrontlinewithjoeandjoe.podbean.com/ Restless Catholic Young Adults: https://restlesscatholicmedia.podbean.com/ Fr. Sam's Gospel reflections: https://dailycatholicreflection.podbean.com/ Keywords parenting, paternity leave, family dynamics, spirituality, prayer, home, transition, repentance, community, hope    

Jennifer Coffey Shevchuk sits down with Fr. Sam and Matt to discuss the impact that a holy pilgrimage can have. She offers her own testimony as someone who was deeply impacted on a pilgrimage, her expertise as a pilgrimage leader, as well as how she is incorporating her training as a Catholic Mentor into the new venture, Integration Pilgrimages. LEARN MORE Integration Pilgrimages: https://integrationpilgrimages.com/ Support Veritas: https://www.veritascatholic.com/donate