This episode was supposed to be Live from PNC Park… Until wind, hail, and freezing temps benched those plans.  

Instead, Father Dave and Deacon Bob recap what didn’t happen at the Pirates game—and what did happen at Petco Park, Jackie Robinson Day, and the Pierogi Race. They also cheer for Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters win, reminisce about $300 Air Jordans and train robbers, and share a touching moment from an alumni visit to California.  

They close with rich reflections on the beauty of the Triduum—from foot washing and Good Friday sorrow to the light of the Easter Vigil. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00 ) Pirates Game Rained Out, Pasta Wins the Night 

A freezing forecast and 40-mph winds cancel Father Dave and Deacon Bob’s plans for a live episode at PNC Park. Instead, they settle for Italian food, play-by-play reenactments, and philosophical questions like: why wouldn’t you go to Red Robin? 

(03:01 ) Baseball, Scholarships, and One Grateful Mom 

Father Dave reflects on a recent trip to California where he met inspiring future Franciscan students—including Abby, a St. Michael Scholarship recipient whose mother wept with joy. They tie it all back to Giving Day and the real, personal impact of donor support. 

(07:06 ) Rory’s Redemption and Golf on the Tarmac 

Rory McIlroy finally wins the Masters in a storybook finish. Father Dave watches it unfold from a stalled plane at O’Hare, while Deacon Bob gives golf an “ish” and vents about ESPN’s limited Masters coverage. 

(13:33 ) NFL Faith, Stefanski’s Vocation, and the Baron Club Dinner 

Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski visits campus and shares how faith shows up in the NFL, from pregame Mass to personal vocation. Father Dave previews an upcoming interview and reflects on ministry, family, and football. 

(19:05 ) Holy Week Reflections: From Feet to Firelight 

A powerful walk through the Easter Triduum—from the humility of Holy Thursday and the silence of Holy Saturday to the joy of the Easter Vigil. Deacon Bob celebrates the Exsultet, and Father Dave reminds us: don’t skip ahead—stay at the foot of the cross. 

Resources Mentioned 

• Franciscan University Giving Day – April 23, 2025 

• St. Michael Scholarship – Supporting first-generation college students at Franciscan 

• Baron Club Dinner – Annual fundraiser celebrating Baron Athletics 

• Exsultet (Easter Proclamation) – Chanted during the Easter Vigil 

• The Triduum – USCCB resource on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil 

• Seven Churches Visitation – Holy Thursday pilgrimage tradition 

• “Heaven Is for Real” – Movie based on a young boy’s near-death experience

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.