"Neither do I condemn you." These powerful words from John 8 echo through this week’s episode, as Deacon Bob and Father Dave reflect on Jesus’ radical mercy and the call to transformation. The Gospel story of the woman caught in adultery takes center stage, prompting a rich conversation about sin, dignity, and the scandal of grace. 

From there, the hosts weave this message of mercy into stories from real life—on the field, in the classroom, and even around a D&D table. They celebrate Franciscan’s women’s softball team, relive a touching moment between Sidney Crosby and Deacon Bob’s son, and laugh their way through an unexpected defense of role-playing games (featuring dragons, dice, and Dr. Mike Welker). 

Even as the episode touches on travel tales, NHL milestones, and pretzel cravings in Austria, everything circles back to one central truth: God’s mercy restores what shame tries to erase. 

Highlighted Sections 

(00:00 ) March Madness, Hockey Moments, and The Hope of Opening Day 

Deacon Bob kicks things off with NCAA updates and his son's unforgettable moment with Sidney Crosby. Father Dave shares travel tales and hopes for the Nationals (and the White Sox?!). 

(06:32 ) Sportsmanship and Surprises in the NHL 

From Ovechkin’s selfless plays to honoring retiring legend Marc-André Fleury, the hosts reflect on the character of hockey players and how moments of class can transcend rivalries. 

(13:53 ) Franciscan Updates, Study Abroad, and Parents’ Weekend in Vienna 

Father Dave checks in from Austria, recounting a beautiful Night of Mercy in the Diocese of St. Pölten and sharing how Franciscan’s Austrian Program transforms lives—including a student who decided to transfer after just one semester abroad. 

(18:29 ) Dice, Dragons, and Deacon Bob’s Geekiest Joy 

Bob explains the world of role-playing games—from character sheets to 20-sided dice—and why he finds creativity and community in tabletop storytelling. Father Dave listens… with mixed emotions. 

(25:58 ) The Gospel of Mercy: Jesus and the Woman Caught in Adultery 

The hosts read and reflect on John 8, exploring how Jesus both confronts sin and restores dignity. They discuss the cultural and legal dynamics at play, the Pharisees’ trap, and the power of Christ’s compassion: “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin anymore.” 

Resources Mentioned 

• Gospel Reading: John 8:1–11 

• Franciscan University’s Study Abroad Program in Austria 

• Franciscan University’s Online MA in Theology Program 

• Fall 2026 Admissions Now Open: franciscan.edu 

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