Best Catholic Exchange Podcasts (2026)

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What Is the Trivium? A Philosophical Introduction to the Liberal Arts 49:51

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1h ago49:51

49:51

What do we really mean when we talk about the liberal arts? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we walk through the introduction to Sister Miriam Joseph’s _The Trivium_ and explore the classical understanding of education. Rather than focusing on methods or grade levels, we talk about what education *is* — how grammar, logic, and rhetoric functi…

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The Epiphany at Holy Mass - Sermon for January 4 (Novus Ordo) 13:51

11m ago13:51

13:51

Sermon for Sunday, January 4, 2026 - Feast of the Epiphany (Novus Ordo)By Fr. Brent Maher

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The Holy Name of Jesus - Sermon for January 4 (Latin Mass) 7:55

24m ago7:55

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Sermon from Sunday, January 4, 2026 - Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus (Latin Mass)By Fr. Brent Maher

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The Parable of the Rich Fool 10:17

4d ago10:17

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THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL. Jesus tells the story of a man who tore down his barns to build bigger ones, so that he could store all of his material wealth safely for years to come. But God demanded his life suddenly, that very night. And the lesson is, "Thus will it be for the one who stores up treasure for himself, but is not rich in what matter…

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Has Feminism Hurt Women? 53:15

4d ago53:15

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From the 19th Amendment to the #MeToo movement, the feminist movement has profoundly reshaped society. But have its good intentions backfired? Those arguing it hasn’t note that it’s allowed women the choice of living on their own terms. But critics argue that its culture glorifying full-time careerism and independence can make women feel inadequate…

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Mary, Joseph, and the Mass - Sermon for December 28 12:06

8d ago12:06

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Sermon for Sunday, December 28, 2025 - Feast of the Holy Family.By Fr. Brent Maher

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Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic? 53:55

11d ago53:55

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America is suffering from a loneliness epidemic. Some groups have suggested religious communities may be key to solving it. Could it help? Those arguing “yes” say it gives people regular social contact, support systems, and a sense of purpose that could combat isolation. Those arguing “no” say that secular options would provide better, broad-based …

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The Great Exchange - Sermon for Christmas Day 16:49

14d ago16:49

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Sermon for December 25.By Fr. Brent Maher

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Classical Et Cetera Christmas Book Exchange 34:56

13d ago34:56

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In this Christmas episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we trade our usual “What are you reading?” segment for a festive book exchange! The Core Four each brings a book to give, sparking conversation about classic stories, meaningful reading, and the traditions that shape the season. We recommend beloved Christmas books for children and adults, reflect …

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Holiday Virtues - Sermon for December 21 21:49

18d ago21:49

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Sermon for Sunday, December 21, 2025 - 4th Sunday of Advent.By Fr. Brent Maher

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The Little Way 10:35

16d ago10:35

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THE LITTLE WAY. Saint Thérèse of Lisieux showed us a way to God by performing day-to-day tasks and actions with great love. It is through a humble dependence on God — recognizing our "littleness" — that our love and trust expand into the Heart of Jesus. Join the conversation: [email protected]…

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How to Resolve Conflicts in Relationships: A Conversation with Esther Perel 53:15

18d ago53:15

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Couples have arguments over many topics. However, it’s through resolving conflict that both people in the relationship feel heard and seen. Psychotherapist, relationship expert, and New York Times-bestselling author Esther Perel says conflict when navigated skillfully can lead to growth, resilience, and a stronger bond. In this conversation with Jo…

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Is Memoria Press Catholic or Protestant? 44:21

20d ago44:21

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Is Memoria Press Catholic or Protestant—and what does “ecumenical” really mean in Christian education? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explain how _Mere Christianity_ guides our Christian Studies program and how we focus on the core beliefs shared by historic Christianity. We discuss the differences between "teaching" doctrine and "teac…

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Prophets Old and New - Sermon for December 14 21:06

24d ago21:06

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Prophets Old and New - Sermon for December 14 by Fr. Brent MaherBy Fr. Brent Maher

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Tech Titans or Tyrants: Should the U.S. Government Break Up Big Tech? 53:15

27d ago53:15

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Has Big Tech become too powerful? Amazon, Apple, Alphabet, Meta, and Microsoft shape how we shop, communicate, and consume information. But has their dominance gone too far? Advocates argue these firms are monopolies that harm competition, exploit consumer data, and wield disproportionate influence over public discourse. Structural reforms would re…

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What Is a House System? How Classical Education Builds Leadership & Culture 40:24

28d ago40:24

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What is a house system, and why do our classical schools use them? In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore how the house system works at Highlands Latin School—where it came from, what it accomplishes, and why students love it. From leadership and service to school culture and community, we look at how houses shape students in meaningfu…

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Scandalized by Jesus - Sermon for December 7 24:55

1M ago24:55

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Sermon for Sunday, December 7, 2025 - 2nd Sunday of Advent.By Fr. Brent Maher

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INSIDE THE DEBATE with John Donvan, Nayeema Raza, and Nick Gillespie 34:26

1M ago34:26

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What does it take to moderate a debate? How do we keep conversations civil when the world feels so polarized? In celebration of our launch on Substack, moderator-in-chief John Donvan joins Nayeema Raza and Reason’s Nick Gillespie for a lively conversation on the craft of moderation and the art of asking questions that reveal rather than inflame. Fe…

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Did Classical Education Cause the Enlightenment? | Classical Et Cetera Mailbag 38:49

1M ago38:49

38:49

We’re back with another Mailbag episode! Did classical education actually cause the Enlightenment? How does one become a classical educator? When is the best time to start logic at home? We’re also diving into co-ops, composition choices for younger students, art and music recommendations, and more! Whether you're homeschooling, teaching in a class…

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Wake Up - Homily for November 30 15:50

1M ago15:50

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Homily for Sunday, November 30, 2025 - 1st Sunday of Advent.By Fr. Brent Maher

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Does the Effective Altruism Movement Get Giving Right? 52:07

1M ago52:07

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Effective altruism is a philosophical and social movement that uses empirical data to maximize the impact of charitable efforts. Those who champion EA praise its methodological framework for maximizing the effectiveness of donations, thus ensuring equal consideration for all individuals. Those who challenge EA argue that its emphasis on measurable …

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Are Fairy Tales Closer to Scripture Than We Think? 47:41

1M ago47:41

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Fairy tales are far more than simple children’s stories. In this episode of _Classical Et Cetera_ we explore why these tales endure, what they offer the moral imagination, and how they help both children and adults see the world with clarity and wonder. From questions about when to begin reading fairy tales to the connections they share with Script…

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The Law of the Gift 9:07

1M ago9:07

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THE LAW OF THE GIFT. Vatican II proclaimed that the human person cannot fully find himself except through the sincere gift of himself. The Council referred to Jesus' teaching that "whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it." Pope St. John Paul II said, "In this way Jesus proclaims that life…

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Should the U.S. Militarize the War on Drugs? 53:15

2M ago53:15

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he Trump administration is taking the War on Drugs in a bold direction, using aircraft carriers, intelligence networks, and direct military strikes to target alleged smuggling vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. Supporters of militarization argue that previous strategies to stop cartels have failed, and only aggressive deterrence will sto…

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Essential Christian Novels for Classical Readers 41:53

2M ago41:53

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What are the best Christian novels to read? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera we share a new list of books we think are especially worthwhile for Christian readers. These stories that have stayed with us, shaped our thinking, and resonated with our Christian beliefs. Whether you’ve read through our original list or you're simply looking for yo…

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BONUS: Why Debate Matters — Robert Rosenkranz on Clearer Thinking 1:07:37

2M ago1:07:37

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We are pleased to share an episode from the Clearer Thinking Podcast featuring Open to Debate Founder Robert Rosenkranz in conversation with Spencer Greenberg. About this episode: What makes a forum truly open-minded rather than performative? When does listening change minds instead of just hardening identities? Are we teaching citizens to separate…

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Eat Your Own Food - Sermon from November 16 (Novus Ordo) 19:05

2M ago19:05

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Sermon for Sunday, November 16, 2025 - 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time / 23rd Sunday after Pentecost.By Fr. Brent Maher

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Generational Divides with Nick Gillespie 53:15

2M ago53:15

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How big is the divide between different age groups? In this inaugural episode of a new Open to Debate series, “Generational Divides,” Reason’s editor-at-large Nick Gillespie brings together a Baby Boomer, a Gen X-er, and a Gen Z-er to discuss Social Security benefits and how they’ll affect future generations, homeownership, and 1950s nostalgia, whe…

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The Nonprofit Exchange Interview with Terry Modica 28:03

2M ago28:03

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We are excited to share Terry Modica’s latest interview on The Nonprofit Exchange. Host Hugh Ballou spoke with Terry Modica, co-founder and executive leader of Good News Ministries, a global organization dedicated to digital content creation and mission-driven outreach. Terry shared her inspiring journey of how Good News Ministries was born out of …

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Should My Gifted Child Skip a Grade? 39:48

2M ago39:48

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Every parent wants to do what’s best for their child—especially when that child seems ahead of the curve. But in a classical education, growth isn’t about racing forward; it’s about steady formation and broad mastery. In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, the panel discusses when a gifted child should skip a grade and why every stage of learning …

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Why It's Important to Get Married in the Catholic Church 8:38

2M ago8:38

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WHY IT'S IMPORTANT TO GET MARRIED IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH. Many young Catholics today choose to be married in a special location, with the beauty of a mountaintop or the stunning sunset at the beach as a backdrop -- a destination wedding. But there are some good reasons to reconsider and reflect on this, and to intentionally decide to get married in…

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St. John Lateran and the Life of the Soul - Sermon for November 9 14:07

2M ago14:07

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Sermon for Sunday, November 9, 2025 - Dedication of St. John Lateran.By Fr. Brent Maher

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Is Europe Too Late to Compete in the Chip War? 53:15

2M ago53:15

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The U.S. and China are the two largest competitors in the race for semiconductors and in creating the most powerful AI chips. Europe could become a major stakeholder thanks to its demand for tech sovereignty and lithography near-monopoly, while others see the continent as too hampered by regulation, labor, and limited venture capital to get ahead. …

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Can Classical Conversations & Memoria Press Work Together? | Classical Et Cetera Mailbag 50:03

2M ago50:03

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This week on Classical Et Cetera. it’s another Mailbag episode! We’re answering all your homeschool and classical education questions. Should you teach with drawings, if you can’t draw? How do you start a book club that actually works? How does Berean Builders fit with Memoria Press science programs? Can Classical Conversations and Memoria Press wo…

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Purgatory and Preparing - Sermon for All Souls Day 24:34

2M ago24:34

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Sermon for Sunday, November 2 - All Souls DayBy Fr. Brent Maher

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Think Twice: The Seven Rules of Trust with Jimmy Wales 53:15

2M ago53:15

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At a time when misinformation thrives, institutions crumble, and algorithms mediate truth, trust has become one of democracy’s most fragile foundations. Our team at Open to Debate has been thinking twice recently about trust — how it’s earned, how it breaks, and how it might be rebuilt between one another in a time of deep division. Jimmy Wales, th…

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Classical Education in a Casual Age: Let’s Be Formal Again 56:43

2M ago56:43

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As classrooms grow more casual, is something important being lost? This week’s Classical Et Cetera tackles the question of formality in both schools and homeschools. We explore why order, decorum, and even dress still matter in a classical education. Along the way, a listener brings us a question about balancing extracurriculars with the homeschool…

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The Saints 11:06

2M ago11:06

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THE SAINTS. They are great role models, with much to show us and teach us. And we believe that they intercede for us. So let’s remind ourselves to reach out to them, and call on them for our needs, and embrace them sincerely in prayer. Join the conversation: [email protected] anewyorkcatholicconversation

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The Importance of Virtue 8:37

2M ago8:37

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THE IMPORTANCE OF VIRTUE. To grow in virtue is to improve as a human being - to become a better person today than I was yesterday. Virtue must be sought out and acquired intentionally. You become virtuous by continually striving for virtue. Join the conversation: [email protected] anewyorkcatholicconversation

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Should America End Birthright Citizenship? 53:15

2M ago53:15

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Birthright citizenship guarantees citizenship to anyone born within the United States’ territory, regardless of a parent’s nationality. But should this legal principle be removed from the Constitution? Those arguing it shouldn’t say that it prevents children from being punished for their parents’ status, while encouraging long-term economic and civ…

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A Scenic Route to the Liberal Arts (There's Lots Of Et Cetera) 49:01

3M ago49:01

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It takes us a while to get there, but it’s worth the journey! In this episode of Classical Et Cetera, Tanya, Martin, and Paul share what they’re reading, answer a listener question about audiobooks, and (eventually) get around to the main topic of the liberal art Here, they explore the liberal arts through the lens of Sister Miriam Joseph’s The Tri…

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Will the Future Be Abundant? 53:15

3M ago53:15

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Today, humanity is thriving, but there are fears the good times will not last. Will tomorrow be better than today? Those arguing “yes” say people have better access to resources and technological advances are making us more prosperous. Those arguing “no” say there are widening socio-economic disparities, our globalized world is bound to collapse, a…

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Why American Democracy Is Breaking—and How Classical Education Can Fix It 53:22

3M ago53:22

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What’s behind the decline of American democracy—and can education fix it? In this episode of Classical Et Cetera the team discusses why the health of our republic depends not necessarily on politicians, but on teachers, parents, and the formation of virtuous citizens. Modern society often treats the decline of democracy as a political problem, but …

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Better than Mule-Loads of Dirt - Sermon for October 12 (Novus Ordo Mass) 15:10

3M ago15:10

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Sermon for Sunday, October 12, 2025 - 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Novus Ordo Mass)By Fr. Brent Maher

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Heaven, But On Whose Terms? 8:16

3M ago8:16

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HEAVEN, BUT ON WHOSE TERMS? Jesus taught that entry into Heaven goes through a narrow gate, "and those who find it are few." But many people believe that all will be saved, and just being a good person will be enough. If we truly aspire to eternal life with God, we must prepare ourselves by embracing heavenly values — mercy, forgiveness, non-judgme…

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Is War Inevitable? 53:15

3M ago53:15

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From ancient battles to modern proxy wars, conflicts have been a constant in human history. But does that mean we are destined to continue treating it as an option? Those saying war is inevitable argue that our global system is anarchic and no overarching authority exists to stop war, so states prioritize survival and power. But others argue that c…

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Why Poetry Belongs in Classical Education Curriculum 42:03

3M ago42:03

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What does poetry offer that prose cannot? In this week’s Classical Et Cetera, we explore how verse builds literacy, memory, and a love of language. Discover how rhythm, structure, and beauty shape the mind and soul, and why poetry remains essential for both personal enrichment and classical education. *What We're Reading* from This Episode: Gerard …

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Our Dutiful Service - Homily for October 5 13:25

3M ago13:25

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Homily for Sunday, October 5, 2025 - 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time & External Solemnity of Our Lady of the Rosary.By Fr. Brent Maher

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Wartime Kill Switch: Human or AI? 53:36

3M ago53:36

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As modern warfare becomes increasingly automated and AI-reliant, questions arise about the use of a “kill switch” overriding autonomous weapons in conflict zones. Should the ultimate decision be in humans’ or AI’s hands? Those arguing for human oversight say moral reasoning, empathy, and legal accountability are essential, especially in wartime. Su…

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Patience 9:06

3M ago9:06

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PATIENCE. It’s called a Virtue, but it’s a tough one to develop. And yet, once acquired and nurtured, patience is a path to a more prayerful and peaceful life. Join the conversation: [email protected] anewyorkcatholicconversation