God's Playbook

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico celebrates the feast of St. Nicholas—the real “Santa Claus” whose life of generosity and love for children and the poor still inspires us today. He shares how St. Nicholas’ compassion challenges us to rethink our own giving during the Christmas season and to care for those most in need. This episode invites listeners to embrace a spir...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico reflects on Isaiah’s powerful prophecy of the Root of Jesse—a promise of hope, peace, and a Messiah who stands firm even in the harshest conditions. He unpacks the rich imagery of harmony, justice, and courage that Isaiah offers, reminding listeners that Jesus is our steady foundation in uncertain times. As Advent continues, this epis...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico breaks down what Holy Days of Obligation are and why they matter in the life of the Church. He explains why different countries have different required feast days and how these celebrations help us keep our focus on God throughout the year. Listeners are encouraged to see these days not just as obligations, but as invitations to praye...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico celebrates the feast of St. Francis Xavier, one of the Church’s greatest missionaries and a co-founder of the Jesuits. He shares the incredible story of St. Francis’s passion for spreading the Gospel across Asia and how his bold witness continues to inspire Catholics today. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own call to share t...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico breaks down the real meaning behind all the sitting, standing, kneeling, and genuflecting we do at Mass—what he jokingly calls “Catholic aerobics.” He explains why these postures matter, how they help us show reverence, and what they say about our relationship with God. It’s a fun, practical look at the “body language” of our faith, a...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico breaks down what a novena really is—a nine-day prayer tradition that asks God for special graces and helps us stay rooted in faith. He shares where novenas began, why they matter, and highlights some of the Church’s most popular ones, from St. Thérèse to St. Joseph to the powerful Surrender Novena. It’s a simple, meaningful way to bui...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico reflects on the First Sunday of Advent and its reminder that this season is all about hope and being present to the gift of today. He walks listeners through the readings—from Isaiah’s call to go up the mountain of the Lord to St. Paul’s invitation to “put on the armour of light”—and reminds us that Emmanuel, God-with-us, is here righ...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico breaks down what Advent is really all about as the Church enters a brand-new liturgical year. He talks about Advent as a season of hope, waiting, and preparing our hearts—not just for Christmas, but for Christ’s return. From the Advent wreath to the call to prayer and renewal, he invites listeners to slow down, refocus, and welcome th...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico dives into the beauty and power of Psalm 139 — a stunning reminder that God knows each of us intimately and loves us deeply. He reflects on how this psalm reveals a God who formed us, walks with us, and never leaves our side, no matter where life takes us. It’s an episode that invites listeners to gratitude, humility, and a renewed se...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico reflects on Jesus’ powerful prayer from John 17, where Christ speaks to the Father about unity, glory, and eternal life. He unpacks how this moment reveals the deep love within the Trinity—and how Jesus includes each of us in that prayer. We are invited to reflect on Christian unity and to deepen our own relationship with God through...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico continues the week on prayer and thanksgiving by sharing a powerful “God’s Will Prayer” written by St. John Paul II. He reflects on how this prayer helps us open our hearts to God’s plan, find real peace, and gain the courage to follow His will—especially when life feels confusing or uncertain. Listeners are invited to slow down, pray...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode of God’s Playbook, Fr. Rico celebrates the feast of St. Catherine of Alexandria—one of his favourite saints and the patron of his home diocese. He shares her incredible story as a young, brilliant Christian who bravely defended her faith, inspired conversions, and gave her life for Christ with unwavering courage. Fr. Rico also reflects on his visit to her relics...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Fr. Rico discusses honestly and gently a topic we all face sooner or later: the death of a loved one. He breaks down why Catholic funerals matter—not just for the person who has passed, but for the family and community who gather to grieve, remember, and pray. With clarity and compassion, he guides listeners through what the Church offers during those difficult...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Fr. Rico wraps up the series on the five senses by diving into the gift of hearing—yes, even those moments of selective hearing! He explores how hearing and truly listening shape our relationships, our prayer, and the way we respond to God in everyday life. From music and laughter to the voice of someone we love, this episode reminds listeners how sound can cal...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Fr. Rico reflects on the gift of sight and how it shapes the way we experience God, others, and the world around us. From the beauty of creation to the moments when we struggle to “see” clearly, he reminds listeners that sight is both a physical sense and a spiritual one. This episode invites everyone to look at life a little differently—through the eyes of gra...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Revisiting: The Gift of Senses — Smell, Fr. Rico dives into how scents shape our memories, moods, and everyday experiences. From the smell of fresh bread to the perfumes or flowers that remind us of home, he reflects on how God uses even simple scents to get our attention. It’s a laid-back reminder to slow down, breathe deep, and appreciate smell as one of God’...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Revisiting: The Gift of Senses — Touch, Fr. Rico reflects on how touch shapes our humanity and deepens our relationships, especially after the long stretch of distancing during the pandemic. He explores the many ways touch brings comfort, connection, and meaning—from a hug in grief to a simple handshake or high-five. With his voice still recovering, he invites...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Revisiting: The Gift of Senses — Taste , Fr. Rico dives into the joy of flavours and the simple pleasure of really tasting the food we love. As his voice continues to recover, he reflects on how taste turns an ordinary meal into an experience—one that brings gratitude, connection, and a deeper appreciation for God’s gifts. From fresh summer fruit to a perfectly...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Revisiting: The Gift of Senses — Speech, Fr. Rico reflects on the simple yet powerful gift of having a voice—especially on a day when his own is barely hanging on. He invites listeners to think about how often we take speech for granted and how essential it is for expressing joy, needs, frustrations, and praise. Through a light, personal story and a look back a...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Psalm 138, Fr. Rico unpacks a beautiful prayer of gratitude, trust, and God’s unwavering love. As the psalmist praises God for answered prayers, strength of soul, and divine protection, listeners are invited to reflect on how God’s steadfast love shows up in their own lives. With its reminder that God lifts up the lowly and walks with us through every trouble,...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Psalm 130, Fr. Rico reflects on one of Scripture’s most comforting prayers—a cry from the depths that reminds us God always listens. With its powerful message of mercy, hope, and God’s unfailing love, this psalm becomes a mid-week boost for anyone feeling weighed down or in need of reassurance. Join the conversation as Fr. Rico unpacks how God hears our cries,...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Lest We Forget, Fr. Rico reflects on the meaning of Remembrance Day—a time to honour those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. With gratitude and reverence, he reminds listeners that true bravery and love are rooted in Christ’s own sacrifice for humanity. As we remember the fallen and pray for peace, today's episode calls us to live with compassion...

Send us Fan Mail  In today’s episode, Respecting God’s House – John 2:13-25 , Fr. Rico dives into the story of Jesus cleansing the temple—a moment often misunderstood as simple anger. He explains that Jesus wasn’t losing his temper, but rather standing up for the holiness of God’s house. This episode challenges listeners to reflect on how we treat sacred spaces and reminds us that church isn’t jus...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Fr. Rico breaks down the meaning behind the priest’s signature outfit. He explains how the black clothing serves as a symbol of penance, humility, and focus on heaven, while the white collar represents the call to holiness. Beyond symbolism, it’s also a practical “uniform” that helps priests be ready to serve wherever they go. Tune in as Fr. Rico reminds us tha...

Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Why Women Can’t Be Priests, Fr. Rico explores one of the most frequently asked — and often misunderstood — questions about the Catholic Church. He unpacks why Jesus chose men to serve as priests, how this tradition continues today, and why it doesn’t make men more important than women. With honesty and heart, Fr. Rico highlights the equal dignity and unique rol...