Catholic Conversations

In this episode, we sit down with Gina Kulak and Buddy O’Malley to talk about the vibrant Respect Life groups in our Catholic schools. From prayerful witness to creative projects and student-led initiatives, these groups are forming young leaders who are passionate about upholding the dignity of human life. Our guests share what first inspired them to be part of this ministry, how students take ow...

As we enter into Respect Life Month, we sit down with Lisa Hall and Lucienne Henneberry to discuss Project Rachel, the Church’s ministry of post-abortion healing. Rooted in mercy and reconciliation, Project Rachel offers both spiritual and professional support to help women move from pain and alienation to peace and renewed faith. Lisa and Lucienne share how this ministry walks with those carrying...

In this episode of Catholic Conversations, we talk with A.J. LaPoint, Director of FrancisCorps, and Friar Nader Ata, OFM Conv., Chaplain, about the mission and impact of this unique young adult volunteer program. Rooted in the spirit of St. Francis and St. Clare, FrancisCorps invites young adults to live in intentional community, serve those in need, and grow in faith through spiritual formation....

From the home to the parish, catechesis is the foundation of how our faith is passed on. In this episode, Andrea Slaven unpacks the meaning of catechesis, the importance of Catechetical Sunday, and how families and catechists are rising to today’s challenges with creativity and hope.

What does it mean to be a synodal Church? In this episode, Sister Katie Eiffe joins us to reflect on the Synod process in our diocese and beyond. She shares what we’ve learned through parish listening sessions, how those voices connect to the wider Church, and what the next steps look like as we move from listening to action in our local pastoral planning.

In this special Back to School episode of Catholic Conversations , we sit down with Rick Hensel, Principal of Notre Dame Jr./Sr. High School, to talk about the excitement of a new school year and the unique mission of Catholic education. Rick shares what sets Catholic schools apart, the values and traditions that define the Notre Dame community, and how Catholic education helps prepare students to...

In this week’s episode, Sheila Austin joins us to share the powerful mission of Road to Emmaus Ministry of Syracuse, Inc, a volunteer-led outreach serving the poor and homeless in Syracuse. Through stories of compassion, dignity, and encounter, Sheila reveals how Chris is present on the streets of Syracuse, and how the road to Emmaus is closer than we think. Learn more about Emmaus Ministry and th...

This week, Fr. Gerry Waterman, Catholic Chaplain at Syracuse University, shares the heart of campus ministry — what it means to walk with college students in their faith journey, and how the chapel and new Catholic center are creating sacred space in the midst of campus life. Discover how faith is flourishing in unexpected places and how you can support this vital mission. Check them out on Instag...

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Kevin Reimer, author of Second-Hand Saints, an inspiring collection of real-life stories that highlight the quiet heroism and deep faith of everyday Christians. Kevin shares what led to gathering these moving testimonies of suffering, grace, and transformation, and how these stories can help shape our own faith journey. Grab a copy of the book today on Amazo...

In this special episode, Bishop Lucia reflects on his six years as shepherd of the Diocese of Syracuse. He shares the moments that have been most meaningful, the joys and challenges of episcopal ministry, how the Holy Spirit has guided him through difficult times, and how his role has deepened his understanding of being a pastor in today’s Church. Looking ahead, he also offers his hopes for the fu...

What does it look like to share your faith with confidence in everyday life? In this episode, we’re joined by Elizabeth Garn and Allison Bracht, facilitators of the Genesis Mission—a seven-week experiential journey that equips Catholics with the tools to accompany others, listen deeply, and share the Gospel with trust in the Holy Spirit. Discover how this relational approach to evangelization is t...

In this week's episode, Emily Long and Danielle Landers join us to share the story of Frassati Fellowship, a vibrant young adult group in the Diocese of Syracuse inspired by the life of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati. Discover how this community of 18 to 39-year-olds is building authentic Catholic friendships through weekly gatherings, prayer, service, and shared adventures. Whether you're...

This week, Josie and Noah, two teens who attended Franciscan LEAD and the Steubenville Youth Conference, share how a week away from distractions (and their phones) helped them grow closer to Christ and one another. Inspired by this year's theme, "Consumed", they reflect on how God showed up in powerful ways, what it was like to disconnect from social media, and how they're workin...

In this episode, we’re joined by Tami Scott, editor of The Catholic Sun and the quarterly magazine SOLIS , for an inside look at the ministry of Catholic journalism. Tami shares what makes The Catholic Sun unique, what readers can expect to find in each issue, and the vision behind launching SOLIS . She also reflects on the joys and challenges of editing faith-based publications and highlights the...

In this episode of Catholic Conversations , Joe Gill shares his experience serving as a missionary with Totus Tuus, a dynamic summer program for youth rooted in faith, fun, and authentic Catholic witness. Joe reflects on what drew him to the program, what he loved about working with children and teens, and the moments where he saw young people encounter Christ in meaningful ways. He also offers in...

In this episode, Father Chris Ballard joins us to share the story behind the Spirit of Hope Catholic Community. Father Chris reflects on the vision that inspired the transition, the practical steps their leadership took to build unity, and how the parish communities responded. He speaks honestly about what they have learned, the joys and surprises that emerged along the way, and offers thoughtful...

In this special belated Father’s Day episode, Father Dennis Walker, and his dad, Mark Walker, join us for a heartfelt conversation about family, faith, and vocation. They share what it was like to walk the path to priesthood together, how their relationship has grown since ordination, and the meaningful moments they’ve experienced along the way. It’s a touching reminder of the vital role family pl...

What’s it like growing into young adulthood and a career in the Catholic Church—and doing both in the midst of today’s pop culture? In this episode, Kateri Lickona joins us to talk about navigating young adulthood while working for the Church, and how her faith continues to evolve in a media-saturated world. She shares what feels authentic, what falls flat, and why these matter to young Catholics...

In this special episode of Catholic Conversations, we sit down with Deacon John Brusa III and Deacon Joseph Ryan as they prepare for their upcoming ordination to the priesthood! They share personal stories from their journey of discernment, the joys and challenges of seminary formation, and what they're most looking forward to as they step into priestly ministry. Join us for an inspiring conve...

In this week's episode, we sit down with local funeral director Ryan Smith to explore how his Catholic faith shapes his vocation. Ryan shares what led him to this unique profession, how he sees his work as a ministry, and the deep meaning behind the Catholic Funeral Mass. We also discuss the Church's teaching on cremation and offer helpful advice for families planning a funeral that honors...

What happens when a couple of high school students decide to put their faith into action? In this episode, we're joined by Thomas and James—seniors at Seton Catholic Central Jr./Sr. High School and leaders of the God Squad. They share how the group got started, how one of our seminarians helped spark something big, and what it's like to lead a faith-based movement at school. From planning...

This week, we welcome back Gabby Pattwell. In this heartfelt episode, Gabby shares her experience as a young Catholic mom navigating the beautiful (and sometimes messy) journey of motherhood. As a mother to a one-year-old and expecting another baby this fall, she shares how her faith has shaped her experience of parenting, from sleepless nights to sacred moments. We talk about the vocation of moth...

In this week's episode, we sit down with Gwyn Gleason, a faithful Catholic and dedicated ICU nurse whose career began at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. She shares powerful stories from the frontlines—of exhaustion, hope, resilience, and the quiet moments where her Catholic faith carried her through. Gwyn reflects on her vocation, what it means to care for both body and soul, and how the...

In this week's episode, we are joined by Meg Castellini, Interim Director of the Spiritual Renewal Center in Syracuse, for a thoughtful conversation on the power of retreat. Meg shares how stepping away from everyday distractions to spend intentional time in prayer and reflection and open us to God's presence in new and surprising ways. Meg also speaks about the importance of creating sacr...

This week, we are joined by Father Joseph Clemente for a powerful reflection on the message and devotion of Divine Mercy. Together, we explore the origins of this devotion through the life and writings of St. Faustina, the significance of Divine Mercy Sunday, and how Catholics today can embrace this message of trust, forgiveness, and hope.