Catholic Conversations

What does it mean to spend a summer living “on mission”? This week, we welcome Jacob Cottet, a former Totus Tuus missionary and current seminarian, and Abril Montes de Oca, a returning Totus Tuus missionary. Together, they share what makes Totus Tuus so much more than a summer camp, how prayer and community sustain missionaries throughout the summer, and the moments when they witnessed God work in...

As he celebrates 50 years of priesthood, Msgr. Neal Quartier joins us to reflect on a lifetime of ministry, the people who have shaped his vocation, and the lessons he has learned along the way. From cherished memories of his first years in ministry to words of encouragement for those discerning God's call today, this conversation is a heartfelt look at a life faithfully lived in service to Ch...

What does religious freedom really mean, and why does it matter for Catholics today? This week, James Salamy joins the podcast as we explore the significance of Religious Freedom Week and reflect on the courageous witness of Saints Thomas More, John Fisher, Peter, and Paul. Join us as we discuss how Catholics are called to live and share their faith with confidence, charity, and joy, remaining fai...

For the first time ever, the Annual HOPE Appeal surpassed $5.1 million in support of the ministries, programs, and parishes of the Diocese of Syracuse. In this episode, Beth Hoey joins us to reflect on this historic milestone, explain how parish sharing benefits local communities, and offer a sneak peek at the theme for the 2026 HOPE Appeal. Discover how your generosity helps bring hope to life ac...

What if the solution to homelessness started with something as simple, and as powerful, and a place to call home? In this episode of Catholic Conversations, we sit down with Andrew Lunetta, founder and Executive Director of A Tiny Home for Good, to discuss how the organization is addressing homelessness through affordable housing, community, and human dignity. Andrew shares the story behind A Tiny...

One year after their ordination to the priesthood, Father Joe Ryan and Father John Brusa return to Catholic Conversations to reflect on their first year of ministry. Join us as they share the joys, challenges, lessons, and graces they have experienced while serving God’s people, celebrating the sacraments, and living out their vocation as priests of the Diocese of Syracuse.

As ordination day approaches, Deacon Cornelius Deep reflects on his journey to the priesthood; from “playing Mass” as a child to recognizing and responding to God’s call. He shares key moments of affirmation, the people who shaped his vocation, and the experiences from formation that he will carry into ministry. As this special day nears, he also opens up about what’s on his heart and the joy he f...

Dine Cima and Christine Loadwick from Birthright of Onondaga County join us to share how their ministry offers hope, compassion, and practical support to pregnant women and families in our community. In this conversation, they discuss what makes Birthright unique, the importance of accompaniment and community support, and how simple acts of love can make a lasting impact in someone’s life. To lear...

Nick Leonard and Brooke Yerian join us to share their journey through the OCIA process and how walking toward the Catholic faith together transformed both their relationship and their lives. From searching for deeper meaning to entering the Church at the Easter Vigil, and even a proposal on the morning of the Vigil itself, their story is a powerful witness to God’s grace, love, and invitation. Whe...

What happens when the wounds we carry aren’t ones we chose? In this episode, Erin Miller and Kyle Stapleton join us to explore the Life-Giving Wounds Retreat through the personal experiences of those who have attended. From what to expect over the course of the weekend to the moments that leave a lasting impact, this conversation offers an honest look at healing, faith, and taking that first step,...

What does it look like to say “yes” to the call to serve as a deacon today? In this episode, we’re joined by Tom Andino and Dc. Tim Stedman as we take a closer look at the renewed formation program for the permanent diaconate; why these changes were made and how they are already shaping those in formation. We reflect on the early fruits of this new approach and the long-term vision for strengtheni...

In this episode, we’re joined by Joanne Brusa and Karen Hoole to talk about the Mothers of Lu and the powerful role of family in fostering vocations. Together, we reflect on what it means to support a son’s “yes” to God and how all of us can help create a culture where vocations can grow. We also share ways our diocesan community can come together in prayer and encouragement. As we prepare for the...

In recognition of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, we’re joined by Safe Environment facilitators Jackie Adams and Julie Netzband for an important conversation about protecting the most vulnerable in our communities. Jackie shares her experience volunteering for this work in our Diocese since 2004, while Julie offers insight from her time working in Child Advocacy Centers and the vital role t...

Join us as we sit down with Joelle Milea of the Samaritan Center to learn more about their mission to serve those in need in our community. Rooted in compassion and dignity, the Samaritan Center provides essential support to individuals and families facing food insecurity and hardship. We also highlight their upcoming Good Samaritan Event, an opportunity to come together in support of this vital m...

This week, Bishop Lucia reflects on the meaning and importance of the Triduum, the powerful traditions of Holy Thursday, and how full participation in these sacred days can renew both our personal faith and the life of our parish communities. As we journey from the Upper Room to the empty tomb, we are reminded that the Cross is not the end of the story; Resurrection hope awaits.

Kevin Frank from the Brady Faith Center joins us this week to share how their ministry walks alongside individuals and families in the community, meeting people where they are and offering support for the whole person; body, mind, and spirit. We also take a closer look at Brady Farm, as they celebrate 10 years of ministry providing fresh food, education, and meaningful work to nourish the wider co...

This week, Father Chris Celentano joins us to reflect on the lives of the saints, as we prepare to celebrate the feasts of St. Patrick and St. Joseph. While their stories are extraordinary, the saints themselves were ordinary people who trusted God in their daily lives. In our conversation, we explore how the saints can be companions on our own journey of faith, offering inspiration, encouragement...

In this week’s episode, Sister Katie Eiffe, CSJ, Director of Synodal Planning, join us to talk about the next phase of the Synod and what it means for the Diocese of Syracuse. We talk about parish listening sessions and how each of us can take part in shaping the future of our local Church.

Father Dennis Walker and Father Brendan Foley join us as they step into their new roles as Director and Associate Director of the Office of Vocation Promotion. Having personally benefited from the support of vocation ministry, they share why continuing this work felt like the natural next “yes” to God’s call. During our conversation, they reflect on what it means to create a culture of vocations i...

Dating back centuries, the tradition of visiting churches on Holy Thursday invites the faithful to keep vigil with Jesus during His final hours. In this episode, we’re joined by Emily Long to explore the spiritual roots of the 7 Churches Visitation and how it can become a powerful, prayerful pilgrimage across our diocese. Emily shares how she’s organized this tradition as a retreat-style experienc...

Lent is a season many of us recognize, but do we fully understand what makes it different? In this episode, Josh Corcoran and Tom Andino join us to explore Lent through a liturgical lens, unpacking how the Church’s prayer, music, Scripture, and rituals change during these weeks of preparation. Together, we reflect on how Lent invites us into deeper conversion and helps prepare our hearts for the j...

This week we are joined by Mike Pastrana, a sophomore at Le Moyne College in Syracuse, member of their men’s baseball team, and an active participant in their Koinonia Companions (KC) men’s group which is offered through Campus Ministry. Mike shares what it’s like to live out his faith as a student-athlete, the importance of faith-filled community during the college years, and his recent experienc...

In this episode of Catholic Conversations, we sit down with Joe and Abby Gill, a newly married couple, to talk about the vocation of marriage and the early days of married life. They share their experience of marriage preparation, what it’s like navigating life together as a young Catholic couple, and how their shared faith and relationship with Jesus form the foundation of their marriage. A timel...

In celebration of Catholic Schools Week, we’re joined by Sherri Stone, Principal of Most Holy Rosary Elementary School, and Addie, the school’s Student Council President, for a conversation about what makes their school more than just a place of learning. Together, they reflect on bringing two school communities together, the importance of faith and leadership in school life, and how students expe...

This week, we welcome back Kristin Barrett-Anderson from the St. Marianne Cope Museum & Shrine to discuss the upcoming publication Sunshine, and Shadow, a collection of never-before-published journals from Saint Marianne Cope and Sister Leopoldina Burns. Spanning their years of ministry in Hawaiʻi, these writings offer a rare and personal glimpse into faith, perseverance, and shared mission. K...