Open Wide the Doors

In this episode, we explore the meaning of freedom from a Catholic perspective with a member of the Knights of Columbus. We discuss how faith, patriotism, and service intertwine to embody true freedom and how the Knights promote these values in their community and beyond. Learn more about the Knights of Columbus

In this episode, we explore the deeper meaning of stewardship in the church, focusing on gratitude, discipleship, and community impact. With Archdiocesan Parish Vitality Specialist, we discuss how we can implement stewardship in our parishes, communities, and in our every day lives.

In this episode, we explore the significance of Eucharistic processions, their history, and how they deepen our faith and community connection. One of the organizers of our annual Corpus Christi Eucharistic Procession talks to us about the spiritual meaning, the impact and the planning that goes into these beautiful events. Learn more about Eucharistic Miracles HERE

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors Podcast, we explore how social media can be a powerful tool for faith and evangelization. With Bishop Leibold School's Marketing Director, we discuss how by creating authentic content and using social media intentionally we can truly impact others with God's love.

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors Podcast, we explore the importance of welcoming in our parish community. With our parish family Director of Involvement and Engagement we discuss how we can foster a culture of true belonging and active hospitality. If you are interested in getting involved with our Welcome Team, email rprindle@stjohnpaulii.org

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, with return guest, Father Chris, we delve into the complex topic of forgiveness. Forgiving others can be a challenging thing. It is important to acknowledge the pain and realize the difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. Father Chris highlights the inspiring story of Saint Maria Goretti, which shows the power of forgiveness and its ri...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, along with one of our parish deacons, we explore the significance of living a spirit-filled life beyond the moment of Pentecost. We discuss the symbols of the Holy Spirit, the origins of Pentecost, and how the Spirit works in everyday life. We discuss and emphasize the importance of prayer, community, and recognizing the gifts of the Spirit in mi...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, our Bishop Leibold School Principal helps us explore the concept of daily discipleship within the context of Catholic education. We discuss how discipleship is not just about significant events but is lived out in everyday moments, particularly in a school setting. We highlight the importance of prayer, service, and community involvement in nurtu...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, with our Director of Faith Formation, we discuss the importance of praying with scripture and the transformative power that comes with engaging with God's word. We explore the difference between reading scripture and praying with it, and talk more in depth about Lectio Divina. Praying with scripture can be challenging, but Chris offers some pract...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, we learn about the Blessings in a Bag Ministry from someone who has been with this ministry from the start. We discuss the history of Blessings in a Bag as well as a core princible of Catholic Social Teaching, the preferential option for the poor. In this conversation we emphasize the importance of seeing Christ in those in need, the joy of servi...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, with the Our Lady of Good Hope music director, we discuss the important and profound role Music has in Mass. Singing is an integral part of worship, it can enhance participation and prayer. We also discuss how music changes with the liturgical seasons and its significance during each season. Music is not an add on to Mass it is meant to enhance p...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, we discuss the complexities of Catholic parenting in 2026. With one of the members of our parish family Mom's Group, we explore some of the challenges posed by modern technology, talk about the importance of community support, and the need for parents to model faith in their homes. As parents, we to turn towards God in prayer and trust in His par...

In this episode of the Open Wide The Doors podcast, we discuss the joy of Divine Mercy, emphasizing that true Christian joy is rooted in encountering a merciful God. Our Associate Director of Youth and Family Formation helps us to explore the significance of Divine Mercy Sunday, the role of confession in experiencing God's mercy, and practical ways to cultivate joy through gratitude and community.

Christ is risen! Alleluia! In this episode, Featuring our Director of Worship, we discuss the significance of the Easter season, emphasizing that Easter is not just a single day but a transformative season that shapes our lives. There is a lot of pain and suffering in this world, but we are called to live joyfully through our trials, knowing that Christ has already won our battles and is calling u...

This week is Holy Week! Featuring Father Fox, we delve into the significance of Holy Week and the Sacred Triduum, emphasizing the importance of these liturgical celebrations in our Catholic faith. We discuss how the Triduum is not merely a series of separate events but a continuous act of worship that invites participants to engage deeply with the mysteries of Christ's passion, death, and resurrec...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, we discusses the preparation for sacraments, particularly First Communion and Confirmation, with our Parish Family Sacrament Preparation Event Planner. We explore the importance of these sacraments in the lives of children and the community, the role of parents in the preparation process, and the various events and programs designed to support th...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors Podcast, we feature Intervention Specialist and Bishop Leibold Mom, Megan Apple. We explore the intersection of faith and special needs, and emphasize the importance of inclusion, dignity, and community support within the Catholic Church. Megan shares her experiences as a parent and intervention specialist, highlighting the need for sensory-friendly worsh...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors Podcast, we explore the significance of the Sacrament of Confession and the role of the priest in this Sacrament. Father Chris helps us to understand the connection between confession and purgatory, the mechanics of the sacrament, and the healing power of God's mercy. Father Chris also shares some insights on what confession is like on the priest's side o...

In this episode we discuss the importance of almsgiving during Lent, focusing on food insecurity in the Dayton area. Our Director of Care, Jennifer Zwiers helps us to explore various programs in our parish family aimed at feeding the hungry and also addresses common misconceptions about who experiences food insecurity. Serving others as well as acts of kindness can deepen one's faith and community...

In this episode along with Father Howard, we explore the significance of fasting especially during Lent. We discuss the historical context of fasting within the church, it's biblical roots and the purpose of this spiritual practice. Fasting is important in helping us to foster humility, charity, and a deeper relationship with God in our lives.

Ash Wednesday is Today! Due to technical difficulties this episode was not able to be released until a few days after it was intended to be released. Today we discuss how Lent isn't just about giving up chocolate or making some small sacrifice for 40 days. This episode features a return guest from last week, Deb Wright, and we discuss Lent being more about growing closer to the Lord in whatever wa...

In this episode with guests, John and Deb Wright, we discuss how the Catholic church teaches marriage as a Sacrament and not a temporary commitment until challenges arise. We discuss the many fruits marriage can bear including that of bearing and raising children. Three to Get Married, by Archbishop Fulton Sheen The Fourth Cup: Unveiling the Mystery of the Last Supper and the Cross, by Scott Hahn...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, we explore the deeper meanings and components of the Mass. One of our parish Deacons, Deacon Bill discusses the importance of active participation, the structure of the Mass, and how each part contributes to the overall experience of encountering Christ. He shares insights on the Liturgy of the Word and the Eucharist, the significance of altar se...

In this episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, with the president of the PTO at Bishop Leibold School, we discusses the significance of Catholic Schools Week and the concept of the Domestic Church. We explore how families can live out their faith at home, the importance of community engagement, and the various traditions and activities that make Catholic Schools Week special. Visit Bishop Lei...

In this next episode of the Open Wide the Doors podcast, we discusses the importance of discovering one's role within the parish community. Featuring our Director of Involvement and Engagement we discuss how we can use our personal gifts and interests to help our parish and our community. There are many apostolates and ministries within our parish family. If you are interested in taking that first...