The Catholic Morning Show

Author and entrepreneur Peter Giersch joins the show to talk about his book Talking of Michelangelo: Death, Judgment, Heaven and Hell in the Burgundy Region . Drawing inspiration from both classic theology and modern culture, Giersch shares how a monastery retreat reshaped his understanding of sin, mercy, and eternity. Blending influences like The Catcher in the Rye and Mere Christianity, the book...

On this episode, Peter Giersch shares insights from his new book Talking of Michelangelo , blending humor, travel, and theology while reflecting on death, judgment, heaven, and hell. Later, Emily Jaminet discusses the upcoming national consecration of the United States to the Sacred Heart and offers practical steps for individuals and families to prepare. Learn more about Talking of Michelangelo :...

Why the Church is praying for priests in crisis The reality of priestly life today Changes in seminary formation The importance of human and spiritual development How laypeople can support priests Encouragement as a powerful form of support Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Brady Grimm.   LINKS You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram , and Youtube ! You ca...

What the AD Astra Youth Conference Event details: July 17–18 in Des Moines Who should attend and how to register The meaning behind “Ad Astra” Expansion of small group ministry into parishes The impact of mentorship and peer discipleship REGISTER HERE Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Brady Grimm.   LINKS You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram , and Youtu...

Introduction to the AD Astra Youth Conference Growth of youth discipleship through small groups Opportunities for high schoolers across the diocese Pope Leo XIV’s prayer intention for priests The realities and challenges of priestly life Seminary formation and human development Practical ways to support priests Credits: Produced, Edited, and Mixed by Ayden Pugh, Alexia Baker, and Brady Grimm. &nbs...

In a world of swipe fatigue and digital isolation, Bethany Kline introduces a new approach to connection through the 365 Catholic Singles Community. Offering nightly virtual gatherings centered on prayer and fellowship, the community helps Catholic singles rediscover authentic relationships rooted in faith. Bethany shares insights into the “loneliness paradox,” explaining why dating apps often fai...

A bold and faith-filled journey is coming to Des Moines. AJ Brown discusses his upcoming “Pilgrimage for the Unborn,” a 33-hour, 67-mile walk connecting Catholic parishes across the metro with prayer, sacrifice, and public witness. Beginning with Mass and a rosary, the pilgrimage will include stops at churches throughout the area, praying 20 rosaries along the way. Brian Gonzalez of Innervisions e...

Today on The Catholic Morning Show , we explore two inspiring ways Catholics are living out their faith through action, sacrifice, and community. First, AJ Brown shares his ambitious “Pilgrimage for the Unborn,” a 67-mile, 33-hour journey across the Des Moines metro, stopping at Catholic parishes to pray the rosary and raise awareness for the dignity of life. Joined by Brian Gonzalez of Innervisio...

Adriana Gonzalez shares the inspiration behind That They May Be One , a new film highlighting the call to unity among Christians. The film combines expert voices, historical reenactments, and powerful testimonies to show how the Holy Spirit continues to bring believers together. Adriana also shares her personal story and the role of ecumenism in her life, encouraging viewers to embrace Christ’s pr...

Mohammed Shami shares his remarkable conversion story, moving from a devout Muslim upbringing to becoming Catholic after a deep intellectual and spiritual search for truth. Through Scripture, study, and a profound encounter with Christ, Mohammed found the fullness of faith in the Catholic Church. His testimony highlights courage, sacrifice, and the overwhelming joy of receiving the sacraments at t...

Fr. Chris Reising shares a powerful reflection on the Gospel for Divine Mercy Sunday, focusing on Christ’s gift of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. He explains how God’s justice and mercy meet perfectly in the Cross, and encourages the faithful to take advantage of God’s mercy now through Confession. His message reminds us to not only receive mercy but to become ambassadors of mercy in our daily l...

Today’s Catholic Morning Show highlights the beauty of Divine Mercy, the power of conversion, and the call to Christian unity. Fr. Chris Reising offers a Gospel reflection for Divine Mercy Sunday, emphasizing the gift of Confession and God’s abundant mercy available to all who seek it. Mohammed Shami shares his incredible journey from a devout Muslim background to entering the Catholic Church at t...

Catholic apologist Gary Michuta joins the show to discuss his book Messiah: Old Testament Prophecies Fulfilled in Christ . He explores how the promises of the Old Testament find their fulfillment in Jesus, offering a deeper understanding of salvation history. Gary highlights the importance of knowing Scripture—especially the Old Testament—to fully grasp the richness of the Gospel. His insights rev...

Fr. Peregrine Fletcher discusses his role as illustrator for Saint Michael the Archangel Through the Ages , a beautifully detailed children’s book published by TAN Books. He explains how the book presents St. Michael’s role in Scripture, Church history, and the life of believers today. Through thoughtful artwork and storytelling, the book invites children and families to grow in devotion and under...

Deacon Randy Keel from Christ the King Parish offers a powerful reflection on Divine Mercy Sunday, highlighting the role of St. Peter as a model disciple. Through Peter’s strengths and struggles, we are reminded that faith is a journey shaped by both failure and grace. Deacon Keel emphasizes how the trials we face help refine our faith and lead us toward the ultimate goal: the salvation of souls....

Today’s episode of the Catholic Morning Show brings together Scripture, tradition, and evangelization in a powerful way. Deacon Randy Keel helps us prepare for Divine Mercy Sunday by reflecting on St. Peter’s witness and the role of trials in strengthening our faith. Fr. Peregrine Fletcher joins us to discuss his work illustrating Saint Michael the Archangel Through the Ages , a rich and engaging...

Weston Hayes, a parishioner at Saint John the Apostle in Norwalk, shares his powerful conversion story one year after entering the Church. Raised without a religious background, Weston describes how his journey through OCIA, his wife’s quiet witness, and unexpected moments of grace led him to embrace the Catholic faith. He highlights the importance of openness, community, and personal encounter in...

John Gaffney, Director of Evangelization and Mission for the Diocese of Des Moines, joins the show to discuss how parishes can become true spiritual homes. With a surge of new Catholics entering the Church this Easter, he highlights the importance of authenticity, personal connection, and recognizing Christ in one another. Gaffney emphasizes that evangelization starts with simple actions—learning...

On today’s episode of The Catholic Morning Show , we explore how to build vibrant parish communities rooted in authentic relationships and encounter with Christ. John Gaffney, Director of Evangelization and Mission for the Diocese of Des Moines, discusses practical ways to foster meaningful connections and welcome new members into parish life. Later, Weston Hayes shares his journey into the Cathol...

Why aren’t more Catholics going to confession—and what might bring them back? Hans Plate , founder of Vinea Research, discusses a first-of-its-kind national study on confession and what it reveals about the spiritual lives of Catholics today. 💡 In this interview, you’ll discover: The real reasons Catholics avoid confession Why many haven’t rejected the sacrament—but drifted away The surprising pe...

Are you still celebrating Easter—or did it end last Sunday? Laura Kelly Fanucci , author of Living Easter: 50 Days to Practice Resurrection , shares how Catholics can fully embrace the Easter season and grow in lasting, Christ-centered joy. 💡 In this interview, you’ll learn: Why Easter lasts 50 days—and why that matters The difference between happiness and true Christian joy How to “practice” joy...

Easter isn’t just a day—it’s a season. Are you living it? On today’s episode of The Catholic Morning Show , we explore how to fully enter into the joy of Easter and what new research reveals about Catholic life today: 🔹 Laura Kelly Fanucci discusses her new book Living Easter: 50 Days to Practice Resurrection and how to cultivate joy as a daily spiritual practice. 🔹 Hans Plate shares key finding...

What happens after Mass ends—does your peace last? Connie Hill , Catholic convert and content creator, shares a deeply personal and practical look at spiritual warfare and the daily fight for holiness. 💡 In this interview, you’ll discover: What spiritual “strongholds” are and how they form Why peace often disappears after leaving Mass—and how to keep it How prayer and fasting lead to real spiritu...

What makes the Eucharist so central to the Catholic faith? In this powerful Holy Week conversation, Steve Ray —Catholic convert, author, and Holy Land guide—dives into the biblical roots and profound meaning of the Eucharist. 💡 In this interview, you’ll learn: Why the Eucharist challenged Steve most as a Protestant How Old Testament “types” point to the Mass Why the sacrifice of the Cross and the...

Holy Week is here—are you ready for Easter? On today’s episode of The Catholic Morning Show , we dive deep into the heart of the Catholic faith with two powerful conversations: 🔹 Steve Ray explores the Eucharist as the fulfillment of the Old Testament and the ultimate sacrifice made present today. 🔹 Connie Hill shares her journey from ancestral worship to Catholicism and offers practical insight...