Best Fr Dave Dwyer Podcasts (2024)

1
How Many Times Do We Bless Ourselves During Mass? 11:12

1h ago11:12

11:12

Anna-Lissa from Texas calls in to ask Father Dave a question of faith: “There are two specific times in the Mass that we bless ourselves, and that is at the beginning of Mass and then at the end. And so I have heard that those are the only two times we’re to bless ourselves; that we're not to bless ourselves any other time during the Mass. Is that …

1
On Intinction: What Are the Rules Around Dipping the Consecrated Host into the Precious Blood? 11:21

2h ago11:21

11:21

On Intinction: What Are the Rules Around Dipping the Consecrated Host into the Precious Blood? A listener named Alan asks Father Dave if he did something wrong at Mass the other day when he ‘dunked’ the host into the wine. He says, “I don't know why I can't do it. . . I thought when I was getting communion in the 70s and 80s they had these things (…

1
A Conversation on Choosing Confirmation Names With Meg Hunter-Kilmer 21:42

2d ago21:42

21:42

It’s confirmation season, and perhaps you or someone you know are struggling with coming up with a confirmation saint name! So, we asked friend of the show, Catholic speaker and author Meg Hunter- Kilmer to help us out. Meg was an itinerant missionary for 12 years, currently works in campus ministry at the University of Notre Dame and has written s…

1
Fatherly Advice: Keeping the Faith Through a Loved One's Illness 13:04

15d ago13:04

13:04

A listener named Mark asks Father Dave, “How do you keep your faith when a parent’s health gets worse and looks to be permanent?”

1
Co-Creator of ‘Blue’s Clues’ and ‘Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood’ Offers Life Lessons for All Ages 20:30

31m ago20:30

20:30

Learning lasts beyond our days in school, and Father Dave welcomes Angela Santomero, creator of seven award-winning children’s educational shows, including “Blue’s Clues” and “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood.” They discuss her new book for adults is called “Life Clues: Unlocking the Lessons to an Exceptional Life.”…

1
Can an Adult With Intellectual Disabilities Receive the Eucharist? 13:11

4d ago13:11

13:11

A listener named Darby asks Father Dave if those with mental or intellectual disabilities are permitted to receive the Eucharist. She says, “I was told it's up to the priest to make that decision…I have also been told that [those with low cognitive ability could be denied] because of their non-understanding of the concept and importance.”…

1
Why Does The Eucharistic Prayer Say ‘Disciples’ Instead of ‘Apostles’ at the Last Supper? 13:48

6d ago13:48

13:48

A listener named Jim asks Father Dave about the Last Supper and the Eucharistic Prayer. Jim says, “In the Eucharistic prayer it says, ‘He took bread and gave thanks, broke it and gave it to his disciples.’ Why doesn’t it say apostles? I always envisioned the last supper the way Leonardo da Vinci painted it. Were there more disciples there than the …

1
Exploring Silence in Personal Prayer and the Mass With Fr. Boniface Hicks 23:15

11d ago23:15

23:15

As the world loudly clamors for our attention, Father Dave welcomes Father Boniface Hicks, OSB to discuss the role of silence in our faith. Father Boniface’s new book is called, “The Hidden Power of Silence in the Mass: A Guide for Encountering Christ in the Liturgy.”

1
Navigating Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Loss With Abigail Jorgenson 27:56

13d ago27:56

27:56

Editorial note: The following podcast contains a discussion of pregnancy/infant loss. We cling to our faith in times of joy and sorrow, and Father Dave welcomes Dr. Abigail Jorgenson to discuss her new book “A Catholic Guide to Miscarriage, Stillbirth, and Infant Loss: Compassionate Answers to Difficult Questions.” Abigail is an assistant professor…

1
If a Wedding Engagement Ends, What Do You Do With a Blessed Ring? 9:53

18d ago9:53

9:53

A listener named Christina asks Father Dave about a difficult situation regarding a blessed item. She asks, “What do you do with an engagement ring that's been blessed when the engagement ends?” Christina continues that her former fiance ended their relationship and will no longer speak to her. She says, “We had a priest bless us and the ring when …

1
Beauty in Brokenness: How a Severe Injury Played a Role in Sister Julia Walsh’s Vocation 18:21

20d ago18:21

18:21

There are many inspiring vocation stories, and Father Dave welcomes Sister Julia Walsh to discuss her unlikely path to becoming a nun as detailed in her new book, “For Love of the Broken Body: A Spiritual Memoir.” She is a Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration and hosts the “Messy Jesus Business” podcast and blog.…

1
Fatherly Advice: Can You Select a Godparent Who Is Divorced? 15:59

25d ago15:59

15:59

A listener named Laurie asks Father Dave a question of faith about baptism. She asks, “Can an individual who is a faithfully practicing Catholic be a godparent if they have recently become divorced due to their spouse cheating on them? This individual has not been in any other relationships and currently remains single since the divorce.” Laurie no…

1
Creative Ways To Celebrate 50 Days of Easter With Mari Pablo 22:59

27d ago22:59

22:59

Easter is more than just one day, and Father Dave welcomes back Catholic speaker Mari Pablo to share how she is celebrating all 50 days of Easter.

1
Consummatum Est: An Easter Vigil Homily From Father Dave 10:57

1M ago10:57

10:57

Holy Saturday at the Easter Vigil in the Holy Night of Easter. Father Dave focuses on two Latin words: “Consummatum Est,” which translate to Jesus’ last words, “It is finished.” Jesus has accomplished his work on Earth, but now our mission as children of God is just beginning. Preached at Cathedral of St. Andrew, Grand Rapids, MI on 03-30-24…

1
Suffering and Death 12:48

1M ago12:48

12:48

Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion. Father Dave notes how we shy away from suffering and death in our modern world. We venerate the cross because Jesus takes away the eternal suffering that we deserve. Preached at Cathedral of St. Andrew, Grand Rapids, MI on 03-29-24

1
Eucharist is Doing 13:55

1M ago13:55

13:55

Holy Thursday, Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper. Father Dave discusses the importance of meals, but also notes how John’s Gospel account focuses on Jesus washing the apostles’ feet. The Eucharist is nourishment but also an assignment for us to go and serve others. Preached at Cathedral of St. Andrew, Grand Rapids, MI on 03-28-24…

1
His Truth Will Set Us Free 6:42

1M ago6:42

6:42

Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent. Father Dave shares his pet peeve: when people use the word “truth” as an excuse to say unkind words. Jesus reminds us that he is the way, truth, and life, and the only thing that can set us free. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-20-24…

1
Lent is for Simple Things 5:20

1M ago5:20

5:20

Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent. Father Dave describes how solutions in our faith are often basic. God often appears in small ways, and we’re called to not overlook those experiences. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-04-24

1
Stop Changing the Subject 8:09

1M ago8:09

8:09

Third Sunday of Lent. Father Dave recounts a conversation with a friend that dug into life’s difficulties. In today’s Gospel, we are called to be our authentic selves with God and bring him our real problems. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 03-03-24

1
Saints for the School Year: Holy Men and Women to Accompany Teachers With Amy Cattapan 16:58

1M ago16:58

16:58

Many students and teachers are on spring break this time of year, and Father Dave welcomes middle school teacher and author Amy Cattapan to discuss her new book, “A Saint Squad for Teachers: 45 Heavenly Friends to Carry You through the School Year.”

1
Why Did the Latest Roman Missal Translation Change the Eucharistic Prayer From ‘All’ to ‘Many’? 14:19

1M ago14:19

14:19

The latest English translation of the Roman Missal was introduced in 2011, and one listener asks Father Dave about one particular change to the prayers at Mass. Derek takes issue with the latest translation and says, “What I dislike the most is the change of the words during the Consecration. In the old version, Jesus tells us ‘this is the blood of…

1
Music for Holy Week With Catholic Composer and Singer-Songwriter Francesca LaRosa 26:29

1M ago26:29

26:29

Father Dave welcomes back Catholic composer and singer-songwriter Francesca LaRosa to help prepare our hearts for Holy Week with a live music performance.

1
Why Does God Allow Suffering? Examining Faith and Hardship with Dr. Mark Giszczak 20:41

2M ago20:41

20:41

Lent is a fitting time to reflect on life’s struggles, and Father Dave welcomes Dr. Mark Giszczak to discuss his new book “Suffering: What Every Catholic Should Know.” Dr. Giszczak is a professor of Sacred Scripture at the Augustine Institute Graduate School of Theology.

1
Inside the Vatican: Former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See Mary Ann Glendon Reflects on Her Time With Three Popes 22:37

2M ago22:37

22:37

Father Dave welcomes former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See Mary Ann Glendon to discuss her new book, “In the Courts of Three Popes: An American Lawyer and Diplomat in the Last Absolute Monarchy of the West.”

1
Bringing Mother Cabrini’s Story to the Big Screen With Screenwriter Rod Barr 18:36

2M ago18:36

18:36

Friday, March 8 is International Women’s Day, as well as the release date of a new movie all about the Italian-American saint, Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini. The film “Cabrini” portrays the immigrant’s mission to secure housing and healthcare for New York City’s most vulnerable and stars Cristiana Dell'Anna, David Morse, and John Lithgow. Father Da…

1
Are the ‘Seven Deadly Sins’ Always Considered Mortal Sins? 20:07

2M ago20:07

20:07

A listener named Barbara asks Father Dave for clarification regarding the “seven deadly sins.” She says, “I have a question about the seven deadly sins and how they relate to mortal versus venial sins. I usually consider pridefulness, for example, a venial sin, in that I confess it but don't abstain from receiving Communion for this sin – otherwise…

1
How Star Wars and Spirituality Meet With Eric Clayton 18:32

3M ago18:32

18:32

Father Dave welcomes back speaker and author Eric Clayton to discuss his new book “My Life with the Jedi: The Spirituality of Star Wars.”

1
Less Spectacle, More Listening This Lent 9:27

3M ago9:27

9:27

Second Sunday of Lent. While preaching at a bilingual Mass in San Francisco, Father Dave reflects on Lent and the Transfiguration in today’s Gospel. We can hear God’s voice more clearly in this penitential season when we strip away life’s many distractions. Preached at Old St. Mary's Cathedral, San Francisco, CA on 02-25-24…

1
Ashes Like Me 8:46

3M ago8:46

8:46

Ash Wednesday. Father Dave describes a friend’s toddler at Mass who pointed to the ashes on peoples’ foreheads while saying, “like me!” He reminds us that we are all humbled by ashes and are called to be ambassadors for Christ this Lent. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 02-14-24…

1
Come In and Be Healed 14:51

3M ago14:51

14:51

Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses the theme of leprosy in today’s readings. As we end Ordinary Time, we are encouraged to reach out to those who feel shunned by society or the Church. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Los Angeles, CA on 02-11-24

1
Anyone Can Touch His Cloak 6:07

3M ago6:07

6:07

Memorial of Saint Agatha, Virgin and Martyr. Father Dave notes how we often compare ourselves to others and think some people are holier than we could ever be. Regardless of where we are in our faith journey, today’s readings remind us that Christ is present to all those who seek him. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 02…

1
Lifted Up and Made Whole 15:50

3M ago15:50

15:50

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave preaches about how many people relate to Job’s lament and struggles in today’s first reading. Despite our own brokenness, Christ can make us whole to help transform the world. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, NY on 02-04-24

1
Strengthening Your Body and Faith With the Founders of SoulCore 15:46

3M ago15:46

15:46

Some people focus on physical fitness during Lent, and Father Dave welcomes back Colleen Scariano and Deanne Miller, the founders of SoulCore, to discuss integrating soul and body in our Catholic faith. Soulcore began in 2012 as a Catholic fitness apostolate that combines the prayers of the Rosary with core strengthening, stretching, and other func…

1
Curious About Adoration? How a Holy Hour Can Boost Your Faith With Fr. Tim Anastos 18:50

3M ago18:50

18:50

If part of your Lenten promise is to spend more time with Jesus, you’ll enjoy Father Dave discussing Eucharistic Adoration with Father Tim Anastos! Father Tim is the assistant chaplain at the St. John Paul II Newman Center at the University of Illinois–Chicago and author of “Jesus, Make Me Fully Alive: 30 Holy Hour Reflections.”…

1
Guilt and Grief: Dealing With Feelings of Blame After a Loved One’s Death 12:26

4M ago12:26

12:26

A listener named Phillip asks Father Dave a question about guilt while grieving the death of a loved one. He says, “My grandpa Oscar passed away a couple months ago. I administered chest compressions, and it did not help. I feel guilty. He was 92, but I really tried to save his life. My question is, if it's God's will, why do I feel guilty?”…

1
Do I Still Need to Fast When Ash Wednesday Falls on Valentine’s Day? 19:41

4M ago19:41

19:41

As Lent approaches, a listener named James asks, “Ash Wednesday falls on the same day as Valentine's Day this year. How do I observe the fast while still celebrating the holiday? I'm not just talking about dinner out with my spouse, I'm a big fan of chocolate too. Can I just start my Lent a day later?”…

1
On Retreat With Pope Francis and Papal Biographer Austen Ivereigh 27:10

3M ago27:10

27:10

If you’re looking for personal retreat inspiration this Lent, you’ll be excited to hear journalist and papal biographer Austen Ivereigh discuss his new book, “First Belong to God: On Retreat with Pope Francis” with Father Dave. Austen is the author of two biographies of Pope Francis, and he and the pope co-wrote a book called, “Let Us Dream: The Pa…

1
Should We Pray For Our Own Desires or God’s Will? 13:04

3M ago13:04

13:04

A listener named Susan asks Father Dave a question about personal prayer. She wonders, “What’s better: praying for something specific, or praying for God’s will?”

1
Sow Generously Like St. Francis de Sales 5:51

4M ago5:51

5:51

Memorial of St. Francis de Sales. Father Dave reflects on how God desires our success and happiness. Our spiritual lives are not meant to be just for us, but rather we’re called to nurture seeds of faith and bear fruit for ourselves and others. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 01-24-24…

1
Obedience is Better 5:24

4M ago5:24

5:24

Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time. Father Dave discusses how we often think we know better than God. While he will always forgive us in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, being obedient is a better plan than sinning. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 01-15-24

1
Mediators of God's Call 15:36

3M ago15:36

15:36

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Father Dave asks us if we’ve ever had a phone call that has changed our lives. We are meant to be like Eli and Andrew in today’s readings, and help facilitate God’s call in someone’s life. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 01-14-24

1
Kicking Off Ordinary Time 5:59

4M ago5:59

5:59

Tuesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time. As we begin Ordinary Time, Father Dave notes how today’s readings highlight relatable people. Our spiritual lives are not meant to be compartmentalized, for God is found in the messiness of ordinary life. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 01-09-24…

1
Be Magi People 13:57

3M ago13:57

13:57

The Epiphany of the Lord. Father Dave looks to the Magi as inspiration as we start a new year. We are called to be changed by our experience of Church and leave spiritually different than we came. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 01-07-24

1
Pick One Virtue of the Holy Family 7:45

4M ago7:45

7:45

Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Father Dave emphasizes that family is not about being perfect, but about practicing virtues of the Christian life. Paul’s first reading lists qualities we should strive for, and Father Dave challenges us to focus on one this week. Preached while serving as Chaplain of a Cruise Ship on 12-31-23…

1
Christmas Light Dispels Darkness 6:15

4M ago6:15

6:15

Nativity of the Lord, Mass During the Night. While preaching Midnight Mass on a cruise, Father Dave underscores the images of darkness and light. He calls us to let God shed his light on any challenge or hurt we face in daily life. Preached while serving as Chaplain of a Cruise Ship on 12-24-23

1
Hoping Against the Odds 4:59

3M ago4:59

4:59

Monday of the Third Week of Advent. As we continue through Advent, Father Dave focuses on the hope of the Old Testament. As we wait for Christ to come again, we are challenged to hope for what often seems unattainable. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 12-18-23

1
Our Faith is Not a Passive One 5:25

4M ago5:25

5:25

Monday of the Second Week of Advent. Father Dave discusses how we actively need to pursue God and practice our faith. He calls us to think about someone who needs Christ, and how we can help make God manifest to others. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 12-11-23

1
A People We Ought to Be 10:39

4M ago10:39

10:39

Second Sunday of Advent. Father Dave talks about friends who recently welcomed a child, and their shift from waiting to preparing. As we anticipate Christmas, we prepare for all of the ways that Christ comes into our lives every day. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 12-10-23

1
An Advent Hike 6:43

4M ago6:43

6:43

Monday of the First Week of Advent. Father Dave relates Isaiah’s words in our First Reading to hiking. Advent and Christmas will be more spiritually rewarding for us if we put in the work to be closer to Jesus. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 12-04-23

1
Mold Me, Lord 7:27

4M ago7:27

7:27

First Sunday of Advent. Father Dave reflects on an image of God as the potter and us as the clay. We are called to let God smooth our rough edges and be like him, though he gives us the free will to say no. Preached at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City on 12-03-23

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