Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR, and Dcn. Bob Rice are friends who see humor and hope in a crazy world. Whether they are talking about sports, movies, politics, the Church, or their own lives, Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob try to find Christ in all things, even in the messiness of today’s culture. “They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31). Come be refreshed and renewed!
Episodes
6 hours ago
6 hours ago
There’s a new pope—and he’s an Augustinian!
In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first member of the Order of St. Augustine to lead the Catholic Church. They explore why St. Augustine’s Confessions remains a spiritual masterpiece and how his vision of community, conversion, and interior prayer speaks to the Church’s call for renewal today.
Naturally, they go off on many tangents, starting with a chilly trip to Cedar Point, detouring through spelling bee glory and NFL drama, and ending in Poland (via pilgrimage, not roller coaster). And yes, they say “Pope” a lot. Allegedly, it boosts downloads. (Spoiler: It works.)
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) T-Shirts, Field of Dreams, and the Pope Bump
The episode opens with an early Father’s Day gift: a nostalgic T-shirt featuring Field of Dreams. This sparks a discussion about podcast stats and the surprisingly real “Pope bump,” where there seems to be an uptick in listeners anytime the pope is mentioned in the title. For science, they test it live.
(03:45) Teacups, Tournaments, and the Cold Ride of Aging
Deacon Bob recounts a brisk grandkid-filled day at Cedar Point, while Father Dave recaps the equally chilly Memorial Golf Tournament in Dublin, Ohio. Along the way, they correct a Jack Nicklaus/Jack Nicholson mix-up and debate whether roller coasters or golf better reveal our age.
(10:28) Spelling Bees, Stage Fright, and Childhood Wins
The Scripps National Spelling Bee champ nails “éclaircissement,” then collapses with joy. That memory sparks their own stories: Father Dave’s catechism bee victory and Deacon Bob’s state theater auditions. They reflect on the pressure of performing, the resilience it builds, and how these moments shape us.
(16:11) Pope Leo XIV, St. Augustine, and Why Confessions Still Matters
The first Augustinian pope opens the door to rich reflections on St. Augustine’s enduring legacy. Father Dave and Deacon Bob spotlight Return to the Heart by Dr. Shane Owens, which unpacks the biblical themes in Confessions for today’s reader. Owens also recently joined Father Dave for an episode of Franciscan University Presents to discuss how Augustine’s life and writings continue to guide hearts back to Christ.
(21:05) Pentecost, Pilgrimages, and the Road Ahead
Pentecost kicks off a summer of spiritual encounters: Heather Khym leads the first Glory: A Women’s Gathering, Deacon Bob heads to the LifeTeen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention, and Father Dave departs for a pilgrimage to Poland to visit sites connected to St. John Paul II, St. Faustina, and St. Maximilian Kolbe. They share the joys of ministry on the move and the fresh hope the Holy Spirit always brings.
Resources Mentioned
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St. Augustine’s Confessions and Us with guest Dr. Shane Owens – Franciscan University Presents
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Confessions by St. Augustine
Wednesday May 28, 2025
Wednesday May 28, 2025
Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick off the episode with a rundown of the latest sports headlines, including the Pacers and Knicks battling in the NBA playoffs, and the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers making waves in the NHL. They also discuss the excitement surrounding the Indy 500, the Monaco Grand Prix, and the Coca-Cola 600.
Father Dave recounts his solo movie theater adventure to see Mission Impossible: Final Reckoning, complete with a funny seating mishap and his first-ever D-Box chair experience. They reflect on the perks (and occasional awkwardness) of going to the movies alone, and whether movie theaters are best for deep conversations or just a chance to unwind.
The conversation shifts to Father Dave’s recent solo Thai food experience—one of the best meals he’s ever had, which he may or may not have posted about on Instagram—and a reflection on how dining alone can be a quiet joy. They also pay tribute to the late George Wendt (Norm from Cheers)and share laughs about a show that captured the essence of community in the most unexpected places.
The hosts dive into the story of St. Teresa of Avila’s relics being publicly displayed, exploring the beauty, reverence, and quirkiness of Catholic traditions. They discuss how relics inspire faith, connect us to the saints, and remind us that the Church is both ancient and alive.
Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack why the Ascension is a crucial part of the Paschal Mystery, how it’s celebrated differently across dioceses, and why it’s much more than just a calendar quirk. They encourage listeners to see these Holy Days as not just “rules to follow” but as moments to pause, celebrate, and remember the story of salvation.
The episode wraps with reflections on Pentecost, Holy Days of Obligation, and staying grounded in faith—whether you’re at a playoff game, a movie theater, or wrangling kids at home. Father Dave offers a prayer for graduates, families, and the entire They That Hope community, with a reminder that hope is our anchor—on Thursdays, Sundays, or any day in between.
- Steubenville Conferences – SteubenvilleConferences.com
- Discipleship Quads – dquads.com
- Topps Pope Leo XIV Baseball Card
Wednesday May 21, 2025
Wednesday May 21, 2025
From debates over Pete Rose to steroid-era sluggers like Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa, the hosts unpack the evolving conversation around integrity in baseball and eligibility for Cooperstown.
Father Dave and Deacon Bob talk about Discipleship Quads—a free resource from Franciscan University that helps small groups grow in faith together. Recently refreshed with new materials and a Spanish-language version, this initiative is spreading globally and helping transform Catholic community life.
Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration Mass moved the world—and the hosts—with moments of humility and reverence. They reflect on his powerful statement of servanthood and the symbolism of receiving the Fisherman’s Ring, traditionally used to seal papal documents.
As the pope meets with global leaders, including U.S. officials, Deacon Bob and Father Dave explore the possibility of his first papal trip being to Ukraine. They also reflect on early reports of peace talks and the potential impact of a papal presence in times of global tension and reconciliation.
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Wednesday May 14, 2025
Habemus Papam! The Church has a new pope—and he’s from Chicago.
In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob react with joy, awe, and a healthy dose of disbelief to the election of Pope Leo XIV, a South Side Chicago native and fellow “Bob.” The first American pontiff, Leo XIV is an Augustinian, missionary, canon lawyer, and lifelong baseball fan with deep roots in both Villanova and Peru. His election is already making waves—and memes.
Before diving into Vatican news, the hosts process a different kind of drama: sports heartbreak. Bob relives the Cleveland Cavaliers’ playoff collapse—one for the record books—and the deep disappointment that followed. Father Dave offers perspective (and a hopeful prediction) before they shift gears to highlight Franciscan University's Commencement weekend. From Mary Rice Hasson’s bold defense of the human person to Bishop Andrew Cozzens’ catechetical preaching, the event was a joyful witness to faith and truth.
Finally, they unpack the significance of the name Leo, what this new pope may prioritize, and how the legacy of Pope Leo XIII—with his groundbreaking encyclicals on labor, justice, and the Holy Spirit—may resonate in the years ahead.
From Chicago sports to conclave suspense, from Catholic memes to Marian devotion, this episode is a fast-paced blend of humor, reverence, and hope for the Church’s future under a pope who, as Bob puts it, “plays Wordle with his brother and orders from Wawa.”
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
What does it feel like when the eyes of the world turn to the Sistine Chapel, as everyone waits for white smoke? In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob explore the sacred mystery—and human drama—of a papal conclave. But first: baseball, astronauts, Marvel movies, and pierogies.
Father Dave shares a powerful conversation with retired astronaut and U.S. Air Force General Kevin P. Chilton, who received the Eucharist in space. The hosts also discuss the lesser-known fact that Buzz Aldrin took communion on the moon, blending space exploration with sacred devotion.
Meanwhile, Deacon Bob reflects on being left out of both that interview and a May the 4th Star Wars-themed baseball game (yes, stormtroopers and all), and offers a spoiler-free review of Marvel’s new film Thunderbolts.
The hosts unpack the process of the papal conclave, exploring how the Holy Spirit leads (without micromanaging) the selection of a pope. They also respond to the controversial AI-generated image of Donald Trump dressed as pope—shared by official White House social media—and call for reverence during this pivotal moment in Church history.
As always, the episode blends solemnity with laughter—from memories of first Communions and unforgettable Masses to hot takes on sports, politics, and pilgrimage.
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“Buzz Aldrin Took Holy Communion on the Moon. NASA Kept it Quiet” by Erin Blakemore for History.com.
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
Wednesday Apr 30, 2025
The Chair of St. Peter is empty, the world is watching, and the Church is praying.
In this episode of They That Hope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob reflect on the death of Pope Francis and the moving events surrounding his funeral in Rome. From the emotional procession through the streets—past landmarks like the Colosseum and the TOR friars’ house—to the intimate ceremony at St. Mary Major, they recount moments that highlighted the late Holy Father’s love for the poor and his devotion to simplicity.
With the conclave just days away, the hosts also look ahead to what’s next for the Church. Will we see the first Italian pope in nearly 50 years? What does the increasingly global College of Cardinals mean for the future of the papacy? And what role does the Holy Spirit truly play in the selection of a pope?
Of course, it wouldn’t be They That Hope without a few tangents—this week includes Deacon Bob’s snowy NBA playoff experience in Cleveland (Cavalanche!), draft-day drama from the NFL, and the 20th anniversary of Revenge of the Sith (yes, Bob saw it in theaters—no, he didn’t wear a Jedi robe... but he wanted to).
They also reflect on the feast of St. Joseph the Worker and its bold stand against communist ideology, the forgotten value of learning for its own sake, and the cultural obsession with work and identity.
As the Church prays “Come, Holy Spirit” over the conclave, Father Dave and Deacon Bob invite listeners to join in hope—and in prayer for whoever the next successor of Peter will be.
Highlighted sections
(00:00) Cavalanche! NBA Playoffs and Draft Drama
Deacon Bob kicks things off with tales from a Cleveland Cavaliers playoff game—complete with fake snow and “Cavalanche” chants. The duo also dives into the NFL Draft: its surprising popularity, emotional player stories, and one disturbing prank call that made national news.
(17:37) Star Wars Nostalgia and the Return of the Sith
Deacon Bob celebrates Revenge of the Sith's 20th anniversary with a trip to the theater, reflecting on movie memories, lightsaber-worthy soundtracks, and how the prequels might’ve aged better than expected—at least compared to the sequels.
(22:03) Farewell, Holy Father: Remembering Pope Francis
Father Dave shares moving moments from Pope Francis’ funeral and procession through Rome—from the Popemobile carrying the casket past the Colosseum to the tender welcome from the poor outside St. Mary Major. The hosts reflect on the pope’s legacy of humility and love for the marginalized.
(25:32) What Comes Next: The Conclave and the Future of the Papacy
As the cardinals prepare to elect the next pope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss possible frontrunners, the global diversity of the College of Cardinals, and how the Holy Spirit works through discernment—not magic. And yes, there are betting odds.
(29:05) The Holiness of Work: St. Joseph and Vocation
In honor of the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker, the hosts explore the Church’s response to communist ideology, the dignity of labor, and the need to recover the joy of learning and working for its own sake.
(34:12) May the Fourth and Prayers for the Church
As Star Wars Day approaches, the hosts wrap with light-hearted banter and a heartfelt prayer for the conclave—entrusting the Church once more to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Resources Mentioned
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Wednesday Apr 23, 2025
Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob reflect on their Easter celebrations and awakening to the news of Pope Francis’ passing on April 21. They reflect on the pope’s humility, his heart for the marginalized, and his unshakeable love for Jesus as well as liturgical celebrations initiated by him and significant moments in his pontificate. They conclude by sharing Pope Francis' last Easter blessing.
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss Rory McIlroy's thrilling victory at the Masters and their failed attempt to attend a baseball game. They also reflect on the profound beauty of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil, encouraging everyone to participate fully. They also touch on Franciscan University alumni events, inspiring student stories, and the role of priests and deacons. They conclude with an invitation to support Franciscan University's Giving Day and Dcn. Bob's excitement about preaching at the upcoming “Night of Joy.”
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Join Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob on They That Hope as they celebrate Alex Ovechkin breaking Wayne Gretzky's goal-scoring record and discuss the thrilling conclusion of the college basketball season. They share humorous anecdotes about meeting famous people, the Haribo sugar-free gummy bear reviews, and the Minecraft movie. They also reflect on the beauty of Palm Sunday and explore how we can integrate faith in everyday life with insights from Arthur Brooks. Plus, don't miss out on their plans for a live podcast from a baseball game next week!
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss the start of the baseball season, March Madness, role-playing games, and Dcn. Bob’s son receiving a hockey puck from Sidney Crosby. Fr. Dave shares some beautiful things he experienced in Austria last week. They also delve into a profound discussion on Jesus' encounter with the woman caught in adultery, meditating on his merciful response.