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
Wednesday Jun 25, 2025
Wednesday Jun 25, 2025
There’s nothing like the NBA and NHL Finals… unless you count professional pillow fighting.
In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob celebrate the end of the sports season with a rundown of the Stanley Cup, the NBA Finals, and the rise of summer’s strangest athletic events, including the Pillow Fighting Championship (yes, it’s real).
But the heart of the episode is hope—the kind that doesn’t come from scores or summer plans, but from Christ. They reflect on the Eucharist, the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts, and the graces poured out at recent conferences at Franciscan and Notre Dame. From youth ministry to marriage milestones, they explore what it means to trust God with both our spiritual and everyday needs.
Naturally, they go off on tangents, from hotel bathrobes and awkward airline announcements to anniversary shoutouts and the idea of launching a Franciscan pillow-fighting team (tentative name: the Franciscan Feathers).
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Bathrobes, Notre Dame, and the $175 Upcharge
Deacon Bob checks in from the Morris Inn at the University of Notre Dame, complimentary robe included. He’s there for Notre Dame Vision, a youth program inviting high schoolers into deeper faith.
(03:30) Sports Wrap and the Rise of Pillow Fighting
From there, they pivot to sports: the Florida Panthers clinch the Stanley Cup, Oklahoma City Thunder top the Pacers in Game 7, and Canada’s Stanley Cup drought continues. And just when you think sports can’t get weirder—enter the Pillow Fighting Championship, now with corporate sponsorships and, apparently, rules.
(10:31) Augustine and Airport Public Shaming
Fr. Dave highlights a recent In Focus episode featuring Dr. Shane Owens, where they unpack the enduring relevance of St. Augustine’s Confessions in a world increasingly shaped by AI and secular culture. The conversation quickly pivots, though, as Deacon Bob shares a less lofty moment: a painfully awkward moment from his flight to South Bend, where a bathroom break turned into a public shaming over the intercom.
(19:29) Hope as Grace: Conferences and Franciscan Honeymoon
Father Dave shares stories from the Power and Purpose Conference, themed around hope. He reflects on hope as a grace—not just good vibes or optimism—and mentions a couple who spent their 50th wedding anniversary and a couple on their honeymoon at the same event.
(23:01) Corpus Christi and the God Who Satisfies
Jesus didn’t just meet spiritual needs. He fed the crowds too. Father Dave and Deacon Bob explore how our trust in God is often strong in the abstract, but wavers in daily stresses. They tie it back to Corpus Christi, Romans 5, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
(28:34) Sacred Hearts, Summer Kickoffs, and Marriage Milestones
Deacon Bob celebrates 28 years of marriage on the same day as the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. He also gives a shoutout to the kickoff of Franciscan’s high school youth conferences and the ongoing Priests, Deacons, and Seminarians Retreat.
(31:10) Praying for Peace in a Complicated World
The hosts close with a prayer for peace amid global tensions, especially in the Middle East and Ukraine. They close with a reflection on Pope Leo’s Angelus invitation to prayer and remind listeners that lasting peace only comes from the Heart of Christ.
Resources & Mentions
· Power and Purpose Conference – A weekend of renewal, prayer, and worship through Steubenville Conferences.
· Notre Dame Vision – A summer youth program helping teens hear God’s call.
· Romans 15:13 and Romans 5:5 – Scriptures that anchor this episode’s theme of hope
· Pope Leo XIV: Son of St. Augustine– Watch the latest In Focus episode with guest Dr. Shane Owens on Faith & Reason.
· Pillow Fighting Championship– Yes, it’s real. Yes, it has rules. Yes, you’re going to Google it.
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
What happens when you pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet in St. Faustina’s backyard?
This week, Father Dave shares powerful moments from his recent pilgrimage to Poland—visiting sacred sites tied to St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Faustina, and St. John Paul II. From celebrating Mass at Kolbe’s friary to walking through Auschwitz and Birkenau, it’s a glimpse of God’s mercy amid some of history’s darkest places.
While Father Dave walked in the footsteps of saints, Deacon Bob found hopeful witness in the desert. He returns from the Life Teen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention in Arizona, where he gave a talk on “Radiant Hope” and reconnected with longtime friends in ministry. Together, the hosts reflect on the quiet, often unseen ways God raises up saints in every generation—even in the most unexpected places.
And yes, this episode still includes classic They That Hope moments: breakfast with Father Dave’s brother Tom, a temporarily misplaced child on the New York subway, and a burning question: Why does the French Open have two names?
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Breakfast with Tom, Arizona Adventures, and Youth Ministry in the Desert
Deacon Bob recounts his recent trip to Arizona for the Life Teen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention where he reconnected with ministry leaders and gave a keynote on “Radiant Hope.” He also shares a surprise breakfast meet-up with Father Dave’s brother, Tom (a loyal listener), some humorous travel woes, and the joy of being surrounded by those serving the Church’s youth.
(04:08) Sports Recap: NBA, NHL, Tennis, and... Golf?
From unexpected NBA playoff upsets to a grueling five-set French Open final, Father Dave and Deacon Bob weigh in on recent sports headlines. They touch on the drama of playoff hockey, marvel at JJ Spaun’s 62-foot putt, and clear up (sort of) why the French Open is also called Roland-Garros.
(09:01) Audiobook Adventures
Deacon Bob announces that his book Sharing the Gospel with Our Lives is getting the audiobook treatment—and he’s narrating it himself. He shares the process (including a mysterious home studio in Columbus), while Father Dave recalls the heartbreak of being cut off with just 15 minutes left in a Navy SEAL memoir due to subscription limits.
(16:29) Pilgrimage to Poland: Kolbe, Faustina & Divine Mercy in Dark Places
Father Dave reflects on the deeply moving pilgrimage he led across Poland. Highlights include Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe’s friary visiting the birthplace of St. Faustina, and praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet in St. Faustina’s backyard with her niece. He shares how the lives of these saints—and the sobering visit to Auschwitz and Birkenau—revealed the light of God even in history’s darkest moments.
(23:02) Saints Amidst Suffering
As conflict rages in places like Gaza and Ukraine, the hosts reflect on how God raises up saints in every era. From the Missionaries of Charity caring for the vulnerable in war zones, to everyday youth ministers and celibate religious, they honor those whose quiet, faithful witness brings hope to the world.
(28:22) Radiant Hope in Service
Expanding on his convention talk, Deacon Bob shares how true Christian hope is made visible through acts of loving service. Drawing from Scripture and the Visitation of Mary, he explains how hope, though unseen, shines clearly in those who serve joyfully and sacrificially.
Resources Mentioned
· Sharing the Gospel with Our Lives: A Relational Approach to Catholic Youth Ministry by Deacon Bob Rice
· LifeTeen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention
· In Person with Bishop Cozzens on Faith&Reason
· Franciscan Catechetical Institute
· Divine Mercy Shrine in Kraków, Poland
· Niepokalanów, St. Maximilian Kolbe’s Friary
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
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
Pope Francis has passed into eternal life—and Father Dave and Deacon Bob take time to remember him with reverence, gratitude, and a few good stories.
In this episode, recorded shortly after the announcement of his death, the hosts reflect on the Holy Father’s legacy: his love for the marginalized, his embrace of simplicity, and his tireless call to joy. They recall his early days as a pope who rode the subway, paid his own hotel bill, and preached Christ with bold, missionary zeal. They also explore the complexities of his pontificate—from synodality and youth ministry to off-the-cuff comments and papal “mess-making.”
Before diving into papal memories, Father Dave and Deacon Bob share Easter highlights, including Good Friday homilies, a stunning Exsultet, packed liturgies at Franciscan University and Blessed Sacrament Parish, and many guests at Deacon Bob’s house. From there, they unpack the impact of Evangelii Gaudium, Christus Vivit, and the Jubilee Years, along with Francis’ unmistakable emphasis on mercy, mission, and the personal love of Jesus.
From Triduum grace to tears of gratitude, from liturgical reform to South American subway rides, this episode is a heartfelt farewell to a pope who reminded the Church that, in Christ, joy is always possible. Join us in praying for Pope Francis and the Church he loved.
Highlighted sections
(00:00) News of Pope Francis' Passing
Father Dave and Deacon Bob begin with the solemn announcement of Pope Francis' death, sharing their heartfelt reactions. They set aside their original agenda to honor his memory and reflect on his papacy.
(02:11) Easter Reflections and Good Friday Grace
Deacon Bob describes a spiritually rich Triduum, including his deeply moving Good Friday homily and moments of reverence during the veneration. Father Dave recalls the powerful liturgies at Franciscan University and a Holy Thursday story from Rwanda that shaped his preaching.
(11:06) Joy and the Pontificate of Pope Francis
The hosts reflect on joy as a hallmark of Pope Francis’ papacy—both in theme and in personal testimony. They recall how joy became a grace he received at the beginning of his pontificate, despite his naturally serious demeanor.
(16:47) A Pope Who Wasn’t Afraid to “Make a Mess”
Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss Francis’ willingness to ask hard questions, provoke dialogue, and advocate for the marginalized. They highlight his synods, pastoral approach, and commitment to listening, even when misunderstood.
(35:14) His Final Easter Message
The episode closes with Pope Francis’ final Urbi et Orbi blessing—a proclamation of hope, mercy, and resurrection. Father Dave and Deacon Bob pray for peace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the days to come.
Resources Mentioned
- Evangelii Gaudium – Apostolic exhortation on the joy of the Gospel
- Christus Vivit – Pope Francis’ letter to young people
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
Thursday Apr 17, 2025
This episode was supposed to be Live from PNC Park… Until wind, hail, and freezing temps benched those plans.
Instead, Father Dave and Deacon Bob recap what didn’t happen at the Pirates game—and what did happen at Petco Park, Jackie Robinson Day, and the Pierogi Race. They also cheer for Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters win, reminisce about $300 Air Jordans and train robbers, and share a touching moment from an alumni visit to California.
They close with rich reflections on the beauty of the Triduum—from foot washing and Good Friday sorrow to the light of the Easter Vigil.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Pirates Game Rained Out, Pasta Wins the Night
A freezing forecast and 40-mph winds cancel Father Dave and Deacon Bob’s plans for a live episode at PNC Park. Instead, they settle for Italian food, play-by-play reenactments, and philosophical questions like: why wouldn’t you go to Red Robin?
(03:01) Baseball, Scholarships, and One Grateful Mom
Father Dave reflects on a recent trip to California where he met inspiring future Franciscan students—including Abby, a St. Michael Scholarship recipient whose mother wept with joy. They tie it all back to Giving Day and the real, personal impact of donor support.
(07:06) Rory’s Redemption and Golf on the Tarmac
Rory McIlroy finally wins the Masters in a storybook finish. Father Dave watches it unfold from a stalled plane at O’Hare, while Deacon Bob gives golf an “ish” and vents about ESPN’s limited Masters coverage.
(13:33) NFL Faith, Stefanski’s Vocation, and the Baron Club Dinner
Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski visits campus and shares how faith shows up in the NFL, from pregame Mass to personal vocation. Father Dave previews an upcoming interview and reflects on ministry, family, and football.
(19:05) Holy Week Reflections: From Feet to Firelight
A powerful walk through the Easter Triduum—from the humility of Holy Thursday and the silence of Holy Saturday to the joy of the Easter Vigil. Deacon Bob celebrates the Exsultet, and Father Dave reminds us: don’t skip ahead—stay at the foot of the cross.
Resources Mentioned
- “Heaven Is for Real” – Movie based on a young boy’s near-death experience