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 Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
As Lent begins, Deacon Bob and Father Dave turn to the Gospel of Luke and the image of Jesus being led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit. From fasting and temptation to spiritual dryness and surrender, the hosts reflect on how the desert becomes a sacred space of encounter and transformation.
This week’s episode moves from the spiritual to the political, as Father Dave shares his experience at the Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., and the launch of Franciscan’s Homeland Mission Program. Then, shifting gears, the episode dives into the controversial press conference between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, with reflections on humility, diplomacy, justice, and how Catholics can engage a divided political world without losing heart.
Sprinkled in—as always—are the laughs: a breakdown of the NFL’s “tush push,” Cavaliers comebacks, the rise of phone booth boxing, and a surprising story about wrestling in a former church.
As Lent invites us deeper into prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, this episode ends with a moving reflection on the Gospel and a reminder that even in our own deserts, the Spirit leads and God is present.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Fasting, Cheeseburgers, and the Age of Exemption
Father Dave reflects humorously on turning 60 and technically being exempt from fasting—though he still chooses to fast as a spiritual discipline. Deacon Bob playfully insists that doing what you don’t have to do is what makes it truly holy.
(01:57) NFL Tush Push, Cavaliers Comebacks, and Sports Surprises
The hosts dive into the NFL's controversial "tush push" play and debate whether it should be banned. They also celebrate the Cleveland Cavaliers’ incredible comeback wins and share thoughts on how grit and teamwork shape great sports moments.
(04:44) Phone Booth Boxing and Wrestling in Church?
From Romania’s newest combat sport to a church-turned-MMA arena, the episode takes an absurd but entertaining detour. The discussion sparks deeper questions about sacred spaces and cultural trends that blur the lines between worship and spectacle.
(06:10) Evangelization on the Road: Faith-Filled Uber Rides
Bob and Father Dave share stories of surprising spiritual conversations with Uber drivers that opened doors to talk about faith, suffering, and the Trinity. These everyday moments reveal how simple encounters can become grace-filled opportunities for evangelization.
(08:10) Franciscan in D.C.: Homeland Mission and Catholic Prayer Breakfast
Father Dave describes the launch of Franciscan’s Homeland Mission Program, aimed at giving students faith-integrated experiences in public service. He also recounts the beauty and depth of the Catholic Prayer Breakfast, including his encounter with JD Vance and a moving moment of public prayer.
(11:29) Zelensky, Trump, and a Press Conference That Shook D.C.
In one of the most talked-about political moments of the week, the hosts break down the tense exchange between Zelensky, Trump, and JD Vance. The conversation opens up complex questions about justice, diplomacy, war, and how Catholics can engage with humility and integrity.
(28:42) Into the Desert: Jesus’ Temptation and Our Lenten Journey
Drawing from Luke 4, the hosts reflect on Jesus’ hunger, vulnerability, and spiritual strength in the desert. They invite listeners to embrace Lent not as a burden, but as an opportunity to be led by the Spirit into a place of deeper encounter with God.
Resources Mentioned
- Gospel Reading: Luke 4:1–13
- Catholic Prayer Breakfast (Washington, D.C.)
Don't miss the engaging discussions brought to you by faithandreason.com and osvpodcasts.com. Catch more episodes at theythathopepodcast.com.
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
This week’s episode swings from dodgeball chaos at Franciscan University to international hockey heartbreak as Team USA falls to Canada. Father Dave and Deacon Bob also unpack the Yankees’ shocking decision to allow facial hair—and ponder whether robot umpires and AI-controlled baseball are the future of America’s pastime. Oh, and Juan Soto buys a teammate a $92,000 SUV for a jersey number. All-star moves, indeed.
In entertainment news, the hosts react to Amazon’s takeover of the James Bond franchise, reminisce about their favorite 007s (yes, George Lazenby gets a mention), and reflect on the trend of turning beloved characters into corporate IP machines. Spoiler: they’re not thrilled.
The heart of the episode is a deep, compassionate look at in vitro fertilization following President Trump’s executive order expanding IVF access. Father Dave and Deacon Bob thoughtfully explain the Church’s teaching on human dignity, the moral challenges of embryo preservation, and the pain of infertility—all while offering hope, prayer, and clarity for couples carrying this difficult cross.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Dodgeball, Hockey, and the Return of Beards
Father Dave reports from Franciscan’s wild dodgeball tournament, while Deacon Bob relives Team USA’s loss to Canada—with Canadian friends in the room. Plus, big news: the Yankees are finally allowing beards, and Catholic Beard Balm gets a shout-out.
(06:21) Robots at Bat: Baseball’s High-Tech Future
From AI strike zones to robot pitchers, the hosts debate the future of America’s pastime—and whether baseball is losing its human touch. Spoiler: Bob wants an all-robot league.
(07:37) All-Star Salaries and Jersey Numbers
Juan Soto drops $92,000 on a teammate’s car to snag jersey #22. The hosts share stories of sportsmanship, ego, and what happens when your number has a price tag.
(11:39) Bond, Amazon Bond
With Amazon now owning James Bond, the hosts question the future of the franchise. They rank their favorite Bonds, lament over-franchising, and long for storytelling that isn’t driven by corporate profit.
(17:42) IVF, Life, and the Church’s Teaching
In response to Trump’s IVF executive order, Fr. Dave and Deacon Bob offer a compassionate, clear look at Catholic teaching on fertility, frozen embryos, and the dignity of human life.
(29:33) Lent, Loopholes, and Signs of Hope
Ash Wednesday is coming! The hosts clarify fasting rules (yes, there’s an age loophole), pray for Pope Francis, and highlight hopeful moves toward child protection in the digital world.
Resources Mentioned
- Catholic Beard Balm – Beard care with a sacred scent (yes, it smells like chrism!)
- USCCB Statement on IVF – Church teaching on the moral concerns of in vitro fertilization
- Decision Points by George W. Bush – Memoir reflecting on presidential decisions, including policies around embryonic research
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
It’s an All-Star weekend—from the NHL to the NBA to the 50th Anniversary of Saturday Night Live—and Father Dave and Deacon Bob are here for all of it.
In this episode, they dive into the revamped All-Star formats (including USA vs. Canada on ice), heated hockey fights, and the quirky charm of watching sports evolve. They also unpack the latest SNL celebration, share some Marvel movie hot takes, and reflect on deep questions raised by the Holy Father’s Ordo Amoris—a framework of love that recently became part of American political debate.
Father Dave offers updates from his recent travels, including a powerful retreat experience and upcoming mission to Rwanda with Immaculée Ilibagiza. The hosts also share some signs of hope from Franciscan University’s student life and spiritual formation, including an outpouring of the Holy Spirit and young catechists preparing for service in the Church.
From slapshots to spiritual fire, from comedy legends to calls to mercy, this episode moves with heart, humor, and hope.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) NHL vs. NBA: All-Star Weekend Shakeups
Father Dave and Deacon Bob break down recent changes to the All-Star games. From NHL’s "Four Nations" brawls to the NBA’s round-robin format, they debate whether these events still matter—and how sports could rethink the concept of “All-Star.”
(10:35) Austria, SNL, and Comedy Legends
A look at the 2025 Austria Summer Experience is followed by reflections on Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary. The hosts remember comedy legends, share favorite skits, and explore how SNL evolved from Bill Murray to YouTube stardom.
(16:34) Marvel Movies, Rwanda, and Blackfish
Deacon Bob reviews Captain America: Brave New World, while Father Dave shares his experience watching Hidden Figures, Hotel Rwanda, and Blackfish—all tied to his upcoming pilgrimage to Rwanda with Immaculée Ilibagiza.
(25:03) Ordo Amoris: Love, Politics, and Pope Francis
After J.D. Vance references Ordo Amoris online, the hosts unpack Pope Francis' actual teaching on ordered love, immigration, and human dignity. They push back on politicized theology and highlight a powerful quote from the Holy Father.
(33:01) Signs of Hope on Campus
The Life in the Spirit Seminar gathers over 200 students to pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Meanwhile, catechetics majors show their passion for parish ministry at Immersion Day—proof that the future of the Church is bright.
Resources Mentioned
- Austria Summer Experience – Franciscan University
- Hidden Figures (Film about Black women at NASA)
- Hotel Rwanda (Genocide and forgiveness, starring Don Cheadle)
- Blackfish (Documentary on SeaWorld and orcas)
- Pope Francis’ Letter to Bishops on Ordo Amoris
- Captain America: Brave New World (Marvel Studios)
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
This week on They That Hope, Deacon Bob Rice and Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, tackle the rising tide of anxiety affecting young people—and all of us! From Super Bowl surprises to shocking NBA trades, it’s a whirlwind of headlines, but the heart of this conversation is deeper: Why are so many teens (and adults) overwhelmed, and what can we do about it?
Drawing from Dr. Greg Bottaro’s new “In Focus” series, alongside insights from The Anxious Generation and Bad Therapy, the hosts explore how overprotection in the real world and chaos online have created a generation experiencing heightened anxiety. They also reflect on parenting, prayer, digital safety, and the role of faith in fostering real peace and resilience.
Meanwhile, Father Dave celebrates his 60th birthday (officially “elderly”), Deacon Bob returns from a retreat in Arizona and a week in Texas, and together they close with a hopeful call for Christian unity in a fractured world.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Father Dave Is Officially Old (and Kind of Okay With It)
The guys reunite after a missed week, and Deacon Bob wastes no time celebrating Father Dave’s 60th birthday. From Googling “what is old?” to surprise parties and retreat moments, the milestone gets a heartfelt and hilarious treatment.
(01:36) Super Bowl Blowout and the Lost Art of the Commercial
The Eagles crush the Chiefs in a game full of fireworks—literally. Deacon Bob vents about the lopsided score, Father Dave praises the Clydesdale commercial, and both give nods to halftime outfits that were refreshingly modest.
(07:02) Luka to the Lakers?! Shockwaves in the NBA
In a trade that stunned fans and players alike, Luka Dončić heads to L.A. while Anthony Davis lands in Dallas. The guys unpack how the NBA's power dynamic is shifting, and celebrate the Cavs' rise with three All-Stars on deck.
(10:20) Faith, Anxiety, and Catholic Mindfulness
Father Dave previews the “In Focus” series with Dr. Greg Bottaro, diving into the rise in youth anxiety. Deacon Bob brings in themes from The Anxious Generation and Bad Therapy, reflecting on parenting, digital dangers, and why we need both grace and grit.
(19:55) Safer Internet Day, Pornography, and Protecting Kids Online
From age verification laws to the “Wait Until 8th” campaign, Deacon Bob shares practical ideas for creating safer digital environments—and why this battle has to be fought together, in schools, homes, and communities.
(26:55) Utopia, TX and the Beauty of Christian Unity
Deacon Bob recounts a week with Young Life leaders in Texas, reflecting on the joy of shared mission between Catholics and Protestants. Father Dave underscores the Church’s call to unity without compromise—celebrating common ground without denying the real differences.
(33:11) One Easter for All? A Humble Hope for the Future
They discuss the rare year when all Christians celebrate Easter on the same day—and the Vatican’s long-standing willingness to unify Easter calendars as a sign of communion. Spoiler: Pope Francis isn’t the first to suggest it.
(36:18) Signs of Hope: Lifelong Ministry and Lifelong Friends
Deacon Bob shares the joy of meeting youth ministers with decades of service. Father Dave reflects on 35 years of friendship and the grace of walking together in faith. It’s a fitting close to an episode that starts with age—and ends with legacy.
Resources Mentioned
- In Focus with Dr. Greg Bottaro
- The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
- Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Football frustration, birthday celebrations, and a million-dollar baseball card?
This week, Deacon Bob Rice and Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, bounce between sports, sacraments, science, and serious social issues—starting with the Super Bowl matchup they didn’t want but expected: Chiefs vs. Eagles.
Along the way, they dig into the nuances of wearing clerics, honor a kid’s courage in turning down the Pirates, and highlight a new series bridging faith and science. But the conversation takes a thoughtful turn as they explore the complex Catholic response to immigration policy, urging a balance of justice, mercy, and human dignity.
From birthday affirmations, to March for Life reflections, this episode is full of laughter, challenge, and signs of hope—reminding us that faith touches everything from the football field to the halls of Congress. Join the conversation as faith meets football, science, and social conscience.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Super Bowl Set: Chiefs vs. Eagles
The hosts reluctantly preview the big game, discuss controversial ref calls, and air their mixed feelings about Mahomes, Reid, and Kelce (plus Taylor Swift cameos). Father Dave checks betting lines; Deacon Bob groans.
(06:13) Virtual Reality in the NFL & Bad Calls on the Field
Jaden Daniels’ VR training sparks a conversation about innovation in sports—and what makes a game feel unfair. The hosts recall past playoff heartbreaks and share Super Bowl hopes (and grudges).
(10:46) One Million-Dollar Baseball Card
An 11-year-old unboxes a rare Paul Skenes rookie card and turns down a once-in-a-lifetime offer from the Pirates. The moral of the story? Sometimes wisdom comes from kids—and cash beats perks.
(14:30) Faith and Science: Launching The Purposeful Lab
Dr. Dan Kuebler’s new video series, the Purposeful Lab, takes center stage. Inspired by Father Robert Spitzer’s legacy, the series explores topics like gender, the human person, and how Catholics engage the sciences without fear.
(20:23) Travel Tales and Political Turns
Father Dave recounts his “stuck” trip to Florida and meetings in D.C. about Title IX, religious liberty, and athletics. He also shares about connecting with students at the March for Life and the power of showing up—even for a terrible bus ride.
(26:13) Catholic Bishops and the Immigration Debate
The hosts unpack the USCCB’s recent statement on immigration, affirming the need for enforcement while condemning fear-based raids on schools, churches, and hospitals. It’s a raw and honest conversation about dignity, policy, and what the Church teaches.
(33:29) Signs of Hope
Deacon Bob finds hope in Young Life leaders and the chance to preach to a crowd that includes his own kids. Father Dave reflects on the deeper meaning of the March for Life—why we need to gather not just to oppose abortion but to proclaim the beauty of life itself.
Resources Mentioned
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
What does hope for America look like in 2025? A new inauguration, a national championship loss, and a 200th podcast episode offer some surprising answers.
This week on They That Hope, Deacon Bob Rice and Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, reflect on what it means to hope—both in the life of our nation and in our own everyday moments. Against the backdrop of recent political transitions and ongoing national tensions, they discuss where real hope can be found: in unity, faith, and the freedom only God can give.
They also take a hopeful look at the power of spiritual direction, the promise of Christian Unity, and the testimony of released hostages from Gaza. With plenty of laughs and some painful football heartbreak (we’re looking at you, Notre Dame), Father Dave and Deacon Bob celebrate their Episode 200 by offering their signature blend of humor and hope in today’s complex world.
Thanks for journeying with us to Episode 200, here’s to hundreds more moments of humor, hope, and holiness.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Celebrating 200 Episodes and Football Disappointment
Father Dave and Deacon Bob mark a milestone with their 200th episode and open up about the emotional rollercoaster of Notre Dame’s national championship game. Fr. Dave processes the loss—and a 20-year-old bet with his brother—as a chance to reflect on perseverance, humility, and finding hope in defeat.
(09:36) Spiritual Direction and the Jubilee Year of Hope
The hosts spotlight Franciscan’s School of Spiritual Direction, a transformative formation program that’s helping people walk with others in prayer. Father Dave shares how the Jubilee Mass marks a hopeful new chapter for the Church in 2025.
(12:42) Trump’s Second Inauguration and Where Real Hope Comes From
Reactions to President Trump’s second inauguration include mixed praise and concern. The hosts reflect on how to pray for leaders, move beyond pettiness, and anchor our hope in Christ—not politics.
(22:02) The Release of Hostages and Prayers for Peace
The release of three women held hostage by Hamas for more than 400 days brings a powerful reminder of the suffering still ongoing around the world. Father Dave and Deacon Bob encourage listeners to pray fervently for peace in the Middle East, the end of captivity, and healing for all those affected by war and violence.
(27:30) Christian Unity, the Conversion of St. Paul and Signs of Daily Hope
As the Church marks the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity and the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, the hosts celebrate the power of reconciliation, healing, and small signs of hope—including a particularly meaningful ice cube.
Resources Mentioned
- Paul, Apostle of Christ (film recommendation)
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
Viva Cristo Rey!
More than a rallying cry, it echoes through history as the final words of a martyr, a witness of faith, and the heartbeat of this week’s episode.
Father Dave returns from a pilgrimage to Mexico, where he visited the tomb of Blessed Miguel Pro and stood in the very place where the young priest was executed for celebrating Mass in secret. With deep reverence, he shares the powerful story of Miguel’s final words, “Viva Cristo Rey”, and invites listeners to consider the courage of living and dying for Christ. Meanwhile, Deacon Bob celebrates a different kind of sacramental moment: the baptism of his grandson, a joyful reminder that every life in Christ begins with water and grace.
Of course, there’s plenty of humor, sports updates, and spiritual tangents along the way; from NFL heartbreaks to papal baptisms in the Sistine Chapel, from dry-fit habits to the not-so-ordinary season of Ordinary Time.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) NFL Disappointments and Grandson Joy
The episode opens with mixed emotions: Deacon Bob’s Tampa Bay Bucs and Father Dave’s Denver Broncos are out of the playoffs, but there’s great joy as Deacon Bob baptizes his grandson, Oliver Augustine. It’s a beautiful blend of sorrow and celebration—and a reminder that grace is found even in the midst of letdowns.
(06:48) Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Football as Family
With Notre Dame heading to the national championship, Father Dave reflects on what this moment means to him personally. The game brings back memories of his father, his childhood, and the deeper connection sports can create across generations.
(17:28) Pilgrimage to Guadalupe and the Witness of Blessed Miguel Pro
Father Dave shares deeply moving stories from his recent pilgrimage to Our Lady of Guadalupe, highlighting the martyrdom of Blessed Miguel Pro. From disguises and hidden Masses to the ultimate sacrifice, Miguel’s fearless cry—“Viva Cristo Rey!”—offers a timeless witness of faith under fire.
(21:19) Baptism: Grace, Sacrament, and the Heart of the Church
The hosts dive into a rich theological reflection on baptism, emphasizing its foundational role in the Christian life. They share personal stories—from Deacon Bob’s family to Father Dave’s hospital ministry—revealing how baptism is a sacrament of both life and eternal hope.
(26:10) Ordinary Time: Living the Gospel Daily
Ordinary Time isn’t ordinary at all. Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack how this liturgical season, rooted in the public ministry of Jesus, calls us to deeper discipleship and attentiveness to the holiness of daily life.
(33:30) Signs of Hope: From Martyrs to Athletes
To kick off the Year of Hope, the hosts share uplifting stories of faith—like young athletes openly praising God, a community praying amid wildfire devastation, and the unexpected rise in Bible sales among young adults. It’s a reminder that in a chaotic world, hope is alive and visible in big and small ways.
Resources & Mentions
- FaithandReason.com – Watch Father Dave’s interview with Bishop Frank Caggiano on mission and ministry.
- Blessed Miguel Pro – Learn more about this courageous martyr and his legacy in the Church.
- Spirit and the Bride Conference – A women’s event launching Pentecost weekend at Franciscan University.
- CatholicPrayingCards.com – Explore Deacon Bob’s prayer tools and devotional resources.
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
What does it mean to begin 2025 with a Holy Door, a hoodie, and a broken rib?
In this milestone 198th episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob celebrate the beginning of the Jubilee Year—a time of grace, mercy, and hope that does not disappoint (Romans 5:5). The conversation moves from Rome to Guadalupe, football playoffs to fractured ribs, weaving together the sacred and the silly. They reflect on Pope Francis’ call to joyful hope, the return of traditions at Notre Dame, and the invitation for all of us to enter more deeply into this holy season.
Of course, it wouldn’t be They That Hope without football talk, playful jabs, media hot takes, and an unexpected vacation miracle.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Hoodie Vibes and Holy Cards
Father Dave shows up relaxed in a Notre Dame sweatshirt as Deacon Bob thanks listeners for supporting CatholicPrayingCards.com. They joke about using rosary cards as poker chips—and offer a reminder to email prayer requests to hope@franciscan.edu.
(03:01) Football, Playoffs, and Penn State Picks
The Bucs are in the playoffs, Mike Evans hits 1,000 yards again, and college football turns upside down. The hosts make Super Bowl predictions and highlight Notre Dame’s big win over Georgia—and the return of pre-game Mass for the team.
(12:23) A Hug and a Broken Rib
Deacon Bob recounts a Christmas moment gone wrong (or so right?): his son’s heartfelt hug ends with a fractured rib. Luckily, a birthday trip to the Dominican Republic for his wife—complete with a surprise oceanfront villa—offers unexpected blessings and much-needed rest.
(15:55) SEEK, Silence, and Guadalupe
Father Dave shares moments from SEEK in Salt Lake City, where he spoke to thousands of young men about being “men after God’s heart.” He’s now off to Guadalupe, leading a Franciscan pilgrimage and inviting listeners to send prayer intentions for the journey.
(20:21) Jubilee Doors and A Pope Who Hopes
As the Jubilee Year begins, Father Dave reflects on seeing preparations in Rome and Pope Francis’ call to deeper joy and hope. They discuss shifting media attitudes toward the Pope, his bold defense of life, and what it means to live as hopeful people in the Church today.
Resources Mentioned
- hope@franciscan.edu – Send your prayer intentions for Guadalupe
- Jubilee Year of Hope – Romans 5:5: “Hope does not disappoint.”
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Holy Smokes. Not just an exclamation, but a perfect reaction to an episode where sports, surprises, and the sacred collide.
In this final 2024 episode of They That Hope, Deacon Bob shares the electric experience of standing in the tunnel as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers took the field, while Father Dave recounts something even more awe-inspiring: a private audience with Pope Francis in the Vatican. From the roar of NFL fans to the quiet reverence of the Pope’s library, the hosts explore the breadth of human experience, and the divine grace that fills it.
They also dive into sky-high sports salaries (looking at you, Juan Soto), the mission of Franciscan University, and the heart of Christmas: Emmanuel, God with us. And yes, there's movie talk, praying cards, and a plea not to sing at Wicked.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) From the Buccaneers’ Tunnel to the Vatican Library
Deacon Bob opens the show with a thrilling story of standing in the tunnel as the Buccaneers entered the field, and spotting a rather jolly John Daly. Meanwhile, Father Dave prepares to one-up him with a different kind of entrance: into a private meeting with the Pope.
(04:44) Tunnel Trouble, Team Gear Drama, and Raiders Shade
Learn the strict tunnel rules at Raymond James Stadium, why someone got kicked out for wearing the wrong gear, and how Deacon Bob’s friend diplomatically supported both teams.
(07:30) MLB Contracts and the Cost of a Catechist
Juan Soto’s record-breaking $765M contract sparks a passionate discussion about financial disparities, the value of ministry, and how baseball salaries can make your theology degree feel...humbling.
(14:14) Father Dave Meets Pope Francis
The heart of the episode: Father Dave recounts his private audience with Pope Francis. From presenting the Oath of Fidelity to receiving a papal zucchetto, it's a once-in-a-lifetime moment filled with reverence, humor, and deep spiritual insight.
(20:50) A Theological Conference with a Twist
The hosts discuss the Vatican conference on theology and culture, the difference between experience-based and revelation-based catechesis, and why Franciscan’s academic presence matters.
(28:05) Christmas Movies, Wicked Warnings, and Red One Review
Deacon Bob gives a surprisingly heartfelt thumbs-up to Red One, starring The Rock and Chris Evans. Father Dave contemplates Wicked, but only if there's no sing-along.
(34:39) Emmanuel, God With Us
A moving conversation about the meaning of Emmanuel and Pope Francis’ summary of the kerygma: that Jesus not only died for us, but lives beside us daily—to strengthen, enlighten, and free.
(38:29) Final Blessing and Christmas Reflections
The hosts wrap the year with a reminder to slow down, take a breath, and remember what matters: God is with us. A final blessing for the season and prayers for all who listen.
Resources Mentioned
- Box of Joy – Help give a child in poverty their first Christmas gift.
- Catholic Praying Cards – A new scriptural way to pray the rosary.
- Franciscan University Online Degrees – Master’s programs in theology, catechetics, Catholic studies, criminal justice, and more.
Make this the best Christmas ever for children growing up in poverty around the world by donating a Box of Joy®. Your gift will surprise a child with what could be their first Christmas gift! Each box is filled with toys, clothing, school supplies, a rosary and a story about Jesus. Donate a Box of Joy at boxofjoy.org.
Box of Joy is a ministry of Cross Catholic Outreach.
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.
Wednesday Dec 11, 2024
Wednesday Dec 11, 2024
This episode was supposed to be a regular chat…
Until Father Dave and Deacon Bob decided to take a break.
So instead, enjoy this special supercut episode celebrating Pope Francis’s newest encyclical, Corde Amavit (He Loved Us), with a heart-to-heart on the Sacred Heart.
They unpack Pope Francis’s bold reflections on love, suffering, piety, and empathy—and why the Sacred Heart still speaks powerfully to our anxious, distracted world. Their reflections wind through stories of Pope statues on clearance, Deacon Bob’s favorite icons, and the quiet call to slow down, forgive, and let our hearts be changed.
Plus: Counselor Troi, pierced sides, holy hours, and the Box of Joy: an initiative that could transform a child’s Christmas!
Don’t miss this heartfelt compilation reminding us why the Sacred Heart still matters—especially today.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) A Box of Joy and a Pope Statue Sale
Deacon Bob opens the episode with an appeal for Box of Joy, a way to share Christmas with children in poverty. He also tells the tale of buying a Pope Francis statue on clearance—and why pity can be a spiritual act of mercy.
(02:05) He Loved Us: Pope Francis on the Sacred Heart
Fr. Dave and Deacon Bob introduce the encyclical Corde Amavit, a deeply personal letter about the heart of Jesus. They reflect on its emotional depth, its call to compassion, and how it reveals the Pope’s heart for a wounded world.
(09:01) Where Did Our Hearts Go?
We’ve become people of the head, not the heart. Pope Francis challenges the modern world’s obsession with intellect and technology—and invites us to rediscover devotion, empathy, and childlike wonder.
(18:44) Saints, Statues, and the Pierced Side of Christ
From St. Augustine and St. Margaret Mary to sacred art and the Eucharist, the encyclical draws on centuries of heart-centered theology and mystical vision. The Sacred Heart isn’t just an image—it’s a real encounter with Christ.
(34:09) Forgiveness, Free Will, and the Mission of Love
In the final reflections, Pope Francis reminds us that love must be shared. Reparation, mercy, and self-giving love flow from the Sacred Heart. God won’t force his love—but invites us to choose it, live it, and share it with others.
Resources Mentioned
- Box of Joy – Cross Catholic Outreach – Send a Christmas gift to a child in need
- Corde Amavit – Pope Francis’s 2024 encyclical on the Sacred Heart (available online)
- Return to the Heart by Dr. Shane Owens – Augustinian spirituality of the Sacred Heart
- Examination Journal – Daily reflection tool
Make this the best Christmas ever for children growing up in poverty around the world by donating a Box of Joy®. Your gift will surprise a child with what could be their first Christmas gift! Each box is filled with toys, clothing, school supplies, a rosary and a story about Jesus. Donate a Box of Joy at boxofjoy.org.
Box of Joy is a ministry of Cross Catholic Outreach.
Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.