Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast

TF | S03 E14 | In this episode of Thinking Faith, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld explain what the Catholic Church teaches about the rapture, death, and divine judgment. They unpack where modern rapture theories came from, what Scripture actually says about the end times, and how God’s justice and mercy meet in the moment of death. A clear, Catholic guide to some of Christianity’s most misunderstood beliefs.00:00 Introduction and New Year Greetings01:12 Classroom Questions and Podcast Reflections05:12 Discussing the Rapture and Death07:34 Biblical Interpretations and Historical Context11:10 Human Nature and the Desire for Escape20:29 The Left Behind Series and Pop Culture21:00 The Influence of 'Left Behind' and Nicholas Cage21:18 The Gospel's Answer to Fear and Hope21:33 Catholic Church's Caution on End Times Predictions22:37 Human Desire for Control and Prophecy23:15 The Overlap of Rapture and Prosperity Gospel23:47 Endless Deferrals in Rapture Predictions25:23 The Moment of Death and Biological Ambiguity27:46 Particular Judgment and Encounter with Christ33:17 Speculations on Hell and Eternal Judgment36:29 Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections

This week on the Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld explain why our production schedule has been a little... sporadic, shall we say. But fear not, for we have a plan!Part of that plan includes taking a short break over the next few weeks. We will be back in January with new episodes of Thinking Faith. Until then, Merry Christmas!!

Archbishop Donald Bolen shares a reflection inspired by the presepi of Naples, nativity scenes that reveal the tired, longing faces of ordinary people waiting for a Messiah. This Christmas, we are invited to notice the quiet coming of Christ into the rubble of our wounded world, to recognize God’s hidden presence in our daily lives, and to find hope, courage, and compassion this Christmas.

| Re-TF | E05 | In this special episode of Re-Thinking Faith, Archbishop Don Bolen joins the conversation for a rich reflection on Christmas, the Incarnation, and hope in a broken world. Drawing on Pope Francis’ reflections on the Nativity and his own love of nativity scenes, Archbishop Bolen explores what it truly means to believe in a God who becomes flesh.This conversation looks beyond words to the heart of incarnational faith—a faith expressed through presence, accompaniment, and walking with others, especially in times of grief, loss, and suffering. A timely and deeply pastoral reflection for Advent and Christmas, this episode invites listeners to rediscover how Christ’s birth continues to transform lives today.

| S03 E13 | Deacon Eric Gurash and guest, Michelle Braden from the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry unveil an exciting new teen sacramental preparation initiative—designed for young people who previously missed Baptism, Confirmation, or other sacraments. This episode explores how monthly gatherings, community-building, team-building, and flexible catechesis create a welcoming environment where teens can grow in faith, build relationships, and prepare for the sacraments in a supportive, belonging-focused setting.Contact Michelle Braden at [email protected] to learn more!00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:54 Introducing Michelle Braden and the New Initiative02:11 Challenges and Reasons for the New Program04:32 Program Structure and Goals05:55 Community Building and Sacramental Preparation10:14 Parish Involvement and Mentorship17:31 Call for Volunteers and Conclusion17:44 Introduction to the New Program18:03 Monthly Meetings and Source Event Integration19:30 Initial Sessions and Getting to Know Each Other20:52 Building Community and Fun Activities21:39 Importance of Personal Connections23:44 Flexibility and Adapting to Group Dynamics29:19 Encouraging Participation and Open Invitation29:57 Final Thoughts and Contact Information