In this bonus episode, we dive deeper into the intriguing question of whether a woman could ever become pope. Plus, we discuss the current hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church and the significant barriers women face in being ordained.

We also come back to the goodness that Pope Leo XIV seems to embody, suggesting that regardless of religious titles, it's the inherent kindness that truly matters.

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Special guest for this episode:

• Kathleen Cummings, a professor of history and American studies at the University of Notre Dame, with a focus on the history of women, Catholicism and American religion. Her books include A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American.
• John Doughney, a childhood friend of Pope Leo. They attended Catholic school together in Chicago, and he now lives in Texas, running a beautiful stained glass business with his wife.

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Highlights from this episode:

• The Catholic Church's hierarchical structure makes it highly unlikely for women to become priests in the near future, let alone a pope.
• The slow pace of change within the Catholic Church means that any significant reforms will take generations to implement, if they happen at all.
• Pope Leo XIV's past education under female theologians suggests potential for progressive change, but resistance remains strong regarding women's ordination.
• The idea of faith as a justification for values is discussed, emphasizing that goodness is not inherently linked to religious beliefs.
• John's reflections on growing up in a blue-collar family highlight how community and tradition shape individual values and beliefs.
• The conversation touches on the intersection of faith, politics, and morality, urging listeners to reflect on the true essence of serving one's fellow man.

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Additional Resources:

A Saint of Our Own: How the Quest for a Holy Hero Helped Catholics Become American by Kathleen Cummings

'We knew there was something special about him,' says childhood friend of Pope Leo

How a humble Chicago schoolboy Robert Prevost with a veteran father rose to become America's first Pope  by the Daily Mail

Pope Leo XIV: Robert Prévost arrived in Chulucanas, Peru in 1985 by the Peru News Agency

Stained Glass by John & Nancy Doughney

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And if you like this episode, you might also love:

What Was the Constitutional Convention?

Why Does the President Only Serve Two Terms?

Is the President Above the Law?

How Are Presidents Elected?

What is the US Constitution?

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This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map

What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219

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