Podcast: Big City Catholics Podcast

Bishop Brennan records this episode of Big City Catholics from the heart of the Eternal City, Rome, as he welcomes pilgrims from our diocese for the Jubilee of Youth. Joined by Lucero Manzanares, Associate Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, they reflect on the powerful witness of young people alive in their faith. From a moving pilgrimage to Assisi and the tomb of Blessed Carlo Acutis, to the celebration of Mass and their highly anticipated encounter with Pope Leo XIV, every moment overflows with God’s presence. Bishop Brennan shares how being surrounded by others who are rooted in the same vibrant faith can be a true game changer.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan shares the special experience of celebrating Sunday Mass at Citi Field—a powerful way to serve those who work to create a safe and meaningful experience for Mets fans. He’s joined by James Benesh, Vice President of Ballpark Experience for the New York Mets, who shares how these Masses, much like those in a parish, bring people from all corners of the community together. Bishop Brennan also speaks with Rev. Msgr. Thomas C. Machalski, Jr., pastor of Sacred Heart in Bayside and chaplain to the Mets, who discusses Catholic Athletes for Christ, an organization that facilitates the celebration of Mass for Catholic players, coaches, and team personnel at many stadiums.

Diocesan priests Father Juan Luxama and Father Ikenna Okagbue join Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue on this episode of Big City Catholics to share their experiences on pilgrimage to Yakima, Washington, and other missionary journeys through the Catholic Extension Society. They share their joy of being witnesses of hope and bringing people together in faith. Bishop Brennan emphasizes the importance of building the Church where people are.

Bishop Brennan hosts this episode of Big City Catholics from the state of Washington in the Diocese of Yakima, as he is joined by Father Charles Keeney. They discuss the opportunities given to priests by the Catholic Extension Society which allow them to commit to the missionary work of the Church by building up Catholic communities among the poorest regions of America. Bishop Brennan explains the importance of walking in solidarity among God’s people and bringing the Church to its fullness.

Bishop Earl K. Fernandes, Bishop of Columbus, Ohio joins Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue on this episode of Big City Catholics to talk about the Religious Workforce Protection Act. He explains concern over the current U.S. rule where those of religious service are to return to their country of origin for a full year should their visa expire before they receive judgement about a green card or permanent residency. This bill will remedy this issue to ensure stability and secure conditions for religious communities by resolving legal ambiguities. Bishop Brennan discusses how foreign missionaries are vital to our diverse diocese and expresses commitment to comprehensive immigration reform.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan reflects on the rich liturgical celebrations in June, including the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, and the feast of  Saints Peter and Paul. He talks about how the lives of Saints Peter, Paul, and John the Baptist demonstrate God’s power to work through His people in the name of the Gospel. Saint John Paul II connected to the Sacred Heart through prayer for priests. Support for our clergy is discussed by Bishop Brennan, who expresses his joy at the seven new priestly ordinations in the diocese this year, hopeful that an increase in vocations will continue.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan makes a special guest appearance on Divine Wisdom Catholic Academy’s podcast where he engages in a discussion about reaching families through media, faith in culture and school life, and the benefits of choosing a Catholic Education. Hear Bishop Brennan speak with two academy students as he offers his advice on how to connect with God through friendship and on staying strong in spirituality.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue are joined by the Ordination Class of 2024 as they celebrate their first year of priesthood. They reflect on their current assignments, share their experiences, and give testimony to those discerning the priesthood. Bishop Brennan states that it is humbling as a priest to receive the graces of the Holy Spirit through encounters with the faithful.

Father Joseph Zwosta joins Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue on this episode of Big City Catholics to discuss the serious concerns and consequences surrounding the proposed legalization of assisted suicide. Bishop Brennan reaffirms the sanctity of human life and urges us to raise our voices by investing in both natural and supernatural resources to ensure that individuals can experience a death marked by true dignity.

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Father Heanue are joined by Father Philip Tangorra of the Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey, co-author of the new publication This is Our Faith. Father Tangorra discusses how this catechetical program offers a complete and comprehensive presentation of the faith, guiding both adolescents and adults in understanding the elements of Christian spirituality and discovering their personal vocations. Bishop Brennan emphasizes the importance of resources like this in helping people encounter Jesus and experience the truth of His love.