Podcast: Big City Catholics Podcast

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.

Deacon Kevin McCormack, Superintendent of Schools, joins Bishop Brennan to discuss the Education Choice for Children Act (ECCA), which will allow more families to tap into organizations like Futures in Education to receive scholarships. The act also rewards donors with a 100% non-refundable federal income tax credit. Bishop Brennan urges Catholics to support this act NOW and help more children experience a Catholic education.  

In this episode of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan and Fr. Heanue recap the vibrant events currently happening in our diocese. During this Ordinary Time in the Church’s calendar, we honor the religious ministers who dedicate their service to our schools, parishes, and hospitals. They highlight how these religious men and women are a vital presence in parish and diocesan life, and how their service is a true manifestation of the Holy Spirit at work.

In this special edition of Big City Catholics, Bishop Brennan joyfully announces the election of American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV. He notes that, like Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV emphasizes that the Church is for all people and brings a renewed focus on being a missionary bishop. Bishop Brennan expresses his hope that the Church around the world will rejoice together, affirming that the risen Christ is at work through Pope Leo XIV. He invites all of us to unite as one Church and follow where our new Holy Father will lead.

Ed Wilkinson, Editor Emeritus of The Tablet, joins Bishop Brennan on this episode of Big City Catholics. On the threshold of the conclave, which will select the new Pope, they reminisce about the experience of past conclaves and the significance this one will have for the future of the Church. Bishop Brennan states that God will give us the Pope we need for the times, and asks for the gift of the Holy Spirit, not only on the Cardinals, but on the whole Church.