Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast) - podcast cover

Ask Father Josh (Your Catholic Question and Answer Podcast)

Ascensionascensionpress.com
Ask Fr. Josh is the podcast where I hear you out and do my best to help you navigate the tricky times in life when our Catholic Faith doesn’t give you an easy “fill-in-the blank” answer. On this show, we’ll listen to one another, problem solve together, and ultimately entrust everything to our Lord. If this is your first time tuning in, here’s how the show goes: Each episode, I'll address three to four of your questions. I’ll cover everything from Catholic teaching to moral dilemmas to relationship advice. I'm not perfect, and I can’t guarantee that my advice is going to make things easy, but I'll do my best to share what I've learned during my time as a priest, pastor, and friend. Send me your questions at ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Episodes

Compartmentalizing Faith

Do you ever find yourself compartmentalizing your faith? In our culture today, it can be very easy to leave our faith at church or in Bible Study. However, Fr. Josh encourages you to bring your faith everywhere…even Bachelor/Bachelorette parties and to the workplace. Snippet From the Show Do not be mediocre. Instead, live radically for Jesus Christ. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to ...

Sep 29, 202220 min

Receiving Communion in Other Denominations: Yes or No?

Fr. Josh answers a question regarding the reception of communion with other Christian denominations. He discusses both attending their services and receiving communion and whether it is permissible or not. Snippet From the Show The Sacrifice of the Mass is irreplaceable. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Sep 22, 202232 min

What if My Employer Supports Things Contrary to My Beliefs?

Can I work at a company that supports movements or organizations that are not in line with my beliefs? Fr. Josh answers this question and offers advice on how to discern if your place of work is the right place for you to be. Fr. Josh also shares about a married couple who are on the path to canonization. Snippet From the Show When God the Father looks at us, he sees us as a gift. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit...

Sep 15, 202227 min

How Can I Serve My Parish?

Did you know that each of us is called to serve our parish in a particular way? Sometimes it can be daunting to figure out how God wants us to serve. In this episode, Fr. Josh gives tips and suggestions on how to discern God’s will in this matter. Snippet From the Show Discernment cannot happen if you are not invested in the sacraments. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by fi...

Sep 08, 202225 min

Be My Guest: Do You Know What You Believe? (with Sarah Swafford)

What do we believe and why do we believe it? This week, Fr. Josh is joined by special guest Sarah Swafford to discuss the new series What We Believe. Sarah shares some of her favorite aspects of the series and why this series is so important for people today. Snippet From the Show Let the stirring of your heart be illuminated by your mind. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by...

Sep 01, 202242 min

Anointing of the Sick vs. Last Rites

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between Anointing of the Sick and Last Rites? Fr. Josh shares about each one and explains their differences. Fr. Josh also shares about an incredible young man who not only lived a life for God, but also gives us a great example of a holy death. Snippet From the Show When you receive the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, you receive spiritual strength from God. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPr...

Aug 25, 202228 min

How Can the Saints Hear Us?

Welcome back to this new season of Ask Fr. Josh! In this episode, Fr. Josh responds to a question on how the saints are able to hear us when we pray to them. He also shares about a saint who we can look to to help us break boundaries and serve the Lord beyond our own capacity. Snippet From the Show We were created for Jesus and only he will satisfy us. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback ...

Aug 18, 202232 min

Bringing Children to Mass, Stations of the Cross Outside of Lent, and Altar Servers

In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions on bringing children to Mass, praying the Stations of the Cross outside of Lent, and understanding rules around altar servers. Snippet From the Show Jesus is always inviting you to enter more deeply into the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Jun 02, 202219 min

Catholic Apparel, Treating Yourself, and Valid Baptisms

In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions about wearing Catholic apparel and accessories, whether or not it is ok to “treat yourself,” and what makes a Baptism valid. Snippet From the Show We have to take care of ourselves so that we can pour ourselves out for others. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

May 26, 202223 min

Seeking Catholic Friendship, Obstacles to Entering the Church, and a Desire for Heaven

In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions on how to develop Catholic friendships, what to do with obstacles to entering the Church, and having a desire for Heaven. Snippet From the Show If you pursue Jesus and the sacraments, God will provide the grace you need to face any obstacles. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfather...

May 19, 202217 min

Tears in Heaven, Mary and Anger, and Struggling with Scrupulosity

In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions about whether or not there are tears in Heaven, Mary feeling anger, and how to work through scrupulosity. Snippet From the Show In Heaven, we will see things as God sees them. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

May 12, 202223 min

Donating Your Body to Science, Old Testament Saints, and the Story of Veronica

In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions about donating your body to science, Old Testament Saints, and the story of Veronica. Fr. Josh also shares some of the fruits of his recent trip to Italy. Snippet From the Show We are called to imitate the virtues of the saints so that we can persevere in our walk toward Heaven. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a for...

May 05, 202216 min

Be My Guest: Motherhood, Mary, and Favorite Female Saints with Lisa Cotter

In this episode, Fr. Josh and guest Lisa Cotter discuss the desire (or lack thereof) for motherhood, how we can be like Mary, and what are some of their favorite female saints. Lisa also shares a little about her new book Reveal the Gift: Living the Feminine Genius. Snippet From the Show There is so much freedom in how femininity can be expressed and how feminine gifts can be lived. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Subm...

Apr 28, 202241 min

Be My Guest: Signs from God, Fear in Discernment, and Patience with Fr. Gregory Pine

In this episode, Fr. Josh and guest Fr. Pine discuss signs from God, what to do with fear in discernment, and how to be patient with someone who is indecisive. Fr. Pine also shares about his new book: Prudence: Choose Confidently, Live Boldly. Snippet From the Show Sometimes the Lord prompts us to ask for a sign, and sometimes the Lord asks us to trust and to choose. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your question...

Apr 21, 202229 min

Holy Week Message from Fr. Josh

From Assisi, Italy, Fr. Josh offers an encouraging message for this Holy Week. Fr. Josh says that each of us needs to make prayer a priority and simply sit with the Lord and be with him. Snippet From the Show Sit, watch, and pray. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Apr 14, 20224 min

Speaking in Tongues and Sacred Art vs. Pornography

In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions about speaking in tongues and the differences between sacred art and pornography. Snippet From the Show We are all invited to see the human body as a gift and not an object to be used. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Apr 07, 202229 min

Responding to Untrue Words of Condolence and Celebrating During Lent Description

In this episode, Fr. Josh answers questions on how to respond to untrue words of condolence and what the parameters are for celebrating during Lent. Fr. Josh also offers advice on how to offer condolence to those who have experienced a miscarriage. Snippet From the Show God is inviting us to want Heaven for everyone. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at ...

Mar 31, 202230 min

Optional Prayers in Mass, Marian Apparitions, and How the Bible Is for Everyone

Fr. Josh answers questions about the use of optional prayers in Mass, the purpose of Marian apparitions, and ways to encourage others to read Scripture. Snippet From the Show Be about what God’s about. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Mar 24, 202223 min

Be My Guest: Understanding Exorcisms and Avoiding the Demonic with Fr. Vincent Lampert

In this episode, Fr. Josh and guest Fr. Lampert discuss the topic of exorcisms, how to avoid the demonic, and how to be liberated from any connection with the demonic. Snippet From the Show We may walk away from the Lord, but he never abandons us. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Mar 17, 202217 min

Listening to Homilies, Charisms of Religious Orders, and Lent during Pregnancy

Fr. Josh answers questions on whether or not you have to listen to the homily at Mass, what the some of the different charisms in religious orders are, and what Lent should look like for an expectant mother. Snippet From the Show Before we complain about life circumstances, go to Jesus and be open to his response. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www...

Mar 10, 202221 min

Be My Guest: Dating and Relationship Questions with Dr. Mario Sacasa

Fr. Josh is joined by special guest Dr. Mario Sacasa. They answer questions on how to discuss the discernment of marriage in a relationship, when and how to share your past, what to do when the person you have feelings for does not draw you closer to God, and how to set appropriate boundaries in a relationship. Snippet From the Show If it's not for my holiness, it is not for me. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit y...

Mar 03, 202243 min

Good Retreats, Prayer Scarves, and Resources for Lent

Fr. Josh answers questions on how to find a good retreat, the purpose of wearing a prayer scarf (or mantilla), and what are some good resources for Lent. Snippet From the Show Fasting should turn you to prayer; and the fruit of prayer ought to be almsgiving. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Feb 24, 202224 min

Caring for Our Parents, Harry Potter, and Modes of Receiving Holy Communion

Fr. Josh answers questions regarding a person’s responsibility to care for their parents, whether or not Christians should read Harry Potter, and what are the correct modes for receiving Holy Communion. Snippet From the Show “The Word of God must order our steps in our walk to eternity.” Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfath...

Feb 17, 202228 min

Women Leaders in the Church, Ephesians 5:22-23, and the Right Reception of Holy Communion

Fr. Josh answers questions regarding the authority and leadership of women in the Church, what it means for wives to be submissive to their husbands, and how to talk with loved ones about the right reception of Holy Communion. Snippet From the Show Because I am in love with Christ, I care about what he cares about. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at ww...

Feb 10, 202229 min

Syncretism, Facing Rejection, and the Proper Use of NFP

Fr. Josh answers regarding the issue of syncretism, how to face rejection when pursuing your vocation, and how to use Natural Family Planning (NFP) appropriately in marriage. Snippet From the Show “You are seen. You are known. You are wanted by God.” Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Feb 03, 202226 min

Medical Marijuana, Spiritual Gifts, and the Reward of Holiness

Fr. Josh answers questions regarding the use of medical marijuana, why an individual person does not possess all the spiritual gifts, and finally the reward of holiness and the sacrifices we make in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Snippet From the Show "We avoid sin because we’ve come to know the one who our hearts were created for." Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by f...

Jan 27, 202233 min

Traveling with a Significant Other, Prayer Lists, and Fraternal Correction

Fr. Josh answers questions about traveling with your significant other before marriage, how to prune long prayer lists when interceding for others, and how to charitably correct friends or family members who are not living virtuously. Snippet From the Show "The fruit of our belief system is our behavior." Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensio...

Jan 20, 202216 min

Growing in Compassion, Seeing Christ in Others, and Emotional Chastity

Fr. Josh answers questions on emotional chastity, growing in compassion, and seeing Christ in others. Snippet From the Show By the virtue of my Baptism, I am the Body of the Christ. When the Father sees me, the Father sees his beloved Son. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Jan 13, 202222 min

Prayers for Souls in Purgatory, St. Michael the Archangel, and Jesus Before the Incarnation

Fr. Josh answers questions about what our prayers do for the souls in purgatory, why St. Michael the Archangel is considered a saint, and what was Jesus' nature as the Second Person of the Trinity before the incarnation. Snippet From the Show The Catholic Church uses the term "saint" to refer to any being who is in heaven, either an angel or a human being. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedb...

Jan 06, 202226 min

2021 New Years Special

Today, Fr. Josh encourages us to look at our vices and then to pursue the opposing virtue in the coming new year. Text “askfrjosh” to 33-777 to subscribe to Fr. Josh’s shownotes or go to www.AscensionPress.com/askfatherjosh Submit your questions and feedback to Fr.Josh by filling out a form at www.ascensionpress.com/askfatherjosh

Dec 30, 20214 min