Ministry in New York City isn’t for the faint of heart but it's full of grace. Oscar and Brandon Morel talk about the power of cultural evangelization, the immigrant roots of Catholic New York, and how figures like Pierre Toussaint still inspire a gospel rooted in justice and joy. Plus, they explore the surprising harmony between the Church and hip hop, and what it means to become saints in the middle of the city. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your ...
Jul 07, 2025•34 min•Ep. 169
In this vibrant and heartfelt episode of Ave Spotlight, host Oscar Rivera sits down with Mari Pablo to explore what it means to grow up bicultural and live out a faith shaped by both tradition and personal encounter. They unpack the beauty and challenges of cultural Catholicism, the need to move beyond fear-based faith, and the importance of healing and hope found in Christ. Mari also shares the mission behind In His Heart Ministries, offering a powerful call to embrace both devotional practices...
Jun 23, 2025•37 min•Ep. 168
On this episode, Oscar talks to high school seniors from public, private and Catholic Schools about their Catholic experience in each of their school settings. This conversation is not only eye opening but hopeful. These teens are not the future of the Church, but the *RIGHT NOW *of the Church. Justin Dery of Dery Music & Media donated his time, talent, and equipment for this episode. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided ...
Jun 09, 2025•40 min•Ep. 167
Oscar and Kim Zember have an honest conversation about how the Church often mishandles sexual sin—treating some sins as worse than others—and how this mindset drives people away from mercy. Kim shares her personal journey of faith and freedom, challenging listeners to stop ranking sins and start recognizing how fiercely Jesus is pursuing their hearts. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.forteca...
May 26, 2025•35 min•Ep. 166
This episode’s guest isn’t just beloved by God—she’s my beloved! I sit down with my wife, Pamela Rivera, for an honest conversation on the strength, beauty, and resilience of motherhood. We talk about how true femininity isn’t a one-size-fits-all and how society is now rebelling against the very image it created. But God’s vision for womanhood is deeper, more durable, and divinely designed. Don’t miss this one. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your fri...
May 13, 2025•37 min•Ep. 165
Oscar and Jill Simons have an honest conversation about the Holy Spirit in today’s modernist world. Together they explore the power of charisms—gifts from the Holy Spirit—and how they shape our mission as baptized people. This conversation challenges listeners to consider diving deeper into what it really means to walk with the Spirit. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
Apr 28, 2025•44 min•Ep. 164
As we enter the final week of Lent, host Oscar Rivera reminds us that it’s not the time to dwell on any shortcomings in our almsgiving, fasting, and prayer. Instead, it’s a moment to refocus, recommit, and finish strong. Whether your Lent has gone exactly as planned or felt a bit off track, these last few days offer a powerful opportunity to embrace the spirit of sacrifice and spiritual growth. In this episode, Oscar shares encouragement and practical wisdom to help you make this final stretch c...
Apr 14, 2025•21 min•Ep. 163
In this episode, Oscar sits down with Catholic author and media evangelist Allison Gingras to talk about marriage, family, and the boldness of saying "yes" when God calls you into the unexpected. Allison shares her powerful journey of surrender and trust, which led her all the way to China to adopt a specific child. We also explore the beauty of the Sacrament of Marriage, how God guides couples, and the importance of open communication in following his lead. We would love it if you could leave a...
Mar 31, 2025•29 min•Ep. 162
In this episode, Oscar sits down with Mary Bruno to unpack the quirks, challenges, and joys of marriage. From humorous food debates to deep struggles with infertility and faith, they share raw and uplifting stories of love, loss, and transformation. Mary opens up about her journey through infertility, the adoption of her daughter, and the powerful moment she encountered Jesus in her pain. Together, they explore the beauty of intimacy, the importance of vulnerability, and how God’s light shines t...
Mar 17, 2025•33 min•Ep. 161
In this episode of Ave Spotlight, Oscar chats with Renzo and Monica Ortega—podcast hosts, authors, and speakers—for a candid and lively conversation about the beautiful, messy, and unexpected sides of married life. From navigating cultural differences to tackling faith struggles, they open up about what it really takes to build a strong, Christ-centered marriage. And they don’t shy away from the tough stuff—emotional infidelity, societal pressures, sex, and even the Church’s blind spots in marri...
Mar 03, 2025•41 min•Ep. 160
Join Oscar and Bro Rhy (Ryan Ramirez) as they dive into their personal stories, cultural traditions, and compare Olympic lifting with powerlifting. They explore the importance of social emotional learning (SEL) in ministry, how self-awareness and introspection help manage stress and emotions, and the role of faith in overcoming life’s challenges. Throughout the conversation, they share their spiritual journeys and highlight how Jesus plays a central role in every aspect of life. Tune in for an e...
Feb 17, 2025•44 min•Ep. 159
Join Oscar and Greg Bottaro, a Catholic psychologist and founder of the CatholicPsych Institute, for a thought-provoking discussion at the intersection of faith, science, and human vulnerability. In this episode, they explore the Catholic Church’s evolving perspective on the human person, the connection between faith and mental health, and how emotions and relationships mirror God’s creation. They also delve into the Church’s role in mental health conversations, the impact of seasonal depression...
Feb 03, 2025•44 min•Ep. 158
Fresh off the Seek 25 Conference, Oscar and Jackie Angel unpack the power of large conferences that unite young people, spark friendships, and ignite encounters with Jesus. Jackie shares her journey with scripture—from opening her first Bible at eighteen years old to writing Memorize Scripture: Simple Steps to Pray, Ponder, and Practice God’s Word. Together, they break down how scripture can transform lives, strengthen relationships, and inspire faith, no matter where you’re starting from. Tune ...
Jan 20, 2025•27 min•Ep. 157
Step into 2025 with renewed purpose! In this episode, Alex Gotay—Catholic speaker, Marine, and 4th Degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor—explores how resilience, humility, and discipline can transform your life. Drawing inspiration from the WWII film_ The Six Triple Eight_, Alex unpacks why resolutions often fail and how perseverance shapes character. Discover how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu goes beyond self-defense, offering lessons in faith, discipline, and spiritual growth. This powerful conversation...
Jan 06, 2025•34 min•Ep. 156
Get ready to jingle all the way through this festive episode! Oscar’s counting down his top 5 Christmas jams, spilling the tea on the most misunderstood holiday classics, and tackling the ultimate Christmas debate: Did Mary Know? But it’s more than just the music—Oscar dives into Mary’s incredible role in the Christmas story, highlighting her strength, faith, and why she’s the real MVP of the season. Whether you’re here for hot takes, fresh insights on your favorite carols, or a deeper appreciat...
Dec 20, 2024•23 min•Ep. 155
Join Oscar and Joan Watson, Catholic speaker, writer, and pilgrim formation manager at Verso Ministries, for an enlightening journey into the Jubilee year! Discover the rich symbolism of the Holy Door at St. Peter's Basilica and its profound connection to God's boundless mercy. Joan shares powerful insights from her upcoming book, Opening the Holy Door, offering reflections that will inspire your faith. The episode concludes with an uplifting conversation about gratitude, hope, and the exciting ...
Dec 09, 2024•29 min•Ep. 154
Why has our deep longing for community been overshadowed by division—setting my tribe against your tribe? In part two of our conversation, Bishop Joseph Espaillat, II, and Oscar address the pressing issue of disunity and its dangers to God’s Kingdom on earth. They explore how polarization affects our faith and offer practical steps toward reconciliation. Plus, hear a message of hope and Bishop Espaillat’s inspiring closing words. Don’t miss this powerful discussion on the transformative power of...
Nov 25, 2024•33 min•Ep. 153
Join Oscar and Bishop Joseph A. Espaillat as they unpack the powerful words, "may your kingdom come," from the Our Father and uncover the true purpose of this often-overlooked line in one of Christianity's most beloved prayers. They dive into what it really means to invite God's Kingdom into our lives, exploring whether faith has become too individualized and how we can refocus on community and unity. Along the way, we’ll explore an “amen or ouch” approach to speaking truth that challenges and i...
Nov 11, 2024•32 min•Ep. 152
In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of trust issues and anxiety that so many teens face today. Can relational ministry be the ultimate tool for guiding them through the rough waters of adolescence? Join us as we explore the thrilling yet perilous world of accompanying teens and how we can help teens recognize that they are not just the future—they are the right now! Get ready for an insightful conversation with Deacon Bob Rice about the mission territory that is ministry to youth...
Oct 28, 2024•37 min•Ep. 151
In today’s episode, we dive into the powerful and mesmerizing springbok—an emblem of both strength and grace. Joined by Katie Hartfiel, we explore how the dignity of womanhood is rooted in the ability to embrace this balance. Through the example of Mary, the mother of God, we discuss how embodying both strength and grace enriches not only a woman's identity but society as a whole. Together, we’ll unpack the importance of recognizing and valuing these two, Tune in for a thought-provoking conversa...
Oct 11, 2024•24 min•Ep. 150
In this episode, Oscar talks with Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers to explore his roots in Barbados and his lifelong passion for trains. Together, we uncover fascinating insights about trains, drawing a powerful analogy between the mechanics of cruise control and the state of modern manhood. Just as a train can coast smoothly when balanced and under the right conditions, the same applies to men navigating life. However, without that balance, cruise control can lead to disaster—much like how many men t...
Sep 30, 2024•25 min•Ep. 149
Ever wonder if your spiritual practices are drawing you closer to God or pulling you away? In this episode, Tanner Kalina sheds light on the subtle dangers of scrupulosity—when devotion becomes obsession—and how it can create barriers between us and the Father’s love. We also journey through the transformative life of St. Augustine of Hippo, uncovering how his mother’s relentless prayers and God’s boundless grace guided him from restless searching to profound peace. Join us as we explore the pow...
Sep 16, 2024•31 min•Ep. 148
Grab your backpack and get ready! In this episode, Oscar sits down with the ever-inspiring Sr. Josephine Garrett from the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Sr. Josephine dishes out practical and heartwarming “back to school” tips for parents, teens, and college students alike. From staying organized to staying faithful, she reminds us that even in the busiest seasons, ordinary people can do extraordinary things with God’s amazing grace. Whether you’re gearing up for class or just need a li...
Sep 02, 2024•28 min•Ep. 147
In this new episode of Ave Spotlight, host Oscar Rivera sits down with Katie Prejean McGrady—host of Ave Explores and The Katie McGrady Show on Sirius XM. Together, they discuss the origins of their collaboration, dive into their experience at the National Eucharistic Congress, and share thoughts on the Olympics. Follow along at avemariapress.com or subscribe wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! ...
Aug 16, 2024•26 min•Ep. 146
Oscar shares his hopes and prayers for this podcast—that it will bring encouragement, enthusiasm, and empowerment to everyday Catholics to live out their faith as described in Acts 2:42, “They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers.” Follow along at avemariapress.com or subscribe wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your frie...
Aug 02, 2024•9 min•Ep. 145
Hello, Spotlight friends and welcome to my final episode of Ave Spotlight. I'm Chenele Shaw, and it's with a mix of emotions that I bring you this farewell episode. For three incredible years, we've delved into meaningful conversations, explored faith and community, and shared stories that have touched our hearts. As I prepare to move on to coordinate two routes for a national Eucharistic pilgrimage this summer, I can't help but reflect on the journey we've had together. In this episode, I'll sh...
May 06, 2024•13 min•Ep. 144
In the final episode of Ignite! Sparking Faith in the Hearts of Teens series, Lillian Fallon, author of Theology of Style, discusses how young people can express their dignity and Catholic faith through their personal style. As a teen, Fallon shares how her parents gave her the freedom to express her creativity and uniqueness in her style which lead to discovering her uniqueness, worth, and identity in the Lord. How can you help the young people in your life express their self-worth, uniqueness,...
Apr 22, 2024•24 min•Ep. 143
When we’re having a bad day or going through a rough patch, some of the greatest comforts come from our friends. Whether it’s to give us advice, pump us up, or just sit with us in the hard stuff, having solid people in our lives is crucial for feeling supported. In this episode, discover how to create a group of heavenly helpers—or “saint squad,” as speaker, writer, and teacher Amy J. Cattapan calls it—to connect with saints personally and to reap the benefits of their guidance and intercession....
Apr 08, 2024•22 min•Ep. 142
In this episode, we delve into the profound influence of family on the spiritual journey of teens, featuring the insightful perspectives of Jasmyn and Steven Joubert, a dynamic young Catholic couple. Through their experiences and reflections, we uncover how families and close-knit communities ignite the hearts of young people. Join us as we explore the power of familial bonds and the role they play in inspiring and nurturing the faith lives of today's youth! We would love it if you could leave a...
Mar 25, 2024•27 min•Ep. 141
In this episode of Ave Spotlight, Annie Grandell, Director of YDisciple, discusses the impact of transformative media. Join us as Annie shares insights on ways that media can assist us in ministry while being fun, informative, and well done. Explore the intersection of faith, media, and personal transformation in this enlightening conversation! We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic....
Mar 11, 2024•19 min•Ep. 140
