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Prof. Chad Pecknold analyzes John Henry Newman’s theological legacy, focusing on doctrinal development, conscience as a divine imperative, and his impact on the Second Vatican Council and modern Catholic-Protestant dialogue. This lecture was given on April 25th, 2024, at Hillsdale College. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at <a href="https://thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events" target="_blank">thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events</a>. About the Speaker: Dr. Chad C. Pecknold earned his PhD in Systematic Theology at the University of Cambridge in England. He is a Catholic theologian and for the last 16 years he has been a professor of theology at The Catholic University of America in Washington DC, teaching in the areas of fundamental theology, Christian anthropology and political theology. Since 2022, he has been named by The Catholic Herald as one of the most influential Catholic thought leaders and authors in the United States.&nbsp; An internationally recognized scholar of Augustine’s theological and political thought, Pecknold has authored or edited five books — including Christianity and Politics: A Brief Guide to the History and The T&amp;T Clark Companion to Augustine and Modern Theology —and authored dozens of peer-reviewed journal articles. He edits the Sacra Doctrina series for CUA Press with Fr. Thomas Joseph White O.P. He has served the public by educating thousands of students at the Institute of Catholic Culture, and also through his many columns at First Things, National Review, Wall Street Journal, New York Post, and The Catholic Herald. He has been an invited guest on NPR's "All Things Considered," Fox News, ABC News, and has been a frequent guest on EWTN News Nightly, World Over Live with Raymond Arroyo, and various other EWTN programs, such as the celebrated series on Heresies.&nbsp; Pecknold has also led institutions, serving as Chair of the American Academy of Catholic Theology from 2015-2020, expanding and professionalizing a guild of theologians faithful to the Magisterium. He also serves in non-profit board leadership as Board Director for Americans United for Life, Board Member for Pro-Life Partners, Board Member for the Classical Learning Test, Fellow of the Institute for Human Ecology, and as Resident Theologian at the Institute for Faith and Public Culture at the Basilica of Saint Mary — the oldest Catholic Church in the Commonwealth of Virginia. While currently finishing a short book on the Catholic understanding of Augustine’s Confessions, Pecknold continues to work on a long term project on Augustine’s City of God and the Christian order of things. He and his wife Dr Sara Pecknold (who teaches Music History at Christendom College) have five children, including adorably identical twin toddler girls whose names they frequently confuse! Keywords: Anglican-Catholic Dialogue, Conscience, Development of Doctrine, Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine, Faith and Reason, John Henry Newman, Apologia Pro Vita Sua, Second Vatican Council, The Idea of a University, Modern Ecclesiology

John Henry Newman's Conception of the Development of Doctrine | Prof. Chad Pecknold

This lecture was given on April 18th, 2024, at University of Arizona. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events About the Speaker: Michael Wahl is Assistant Professor of Theology at Providence College. His research focuses on Catholic moral theology, Thomistic ethics, virtue theory, and moral development. His articles have been published in The Thomist, Nova et Vetera, and Philosophy, Theology, &amp; the Sciences. He lives in Providence, RI with his wife and four young children.

Source and Summit: How the Eucharist Makes Us Holy | Prof. Michael Wahl

It is possible for our moral conscience to remain in ignorance for a variety of reasons. Fr. Mike delves into the sources of errors of judgment in moral conduct and how habitual sin blinds our conscience. As we wrap up this article, Fr. Mike reminds us that a well-formed conscience sets us free and gives us the power to do what we ought. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1790-1802.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 240: Erroneous Judgment of Conscience (2024)

How do Catholics interpret Scripture? Fr. Mike breaks down the three basic principles for interpreting Scripture: attentiveness to the content and unity of the whole Bible, reading Scripture within the living Tradition of the Church, and attentiveness to the analogy of Faith. These criteria allow the Church to interpret Scripture accurately and prevents us from taking Scripture out of context. Today’s readings are CCC 109-114. 

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

Day 15: Interpreting Scripture

In this “In Brief” section of the Catechism, we review that only God has the power to create, that is, to call into existence something from nothing. God made man and the entire universe as a manifestation of his love, and he keeps the world and all of us in existence by his will. Fr. Mike discusses one of the greatest mysteries of our faith: God bringing good out of evil. He says we won’t fully understand this mystery until we are united with God in heaven. In a broken world, we are called to trust in the goodness of God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 315-324.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 45: Summary of Creation (2024)

Lead your family closer to Christ this Advent through the Jesse Tree tradition! In just 5–15 minutes a day, discover how Old Testament figures—from Adam and Eve to the prophets—point to Jesus and the Church’s sacraments. Each day features a full-color ornament, Scripture, a short reflection with questions, a prayer, and a “Dig Deeper” for older kids. Build faith and wonder together and pass on this beautiful tradition for generations.

The Jesse Tree

Part 1 of the Catechism—the first pillar—is the longest part of the four parts of the Catechism, and arguably the most foundational. Fr. Mike sits down with Jeff Cavins to discuss the big picture behind this important pillar and prepare us for the journey ahead.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

Day 3: What We Believe (Part 1 Introduction with Jeff Cavins)

We have reached the In Brief section, or nugget day, on the seventh commandment. Father Mike reiterates that the right to private property comes from our dignity as humans, and the Church has a duty to weigh in on economic or social matters where that dignity is threatened. He challenges us to ask ourselves, do we see Jesus in “the distressing disguise of the poor” and just walk by him, or do we respond to him? Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2450-2463.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 319: Summary of the Seventh Commandment (2024)

This summary of the Catechism’s teaching about the Anointing of the Sick is concise and rich. This holy anointing brings us hope and courage as we endure illness and the difficulties of old age. While we pray for healing of body and soul, this sacrament also prepares us for death. Fr. Mike ends this episode by explaining three practices of the Church that help her members prepare for death. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1526-1532. 

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 209: Summary of the Anointing of the Sick (2025)

Find peace amid the holiday rush with prayers and reflections rooted in Our Lady of Fatima’s message. Inspired by the faith of the Fatima children, Mother Teresa, John Paul II, and Fr. Andrew Apostoli, these pages guide you to quiet your heart, trust in Mary’s Immaculate Heart, and prepare for Christmas with hope and devotion. Let Advent be a time of true waiting and wonder as you draw closer to the Christ Child.

Advent with Our Lady of Fatima

This talk was given on September 12, 2022 at the University of Rochester.

For more information please visit thomisticinstitute.org.

Paul Symington is Professor of Philosophy and Director of Scholarly Excellence at Franciscan University of Steubenville. His publications include On Determining What There Is (Walter De Gruyter, 2010) and over a dozen peer reviewed articles ranging in topics from philosophy of language, metaphysics, philosophy of science and medieval philosophy. He has also given numerous paper presentations, in topics ranging from medieval metaphysics and teleology in modern science, including talks on prime matter as well as the problem of human death at University of Oxford in 2015.

Why Do I Keep Existing? A Lecture on Being | Prof. Paul Symington

The Catechism continues on with other offenses against the dignity of marriage and concludes our look at the sixth commandment. Polygamy, incest, sexual abuse, and free union are reviewed in detail. Fr. Mike highlights that these sins are grave, but God gives hope to all of us experiencing wounds or guilt. We have the opportunity to change in order to live in accordance with the Gospel. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2387-2400. 

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 312: Polygamy, Incest, and Free Union

This lecture was given on April 9th, 2024, at Cornell University. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at <a href="https://thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events" target="_blank">thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events</a> About the Speaker: Professor Eitel is Associate Professor of Theology at the University of Dallas. Before joining the UD faculty in 2023, he taught for eight years at Yale University, where he held appointments in the Divinity School, the Program in Medieval Studies, and the Humanities Program. His research and teaching bring topics in the history of Christian theology to bear on questions of fundamental moral concern. A specialist in medieval scholasticism, his particular research interests span topics in doctrinal and moral theology, especially in the works of Thomas Aquinas and his contemporaries.

Love: Commander of the Virtues | Prof. Adam Eitel

Life is full of decisions. Each day, an individual makes countless decisions both big and small. So, is there a right way to make decisions? How can a person always be sure to make the right decision? Jeff Cavins offers his insight into good decision making by pulling from his experience and his knowledge of both Scripture and the Church’s teachings.

Snippet from the Show 
Wise decision-making involves aligning with God’s will: “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).

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I Need to Make a Decision

The Sacraments in General: Character and Institution/Causation | Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P.

Father explores his disdain for the Internet and Internet technology in the context of his use and publicity on the Internet. How can he do both? Why does he dislike it? 🟣 Join Us on Locals (before we get banned on YT): <a href= "https://mattfradd.locals.com/">https://mattfradd.locals.com/</a> 📖 Fr. Pine's Book: <a href= "https://bit.ly/3lEsP8F">https://bit.ly/3lEsP8F</a> 🖥️ Website: <a href= "https://pintswithaquinas.com/">https://pintswithaquinas.com/</a> 🟢 Rumble: <a href= "https://rumble.com/c/pintswithaquinas">https://rumble.com/c/pintswithaquinas</a> 👕 Merch: <a href= "https://shop.pintswithaquinas.com">https://shop.pintswithaquinas.com</a> 🚫 FREE 21 Day Detox From Porn Course: <a href= "https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> 🔵 Facebook: <a href= "https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd">https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd</a> 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd

Can the Internet be Saved? | Fr. Gregory Pine, O.P.

Learn how to turn every Confession into an encounter with God’s boundless mercy. These pages reveal practical ways to overcome reluctance, make better examinations of conscience, and carry the graces of Reconciliation into daily life. Discover what true repentance looks like, how to conquer shame, and how sorrow for sin deepens compassion for others. Simple, profound wisdom will help you confess well, fight sin more bravely, and grow in love for God.

How to Make a Good Confession

Prof. Jonathan Buttaci, examines the idea of the soul from a biological perspective, drawing on Aristotle's comprehensive treatment of the soul as a principle of life for all living things. He challenges the modern scientific view, exemplified by James Watson's statement that life is simply a matter of chemistry, and instead suggests that the soul can be understood as a non-magical, non-mystical concept within biology. This lecture was given on April 10th, 2023, at Indiana University. For more information on upcoming events, please visit our website: https://thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events Speaker Bio:

Dr. Jonathan Buttaci is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at The Catholic University of America. He came to CUA in 2016 after completing his Ph.D. at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Buttaci’s research focuses on accounts of mind and the soul in ancient Greek thought, in particular Aristotle’s theory of knowledge, learning, and scientific discovery. He is also interested more generally in the interplay between ancient Greek science, philosophy, and literature.

Why Would a Biologist Believe in the Soul? | Professor Jonathan Buttaci

In this episode we chat with Dr. Andrew Swafford, associate professor of theology at Benedictine College. We talk about encountering the Person of Jesus in scripture and the power of connecting the head and the heart. We also discuss the beauty of Scripture, how to connect the dots between the old and the new, and how Scripture is always relevant to every time and culture. Dr. Andrew Swafford’s one thing - his wife, Sarah Dr. Andrew Swafford’s other one thing - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Glories-Divine-Grace-Exhortation-Sanctifying/dp/0895555093"> The Glories of Divine Gracie - Fr. Matthias Scheeben</a> Heather’s one thing - <a href= "https://open.spotify.com/album/139oeKIHvY1xxEt8sIs8md"> Victory - Jay and Jo</a> Michelle’s one thing - <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Impact-God-Soundings-John-Cross/dp/0340612576/ref=as_li_ss_tl?crid=19OTEWX7ZS2PR&dchild=1&keywords=iain+matthews+book&qid=1600196767&sprefix=iain+matthew,aps,258&sr=8-1&linkCode=sl1&tag=greenhousec01-20&linkId=65fa63bc4184d9d90542b50b8fbcd6cc&language=en_US"> The Impact of God - Fr. Iain Matthew</a> Michelle’s other one thing - Fr. Mark Mary and Fr. Innocent CFR and their visit to Pensacola Sister Miriam’s one thing - Butternut Squash and <a href= "https://www.rachaelraymag.com/recipe/sausage-and-butternut-squash-skillet-supper"> all Fall recipes </a> Books Mentioned -  <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-8421e0fc?listId=1X70B67BEVJKJ"> All the titles mentioned by Dr. Swafford can be found online here.</a>   Here are the three recommendations to get your started: <ol> <li>Mystery of the Kingdom - Dr. Edward Sri</li> <li>God with us - Dr. Edward Sri</li> <li>A Father Who Keeps His Promises - Scott Hahn</li> </ol> You can also receive 20% off any studies in the Hebrews collection by Dr. Andrew Swafford through Ascension Press with the code Abide20. <a href= "https://tinyurl.com/yx9zylz5.">Check out all Hebrews has to offer!</a>  Discussion questions:     <ol> <li style="font-weight: 400;">What struck you from this week’s episode?</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">What has been your experience with the Holy Scriptures? Did you grow up reading the Bible often, have you just recently discovered the living Word of God or are you still not sure where to begin?</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Dr. Swafford mentioned the threat of Catholic Deism - where faith becomes about an idea and not about a person. How have the scriptures fostered your relationship with the person of Jesus?</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Dr. Swafford said “theology is really about intellectual discipleship.” How do/can your bible studies, discussion groups and personal study create disciples around you? </li> </ol> Journal Questions: <ol> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Dr. Swafford’s journey began with an intentional mentorship from Dr. Sri. Pray about who God is inviting you to intentionally disciple and what would that look like.</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Dr. Swafford encouraged us to start small. What’s one small daily scripture exercise you can commit to this week?</li> <li style="font-weight: 400;">Take some time to reflect on your favorite scripture verse or one that has impacted your life. Ask the Holy Spirit how God wants to speak this word over your life in a new way. </li> </ol> Quote to Ponder - “Learn the Heart of God from the Word of God.” - Pope St. Gregory  Scripture for Lectio Divina - Joshua 1:8 “This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to act in accordance with all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall be successful.”

S08 Episode 07: Encountering Jesus & The Church in Scripture

Fr. Mike explores God’s role as “Creator” and the vital importance of understanding God as the Creator of all things: heaven and earth, seen and unseen. Together, we examine the questions of our origins, such as “Where do we come from?” and “Where are we going?” Fr. Mike emphasizes that man is created for a purpose because of the great and eternal love our Father in heaven has for every one of us. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 279-284.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 40: God Is the Creator (2025)

“God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27). The Catechism teaches us about man’s God-given dignity and unique place in creation. Fr. Mike explains the unity that exists between all persons, and how this necessitates a “law of human solidarity and charity.” Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 355-361.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

Day 50: The Dignity of Man

Elisabeth Leseur’s remarkable witness shows how quiet perseverance, deep love, and faithful prayer can transform even the hardest of hearts. Through her diary and writings, discover how she turned her husband’s ridicule into opportunities for grace, and how her hidden sacrifices eventually brought him to the Faith — and even to the priesthood. Let her example guide you to hope, patience, and holiness, especially if you carry the cross of loving someone far from God.