Sed Contra: A Podcast of Catholic Theology

A lively debate on whether foot washing could be a sacrament and why it traditionally is not. A dive into how sacraments were defined historically and why seven became standard. A discussion of methods for interpreting Scripture, from historical-critical tools to canonical and Aquinian approaches. Notes on Eastern and Assyrian liturgical variations and how baptismal imagery relates to Jesus washing feet.

A lively debate on whether magnanimity and humility can coexist and how Aquinas locates humility as right self-recognition. A clear distinction between intellectus and mens, plus a contrast of passive understanding with discursive reason. A frank discussion of original sin, its justice, and theological responses for unbaptized infants. Notes on academic life and building small Catholic intellectual communities.

Christopher Owens, liturgical historian and CEO of the Veterum Sapientia Institute, and Matthew Minerd, Byzantine seminary professor, discuss how prayer texts and rites shape belief. They trace historical cases, translation debates, Eucharistic centrality, and how lectionaries and missals propose theology to the faithful. They recommend readings and urge praying with the church to see how liturgy frames theological imagination.

They ask whether the Church should endorse a single theological school and unpack why multiple schools persist. They wrestle with animal intelligence and how Thomistic views of the soul respond to new science. They swap favorite nonfiction reads, debate whether 'niceness' equals virtue, and reflect on deliberation, reflexivity, and what truly distinguishes human love from animal affection.

They debate whether humans could exist without an eternal soul and whether pre-human bodies lacked rational souls. Aristotelian matter and form, gradations of being, and liminal creatures come up. They contrast personhood and human nature, examine animals' cognitive limits, and question whether arguments from authority are the strongest in theology.

Is there a distinction between male and female souls? The hosts dive into distributism, its origins, and real-world applications. They humorously debate which country's philosophers would form the best soccer team. Medieval philosophy is showcased by crafting an all-star lineup, highlighting Aquinas's unmatched influence. The discussion also explores how bodily differences shape experiences but not souls, promoting dignity across genders. Insights flow as they tackle how the Church guides economic principles without dictating policy.

Dr. Joey Belleza, an expert in medieval theology, and Fr. Harrison Ayre, a Catholic priest researching Ratzinger’s theology, dive deep into Pope Benedict XVI’s engagement with St. Bonaventure. They explore Ratzinger’s methodological approach and highlight how medieval revelation is viewed as an act rather than mere propositions. The duo also discusses the intricate relationship between Protestant debates and Catholic theology, while examining Bonaventure’s insights on mystical union and divine revelation. Their insightful analysis bridges historical context with modern theological questions.

The hosts tackle intriguing theological questions, exploring the epic battle between St. Michael and Lucifer without physical forms. They dive into whether God has emotions, discussing divine impassibility and the consequences of sacrilege against the Eucharist. Insights into Christ's human sorrow and the relationship between God's immutable love and mercy are shared. They also unravel the complexities of angelic intellect and final choices, highlighting pride's role in Lucifer's rebellion. Expect a blend of deep theology and relatable anecdotes!

Dr. Joey Belleza, a theologian from Mount St. Mary's Seminary, joins to explore the meaning of the Dies Irae and its controversial removal from the requiem Mass. They discuss personal memories associated with the hymn, its medieval origins, and the nuanced views of Ratzinger on eschatology. Belleza highlights how the text fosters hope despite its themes of judgment. The hosts contemplate the relevance of the Dies Irae in contemporary liturgy and its role in promoting true hope and conversion.

Father John Wilson is a Priest of the Archdiocese of New York and a theology doctoral candidate, while Molly Egglesrud is a teaching fellow in moral theology. They explore Aquinas’s view of faith, stressing its nuanced, reflective nature that contrasts with mere opinion. The discussion delves into the distinction between living and 'dead' faith, highlighting the vital role of the will and charity in genuine belief. They also unpack the articles of faith, examining their interconnectedness and the importance of public revelation in stabilizing faith.