Avoiding Babylon

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!What happens when theological roads diverge? In this thought-provoking conversation, we're joined by Aidan Mattis from The Lore Lodge, whose spiritual journey has led him from non-denominational roots through Methodism and ultimately to Anglo-Catholicism - with a controversial detour through Freemasonry along the way.Our guest articulates why he believes Protestant churches inevitably "fall away" without apostolic succession, while sharing his hesitations about embracing Roman Catholicism fully. We dive deep into church history, examining how the Catholic Church's moral steadfastness on issues like contraception stands in stark contrast to other denominations that compromised during cultural shifts. The discussion tackles thorny historical questions about papal authority, the legitimacy of various ordinations, and whether multiple "branches" of Christianity can claim authentic apostolic lineage.Perhaps most fascinating is our exploration of Freemasonry's relationship with Christianity. Our guest defends his participation in what he describes as "regular" Freemasonry, distinguishing it from the "Oriental Lodges", while acknowledging the apparent tension this creates in his religious worldview. The conversation takes unexpected turns as we consider how theological understanding shapes our perception of current events, particularly regarding evangelical dispensationalism's influence on foreign policy toward Israel.Whether you're a devout Catholic, a curious Protestant, or simply interested in how religious identity forms in our modern world, this conversation offers valuable insights into the ongoing search for authentic faith. What theological positions are worth standing firm on? When does unity matter more than doctrinal purity? And how do we navigate a religious landscape fragmented by competing claims to truth and authority? Join us as we wrestle with these questions and more.Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The veil between geopolitics and spiritual warfare grows increasingly thin as Israel launches strikes against Iran, potentially drawing the United States into yet another Middle Eastern conflict. We explore how these events align with Father Maudsley's apocalyptic framework, suggesting the modern state of Israel represents "the kingdom of Satan getting its foothold in the world" and connecting to Revelation's prophecy of the beast that returns.Diving into cultural manipulation, we examine how Hollywood has programmed generations of women through films like Titanic and Forrest Gump, portraying characters who abandon stability for fleeting passion as heroines rather than cautionary tales. This programming has real consequences, reshaping relationship expectations and undermining family formation.The financial system itself becomes a theological question as we discuss usury in modern banking. With mortgage rates climbing above 6.5%, many Catholics find themselves trapped in economic servitude, unable to fully live out Church teachings while participating in modern economic life. We consider practical ways to resist these systems while building sustainable Catholic communities.Pope Leo XIII's cautious approach to Church governance raises questions about his intentions and future decisions. Will he merely maintain Francis's appointees like Cardinal Fernandez at the Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith, or will he eventually bring back traditionalist voices like Cardinal Sarah and Cardinal Burke?Throughout these challenging times, strong parish communities remain essential. Whether Novus Ordo or Traditional Latin Mass, parishes that foster deep connections and authentic Catholic practice provide the stability needed to weather the approaching storms.Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The age-old question of how to handle crying babies at Mass sparks a deeper conversation about parenting, reverence, and the future of the Church. "If your Mass ain't crying, it's dying" captures an important truth about vibrant parishes, but where's the line between welcoming families and maintaining sacred worship?As Catholic fathers, we dive into the practical realities of bringing children to Mass—sharing our own struggles, successes, and the occasional parenting mishaps. We explore the profound difference between an infant's occasional cry and the entitled parenting that allows older children to disrupt Mass without intervention. The challenging truth is that parents have a responsibility not just to bring children to church, but to gradually teach them appropriate behavior in sacred spaces.From our personal experiences—taking restless four-year-olds to the narthex, teaching toddlers to recognize Jesus at the Consecration, and receiving both death glares and encouragement from fellow parishioners—we offer insights into this delicate balance. We acknowledge the special challenges of traveling families, single parents, and children with special needs, while emphasizing how even very young children can begin to understand the reverence due to the Eucharist.Beyond the baby debate, we tackle controversial topics including Eucharistic procession protests in Texas, the jaw-dropping story of someone willing to spend $17,000 on cat cancer treatments, and concerning trends in Catholic apologetics. We finish with hopeful signs of traditional Catholicism's resurgence among young Americans seeking substance and meaning in an increasingly rootless culture.Join us for this honest, sometimes humorous exploration of Catholic family life and the challenges of raising faithful children in today's world. Your experience matters—how do you handle the crying baby question at your parish?Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Our digital personas often reveal more about us than we intend, especially when the veil of anonymity gets pulled back. In this provocative episode, we navigate the murky waters of online identity after a Catholic Twitter personality's troubling past came to light through digital detective work.Where do we draw the ethical line between legitimate privacy concerns and accountability for our words and actions? As we examine this case study, we confront an uncomfortable truth: the mask of anonymity may hide our face from others, but not from God. "Being nameless doesn't make you bodiless," as one of our hosts pointedly observes. "It just makes your sins feel separate from you, but it's still you at the end of the day."The conversation expands into broader theological territory as we dissect a controversial video of a deaf priest consecrating the Eucharist through sign language. This unprecedented situation raises profound questions about sacramental validity that traditional Catholic theology never had to address. We also take Apple TV to task for a shockingly blasphemous scene depicting characters treating consecrated hosts as snacks – highlighting the entertainment industry's troubling comfort with disrespecting Catholic traditions.Later, we transition to relationships and marriage, offering a counterpoint to popular Catholic dating advice that often misses the mark. Our candid discussion covers the dynamics of authority in marriage, the importance of masculine leadership, and why maintaining attraction matters in long-term relationships. Whether you're navigating online Catholic spaces or seeking to build a faith-centered relationship, this episode offers both spiritual wisdom and practical guidance for living authentically in a digital age where appearances often overshadow substance.Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Fresh from his trip to Greece, Anthony shares fascinating observations about Orthodox devotional practices and the stark cultural differences he experienced compared to Rome. This frames a substantive discussion about Bishop Martin's dramatic reversal on Latin Mass restrictions in Charlotte—extending permissions that were initially set to expire. The timing of this decision, coinciding with Cardinal Roche's audience with Pope Leo, suggests significant developments in Rome's approach to traditional liturgy.We dive into the curious phenomenon of liturgical refugees—Catholics seeking authentic worship in various traditions—and the sometimes contradictory criticisms they level at each other. The irony of Eastern Catholic converts criticizing SSPX attendees highlights the complex landscape Catholics navigate in search of reverent worship. This leads to an insightful analysis of Bishop Barron's interview with Tucker Carlson, examining whether intellectual approaches to faith communication can effectively spark religious revival in a secular age.At the heart of our conversation lies a critical observation about the masculine nature of traditional worship and its power to attract young men to the faith—a dynamic often missing in contemporary parish settings where feminization has become predominant. We explore how different spiritual temperaments respond to Eastern and Western approaches, while reflecting on what effective evangelization requires in our modern context.The discussion extends beyond ecclesiastical matters to examine concerning geopolitical developments, particularly Ukraine's targeting of Russia's nuclear capabilities and the implications for global stability. We conclude with reflections on advancing AI technology and its potential threats to privacy, security, and authentic human connection.Join us for this wide-ranging conversation that connects liturgical preferences to deeper questions about Catholic identity, masculine spirituality, and navigating faith in an increasingly unstable world.Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The battle for the soul of Catholic worship intensifies as the Diocese of Charlotte announces an accelerated ban on the Traditional Latin Mass. What begins as a casual conversation between friends quickly transforms into an impassioned exploration of liturgical identity, ecclesiastical authority, and the deeper tensions dividing today's Church.When Bishop Michael Martin of Charlotte announced the Traditional Latin Mass would be prohibited in parish churches, he likely didn't anticipate the firestorm it would ignite among faithful Catholics. We dive deep into the diocese's internal memo—a document filled with contradictions that suggests Latin Mass attendees should "do penance" while simultaneously calling for unity. The irony is palpable: a bishop eliminating a form of worship because he doesn't appreciate those who prefer it, while claiming to act in the name of harmony.The conversation broadens to examine the theological underpinnings of modern liturgical conflicts. Is this merely about preferences, or does it reveal something more fundamental about competing visions of Catholicism? We explore how the implementation of Traditionis Custodes seems designed to marginalize traditionalists rather than integrate them, highlighting the curious paradox of Church leaders who claim to value diversity while actively suppressing traditional expressions of faith.Most fascinating is the timing of this decision, coming during the transition to Pope Leo XIV's pontificate. Is this an attempt to force the new pope's hand on a divisive issue? Throughout history, every heresy has represented a battle for the soul of Christendom—and perhaps today's liturgical wars are simply the latest chapter in this eternal struggle between continuity and rupture, between preserving tradition and embracing modernity.Whether you're a devoted traditionalist, a committed Novus Ordo Catholic, or simply curious about the internal dynamics of today's Church, this episode offers rare insight into one of the most consequential religious conflicts of our time. The question remains: can authentic unity ever be achieved through suppression?Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The Catholic world is experiencing a bizarre phenomenon in the early days of Pope Leo XIV's papacy - a "cafeteria papacy" where both traditionalists and progressives are selectively highlighting different aspects of the same papal statements to claim the new pontiff as their own.When Pope Leo speaks about dignity and tradition, conservative Catholics celebrate these as signs of a return to orthodoxy after the turbulent Francis years. When he mentions synodality or continuity with his predecessor, progressive Catholics claim validation for their preferred direction. This selective interpretation reveals more about the fractured state of Catholic media than about Leo himself, who has yet to make definitive statements on controversial issues. The appointment of Cardinal Raina to the John Paul II Institute perfectly exemplifies this dynamic, with both sides claiming the same action supports their narrative.Meanwhile, a disturbing trend has emerged alongside this media frenzy: AI-generated videos purporting to show Pope Leo delivering apocalyptic messages about the end times. One such fake sermon has garnered hundreds of thousands of views, with comments sections filled with viewers who believe they're hearing authentic papal teaching. As this technology rapidly advances, the challenge of discerning truth becomes increasingly difficult, potentially undermining the decentralized media landscape the internet initially fostered.For many ordinary Catholics, especially those who felt alienated during Francis' papacy, there's a natural desire to love and support their new pope. As one priest confided, "the last 12 years were pretty traumatic for all of us," revealing how even parish clergy struggled with conflicting messages from Rome. This explains the quick pivot from initial alarm to cautious optimism among traditionalists - not because of external pressure, but from a genuine Catholic instinct to give their new Holy Father a chance.How will you navigate this complex media landscape as Pope Leo's papacy unfolds? Join us as we continue to provide thoughtful analysis beyond the polarized narratives dominating Catholic discourse.Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!Have you been caught up in the wave of optimism following Pope Leo XIV's election? While there's genuine cause for celebration, this episode dives beneath the surface hype to examine the profound challenges that remain for the Catholic Church.We begin with light-hearted banter about our disappearing friend Nick who seems to have traded our show for more polished Catholic media. This sets up what unexpectedly becomes one of our most memorable segments ever - the spontaneous discovery of the Hawaiian Pigeon Bible translation. The resulting scripture readings had us (and surely you) in tears of laughter, showcasing the joy that remains at the heart of authentic Catholic community even amid serious times.When we finally compose ourselves, we tackle the substantial issues facing Pope Leo XIV. By examining Marco Rubio's thoughtful response to media attempts to politicize the papacy, we unpack how the new pope will navigate the complex relationship between Catholic teaching and geopolitical realities. The heart of our conversation explores a sobering reality: the divisions within Catholicism may be too profound to heal. Can Pope Leo possibly reconcile traditional Catholics with progressive German bishops who essentially practice a different religion? We analyze insights from Father Isaac and Father Murray about the fundamental problems in the Church that transcend any single papacy, from liturgical issues to doctrinal confusion dating back to Vatican II.What makes this episode particularly valuable is our refusal to settle for simplistic narratives. While acknowledging the relief of having a pope who doesn't seem hostile to traditionalists, we remain clear-eyed about the long journey ahead for authentic Catholic restoration. We conclude with practical reflections on how traditional practices like fasting can transform spiritual life regardless of Vatican politics.Whether you're feeling hopeful, concerned, or simply confused about the Church's direction, this episode offers both the levity of authentic fellowship and the depth of honest analysis. Share your thoughts with us - what do you believe Pope Leo needs to prioritize in these challenging times?Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The election of Pope Leo XIV—the first American pontiff—has sparked fresh hope and cautious optimism in a Catholic world still recovering from the polarizing Francis years. In this candid conversation, Rob and Anthony explore the fascinating phenomenon of how both traditionalist and progressive Catholics initially believe Leo XIV is "their guy," despite the deep divisions that remain within the Church.We dive into Vatican insider Edward Penton's revelations about the conclave's voting patterns, discovering how Cardinal Prevost emerged as the compromise candidate when votes for clearly conservative or progressive cardinals became hopelessly split. Most intriguingly, contrary to Italian media reports, Cardinal Burke never received the future Pope in his apartment—dispelling rumors of pre-conclave lobbying.The Pope's brother Lou offers unique insights into Leo's character, suggesting that while he may hold some progressive views on certain issues, he remains firmly grounded in Catholic doctrine. This middle-path approach has many Catholics feeling a tremendous sense of relief after years of hostility, with one commentator poignantly noting: "I can't even tell you what that feels like to go in and not feel like your father hates you."Through liturgical gestures like wearing traditional papal regalia and incorporating Latin, Pope Leo appears to be extending olive branches to traditionalists while maintaining continuity with Vatican II. Yet the fundamental question remains: can this approach sustain itself when eventually he must make decisions that will disappoint one side or the other?Whether you're a traditionalist hopeful for restoration or a progressive seeking continued evolution, this episode offers thoughtful perspective on what may be the slowing—but not the end—of the post-Vatican II revolution. Join us as we navigate these fascinating times in Church history and contemplate what Leo's pontificate might mean for Catholics worldwide.Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss

Want to reach out to us? Want to leave a comment or review? Want to give us a suggestion or berate Anthony? Send us a text by clicking this link!The Catholic world has been thrown into a whirlwind of emotions following the unexpected election of Pope Leo XIV. This episode captures the raw, unfiltered reactions of faithful Catholics as they process what this papacy might mean for the Church.When white smoke appeared during the fourth scrutiny—much earlier than anticipated—Catholics everywhere experienced a complex mixture of surprise, concern, and hope. We delve into the fascinating psychological and spiritual journey many traditional Catholics experienced: from initial apprehension about Cardinal Prevost's connections to progressive figures in the Church, to a growing desire to embrace and support the new Holy Father.The conversation explores profound questions about Catholic identity in turbulent times. What does proper loyalty to the Pope look like when concerns about doctrine exist? How do we balance filial devotion with fidelity to established Church teaching? When does legitimate concern become detraction, and when does silence become complicity?At the heart of the discussion is a touchingly honest admission: "I want to love the Holy Father, dude. I think we all just miss being Catholic and loving the Pope." This sentiment captures the yearning many Catholics feel after years of tension and division within the Church.The episode also examines potential "litmus tests" for Pope Leo XIV's pontificate, particularly regarding controversial aspects of his predecessor's teaching like Amoris Laetitia. While some focus on doctrinal clarity as paramount, others highlight the cultural importance of liturgical traditions like the Latin Mass in forming future generations of faithful Catholics.Throughout the conversation runs a thread of cautious hope—not naive optimism, but a genuine desire to see healing and restoration in the Church under this new shepherd. Whether you're feeling confusion, concern, or excitement about this new chapter in Catholic history, this discussion offers thoughtful perspectives to help navigate these uncharted waters.Support the showNeed seafood for Lent? Check out https://shoplobster.com/ and use code AB10 to get 10% from Maine's ONLY Catholic lobster company.Check out our new sponsor, Nic Nac, at www.nicnac.com and use code "AB25%" for 25% off of your first order!********************************************************Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1https://www.avoidingbabylon.comMerchandise:  https://avoiding-babylon-shop.fourthwall.comLocals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.comFull Premium/Locals Shows on Audio Podcast:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1987412/subscribeRSS Feed for Podcast Apps:  https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss