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!Have you noticed the seismic shift happening in Catholic media? The comfortable patterns established during the Francis papacy have been utterly disrupted by Pope Leo's different leadership style, leaving content creators scrambling to adapt.For ten years, Francis provided a steady stream of controversial statements and actions that united conservative and traditional Catholics in shared concern. As Anthony observes, "Francis made normal Novus Ordo conservative Catholics feel like they had more in common with trads than they did with the Pope." This environment spawned an entire industry of Catholic media outlets that thrived on daily papal headlines.Enter Pope Leo, who speaks in what Anthony calls "squishy platitudes that allow everyone to hear what they want." This dramatic change has exposed the unsustainable nature of outrage-driven content. We're witnessing former allies taking shots at each other not because they disagree on substance, but because they're struggling to find new approaches in this changed landscape.Christian challenges fellow Catholic content creators to examine their mission: "The call of the Catholic is to take over the world, is to say that Christ has died, Christ has risen, Christ is coming again." He argues that many talented people in Catholic media have been wasting their gifts on sensationalizing papal news rather than creating content that advances Christ's kingdom.The conversation extends beyond just traditional Catholic circles, touching on how liberal Catholic media outlets like "Where Peter Is" are similarly affected. Both hosts advocate for a return to substance over sensation, relationship-building over viral moments, and reconciliation between Catholic media figures who found temporary unity under Francis.Whether you're a content creator yourself or simply a consumer of Catholic media, this episode offers crucial insights into the changing dynamics of faith communication in the digital age. How will Catholic media evolve in the Pope Leo era? What strategies will prove sustainable? Join us as we explore 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!Pope Leo XIV's first major interview since his historic election as the first American pontiff raises more questions than it answers. Released through veteran Vatican correspondent John Allen Jr.'s Crux media platform (albeit with surprisingly poor production quality), the conversation offers fascinating insights into Leo's vision for his papacy.Leo strikes a delicate balance throughout the interview, emphasizing his desire to reduce polarization while hopefully upholding Catholic teaching. "I'm trying not to continue to polarize," he states plainly, acknowledging the tensions that have characterized recent years in Catholic life. This approach becomes particularly evident when addressing hot-button issues like LGBT concerns and liturgical preferences.Perhaps most anticipated by many Catholics was Leo's discussion of the Traditional Latin Mass, which had faced restrictions under Pope Francis. Significantly, he mentions upcoming opportunities to meet with advocates for the Tridentine rite, signaling an openness to dialogue that many felt was missing under the previous papacy.What emerges is a portrait of a pontiff attempting to be a bridge-builder during extraordinarily polarized times – recognizing that the Catholic Church, like society at large, stands at a precarious crossroads. Leo appears keenly aware of his challenging position, seeking to prevent further fragmentation within Catholicism while hopefully maintaining the Church's distinctive voice in a rapidly changing 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 assassination of Charlie Kirk has shattered America's political landscape, leaving many wondering how to process the tragedy and what comes next. As our nation grapples with this shocking act of violence, the most revealing aspect isn't just who pulled the trigger—it's how half the country responded.While grief and outrage have united many conservatives, disturbing celebrations from certain corners of the political left expose the dangerous division at America's core. Can a nation survive when political opponents see each other not just as wrong, but as enemies deserving elimination? This question looms over every aspect of this tragedy.The fog of conflicting narratives exemplifies what military strategists call "fifth generation warfare"—a battle for information that creates such confusion that citizens become paralyzed, unable to determine what's true. "You don't know what to believe, so you sit there and don't act," as one host explains. "You don't unite with the people you should unite with. You don't fight against the people you should fight against." This information chaos serves those who benefit from a fractured, inactive populace.Equally concerning is how some conservative figures have responded by adopting progressive frameworks they once opposed. When ex-Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi declared "There's free speech and then there's hate speech," she undermined long-standing conservative principles—the same principles that protected religious liberty in cases like the famous wedding cake controversy. This inconsistency suggests a troubling opportunism that could backfire dramatically when political winds shift.As Catholics and people of faith navigate this tragedy, we face profound questions about balancing free expression with moral imperatives. While absolute free speech may not align with traditional Catholic teaching, defining boundaries requires wisdom to avoid partisan traps that ultimately harm everyone.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 middle children of history, man, no purpose or place. We have no great war, no great depression. Our great war is a spiritual war." These opening words set the tone for a profound conversation about navigating our rapidly changing cultural landscape.In this deeply relevant episode, we're joined by George from Chivalry Guild to discuss how recent political violence has signaled a fundamental shift in American society. The conversation opens with a sobering reflection: we've crossed a precipice from which there's no return. The America many of us grew up in no longer exists, and our children face a harder future than we did.George offers invaluable insights into reclaiming authentic Christian masculinity in troubled times. Drawing from Aquinas and CS Lewis, he challenges the misconception that meekness equals weakness, instead revealing it as "strength under control"—the virtue that allows righteous anger while maintaining good judgment. This framework provides a path for responding to injustice without surrendering to either rage or apathy.The discussion turns practical as we explore building resilient communities. We emphasize developing your "fire team"—three to four dependable people who will answer your call at 3am without question. These local, tangible relationships form the foundation of resilience when institutions fail. We cover church security considerations, personal protection strategies, and the importance of getting involved in local politics where your influence can make real differences.Throughout the conversation runs a thread of hope—not naive optimism, but the grounded confidence that comes from preparation and purpose. By strengthening your family, building committed communities, and developing personal virtue, you can face uncertain times with courage rather than fear.Join us for this essential conversation about making yourself "a little bit better every day" physically, mentally, and spiritually. The highway ahead may be dangerous, but with proper preparation and strong communities, we can navigate these challenging times together.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!In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, a profound sense of disillusionment has settled over many Americans. This episode delves into the raw emotional aftermath of this tragedy through the lens of faith, examining how Erica Kirk's remarkable testimony in the face of devastating loss offers a powerful counterpoint to our sick and disordered culture.The conversation begins with a candid discussion about the problem of performative faith in Catholic social media—where many believers present one face in religious settings while living differently in their everyday lives. This compartmentalization represents a fundamental failure of authentic spiritual integration and contributes to broader cultural dysfunction. When faith becomes merely a performance rather than a transformative force, we lose the ability to witness effectively in a broken world.Erica Kirk's speech following her husband's murder emerges as a central focus—a moment of extraordinary courage where she expressed gratitude to God and unwavering commitment to continuing her husband's mission. Her response challenges us to consider how we might react in similar circumstances and reveals the transformative power of genuine faith under unimaginable pressure.The hosts argue persuasively that America stands at a breaking point where political differences have escalated into existential threats. They reject the simplistic framing of current conflicts as merely "left versus right," suggesting instead that we're engaged in a deeper spiritual battle requiring more than political solutions. The dehumanization of opponents—to the point where some celebrate political violence—signals a dangerous threshold that threatens civil society itself.Despite this darkness, the conversation turns hopefully toward signs of authentic spiritual revival, particularly among younger generations seeking meaningful faith experiences. The path forward isn't found just in politics but in the difficult work of integrating faith with every aspect of life, standing firm in truth while refusing to dehumanize those with whom we disagree.How will you respond to this cultural moment? Will you choose authentic faith over performance, dignity over dehumanization, and courage over comfort? The time has come to decide what kind of witness we'll offer a fractured world desperate for healing.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 shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk has left our nation reeling, creating a moment that transcends typical political divisions and forces us to confront the darkness that has taken root in American society.We gather to process not just the horrific event itself, but what it reveals about the spiritual state of our culture. The gruesome footage—showing a father of young children gunned down while simply speaking—has left a psychological scar on everyone who witnessed it. One young man called his father in distress, saying "I just can't get that image out of my head."This murder follows closely behind other acts of senseless violence: Catholic schoolchildren killed in Minneapolis, a Ukrainian refugee woman murdered on a subway, and the attempted assassination of former President Trump. These aren't isolated incidents but symptoms of what one guest calls "a demonic spirit" unleashed in our society. The troubling pattern suggests we're witnessing something more sinister than political disagreement—we're seeing the manifestation of genuine evil.Perhaps most poignant are the revelations about Kirk's faith journey. Despite public perception of him as simply a Protestant figure, we learn that Kirk had been attending Mass with his Catholic wife, participating in Eucharistic adoration, and reportedly going through RCIA with a priest. As one guest notes, "What Protestant does that?" This spiritual dimension makes his murder all the more tragic, cutting short not just a public career but a profound personal transformation.The discussion moves beyond simple grief to examine the philosophical foundations of our cultural conflict. "Debate and discourse require people of goodwill," one participant observes, "but you cannot debate with somebody who has no sanity to reason with, no humanity to appeal to, and who only wants to kill, destroy and take." This stark assessment challenges us to recognize that some divides cannot be bridged through dialogue alone.Join us for this profound conversation about faith, violence, and America's uncertain future. Then share your own thoughts and questions as we try to make sense of this pivotal moment together.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 tragic case of Iryna Sarutska, a Ukrainian woman brutally attacked on public transportation while absorbed in her phone, serves as a stark reminder of why situational awareness matters more than ever. In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the forgotten art of environmental vigilance – a skill that could mean the difference between life and death.The modern world has trained us to keep our heads down, eyes locked on screens, hoping to remain invisible in public spaces. But this disconnection from our surroundings has created a society of potential victims. We explore the OODA loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act), a powerful framework developed by military strategist John Boyd that can transform your ability to perceive threats before they materialize.From practical strategies for navigating public spaces to understanding the psychology of violence, we cover essential skills everyone should develop. Learn about the color code system of awareness, how to identify pre-attack indicators, and why most people freeze during violent encounters. We share insights from experts like Varg Freeborn and former military personnel on developing the mindset needed to protect yourself and loved ones.For those who carry firearms for protection, we discuss optimal carry positions, holster selection, and the importance of proper training. But situational awareness extends far beyond self-defense – it's about cultivating a heightened state of presence that enriches every aspect of life while keeping you safer.Whether you're concerned about personal safety, protecting your family, or simply becoming more present in a distraction-filled world, this episode provides actionable wisdom for navigating today's unpredictable environment. Join us to reclaim the ancient human skill of awareness and develop the vigilant mind that could save your life.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!Charles Fraune takes us on a riveting journey into the supernatural battlefield where saints actively combat demonic forces during exorcisms. Drawing from extensive research and interviews with practicing exorcists, Fraune reveals that the Catholic tradition of invoking saints during exorcism rituals is far more than ceremonial—it's a tactical spiritual maneuver with profound effects.The conversation illuminates how exorcists begin their work by praying the Litany of Saints, summoning spiritual reinforcements who manifest their presence in ways that terrify demons. While not typically visible to exorcists or possessed persons, these saints are immediately detected by demons, who react with unmistakable fear—screaming, identifying the saints with dismissive terms, and often revealing which heavenly intercessors they fear most.Particularly fascinating is the concept of "nemesis relationships" between specific saints and demons. St. Joseph, bearing the title "Terror of Demons," sometimes appears wielding his staff during exorcisms, causing demonic entities to shriek in terror with each strike against the ground. Meanwhile, saints who conquered particular vices during their earthly lives become especially powerful against demons who tempt others toward those same sins—St. Mary Magdalene, for instance, being invoked against demons of impurity.Fraune unpacks the theological understanding that demons hate humans partly because the elect will occupy the heavenly thrones forfeited by fallen angels. This explains why saints become such formidable weapons—they've already claimed these thrones of glory, making them untouchable to demonic powers. This cosmic reality shaped early Christian practice, as communities would bring saints' relics to areas dominated by pagan worship, causing oracles to fall silent and establishing new spiritual principalities under saintly protection.For those confronting darkness or seeking deeper spiritual connection, Fraune offers practical wisdom about cultivating relationships with these heavenly allies. By rediscovering devotion to saints—not merely as historical figures but as active spiritual warriors—we access a dormant power within Catholic tradition that can transform our spiritual lives and communities.Whether you're fascinated by supernatural phenomena, seeking to understand Catholic spiritual warfare practices, or simply hungry for authentic transcendence in a materialistic world, this conversation offers profound insights into the ongoing battle between light and darkness—and the glorious company of saints fighting alongside us.Purchase the book at:  https://www.amazon.com/Most-Powerful-Saints-Exorcisms-Exorcists/dp/B0DSHG1D22/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 cultural battle lines have never been more clearly drawn for Catholic families than they are today. In the wake of the Minnesota church shooting, we dive deep into the misunderstood story of Mary Grace Westman, a Catholic mother who faced impossible choices under Minnesota's radical gender laws. What many initially portrayed as parental complicity appears increasingly to be a story of a faith-filled mother cornered by a system designed to override parental authority.Minnesota's legislation, championed by Governor Tim Walz, has created what amounts to a "sanctuary state" for child gender transitions – where one parent can override another's objections simply by crossing state lines. These policies represent just one facet of the moral collapse we're witnessing across society, where adults who should protect children instead cause irreparable harm under the banner of affirmation.The conversation shifts to examine how Catholics should respond to mounting cultural hostility. We explore the false divisions between traditional and Novus Ordo Catholics, noting that when persecution comes, our enemies won't bother distinguishing between liturgical preferences. The time for circular firing squads within Catholicism has passed – we need to build coalitions of faithful Catholics prepared to weather the growing storm.Despite the darkness, glimmers of hope emerge through personal stories. From workplace evangelization to charity toward the marginalized, we discover that living authentically Catholic lives provides opportunities to reach souls searching for meaning. One particularly powerful response has been the "Protect Catholic Kids" shirt initiative, with all proceeds supporting the Annunciation Parish families affected by the shooting.How do we balance righteous anger at evil with Christ's call to love our enemies? How do we protect our families while remaining charitable? These questions demand answers from every faithful Catholic today. Join us as we navigate these treacherous waters and find a path forward rooted in both truth and love.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 intersection of faith and self-protection creates complex questions for many Catholics, especially in light of recent church shootings like the one at Annunciation Parish. Drawing from Church history, papal teachings, and the Catechism, we unpack the surprising truth: the Catholic Church has consistently upheld not just the right but often the duty of self-defense.Contrary to modern assumptions, Catholics throughout history routinely carried weapons at Mass—from swords in medieval times to firearms in frontier churches. Pope Saint John Paul II's powerful words in Evangelium Vitae affirm that "legitimate defense can be not only a right but a grave duty for someone responsible for another's life." We explore how this teaching aligns with Scripture, particularly 1 Timothy 5:8, which places responsibility on men to protect their families as a fundamental expression of faith.Beyond theology, we discuss practical considerations for parish security teams: controlling access points, training in de-escalation techniques, emergency medical preparedness, and the careful selection of appropriate equipment. For individuals, we address choosing reliable firearms, proper training, and navigating parish politics when establishing security measures.The Church's wisdom offers a balanced approach that respects both the sacredness of life and the obligation to defend it. As Catholics navigate these waters, we're called to thoughtful preparation rather than fearful reaction—recognizing that protecting those in our care is a profound expression of love in an increasingly unpredictable world.What responsibility do you bear for those in your care, and how might you fulfill this duty with both prudence and courage?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