

Verso l'Alto
Verso l'Alto
Welcome to Verso l'Alto, Faith on the Field Podcast. Join Fr. Burke Masters, priest of the Diocese of Joliet and chaplain to the Chicago Cubs and Bishop James Wall of the Diocese of Gallup, while they explore the Catholic Faith through Scripture, the saints, and the thrill of sports.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 21, 2026 • 53min
Episode 16: Come, Follow Me
Bishop Wall, Fr. Burke, and Mike Sweeney talk football, saying Mass for the L.A. Rams, and Jesus' calling of the Apostles.

Jan 14, 2026 • 45min
Behold the Lamb, and Big Wins
The hosts dive into college football finals, analyzing thrilling matchups and coaching impacts. Mike shares a memorable confrontation with Roger Clemens, and they relive the Bears-Packers rivalry. They discuss sportsmanship and the importance of postgame handshakes, while reflecting on Aaron Rodgers' gentle goodbyes. The conversation weaves between playoff picks, highlighting team strengths and strategies. Additionally, they explore the meaning of Ordinary Time and John the Baptist's humility, urging listeners to embrace sacrificial love and a deeper faith.

Jan 7, 2026 • 55min
Baptism, Brackets, and Blessings
The hosts dive into thrilling college football playoff predictions, analyzing surprising upsets like Ohio State's loss. They celebrate Fernando Mendoza's inspiring faith after his Heisman win. Transitioning to the NFL, they discuss a viral priest's blessing and key coaching decisions. Engaging debates about playoff picks lead to insights on coaching culture and team dynamics. Finally, they explore the significance of Jesus' baptism, emphasizing personal encounters with God's love and practical family prayer tips.

Dec 31, 2025 • 49min
Mary, Magi and Matchups
Join captivating discussions on the significance of Mary as the Mother of God, exploring her role in salvation history. The hosts dive into their holiday reflections, sharing touching family memories and Advent traditions. Sports insights include a lively college football playoff preview, with predictions for teams like Ohio State and Oregon. They also highlight the spiritual expressions of athletes. Finally, practical advice on evangelizing to non-Catholics offers a meaningful twist to the conversation.

Dec 24, 2025 • 45min
Christmas Cheer and Championship Dreams
Bishop Wall, Fr. Burke, and Mike Sweeney discuss shakeups in the NFL and the significance of the Holy Family.

Dec 17, 2025 • 42min
Rivers' Return, Mendoza's Mastery, and Advent's Radiant Joy
The hosts dive into Philip Rivers' NFL return, highlighting his humility and faith. They share emotional reactions to his inspiring postgame moments and how he impacts youth through coaching. The discussion shifts to Fernando Mendoza's Heisman win and his heartfelt profession of faith. With updates on the NFL and reflections on Advent readings, the hosts encourage parents to engage in their children's spiritual formation. The conversation beautifully blends sports and faith, celebrating the joy of the season and the power of personal witness.

Dec 11, 2025 • 45min
(Re-recorded) Rejoicing, Rivers, and the Road to the Playoffs
The hosts celebrate Philip Rivers' unexpected return to the NFL, diving into his leadership and playing style. They discuss Indiana's rise in college football, spotlighting Fernando Mendoza's impactful faith. A lively debate unfolds over Notre Dame's playoff exclusion and conference fit. Plus, personal stories about humility and a look at the positive faith culture in baseball. The conversation wraps with reflections on John the Baptist's role and the joy of Gaudete Sunday, inspiring listeners to embrace renewal and authenticity.

Dec 3, 2025 • 51min
Coaching Carousel and Advent Countdown
Bishop Wall, Fr. Masters, and Mike Sweeney give their thoughts on college football transfers and the significance of John the Baptist and the Immaculate Conception.

Nov 26, 2025 • 52min
The Already & Not Yet Playbook
Bishop Wall, Fr. Masters, and Mike Sweeney discuss the Cowboys v. Eagles game, Thanksgiving, and the upcoming Advent season.

Nov 19, 2025 • 49min
Fathers Worshiping the True King
Bishop Wall and Fr. Masters are joined by former KC Royals player Mike Sweeney to discuss fatherhood, the current NFL season, and Christ as "King of the Universe".Links:John Paul II Healing Center: https://jpiihealingcenter.org/teamNunc Coepi, "Begin Again": https://www.omvusa.org/bruno-lanteri/life-legacy/begin-again/from-begin-again


