Theology for the Unwanted

The Soft Divorce: Where Canon Law and Theology Part Ways

Dan and Jon explore the growing tension between canon law and moral theology, focusing on marriage, annulments, and the church’s pastoral response. They discuss Father Ginter Dzierzon’s critique, the history of moral manuals, and how legalistic approaches can leave people feeling judged or excluded. Using vivid analogies—from traffic laws to Eastern Orthodox oikonomia—the hosts consider alternatives that prioritize mercy, conscience, and accompaniment while still honoring the law’s purpose: the salvation and care of souls.

Theology Textbook Trap: What We Miss About True Catholic Freedom

Welcome to an episode of Theology for the Unwanted where hosts Dan and Jon explore what true freedom means in Catholic life—beyond neat ‘vocation’ buckets. They discuss single holiness, LGBTQ+ Catholics, mercy versus formulas, dangers of clericalism, and practical ways the Church can walk with people in messy, real-life situations, mixing theology with candid personal stories and pastoral insights.

8-Pack Abs & Incense: Muscular Catholicism and Sacred Tradition

Hosts Dan and Jon welcome Meg and Nicole of Catholic Atonement Media to explore why many Gen Z Catholics are drawn to traditional practices, how that compares to Gen X and millennials, and what the Church might be missing about people who left (LGBT issues, abuse, women, single parents) or are returning. The conversation covers beauty in worship, veiling and Latin Mass, confession and pastoral care, the influence of online influencers and muscular Christianity, and practical takeaways: better catechesis, stronger community, and more empathetic, intergenerational dialogue.

The 24-Hour Mindset Killing Your Holy Week, Bishop Bonny’s slams the Vatican & the Day of Return

Lent ends Holy Thursday, and what Catholics in earlier centuries thought of as the "Day of Return" is officially here! Join Dan and Jon for a special Holy Thursday episode of Theology for the Unwanted as they dive into the "untold stories" of Easter theology and why the Resurrection is a party that never stopped. We’re breaking down the latest Vatican shake-up under Pope Leo and the groundbreaking news of Bishop Bonny’s plan to ordain married priests in 2028. From the "holy mucus" of Padre Pio’s handkerchief to why sin resembles a pile of scattered Ikea furniture, this episode explores a critical realist framework of restoration over legalism. If you’ve ever felt pushed away by your parish or "unwanted" by the institution, this is your invitation to rediscover a faith that dissolves boundaries and invites everyone back to the table—no matter how bad you are at parallel parking.

Unbind Him. The Lazarus Closet and the Greek Words Your Parish Never Told You

Hosts Dan and Jon close out Lent with theologian Father Martin Lintner, exploring shame, identity, and belonging in the Church. They discuss Pope Leo’s push for transparency in new ecclesial movements, the Lazarus story as a metaphor for coming out, and Jesus’ command to "untie him" as a call to free people from shame. The episode also examines romance in theology, pastoral challenges around divorce and remarriage, and the experiences of LGBTQ Catholics. The hosts encourage listeners to share their stories and reflect on a more compassionate, welcoming Church.