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! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1987412/open_sms] This episode dives deep into a controversial topic that's increasingly dividing Catholic circles: Is it acceptable to criticize post-conciliar popes? We examine how modern Church leaders often seem reluctant to boldly proclaim traditional Catholic teachings, instead offering apologies for historical Church actions like the Crusades and Inquisition. The cultural divide between cradle Catholics and converts becomes evident as we discuss how differently they perceive papal criticism. Many who entered the Church under Pope Francis's pontificate struggle with the concept that one can question certain papal statements while remaining faithful to the Church herself. This dynamic creates fascinating tensions in how Catholics understand their relationship with Church authority. Between theological discussions, we explore broader cultural phenomena that reflect similar themes of institutional weakness. From a woman wanting to divorce her "perfect" husband because she "can't find herself," to fitness influencer Joey Swoll's groveling apology for commemorating Hulk Hogan, we witness how quickly people abandon reasonable positions when faced with criticism or emotional discomfort. Whether examining Cardinal Tagle leading jean-clad influencers in prayer at the Vatican or the differences between traditional and progressive Catholic approaches, this episode provides a thoughtful, nuanced exploration of how to remain faithful while engaging critically with Church leadership. Join us as we navigate the delicate balance between respectful obedience and necessary critique in today's complex Catholic landscape. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/abbateanthony?locale.x=en_US] Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

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! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1987412/open_sms] Civilization stands at a precipice. The signs are unmistakable – devalued currency, collapsing birthrates, cultural decay, and the fading remnants of once-Christian institutions. But what does this mean for faithful Catholics trying to navigate these turbulent times? Theo Howard of the Two Cities podcast joins us for a profound conversation about the coming collapse of Western civilization and the Catholic response. Rather than another doomer analysis, this discussion offers a roadmap for hope and renewal through what Howard calls "the Little Way of Christendom" – building parallel structures that can weather the storm while preserving authentic faith. We explore how the modern world isn't merely post-Christian but apostate – having received divine grace and deliberately rejected it – making our sins far more grievous than those of pre-Christian pagans. Howard compellingly argues that we're living through the Passion of the Church, a mysterious parallel to Christ's own suffering that will ultimately lead to resurrection. The conversation takes us through the failures of political solutions, including the false promise of electoral politics that functions as a "counterfeit liturgical calendar," distracting Catholics from living according to the Church's authentic rhythms. We examine how COVID served as a warning and test of faith, separating those willing to sacrifice for principle from those who surrendered for convenience. Most importantly, we discuss practical steps for building resilient Catholic communities – from agriculture to education to economic networks – that can function outside corrupted systems. This isn't about withdrawal but about creating the seeds of a renewed Christendom that will flourish after the inevitable chastisement runs its course. For anyone concerned about the future of faith and civilization, this conversation offers not just analysis but a genuinely Catholic path forward. Listen now and discover how small, faithful communities built on tradition can become the foundation for rebirth in a post-collapse world. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/abbateanthony?locale.x=en_US] Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

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! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1987412/open_sms] Have you ever wondered what happened after the Book of Acts closes? The story of Christianity's explosive growth through the ancient world might be the most thrilling chapter in Church history you've never fully explored. Joshua Charles, founder of Eternal Christendom, takes us on a captivating journey through the grand narrative of salvation history, revealing how Greek philosophy, Roman order, and Hebrew revelation converged at the perfect moment for Christ's arrival. This isn't just ancient history—it's the story we're still living today. Discover how the early Church Fathers understood prophecy unfolding before their eyes as pagan temples fell and Christian altars rose across the empire. Learn why St. Thomas Aquinas identified "obedience to the Roman Church" as the mysterious restrainer mentioned in Scripture, and why this matters for our current moment. The conversation ventures into fascinating territory as Joshua addresses the recurring biblical motif of older and younger brothers—from Cain and Abel to Judaism and Christianity—and how this ancient rivalry appears headed toward an eschatological climax. What role will each "brother" play in the end times? The answers might surprise you. For those feeling anxious about world events, Joshua offers a perspective that's both sobering and hopeful: "When things appear worst here on earth, they're actually getting closer to the greatest triumph of all time." This understanding helps Catholics maintain peace amid turmoil, focusing on loving those directly before us rather than being consumed by distant events beyond our control. Support Eternal Christendom's mission of making the Church Fathers accessible to all at eternalchristendom.com, where over 1.3 million words of Catholic wisdom await you completely free. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/abbateanthony?locale.x=en_US] Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

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! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1987412/open_sms] When evangelical leader Charlie Kirk declared "the antidote to feminism is our Lady," Catholics across social media took notice. His surprising admission that "we as Protestants and Evangelicals under-venerate Mary" has sparked intense conversation about whether the prominent conservative commentator might be on a path toward Rome. The statement represents a significant theological shift for Kirk, who went on to praise Mary as "a phenomenal example and a counter to so much of the toxicity of feminism in the modern era." While careful not to overstate what's happening, we examine this moment through a Catholic lens, exploring how devotion to Mary has historically led many Protestant thinkers toward Catholic teaching. Reports that Kirk has been attending weekday Mass with his wife add an intriguing dimension to the discussion. We also revisit Michael Knowles' earlier conversation with Kirk about Catholicism, analyzing the challenges of interfaith dialogue when trying to balance friendship with proclamation of Catholic truth. This leads us to reflect on our own deep devotion to Our Lady and why Mary holds such transformative power in drawing people to the fullness of faith. As one of us admits, "I'm a mama's boy when it comes to Our Lady"—a sentiment that resonates with many converts who found their way to Catholicism through growing appreciation for the Mother of God. Whether Kirk's comments represent genuine theological exploration or merely an attempt to connect with his Catholic audience remains to be seen. But history suggests that once someone begins to soften their heart toward Mary, a deeper journey often follows. Join us for this fascinating analysis of a potentially pivotal moment in contemporary Christian dialogue. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/abbateanthony?locale.x=en_US] Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon

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! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1987412/open_sms] The Catholic internet was shaken by revelations about Voice of Reason, a rising Catholic apologist who allegedly engaged in a decade-long pattern of manipulating vulnerable women while presenting himself as a defender of the faith. This raw, unfiltered conversation dives deep into the spiritual dangers of leading a double life and the devastating consequences when those in positions of Catholic influence betray the trust placed in them. We examine how Voice of Reason allegedly used his role as a catechist to obtain contact information from young women, including a disturbing claim of grooming a minor. The conversation tackles difficult questions: What responsibility do Catholic communities have when confronted with such behavior? How should we balance mercy with accountability? And what guardrails should exist to prevent those with serious moral failings from continuing in public ministry? Beyond the individual case, we explore broader spiritual lessons about the damaging effects of sins against chastity. "The devil rejoices the most in carnal sins because they are the easiest to trick men into and the hardest to draw men away from," notes Christian, highlighting how St. Thomas Aquinas warned that lust particularly wounds one's rationality and spiritual life. This leads to a compelling discussion about how many Catholics today treat confession as a "revolving door" without genuine commitment to change. Parents will find valuable insights about protecting children in the digital age, where "every text conversation is a near occasion of sin for young people." The hosts emphasize practical strategies for teaching youth about online safety and the permanent nature of digital communications. "Nothing you do online is ever private," Anthony warns, suggesting parents use this scandal as a teaching moment. We invite you to join this crucial conversation about maintaining authentic Catholic witness in a digital world full of temptations. Subscribe, share with those who might benefit from these difficult but necessary discussions, and remember that true Catholic faith demands not just knowledge but transformation. Support the show [https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/abbateanthony?locale.x=en_US] Sponsored by Recusant Cellars, an unapologetically Catholic and pro-life winery from Washington state. Use code BASED at checkout for 10% off! https://recusantcellars.com/ ******************************************************** Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKsxnv80ByFV4OGvt_kImjQ?sub_confirmation=1 https://www.avoidingbabylon.com Locals Community: https://avoidingbabylon.locals.com RSS Feed for Podcast Apps: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1987412.rss Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/AvoidingBabylon