Catholic Review Radio

July 5, 2026 | The Catholic Roots of the USA

WELCOME TO SEASON 7 OF CATHOLIC REVIEW RADIO Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a fascinating look at the often-overlooked Catholic roots of the nation on Catholic Review Radio. Host Rita Bittner speaks with Dr. Dennis Castillo, professor of Church history at St. Mary’s Seminary, to explore how a small but influential Catholic community helped shape the founding of the United States. From the remarkable story of Charles Carroll – the only Catholic signer of the Declaration of Independence – to the quest for religious freedom that inspired many Catholics to support independence, this episode uncovers key contributions that defy their minority status at the time. Castillo also highlights the pivotal role of Maryland, early struggles against anti-Catholic laws, and the establishment of the first U.S. diocese in Baltimore under Bishop John Carroll. The conversation covers surprising moments of Catholic influence, including how missionary leadership in the Midwest helped secure American territory. The podcast offers rich historical insight into faith, freedom, and the fragile beginnings of a nation and a summary of U.S. history, Catholic heritage and the enduring meaning of independence. Host: Rita Buettner Guest: Dr. Dennis Castillo, St. Mary's Seminary Producer: Christopher Gunty Copyright © 2026, Catholic Review Media

June 28, 2026 | Covering the Vatican with Catholic News Service Rome Bureau

Covering the Vatican and the popes full time brings opportunities to share information about the Church with readers all around the world. Carol Glatz, Rome Bureau chief for Catholic News Service, has been working in that field for more than two decades, covering four popes. In this episode of Catholic Review radio, Glatz sat down with Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty for a wide-ranging discussion on the joys and hardships of covering such an important news beat. She shares insights on Pope Leo’s first year and how he differs from previous popes. Her trips with popes have taken her all around the world, but she recalls one of the most memorable incidents when Pope Benedict XVI had a spider crawling on him. Glatz also talks about a new project for CNS Rome, a podcast available in audio and video, called Vatican Access, and about plans for what’s next for the bureau. Host: Christopher Gunty Guest: Carol Glatz Video: Mitzy Deras Producer: Christopher Gunty Copyright © 2026 Catholic Review Media

June 21, 2026 | From Father to Son

On Father's Day, Rita Buettner speaks with Deacon Keith Chase, a permanent deacon at Our Lady of the Fields in Millersville, and his son, Deacon Andrew Chase, a transitional deacon preparing for priestly ordination in 2027. The father and son reflect on their faith journeys, from Deacon Keith’s unexpected call to the diaconate while praying the rosary to his son's experience growing up in a family deeply rooted in parish service. They share memories of parish life, the influence of a parent’s witness and the unique bond created by serving the Church in different vocations. The conversation explores discernment, family support and the joy of watching God’s call unfold across generations. Host: Rita Buettner Guests: Deacon Keith Chase and Deacon Andrew Chase News Break: George Matysek Jr. Producer: George Matysek Jr. Copyright © 2026, Catholic Review Media

June 14, 2026 | Source of All Hope accompanies people experiencing homelessness on Baltimore streets

An outreach program at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore is changing lives on city streets. George Matysek speaks with two missionaries from Source of All Hope — Erin Kelter and seminarian Daniel Otto — about their work accompanying people experiencing homelessness. Rather than acting as social workers, they build genuine friendships, offering presence, prayer and the simple dignity of being seen and known by name. Later, Father Brendan Fitzgerald, rector of the Baltimore Basilica, joins the conversation to discuss the program's growth, including a $2 million grant and interest from other dioceses hoping to replicate the model. Father Fitzgerald explains what makes Source of All Hope distinctive: it is rooted in a parish, making it a mission for the whole community. Host: George P. Matysek Jr. Guests: Erin Kelter, Daniel Otto, Father Brendan Fitzgerald News Report: Kevin J. Parks Producer: George P. Matysek Jr. Copyright © 2026, Catholic Review Media

June 7, 2026 | Nurturing faith in young hearts

Host Rita Buettner speaks with Christopher Wesley, executive director of Marathon Youth Ministry, about faith, family and raising the next generation of Catholics. Drawing on more than two decades of youth ministry experience, Wesley discusses how parishes can help young people find belonging, purpose and identity, while encouraging parents to build strong faith-centered communities around their families. Wesley also shares insights on the vital role fathers and other trusted adults play in nurturing faith, the challenges facing lay ministers and the importance of creating welcoming parishes for young people. Host: Rita Buettner Guest: Christopher Wesley, Marathon Youth Ministry News Anchor: Kevin J. Parks Producer: George Matysek Jr.