This week on the Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld explain why our production schedule has been a little... sporadic, shall we say. But fear not, for we have a plan!Part of that plan includes taking a short break over the next few weeks. We will be back in January with new episodes of Thinking Faith. Until then, Merry Christmas!!

Archbishop Donald Bolen shares a reflection inspired by the presepi of Naples, nativity scenes that reveal the tired, longing faces of ordinary people waiting for a Messiah. This Christmas, we are invited to notice the quiet coming of Christ into the rubble of our wounded world, to recognize God’s hidden presence in our daily lives, and to find hope, courage, and compassion this Christmas.

| Re-TF | E05 | In this special episode of Re-Thinking Faith, Archbishop Don Bolen joins the conversation for a rich reflection on Christmas, the Incarnation, and hope in a broken world. Drawing on Pope Francis’ reflections on the Nativity and his own love of nativity scenes, Archbishop Bolen explores what it truly means to believe in a God who becomes flesh.This conversation looks beyond words to the heart of incarnational faith—a faith expressed through presence, accompaniment, and walking with others, especially in times of grief, loss, and suffering. A timely and deeply pastoral reflection for Advent and Christmas, this episode invites listeners to rediscover how Christ’s birth continues to transform lives today.

| S03 E13 | Deacon Eric Gurash and guest, Michelle Braden from the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry unveil an exciting new teen sacramental preparation initiative—designed for young people who previously missed Baptism, Confirmation, or other sacraments. This episode explores how monthly gatherings, community-building, team-building, and flexible catechesis create a welcoming environment where teens can grow in faith, build relationships, and prepare for the sacraments in a supportive, belonging-focused setting.Contact Michelle Braden at mbraden@archregina.sk.ca to learn more!00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:54 Introducing Michelle Braden and the New Initiative02:11 Challenges and Reasons for the New Program04:32 Program Structure and Goals05:55 Community Building and Sacramental Preparation10:14 Parish Involvement and Mentorship17:31 Call for Volunteers and Conclusion17:44 Introduction to the New Program18:03 Monthly Meetings and Source Event Integration19:30 Initial Sessions and Getting to Know Each Other20:52 Building Community and Fun Activities21:39 Importance of Personal Connections23:44 Flexibility and Adapting to Group Dynamics29:19 Encouraging Participation and Open Invitation29:57 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Re-TF | E04 | As the Advent season moves quickly into Christmas, we invite you to take a few moments to step out of the frantic pace of the holidays and discover the hidden gifts and graces that only a contemplative attitude can reveal.

Re-TF | E03 | Keep awake and stay alert. These advent themes invite us to foster and develop what is known as a Contemplative Attitude - a particular way of being within the world that is 'highly tuned' to the presence of Christ in our midst. In this part one of a two-part Advent retreat, Deacon Eric reflects on this call to keep watch and how we might foster a contemplative attitude this Advent this week on Thinking Faith!

| TF S03 E12 | In this episode of Thinking Faith, Deacon Eric and Dr. Brett Salkeld respond to questions from grade 9 and 10 students at Miller Catholic High School. They dive into topics such as the nature of purgatory, offering metaphors and practical examples to help understand the process of purification. They explain how angels, including fallen angels, fit into Christian theology, touching on the distinctions between angels and humans. Finally, they tackle the question of whether Muslims, Christians, and Catholics serve the same God, exploring the nuances and commonalities in beliefs about God across these faiths. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:47 Opening the Email Bag02:04 First Question: What is Purgatory Like?02:36 Understanding Purgatory Through Metaphors04:09 The Process of Purgatory in Life11:46 Protestant Perspectives on Purgatory20:10 Next Question: Angels, Demons, and Spiritual Beings23:39 The Rejection of the Material by Fallen Angels24:34 God's Presence in the Material World26:45 The Role of Angels in Understanding Humanity27:52 Do Angels Do Math?30:12 Comparative Religion: Do Muslims, Christians, and Catholics Serve the Same God?38:51 Understanding the Relationship Between Catholics and Other Christians43:34 Engaging with Questions from Young People44:15 Conclusion and Blessings

| S03 E11 | In this Thinking Faith Q&A episode, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld answer questions from grade nine and ten students at Miller Catholic High School in Regina about faith, Scripture, and salvation. This week, they explore how to discern when Jesus speaks literally or symbolically, and whether anyone can be certain of heaven, offering a hopeful perspective on faith, mercy, and trust in God.This podcast is made possible by your generous donations to our Archbishop's Appeal: https://bit.ly/ArchReginaGiving202500:00 Introduction and Overview05:08 Classroom Questions06:33 Literal vs. Symbolic Interpretation11:35 The Bread of Life Discourse18:58 Trust and Understanding22:30 How can we know we're going to heaven?25:16 Understanding God's Mercy and Judgment26:59 The Concept of Final Judgment27:33 Particular vs. Final Judgment28:36 Hope and Confidence in Salvation30:35 The Question of Hell31:55 Rationalizing Evil Deeds36:10 Faith and Science: Creation and the Big Bang37:19 Interpreting Genesis and Scientific Theories46:52 The Role of Faith and Science in Understanding Creation48:54 Conclusion and Future Discussions

| S03 E10 | This week on the Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld respond to more thoughtful questions from the St. Jerome’s Youth Group in Hyattsville, Maryland.Together, they explore some of the most profound mysteries of Christian faith — free will, sin, and God’s purpose for humanity. Why would God create people knowing they would sin? How essential is free will to genuine love and faith? What does redemption reveal about the worth of every human being?Drawing from theology, personal experience, and pastoral ministry, Deacon Eric and Dr. Brett reflect on how young people can grow in faith through both questions and community.This podcast is made possible by your generous donations to our Archbishop's Appeal: https://bit.ly/ArchReginaGiving202504:29 Podcast Questions07:31 The Story of Mary and Joseph10:21 Moral Complexities and Sin29:35 The Silence of God in Jephthah's Story30:45 The Goodness of Creation and Human Life32:12 The Value of Human Existence Despite Sin34:08 Parental Perspective on Sin and Goodness37:22 Freedom and Authentic Love38:32 The Role of Freedom in Human Goodness44:36 AI and the Future of Human Good46:09 The Inevitability of Sin and God's Response53:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

| S03 E08 | This week on Thinking Faith: The Catholic Podcast Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence and personhood through the lens of a Catholic anthropology.Drawing on personal experiences with ChatGPT and what the Large Language Model has to say about itself, they reflect on what these interactions reveal about what it means to be human and what it doesn’t. Together, they unpack the theological, ethical, and philosophical implications of rapidly advancing AI technology through the lens of Catholic teaching on the human person, reason, and the soul.

| S03 E07 | In anticipation of his keynote address at the Catholic Health Association of Saskatchewan (CHAS) Convention in Regina on Thursday, October 23, Sebastian Gomes, Executive Editor of Audio and Video at America Magazine and former producer at Salt + Light Media, joins Deacon Eric Gurash on the Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast.Drawing on more than a decade of experience reporting on the Catholic Church, Sebastian reflects on Pope Francis’ vision for a synodal Church, the roots of synodality in Vatican II, and what this means for parishes and Catholic health care ministries here in Saskatchewan.Find out more about Mr. Gomes' two public speaking engagements in Saskatchewan at the following links:https://chassk.ca/https://archregina.sk.ca/event/a-place-for-everyone-how-pope-francis-ignited-the-churchs-mission-to-serve-people-over-ideas/

| S03 | E06 | In Part 2 of this two-part series of the Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld continue their exploration of the rise in Catholic conversions across North America and Western Europe. Building on last week’s conversation, they dig deeper into the personal, cultural, and spiritual factors inspiring people to enter the Catholic Church today.

| S03 | E05 | Across North America and Western Europe, Catholic conversions are on the rise. In this episode of the Thinking Faith Catholic Podcast, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld explore what’s driving this trend — from the global pandemic and declining trust in institutions to the influence of online voices and the Church’s unique appeal to young men.Discover the factors behind this growing movement and what it means for the future of the Catholic Church.

TF | S03 E04 | In this follow-up episode of Thinking Faith: The Catholic Podcast, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld continue their conversation on suicide, mental health, and the Catholic Church’s teaching, turning to the complex issues of suicide prevention and medical assistance in dying (MAiD) in Canada. Together, they explore the moral and theological dimensions of euthanasia, mental illness, mortal sin, and purgatory, while grounding the discussion in the Church’s call to mercy, compassion, and accompaniment. Personal stories and pastoral experiences offer insight into how families and communities can engage these sensitive realities with faith and hope.If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or are concerned about a loved one, please know you are not alone. In Canada, you can dial or text 988 for the Suicide Crisis Helpline anytime, day or night. If you are outside Canada, please contact your local crisis line or emergency services for immediate assistance.#CatholicPodcast #SuicidePrevention #MAiD #MentalHealth #CatholicFaith #ThinkingFaith #Call988 #YouAreNotAlone00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:53 Discussing Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)01:18 Personal Experiences and Church Teachings02:31 The Complexity of Church Teachings on Mortal Sin06:23 Legal and Moral Implications of Assisted Suicide11:46 Critiquing Civil Documentation and Human Freedom13:51 Euthanasia Laws and Suicide Prevention14:53 The Complexity of Suffering and Autonomy15:35 Societal Implications and Suicide Hotlines15:49 Robin Williams and the Narrative of Freedom17:29 Praying for Those Who Have Taken Their Lives17:53 Resources for Coping with Suicide18:40 The Doctrine of Purgatory and God's Mercy20:29 The Healing Experience of Purgatory23:11 Personal Reflections on Conversion and Purgatory25:25 The Intersection of Justice and Mercy26:06 Final Thoughts and Suicide Prevention Month

TF | S03E03 | In this episode of Thinking Faith: The Catholic Podcast, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld explore the Catholic Church’s compassionate teaching on suicide and mental health. They address common misconceptions—such as the idea that suicide automatically leads to damnation—while highlighting the Church’s nuanced understanding of personal culpability, suffering, and God’s mercy.This conversation also offers practical resources like Canada’s 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline and reflects on how the Church is evolving in pastoral care for individuals and families affected by suicide.Whether you are seeking clarity on Catholic teaching, walking with someone in crisis, or looking for hope in the midst of grief, this episode provides insight, encouragement, and reassurance of God’s healing love.#CatholicPodcast #MentalHealth #SuicidePrevention #CatholicFaith #ThinkingFaith #Call988 #YoureNotAloneShow Notes:01:00 Introduction to Thinking Faith podcast02:23 Introduction to the topic of Suicide Prevention Month08:28 Catholic Church's teaching on suicide23:27 How to have conversations about suicide34:32 Closing remarks

| S03 E02 | In this episode of Thinking Faith: The Catholic Podcast, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld explore the connection between spiritual freedom, discernment, and healthy decision-making. Drawing on the wisdom of Ignatian spirituality, they discuss how surrendering control to God leads to greater peace, joy, and clarity in life.Discover practical tools for:- Cultivating healthy detachment- Avoiding occasions of sin- Nurturing desires that align with God’s will- Supporting both mental and spiritual well-beingWhether you’re discerning a major vocation, navigating daily choices, or simply seeking to deepen your faith life, this episode offers insights to help you grow in trust, freedom, and love of God.Share with a friend who could use encouragement in their discernment journey!#CatholicPodcast #IgnatianSpirituality #Discernment #FaithAndFreedom #SpiritualGrowth #ThinkingFaith00:00 Introduction and Study on Decision Making02:02 The Paradox of Spiritual Freedom03:14 Discernment and Spiritual Guidance05:32 Ignatius' Approach to Decision Making08:20 Navigating Life's Choices15:00 Living with Minimal Sin20:18 The Temptation to Escape Sin20:32 The Desert Fathers' Wisdom21:04 Avoiding Occasions of Sin22:10 Understanding the Trap of Pornography23:58 The Limits of Willpower25:20 The Importance of Accountability27:12 Cultivating Healthy Relationships30:07 Staying Busy with Good Things36:08 Practical Tips for Avoiding Sin38:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

| S03 E01| In this episode of Thinking Faith, Deacon Eric Gurash and Dr. Brett Salkeld tackle some of the most common questions young people face about prayer and faith:How do I handle distractions when I pray?How do I know if I’m really following God’s will?Drawing on personal stories and practical wisdom, they share simple strategies for staying focused in prayer, including repetitive prayers, creating sacred spaces, and welcoming everyday thoughts into conversations with God.They also explore the deeper challenge of discernment—how to recognize whether a decision aligns with Christ’s will. You’ll learn why peace and joy are key fruits of the Holy Spirit, how to seek guidance from trusted friends, and how everyday spiritual conversations can strengthen your walk with God.Whether you’re a student, a parent, or anyone seeking to deepen your prayer life, this episode offers encouragement and practical tools for strengthening your relationship with Christ.Don’t forget to subscribe and share with friends who might also be wrestling with prayer or discernment!#CatholicPodcast #PrayerLife #Discernment #Faith #CatholicFaith #SpiritualGrowth #ThinkingFaith00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes01:24 Season Transition and Listener Questions02:31 Questions on Prayer and Holy Living05:04 Dealing with Distractions in Prayer08:56 Practical Tips for Focused Prayer12:08 Using Repetition and Rituals in Prayer16:52 Understanding Vengeance and God's Role17:17 The Power of Unloading Emotions to God20:17 Creating a Dedicated Space for Prayer22:59 Discerning God's Will in Decision Making29:29 The Role of Trustworthy People in Discernment32:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Thinking Faith, Deacon Eric and Dr. Brett Salkeld welcome Dr. Daniel Kuebler for a thoughtful conversation at the crossroads of faith and science. Together, they explore how evolutionary theory can be understood in light of Catholic teaching, drawing on insights from Pope Benedict XVI’s In the Beginning and St. John Paul II’s reflections on evolution. They also discuss how DNA evidence and the fossil record support evolutionary theory, while addressing the common misunderstandings students often bring to the conversation. More than a science lesson, this episode highlights how intellectual engagement can be a vital form of pastoral care—helping young believers grow in both faith and reason.Discover Dr. Kuebler's newest book, Darwin and Doctrine: The Compatibility of Evolution and Catholicism at Word On Fire: https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/products/darwin-and-doctrine00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:03 Examples of Church Teachings01:43 Biblical Interpretation and Evolution07:12 Debate and Seeking Truth10:39 Scientific Insights on Evolution19:45 Human Evolution and Fossil Discoveries21:06 Complex Evolution in Africa21:51 DNA Sequencing and Human Evolution23:26 Hybridization and Rapid Evolution25:22 Fossil Evidence vs. DNA Evidence28:50 Debating Evolution in the Church29:53 Pastoral Need for Evolution Education34:09 Integrating Faith and Evolution36:26 Resources and Further Reading39:43 Seasonal Podcast Format Announcement

In this episode of Thinking Faith, Deacon Eric and Dr. Brett Salkeld are joined by Dr. Daniel Kuebler, a biologist from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Together, they explore the complex but fruitful dialogue between faith and science, focusing on Dr. Kuebler’s work on evolutionary theory and its place within Catholic thought. The conversation also considers the limits and possibilities of academic debate—when it helps, when it hinders, and how we might approach difficult topics with both clarity and charity. Whether you're passionate about theology, science, or both, this episode offers a compelling invitation to reflect on how we engage with one another in the search for truth.Discover Dr. Kuebler's newest book, Darwin and Doctrine: The Compatibility of Evolution and Catholicism at Word On Fire: https://bookstore.wordonfire.org/products/darwin-and-doctrine 00:49 Meet the Hosts and the Guest02:53 Dr. Kuebler's Background and Work06:26 The Debate Controversy14:32 Ideological Challenges in Debating Creationism18:42 Navigating Debate Formats19:15 Misconceptions About Evolution21:28 Debating in a Catholic Context23:06 The Role of Theology in Scientific Debates26:46 Interpreting Scientific Data29:01 Challenges with Young Earth Creationism33:11 Teaching Evolution in a Catholic Setting34:38 Conclusion and Farewell