The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns

The Early Church and the Eucharist 06.07.2026 8min

The Early Church and the Eucharist | Hidden Treasures of the Early Church Did the first Christians really believe the Eucharist was the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ? In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we journey back to the earliest generations of the Church to discover what the first Christians actually taught and believed. Drawing from the writings of the Apostolic Fathers and the earliest Christian witnesses, you'll hear the powerful testimony of those who learned directly from the Apostles and faithfully preserved Christ's teaching. Far from being a later Catholic invention, the belief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist was at the very heart of Christian worship from the beginning. Whether you're Catholic, exploring the faith, or simply curious about Christian history, this episode offers compelling evidence that the Church's teaching on the Eucharist has remained unchanged for nearly 2,000 years. Join Deacon Pat as we uncover another hidden treasure of the Early Church—and discover why the Eucharist has always been called the source and summit of the Christian life. The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns Helping Catholics discover the beauty, truth, and history of the Catholic faith—one journey at a time. #CatholicJourney #Eucharist #EarlyChurch #CatholicFaith #RealPresence #ChurchHistory #CatholicPodcast #DeaconPatKearns

How the Bible Came Together - Hidden Treasures of the Early Church 05.07.2026 8min

How Did the Bible Come to Be? Have you ever wondered who decided which books belong in the Bible—or how the Scriptures we hold today were preserved through the centuries? In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the remarkable story behind the Bible's formation. From the writings of the Apostles and the early Christian communities to the guidance of the Church and the work of the early councils, you'll discover how God faithfully guided His people in preserving His Word. You'll also learn why the Catholic Church played a central role in recognizing the canon of Scripture, why some books are included in Catholic Bibles but not in Protestant editions, and how the Bible and the Church have always gone hand in hand. Whether you're a lifelong Catholic or simply curious about the origins of the Bible, this episode will strengthen your confidence in the Scriptures and deepen your appreciation for God's plan throughout history. 🎧 Join me on The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns as we uncover the fascinating story of how the Bible came to be—and why that story still matters today. #CatholicJourney #BibleHistory #CatholicFaith #SacredScripture

Saint Augustine - Hidden Treasures of the Early Church 04.07.2026 9min

Saint Augustine: From Restless Heart to Great Saint What happens when one of history's greatest sinners becomes one of Christianity's greatest saints? In this inspiring episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the remarkable life of Saint Augustine of Hippo—a brilliant young man who spent years pursuing pleasure, ambition, and worldly success before discovering that only God could satisfy the deepest longings of his heart. Guided by the persistent prayers of his mother, Saint Monica, and influenced by the preaching of Saint Ambrose, Augustine experienced a dramatic conversion that transformed not only his own life but the future of the Church. Join Deacon Pat as he shares Augustine's struggles, his famous conversion, and the timeless lessons that continue to inspire Christians today. Whether you feel far from God or are seeking a deeper faith, Augustine's story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God's mercy. Your past does not define you—God's grace does. #SaintAugustine #CatholicJourney #CatholicFaith #Conversion #DeaconPatKearns #CatholicPodcast #Saints

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church - Saint Monica - The Mother Who Never Gave Up 02.07.2026 9min

Saint Monica: A Mother's Tears That Changed History In this inspiring episode, we journey into the remarkable life of Saint Monica, one of the Church's greatest examples of faithful perseverance. Despite years of heartache, family struggles, and watching her beloved son wander far from God, Monica never stopped praying, hoping, or trusting in the Lord. Discover how the tears and prayers of one faithful mother helped lead her son, Saint Augustine of Hippo, to conversion—ultimately changing the course of Christian history. Saint Monica's story reminds us that no one is beyond God's mercy and that persistent prayer can bear extraordinary fruit. If you have ever prayed for a child, spouse, family member, or friend who has drifted from the faith, this episode will encourage and strengthen your heart. 🎙️ Join Deacon Pat as we uncover the timeless lessons of faith, patience, and unwavering trust found in the life of Saint Monica. #CatholicPodcast #SaintMonica #SaintAugustine #CatholicJourney

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church - Saint Athanasius - The Man Who Stood Against the World 01.07.2026 8min

In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the extraordinary life of Saint Athanasius, the courageous bishop who stood firm in defense of the truth of Jesus Christ during one of the greatest crises in Church history. Known as "Athanasius Against the World," he refused to compromise the faith, even when emperors, bishops, and much of the Christian world opposed him. Exiled multiple times for defending the divinity of Christ, Saint Athanasius reminds us that truth is not determined by popularity, but by fidelity to God. Join us as we uncover the remarkable story of this fearless defender of orthodoxy and discover what his witness can teach Catholics living in today's challenging culture. #CatholicPodcast #SaintAthanasius #EarlyChurch #CatholicFaith

Proud to be an American Catholic 30.06.2026 1min

Proud to be an American Catholic

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church - The Council of Nicaea 30.06.2026 8min

🏛️ The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns – Hidden Treasures of the Early Church: The Council of Nicaea What happened when the early Church faced one of its greatest crises? In this episode of Hidden Treasures of the Early Church, we journey back to A.D. 325 and explore the historic Council of Nicaea—the gathering that helped define what Christians believe about Jesus Christ. Discover how courageous bishops, led by great saints like St. Athanasius, defended the truth that Jesus is truly God, "begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father." Learn why the Nicene Creed, prayed at Mass every Sunday, remains one of the most important statements of Christian faith. Join Deacon Pat as we uncover the drama, theology, and lasting impact of this pivotal moment in Church history. 🎧 Listen and deepen your understanding of the faith handed down through the centuries. #TheCatholicJourney #CouncilOfNicaea #CatholicPodcast #EarlyChurch #ChurchHistory #NiceneCreed #CatholicFaith #DeaconPatKearns

Hidden Tresures of the Early Church - Saints Perpetua and Felicity 29.06.2026 8min

In this powerful episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we journey back to the early Church to discover the extraordinary witness of Saints Perpetua and Felicity. One was a young noblewoman and new mother; the other, an enslaved woman expecting her first child. Though separated by social status, they were united by something far greater—their unwavering love for Jesus Christ. Facing imprisonment, family heartbreak, and the threat of a brutal death, these courageous women refused to deny their faith. Their inspiring story reminds us that true freedom is found not in comfort or security, but in complete trust in God. Their witness continues to challenge and inspire Christians nearly 2,000 years later. Join Deacon Pat as we uncover the remarkable courage, faith, and hope of these early Christian martyrs and explore what their lives can teach us about standing firm in our own faith today. Suggested Tags: #CatholicPodcast #EarlyChurch #SaintsPerpetuaAndFelicity #TheCatholicJourney

Prenant... Now What 29.06.2026 6min

🌟 NEW RELEASE! 🌟 Expecting a baby changes everything. The excitement. The questions. The joy. The uncertainty. What if there was a Catholic companion to walk with you through every week of pregnancy? I'm excited to introduce my newest book: 📖 Pregnant... Now What? A Catholic Journey for Mothers and Fathers Awaiting New Life Written from the heart of a Catholic deacon, father, grandfather, nurse, and former Navy Hospital Corpsman who assisted in the birth of more than 300 babies, this book offers weekly reflections, prayers, practical guidance, saint reflections, and encouragement for both mothers and fathers. ❤️ Grow closer to your spouse. 🙏 Grow closer to your child. ✝️ Grow closer to God. Available now on Amazon: 📚 Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H6VLDZTD 📱 Kindle Edition: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GYLX9NVP Please share this post with anyone expecting a child or preparing to become parents. #Catholic #Pregnancy #CatholicParents #ProLife #PregnantNowWhat #CatholicFamily #ChristianParenting #NewBaby #CatholicBooks #DeaconPatKearns

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church - The Desert Fathers 28.06.2026 8min

🌵 The Desert Fathers: Wisdom from the Wilderness 🌵 What can Christians living in today's busy, distracted world learn from men who lived alone in the deserts of Egypt nearly 1,700 years ago? In this episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we journey into the lives of the early Christian monks known as the Desert Fathers—holy men who left behind comfort, wealth, and worldly distractions to seek God with their whole hearts. Discover how their timeless wisdom on prayer, silence, humility, spiritual warfare, temptation, and holiness remains just as relevant today as it was in the fourth century. Through inspiring stories and practical insights, Deacon Pat explores how these spiritual giants can help us grow closer to Christ amid the noise and challenges of modern life. Join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of the desert and learn why sometimes we must step away from the world in order to truly hear the voice of God. 🎙️ The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns "Helping Catholics see life through the eyes of faith—bringing depth, courage, and clarity to a confused modern world." #CatholicJourney #DesertFathers #CatholicPodcast #ChristianSpirituality #CatholicFaith #PrayerLife #EarlyChurch #CatholicLiving

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church - The Catacombs of Rome 27.06.2026 8min

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church – Episode 5 The Catacombs of Rome: The Underground Church Beneath the bustling streets of Rome lies a hidden world that tells the story of the earliest Christians—a world of faith, courage, sacrifice, and hope. In this fascinating episode of Hidden Treasures of the Early Church, Deacon Pat Kearns takes listeners deep into the ancient Catacombs of Rome, where early Christians buried their loved ones, honored the martyrs, and proclaimed their unwavering belief in the Resurrection. Discover the meaning behind ancient Christian symbols such as the fish, the anchor, and the Good Shepherd. Learn why the early Christians viewed death not as an end, but as the doorway to eternal life. Explore how these underground burial chambers continue to inspire Christians nearly 2,000 years later. Join us as we uncover another hidden treasure of our Catholic faith and discover what the Catacombs can teach us about living—and dying—with hope. 🎙️ The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns "Christ is risen. Death does not have the final word." #CatholicJourney #EarlyChurch #CatacombsOfRome #CatholicFaith #ChurchHistory #CommunionOfSaints #ChristianHistory #HiddenTreasuresOfTheEarlyChurch #CatholicPodcast

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church - Saint Irenaeus 26.06.2026 10min

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church – Episode 4 Saint Irenaeus: How We Know Christianity Didn't Change How do we know that the Christian faith preached today is the same faith taught by Jesus and the Apostles? In this fascinating episode of Hidden Treasures of the Early Church, Deacon Pat explores the life and legacy of Saint Irenaeus, one of the greatest defenders of the early Church. As a disciple of Saint Polycarp—who himself was a disciple of the Apostle John—Irenaeus provides a direct link back to the Apostles and offers powerful evidence that the Catholic faith has been faithfully handed down through the centuries. Discover how Irenaeus confronted false teachings, defended Apostolic Succession, affirmed the authority of the Church, and proclaimed the beautiful truth that "the glory of God is man fully alive." Join us as we uncover another hidden treasure of the Early Church and learn why Saint Irenaeus remains one of the most important voices in Christian history. 🎙️ The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns #CatholicJourney #SaintIrenaeus #EarlyChurch #CatholicFaith #ChurchHistory #ApostolicSuccession #HiddenTreasuresOfTheEarlyChurch

Polycarp 24.06.2026 10min

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church – Episode 3: The Martyrdom of Polycarp What does unwavering faith look like? In Episode 3 of Hidden Treasures of the Early Church, Deacon Pat Kearns explores the inspiring story of Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna and a direct disciple of the Apostle John. Living during a time of fierce persecution, Polycarp faced a choice that every Christian eventually encounters in one form or another: compromise your faith or remain faithful to Christ. Hear the remarkable account of his arrest, his famous declaration—"Eighty-six years I have served Him, and He has done me no wrong"—and the courage that made him one of the most beloved martyrs in Christian history. More than a story about death, this is a story about faithfulness, conviction, and the kind of courage that still challenges Christians today. Join us as we uncover another hidden treasure from the early Church and discover what Polycarp's witness can teach us about standing firm in a world that often asks us to compromise.

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church - Justin Martyr 23.06.2026 10min

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church – Episode 2: Justin Martyr What if one of the greatest defenders of Christianity began his journey as a philosopher searching for truth? In Episode 2 of Hidden Treasures of the Early Church, Deacon Pat Kearns explores the remarkable life of Justin Martyr—a second-century convert, philosopher, and saint who courageously defended the Christian faith before emperors and skeptics alike. Discover how Justin found Christ through reason and faith, why his writings provide some of the earliest descriptions of the Mass, and how his witness continues to inspire Catholics nearly 2,000 years later. His story reminds us that faith is not opposed to reason—it is the fulfillment of our deepest search for truth. Join us as we uncover another hidden treasure from the early Church and learn why Justin Martyr remains one of Christianity’s most important voices. 🎧 The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns 📖 Hidden Treasures of the Early Church – Episode 2 ⛪ Faith • History • Apologetics • Inspiration #TheCatholicJourney #DeaconPatKearns #JustinMartyr #EarlyChurch #CatholicPodcast #CatholicHistory #ChurchFathers #FaithAndReason

The Hidden Treasures of the Early Church - Saint Ignatius of Antioch - The Man Who Knew the Apostles 22.06.2026 10min

Hidden Treasures of the Early Church – Episode 1 St. Ignatius of Antioch: The Man Who Knew the Apostles What if you could sit down with someone who learned the Christian faith directly from an Apostle? In this powerful first episode of our new series, Hidden Treasures of the Early Church, we explore the remarkable life of St. Ignatius of Antioch—a disciple of St. John, bishop, martyr, and one of the earliest witnesses to what Christians believed after the time of Jesus. As he journeyed toward his execution in Rome, Ignatius wrote letters that continue to inspire Christians nearly 2,000 years later. His writings reveal early beliefs about the Catholic Church, the Eucharist, apostolic authority, and the courage to remain faithful even in the face of death. Discover why this extraordinary saint is one of the most important links between the Apostles and the Church we know today. Join Deacon Pat Kearns as we uncover a forgotten treasure of our faith and learn what true courage, conviction, and discipleship look like. 🎙️ The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns #CatholicJourney #EarlyChurch #StIgnatiusOfAntioch #CatholicFaith #ChurchHistory #ChristianMartyrs #HiddenTreasuresOfTheEarlyChurch

Fatherhood Through God's Eyes 21.06.2026 11min

Father's Day Through God's Eyes Father's Day can bring a mix of emotions. For some, it is a day of gratitude and celebration. For others, it may stir memories of loss, disappointment, or longing. Yet through God's eyes, fatherhood is one of the most powerful and sacred callings a man can receive. In this special Father's Day episode, Deacon Pat reflects on the vocation of fatherhood, the quiet sacrifices good fathers make, the wounds left by absent fathers, and the hope that comes from our Heavenly Father who never abandons His children. Whether you are a father, have a father, miss a father, or serve as a spiritual father to others, this message offers encouragement, healing, and inspiration. Join us as we celebrate the men who strive each day to love, protect, guide, and provide—and discover what fatherhood looks like through the eyes of God. 🎙️ The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns #FathersDay #CatholicFaith #Fatherhood #TheCatholicJourney

What Does Father's Day Mean to Me 20.06.2026 9min

What does Father's Day mean to me? In this deeply personal episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, I share the story of the man who shaped my life more than anyone else—my father. A devoted husband, father of six boys, faithful Catholic, teacher, mentor, and daily prayer warrior, my dad lived a life of quiet sacrifice. Through family struggles, financial pressures, and personal hardships, he never stopped showing up for those he loved. He worked two jobs, rarely missed one of our games, prayed the Rosary every day, and taught countless young people that they mattered. This episode is a tribute not only to my father, but to all fathers, grandfathers, mentors, priests, and father figures who love through sacrifice, lead through example, and remain faithful when life is difficult. Whether your father is still with you, has passed away, or your relationship was complicated, this reflection is an invitation to remember those who helped shape your life and to thank God for the gift of fatherhood. "You remain my greatest hero. And if I become even half the man you were, I will consider my life a success." Happy Father's Day. #FathersDay #CatholicJourney #CatholicPodcast #Fatherhood #FaithAndFamily #CatholicLife #Legacy #Gratitude

When Someone You Love Goes To Prison 20.06.2026 8min

When Someone You Love Goes to Jail What do you do when someone you love is arrested, convicted, and sentenced to prison? In this heartfelt episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the emotional, spiritual, and practical challenges families face when a loved one goes to jail. Feelings of shock, anger, shame, grief, confusion, and even guilt are common—but no family has to walk this road alone. Drawing from faith, compassion, and real-life experience, Deacon Pat discusses how to support a loved one without excusing harmful choices, how to maintain healthy boundaries, and how to find hope when the future seems uncertain. Most importantly, we reflect on God's mercy and the truth that no mistake is greater than His love. Whether you are personally facing this difficult situation or want to better understand what others are going through, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and a reminder that redemption is always possible. Tags: #CatholicJourney #PrisonMinistry #FaithAndHope #GodsMercy #CatholicPodcast

Tough Love - When Loving Someone Means Saying NO 19.06.2026 7min

Tough Love – Loving Someone Without Losing Yourself What do you do when someone you love is trapped in addiction, destructive behavior, or a cycle of poor choices? How do you help without enabling? How do you set boundaries without feeling guilty? In this heartfelt episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore the difficult but necessary balance between compassion and accountability. Drawing from faith, life experience, and Catholic teaching, Deacon Pat discusses why true love sometimes requires saying "no," allowing consequences to unfold, and trusting God with the people we care about most. Whether you're a parent, spouse, sibling, grandparent, or friend, this episode offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and hope for those carrying the heavy burden of loving someone who refuses help. You'll learn how healthy boundaries can become acts of mercy, why guilt often keeps us trapped in unhealthy patterns, and how to remain loving without sacrificing your own peace and well-being. Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is step back, pray, and let God work. #CatholicJourney #ToughLove #AddictionRecovery #CatholicPodcast #FaithAndFamily

Juneteenth Through Catholic Eyes 18.06.2026 13min

Most of us have heard of Juneteenth, but many of us were never taught its history or why it matters. In this special episode of The Catholic Journey with Deacon Pat Kearns, we explore Juneteenth through the lens of the Catholic faith—not through politics, but through the timeless principles of human dignity, freedom, justice, and redemption. Drawing from Scripture, Catholic teaching, American history, and even my own Irish heritage, we reflect on a truth that unites all people: the desire to be free. From the Israelites in Egypt, to the struggles of the Irish people, to the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, every human heart longs for the freedom God created us to enjoy. Join us as we discover why Juneteenth is more than a historical event—it is a reminder that every person is made in the image of God and that true freedom is ultimately found in Jesus Christ. Faith. Freedom. Human Dignity. One God. One Human Family. #Juneteenth #CatholicJourney #CatholicPodcast #HumanDignity #FreedomInChrist