The Patrick Madrid Show

Latest Episodes:

"The Bible Wasn't Meant to be a Rubik's Cube.": How We Know Jesus Founded the Catholic Church (Special Podcast Highlight) May 14, 2025

Show notes

Okay, put on your theological thinking caps, because in this podcast episode of The Patrick Madrid Show, you'll get a great answer to a BIG question: How do we know Jesus founded the Catholic Church and not some other Christian group?

Patrick brings the receipts, the analogies, and yes… the flat earth references.

The Question That Sparked It All

A listener named Timothy emails Patrick this question:

“Hey Patrick, aren’t you being a little harsh? You call out Protestants for coming down on Catholics, but then don’t you come down just as hard on non-Catholics? Aren’t both sides just passionate about what they believe?”

Timothy’s tone is respectful. And Patrick loves it. He takes it seriously. He gives a full, no-punches-pulled response: rooted in reason, history, and good old-fashioned Catholic confidence.

The Flat Earth Analogy

Patrick compares Protestantism to… flat earth theory.

Not because Protestants are dumb (he’s clear about that; they’re very sincere, smart, and well-meaning), but because:

You can be sincere… and still be sincerely wrong.

He argues that Protestant theology, like flat earth theory, is demonstrably false. It just doesn’t hold up when you look at Scripture, history, and the writings of the early Church Fathers. Just as science clearly disproves a flat earth, Church history disproves that Protestantism was ever the original Christianity.

So, What Does the Bible Say?

Patrick points out that Protestantism often relies on concepts like:

Sola Scriptura ("Bible alone")

Once Saved, Always Saved

…which aren’t in the Bible... and in some cases are even contradicted by the Bible.

He brings up passages like:

2 Thessalonians 2:15: Hold fast to the traditions, oral and written.

1 Corinthians 11: Keep the traditions as I delivered them.

These support Catholic teachings about Scripture and Tradition. Patrick says that trusting only personal Bible interpretation turns the faith into a theological Rubik’s Cube: everyone has their own twist on it. That’s just not how Jesus set it up.

Early Christians Weren’t Protestant, They Were... Catholic

He brings up St. John Henry Newman, the Anglican scholar who tried to disprove Catholicism… and ended up converting because the evidence was so overwhelming.

The early Church:

Believed in the Real Presence in the Eucharist

Celebrated the Mass as a sacrifice

Had sacraments, priests, apostolic authority

Baptized babies

Defended Trinitarian doctrine against heresies

And all this was happening centuries before the Reformation.

Protestantism, Patrick argues, is a latecomer: a break from the historical Church, not a return to it.

The Church is Noah’s Ark

Patrick closes with a beautiful, personal touch:

The Catholic Church is the Ark Jesus built to carry us through the flood of confusion, division, and error. He didn’t leave us a Rubik’s Cube Bible to figure out solo. He left us a Church: one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.

That’s why Patrick is confident, not just passionate. He's not trying to win arguments. He’s trying to show that there’s an unbroken, visible, historical Church founded by Christ, and it’s Catholic.

"My Brother is the Pope." (Special Podcast Highlight) May 13, 2025

Show notes

ABC News snagged an exclusive interview with John Prevost, brother of the newly elected Pope Leo XIV: the first-ever American Pope, born and bred on the South Side of Chicago.

Patrick and Cyrus aired this audio during The Patrick Madrid Show, letting the story breathe... and man, did it breathe life into the moment.

Brotherly Love & Shock

John’s tone was a mix of disbelief, joy, and spiritual awe.

“Not a lot of people can say ‘my brother is the Pope.’”

Yeah, no kidding, John.

He admitted that the news still hadn’t sunk in. The calls, texts, interviews… it’s been a nonstop frenzy since the white smoke rose over St. Peter’s. At first, John thought the idea of an American Pope was laughable... too much geopolitical baggage, right?

But when Pope Leo XIV was in the final three candidates, things got real fast. And when the name was finally announced:

There was screaming, curtain-watching, and immediate family pride overload.

The Man Behind the Mitre

So, who is Pope Leo XIV?

John paints a humble picture. He’s:

-A “regular run-of-the-mill guy”

-Molded by missionary work in South America

-Passionate about serving the poor and voiceless

-Inspired by (and likely to continue the path of) Pope Francis

John explained that his brother Pope Leo XIV met Pope Francis years ago while serving in Peru and Argentina, long before either of them wore white.

Roots in Chicago

Though Leo XIV left for the seminary after 8th grade (to Holland, MI, then Villanova), the Chicago DNA runs deep. His early life was that of a typical kid: neighborhood games, bike rides, and, get this: a prophetic neighbor lady once said he’d be Pope… in first grade.

Just picture it: a kid on the block, riding his bike, and the neighbor declaring, “That one’s gonna be Pope.”

Holy Spirit, anyone?

From Chicago sidewalks to St. Peter’s Square, this story reminds us that God writes the most unexpected plots.

And yeah; He’s definitely not done yet.

What Does it Mean that the Pope is the "Vicar of Christ?" (Special Podcast Highlight) May 13, 2025

Show notes

Ever heard the title "Vicar of Christ" tossed around and wondered, wait... what does that actually mean?

Vicar - Why It’s a Big Deal)

Patrick explains the Latin word "Vicarius." It basically means “second in command” or “chief steward.” Think: the right-hand man or the chief of staff... someone who acts with the authority of the king when the king’s not present.

So, when Catholics say the Pope is the Vicar of Christ, they’re not saying he replaces Jesus. They're saying he represents Jesus on Earth as the one appointed to shepherd the Church in Christ’s name.

From Simon to Peter

Then we jump to the moment in Matthew 16. Jesus asks, “Who do you say I am?” and Simon (not known for being shy) replies, “You are the Christ!” Jesus blesses him, gives him a new name: “Peter” (from the Aramaic Cephas, meaning “rock”), and tells him:

"I give you the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. What you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven..."

Translation: Peter is in charge. Not as a mere administrator, but as the earthly steward of Christ’s kingdom. Patrick makes it crystal clear: This is where the Vicar of Christ idea begins.

Isaiah 22: Old Testament Prime Minister

Patrick connects Matthew 16 to Isaiah 22, where a guy named Eliakim is appointed as the royal steward in the Davidic Kingdom. He's given a robe, a sash, and the keys of the house of David. Sound familiar?

The verse literally says:

"He shall open, and none shall shut; he shall shut, and none shall open."

So, Peter’s role is like Eliakim’s: the one with real authority, not just among equals, but over the whole household.

Christ Is the Head. The Pope Is His Vicar

Christ is always the true head of the Church: ontologically and spiritually. But on Earth, He entrusted Peter (and his successors, the popes) to lead, guide, and protect the flock.

So, when we say, “Vicar of Christ,” we’re affirming:

-Biblical roots (Matthew 16 & Isaiah 22)

-Historical continuity (Peter and beyond)

-Spiritual authority (rooted in Jesus Himself)

Bonus: Pope Fiction

Patrick gives a plug for his book, Pope Fiction, which talks about this exact topic and busts myths left and right. (Worth a read if you're tired of TikTok theology.)

Pope Leo XIV: From Chicago Ballparks to the Chair of St. Peter (Special Podcast Highlight) May 13, 2025

Show notes

Patrick gave you a glimpse into the childhood and early years of our brand-new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV (Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost), with the kind of reverent curiosity you'd expect when an altar boy from the South Side becomes the Vicar of Christ.

You can listen to his entire hour of commentary about Pope Leo XIV here.

Hour 2 is available to listen here. Hour 3 is here.

Humble Beginnings in the Windy City

Born on September 14, 1955, in Dolton, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago), little Robert Prevost was raised in a faithful Catholic home. His dad, Louis Marius Prevost, was of French-Italian descent and served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. His mom, Mildred Martínez, was a Spanish-Creole librarian with deep Louisiana roots.

He grew up going to St. Mary of the Assumption parish, where he served as an altar boy. So yes, he literally started out on the altar... just not quite at the Vatican level yet. He has two brothers, Louis Martin and John Joseph.

A Brainy & Prayerful Path

Young Robert was no slouch in school either; he studied math at Villanova, graduating in 1977.

God had bigger plans. He entered the Order of St. Augustine in 1978, professed vows in 1981, and was ordained a priest in 1982. He studied theology in Chicago and canon law in Rome, eventually earning his doctorate from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (Angelicum).

From Peru to the Pontificate

This wasn’t a man who just sat around in chancery offices. He served as a missionary priest in Peru, taught at seminaries, worked in diocesan offices, and even led the global Augustinian order as Prior General, twice.

Eventually, he was appointed a bishop in Peru, received dual citizenship, and climbed the Vatican ranks: prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America. If you wanted to become a bishop under Pope Francis? You probably went through his office.

Cardinal, then…Pope!

In 2023, he was made a cardinal, and by early 2025, elevated to Cardinal Bishop: one of the highest honors in the Church. Just a few months later, he appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, smiling (and maybe a bit stunned), as the world heard those famous words:

“Habemus Papam!”: We have a Pope!

First Words as Pope

Patrick shared audio from Pope Leo’s first Mass, where he began his homily in English before switching to Italian.

His opening line was a quote from the Psalms:

“I will sing a new song to the Lord, for He has done marvels... not just with me, but with all of us, my brother Cardinals.”

It was humble, sincere, and straight from the heart.

Fun Fact Corner:

There's a photo of him at a Chicago World Series game dressed incognito, talking on a cell phone: captioned: “Here’s the Pope at the World Series.” Instant classic.

His childhood home was reportedly listed for $199K the day before the conclave.

His Creole roots and international experiences give him a beautiful cultural depth: a bridge between continents, languages, and peoples.

From altar boy in Dolton to Peter’s successor: it’s a story only God could write.

The Patrick Madrid Show: May 12, 2025 - Hour 1 May 12, 2025

Show notes

Patrick celebrates the historic election of the new pope and highlights how faith and Catholic media bring hope to listeners. Patrick shares inspiring stories of people reconnecting with their faith, families staying close across the miles, and the unique ways Catholic initiatives make a difference. Through listener questions and meaningful conversations, Patrick brings the community together to build a stronger, faith-filled future.

Audio: Pope Leo XIV echoed the iconic words of Pope John Paul II to young people: “Do not be afraid.” (01:44)
Audio: PLXIV gives an Italian blessing (02:13)
Audio: Pope Leo sings Regina Caeli (03:17)
Jillian - Should Catholics fear God? (11:35)
Beth - Am I allowed to bless my nieces and nephews that are not my godchildren? My husband is deployed in a Muslim country. Can he pray Rosary during the call to prayer? (18:02)
Javier - Does the Church have any teaching about biblical stories and whether Adam and Eve committed mortal or venial sin? (30:21)
Louis - Is having a cough drop in Mass going against the fasting rule before receiving Eucharist? (32:56)
Dante - Is gambling a sin? (43:21)

The Patrick Madrid Show: May 12, 2025 - Hour 2 May 12, 2025

Show notes

Patrick answers pressing questions about the Catholic faith, family challenges, and Church traditions. He offers advice for parents hoping to guide their children back to Catholicism, explains the Pope’s recent statements, and addresses concerns about secret societies and Catholic beliefs. Patrick brings clarity to listeners’ concerns, encourages dialogue, and invites everyone to explore their faith more deeply.

Julie - How do I go about guiding my daughter into the Catholic Church? (01:12)
Julie - What is your take on Pope Leo saying we have to know how to listen and not shut doors? I thought Catholic faith had all the truth. (05:45)
Maria - I don't understand what 'Son of Man' means? (16:46)
Mary (email) - My friend went to an Anglican service while on holiday thinking it was Catholic. Did that count as her Sunday Obligation? (18:31)
Justin - Why do Popes take on a new name and what is the meaning for that? (22:48)
Paul - What is the Church's stance on secret societies and why don’t more priests condemn them? (27:29)
Hazel (email) – Could Pope Leo be our last Pope before the end of the world? (38:29)
Rich – Does Pope Leo have any Creole ancestry? (45:37)

The Patrick Madrid Show: May 12, 2025 - Hour 3 May 12, 2025

Show notes

Patrick highlights the essentials of faith in daily life, the importance of generosity, and standing firm in personal convictions. He encourages critical thinking when facing media messages and discusses the value of family as well as healthy boundaries. Patrick reminds listeners that a meaningful life comes from authentic connections, caring for others, and holding true to principles even when it’s tough. He inspires everyone to live with integrity and to let faith guide both decisions and relationships.

Patrick reads and responds to emails about communion and asking God for the things you need
Alex (email) – How can I help my dad stand up to my brothers who are making his life miserable? (05:45)
Audio: Hearing the actual Pope Leo XIV say "Why didn't you answer your phone" in the most annoyed brother tone ever really humanized that position and makes me feel closer to the church (13:30)
Audio: 2012 interview with @CatholicNewsSvc, Pope Leo XIV (then Robert Cardinal Prevost) addresses how some in the media manipulate narratives (16:23)
Margaret - I receive communion twice a day. Am I not supposed to be doing this? (20:27)
Terry – My daughter-in-law is involved with LGBTQ and accepts it. All of the songs directed and composed by this organization. Should I keep going to these concerts. (21:14)
Ann (email) - Should I continue to talk with Jehovah Witnesses in the spirit of evangelism with the hope that I can convert them, or do I run in the opposite direction in fear that they are instruments of Satan? (27:27)
Anna - I am in OCIA. My 14-year-old son goes to a Baptist Church and wants to be baptized in that Church. Should I let him do that? (32:33)
Kathy - When does Transubstantiation take place? (44:05)
Rob (email) - Could you recommend any books or media to share with my wife to help strengthen her faith? (45:55)

The Patrick Madrid Show: May 09, 2025 - Hour 1 May 09, 2025

Show notes

Patrick shares the historic election of Pope Leo XIV—the first American-born Pope. He highlights the Holy Father’s Chicago roots, his journey in the Augustinian order, his years serving in Peru, and what the new papal name may signal for the Church’s direction. Patrick also answers listener questions about papal traditions and keeps the conversation focused on hope and faith as this new chapter begins for Catholics around the world.

Who is Pope Leo XIV? Patrick gives us the story of a child growing up in Chicago to becoming Pope Leo XIV (00:44)
Audio: Pope Leo XIV began his first homily with words in English during Mass in the Sistine Chapel with the College of Cardinals (03:47)
Audio: Augustinians to meet in Rome to choose new leader and discuss future plans (11 years ago) (21:19)
Rod – Why does the Pope use a fake name instead of his real name? (28:32)
Ann - Pope Leo went to St. Rita High School in Chicago. That is where he got his Augustinian roots. (32:51)
Patrick shares details about Pope Leo XIII (36:12)
Andrew - Pope Leo gave plenary indulgence. What do I need to do to receive this? (50:19)

The Patrick Madrid Show: May 09, 2025 - Hour 2 May 09, 2025

Show notes

Patrick highlights the election of Pope Leo XIV and what this new chapter means for the Church. He explores the tradition of the papal blessing, explains the history and role of religious orders, and answers important listener questions about indulgences. Patrick connects these moments to the impact of faith and leadership, offering takeaways that resonate far beyond the Church—valuable insights for anyone working to build legacy and meaning in their own life and work.

Patrick shares his “Prayer for Pope Leo XIV” (00:50)
Andrew - Pope Leo gave plenary indulgence. What do I need to do to receive this? (01:59)
Matthew - Christian Unity: Martin Luther was also an Augustinian who fought against a prior Pope Leo. (08:28)
Barbara - How far does the tradition of the Conclave go back? (17:24)
Vinnie - If the Pope gives a plenary indulgence over the radio do you get the indulgence for just listening or do you have to be present? (19:17)
Jim - I think it’s great that Pope Leo played priest when he was a little kid. (22:45)
Cindy – Yesterday was the anniversary of WWII. Pope Leo's Father served in WII. Hopeful this Pope will bring peace. (26:19)
Lane – What is the history behind the Room of Tears? (39:15)
John – Does today's modern Mass have any connection to the Papal Encyclical from Leo XIII? (43:09)
Marsha – Can there be more than one Cardinal from an Archdiocese? (47:22)

The Patrick Madrid Show: May 09, 2025 - Hour 3 May 09, 2025

Show notes

Patrick shares the excitement and hope surrounding our new Pope, discusses what it could mean for vocations and the Church in the U.S., and highlights how people everywhere respond. He also explains important faith topics like how indulgences work, why popes change their names, and the meaning of confession. Patrick encourages unity, prayer, and embracing new opportunities for growth in the Church.

Patrick reads and responds to various emails that have come in regarding our new Pope (00:43)
Keaton (email) - How do you think this impacts the priesthood in the United States?
Nancy - Can you explain mortal sin and how to know if you are in mortal sin? (13:19)
Kelly - What are the Crucifixes in the main Church supposed to like? (21:11)
Audio: The brother of Pope Leo XIV gives his reaction to learning the news - courtesy of ABC News (26:39)
Rodney – Does the Pope have infallible authority in politics or economics? (31:17)
Maria - Is it ok to use the name of Jesus for a computer password? (37:53)
Lynn - Do only Catholics believe that Jesus is God? Why do Catholic’s have Jesus on the Cross? (40:10)
Marcel – When we saw the white smoke and the Church bells started ringing, I started crying. (45:14)
Mark - How do I explain that we’ve had 267 Popes? (46:41)

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