They That Hope: A Catholic Podcast - theythathope

Latest Episodes:

Bob's Hobbit Adventure Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

What do typhoon evacuations, koala selfies, and second breakfast in Hobbiton have in common? They’ve all been part of Deacon Bob’s adventurous month.

After a few weeks apart, Father Dave and Deacon Bob are back, swapping globe-trotting tales, ministry moments, and a surprisingly full slate of sports updates. Bob’s recent trip took him from the typhoon-swept Philippines to Singapore, Perth, Sydney, and a bucket-list stop in New Zealand’s Hobbiton (yes, complete with hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and second breakfast).

Along the way, he preached to 90 youth leaders just hours after a typhoon hit, met a koala, saw kangaroos, and even met a listener named Rain who drove five hours just to hear him speak. There were plenty of memorable meals, from perfect pancakes to less-than-crispy bacon.

Meanwhile, Father Dave stayed stateside, baptizing great-nieces (one walked to her own baptism), speaking at the Knights of Columbus Conference, and making a moving visit to the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City. He shares Rother’s remarkable story—from failing Latin in seminary, to obeying his bishop’s call to return to Guatemala, to his martyrdom in 1981—and the beauty of a shrine built right in the heart of the city it serves.

Sports fans get plenty too: the debut of MLB’s first female umpire Jen Pawol (including her Hall of Fame–bound first pitch), Tom Brady’s towering new statue, and even a trivia challenge about the University of Michigan making draft history.

Naturally, there are detours, including CGI vs. AI, bad sports statues, and ministry moments that transcended cultural boundaries. But through it all, the heart stays the same: joyfully sharing the Gospel, wherever God sends you (even if it’s to a sheep paddock in New Zealand).

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Sports, Schedules, and Saying Goodbye

The guys open with bittersweet news about the podcast winding down, why recording has gotten harder, and an invitation for listeners to share favorite memories. They then go into the week’s light sports slate and review the new Superman. Even with the end in sight, their trademark banter is alive and well.

(05:41) Football, Statues, and Sports Trivia

Deacon Bob previews a Buccaneers-Steelers preseason game while Father Dave looks forward to Steelers training camp. They discuss Tom Brady’s towering statue and celebrate Jen Pawol historic debut as MLB’s first female umpire. The segment wraps with a trivia challenge about a university making draft history in all four major leagues.

(15:44) From Typhoons to Hobbit Holes

Bob recounts ministry in the Philippines, Perth, and New Zealand, including speaking to youth leaders after a typhoon and connecting with alumni abroad. He describes walking through the Shire set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, complete with hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn. Jenny may not be a huge fan of the films, but even she found the tour magical.

(23:42) Sydney, Koalas, and the Ends of the Earth

From welcoming bishops to preaching across cultures, Bob reflects on moments when the Holy Spirit’s anointing was tangible. He shares encounters with young adults, a koala, and a listener who drove five hours to hear him speak. Each stop reaffirmed the universal joy of sharing the Gospel.

(25:42) Baptisms, Knights, and Blessed Stanley Rother

Father Dave talks about baptizing his great-nieces and representing Franciscan University at the Knights of Columbus Conference. He shares the moving story of Blessed Stanley Rother a missionary priest martyred in Guatemala, and describes visiting the shrine dedicated to him. The witness of Rother’s courage and devotion left a lasting impression.

(32:37) Feast Days and a Chapel Blessing

Looking ahead to the Feast of the Assumption they pray for peace amid global tensions. Father Dave previews the blessing of Franciscan University’s newly renovated Christ the King Chapel, while Bob outlines upcoming speaking engagements. The conversation closes with anticipation for the start of the school year.

Resources Mentioned

Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine – Learn more about the first American-born martyr

MLB First Female Umpire – Jen Pawol – Read about her historic debut

Hobbiton Movie Set – Explore the filming location of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit

Feast of the Assumption – August 15, a Holy Day of Obligation in the Catholic Church

Christ the King Chapel Renovation – Franciscan University’s expanded and renewed chapel

Purposeful Lab – New season started on Faith and Reason

The July Episode Jul 23, 2025

Show notes

What happens when the world’s top golfer says faith—not golf—is his top priority?

Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick off this episode with that headline-grabbing story, plus summer sports updates, movie reviews, and a powerful look at how God is moving through this year’s youth conferences.

They cover everything from the MLB All-Star Game and Father Dave’s baseball “betrayal” (attending games without Bob) to a heartfelt reflection on Scottie Scheffler’s British Open win—and why his grounded priorities made bigger headlines than his major win. Father Dave also reviews the new Superman movie, featuring Krypto the Superdog, while Deacon Bob tries to catch up on Fantastic Four before heading overseas.

But the heart of the episode is ministry: stories from Steubenville Youth Conferences where teens received the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and lives were changed through the theme “Consumed.” Father Dave shares insights from a friars’ retreat on hope as a spiritual discipline, while Bob prepares for a whirlwind ministry tour in the Philippines, Australia, and beyond (with protein bars and peanut butter in tow).

Naturally, there are tangents galore: a drone demo gone off-script, global food fears, and a preview of Franciscan’s upcoming Christ the King Chapel dedication. But through it all, the message is clear: Hope doesn’t disappoint—it transforms.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Summer Break, Baseball, and All-Star Highlights
The guys ease back into the podcast after a month off with All-Star Game highlights, reflections on the Tigers’ surprising run, and a lament over Father Dave attending games without Bob. They also touch on rising stars like Paul Skenes, who started for the National League, and celebrate the return of players wearing their own uniforms.

(05:10) Scheffler’s Priorities and Superpowered Blockbusters
Scottie Scheffler wins the British Open, but stuns the media by saying golf is third in his life after faith and family. The guys reflect on identity, ambition, and what really matters. Father Dave also reviews Superman (yes, Krypto the dog steals the show), while Bob desperately hopes he can catch Fantastic Four while on the road.

(11:30) Faith Under Fire
They highlight Father Dave’s recent In Person interview with Nina Shea, who shares sobering insights on Christian persecution across the globe—from Nigeria to China—and what it means to witness to hope in the face of violence and fear.

(13:17) Youth Conferences: Confessions, Vocations, and Conversions
From Halifax to Springfield, this summer’s Steubenville Conferences have been full of grace. Thousands of confessions. Vocational calls answered. And in St. Louis alone, 20 teens stepped forward expressing their desire to come more fully into the Church.

(23:56) A World Tour, a Friars’ Retreat, and Acts of Hope
Bob prepares to minister across the globe, while Father Dave shares a takeaway from the friars’ retreat: hope is an action—choosing to lean into God, especially when life feels uncertain.

(28:24) Chapel Countdown and a Drone in the Studio
They preview Franciscan’s upcoming chapel dedication, celebrate milestones, and attempt a live drone demo (with expected results). The episode closes with prayer for those struggling to hold onto hope.

Resources Mentioned

“Scottie Scheffler says 'faith and family' are most important after winning British Open” – Christian Post article
Steubenville Conferences – Life-changing encounters with Christ for youth and adults alike
In Person Interview with Nina Shea – Watch Father Dave’s interview with Nina Shea on global Christian persecution
Superman (2025)
The Fantastic Four: First Step
Ablaze Ministries

Pillow Fight! Jun 25, 2025

Show notes

There’s nothing like the NBA and NHL Finals… unless you count professional pillow fighting.

In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob celebrate the end of the sports season with a rundown of the Stanley Cup, the NBA Finals, and the rise of summer’s strangest athletic events, including the Pillow Fighting Championship (yes, it’s real).

But the heart of the episode is hope—the kind that doesn’t come from scores or summer plans, but from Christ. They reflect on the Eucharist, the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts, and the graces poured out at recent conferences at Franciscan and Notre Dame. From youth ministry to marriage milestones, they explore what it means to trust God with both our spiritual and everyday needs.

Naturally, they go off on tangents, from hotel bathrobes and awkward airline announcements to anniversary shoutouts and the idea of launching a Franciscan pillow-fighting team (tentative name: the Franciscan Feathers).

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Bathrobes, Notre Dame, and the $175 Upcharge
Deacon Bob checks in from the Morris Inn at the University of Notre Dame, complimentary robe included. He’s there for Notre Dame Vision, a youth program inviting high schoolers into deeper faith.

(03:30) Sports Wrap and the Rise of Pillow Fighting
From there, they pivot to sports: the Florida Panthers clinch the Stanley Cup, Oklahoma City Thunder top the Pacers in Game 7, and Canada’s Stanley Cup drought continues. And just when you think sports can’t get weirder—enter the Pillow Fighting Championship, now with corporate sponsorships and, apparently, rules.

(10:31) Augustine and Airport Public Shaming
Fr. Dave highlights a recent In Focus episode featuring Dr. Shane Owens, where they unpack the enduring relevance of St. Augustine’s Confessions in a world increasingly shaped by AI and secular culture. The conversation quickly pivots, though, as Deacon Bob shares a less lofty moment: a painfully awkward moment from his flight to South Bend, where a bathroom break turned into a public shaming over the intercom.

(19:29) Hope as Grace: Conferences and Franciscan Honeymoon
Father Dave shares stories from the Power and Purpose Conference, themed around hope. He reflects on hope as a grace—not just good vibes or optimism—and mentions a couple who spent their 50th wedding anniversary and a couple on their honeymoon at the same event.

(23:01) Corpus Christi and the God Who Satisfies
Jesus didn’t just meet spiritual needs. He fed the crowds too. Father Dave and Deacon Bob explore how our trust in God is often strong in the abstract, but wavers in daily stresses. They tie it back to Corpus Christi, Romans 5, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

(28:34) Sacred Hearts, Summer Kickoffs, and Marriage Milestones
Deacon Bob celebrates 28 years of marriage on the same day as the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. He also gives a shoutout to the kickoff of Franciscan’s high school youth conferences and the ongoing Priests, Deacons, and Seminarians Retreat.

(31:10) Praying for Peace in a Complicated World
The hosts close with a prayer for peace amid global tensions, especially in the Middle East and Ukraine. They close with a reflection on Pope Leo’s Angelus invitation to prayer and remind listeners that lasting peace only comes from the Heart of Christ.

Resources & Mentions

Power and Purpose Conference – A weekend of renewal, prayer, and worship through Steubenville Conferences.
Notre Dame Vision – A summer youth program helping teens hear God’s call.
Romans 15:13 and Romans 5:5 – Scriptures that anchor this episode’s theme of hope
Pope Leo XIV: Son of St. Augustine – Watch the latest In Focus episode with guest Dr. Shane Owens on Faith & Reason.
Pillow Fighting Championship– Yes, it’s real. Yes, it has rules. Yes, you’re going to Google it.

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

Saints of Poland Jun 18, 2025

Show notes

What happens when you pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet in St. Faustina’s backyard?

This week, Father Dave shares powerful moments from his recent pilgrimage to Poland—visiting sacred sites tied to St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Faustina, and St. John Paul II. From celebrating Mass at Kolbe’s friary to walking through Auschwitz and Birkenau, it’s a glimpse of God’s mercy amid some of history’s darkest places.

While Father Dave walked in the footsteps of saints, Deacon Bob found hopeful witness in the desert. He returns from the Life Teen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention in Arizona, where he gave a talk on “Radiant Hope” and reconnected with longtime friends in ministry. Together, the hosts reflect on the quiet, often unseen ways God raises up saints in every generation—even in the most unexpected places.

And yes, this episode still includes classic They That Hope moments: breakfast with Father Dave’s brother Tom, a temporarily misplaced child on the New York subway, and a burning question: Why does the French Open have two names?

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Breakfast with Tom, Arizona Adventures, and Youth Ministry in the Desert
Deacon Bob recounts his recent trip to Arizona for the Life Teen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention where he reconnected with ministry leaders and gave a keynote on “Radiant Hope.” He also shares a surprise breakfast meet-up with Father Dave’s brother, Tom (a loyal listener), some humorous travel woes, and the joy of being surrounded by those serving the Church’s youth.

(04:08) Sports Recap: NBA, NHL, Tennis, and... Golf?
From unexpected NBA playoff upsets to a grueling five-set French Open final, Father Dave and Deacon Bob weigh in on recent sports headlines. They touch on the drama of playoff hockey, marvel at JJ Spaun’s 62-foot putt, and clear up (sort of) why the French Open is also called Roland-Garros.

(09:01) Audiobook Adventures
Deacon Bob announces that his book Sharing the Gospel with Our Lives is getting the audiobook treatment—and he’s narrating it himself. He shares the process (including a mysterious home studio in Columbus), while Father Dave recalls the heartbreak of being cut off with just 15 minutes left in a Navy SEAL memoir due to subscription limits.

(16:29) Pilgrimage to Poland: Kolbe, Faustina & Divine Mercy in Dark Places
Father Dave reflects on the deeply moving pilgrimage he led across Poland. Highlights include Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe’s friary visiting the birthplace of St. Faustina, and praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet in St. Faustina’s backyard with her niece. He shares how the lives of these saints—and the sobering visit to Auschwitz and Birkenau—revealed the light of God even in history’s darkest moments.

(23:02) Saints Amidst Suffering
As conflict rages in places like Gaza and Ukraine, the hosts reflect on how God raises up saints in every era. From the Missionaries of Charity caring for the vulnerable in war zones, to everyday youth ministers and celibate religious, they honor those whose quiet, faithful witness brings hope to the world.

(28:22) Radiant Hope in Service
Expanding on his convention talk, Deacon Bob shares how true Christian hope is made visible through acts of loving service. Drawing from Scripture and the Visitation of Mary, he explains how hope, though unseen, shines clearly in those who serve joyfully and sacrificially.

Resources Mentioned

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

Pope, Pope, Pope Jun 04, 2025

Show notes

There’s a new pope—and he’s an Augustinian!

In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first member of the Order of St. Augustine to lead the Catholic Church. They explore why St. Augustine’s Confessions remains a spiritual masterpiece and how his vision of community, conversion, and interior prayer speaks to the Church’s call for renewal today.

Naturally, they go off on many tangents, starting with a chilly trip to Cedar Point, detouring through spelling bee glory and NFL drama, and ending in Poland (via pilgrimage, not roller coaster). And yes, they say “Pope” a lot. Allegedly, it boosts downloads. (Spoiler: It works.)

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) T-Shirts, Field of Dreams, and the Pope Bump
The episode opens with an early Father’s Day gift: a nostalgic T-shirt featuring Field of Dreams. This sparks a discussion about podcast stats and the surprisingly real “Pope bump,” where there seems to be an uptick in listeners anytime the pope is mentioned in the title. For science, they test it live.

(03:45) Teacups, Tournaments, and the Cold Ride of Aging
Deacon Bob recounts a brisk grandkid-filled day at Cedar Point, while Father Dave recaps the equally chilly Memorial Golf Tournament in Dublin, Ohio. Along the way, they correct a Jack Nicklaus/Jack Nicholson mix-up and debate whether roller coasters or golf better reveal our age.

(10:28) Spelling Bees, Stage Fright, and Childhood Wins
The Scripps National Spelling Bee champ nails “éclaircissement,” then collapses with joy. That memory sparks their own stories: Father Dave’s catechism bee victory and Deacon Bob’s state theater auditions. They reflect on the pressure of performing, the resilience it builds, and how these moments shape us.

(16:11) Pope Leo XIV, St. Augustine, and Why Confessions Still Matters
The first Augustinian pope opens the door to rich reflections on St. Augustine’s enduring legacy. Father Dave and Deacon Bob spotlight Return to the Heart by Dr. Shane Owens, which unpacks the biblical themes in Confessions for today’s reader. Owens also recently joined Father Dave for an episode of Franciscan University Presents to discuss how Augustine’s life and writings continue to guide hearts back to Christ.

(21:05) Pentecost, Pilgrimages, and the Road Ahead
Pentecost kicks off a summer of spiritual encounters: Heather Khym leads the first Glory: A Women’s Gathering, Deacon Bob heads to the LifeTeen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention, and Father Dave departs for a pilgrimage to Poland to visit sites connected to St. John Paul II, St. Faustina, and St. Maximilian Kolbe. They share the joys of ministry on the move and the fresh hope the Holy Spirit always brings.

Resources Mentioned

Return to the Heart: The Biblical Spirituality of St. Augustine's Confessions by Dr. Shane Owens
St. Augustine’s Confessions and Us with guest Dr. Shane Owens – Franciscan University Presents
Glory: Women’s Gathering Steubenville Conference with Heather Khym
LifeTeen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention
Confessions by St. Augustine
Poland Pilgrimage: In the Footsteps of St. John Paul II & St. Faustina with Father Dave Pivonka, TOR

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

Thursday on Sunday May 28, 2025

Show notes

Why does the Ascension of Jesus—one of the great feasts of the Church—end up celebrated on a Sunday in most dioceses, while others keep it on Thursday? And what does that tell us about our faith, traditions, and the challenges of Holy Days of Obligation? Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack the significance of the Ascension within the Paschal Mystery, showing why it’s more than just a “tag-on” after Easter, but a powerful reminder of Christ’s victory and our shared destiny in Him. But as usual, sports, movies, and mild chaos before the theology kicks in. Join them as they recap the NBA and NHL playoffs, share stories from the Indy 500, Monaco Grand Prix, and Coca-Cola 600, and offer a review of Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning (complete with seat mix-ups and a D-Box adventure). They also chat about Father Dave’s solo Thai food outing, pay tribute to the late George Wendt—aka Norm from Cheers—and reflect on how these everyday moments can point us toward joy, gratitude, and community. The episode wraps with humor, brotherhood, and a reminder that no matter where you are—whether at a car race, a movie theater, or Mass on Sunday—our true hope is in Jesus Christ. And yes, the Topps Pope Leo XIV baseball card is still on their wish list. Highlighted Sections (00:00) Playoff Plot Twists, Fast Cars, and Father Dave’s Almost-Trip to the Indy 500
Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick off the episode with a rundown of the latest sports headlines, including the Pacers and Knicks battling in the NBA playoffs, and the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers making waves in the NHL. They also discuss the excitement surrounding the Indy 500, the Monaco Grand Prix, and the Coca-Cola 600. (12:07) Movie Review: Mission Impossible + Solo Movie Etiquette
Father Dave recounts his solo movie theater adventure to see Mission Impossible: Final Reckoning, complete with a funny seating mishap and his first-ever D-Box chair experience. They reflect on the perks (and occasional awkwardness) of going to the movies alone, and whether movie theaters are best for deep conversations or just a chance to unwind. (20:03) Thai Food, Pity Tips, and Remembering Norm
The conversation shifts to Father Dave’s recent solo Thai food experience—one of the best meals he’s ever had, which he may or may not have posted about on Instagram—and a reflection on how dining alone can be a quiet joy. They also pay tribute to the late George Wendt (Norm from Cheers)and share laughs about a show that captured the essence of community in the most unexpected places. (26:13) Relics on Display and Catholic Curiosities
The hosts dive into the story of St. Teresa of Avila’s relics being publicly displayed, exploring the beauty, reverence, and quirkiness of Catholic traditions. They discuss how relics inspire faith, connect us to the saints, and remind us that the Church is both ancient and alive. (28:41) Thursday or Sunday? The Ascension’s Place in the Paschal Mystery
Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack why the Ascension is a crucial part of the Paschal Mystery, how it’s celebrated differently across dioceses, and why it’s much more than just a calendar quirk. They encourage listeners to see these Holy Days as not just “rules to follow” but as moments to pause, celebrate, and remember the story of salvation. (37:45) Closing Blessings, Pentecost Prep, and Hope in the Everyday
The episode wraps with reflections on Pentecost, Holy Days of Obligation, and staying grounded in faith—whether you’re at a playoff game, a movie theater, or wrangling kids at home. Father Dave offers a prayer for graduates, families, and the entire They That Hope community, with a reminder that hope is our anchor—on Thursdays, Sundays, or any day in between. Resources Mentioned

Steubenville Conferences – SteubenvilleConferences.com
Discipleship Quads – dquads.com
Topps Pope Leo XIV Baseball Card

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

Summer Movies May 21, 2025

Show notes

The NBA playoffs may be unpredictable, but at least summer blockbusters deliver. In this episode of They That Hope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack the Cleveland Cavaliers’ devastating playoff collapse (RIP hope), debate baseball scandals from Pete Rose to steroid-era legends, and preview the biggest summer movies hitting theaters. From Marvel’s new Thunderbolts to the return of Mission: Impossible and a much-anticipated Fantastic Four reboot, they break down what’s worth watching and what might just be movie theater popcorn filler. Alongside the movie chatter and sports rants, Deacon Bob introduces an exciting revival of a powerful small group ministry: Discipleship Quads. This free resource fosters spiritual growth through intentional, weekly gatherings rooted in Scripture, catechesis, and deep personal sharing. With new momentum and even a Spanish-language version, the Quads model is helping people grow in faith and community across the country. (Check it out at dquads.com.) The episode wraps with reflections on Pope Leo XIV’s installation Mass, his moving words of humility, and the symbolic weight of receiving the Fisherman’s Ring. As the Church welcomes a new pope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob consider what might lie ahead in his papacy—including the possibility of a historic first visit to Ukraine. As always, expect humor, brotherhood, and a reminder that our hope isn’t in playoffs or premieres—it’s in Jesus. Highlighted Sections (00:00) Postseason Chaos and NBA Plot Twists Deacon Bob and Father Dave kick off the episode with a spirited sports recap, reacting to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ playoff collapse and the unexpected shape of the NBA postseason. They debate changing legacies, cheer for the Knicks, and comment on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ latest heartbreak in hockey. (05:23) Baseball Scandals and Hall of Fame Debates
From debates over Pete Rose to steroid-era sluggers like Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa, the hosts unpack the evolving conversation around integrity in baseball and eligibility for Cooperstown. (14:18) Speaking of Movies: Summer Blockbusters Begin Summer movie season kicks off with Marvel’s Thunderbolts, and Father Dave shares why this new team-up film hits just right. The duo also discuss upcoming blockbusters like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and the much-anticipated reboot ofThe Fantastic Four: First Steps, as well as kids' flicks like How to Train Your Dragon and Lilo & Stitch going live-action. (23:11) A Ministry That’s Multiplying: Discipleship Quads
Father Dave and Deacon Bob talk about Discipleship Quads—a free resource from Franciscan University that helps small groups grow in faith together. Recently refreshed with new materials and a Spanish-language version, this initiative is spreading globally and helping transform Catholic community life. (26:30) A Pope Named Bob (Sort Of): Leo XIV’s Installation
Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration Mass moved the world—and the hosts—with moments of humility and reverence. They reflect on his powerful statement of servanthood and the symbolism of receiving the Fisherman’s Ring, traditionally used to seal papal documents. (32:10) Praying for Ukraine and Papal Diplomacy
As the pope meets with global leaders, including U.S. officials, Deacon Bob and Father Dave explore the possibility of his first papal trip being to Ukraine. They also reflect on early reports of peace talks and the potential impact of a papal presence in times of global tension and reconciliation. Resources Mentioned

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

Bob from Chicago May 14, 2025

Show notes

Habemus Papam! The Church has a new pope—and he’s from Chicago.

In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob react with joy, awe, and a healthy dose of disbelief to the election of Pope Leo XIV, a South Side Chicago native and fellow “Bob.” The first American pontiff, Leo XIV is an Augustinian, missionary, canon lawyer, and lifelong baseball fan with deep roots in both Villanova and Peru. His election is already making waves—and memes.

Before diving into Vatican news, the hosts process a different kind of drama: sports heartbreak. Bob relives the Cleveland Cavaliers’ playoff collapse—one for the record books—and the deep disappointment that followed. Father Dave offers perspective (and a hopeful prediction) before they shift gears to highlight Franciscan University's Commencement weekend. From Mary Rice Hasson’s bold defense of the human person to Bishop Andrew Cozzens’ catechetical preaching, the event was a joyful witness to faith and truth.

Finally, they unpack the significance of the name Leo, what this new pope may prioritize, and how the legacy of Pope Leo XIII—with his groundbreaking encyclicals on labor, justice, and the Holy Spirit—may resonate in the years ahead.

From Chicago sports to conclave suspense, from Catholic memes to Marian devotion, this episode is a fast-paced blend of humor, reverence, and hope for the Church’s future under a pope who, as Bob puts it, “plays Wordle with his brother and orders from Wawa.”

Resources Mentioned

The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty
Rerum Novarum by Pope Leo XIII
Pope Leo XIV – Live Coverage and Commentary (Vatican News)

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

Waiting for a New Pope May 07, 2025

Show notes

What does it feel like when the eyes of the world turn to the Sistine Chapel, as everyone waits for white smoke? In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob explore the sacred mystery—and human drama—of a papal conclave. But first: baseball, astronauts, Marvel movies, and pierogies.

Father Dave shares a powerful conversation with retired astronaut and U.S. Air Force General Kevin P. Chilton, who received the Eucharist in space. The hosts also discuss the lesser-known fact that Buzz Aldrin took communion on the moon, blending space exploration with sacred devotion.

Meanwhile, Deacon Bob reflects on being left out of both that interview and a May the 4th Star Wars-themed baseball game (yes, stormtroopers and all), and offers a spoiler-free review of Marvel’s new film Thunderbolts.

The hosts unpack the process of the papal conclave, exploring how the Holy Spirit leads (without micromanaging) the selection of a pope. They also respond to the controversial AI-generated image of Donald Trump dressed as pope—shared by official White House social media—and call for reverence during this pivotal moment in Church history.

As always, the episode blends solemnity with laughter—from memories of first Communions and unforgettable Masses to hot takes on sports, politics, and pilgrimage.

Resources Mentioned

In Person interview with Astronaut Kevin Chilton – Faith and Reason
The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty
“Buzz Aldrin Took Holy Communion on the Moon. NASA Kept it Quiet” by Erin Blakemore for History.com.

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

Sede Vacante Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

The Chair of St. Peter is empty, the world is watching, and the Church is praying.

In this episode of They That Hope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob reflect on the death of Pope Francis and the moving events surrounding his funeral in Rome. From the emotional procession through the streets—past landmarks like the Colosseum and the TOR friars’ house—to the intimate ceremony at St. Mary Major, they recount moments that highlighted the late Holy Father’s love for the poor and his devotion to simplicity.

With the conclave just days away, the hosts also look ahead to what’s next for the Church. Will we see the first Italian pope in nearly 50 years? What does the increasingly global College of Cardinals mean for the future of the papacy? And what role does the Holy Spirit truly play in the selection of a pope?

Of course, it wouldn’t be They That Hope without a few tangents—this week includes Deacon Bob’s snowy NBA playoff experience in Cleveland (Cavalanche!), draft-day drama from the NFL, and the 20th anniversary of Revenge of the Sith (yes, Bob saw it in theaters—no, he didn’t wear a Jedi robe... but he wanted to).

They also reflect on the feast of St. Joseph the Worker and its bold stand against communist ideology, the forgotten value of learning for its own sake, and the cultural obsession with work and identity.

As the Church prays “Come, Holy Spirit” over the conclave, Father Dave and Deacon Bob invite listeners to join in hope—and in prayer for whoever the next successor of Peter will be.

Highlighted sections

(00:00) Cavalanche! NBA Playoffs and Draft Drama
Deacon Bob kicks things off with tales from a Cleveland Cavaliers playoff game—complete with fake snow and “Cavalanche” chants. The duo also dives into the NFL Draft: its surprising popularity, emotional player stories, and one disturbing prank call that made national news.

(17:37) Star Wars Nostalgia and the Return of the Sith
Deacon Bob celebrates Revenge of the Sith's 20th anniversary with a trip to the theater, reflecting on movie memories, lightsaber-worthy soundtracks, and how the prequels might’ve aged better than expected—at least compared to the sequels.

(22:03) Farewell, Holy Father: Remembering Pope Francis
Father Dave shares moving moments from Pope Francis’ funeral and procession through Rome—from the Popemobile carrying the casket past the Colosseum to the tender welcome from the poor outside St. Mary Major. The hosts reflect on the pope’s legacy of humility and love for the marginalized.

(25:32) What Comes Next: The Conclave and the Future of the Papacy
As the cardinals prepare to elect the next pope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss possible frontrunners, the global diversity of the College of Cardinals, and how the Holy Spirit works through discernment—not magic. And yes, there are betting odds.

(29:05) The Holiness of Work: St. Joseph and Vocation
In honor of the Feast of St. Joseph the Worker, the hosts explore the Church’s response to communist ideology, the dignity of labor, and the need to recover the joy of learning and working for its own sake.

(34:12) May the Fourth and Prayers for the Church
As Star Wars Day approaches, the hosts wrap with light-hearted banter and a heartfelt prayer for the conclave—entrusting the Church once more to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Resources Mentioned

Laborem Exercens by St. John Paul II

Listen to more They That Hope episodes and discover other Catholic podcasts, videos, and resources at Faith and Reason.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

They That Hope: A Catholic Podcast – theythathope

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected