They That Hope: A Catholic Podcast - theythathope

Latest Episodes:

Remembering Pope Francis Apr 23, 2025

Show notes

Pope Francis has passed into eternal life—and Father Dave and Deacon Bob take time to remember him with reverence, gratitude, and a few good stories.

In this episode, recorded shortly after the announcement of his death, the hosts reflect on the Holy Father’s legacy: his love for the marginalized, his embrace of simplicity, and his tireless call to joy. They recall his early days as a pope who rode the subway, paid his own hotel bill, and preached Christ with bold, missionary zeal. They also explore the complexities of his pontificate—from synodality and youth ministry to off-the-cuff comments and papal “mess-making.”

Before diving into papal memories, Father Dave and Deacon Bob share Easter highlights, including Good Friday homilies, a stunning Exsultet, packed liturgies at Franciscan University and Blessed Sacrament Parish, and many guests at Deacon Bob’s house. From there, they unpack the impact of Evangelii Gaudium, Christus Vivit, and the Jubilee Years, along with Francis’ unmistakable emphasis on mercy, mission, and the personal love of Jesus.

From Triduum grace to tears of gratitude, from liturgical reform to South American subway rides, this episode is a heartfelt farewell to a pope who reminded the Church that, in Christ, joy is always possible. Join us in praying for Pope Francis and the Church he loved.

Highlighted sections

(00:00) News of Pope Francis' Passing
Father Dave and Deacon Bob begin with the solemn announcement of Pope Francis' death, sharing their heartfelt reactions. They set aside their original agenda to honor his memory and reflect on his papacy.

(02:11) Easter Reflections and Good Friday Grace
Deacon Bob describes a spiritually rich Triduum, including his deeply moving Good Friday homily and moments of reverence during the veneration. Father Dave recalls the powerful liturgies at Franciscan University and a Holy Thursday story from Rwanda that shaped his preaching.

(11:06) Joy and the Pontificate of Pope Francis
The hosts reflect on joy as a hallmark of Pope Francis’ papacy—both in theme and in personal testimony. They recall how joy became a grace he received at the beginning of his pontificate, despite his naturally serious demeanor.

(16:47) A Pope Who Wasn’t Afraid to “Make a Mess”
Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss Francis’ willingness to ask hard questions, provoke dialogue, and advocate for the marginalized. They highlight his synods, pastoral approach, and commitment to listening, even when misunderstood.

(35:14) His Final Easter Message
The episode closes with Pope Francis’ final Urbi et Orbi blessing—a proclamation of hope, mercy, and resurrection. Father Dave and Deacon Bob pray for peace and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in the days to come.

Resources Mentioned

Evangelii Gaudium – Apostolic exhortation on the joy of the Gospel

Christus Vivit – Pope Francis’ letter to young people

The Mission – Film about Jesuit missionaries in South America (IMDb)

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

Jesus 1, Pirates 0 Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

This episode was supposed to be Live from PNC Park… Until wind, hail, and freezing temps benched those plans.

Instead, Father Dave and Deacon Bob recap what didn’t happen at the Pirates game—and what did happen at Petco Park, Jackie Robinson Day, and the Pierogi Race. They also cheer for Rory McIlroy’s long-awaited Masters win, reminisce about $300 Air Jordans and train robbers, and share a touching moment from an alumni visit to California.

They close with rich reflections on the beauty of the Triduum—from foot washing and Good Friday sorrow to the light of the Easter Vigil.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Pirates Game Rained Out, Pasta Wins the Night
A freezing forecast and 40-mph winds cancel Father Dave and Deacon Bob’s plans for a live episode at PNC Park. Instead, they settle for Italian food, play-by-play reenactments, and philosophical questions like: why wouldn’t you go to Red Robin?

(03:01) Baseball, Scholarships, and One Grateful Mom
Father Dave reflects on a recent trip to California where he met inspiring future Franciscan students—including Abby, a St. Michael Scholarship recipient whose mother wept with joy. They tie it all back to Giving Day and the real, personal impact of donor support.

(07:06) Rory’s Redemption and Golf on the Tarmac
Rory McIlroy finally wins the Masters in a storybook finish. Father Dave watches it unfold from a stalled plane at O’Hare, while Deacon Bob gives golf an “ish” and vents about ESPN’s limited Masters coverage.

(13:33) NFL Faith, Stefanski’s Vocation, and the Baron Club Dinner
Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski visits campus and shares how faith shows up in the NFL, from pregame Mass to personal vocation. Father Dave previews an upcoming interview and reflects on ministry, family, and football.

(19:05) Holy Week Reflections: From Feet to Firelight
A powerful walk through the Easter Triduum—from the humility of Holy Thursday and the silence of Holy Saturday to the joy of the Easter Vigil. Deacon Bob celebrates the Exsultet, and Father Dave reminds us: don’t skip ahead—stay at the foot of the cross.

Resources Mentioned

Franciscan University Giving Day – April 23, 2025

St. Michael Scholarship – Supporting first-generation college students at Franciscan

Baron Club Dinner – Annual fundraiser celebrating Baron Athletics

Exsultet (Easter Proclamation) – Chanted during the Easter Vigil

The Triduum – USCCB resource on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil

Seven Churches Visitation – Holy Thursday pilgrimage tradition

“Heaven Is for Real” – Movie based on a young boy’s near-death experience

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

Palm Sunday Apr 09, 2025

Show notes

What happens when you celebrate Palm Sunday and break a historic NHL record in the same week—then try to plan a live podcast at a ballgame?

This week, Deacon Bob Rice and Father Dave Pivonka, reunite after time on the road to talk sports, saints, and the start of Holy Week. They celebrate Alex Ovechkin surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record, reflect on the highs and heartbreaks of March Madness, and make ambitious plans for a live podcast episode from a Pirates game. Spoiler alert: Torpedo bats and Trevor Williams may be involved.

Meanwhile, Father Dave shares about the overlooked power of Palm Sunday, inviting listeners to stay close to Christ throughout Holy Week—not skipping ahead to the Resurrection, but walking daily with Jesus through His Passion. From the colt that never bucked to the crowds that cheered then jeered, it's a timely call to praise Jesus for who He is, not just what we want Him to be.

Also in this episode: Star Trek celebrity sightings, Minecraft movie madness, and what happens when Jack Black meets Jason Momoa (or a mimosa).

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Sugar-Free Gummy Bears, Hockey History, and Reunited Hosts
Father Dave and Deacon Bob are back together and immediately dive into some classic They That Hope banter—including unforgettable Amazon reviews of Haribo sugar-free gummy bears. They also celebrate Alex Ovechkin’s record-breaking moment on the ice and marvel at how the NHL pulled out all the stops for the Great Eight.

(04:54) March Madness Surprises and Catholic Coaches on the Court
The NCAA tournament wraps up with buzzer-beaters and big surprises, including historic representation among head coaches. The hosts reflect on what it means to win—and lose—with class, and how faith sometimes shows up courtside.

(09:38) Torpedo Bats, Million-Dollar Cards, and a Possible Live Episode
A new MIT-engineered “torpedo bat” sparks baseball buzz as the Yankees open strong and then crash hard. Meanwhile, a rare Paul Skenes card sells for a jaw-dropping price, and Deacon Bob pitches the idea of recording a live podcast from PNC Park.

(11:45) Arthur Brooks, Evangelization, and the Art of Disagreement
Father Dave shares a moment of deep insight from his recent interview with Harvard professor Arthur Brooks, who spoke on campus about evangelization in a divided world. They reflect on the importance of friendship, dialogue, and belonging when sharing the Gospel with those who think differently.

(23:19) Movies, Mimosas, and the Minecraft Mayhem
Deacon Bob survives the cinematic chaos that is the new Minecraft Movie, starring Jack Black and Jason Momoa. The hosts also look ahead to Mission: Impossible, Thunderbolts, and the hopeful return of truly great summer blockbusters.

(25:51) Palm Sunday Reflections and Staying with Jesus in Holy Week
The hosts reflect on the beginning of Holy Week and the often-overlooked beauty of Palm Sunday. They explore what it means to praise Jesus not just for what He does, but for who He is—and invite listeners to walk with Christ, one day at a time, through the Passion.

Resources Mentioned

In Person with Arthur Brooks – Faith and Reason

Love Your Enemies by Arthur Brooks

A Minecraft Movie

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

Thunderbolts

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

The Woman Caught in Adultery Apr 02, 2025

Show notes

"Neither do I condemn you." These powerful words from John 8 echo through this week’s episode, as Deacon Bob and Father Dave reflect on Jesus’ radical mercy and the call to transformation. The Gospel story of the woman caught in adultery takes center stage, prompting a rich conversation about sin, dignity, and the scandal of grace.

From there, the hosts weave this message of mercy into stories from real life—on the field, in the classroom, and even around a D&D table. They celebrate Franciscan’s women’s softball team, relive a touching moment between Sidney Crosby and Deacon Bob’s son, and laugh their way through an unexpected defense of role-playing games (featuring dragons, dice, and Dr. Mike Welker).

Even as the episode touches on travel tales, NHL milestones, and pretzel cravings in Austria, everything circles back to one central truth: God’s mercy restores what shame tries to erase.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) March Madness, Hockey Moments, and The Hope of Opening Day
Deacon Bob kicks things off with NCAA updates and his son's unforgettable moment with Sidney Crosby. Father Dave shares travel tales and hopes for the Nationals (and the White Sox?!).

(06:32) Sportsmanship and Surprises in the NHL
From Ovechkin’s selfless plays to honoring retiring legend Marc-André Fleury, the hosts reflect on the character of hockey players and how moments of class can transcend rivalries.

(13:53) Franciscan Updates, Study Abroad, and Parents’ Weekend in Vienna
Father Dave checks in from Austria, recounting a beautiful Night of Mercy in the Diocese of St. Pölten and sharing how Franciscan’s Austrian Program transforms lives—including a student who decided to transfer after just one semester abroad.

(18:29) Dice, Dragons, and Deacon Bob’s Geekiest Joy
Bob explains the world of role-playing games—from character sheets to 20-sided dice—and why he finds creativity and community in tabletop storytelling. Father Dave listens… with mixed emotions.

(25:58) The Gospel of Mercy: Jesus and the Woman Caught in Adultery
The hosts read and reflect on John 8, exploring how Jesus both confronts sin and restores dignity. They discuss the cultural and legal dynamics at play, the Pharisees’ trap, and the power of Christ’s compassion: “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin anymore.”

Resources Mentioned

Gospel Reading: John 8:1–11

Franciscan University’s Study Abroad Program in Austria

Franciscan University’s Online MA in Theology Program

Fall 2026 Admissions Now Open: franciscan.edu

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

The Prodigal Son Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

What do a prodigal son, a Belize beach revival, and Marian apparitions in Rwanda have in common? 

They all point us back to the mercy of the Father. This week on They That Hope, Deacon Bob Rice and Father Dave Pivonka reflect on powerful journeys of repentance, healing, and homecoming—from the Gospel of Luke to the real-life stories unfolding in mission fields and pilgrimage sites.

Recording from opposite sides of the globe, the hosts reunite after two transformative trips. Deacon Bob shares about leading Franciscan University students on mission in Belize, where their joyful witness brought hope to a struggling culture. Father Dave recounts his pilgrimage to Rwanda with Immaculée Ilibagiza, diving deep into the Church-approved Marian apparitions at Kibeho and the painful echoes of genocide.

Amid reflections on mercy and reconciliation, they also manage to squeeze in March Madness predictions, NBA tanking controversy, and a surprisingly heartfelt conversation about snorkeling (yes, snorkeling gets emotional too). From returning to God after hitting rock bottom to living out faith in a divided world, this episode is a moving invitation to come home to the Father—again and again.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Mission Trips, March Madness, and Podcasting from Abroad
Father Dave checks in from Austria while Deacon Bob broadcasts from Texas. They swap stories from their respective journeys: Bob’s evangelization trip to Belize and Father Dave’s pilgrimage to Rwanda.

(02:33) March Madness Recap and Catholic Teams on the Court
The NCAA tournament is in full swing with top seeds like Duke, Houston, and Auburn advancing. The hosts recap St. Francis University’s epic underdog run and reflect on the faith and fumbles of Catholic teams.

(07:59) NBA Tanking, Cooper Flagg, and Draft Day Drama
Deacon Bob breaks down the controversial strategy of “tanking” in the NBA, with teams vying for next year’s top pick: high school phenom Cooper Flagg. Meanwhile, scrappy teams like the Warriors and Lakers keep playoff hopes alive.

(10:20) Chastity, Witness, and the Joy of Mission in Belize
Deacon Bob shares how Franciscan students' witness to chastity made a profound impact in a culture where early sexual activity is the norm. Their week culminated in a powerful beach praise night that brought the town together.

(17:03) Marian Apparitions and Forgiveness in Rwanda
Father Dave reflects on his powerful visit to Kibeho, site of the Church-approved Marian apparitions in Rwanda. He shares stories of healing, warnings of violence, and the radical forgiveness modeled by Immaculée Ilibagiza.

(30:43) The Prodigal Son and the Mercy of the Father
This week’s Gospel reading prompts a deep discussion on God’s mercy, the danger of spiritual pride, and the invitation to love beyond mere obedience. The hosts explore how the older son’s struggle is often our own.

Resources Mentioned

Left to Tell by Immaculée Ilibagiza

Our Lady of Kibeho – Church-approved Marian apparitions

Franciscan University Mission Trips

March Madness Bracket Updates

Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen

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

The Transfiguration Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

What does God’s glory look like in your everyday life?

This week on They That Hope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob reflect on the Gospel account of the Transfiguration, exploring how moments of divine glory give us strength and perspective during life’s hardest trials. They share how Christ reveals his presence both in the extraordinary—like mountaintop encounters—and the ordinary rhythms of daily life.

As Deacon Bob prepares to lead a mission team to Belize and Father Dave readies for a pilgrimage to Rwanda, they reflect on the beauty, chaos, and spiritual depth of saying "yes" to God’s call.

Plus: Gene Hackman tributes, sports heartbreak, custom cookies, and the surprisingly tricky technique of applying ashes.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Belize Missions and 2 A.M. Wake-Ups
Deacon Bob shares the joys and challenges of preparing for a teaching mission in Belize, including an unholy 2 a.m. check-in. Meanwhile, Father Dave offers prayers (and a touch of envy) from Steubenville.

(08:05) Pilgrimage to Rwanda and the Power of Sacred Places
Father Dave looks ahead to his trip to Kibeho, the site of a Marian apparition that foretold the Rwandan genocide. He reflects on how sacred spaces open hearts to healing and hope.

(09:20) Sports Heartbreak Hall of Fame
The hosts nominate America’s most painful teams to root for—from the Dallas Cowboys to the Cleveland Browns and beyond. It’s part therapy session, part sports history, and 100% relatable.

(15:00) Lent, Ashes, and Sugar Cookies
From ash-thumb technique to cookies with their faces on them, Father Dave and Deacon Bob celebrate Lent with reverence and humor. Plus, a shoutout to a generous listener and a forgotten name.

(19:46) Remembering Gene Hackman
They honor the legendary actor Gene Hackman with a tour of his greatest films, including Hoosiers, Unforgiven, and The Firm. His legacy sparks a fun exchange about favorite actors and movie memories.

(30:45) Gospel Reflection: The Transfiguration
The hosts reflect on Luke’s account of the Transfiguration and the mystery of seeing God's glory. They share how moments of divine light—like mountaintop encounters—sustain us through darkness and doubt.

Resources Mentioned

FaithAndReason.com – Weekly Lent Scripture Reflections

Kibeho, Rwanda – Marian apparition site

Divine Mercy Shrine, Kraków, Poland

Hoosiers, Unforgiven, The Firm – Films starring Gene Hackman

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

Into the Desert Mar 05, 2025

Show notes

As Lent begins, Deacon Bob and Father Dave turn to the Gospel of Luke and the image of Jesus being led into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit. From fasting and temptation to spiritual dryness and surrender, the hosts reflect on how the desert becomes a sacred space of encounter and transformation.

This week’s episode moves from the spiritual to the political, as Father Dave shares his experience at the Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., and the launch of Franciscan’s Homeland Mission Program. Then, shifting gears, the episode dives into the controversial press conference between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, with reflections on humility, diplomacy, justice, and how Catholics can engage a divided political world without losing heart.

Sprinkled in—as always—are the laughs: a breakdown of the NFL’s “tush push,” Cavaliers comebacks, the rise of phone booth boxing, and a surprising story about wrestling in a former church.

As Lent invites us deeper into prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, this episode ends with a moving reflection on the Gospel and a reminder that even in our own deserts, the Spirit leads and God is present.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Fasting, Cheeseburgers, and the Age of Exemption
Father Dave reflects humorously on turning 60 and technically being exempt from fasting—though he still chooses to fast as a spiritual discipline. Deacon Bob playfully insists that doing what you don’t have to do is what makes it truly holy.

(01:57) NFL Tush Push, Cavaliers Comebacks, and Sports Surprises
The hosts dive into the NFL's controversial "tush push" play and debate whether it should be banned. They also celebrate the Cleveland Cavaliers’ incredible comeback wins and share thoughts on how grit and teamwork shape great sports moments.

(04:44) Phone Booth Boxing and Wrestling in Church?
From Romania’s newest combat sport to a church-turned-MMA arena, the episode takes an absurd but entertaining detour. The discussion sparks deeper questions about sacred spaces and cultural trends that blur the lines between worship and spectacle.

(06:10) Evangelization on the Road: Faith-Filled Uber Rides
Bob and Father Dave share stories of surprising spiritual conversations with Uber drivers that opened doors to talk about faith, suffering, and the Trinity. These everyday moments reveal how simple encounters can become grace-filled opportunities for evangelization.

(08:10) Franciscan in D.C.: Homeland Mission and Catholic Prayer Breakfast
Father Dave describes the launch of Franciscan’s Homeland Mission Program, aimed at giving students faith-integrated experiences in public service. He also recounts the beauty and depth of the Catholic Prayer Breakfast, including his encounter with JD Vance and a moving moment of public prayer.

(11:29) Zelensky, Trump, and a Press Conference That Shook D.C.
In one of the most talked-about political moments of the week, the hosts break down the tense exchange between Zelensky, Trump, and JD Vance. The conversation opens up complex questions about justice, diplomacy, war, and how Catholics can engage with humility and integrity.

(28:42) Into the Desert: Jesus’ Temptation and Our Lenten Journey
Drawing from Luke 4, the hosts reflect on Jesus’ hunger, vulnerability, and spiritual strength in the desert. They invite listeners to embrace Lent not as a burden, but as an opportunity to be led by the Spirit into a place of deeper encounter with God.

Resources Mentioned

Gospel Reading: Luke 4:1–13

Catholic Prayer Breakfast (Washington, D.C.)

Franciscan University’s Homeland Mission Program

Don't miss the engaging discussions brought to you by faithandreason.com and osvpodcasts.com. Catch more episodes at theythathopepodcast.com.

Robo-Baseball Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

This week’s episode swings from dodgeball chaos at Franciscan University to international hockey heartbreak as Team USA falls to Canada. Father Dave and Deacon Bob also unpack the Yankees’ shocking decision to allow facial hair—and ponder whether robot umpires and AI-controlled baseball are the future of America’s pastime. Oh, and Juan Soto buys a teammate a $92,000 SUV for a jersey number. All-star moves, indeed.

In entertainment news, the hosts react to Amazon’s takeover of the James Bond franchise, reminisce about their favorite 007s (yes, George Lazenby gets a mention), and reflect on the trend of turning beloved characters into corporate IP machines. Spoiler: they’re not thrilled.

The heart of the episode is a deep, compassionate look at in vitro fertilization following President Trump’s executive order expanding IVF access. Father Dave and Deacon Bob thoughtfully explain the Church’s teaching on human dignity, the moral challenges of embryo preservation, and the pain of infertility—all while offering hope, prayer, and clarity for couples carrying this difficult cross.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Dodgeball, Hockey, and the Return of Beards
Father Dave reports from Franciscan’s wild dodgeball tournament, while Deacon Bob relives Team USA’s loss to Canada—with Canadian friends in the room. Plus, big news: the Yankees are finally allowing beards, and Catholic Beard Balm gets a shout-out.

(06:21) Robots at Bat: Baseball’s High-Tech Future
From AI strike zones to robot pitchers, the hosts debate the future of America’s pastime—and whether baseball is losing its human touch. Spoiler: Bob wants an all-robot league.

(07:37) All-Star Salaries and Jersey Numbers
Juan Soto drops $92,000 on a teammate’s car to snag jersey #22. The hosts share stories of sportsmanship, ego, and what happens when your number has a price tag.

(11:39) Bond, Amazon Bond
With Amazon now owning James Bond, the hosts question the future of the franchise. They rank their favorite Bonds, lament over-franchising, and long for storytelling that isn’t driven by corporate profit.

(17:42) IVF, Life, and the Church’s Teaching
In response to Trump’s IVF executive order, Fr. Dave and Deacon Bob offer a compassionate, clear look at Catholic teaching on fertility, frozen embryos, and the dignity of human life.

(29:33) Lent, Loopholes, and Signs of Hope
Ash Wednesday is coming! The hosts clarify fasting rules (yes, there’s an age loophole), pray for Pope Francis, and highlight hopeful moves toward child protection in the digital world.

Resources Mentioned

Catholic Beard Balm – Beard care with a sacred scent (yes, it smells like chrism!)

USCCB Statement on IVF – Church teaching on the moral concerns of in vitro fertilization

James Bond films

Decision Points by George W. Bush – Memoir reflecting on presidential decisions, including policies around embryonic research

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

Hey Now, You’re an All-Star Feb 19, 2025

Show notes

It’s an All-Star weekend—from the NHL to the NBA to the 50th Anniversary of Saturday Night Live—and Father Dave and Deacon Bob are here for all of it.

In this episode, they dive into the revamped All-Star formats (including USA vs. Canada on ice), heated hockey fights, and the quirky charm of watching sports evolve. They also unpack the latest SNL celebration, share some Marvel movie hot takes, and reflect on deep questions raised by the Holy Father’s Ordo Amoris—a framework of love that recently became part of American political debate.

Father Dave offers updates from his recent travels, including a powerful retreat experience and upcoming mission to Rwanda with Immaculée Ilibagiza. The hosts also share some signs of hope from Franciscan University’s student life and spiritual formation, including an outpouring of the Holy Spirit and young catechists preparing for service in the Church.

From slapshots to spiritual fire, from comedy legends to calls to mercy, this episode moves with heart, humor, and hope.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) NHL vs. NBA: All-Star Weekend Shakeups

Father Dave and Deacon Bob break down recent changes to the All-Star games. From NHL’s "Four Nations" brawls to the NBA’s round-robin format, they debate whether these events still matter—and how sports could rethink the concept of “All-Star.”

(10:35) Austria, SNL, and Comedy Legends

A look at the 2025 Austria Summer Experience is followed by reflections on Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary. The hosts remember comedy legends, share favorite skits, and explore how SNL evolved from Bill Murray to YouTube stardom.

(16:34) Marvel Movies, Rwanda, and Blackfish

Deacon Bob reviews Captain America: Brave New World, while Father Dave shares his experience watching Hidden Figures, Hotel Rwanda, and Blackfish—all tied to his upcoming pilgrimage to Rwanda with Immaculée Ilibagiza.

(25:03) Ordo Amoris: Love, Politics, and Pope Francis

After J.D. Vance references Ordo Amoris online, the hosts unpack Pope Francis' actual teaching on ordered love, immigration, and human dignity. They push back on politicized theology and highlight a powerful quote from the Holy Father.

(33:01) Signs of Hope on Campus

The Life in the Spirit Seminar gathers over 200 students to pray for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Meanwhile, catechetics majors show their passion for parish ministry at Immersion Day—proof that the future of the Church is bright.

Resources Mentioned

Austria Summer Experience – Franciscan University
Hidden Figures (Film about Black women at NASA)
Hotel Rwanda (Genocide and forgiveness, starring Don Cheadle)
Blackfish (Documentary on SeaWorld and orcas)
Pope Francis’ Letter to Bishops on Ordo Amoris
Captain America: Brave New World (Marvel Studios)

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

Stressed Out Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

This week on They That Hope, Deacon Bob Rice and Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, tackle the rising tide of anxiety affecting young people—and all of us!  From Super Bowl surprises to shocking NBA trades, it’s a whirlwind of headlines, but the heart of this conversation is deeper: Why are so many teens (and adults) overwhelmed, and what can we do about it?

Drawing from Dr. Greg Bottaro’s new “In Focus” series, alongside insights from The Anxious Generation and Bad Therapy, the hosts explore how overprotection in the real world and chaos online have created a generation experiencing heightened anxiety. They also reflect on parenting, prayer, digital safety, and the role of faith in fostering real peace and resilience.

Meanwhile, Father Dave celebrates his 60th birthday (officially “elderly”), Deacon Bob returns from a retreat in Arizona and a week in Texas, and together they close with a hopeful call for Christian unity in a fractured world.

Highlighted Sections

(00:00) Father Dave Is Officially Old (and Kind of Okay With It)
The guys reunite after a missed week, and Deacon Bob wastes no time celebrating Father Dave’s 60th birthday. From Googling “what is old?” to surprise parties and retreat moments, the milestone gets a heartfelt and hilarious treatment.

(01:36) Super Bowl Blowout and the Lost Art of the Commercial
The Eagles crush the Chiefs in a game full of fireworks—literally. Deacon Bob vents about the lopsided score, Father Dave praises the Clydesdale commercial, and both give nods to halftime outfits that were refreshingly modest.

(07:02) Luka to the Lakers?! Shockwaves in the NBA
In a trade that stunned fans and players alike, Luka Dončić heads to L.A. while Anthony Davis lands in Dallas. The guys unpack how the NBA's power dynamic is shifting, and celebrate the Cavs' rise with three All-Stars on deck.

(10:20) Faith, Anxiety, and Catholic Mindfulness
Father Dave previews the “In Focus” series with Dr. Greg Bottaro, diving into the rise in youth anxiety. Deacon Bob brings in themes from The Anxious Generation and Bad Therapy, reflecting on parenting, digital dangers, and why we need both grace and grit.

(19:55) Safer Internet Day, Pornography, and Protecting Kids Online
From age verification laws to the “Wait Until 8th” campaign, Deacon Bob shares practical ideas for creating safer digital environments—and why this battle has to be fought together, in schools, homes, and communities.

(26:55) Utopia, TX and the Beauty of Christian Unity
Deacon Bob recounts a week with Young Life leaders in Texas, reflecting on the joy of shared mission between Catholics and Protestants. Father Dave underscores the Church’s call to unity without compromise—celebrating common ground without denying the real differences.

(33:11) One Easter for All? A Humble Hope for the Future
They discuss the rare year when all Christians celebrate Easter on the same day—and the Vatican’s long-standing willingness to unify Easter calendars as a sign of communion. Spoiler: Pope Francis isn’t the first to suggest it.

(36:18) Signs of Hope: Lifelong Ministry and Lifelong Friends
Deacon Bob shares the joy of meeting youth ministers with decades of service. Father Dave reflects on 35 years of friendship and the grace of walking together in faith. It’s a fitting close to an episode that starts with age—and ends with legacy.

Resources Mentioned