Ave Maria in the Afternoon – September 22, 2025 – Hour 1

Author: Bryant Schoenle Published on: September 22, 2025 Published in: Ave Maria in the Afternoon

Why did Tolkien choose this day for Bilbo’s birthday? Marcus explains. We also talk with Wes Smith about the continued spread of euthanasia and Stephen White about Pope Benedict’s historic visit to England.

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Marcus’ Monologue: Happy Birthday, Bilbo!

JRR Tolkien designated September 22 as the birthday of his beloved hobbits Bilbo and Frodo and, like anything from his writings, that decision was very intentional. Why did Tolkien choose this date for his Hobbit Birthday? Marcus discusses.

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Will We Care For or Kill Dementia Patients?

Noted bioethicist and lawyer Thaddeus Mason Pope has written an essay listing eleven ways people can “avoid late-stage dementia,” and almost all involve intentionally ending life. In the essay, he dismisses options such as hospice care for imposing a “burden” on the patient and their family. Wes Smith join us with more.

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Wielding ALS Suffering to Expand Assisted Suicide into Euthanasia

Will We Care For or Kill Dementia Patients?

Kilmeade: ‘Just Kill’ Mentally Ill Homeless Who Refuse Help

Wesley J. Smith Smith is the Chair and Senior Fellow at the Discovery Institute’s Center on Human Exceptionalism. He’s the author of 13 books including “Culture of Death: The age of Do-Harm Medicine.” Follow him on Twitter @thewesleyjsmith and check out his articles at National Review, First Things and more.

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Pope Benedict’s Historic Visit to Britain

Fifteen years ago this month, Pope Benedict XVI became the first pope to make a state visit to Britain. During his visit, he preached on the role of the laity and the relationship between Faith and Reason. We talk more with Stephen White.

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When the Pope Went to Westminster