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September 23, 2019

Talking about the “Things That Matter Most” on September 23, 2019 

4:00 – Social Science Apologetics: Study finds no ‘gay gene’ – What that means for Catholic morality

 A recent scientific study found there is “not a singular genetic marker for homosexuality.” What, precisely, does this mean? What do we know – and what don’t we know – about the roots of same-sex attraction and what does it mean for Catholic morality? We talk with Dr. Greg Popcak.

4:20 – Ad Astra: Hollywood’s latest attempt to reach the heavens

The search for things “beyond” is a common theme in film, the latest entry being Brad Pitt’s Ad Astra. It’s a high-minded sci-fi film with notable religious themes, though these play out disappointingly. Why does Hollywood so often fall short in films exploring themes of things beyond this life? We talk with Steven Greydanus.

4:40 – Padre Pio’s Influence on My Family

Today is the feast of Padre Pio, the beloved modern-day saint who had the stigmata and is known for his motto to “pray, hope and don’t worry.” His life had a strong influence on Jack Krach, who was born on his eventual feast day. Jack’s life had many parallels to St Pio’s. His daughter Janna joins us.

5:00 – Is Indonesia about to Criminalize Sex Outside of Marriage?

Indonesia is preparing to pass a new penal code that would criminalize sex outside of marriage. The world’s most populous Muslim-majority country also has significant Christian, Buddhist and Hindu communities but in recent years has trended toward deeper religious piety and Islamic activism. We take a look at the new laws with Dr Robert Hefner.

5:20 – Padre Pio’s Hospital Comes to the US  

Under the Episcopal leadership of Cardinal Raymond Burke and Bishop Earl Boyea, Catholic Healthcare International is in the process of implementing its Casa USA vision, which will shine as a “Beacon of Light” of faithful Catholic healthcare delivery for all Catholic providers of care and medical education in the US. This initiative is modeled after the vision of St Pio’s “Cathedral of Love.” On St Pio’s feast day, we talk with Jere Palazzolo about the CHI project.

5:40 – China Replaces 10 Commandments with Xi Jingping Quotes

A new report from China shows how the Communist regime continues to crack down on Christians in new ways. The report says that the government has demanded the 10 Commandments be replaced in churches with quotes by president Xi Jingping and that portraits of Xi, Mao and other leaders be displayed to ensure citizens remain loyal to the regime. Reggie Littlejohn has more.