US Bishops/Groundwork of a New Administration

11/16/2024

The U.S. bishops have just concluded their annual fall assembly. The Register’s editor in chief Shannon Mullen and senior editor Jonathan Liedl bring us a recap of important takeaways. Then, we turn to again to teasing out the 2024 election results. This time we talk about how President-elect Trump is already laying the groundwork for his administration as the Democrats grabble with big losses.

US Presidential Election Results/The Pope and Trump

11/9/2024

We talk with Shannon Mullen and Peter Laffin to discuss the 2024 US Presidential Election results and then we talk with Frank Rocca to discuss the relationship between Pope Francis and President-Elect Donald Trump.

Election Day Closes In/Final Report Isn’t the Synod’s End

11/2/2024

As U.S. Election Day nears, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are making their last pitches to voters. We examine their final messaging as well as their outreach to Catholics with a report from Register staff writer Peter Laffin. But first we get insights into the final report of the Synod on Synodality. Register senior editor Jonathan Liedl provides his analysis.

Election Misinformation/Taking Heart Through the Sacred Heart

10/26/2024

We take a look with Register writer Patti Armstrong at Harris-Walz election ad misinformation. Then we turn to Pope Francis’ new encyclical Dilexit Nos (He Loved Us) that calls for a renewal of our hearts through deeper devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Register staff writer Joseph Pronechen brings us insights into Sacred Heart devotion as well as some pastoral advice on election day anxieties.

33 Catholic Hospitals Offered Kids Trans Surgeries/Synod Approaches Final Week

10/19/2024

Over 5,700 children from 2019 to 2023 had sex-change surgeries and more than twice that many were prescribed puberty blockers, according to a new report by a medical watchdog group Do No Harm. EWTN News identified 150 Catholic hospitals among those that provided these services. National Catholic Register staff writer Matthew McDonald has the story. Then we get another synod report from Register senior editor Jonathan Liedl as the Synod on Synodality enters the final week.

Synod in Swing/New Cardinals/Suicide Pods

10/12/2024

The Synod on Synodality completes week one and Pope Francis continues to transform the College of Cardinals. EWTN News Senior Vatican Analyst Frank Rocca provides analysis. Assisted suicide continues its grim progress in Western Europe as the so-called ‘Suicide Pod’ Claims Its First Victim, an American woman, who traveled to Switzerland to die. Register staff writer Peter Laffin has the story.

Pope, Peripheries and the Synod/US Vice Presidential Debate

10/5/2024

This week Pope Francis opened the final Vatican assembly of the Synod on Synodality and that comes upon the heels of two papal trips. Synodality and reaching out to the geographic and moral peripheries are touchstones of this papacy. EWTN News’ Courtney Mares and Frank Rocca discuss these key parts of Pope Francis’ legacy. Then we discuss the US election with a month to go before Nov. 5 and the vice-presidential debate with Peter Laffin.

Synod Set to Start/Supreme Court Cases to Watch/Recommended Movies

9/28/2024

The Register’s Jonathan Liedl gives a preview of what we can expect from the Synod discussions. Register columnist Andrea Picciotti Bayer brings us analysis of two cases worth watching as the Supreme Court term begins. Register staff writer Joseph Pronechen reviews a few films that can help us lift our minds to higher things.

Catholic Identity on Campus/2024 Catholic Voters Guide

9/21/2024

For 20 years, the National Catholic Register has put a spotlight on the faithfulness of Catholic colleges and universities. This week on Register Radio we delve into Catholic identity on Campus. Then we turn to the 2024 Catholic Voters Guide. How do the two presidential nominees line up on issues of importance to the Catholic faithful? We explore the Candidates, the Issues and Church Teaching.

Shroud Gets Scientific Nod/ What’s Causing Birth Dearth?

9/14/2024

The Shroud of Turin got another significant nod from scientists. What do recent studies say about the shroud, believed by Christians to be the burial cloth of Jesus? Alyssa Murphy brings us a report. Then Peter Laffin provides analysis on the presidential debate. And finally, we turn to a growing problem in the US: a birth dearth. Why aren’t we having enough children to replace our population? Daniel Payne and Jonathan Liedl cover this story.

EWTN News Real Clear Poll of Catholic Voters/ Fr. Roger Landry’s New Mission

9/7/2024

EWTN News and Real Clear Opinion Research released a new poll on Catholic voters that shows Vice President Kamala Harris leading former President Donald Trump. With us to discuss the numbers are reporters Peter Pinedo for Catholic News Agency and Peter Laffin for the National Catholic Register. Then we turn to mission fields far and wide with Father Roger Landry who was just named the New National Director for the Pontifical Mission Societies.

Pope Francis’ Trip/Abortion on State Ballots/Paralympics and Faith

8/31/2024

Pope Francis heads to Asia and Oceana, visiting 4 countries in 11 days. EWTN News Vatican analyst Frank Rocca gives his take on the significance of this trip. We learn about which states are facing abortion related ballot measures with Register staff writer Peter Laffin, and we get a preview of the Paralympic games in Paris, France with Register Europe correspondent Solène Tadié.

Impressions from the DNC/ Back To School Without Cell Phones

8/24/2024

The Democratic National Convention officially nominated Kamala Harris and Tim Walz for president and vice president. Protecting abortion access was the clearest policy on display at the DNC. The Register’s Staff Writer Peter Laffin gives analysis from Chicago. And, then as students head back to school around the nation, some states have kicked cell phones out of schools. We look into the growing trend with EWTN News reporter Roselle Reyes.

Catholic Persecution in Nicaragua/ Jimmy Lai’s Catholic Witness

8/18/2024

The Catholic Church in Nicaragua has faced another uptick in persecution by the left-wing government of President Daniel Ortega. ACI Prena’s editor in chief Juan Andrés Muñoz about the Catholic witness against this dictatorship. Then we turn to another Catholic witness. This time against communist China. From CNA’s Daniel Payne, we hear the story of Jimmy Lai, an imprisoned media mogul who converted to Catholicism

Remembering Iraqi Christians post-ISIS/ Examining Venezuela’s Election Crisis

8/10/2024

Iraqi journalist Rody Sher from EWTN News’ ACI Mena, joins us to remember the anniversary of the fall of Mosul and the driving of Christians from Iraq’s Ninevah Plains. Then, we turn to Venezuela, where tens of thousands of citizens have taken to the streets in protest after Nicolas Maduro claimed victory in the presidential elections late last month. Venezuelan journalist Andres Henriquez from EWTN News’ ACI Prensa gives us a report.

Religious Vocations and Educational Debt / ACI Africa at 5 Years

8/3/2024

A new CARA study exposes the challenges debt poses to those discerning religious vocations. Our guest Fr. Scott Bahrke explains how the Laboure Society helped him pay his loans and act on his priestly call. Then we look to Africa where vocations are booming as ACI Africa celebrates its fifth year. ACI Africa’s editor in chief Fr. Don Bosco Onyalla joins.

Olympic Athlete Priest at Paris Games/Rupnik Art

7/27/2024

We talk to the Register’s Solene Tadie and a 1996 Olympian-turned-priest, Father Joe Fitzgerald, about pastoral care to Olympic athletes. Then, we discuss why the Knights of Columbus covered artwork of disgraced priest and artist Fr. Marko Rupnik at the John Paul II Shrine in Washington with Register editor in chief Shannon Mullen.

National Eucharistic Congress and Donald Trump’s Nomination

7/20/2024

The National Eucharistic Congress has drawn more than 50,000 Catholics to celebrate belief in Jesus’ Real Presence in the Eucharist. Courtney Mares and Madeline Daley report from the event in Indianapolis. Then we turn to how the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump affected the Republican National Convention, Ken Oliver reports from Milwaukee.

Presidential Politics Heats Up/Synod 2024 Working Document

7/13/2024

Presidential politics are heating up in the United States. Peter Laffin joins us for analysis on presidential fitness for office, party platforms and how the race to Election Day 2024 is shaping up. Then Jonathan Liedl discusses the Synod 2024 in light of the latest working document that will guide the Vatican’s October meeting.

Supreme Court Decisions and International Religious Freedom

7/6/2024

We talk with Cristina Squiers on the Supreme Court’s decision in the Chevron case and take a look at International religious freedom with Catalina Scheider Galinanes.

Religious Freedom Week and Catholic American Heroes

6/29/2024

Around the Fourth of July each year Catholics celebrate Religious Freedom Week. The focus this year was church vandalism, blasphemy laws, and religious persecution around the globe. Bishop Kevin Rhoades, head of the US Bishops committee for Religious Liberty joins us. Then we turn to the Unsung Catholic Heroes of the American Revolution with Register staff writer Joseph Pronechen.

State Ballot Initiatives and Catherine Hadro

6/22/2024

We take a look at state ballot initiatives on abortion with CNA’s Jonah McKeown. Then we talk to Catherine Hadro, the new host of EWTN News In Depth, about her new role, how Mother Angelica’s legacy is continuing to play out at EWTN, and some of her own insights into the pro-life movement.

Pope, G7, Comedians and Skeletons/ USCCB meeting and SCOTUS on Mifepristone

6/15/2024

The Pope G7 and AI, celebrity comedians, the discovery of an unexpected skeleton and celebrating Big Bang Theory were among Vatican news items this week. CNA’s Hannah Brockhaus reports from Rome. Then Matthew Bunson covers the US Bishops spring meeting and CNA’s Ken Oliver reports on the Supreme Court’s rejection of pro-life doctors’ case against the abortion pill mifepristone.

USCCB v. EEOC and 4 million Gather for Uganda Martyrs Feast

6/8/2024

Catholic organizations are in conflict again with the Biden Administration over abortion. Daniel Blomberg, vice president and senior counsel for Becket explains. Jonathan Liedl reports from Uganda where 4 million people gathered for mass for the feast day of St. Charles Lwanga and companions.

Tales of Corpus Christi and National Eucharistic Pilgrimage

6/1/2024

This weekend many Catholics will participate in Eucharist processions. During the Eucharistic Revival, there have been hundreds of public displays of worship of the Blessed Sacrament captured by our radio guest Catholic photographer Jeff Bruno. And EWTN News’ Catherine Hadro and Mark Irons talk about their experiences of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage.

Midwest’s Marian Mark and True Confessions

5/25/2024

Pilgrims are trekking on four different routes for a National Eucharistic Pilgrimage that covers more than 6,000 miles. The Marian Route traverses the Midwest. And Jonathan Liedl, who hails from Minnesota, gives us highlights of Midwestern Catholicism. Then we get a broader glimpse of Catholicism in America as told through Fran Maier’s new book True Confessions: Voices of Faith from a Life in the Church.

Jimmy Akin/Frank Rocca

5/17/2024

Jimmy Akin discusses the new apparitions guidelines issued by the Vatican and Frank Rocca discusses the Catholic Church in China.

New Feminism/ Armenian Christians

5/11/2024

As we celebrate Mothers’ Day, it's time to build a new women’s movement. That’s the case made by Catholic wife, mother and legal scholar Erika Bachiochi. Then we turn to the ongoing crisis of Armenian Christians who continue to suffer persecution. We talk to special guest Former U.S. Ambassador of International Religious Freedom Samuel Brownback.

Jessica Hooten Wilson/Fr. David Pivonka

5/4/2024

Flannery O’Connor scholar Jessica Hooten Wilson gives her take on the film Wildcats and what animates the Catholic 20th century writer’s prophetic imagination. Franciscan University of Steubenville’s president Fr. David Pivonka joins us to explain why Franciscan University has pushed back against the new interpretation of the Title IX rule.

Nicole Leblanc/Jon Sorensen

4/27/2024

Two mothers had the courage to choose life in the face of death. Register contributor Nicole Leblanc tells an inspiring story of faith and friendship with Jessica Hanna. Catholic Answers COO Jon Sorensen shares his perspective on the stumbling block his organization met when trying to evangelize through the latest technologies.

Chris Stefanick

4/20/2024

An interview with "Real Life Catholic" Chris Stefanick.

Tammy Peterson and Dignitas Infinita

4/13/2024

EWTN News Correspondent Colm Flynn speaks about Tammy Peterson about her journey to the Catholic Church, and Jonathan Liedl, Senior Editor for the National Catholic Register, assesses the document Dignitas Infinita which examines the crucial truth of Human Dignity and notes the threats to it.

Pope Francis' Media Moment

4/6/2024

Fr. Roger Landry joins us with his reflections on Divine Mercy, and how penance cleanses the soul for receiving Christ in the Eucharist. Matthew Bunson and Jeanette De Melo take a look at Pope Francis’ media moment. A trove of books and recently published media interviews are spotlighting the Holy Father and his message.

Spy Wednesday

3/23/2024

Jeanette DeMelo & Matthew Bunson shine the truth of the Gospel and this weekend, Guest Jonathan Liedl talking about Vatican News and Fr. Jeffery Kriby telling us more about "Spy Wednesday".

Down’s Syndrome Awareness/ Prayers for Haiti

3/16/2024

Looking ahead to Down’s Syndrome Awareness Day March 21 developmental psychologist and mother Mary O’Callaghan sheds light on the joys and challenges facing families who receive trisomy 21 diagnoses. Fr. Louis Merosne, pastor of the Cathedral of St. Anne in Anse-à-Veau, roughly 80 miles west of Port-au-Prince, describes the fright and the faith of the Haitian people.

Fr. Aquinas Guilbeau/Solene Tadie

3/8/2024

Fr. Aquinas Guilbeau joins us to discuss St. Thomas Aquinas and Solene Tadie discusses the pro-life movement in France where abortion has been declared a "right".

IVF and Catholic Teaching/ Ukrainian Struggles in Wartime

3/3/2024

Bishop Earl Fernandes of Columbus, Ohio sheds light on Catholic teaching on in vitro fertilization, then EWTN News reporter Colm Flynn gives insights on the Ukrainian people’s struggles through war after his recent trip to Ukraine.

The German Synod and Women in the Catholic Church

2/24/2024

CNA Deutsch Editor-in-Chief AC Wimmer reports on the Vatican's intervention of the German bishops controversial vote on the synodal way. Solène Tadié, Europe correspondent for the National Catholic Register looks at the influential role of women in the Catholic church

National Marriage Week

2/17/2024

Ken Oliver joins us to discuss the relationship between the new president of Argentina and Pope Francis, and we are joined by Ryan and Mary Rose Verret to discuss marriage tips for National Marriage Week.

Practical Tips for Lent

2/10/2024

Franciscan Missionary of the Eternal Word Father Joseph Mary helps us prepare for Lent. Then we turn to the news, last fall Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana, historically a school for undergraduate women, decided to accept men who identified as women. The school reversed course after blowback but many are still concerned over St. Mary’s direction. Jonathan Liedl brings us news and analysis.

Lourdes and the African Church

2/2/2024

Courtney Mares in Rome talks about her trip to Lourdes last week. Jonathan Leidl talks about his article on Africa and same-sex blessings.

Realities of Hell

1/27/2024

Pope Francis’ recently called on the international community to ban surrogacy. His words are welcomed aid to pro-life advocates in Michigan which is about to become “one of the most surrogacy-friendly jurisdictions in the world.” That’s what Genevieve Marnon, legislative director of Right to Life of Michigan, told the Register. Genevieve joins us today But first we turn to another topic Pope Francis has talked about recently and most of us don’t like to think about… the reality of Hell. Father Jeffery Kirby joins us now.

How a Supreme Court Case Affects Fishermen and Religious Sisters/ Pro-life Marches Coast to Coast

1/20/2024

A Supreme Court case argued last week could have significant implications for a decade-long religious liberty battle fought by the Little Sisters of the Poor. The case is Loper Bright Enterprises, Inc. v. Gina Raimondo which challenges the authority of the federal administrative state to dictate certain rules and regulations related to federal laws. Becket Law’s President and CEO Mark Rienzi joins us today to explain why this seeming technical case is one of the most important cases of the term. Then we highlight pro-life marches from coast to coast with EWTN News’ Catherine Hadro.

24,000 Youth at SEEK/ March for Life 2024 Preview

1/13/2024

More than 20,000 young people gathered in St. Louis the first week of January for the Seek24 conference. Within that crowd were 450 seminarians and at least 500 priests, who heard more than 3,000 confessions in two hours… What a wonderful way to start a New Year. CNA’s Jonah McKeown was on the ground. He joins us with highlights. Then we gear up for March for Life 2024 with Prudence Robertson, host of EWTN Pro-life Weekly.

2023 Year in Review

1/4/2024

Register Radio notes the top stories of 2023 with Register Editor in Chief Shannon Mullen. Then Senior Editor Jonathan Leidl joins us from Rome to discuss ‘Fiducia Supplicans’ and the impact it will have on Pope Francis’ Legacy.

Fr. Jeff Kirby

12/30/2023

Fr. Jeff Kirby on the recent declaration from the Vatican on Blessings.

Courts Look At Abortion Pill - Vatican vs German Bishops

12/14/2023

The US Supreme Court has agreed to take up a key abortion case in 2024. The Nation’s highest court will weigh in on how patients can access a widely used abortion pill mifepristone. The Register’s National Correspondent Lauretta Brown brings us this story and more from the Register’s coverage of abortion in the United States. But first we get an update on what seems to be a standoff between the Vatican and German Bishops from Jonathan Liedl who has been reporting on this ongoing story from Rome.

The FBI investigated traditional Catholics/ Advent Reflections from a Muslim who Became Catholic

12/8/2023

A new report released this week details the extent of the FBI's weaponization of law enforcement against traditional Catholics. Catholic News Agency’s staff writer Joe Bukuras brings us the latest about how far the FBI went in looking for possible domestic terrorists within traditional churches. The conversion story Register blogger Zubair Simonson who wrote: Advent Thoughts About Gaza and Israel, From a Muslim Who Became Catholic.

Updates on Pope Francis’ Health, Cardinal Burke’s Vatican Residence and German Synodal Way

12/1/2023

Poor health has kept Pope Francis from a trip to Dubai this weekend where he was to participate in the United Nations COP28 climate conference. Nevertheless, the pope has still kept a rather busy schedule. This week we talk about the pope’s health and other news from the Vatican such as the potential that Cardinal Raymond Burke will be stripped of his Vatican apartment and stipend. Register’s Jonathan Leidl joins us from Rome.

Christ the King and Sacred Music Meets AI

11/24/2023

While Christians have celebrated the Christ as King from the very beginning of the Catholic Church, the Feast of Christ the King of the Universe was put on the liturgical calendar less than 100 years ago. What’s the origin this powerful solemnity? We find out with EWTN News’ Dr. Matthew Bunson. Then we look at another effort to sanctity the world … this time through sacred monastic music, yet there’s a twist … Artificial Intelligence is involved. Register’s Solene Tadie brings us a story of how an organization is using AI to help spread sacred monastic music.

2023 Fall USCCB assembly Review/ UK Removes Life Support on Newborn

11/18/2023

The U.S. Bishops met this week in Baltimore for the Fall USCCB assembly where the elections 2024, pro-life leadership, Eucharistic Revival, synod on synodality, and saints were on the agenda. The Register’s editor in chief Shannon Mullen was on the ground in Baltimore. He joins us now with highlights. Then we turn to the sad news of baby Indi Gregory who died in Great Britain this week after her life support was removed against her parents wishes. Register’s UK correspondent KV Turley gives us insights into how the Great Britain has come to this point where parents have no power to decide their children’s medical care.

Pro-life Political Setbacks/ A Look At Christians in the Middle East

11/10/2023

The Pro-life movement experienced a few setbacks this week in three states’ elections, including in Ohio where voters decisively approved a ballot referendum that expands abortion access and adds a new right to abortion to the state constitution. We talk to EWTN’s Prudence Robertson about Nov. 7 election results, the latest GOP debate and the formidable challenges the pro-life movement faces ahead. Then we turn to a very different kind of crisis – the one faced by Christians in the Middle East. We talk to Lebanese journalist Elias Turk from EWTN News’ Arabic language news agency ACI Mena about the impact of the Israel-Hamas war on the Christian community in the region.

Synod on Synodality 2023- What to make of Summary Report?

11/3/2023

The month-long meeting of Catholics at the Vatican known as the #Synod on Synodality ended last weekend with the issuing of the synod’s synthesis report – the report marking the close of this assembly didn’t actually draw many conclusions. So what was the result of this gathering, what’s next and why should it matter for Catholics in the pews? To provide some answers to these questions and perspective from the ground in Rome we are joined by the Register’s Senior Editor Jonathan Leidl.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month/ Edward Sri on Prayer

10/27/2023

October is respect life month for parishes and diocese around the United States. It’s also Down Syndrome Awareness Month, which goes hand in hand with the Church’s call to respect the dignity of every life especially those who are most vulnerable. Today on Register Radio, the Register’s Washington correspondent Lauretta Brown shares a personal story with us about how one child with down syndrome captured her heart and motivates some of her reporting. And then, we turn to prayer, with a well-known author and theologian Edward Sri. We discuss his latest book. When You Pray: A Clear Path to a Deeper Relationship with God

From the Ground in War-Torn Israel / Blessed Carlo Acutis, Pray For Us

10/13/2023

After the Islamist terrorist group Hamas’ attack Israel killing more than 1,000 people and taking more than 100 Israeli hostages, Israel is at war. The US government has condemned Hamas’ attack. Pope Francis and other Catholic leaders throughout the world have condemned terrorism and violence and are calling for prayer and fasting for peace. Long-time Register contributor, Michele Chabin joins us on Register Radio with perspectives from the ground in Israel. Then we turn to the Eucharist our source of hope and an Italian teenager who was completely devoted to making our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament known to a world in need. We talk with Register contributor Sabrina Ferrisi about Blessed Carlo Acutis.

Laudato Si & a Synod on Synodality Update

10/6/2023

Eight years after Pope Francis published his encyclical, Laudato Si, warning about the threats of climate change, the Holy Father has issued a new document on the environment, now warning that time is running out for the planet. This week on Register Radio, we talk to Register contributor Fr. Raymond De Souza about Francis’ vision for ecology. And then, this week The Holy Father officially opened the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, better known as the Synod on Synodality in the Vatican, and the participants went right to work. Catholics are asking: What will the next weeks bring? We are joined by Register Senior Editor Jonathan Liedl with the latest.

Joe Pearce Talks Hobbit Day and JRR Tolkien's Life

9/22/2023

In the month of September, we mark the 50th anniversary of the passing of one of the greatest writers of the 20th century, JRR Tolkien and we celebrated this week both Hobbit Day and Tolkien Week. This week on Register Radio we talk to author and Tolkien expert Joseph Pearce about the legacy of the devoutly Catholic scholar and his masterwork The Lord of the Rings.

Tight Information Flow for the Synod on Synodality

9/13/2023

We are now only a few weeks away from the start of the Synod on Synodality in Rome, and Synod officials have announced that the media will have limited access to the Synod’s sessions. This raises the question: Is a Tightly-Controlled Information Flow the Best Way to Go? This week on Register Radio we talk with Russell Shaw one of the great veterans of the Catholic Press about the Synod, secrecy, and the state of Catholic media.

Pope Makes History in Mongolia/ Artificial Intelligence and Catholic Colleges

9/8/2023

The Pope of the Peripheries makes history in Mongolia. Catholic News Agency’s Courtney Mares traveled in the papal press corps during first ever papal visit to the north central Asian country. She joins us now with her traveler’s diary notes. Then we look at AI on College Campuses. How are Catholic colleges and universities handling this new moment of artificial intelligence. There’s no one size fits all answer. Register writer Matthew McDonald gives us perspectives from the field.

Dorothy Day, Mongolia and A Message to Journalists on Synod on Synodality/ Parents Push Back Politized School Curricula

9/1/2023

Students are back in school or soon will be. And parents of public school students are, in some places, on high alert to safeguard their children from politicized agendas – especially in regards to gender identity in their school curriculum, Senior editor Joan Desmond has been following the latest developments in parental rights in California and across the country, she joins today. But first we turn to news from the Vatican. Roman holidays – that is the traditional August escape from hot and humid Rome – is over and Pope Francis has picked up a busy schedule with a 4 day trip to Mongolia, continued preparations for the synod, the signaling of support for the cause of Dorothy Day and confirmation that sequel to Laudato Si is in the works.

Editors Corner on Abortion Pill ,Maui Fires & Religious Liberty

8/18/2023

The Maui fire devastation and a spared Catholic Church, a court ruling reinstating limits on abortion pills, Ohio pro-lifer’s gearing for an aggressive abortion ballot measure in November and Churches destroyed by a mob in Pakistan are some of the stories that Matthew Bunson and Jeanette De Melo talk the latest news in an Editors’ corner. Then EWTN New legal analyst Andrea Picciottt Bayer gives an update on a few religious liberty cases making their way through state courts.

World Youth Day Pilgrims Takeaways/ Barbie Makes You Think

8/11/2023

World Youth Day surpassed expectations last week with 1.5 million pilgrims joining Pope Francis for a vigil and then the closing mass Aug 6 in Lisbon. Blogger and WYD pilgrim Kevin McCartney & Father Sean Conroy join us now to talk about their experience. Then we turn to another summer blockbuster – Barbie, which made history as the first film solely directed by a woman to surpass 1 billion in global box office sales. Register writer Meghan Schultz gives her take on the film.

World Youth Day/White House Abortion Policy

8/6/2023

Editors Corner with Jeanette DeMelo and Matthew Bunson discussing World Youth Day and Lauretta Brown on the latest White House challenges to abortion policy.

World Youth Day Lisbon 2023 / The Miracle Club and Lourdes

7/26/2023

Hundreds of thousands of young people will meet Pope Francis in Portugalfor World Youth Day 2023 . The Holy Father doesn’t want this opportunity to be simply religious tourism… it’s a spiritual pilgrimage. Father Roger Landry joins us now to talk about how WYD people can help us all on our spiritual pilgrimage of life. Then we turn to another well know pilgrimage site Lourdes. The film The Miracle Club highlights the journey of a group of women to Our Lady’s shrine at Lourdes in France. Register senior editor Joan Desmond reviews the film plus offers her own experience of assisting pilgrims to Lourdes.

Sounds of Freedom/ Working Through Grief / Grandparents

7/21/2023

Sound of Freedom has now topped box office charts. Register writer Patti Armstrong has followed the movie’s production, its success and its serious subject matter – human trafficking. Then we turn to a subject not easy to speak about but that everyone faces at some point in life—grief. We explore how to grieve the Catholic Way: Seeking Heavenly Help Through Sorrow and Trauma. And then don’t forget Grandparents’ Day July 23.

Supreme Court’s Religion-Related Decisions and Pope’s New Doctrine Head Archbishop Victor Manuel Fernandez

7/8/2023

The Supreme Court ended its term with two religion-related decisions, ruling in favor of religious accommodation and free speech. Andrea Picciotti Bayer explains the Court’s decisions and relevance for any believer and the common good. Then Pope Francis announced last week a new head for the Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith. Edward Pentin offers reporting and analysis on Archbishop Victor Manuel Fernandez.

Catholics in the American Revolution & Update on Bishop Strickland

6/30/2023

Happy Fourth of July! As we prepare for Independence Day, let’s do some trivia on Catholic connections in the American Revolution. Register writer Joseph Pronechen has the fact about some of the unsung Catholic heroes who made their mark at our nation’s beginnings. But first we look at important Church news US this week – Register editor in chief Shannon Mullen discusses the Vatican’s apostolic visitation of Bishop Joseph Strickland of Tyler Texas.

Synod on Synodality Document and Eucharistic Conversion

6/23/2023

The #Synod on Synodality concluded its preparatory phase this week with the release of the planning document that will guide the October gathering of synod members. The document lays out what promises to be a wide-ranging discussion on #Pope Francis’ vision of a more inclusive, decentralized and “listening” church. Register Senior Editor Jonathan Liedl joins us with analysis. Then we hear from a young woman who converted from #Judaism then Protestantism to Catholicism and now is witnessing to others the power of the #Eucharist. Joanna Wischer shares her story. #popefrancis

Origins of LGBTQ+ Ideologies and Father’s Day

6/17/2023

Baseball, LGBTQ+ pride, a troupe of men grotesquely dressed in nuns’ habits receiving honors for their so-called charity and other men dress in women’s jerseys receiving top prizes in women’s competition. Then Father’s Day thrown into the middle of this. These are the marks of the month of June. How did we get into this madness and where do we go from here? Two authors and fellows at the Ethics and Public Policy center offer their insights: Carrie Gress and Noelle Mering join us today.

The Hillbilly Thomists ( Encore)

6/10/2023

Alyssa Murphy talks with The Hillbilly Thomists, Dominican Friars that are combining Catholic theology with bluegrass music.

GRN's Len Oswald - Fr. Landry On HOPE

6/2/2023

Interview with Len Oswald who is retiring from EWTN radio largest affiliate Guadalupe Radio Network after 27 years. Then Register columnist Father Roger Landry talks about HOPE and how it helps those who are sinking into suicide and depression.

Missouri Nun's Body Seems Intact 4 Years After Burial

5/26/2023

Hundreds of pilgrims have flocked to a Missouri monastery this week to see the remains of Sister Wilhelmina Lancaster, a Benedictine sister who died 4 years ago and whose recently exhumed body shows very little signs of decay. EWTN News’ Kelsey Wicks, went to Gower, Missouri last weekend to cover this remarkable story.

Dealing with Infertility

5/19/2023

The month of May with its celebration of mothers, can leave some women feeling desolate. Today we talk to women who have experienced the pain of infertility and who have leaned into their suffering through God’s help to yield beautiful witnesses to adoption and spiritual motherhood. We talk to two women who are writers and advocates Leigh Snead and Mary Bruno.

Mothers Day Special

5/12/2023

We celebrate Mothers Day this Sunday with warm appreciation for all the women who are mothers – physically or spiritually bearing, nurturing and loving children. On Register Radio, Register managing editor of ncregister.com Alyssa Murphy talks to Lisa Wheeler about entering motherhood through fostering and adoption children. And them we talk about the special role of women in bringing children to Christ with feature writer Lindsey Weishar.

Pope in Hungary Review and the German Tax on Catholicism

5/5/2023

One of the top stories at the NCRegister.com last month was about a web platform that seeks to combat porn addictions that took its inspiration from an unlikely source: Blessed Carlo Acutis. Register writer Solene Tadie wrote that story. She joins us now from Rome just days after she followed Pope Francis’s travels to Hungary last weekend. Solene gives us highlights about the unique ways of evangelizing in our culture and the impact of the Holy Father on young and old alike in Hungary. Then we turn to happenings in the Church in another European country. Jonathan Liedl has more on the German situation – and we examine the question: how does the German tax influence German Catholicism?

SCOTUS Cases & Prolife Colleges

4/28/2023

Heightened attention is on the Supreme Court again these days over issues of abortion and religious liberty. Today Register columnist Andrea Picciotti-Bayer provides insights into the Supreme Court’s latest cases, including the ruling on the abortion pill and the oral arguments the justices heard related to a former postal worker, who refused to work on Sunday. Then we turn to hearing about a Catholic university that’s stepping up its commitment to life and dignity by offering young, single moms childcare, housing and a compassionate community. Register’s national correspondent Lauretta Brown has the story.

Mother Angelica 100th Birthday

4/20/2023

Happy Birthday to Mother Angelica! On April 20, Mother Mary Angelica, the nun who created the world’s largest Catholic media networked, would have turned 100 years old. EWTN Global Catholic Television Network’s founder, who died in 2016, has had a profound impact on Catholics in the United States and around the world. Today on Register Radio, Father Joseph Mary shares stories of Mother Angelica’s great trust and how that continues to impact EWTN’s work. Then the Register’s Digital Managing Editor Alyssa Murphy brings us stories from listeners and readers who have been touched by Mother.

Divine Mercy Sunday 2023

4/14/2023

This weekend the Universal Church celebrates Divine Mercy Sunday. Pope John Paul dedicated the Second Sunday of Easter to “The Feast of Mercy” in 2000 at the Canonization of the Polish religious sister Saint Faustina Kowalska and since then devotion has grown tremendously. Today on Register Radio, Register writers Matt McDonald and Lauretta Brown talk about the growth of Divine Mercy devotion as well as some ways to partake in this feast day’s greatest offerings.

Pope's Recent Health and a German Synod Update

3/31/2023

Prayers for Pope Francis were called for this week when the Holy Father spent a few days in the hospital before one of the busiest times of the liturgical year. On Register Radio today Matthew Bunson and I discuss the Pope’s health and Holy Week. Then we turn our attention to Germany, where a bishop’s resignation and other events seem aimed to deter the heterodox path of the German Synodal Way. Jonathan Liedl, the Register’s senior editor who recently returned from Germany, offers his analysis.

Lent, Fasting, and the Rise of the Occult

3/25/2023

How tough a Catholic are you? How would you have done with the Catholic Church’s practice of fasting if you lived 100 years ago? Today we discuss Lent and Fasting – now and then with Register staff writer Matthew McDonald. Then we turn to the troubling trend of interest in the Occult and discuss ways of “putting the devil on the run” with Register contributor Mary Frances Myler.

The Tenth Anniversary of Pope Francis' Pontificate

3/18/2023

On today’s show Register columnist Father Raymond J. De Souza examines the highlights and lowlights of Pope Francis’ pontificate and then, along with Register Senior Editor Jonathan Liedl, we look at one of Francis’ biggest challenges the German Synodal Way.

Father Dave Pivanka

3/11/2023

Interview with Father Dave Pivanka.

Life of Bishop David O’Connelll - 1 Year of the Ukraine War

3/3/2023

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles is mourning the loss of Bishop David O’Connell, who was shot and killed two weeks ago. He has been remembered as shepherd who knew the smell of his sheep and who tirelessly served the community. Senior editor Joan Frawley Desmond who has covered the story joins us on Register Radio. Then Matthew Bunson and Jeannette DeMelo have an editors corner that highlights news of the first anniversary of Ukraine- Russia war, the Vatican’s latest communication on the Traditional Latin Mass, a feature on 6 American Black Catholics Are on the Road to Sainthood and more.

Dr. Scott Hahn and Amy Smith on Lent 2023

2/24/2023

Lent 2023 is here and Catholics across the globe turn to prayer, fasting and works of charity in order to more fully unite themselves to Christ. The National Catholic Register provides resources to aid this spiritual journey. Today Doctor Scott Hahn joins us to discuss his new free Bible study, "Holy Is His Name"? Then the Register’s associate editor Amy Smith gives us highlights of other Lenten materials.

Nicaragua: Faith During Persecution

2/17/2023

Eight Nicaraguan Priests who were expelled from their country by the Ortega regime celebrated Mass for first time in six months last weekend at a small chapel in Washington DC. The Register’s senior editor Joan Frawley Desmond who has covered this story of faith in the face of persecution joins us on Register Radio along with Register columnist Andrea Picciotti Bayer, who covers religious liberty issue world-wide. #EWTN #Catholic #Radio #Religious #Freedom

A New Editor in Chief - An Israel Pilgrimage

2/10/2023

The Register has a new editor in chief. EWTN announced last month that Shannon Mullen will be lead the 95 year old National Catholic Register. Shannon joins us to talk about his dedication to journalism and his mission in Catholic media. Jeanette & Matthew also talk with Register Senior Editor Jonathan Liedl about his recent trip to Israel – the highlights of pilgrimage but also the ongoing strife in the region. And lastly we take another look at conflicting concepts of synod that continue to cause tension in the church. Listen to the program on EWTN Catholic radio.

Running A Catholic Newspaper ( Encore)

2/4/2023

Matthew Bunson interviews Jeanette De Melo, the Register's editor in chief about what it takes to run the National Catholic Register. They discuss the history of this almost 90 plus year old paper and how Jeanette came to work work there.

Human Composting & March for Life 2023

1/21/2023

This weekend men and women, young and old from around the country rallied in demonstration of the tragedy of abortion. Their protest marks the anniversary of Roe v. Wade which was decided 50 years ago on Jan 22, 1973, despite the fact that Roe has been overturned. Pro-life organizers told the Register’s national reporter Lauretta Brown that the marches are now more important than ever. She joins now to explain why. Then we turn to a different kind of pro-life question: Is Human Composting a moral option? Register columnist John Grondelski joins us to explain the Church’s teaching on proper Christian burial.

Fr. de Souza on Pope Benedict XVI & Cardinal Pell

1/12/2023

Father Raymond de Souza has interviewed both Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal George Pell of Australia. This week on Register Radio Fr. De Souza talks with Jeannette DeMelo and Matthew Bunson on the legacy of Pope Benedict and his long friendship with Cardinal Pell.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XI Funeral

1/6/2023

Register’ Rome correspondent Edward Pentin and Senior Editor Jonathan Liedl share impressions on Pope Emeritus Benedict XI's funeral and insights into his legacy.

2022 Year in Review

12/30/2022

As we closed out 2022, the Register prepared our year in review edition. The Register’s national correspondent Lauretta Brown gives special attention to #pro-life heroes this year marking their long hard work to overturn Roe vs Wade. Then the Register’s Rome correspondent Edward Pentin for a look back at this year’s happenings involving the #Pope and the #Vatican.

The Latest in Vatican News

12/9/2022

As pilgrims make their way to Rome for Advent and the Christmas season, important Vatican news continues, including the crisis of the German Synodal Path, the Synod on Synodality, and the on-going trial of Cardinal Angelo Becciu. This week on Register Radio, we are joined by the Register’s Rome correspondent, Edward Pentin with the latest on these stories and more.

The Immaculate Conception 2022

12/8/2022

Johnnette shares that the Immaculate Conception is the Catholic dogma that states that Mary was conceived without original sin or its stain. That’s what “immaculate” means: without stain. She asked listeners to share how Mary has changed their life. Anne tells of how putting 'Miraculous medals ' in her son's car helped him to make good decisions. Judy, Madalyn, Barbara all share their stories too .

The Hillbilly Thomists

12/5/2022

Alyssa Murphy talks with The Hillbilly Thomists, Dominican Friars that are combining Catholic theology with bluegrass music.

Understanding Mass Readings and New Saints

11/25/2022

Scripture scholar John Bergsma help us deepen our understanding of the ‘A’ cycle of readings we hear at Sunday Mass. Then explore the new sainthood causes for 3 American women in an editor’s corner.

The 2022 USCCB Conference Reviewed

11/16/2022

The U.S. #bishops met this week to choose new leaders for their conference and discuss key priorities for the Church in the America including life issues after #Dobbs, #Synod on Synodality and #Marriage catechumenate. EWTN News was on the ground reporting from the event. The Register’s Lauretta Brown and Jonathan Liedl join us with their take aways. #USCCB

Midterm Results & USCCB Elections

11/9/2022

The 2022 Mid-Term elections did not deliver the anticipated Red Wave that was expected to carry the Republicans back to power in Washington, DC. It did bring some major surprises, however, and left the GOP poised to block President Biden’s agenda for the next two years. What were the biggest takeaways from the midterms? This week on register Radio, we are joined by Lauretta Brown, Register staff writer who has been covering the midterms. And then, we talk with Register Senior Editor Jonathan Liedl about the upcoming USCCB Fall General Assembly.

The latest on the US Midterms and the Synod on Synodality

11/4/2022

As Election Day Approaches, many Catholics have joined EWTN in praying a Marian Novena for Our Nation. At the Register we are praying as well as continuing to cover the important issues at play in the midterms. The Register’s National Correspondent Lauretta Brown joins us from Washington. And then Senior Editor Jonathan Liedl talks about the latest on the Synod on Synodality including what’s in the working document and who will represent the US in the continental phase.

Politics in Church and State: Synod and US Midterms

10/21/2022

Pope Francis has decided to extend the Synod on Synodality to October 2024. His announcement on Oct. 16 included his decision to divide the Synod of Bishops into two sessions that will meet in Rome in October 2023 and October 2024. Register Rome correspondent Edward Pentin joins us with analysis of this news. Then EWTN Legal Analyst Andrea Picciotti-Bayer joins us to discuss the new term at the US Supreme Court and cases Catholics should watch. She’ll also highlight how Religious Liberty is in the crosshairs of midterm election campaigns

The 60 Year Anniversary of Vatican II

10/15/2022

On Oct. 11, 2022, the Catholic Church recognized the 60th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council by Pope John XXIII. To commemorate the Council and examine the mark it continues to have on the Church these 60 years later, the National Catholic Register published a symposium of voices. Senior Editor Jonathan Liedl helped organize this effort and Theologian Larry Chapp contributed to the special edition. Both join Jeanette DeMelo to discuss Vatican II’s continued relevance in this moment as well as its significance for the future of the Church.