“I'm convinced most of our problems in catechesis is we spend more time talking about what God wants of us than who God is.” Deacon Bob Rice, professor of Catechetics at Franciscian University of Steubenville, joins us to dive into the heart of catechesis, what our youth are most hungry for, how we can share the Gospel with those far from God, and how to make the bridge between dogma and everyday life. “They all need Jesus. They just don't know they need Jesus.” Show Notes: (00:12) Edmund kicks off the episode by introducing the guest: Deacon Bob Rice. He's a Catholic deacon, professor, podcaster, speaker, musician, and author at the Franciscan University of Steubenville. Edmund starts the conversation by asking Deacon Bob, “How did you first discover the Catechism?” Deacon Bob shares his mystical experience while reading the Catechism for the first time, and emphasizes that it's an expression of the deposit of faith and not the deposit of faith itself.(06:50) The importance of the preparation step: “Catechesis is oftentimes almost presented like an answer to a question no one was asking.” Deacon Bob and Edmund discuss the Ecclesial method and the importance of preparation in catechesis. They stress the need to understand the audience and their struggles instead of focusing solely on programs. Deacon Bob emphasizes that we need to see the goodness in people and treat catechesis as a way to build relationships and understand their needs.(14:55) “How do you know when it’s time to talk about Jesus?” Deacon Bob emphasizes that building relationships and understanding people is key to evangelizing effectively. He reminds us that everyone is made in the image and likeness of God and shares the importance of seeing the good in others. “Culture is made up of men and women who are made in the image and likeness of God.“ =(20:33) Formally handing on the faith: advice to parents, teachers, and catechists. Dcn. Rice gives us his insights into how to bring “dogma into everyday life.” He shares, “love how the Catechism is structured. Morality is called Life in Christ. So it's about being like Jesus.” He gives us three things to keep in mind: First, “Always make it about Jesus.”  Second, use the beauty of your own witness and that of the saints. Third, connect everything to the Gospel message.(26:57) “What do you see as the hunger in our youth?” Our guest shares that he sees human contact as the greatest hunger right now with young people. Additionally, he adds “truth and being able to trust the source” are dynamics young people struggle with right now.   An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Emily and Edmund welcome John Galvan, Vice President of Assessments at the National Catholic Education Association. John has served in Catholic ministry for many years and brings to the podcast a wealth of wisdom and fever for sharing the Catholic faith. Together with our host, he discusses the power of experiences, practical ways to share the faith in your home, and what’s giving him hope these days.   Shownotes: (00:04) Edmund and Emily welcome you to this episode of Real+True’s podcast. They introduce the topic of this podcast, “Evangelizing Catechesis in Catholic Schools” and our guest. John Galvan. John is the NCEA Vice President of Assessments and has been in the ministry of Catholic Education for over 30 years. He is well-versed in Catechetics and what it means for our sense of belonging in life, in and out of the Church. He holds a B.A. in art, M.A. in practical theology, and an M.Ed. in educational leadership & administration. John shares the mission of Catholic education, “it's not a concept, it's an encounter with a person. It's an encounter with the living God through Jesus Christ.” (05:55) “How do you encourage teachers to help form students within Catholic education while also knowing that some of it is just up to God's grace?” Our hosts and guests take time to wonder at the power of God’s grace and his specific plan of conversion for each soul. They talk about the many seeds that were planted in their hearts through Catholic education. (11:27 ) Emily shares, “If you're involving students in those experiences, then it's gonna be seen as not just information, but more relevant to their lives.” The discussion covers the power of experiences in helping students encounter Christ. Emily and John share about their testimonies and how they came to encounter God, encounters that we built on their previous Catholic education. The discussion goes on to cover the issue of ‘relevance’ and how to bring students to an understanding of God in their lives. (22:54) Practical ways to bring faith into your home and “creating that culture of encounter for students.” John discusses how he as a father shares his faith with his daughter, including praying with her before bed. He discusses how many children evangelize their parents and often families grow together in the faith if the children are engaging their faith in school. (27:07) ‘What excites you about the future of Catholic education?” John shares the hope he has to be seeing ministries like Real+True share the Gospel and bring the light of the Catholic faith to our world. He shares that the Church has changed in his lifetime and is growing and that brings him hope.An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Summary: “I think to look at the catechism as a just book would be a mistake.” Edmund welcomes Julianne Stanz, author, speaker, USCCB consultant and Director of Parish Life and Discipleship for the Diocese of Green Bay. Julianne shares her extensive knowledge on discipleship and how she sees the role of the Catechism within the life of a missionary disciple. Get to know her story, how her relationship with the Catechism changed over time, and how the Church defines the two dimensions of the Catechism itself. (00:37) Julianne Stanz, a nationally known speaker, retreat leader, storyteller, the Director of Parish Life and Discipleship in Diocese of Green Bay and a consultant to the USCCB Committee on Catechesis and Evangelization is welcomed onto this episode of the Real+True podcast. She is the author of Braving the Thin Places, Start with Jesus: How Everyday Disciples Will Renew the Church, Developing Disciples of Christ, and co-author of The Catechist’s Backpack.  (4:40) What is missionary discipleship? Julianne shares, “You hear good news every single time you go to Mass, the Gospel of the Lord.” And that our relationship with good news will change how we share it. Do we see it as good? Edmund shares that the context of being on a mission trip prompts him to behave differently — including being much more open to the Holy Spirit, and to pray with people on the spot. But once he returned home, he saw that behavior left behind. Julianne shares that context is important when we’re talking about missionary discipleship.  (12:48) “God does not use our ability, he blesses our availability.” Julianne encourages listeners who want to share the Gospel but aren’t sure how to pray, “Lord, use me." And then pray for the opportunity for him to use you in just very concrete ways.” Edmund highlights that the Informative Dossier, ​​a Church document which explains the Catechism in more depth, says that the Catechism is conciliar (from the Church) and missionary (for the purpose of sharing the Gospel.) Julianne shares, “When you receive the Eucharist, you become a tabernacle with feet,” highlighting the reality that our lives as missionary disciples are extensions of our relationship with Jesus.  (21:35) “What has your experience of the Catechism been?” Julianne shares about her conversion and encountering the Catechism as a 17-year-old student in Dublin and how her relationship with the Catechism changed overtime as she saw it less of a textbook but more of an encounter with God. And this led her to her excitement when she was asked to be an Advisor for Real+True. Edmund invites Julianne to address mistakes she often sees in evangelization “Recognize the person in front of you is not somebody that is half full that you need to fill up with information. But God already dwells in the person's heart because he always precedes us.” This episode is supported by NCEA, https://www.ncea.org/NCEA2023/whyattendAn OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Summary: Edmund and Emily invite Pete Burak to this episode of the Real+True Podcast. Pete is the Director of i.d. Young Adult Ministry, and Vice President of Renewal Ministries in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He’s a graduate of Franciscian University, and Sacred Heart Major Seminary. Pete has been in young adult ministry for a decade and shares his insights into the roadblocks young adults are facing in their journey with God, how to reach those with no religious affiliations, and practical steps for using the Catechism as a resource.  Show Notes (00:37) Edmund and Emily introduce this episode’s guest Pete Burak. Pete shares about Renewal Ministries, i.d. and the important role young adults play in the life of a parish. They discuss the struggles that young adults face in trying to live faithful lives– including a need for community and a fear of authority. Pete mentions the “nones” of our culture, those who do not ascribe to any religion.   (12:55) A look at the state of young adults: Pete explains what he sees in the culture. He describes the phenomenon of “Nones,” those who, when asked what religion they affiliated with, would respond, “None.” This number of people is rising and alarming. Our guest Pete dissects this with an understanding of the broken trust and broken credibility with authority in all realms (politics, sports, and even within the Church.) Emily mentions that the mission of Real+True is a counter argument to the attitude that the Church is only focused on rules and controlling behavior. But rather, through the Catechism, we see that our Catholic faith is an experience of God revealing himself to us and desiring for us to respond.  (23:08) “Catechesis is a moment in the process of evangelization.” Emily shares her insights into the role of relationship in the process of sharing the Gospel with another person. Making this personal: the role of personal testimony in sharing the Gospel. Pete mentions young adults’ desire for stability, a desire for the sacred as they build their lives. And that ultimately the Catholic Church is that place of stability and sacredness they search for. Edmund makes the point that, “People are shying away from institutional religion, but also seeking wisdom from somewhere.” Real+True exists to be that “somewhere.”  (30:26) Pete Burak shares, ”our generation's allergic to commitment… yet I've found it incredibly refreshing for young adults to be challenged to commitment.” Pete, Emily, and Edmund discuss the task of unlocking the greater mysteries of the Catholic faith, past the moral or political questions that arise more naturally. “How do we make people excited about the Trinity?” (37:21) Practical suggestions: “If you want people to engage with the Catechism, you need to know the Catechism.” Pete encourages us to encounter the Catechism for ourselves and to turn to it in discussion and dialogue. “Instead of trying to quote it, I say, "Hey, why don't we just read it?" Having the Bible and the Catechism on hand as a catechist is an idea Pete suggests for anyone handing on the faith.  This episode is supported by NCEAhttp://www.ncearise.org/An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

“The dogmas of the faith are points that we can start at to begin the lifelong adventure of trying to understand them.” Edmund welcomes the Director of the Vatican Observatory, Br. Guy Consolmagno. Together they dive into the mystery of the universe, science, and how all of God’s creation leads back to him. Listen to hear practical advice of walking with science-minded skeptics of the faith, and how ‘bridges of faith’ can help bring others close to Jesus. (00:04) Edmundo welcomes us to this episode and introduces us to the episode’s guest Brother Guy Consolmagno who is the Director of the Vatican Observatory. He earned his Ph.D. from Georgetown University and holds the Carl Sagan Medal for Outstanding Communication by an Active Planetary Scientist to the General Public. Br. Guy explains why the Vatican has an observatory and the role it plays in modern astronomy. (03:40) “How can science supplement our faith and not be against it?” Edmund asks Br. Guy to explain the relationship between faith and reason, and how science and theology intertwine. He goes on to tell us that reason comes from God. And also, that we can’t overlook the desire we have for good explanations and the pleasure we receive in them. Science is powerful because we enjoy it and because it leads us to a greater understanding of God. (10:20) “Is Christianity just to fill in the gaps that science can’t explain?” Br. Guy addresses this question that Edmund poses to him. And goes on to explain that many scientists he encounters believe in God, and have some sort of faith system. Br. Guy shares that wearing the collar of a religious has opened the door for many fruitful conversations between him and his colleagues about faith since it clearly shows that Br. Guy is religious.  (15:21) The danger of looking to science for certainty: Br. Guy describes what he sees in our culture concerning how people search for absolute answers about the world around them, and ultimately religion does offer the answers we are all looking for. The conversation goes on to “The universe has to be logical or it wouldn't work. But it doesn't have to be beautiful. And yet it is.” The discussion revisits the idea of certainty and Br. Guy shares a quote from Anne Lamot:, "the opposite of faith isn't doubt. The opposite of faith is certainty." He says, “If you had certainty, then you wouldn't need faith.”(20:35) Edmund asks Br. Guy about his popular books, the stories behind their names, and why he wrote them. Br. Guy shares the interpretations of his books and the purpose of his writings. They discuss the importance of bridges of faith, of finding ways to connect with those who are skeptical of the faith, and using science and what we know of the universe to proclaim God’s goodness. An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Emily and Edmund welcome to the Real+True podcast Dr. Petroc Willey, Ph.D, who has dedicated his life to studying and sharing the gift of the Catechism with our Church. This episode tackles the questions, “what’s the difference between catechesis and evangelization? Do they overlap at all? And how do we encounter Christ in the Catechism?” Dr. Petroc Willey, Ph.D shares how he first encountered the Catechism, a powerful and practical way to pray with the Catechism itself, and how to appreciate the Catechism for the gift that it is to us. (00:10) Edmund and Emily introduce this episode, its mission and its guest. Today, they are joined by Dr. Petroc Willey, Ph.D, Ph.D. professor of theology at the Franciscian University of Steubenville. Dr. Willey is the Director of the Catechetical Institute at Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, Consultor for the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelisation (now the Dicastery for Evangelization) in Rome, and is on the Board of Advisors for Real+True. Edmund shares how he encountered Dr. Willey and the impact of Dr. Willey(03:40) “How did you encounter the Catechism, Dr. Willey?” Our guest shares how a project to write a commentary on the Catechism introduced him to the book that would change his life. “It (the Catechism) was asking of me a response of faith, and it was challenging me into entering a relationship with Christ the whole time. It wasn’t a book that could just stay on the shelf.” Edmundo then shares his personal story of encountering the Catechism. (10:20) Catechesis and Evangelization: what’s the difference? And how do they overlap? Evangelization is a process, and catechesis is a moment within it. Dr. Willey explores this and details that the Church considers primary catechists to be parents. “The catechist needs what's in the catechism in order to introduce the other person to Jesus Christ and his saving truth.” The goal of catechesis is ‘insertion into the mystery of Christ.” (19:50) Introducing others to Christ: encountering the Catechism and encountering Christ. Dr. Willey shows us an example of how the Catechism speaks to the human heart, and the “depth of its spirituality.” Dr. Willey switches out the word “mankind” with the name of the person he’s speaking to as an example of how powerful the Catechism is. Emily asks Edmund to explain how to pray with the Catechism, following the structure of Lectio Divina. An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

What role does ‘beauty’ play for our catechesis in the modern world? Emily and Edmund welcome Dr. Jem Sullivan, an expert in catechesis and sacred art, and professor at the Catholic University of America. Together they explore how beauty is a path for catechesis, including architecture, sacred music, paintings, sculptures, mosaic, and stained glass. They give practical tips to incorporating beauty into our classrooms and homes, and allowing the power of art to be a ‘pre-sacrament’ in our lives.An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Join us for a NEW season of the Real+True podcast. We have some exciting changes planned – including interviewing expert guests about the intersection between the catechism and the modern world.Plus: we'll be talking about how we can continue to use the catechism to answer relevant and important questions people have, and where we see the catechism as a source of inspiration for our lives and the call to evangelize.Learn more at realtrue.org/podcastAn OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Show Notes: (00:11) Your hosts Emily and Edmund welcome you to the Unit 12 podcast. This unit’s theme is: Jesus died to destroy death and rose to restore life until he comes again. These videos cover Catechism paragraphs: https://www.catholiccrossreference.online/catechism/#!/search/988-1065 (988-1065). Proclamation video: How to die well. Explanation video: What happens after we die?  Connection video: Why Catholics believe in “life everlasting”(02:40) The Proclamation video is highlighted. Edmund and Emily discuss how to have a healthy relationship with death, which is the Christian approach. Some people avoid the topic altogether, while others can become obsessed or preoccupied. But our faith informs how we can die well, which means that we’ve lived well. Emily highlights the Hail Mary prayer that ends, “pray for us now and at the hour of our death.”  (10:38) Stand out Catechism paragraph: Edmund’s favorite passage was CCC https://www.catholiccrossreference.online/catechism/#!/search/1018 (1018) “As a consequence of original sin, man must suffer "bodily death, from which man would have been immune had he not sinned.” Edmund liked this passage because it helped him see that Christ freely chose to die for us. Emily chose: CCC 1039 “In the presence of Christ, who is Truth itself, the truth of each man's relationship with God will be laid bare. The Last Judgment will reveal even to its furthest consequences the good each person has done or failed to do during his earthly life.” This section caught her eye because it brings to light the right vision for how we view our death. (19:09) Explanation video: Our hosts marvel at the unbelievable reality that our bodies will be resurrected at the end of time, both the just and the unjust alike. Emily makes the point that “Jesus’ resurrected body gives us hope, that the things that he said will come true.” Edmund points out that Jesus appeared many times in his resurrected body, and the accounts are credible and logical to believe in. (25:27) Connection: Edmund shares that our belief about the resurrection of our bodies should change how we treat our bodies now.  “What is the truth that Jesus came to reveal to us about our bodies? It is through our bodies that we are called to experience communion with others, and with God.” (31:47) Recapping Pillar I of Real+True. Our hosts reflect on the past year, and the 13 units Real+True has published so far. Emily shares that she hopes the Real+True audience grows to appreciate how the Catechism is a living voice for the Church. An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Show Notes: (00:11) Your hosts Emily and Edmund welcome you to the Unit 11 podcast. This unit’s theme is: Jesus gave the Apostles and the Church the power to forgive sins. These videos cover Catechism paragraphs https://www.catholiccrossreference.online/catechism/#!/search/976-987 (976-987): Proclamation video: Is there room for mercy in the justice system? Explanation video: How does the Catholic Church forgive sins? Connection video: How to forgive (and why it's important)(05:55) The Proclamation video is discussed: Edmund shares about his own experience with justice and reconciliation. Emily shares that her father studied restorative justice and how this shifted her vision for how reconciliation can happen in a society. Edmund shares that he is inspired by those who have hopeful dreams for the legal system. They hosts express gratitude to our animation team and their new brainstorming for the next set of Catechism videos. (11:27) Stand out Catechism paragraph: Edmund’s favorite passage was CCC 982 There is no offense, however serious, that the Church cannot forgive. "There is no one, however wicked and guilty, who may not confidently hope for forgiveness, provided his repentance is honest. Christ who died for all men desires that in his Church the gates of forgiveness should always be open to anyone who turns away from sin.” This struck Edmund because he felt “the gates of forgiveness” was a beautiful image for how gracious God is toward us. Emily chose: CCC 979 - "If the Church has the power to forgive sins, then Baptism cannot be her only means of using the keys of the Kingdom of heaven received from Jesus Christ. the Church must be able to forgive all penitents their offenses, even if they should sin until the last moment of their lives.”(17:06) Explanation video: “Has it ever been hard for you to forgive?” Emily highlights that God desires to forgive us, and that we would forgive each other. Edmund shares that making these videos prompted him to really ask himself, “do I really believe in forgiveness?” (23:32) Connection: practical application of forgiveness. This video gives a step-by-steep guide to how to ask for forgiveness, and offer forgiveness to others. Emily shares that her dream for this video is that it would help people who are dealing with unforgiveness find peace through forgiveness. Edmund underlines that forgiveness is hard, and that it takes courage and God’s grace to live in a culture of forgiveness. Thanks for listening!An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Join Emily and Edmund as they dive into the gift of our heavenly friends, the saints. In this unit, Real+True explores the power of role models, and the communion of saints. Our hosts explains who the saints are, how we can have a relationship with them, and what role they can play in our lives. Watch out for news about Real+True presenting at the Vatican this fall.(00:08) Your hosts Emily and Edmund welcome you to the Unit 10 podcast. This unit’s theme is The Church is a communion of God’s family. This section of the Catechism highlights how connected we are to each other in the Church. This unit covers CCC https://www.catholiccrossreference.online/catechism/#!/search/946-962%20 (946-962). Emily shares the video titles: Proclamation: Who are the best role models? Explanation: What is the 'communion of saints'? Connection: Two things to know about the communion of saints. (05:03)  Proclamation video: Emily talks about the guest for the Proclamation video, who says in the video, “I encourage my students to have role models because as a teacher, I try to provide both windows and mirrors for students to help in their development. So for example, students need “mirrors.” They discuss the power of witnesses and how they’ve been personally impacted by role models. (12:28) Stand Out Catechism Paragraph: Emily’s standout paragraph of the Catechism for this section is, “We believe in the communion of all the faithful of Christ, those who are pilgrims on earth, the dead who are being purified, and the blessed in heaven, all together forming one Church; and we believe that in this communion, the merciful love of God and his saints is always [attentive] to our prayers” This reminded Emily that there are holy people that she can ask for intercession, people who might not have been officially canonized yet. Edmund’s paragraph is CCC959 “In the one family of God. "For if we continue to love one another and to join in praising the Most Holy Trinity — all of us who are sons of God and form one family in Christ — we will be faithful to the deepest vocation of the Church." He was moved by this because it brought his made to the question, “what is church?” (19:02) Explanation video: Emily comments on learning a lot through creating this video. Edmund shares that we are not alone as we struggle and suffer. We can win grace for each other. But also, have the ability to hurt each other in our sin. This connectedness is radical. “How would this belief change the way we interact and encounter each other?” (25:05) Connection video: Mother Teresa! Austin Weigel's story is highlighted and displays the rippling effects of holiness. Edmund says that we share in the virtues of one another. Emily tells us that the story of the saints are powerful to share with those we’re sharing the faith with, or who are suffering. Edmund has been inspired by St. Francis of Assisi. Emily has felt moved by St. Paul, and St. Augustine. Emily shares an exciting update that some of the Real+True team is traveling to Rome in September for the International Congress for Catechesis. They will present some of the Real+True content to the Congress at the Vatican.An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Join Emily and Edmund as they dive into the mystery of the Church! Unit 9 is all about the Church as one, holy, catholic, and apostolic. This episode breaks open the invitation of unity offered to us by the Catholic Church, and reveals how the Catechism articulates that invitation. Emily references Star Wars, and Edmund reflects on how we can transform our attitudes toward our neighborhoods. Take a listen! Show Notes: (00:11) Your hosts Emily and Edmund welcome you to the Unit 9 podcast. This unit’s theme is  The church is one, holy, catholic, and apostolic. It covers CCC 748-945, 963-975. Emily shares the video titles: Proclamation: The difference between given and chosen families Explanation: One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic. Connection: “Church” vs “church” Edmund shares this was a fun unit to create. (04:57) Proclamation video: The difference between given and chosen families. Emily references a Han Solo Movie quote that outlines that ‘tribe’ and ‘family’ can mean the same thing for some, but not for all. Edmund shares  “God is not like a family. Families are like God.” As evangelizers, we must keep in mind that people come from various backgrounds and experiences of family.  (9:48) Stand Out Catechism Paragraph: Edmund was struck by CCC https://www.catholiccrossreference.online/catechism/#!/search/772 (772) “It is in the Church that Christ fulfills and reveals his own mystery as the purpose of God's plan: "to unite all things in him." St. Paul calls the nuptial union of Christ and the Church "a great mystery." Because she is united to Christ as to her bridegroom, she becomes a mystery in her turn. Contemplating this mystery in her, Paul exclaims: "Christ in you, the hope of glory." This passage moved him because it reminds him that the Church is a joyful invitation to unity. Emily’s stand out Catechism paragraph for this unit is, “806 In the unity of this Body, there is a diversity of members and functions. All members are linked to one another, especially to those who are suffering, to the poor and persecuted.” She liked this passage because it articulates how linked we are together through the body of Christ. (18:48) Explanation video: One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic. Emily talks about the Catholic church as more than a building. Emily shares  how the Church doesn’t always align with modern values but that the Church is bigger than social currents and movements. (24:37) Connection video: Edmund asks the question, “How can we bring more ‘church’ to our neighborhood instead of bringing our neighborhood to church?” Emily shares that a grace of conversion was realizing how deeply she belongs in the Church, “I am the church! You are part of the Church. You are the branch of the church wherever you go.” You’re invited to visit realtrue.org to connect with Real+True. An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

This unit is all about the Holy Spirit. Join Real+True as we explore God’s breath, and how we are transformed by the Holy Spirit. Edmund gives us a new tool for teaching about the Holy Spirit. Emily shares behind-the-scenes insights about a major Real+True announcement. Together they explain how the Holy Spirit wants to lead us and guide us on our faith journey. (00:11) Emily and Edmund welcome you to this episode and announce the big news that Real+True has received the official endorsement (patronage) of the Holy See through the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization. This honor comes after Real+True was presented to leaders in the Vatican. (04:21) Edmund introduces Unit 8. The thesis: The Holy Spirit is the Lord and Giver of Life and covers CCC 683-747, the section entitled, “I believe in the Holy Spirit.” The Proclamation video is entitled, “The Power of Breath.” The Explanation video asks the question,” Who is the Holy Spirit?” And finally, the Connection video poses the question, “What it means to be transformed by the Holy Spirit.”  Together, they discuss the Proclamation video and how considering breath can lead us to understand the Holy Spirit in a deeper way.(10:35) Stand out Section: Emily highlights CCC 736, “By this power of the Spirit, God's children can bear much fruit. He who has grafted us onto the true vine will make us bear "the fruit of the Spirit: . . . love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control… Through the HolySpirit, we are restored to paradise, lead back to the kingdom of heaven. "   This passage has encouraged her to invite the Holy Spirit into her life.Edmund shares CCC 684 “Through his grace, the Holy Spirit is the first to awaken faith in us and to communicate to us the new life, which is to "know the Father and the one whom he has sent, Jesus Christ." But the Spirit is the last of the persons of the Holy Trinity to be revealed. St. Gregory of Nazianzus, the Theologian, explains this progression in terms of the pedagogy of divine "condescension".(16:30) The Explanation tackles the question, “Who is the Holy Spirit?” The hosts discuss how the Holy Spirit can seem distant or vague, but the Creed and Scripture reveal to us ways to understand the Holy Spirit. The Connection video is titled “What it means to be transformed by the Holy Spirit.” The video shoot at a pottery studio is discussed, including a mishap with the firing of two vases. Emily makes the point that pottery is sealed through fire, and we are “sealed with the Holy Spirit” in Confirmation.  (25:023) Emily reminds us that each unit has a discussion guide at realtrue.org. Like the videos, all resources on the realtrue.org website are free and easy to use. Thanks for listening.An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Summary: Why do we take pictures of our food for social media? This episode enters into the mystery of the Eucharist- as sacrifice and communion. This is the first themed Unit for Real + True. It is inspired by the USCCB’s Eucharistic Revival that launches this summer. Take a listen as Emily and Edmund explain the decisions behind using the story of St. Maximilian Kolbe, imagery from Frank Sheed, and the power of Eucharistic Adoration. Learn more about the power and practice of sitting with Jesus in silence. Take a listen! Shownotes: (00:11) Edmund Mitchell and Emily Mentock welcome you to this first themed episode of the Real + True podcast. Emily shares that this unit focuses on the Eucharistic. The thesis of this unit: the Eucharist is sacrifice and communion.This Eucharistic Revival unit joins an initiative of the USCCB, a movement to “start a fire” of devotion and belief in the Eucharist. The US Bishops are responding to widespread disbelief in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The document from the USCCB on the Eucharistic Revival,“The Mystery of the Eucharist in the Life of the Church” influenced this unit.(4:19) Proclamation video: this video starts with explaining, “what is sacrifice?” Sacrifices are deeply spiritual acts. As an opener, this video tells the story of St. Maximilian Kolbe- an example of a sacrifice for something greater than us. Originally, the production team considered using the story of someone who donated their kidney, but the final decision was made to use the story of Maximilian Kolbe because it best mirrored the gift Jesus made for us on the Cross. Edmund mentions that Pope Benedict XVI wrote that through the Eucharist, “we enter into the very dynamic of his self-giving." The Mass re-presents to us the real sacrifice of Christ. (9:05) Stand out section: with this special episode, Emily and Edmund share their favorite quotes from the document on the Eucharist from the USCCB: “The Mystery of the Eucharist in the Life of the Church.” Edmund’s stand out section is, “The love that we celebrate in the sacrament is not something we can keep to ourselves. By its very nature it demands to be shared with all.” This is a quote from Pope Benedict XVI (No. 56.) He liked this quote because it highlights the reality that once we encounter Jesus in the Eucharist, we share this good news with others. Emily’s stand out paragraph is: The Sacrament of the Eucharist is called Holy Communion precisely because, by placing us in intimate communion with the sacrifice of Christ, we are placed in intimate communion with him and, through him, with each other.” (No. 25) Emily felt this quote was important because it emphasizes that the Eucharist brings us together as a Church. (13:30) Explanation video: The Eucharist as Communion and Sacrifice. This video opens with the idea of all meals including death and community. Emily mentions that the trend to take photos on social media possibly stems from a natural instinct to share our food with others, because meals are communal. Frank Sheed’s image of cells in a body is used in this video to explain how the Eucharist transforms us into God. Emily notes that this video includes some of the strongest imagery of any video so far. (18:27) Connection video: How silence can change your life. The focus of this video is on Eucharistic Adoration. Edmund draws the audience’s attention to the power of silence. “It’s free and personal” is how Emily explains Eucharistic Adoration. They discuss how the Mass can be a richer and more prayerful experience if we enter into prayer outside of Mass in Eucharistic Adoration. In Adoration, we can bring our head, hand, and heart to God, and he brings us into a place of rest.(23:32) This unit is special because it pulls from both the Catechism and the USCCB document. The beauty of the CaAn OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Summary: Dive into Unit 7, which brings to focus the center of our faith: Jesus Christ. Explore the heart of the Catechism as your hosts Emily and Edmund explain how these videos can be used to share the faith. Learn about a strategy change for the Proclamation video, and learn what lines are “worth the whole Catechism” in the Explanation video. We touch on feedback from a listener, newly published discussion guides, and much more. Take a listen!Shownotes: (00:11) Edmund Mitchell and Emily Mentock welcome you to this episode of the Real + True podcast. This episode brings to life Unit 7, which covers CCC 422-682 and its thesis is: Jesus Christ is true God and true man. The three videos for this unit are: Proclamation: Was Jesus a real person (or really God)? Explanation: Why did God become man? Connection:  What does it mean to have a relationship with God? (3:00) Emily addresses a strategy change for this unit. This includes a shift from the usual focus of the first video in the unit. The proclamation is typically less religious and focuses on creating common ground with the audience, and drawing from their own life experiences. Because Jesus is the focus of this unit, the first unit includes a discussion about Jesus. The focus is on Jesus as a historical figure, and not so much as a religious leader. (5:54) Edmund reminds us that “All of Catechesis directs itself back to Jesus Christ.” CCC 426  “At the heart of catechesis we find, in essence, a Person, the Person of Jesus “ Every doctrine is related to Jesus. Catechesis is not about learning facts or truths but is about encountering the person of Jesus. (8:22) The almost-interview: Edmund shares a story of his friend JP meeting Gordon Ramsey. The story illustrates the point that we can know a lot about someone but encountering someone person-to-person is a very different thing. A personal relationship is built when we encounter someone personally. Edmund mentions Walker Percy’s The Loss of the Creature. (14:00) Stand out Catechism paragraph: Edmund’s standout section is CCC 460: “The Word became flesh to make us "partakers of the divine nature": "For this is why the Word became man, and the Son of God became the Son of man: so that man, by entering into communion with the Word and thus receiving divine sonship, might become a son of God." This caught his because it illustrates how radical it is that God calls us to share in the divine life of God.” Emily’s standout passage is CCC 561: "The whole of Christ's life was a continual teaching: his silences, his miracles, his gestures, his prayer, his love for people, his special affection for the little and the poor, his acceptance of the total sacrifice on the Cross for the redemption of the world, and his Resurrection are the actualization of his word and the fulfillment of Revelation". This statement was powerful to Emily because it displays God’s model for how we can live in relation to others. (20:12) Shout out to a listener: Roy Sibaja!(24:02) The Unit 7 Explanation video explores the mystery of “why did God become man?” Emily and Edmund share about their childhood images of what God looks like. And how the focus of the video brings to light the reasons God became man: love, reconciliation, holiness, and the divine life. Barbara Morgan, the founder of the Catechetics department at the Franciscan University of Steubenville would say, “These four paragraphs are worth the whole Catechism.”(24:48) Connection Video: What does it mean to have a relationship with God? This video is a fun and dynamic video which asks questions that prompt the watchers to encounter the truth of who Jesus is. “That’s what all of it is about.” Edmund shares about how his experience in college of friends who talked about Jesus in a personal way helped Edmund re-evaluate how he was relating to JesuAn OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

Join Emily and Edmund as they dive into Unit 6. This podcast is packed. You’ll hear about Emily’s wonder at creation, Edmund’s favorite Catechism passage, and some listener feedback. A highlight of this episode is the process around animating imagery for the Trinity; Emily explains the “why” behind what you’ll see in Unit 6. Edmund takes on a Catechism Challenge in this episode. And finally, learn about this Real + True project being presented to the Vatican. Take a listen!Show Notes: [00:10] Introduction + Overview of EpisodeThe Thesis of Unit 6 is “God is the Creator of Heaven and Earth” and covers Catechism sections 232-421. This Unit has three videos: Proclamation: The Mystery of Life, Explanation: The Story of Creation, Connection: Your story and THE story.  [04:24] Proclamation: Wonder and Awe Emily shares her experience of wonder at creation, and how a course through UC Berkeley, encountering nature in the Midwest, and Planet Earth have shaped her heart to wonder at the world around her. Emily dissects the difference between awe and shame. Creation is complicated but humility helps us find our place within the huge diversity, vastness, and beauty of what God has made. [11:30] Standout Section of the Catechism: Edmund and Emily’s Favorite Passages Emily was most moved by Catechism 384: “Revelation makes known to us the state of original holiness and justice of man and woman before sin: from their friendship with God flowed the happiness of their existence in paradise.” Emily loved this section because it reminds her that God created us for peace and justice. Edmund’s stand-out section was Catechism 286: “Human intelligence is surely already capable of finding a response to the question of origins. The existence of God the Creator can be known with certainty through his works, by the light of human reason, even if this knowledge is often obscured and disfigured by error. This is why faith comes to confirm and enlighten reason in the correct understanding of this truth: "By faith we understand that the world was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made out of things which do not appear’” Edmund was moved because this statement honors man’s dignity, that our intellects can find God through creation.  [17:10]  Animating the Mystery of the Trinity: Edmund shares wisdom from a theology professor. Emily shares an insight for the animation behind images of the Trinity in the Real + True videos. The challenge to capture visually what we believe about the Trinity resulted in the kaleidoscope imagery. [20:53] Shoutout to A Podcast Listener: Our listeners (that’s YOU) play an important part in making the Catechism come to life. In this section, Emily shares feedback we received from a listener. The listener shared that Real + True is being used at his parish for those considering baptism and entering the Catholic Church. [21:33] The Story Mechanism: the Explanation Video Emily shares that there is much more to the creation story than she knew. Edmund shares about how in his childhood he did not understand that his life was part of the larger story of creation. Edmund references good storytelling in movies, and how God is the best storyteller. [24:44] The Connection Video: Your story and THE story The film Noah is used as an example of how important storytelling is. The analogy used in the Connection video is explained in more depth. Edmund tells us that Catholic doctrines and teachings can often seem like disconnected beads but the power of storytelling is that it threads the beads of our beliefs together to create a unified understanding of Creation. The readings at the Easter Vigil are a powerful experience of encountering the story of Creation and Salvation.  [32:37] A Catechism GameEmily challenges Edmund by choosing “random” parts of Catholicism and asks An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

This Unit 5 podcast is packed! Your hosts Emily and Edmund share about animating the burning bush, the power of knowing God’s name, and much more. The thesis for Unit 5 is, “I believe in God.” Belief in God as a person, not as a distant concept is addressed. Edmund shares about being cast as an astronaut for a day and the power of the Creed. Emily shares a story of persecuted Christians professing the Creed in the face of opposition. The episode closes with an exciting announcement about the global reach of Real + True. Take a listen! [00:12] Introduction + Overview of Episode Your Real + True hosts Edmund and Emily introduce themselves and this Unit 5 podcast. This Unit covers CCC 185-231 and the thesis of the episode is: “I believe in God.” The Unit includes three videos: Proclamation: What’s in a name? Explanation: “Who is God?” Connection: “What is the Creed? And why is it important?” In this Unit of videos, you’re invited to consider, “God is a person; how do we relate to God?” The hosts mention the Rock family, who is interviewed for one of the videos for this unit. [06:40] Proclamation Video: The Implications of Knowing God’s Name Emily challenges listeners, “We talk about ‘God’ but do we really stop and think about what that means?” God has revealed himself to us. The burning bush scene from scripture is discussed. It was a particularly fun scene to write and animate for the team; they enjoyed bringing it to life. The power of knowing someone’s name is addressed. Emily asks, “Do you know what Jesus’ name means?” Jesus’ identity is his mission. [9:35] Favorite Part of the Episode: Standout Catechism Paragraph Edmund and Emily share what paragraphs stood out to them. Edmund was moved by paragraph CCC 229: “Faith in God leads us to turn to him alone as our first origin and our ultimate goal, and neither to prefer anything to him nor to substitute anything for him.” This challenged Edmund to think, “Do I prefer God over everything else?” Emily was most struck by CCC 222-227. This section discusses the great consequences of believing in God, namely, it means coming to know God’s greatness and majesty, living in thanksgiving, knowing the unity and true dignity of all men, making good use of created things, and trusting God in every circumstance. Emily attests to the fact that her trust in God increased while working on this project through encountering this section. [15:05] Explanation Video: The concepts that inspired this video are addressed. Edmund talks about the first time he encountered the concept of God. Emily explains that faith is the belief in a “who” not a “what.” God wants us to know him as a person, not as a distant concept. The statement, “I believe in God” changes everything about our lives. [20:17] Connection Video: “I believe in God.” Perhaps this is the part of the Mass that is most memorized. Edmund shares his experience of being an astronaut for a day. Edmund explains that the Creed unifies the faithful, and is a powerful statement of belief in God. Emily mentions a powerful story of Christians who professed the Creed together in the face of persecution. The hosts pose the question, “Does the Creed really change our lives?” [27:05] Announcement: Real + Verdadero has launched! Real + True is a global project, releasing videos in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French. New this week, this Real + True podcast is now available in Spanish. The goal is that all people would encounter the heart of the Catechism: Jesus Christ. [28:08] Recap + Mission: The Catechism is a faithful echo of a God who desires to reveal himself to us. Real + True transforms the Catechism into a living voice for the modern world. Connect with Real + True through the Real + True newsletter, facebook, instagram, twitter, LinkedIn, realtrue.org, and this podcast. Share with a frieAn OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

In our Unit 4 Podcast, we discuss the thesis of this unit: Faith is a free and personal response to God made possible by grace. To highlight what trust in God really is, Emily shares a childhood experience that went into the scripts, and Edmund gives insight into a fatherhood moment with his kids. Plus: We have an announcement about our animation team, and share the news that we’re out of the pilot stage![00:53] Welcome and Unit Overview!Edmund and Emily welcome you to the fourth Real + True podcast. In this installment, they discuss Unit Four which covers Catechisms paragraphs 142-184.[01:49] Proclamation Video:The topic for this video is: "The power of call and response in music." Edmund shares about his friend Matt, and how Matt uses “call and response” in worship. They discuss how this dynamic is used in liturgy and in the Mass. Emily shares about her experience with “call and response” in sports situations. [09:40] Stand Out Paragraphs: Edmund shares about the section that stood out to him, CCC 170, "We do not believe in formulas, but in those realities they express which faith allows us to touch. The believers act of faith does not terminate in the propositions, but in the realities, which they express." Emily shares her stand out section, CCC 154, "Believing is possible only by grace and the interior helps of the holy spirit, but it is no less true that believing is an authentically human act." What’s your stand out section? Share on social media! [14:11] Explanation Video + Spiderman The thesis of this video is, “Faith is a free and personal response to God made possible by grace."” Edmund uses the example of Spinderman falling to illustrate this point. Emily recounts the story of the diving board referenced in the video. [20:05] News: New Animation Team + Post- Pilot StageWe’re excited to announce that we’ve officially moved out of the pilot stage of this project. We’d like to thank Our Sunday Visitor and everyone who has supported the project.. With this new stage, we’ve hired a new animation team. And we’re very excited about it. [20:54] Connection VideoThe thesis of this video is, "Do you trust me?" Edmund and Emily discuss how our inclinations toward or against trusting others can affect how we relate to God. [22:57] Edmund Fathering His Son: Edmund tells a story from his own life as a father that illustrates the point that trust is built on a relationship with a person, not just the words spoken by the person. [24:43] Final Thoughts, an Announcement, and Closing: Emily and Edmund share that being in relationship with God is not like being a robot. Relationship with God requires our intellect and will. We trust Him because He has revealed Himself to be trustworthy. Thank you for being part of Real + True! Let’s reach another million viewers! https://www.osvhub.com/donate/funds/real-true-the-catechism-project (Support Real + True Podcast) An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

In this episode, we discuss the videos from Unit 03. The Real + True Podcast is a place for us to discuss the unit of videos in more detail, dive deeper into the content, and share a bit of the behind the scenes of working toward our mission. In this episode, we'll cover the videos from Unit 03 which explore the Catechism paragraph 50-141.*[00:53] Welcome and Unit Overview! *Emily and Edmund open the third episode sharing a brief overview of the videos from Unit 03 and the thesis statement that holds it all together. “God Desires to Reveal Himself to Us."[01:45] Proclamation VideoWe explain the content strategy behind the Proclamation Video, and a little behind the scenes of how we brainstormed and came up with the approach to this video. [05:35] Stand Out Catechism ParagraphsIn this segment, we share one catechism paragraph from the unit that stood out to us. We'd love for you to pray and read through the catechism yourself, and let us know what paragraph stood out to you and why. Let us know on social media![06:57] Divine Revelation and the Jewish Wedding FeastIn this segment, we talk about the deposit of faith and revelation as it relates to a story of an ancient Jewish wedding tradition of veiling the bride. [14:01] Explanation and Connection VideosDiscussion of the Explanation and Connection Videos from Unit 03.[18:24] Closing ThoughtsWe are so excited about the reaction to the pilot and reaching 1 million views! We've launched the first three units of Real + True. We hope you join us in sharing unit three with your friends and family. Thanks for joining us in the mission of Real + True!https://www.osvhub.com/donate/funds/real-true-the-catechism-project (Support Real + True Podcast)An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.

[00:30] Welcome and Unit Overview!Emily and Edmund open the second episode sharing a brief overview of the videos from Unit 01 and the thesis statement that holds it all together. “The Desire for God is Written on the Human Heart”[01:30] Proclamation VideoWe explain the content strategy behind the Proclamation Video, and a little behind the scenes of how we brainstormed and came up with the approach to this video. [10:00] Stand Out Catechism ParagraphsIn this segment, we share one catechism paragraph from the unit that stood out to us. We'd love for you to pray and read through the catechism yourself, and let us know what paragraph stood out to you and why. Let us know on social media![14:34] Explanation and Connection VideosDiscussion of the Explanation and Connection Videos from Unit 02.[22:00] Closing ThoughtsWe are so excited about the reaction to the first unit of videos. We hope you join us in sharing unit two with your friends and family. Thanks for joining us in the mission of Real + True!https://www.osvhub.com/donate/funds/real-true-the-catechism-project (Support Real + True Podcast)An OSV Podcasts partner. Discover more ways to live, learn, and love your Catholic faith at osvpodcasts.com. Sharing stories, starting conversations.