What is the right age for confirmation? Why was my priest assigned to a different parish? Should parish pastoral councils be mandatory? Is it OK to wash the feet of people in jail? Bishop Kevin Sweeney responds to these questions, critiques, and more in an episode dedicated entirely to feedback from our viewers, listeners, and social media community. Jai Agnish and Cecile Pagliarulo take turns putting these questions and comments to the bishop and add their own. Bishop Kevin responds to:Criticism for washing the feet of inmates for Holy ThursdayAdministering confirmation at middle school age or high school ageMemories from parishioners at St. Michael’s in BrooklynPriest assignmentsParish pastoral councilsWhat happens to last year's Chrism Oils?Promoting movies and events from the pulpitChildhood picture for National Siblings DayPermanent diaconateThis episode was made possible because of you! We want to continue the conversation. Keep the comments and questions coming! Email beyond@patersondiocese.org. Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram. Follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram,  Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish). Next week, Father Marc Mancini, diocesan judicial vicar and pastor of St. James the Marches Parish in Totowa, will discuss the annulment process. We invite our viewers and listeners to send in questions.Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Produced by Jai Agnish, Cecile Pagliarulo, and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered, edited, and theme song by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

What role does faith play when building friendships? This week on Beyond the Beacon’s 50th episode, a group of students, along with Colette Geraghty, campus minister, from Villa Walsh Academy (VWA) in Morristown, join Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Cecile Pagliarulo to discuss how faith can influence our choice in friends. The students, a mix of sophomores and seniors from VWA, served by the Religious Teachers Filippini, also discuss the recent high school synod listening session held last month with our diocesan high schools. Colette shares her experiences in mission work and serving the Church.  In two weeks, Father Marc Mancini, diocesan judicial vicar and pastor of St. James the Marches Parish in Totowa, will talk about the annulment process. We invite our viewers and listeners to send in questions. Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Email questions and topic ideas for Bishop Kevin: beyond@patersondiocese.org. SHOW NOTES Villa Walsh Academy in Morristown Christ in the CityProduced by Cecile Pagliarulo, Jai Agnish, and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered, edited, and theme song by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram. Follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram,  Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

The Easter Season is an opportunity to renew our baptismal promises and recommit ourselves to Christ. For episode 49 of Beyond The Beacon, Bishop Kevin Sweeney reflects on the significance of Holy Week. Learn what it's like to experience Holy Week from the perspective of a bishop. As a bonus, discover what Bishop Kevin's favorite Holy Week Mass or service is. Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe!Email questions and topic ideas for Bishop Kevin: beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESPalm Sunday Mass with Bishop Kevin Sweeney livestream archiveChrism Mass with Bishop Kevin Sweeney livestream archiveProduced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered, edited, and theme song by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram. Follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram,  Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

What does “I am 1 in 4” mean? There’s a population of women who know exactly what this means firsthand. It means they lost a child through miscarriage. On Episode 48 of Beyond the Beacon, Jennifer Nelson joins Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Cecile Pagliarulo to discuss the Sisterhood of the Traveling Relics of St. Gianna, a prayer card ministry bonded by St. Gianna Beretta Molla. The “Sisterhood” is an international group of mothers of children on earth and in heaven that includes married women facing infertility and single women with hearts that long to serve others. Jennifer is the director of Religious Education at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Rockaway, N.J. She wrote an inspiring book, Super J and the Power of Love, which brings readers into the world of a loving and joy-filled child with Down syndrome. Jennifer has been married to the love of her life, Derek, for 20 years. They have seven saints in training, ages 17-1, and three little ones waiting for them in heaven. She dreams of one day traveling to Milan with her family to see St. Gianna's Shrine in person. Thanks for joining us! Please like and subscribe! Email questions for Bishop Kevin: beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESSisterhood of the Traveling Relics of St. GiannaWOF 394: The Beauty of Sainthood w/ Dr. Gianna Emanuela MollaSuper J and the Power of Love John Paul Von Arx's music video for his original song "He's Different""If I Could See Through Your Eyes" (music video) by Array Of HopeHearts of Joy InternationalCatholic Charities Department for Persons with DisabilitiesWelcome Home to HealingProduced by  Cecile Pagliarulo, Jai Agnish, and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson. Engineered, edited, and theme song by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram. Follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram,  Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

What's the secret to passing on the faith? A father and teenage son explore the nuances of this question and more with Bishop Kevin Sweeney and co-host Jai Agnish for episode 47 of Beyond The Beacon. Dennis Dalelio and his oldest son, Eli, -- close friends of Agnish's -- strive to live a life of faith, hope, and love in Vernon, N.J., where they live and are active in catechesis at Our Lady of Fatima. Eli is a 17-year-old senior at Sussex County Technical School. He was confirmed by Bishop Kevin two years ago when he took the confirmation name, Albertus Magnus. Dennis is a long-time photography teacher at Paramus High School. He also volunteers at his parish, taking photos and teaching the faith as an eighth-grade catechist. Dennis has photographed for our diocesan newspaper, The Beacon, and created and hosts the The Stolen Hours podcast. Dennis also designed the artwork for Beyond The Beyond. Thanks for joining us! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESListen and subscribe to guest Dennis Dalelio's podcast, The Stolen Hours. Learn more about vocations work in the Diocese of Paterson, including the upcoming "Stairway to Heaven" hike and outdoor Mass here.  Learn more about the Diocese of Paterson's pilgrimage to the National Eucharistic Congress here.Register for a synod listening session here.Learn more about opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation offered every Monday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. during Lent at all of our parishes here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson. Production assistance from Cecile Pagliarulo.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

How can history inspire our faith? Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish visit Our Lady of the Magnificat in Kinnelon, N.J., for a remote podcast episode. On display in the church narthex is a giant museum-quality photo exhibition of the Shroud of Turin. Tune in to the video version of this episode for the full impact! This week's guest, Father Steven Shadwell, elaborates on how this unique historical experience came to life at his parish. In addition to three life-size photographs of the actual Shroud, the exhibit includes over 40 storyboards depicting various aspects of the history of the Shroud. Call the parish office at 973-838-6838 to reserve a Wednesday night tour slot or to learn more. On this episode, Bishop Kevin also discusses the temporary closure of the historic St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Paterson on March 1. The parishioners of St. Michael's have been invited to attend Mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, a few blocks away, where they will be warmly welcomed by Msgr. Geno Sylva, the priests, staff, and parishioners.Thanks for joining us! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESLearn more about the Shroud of Turin exhibit here, or call the parish office of Our Lady of the Magnificat in Kinnelon, N.J., at 973-838-6838. Learn more about the Diocese of Paterson's pilgrimage to the National Eucharistic Congress here. An evening of Eucharistic adoration and praise and worship is Sunday, March 10, at St. Mary's in Pompton Lakes, N.J., at 7 p.m. All are welcome. Learn more about opportunities for the sacrament of reconciliation offered every Monday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. during Lent at all of our parishes here.Register for a synod listening session here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson. Production assistance from Cecile Pagliarulo.Thank you to the staff of Our Lady of the Magnificat for their assistance on location. Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

How do you have a "spiritual conversation?" Father Paul Manning and Maria Moncaleano join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish to discuss the interim phase of the Synod on Synodality and new listening sessions. All are welcome to listening sessions hosted by the Diocese of Paterson in English or Spanish on Wednesday, March 13, at Reverend Brown Memorial School in Sparta, from 7 to 9 p.m.; Monday, March 18, at Pope John Paul II Pastoral Center in Clifton, from 7 to 9 p.m.; and Saturday, March 23, at St. Paul Inside the Walls in Madison, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Learn more and register here. Father Paul is the vicar for Evangelization, and Maria is the director of the Office of Hispanic Ministry. Together, they chair the Diocesan Synod Committee.How does this journeying together allow the Church to proclaim the Gospel in accordance with the mission entrusted to Her? What steps does the Spirit invite us to take? The Synod on Synodality is a three-year global process of listening and dialogue, beginning with a solemn opening in Rome on Oct. 9 and 10, 2021. The aim of this synodal process is not to provide a temporary or one-time experience of synodality but rather to provide an opportunity for the entire People of God to discern together how to move forward on the path towards being a more synodal Church in the long term.  Thanks for joining us! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESRegister for a synod listening session here.Learn more about the Synod on Synodality here.  Learn about the upcoming discernment retreat here.Learn more about opportunities for the sacrament reconciliation offered every Monday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. during Lent at all of our parishes here.Listen to episode 28 of Beyond The Beacon entitled, "What is synodality? With Father Manning and Msgr. Kupke."Learn more about the Cabrini movie premiere here.Watch the Coffee with Kupke podcast, which Father Paul Manning cohosts here. Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson. Production assistance from Cecile Pagliarulo.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram andThe Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Lent -- and any time, really -- is an opportunity for us to consider the sacrament of reconciliation. Not only does penance free us from our sins, but it also challenges us to have the same kind of compassion and forgiveness for those who sin against us.  All are invited to celebrate the gift of forgiveness in the sacrament of reconciliation (confession) at any church in the Diocese of Paterson on Mondays during Lent from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This opportunity for confession is available as part of our Welcome Home to Healing initiative. For this episode of Beyond the Beacon, Father Jared Brogan joins Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish to discuss the significance of going to confession and more. Father Jared is the director of the Office of Divine Worship and Master of Ceremonies for the Diocese of Paterson. He was ordained a priest of the Paterson Diocese in 2011 by Bishop Arthur Serratelli. Father Jared has ministered in various capacities throughout his priesthood, including as pastor of St. Catherine of Siena in Mountain Lakes. He served as an assistant vocation director and has been on diocesan committees, the Presbyteral Council, and the College of Consultors for several terms. He is also an adjunct professor at Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology (Seton Hall University) and assists at various parishes on the weekends. Thanks for joining us! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESLearn more about opportunities for the sacrament reconciliation offered every Monday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. during Lent at all of our parishes here.Learn about the upcoming discernment retreat here. Listen to episode 40 of Beyond The Beacon entitled, "A vocation discernment retreat can offer the way forward."Learn more about the Cabrini movie premiere here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson. Production assistance from Cecile Pagliarulo.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Have you ever asked: How can I be a better husband? How can I be a better wife? We attempt to answer those questions and more. This week's guests are Brian and Eniola (Eni) Honsberger, a loving Catholic couple celebrating 15 years of marriage in April. In honor of the season of love (Valentine's Day, National Marriage Week, World Marriage Day), they join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish for episode 43 of Beyond The Beacon for an honest discussion about their marriage and more. Eni and Brian also give insights into how the diocese promotes love and marriage in collaboration with our parishes. They both work for the Diocese of Paterson's Office of Evangelization at St. Paul Inside the Walls. Eni is the director of the Office of Family Life, and Brian is the executive director of the Office of Evangelization.Thanks for joining us! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESYou can learn more about the Office of Family Life here.Learn more about opportunities for the Sacrament Reconciliation offered every Monday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. during Lent at all of our parishes here.Watch  Father Mike Schmitz on Evangelization: Telling the Story of God’s Love here.Produced by Jai Agnish, Bishop Kevin Sweeney, and Joseph Ginexi for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish and Joseph Ginexi.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

We welcome back Cecile Pagliarulo to discuss the Eucharist's impact on the spiritual life of young adults. Bishop Kevin Sweeney also announces a video contest for two trips to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis this summer. Cecile, who manages social media for the Diocese of Paterson, reveals the contest rules while reflecting on her experience of Eucharistic adoration and her role as a catechist at St. Anthony Church in Passaic. They also discuss many ways the diocese is taking part in the National Eucharistic Revival locally, including offering Eucharistic Adoration nights. Bishop Kevin discusses the uniqueness of Valentine’s Day falling on Ash Wednesday this year and why he prefers not to issue a dispensation. Cecile, Bishop Kevin, and co-host Jai Agnish also look ahead to Lent. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESLearn more about the contest here.Learn more about the pilgrimage to the National Eucharistic Congress here.Local Eucharistic Adoration nights at 7 p.m.:Friday, Feb. 9, at Prince of Peace (William Paterson University) in Haledon.Sunday, Marcy 10, at St. Mary's in Pompton Lakes.Wednesday, April 10, at St. Paul Inside the Walls in Madison.Wednesday, Sept. 18, at FDU/Drew UniversityFriday, Oct. 11, at St. Therese Parish in Roxbury TownshipListen to the episode of Revive: The National Eucharistic Revival Podcast the bishop referenced here. Produced by Jai Agnish, Bishop Kevin Sweeney, and Cecile Pagliarulo for the Diocese of Paterson. Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Featured on this episode is 21-time bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins who has written over 200 books, including his latest entitled, "The Chosen: And I Will Give You Rest." It's the third book in a series based on the record-breaking television series created by his son Dallas Jenkins. Jerry opens up about his son's success with The Chosen and why he thinks the series is so popular. Jerry also discusses the last time "lightning struck" the family with the wild success of the Left Behind series, which he co-authored with Tim LaHaye between 1995 and 2007. He and the bishop reflect on the power of biblical fiction to draw people to Jesus. They also talk baseball because Jerry was a former newspaper sportswriter who began covering sports at the age of 14. He went on to write sports biographies (Hank Aaron, Walter Payton, Nolan Ryan, and Orel Hershiser). Bishop Kevin also reflects on the tragic suicide death of Passaic County Sheriff Richard H. Berdnik, his funeral, and Church teaching regarding Catholic burials in such situations. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESLearn more about Jerry B. Jenkins at jerryjenkins.com.Learn more about The Chosen TV series at thechosen.tv/en-us.Watch the archived livestream of Passaic County Sheriff Richard H. Berdnik's funeral here.Are you experiencing mental health challenges such as loneliness, anxiety, or depression? Call The Upper Room Hotline (a faith-based hotline in the Catholic tradition) at 1-888-808-8724. Visit catholichotline.org to learn more. You can also call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 anytime. Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Have you ever asked yourself, "What does God want me to do with my life?" The vocations office of the Diocese of Paterson is hosting a discernment retreat during the first weekend of March to help young men get a step closer to answering that question. For this episode, a young priest and a seminarian join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish to discuss the discernment process and the value of spiritual retreats. John Peter Zappe is in his final year of minor seminary undergraduate studies at The College Seminary of the Immaculate Conception at St. Andrew's Hall. Father Frank Lennie was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Paterson in May 2021 by Bishop Kevin. The two young men share their experiences of answering their vocational calling and invite other young men to consider attending the retreat. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESTo register for the discernment retreat and learn more about vocations, visit patersonvocations.org. For the Prayer for Radical Solidarity, visit respectlife.org/prayer-for-radical-solidarity.Watch the music video for John Paul Von Arx's song entitled "He's Different" at johnpaulvonarx.com/hes-different. Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

While Facebook was created in 2004 by a college student, fast forward 20 years later, several other social media apps reign superior for today’s youth.Two students and a teacher join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and guest co-host Cecile Pagliarulo to discuss social media. Caitlin Farley, a high school senior, and Emily Dymkowski, a high school junior, attend Mary Help of Christians Academy in North Haledon. They share their insights into the world of social media and the youth. Also joining the conversation is Salesian Sister Christina Chong, a Theology teacher who also handles marketing and communications at the school. Cecile manages social media for the Diocese of Paterson and works closely with Bishop Kevin to make his Instagram account go. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESLearn about Mary Help of Christians Academy, an all-girl Catholic preparatory school in the Salesian tradition: https://www.maryhelp.org.Produced by Jai Agnish, Cecile Pagliarulo, and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson. Production assistance from Salesian Sister Theresa Lee.Engineered by Joseph Ginexi. Edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Is Bishop Kevin a cat person or a dog person? Tune in to find out!Bishop Kevin Sweeney invites his Paterson neighbor, John DeCando, onto the show for a fun Beyond The Beacon episode about animals. Together with co-host Jai Agnish, they discuss their four-legged friends, and John recounts some amusing and heroic animal rescue stories from 50 years of working for the city of Paterson. John is a local legend known for saving – not just cats and dogs – but even sheep and a cow running around on Route 80 once. He’s told these wild tales on countless television news reports and even appeared on Late Night with David Letterman. John recently received the honor of a key to the city, and although he spent some time as a police officer and housing inspector over the years, he said that “the good Lord brought him back,” doing what he loves to do: working with animals. John and Bishop Kevin live a couple of blocks away in Paterson and have become good friends. John also is and was friends with the previous two bishops of the diocese. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESYou can learn more about the animal services provided by the city of Paterson here. Learn more about the pilgrimage to the National Eucharistic Congress here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

On the first Beyond The Beacon episode of the new year, Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish are joined by Father Alex Nevitt -- a pilot and a French chef -- to discuss the upcoming pilgrimage to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis in July. Father Alex is coordinating our Diocesan participation in this historic event. We discussed the importance of the pilgrimage and had fun getting to know Father Alex, a relatively new priest who is a parochial vicar serving at Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel in the Cedar Knolls neighborhood of Hanover Township. He's also one of the diocesan prison chaplains, and he and Jai talk about their shared passion for piloting single-engine airplanes. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org. SHOW NOTESLearn more about the pilgrimage to the National Eucharistic Congress here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

What is Bishop Kevin Sweeney's favorite Christmas carol? Tune in to find out! This week, for episode 36 of Beyond The Beacon (a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey), Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Jai Agnish are joined by two gifted music ministers for a discussion about music's impact on our faith. Preston Dibble is our long-time Director of Music for the diocese. He also works full-time at Our Lady of Sorrows in South Orange in our neighboring Archdiocese of Newark. As he likes to say, he’s a dual citizen of Paterson and Newark. The same can be said of Jen Behnke, our other guest, who is the part-time music coordinator at one of our parishes, Holy Spirit Church in Pequannock. Jen is also the associate director of evangelization for the Archdiocese of Newark and produces and co-hosts The Heart of the Ark podcast.  Bishop Kevin also gives a reflection on the news out of Rome this week regarding blessings for same-sex couples and the Declaration “Fiducia supplicans” issued by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, approved by Pope Francis.Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESListen to guest Jen Behnke's podcast, Heart of the Ark, here.Read the Declaration “Fiducia supplicans” on the pastoral meaning of blessings here. Listen to episode 123 of The Walk Humbly Podcast here.Listen to the episode of the Jesuitical podcast Bishop Kevin referenced here.Listen to the Hark podcast here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Bishop Kevin Sweeney is joined by guest co-host Brian Honsberger for episode 35 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J.  They explore the richness of the Hispanic Catholic experience with Maria Moncaleano, the director of the Office of Hispanic Ministry for the diocese. Honsberger is the executive director of the Office of Evangelization at St. Paul Inside The Walls. He is also co-host of The Paul Street Journal podcast. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESLearn more about the Office of Hispanic Ministry for the diocese here.Learn more about the Certificado de Liderazgo en Ministerio Hispano con  Especialización en Evangelización here.Donate to the Diocesan Ministries Appeal here.Watch The Paul Street Journal podcast here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow Beyond The Beacon on Instagram and Facebook.Follow Bishop Kevin on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 34 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Joining them this week for a passionate discussion about Catholic school education are Prudence Pigott and Lelia Pappas. Pigott is a powerhouse fundraiser for Catholic schools as president of Tri-County Scholarship Fund. Pappas is a dedicated Catholic school principal whose work in the field goes back years. She serves at Academy of St. James of the Marches in Totowa, N.J.  Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESLearn more about Tri-County Scholarship Fund here.Learn more about Academy of St. James of the Marches here. Learn more about our Catholic schools here.Learn more about priestly vocations here.Donate to the Diocesan Ministries Appeal here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow the bishop on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 33 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Bishop Sweeney gives a Thanksgiving message and reflects on what he is grateful for. In a wide-ranging interview, he discusses his experience at the November meeting of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, attending the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC), and what he's been up to in the diocese.  Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESDonate to the Diocesan Ministries Appeal here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow the bishop on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.

Join Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for episode 32 of Beyond The Beacon, a podcast of the Diocese of Paterson, N.J.  Seminarian Carlos Vargas and Father Charlie Lana -- assistant vocation director for the diocese -- talk priestly vocations as part of  National Vocations Awareness Week. Vargas reflects on his call to the priesthood and what seminarian life is like. We also get to know Father Lana, and he discusses the many ways the diocese and our parishes are supporting priestly vocations. Bishop Sweeney shares insights into his role of assisting in the priestly discernment process for prospective priests. Thanks for listening! Be sure to like this episode, subscribe, and tune in next time! Email questions for Bishop Sweeney to beyond@patersondiocese.org.SHOW NOTESLearn more about priestly vocations in the Diocese of Paterson here. Donate to the Diocesan Ministries Appeal here.Produced by Jai Agnish and Bishop Kevin Sweeney for the Diocese of Paterson.Engineered and edited by Jai Agnish.Illustrations by Dennis Dalelio.Music by Jai Agnish.Follow the bishop on Instagram,  and follow the Diocese of Paterson on Instagram and Facebook (English) / Facebook (Spanish).The Paul Street Journal is all about Catholic Economics. From discussing the economic principles in scripture, to answering economic questions, this show will help you make economic decisions with the heart of the Church. Hosts: Freddy Garcia and Brian Honsberger. Available wherever you get podcasts, or watch on St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.  On Coffee with Kupke, we have a cup of coffee and sit down with diocesan archivist, Monsignor Raymond Kupke Ph.D., to delve into the history of Catholicism in the Diocese of Paterson, N.J. Hosted by Father Paul Manning and Msgr. Kupke. Listen to Coffee with Kupke wherever you get your podcasts, or watch it on the St. Paul Inside the Walls YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulinsidethewalls.