Theology for the Unwanted

Who Gets to Receive? Communion, Mercy, and the Catholic Side-Eye

Hosts Dan and Jon return from summer breaks to discuss communion laws, parish side‑eye, and how culture shapes enforcement of church rules. They mix personal stories (honeymoon travel, drumsticks, a Navy baptism) with pastoral questions about addicts, divorced‑and‑remarried Catholics, and same‑sex attracted parishioners.
The episode argues the sacraments exist for people’s salvation, urges mercy over rigid policing, and highlights the Eucharist as both truth and communal unity — a call to welcome and accompany those who feel unwanted.

Determined to stay Catholic. Can theology overcome the culture of secrecy in parishes?

In this episode of The Theology for the Unwanted, join Dan and Jon as they welcome a remarkable guest, Justin from Empty Chairs, who shares his journey of growing up in a devout Catholic environment while exploring his personal identity. Justin candidly discusses his experiences of discerning a vocation, grappling with his sexual orientation, and the pivotal moment of coming out at 25.
The conversation explores the broader implications of creating a welcoming environment within the Catholic Church for those who often feel marginalized. The hosts and Justin reflect on the challenge of maintaining one's faith while embracing one's identity and how, in their hopes and dreams, the Church can become a more inclusive and understanding community.
With raw honesty and humor, they tackle the Church’s culture of secrecy, the pressures of fitting into preconceived roles, and the importance of authentic love and acceptance. Discover how they envision a future where Catholicism is not about rigid conformity but genuine connection with God and people. Listen in for an engaging discussion on building an empathetic church that listens before it speaks.

A Reverent and Traditional Mass. Can we do that without getting political?

Join us in this insightful episode as hosts Dan and Jon dive into an engaging conversation with Matthew, a special guest from the Sant'Egidio community in Washington, DC. Matthew shares his journey of reconversion to the Catholic faith, revealing how his struggle with materialism and a mental health crisis led him back to the church. Despite differences in political viewpoints, Matthew and Dan explore the profound connection they share through their faith.
The discussion takes a thoughtful turn as Matthew describes the contrasting experiences of attending traditional Latin Mass and the challenges faced by parishes in fostering a true sense of community. With candid reflections on how the Eucharist should not only symbolize the body of Christ but also unify the church, the episode delves into the cultural and theological shifts that have influenced modern Catholicism.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how faith, friendship, and prayer intertwine in the vibrant Sant'Egidio community, providing a beacon of hope and unity. As they share personal stories and encounters, the hosts and guest uncover the importance of living out the Gospel in everyday life while addressing the pressing issues of division and exclusion within the church. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of faith, community, and the transformative power of the Eucharist.

Church History Shows Just How Much We’ve Changed. Navigating Catholicism for Future Crises.

Welcome back to another contemplative episode of Theology for the Unwanted. Hosts and Jon explore the nuanced evolution within Catholicism, addressing its shifts from ancient catacombs to modern chapels. Dive into the juxtaposition of rich historical traditions and the necessary openness to new forms of spiritual expression.
Join the discussion on the balance between maintaining beautiful architectural heritage and the need for a faith that actively engages with the world's contemporary challenges. This episode deeply considers the role of human dignity and the unique contributions each individual brings to the church's understanding of God, inspired by the insights of Czech theologian Father Tomáš Halík.

What's it like to receive a Catholic blessing as a same-sex or legally remarried couple? Exploring beyond black/white definitions and diving into theology.

Join us on this episode of "Theology for the Unwanted" as we sit down with Dan and co-host Jon to explore the nuances of striving for an ethical and authentic life as a gay Catholic. Reflecting on personal stories, theological insights, and recent church developments like Fiducia Supplicans, we delve into the complexities of discernment, authenticity, and the evolving role of the Catholic Church. From heartfelt personal experiences to broader discussions on theological progress, this episode invites listeners to reimagine faith in a modern context. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on how time, love, and unity can help bridge divides and bring deeper meaning to our shared spiritual journeys.

The Courage of Leaving: what Catholic theologians can learn from those who left. Featuring Cade from 'Intrinsically Ordered'

Welcome back to another thought-provoking episode of Theology for the Unwanted podcast, hosted by Dan with co-host Jon. In this special episode, we are joined by Cade from the Intrinsically Ordered podcast, who shares his personal journey of leaving the traditional Catholic Church in pursuit of a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating identity, faith, and personal beliefs outside the confines of organized religion. Cade reflects on his experiences within the Catholic community and discusses the radical transformation that ensued after stepping away from traditional religious expectations.
Together with Dan and Jon, Cade delves into topics such as inclusivity within the Church, the evolution of Catholic teachings, and the search for a deeper understanding of holiness and morality. This episode is an invitation to embrace the complexity and beauty of individual journeys in faith and life.

Stranger in the Pews: What it really takes to belong from two Catholic converts

In this special episode of the podcast, host Dan is joined by co-host Jon and special guest Jeremy, known from TikTok as "ACatholicDad." Dive into a heartfelt discussion about the journey of converting to Catholicism. Jeremy shares his experiences of transitioning from Protestantism in the South to becoming an evangelical Catholic, using social media as a platform to express his faith.
Listen as they explore the nuanced dynamics between cradle Catholics and converts, and the importance of unity and understanding within the church. The episode also sheds light on the role of the Eucharist and offers insights into the welcoming of converts, emphasizing that everyone's journey is unique and valuable. Whether you're a cradle Catholic or a recent convert, this episode provides a compelling look into the personal stories and theological insights at the intersection of faith and community.

Reflections for Pride Month. Beyond the Secret: Catholic theologians on honesty and discovering how God made you

Join us on a thought-provoking journey exploring the intersection of faith and identity in the Catholic Church. This episode delves into theological insights about how God sees us and how we can understand and embrace the diverse ways God has created each of us.
Discover a new perspective on sexuality through a theological lens and learn about the Church's evolving understanding of love, identity, and human dignity. With personal stories and reflective discussions, we aim to foster a deeper relationship with God and each other, amidst societal and cultural challenges.
 
Recommended readings and listening:
Francis of Assisi - The Great Courses  on Audible. By Ronald Herzman and William Cook.
Catholicity and Emerging Personhood on Amazon by Fr. Daniel Horan
Roper, William. "The Life of Sir Thomas More." Internet Modern History Sourcebook, compiled by Paul Halsall, Fordham University, Aug. 1998
Alison, James. "Learning the Truth About Matters LGBTQ+ and Organic Christianity with James Alison." YouTube, uploaded by Immanuel Presbyterian Church Tacoma, 10 May 2022
"What Does the Scholarly Research Say About the Well-Being of Children with Gay or Lesbian Parents?" What We Know, Cornell University
Pontifical Biblical Commission. "What Is Man?" (Ps 8:5): An Itinerary of Biblical Anthropology. Vatican.va, Holy See, 30 Sept. 2019

Going to Confession? Yikes! And Pope Leo's pontificate taking shape.

Welcome to the second episode of the Theology for the Unwanted podcast with your host, Dan, and co-host Jon. In this episode, the hosts delve into the intricate world of confession, exploring its significance and how it is often perceived as a daunting experience by many. They share personal anecdotes and offer thoughtful insights on how to approach confession not as a mere judicial exercise, but as an opportunity for spiritual healing and growth.
Additionally, the podcast takes a look at the early days of Pope Leo's papacy, drawing parallels to the influential legacy of Pope John Paul II. The discussion also touches on the need for the Church to navigate the challenges presented by the digital age, particularly focusing on the alarming rise of loneliness as highlighted by recent surveys.
The hosts share their personal travel stories from Europe, light-heartedly recounting experiences that shed light on cultural nuances and their impact on personal faith journeys. Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends humor, theology, and contemporary issues.

Intro. Unveiling Truth in a Polarized World

Welcome to the Theology for the Unwanted Podcast, where hosts Dan and Jon explore the challenges faced by many Catholics trying to find their place within the church. In this debut episode, they delve into the complexities of bridging personal stories with universal theology, highlighting how understanding and embracing diverse journeys can make the church more inclusive and holy.
Join Dan and John as they recount their own journeys in faith, discuss the polarization seen within the Catholic community, and emphasize the significance of listening to each other's experiences. Through heartfelt conversations, they aim to create a supportive space for all listeners, recognizing the value of each individual's unique path in the collective quest for truth.
With a focus on the importance of unity and understanding amidst diversity, this episode encourages open dialogue and mutual respect, setting the tone for future discussions on a wide range of theological issues impacting Catholics worldwide. Tune in and be part of a conversation that seeks healing, acceptance, and a deeper connection to faith.