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Andrew Ewell discusses the mission of Verax Patria to address land access issues for families, the importance of community and faith in land stewardship, and the innovative solutions being developed to help families acquire and sustain farmland.

Putting Down Roots: Family, Faith, and Land with Andrew Ewell

Monsignor Shea, priest of the Diocese of Bismarck and president of the University of Mary, gave this talk at Catholic Rural Life's 100th Anniversary on the deep connections between rural life, faith, and the integrated understanding of the whole person.

Monsignor Shea

Dr. James Nolan, proefssor of sociology at Williams College and author of&nbsp;Atomic Doctors, spoke at CRL's 100th Anniversary about the nature of agriculture in American history, in particular the tension between family and commercial agriculture, through the eyes of several visitors to America, including Alexis de Tocqueville, Max Weber, and G. K. Chesterton.

Dr. James Nolan

Welcome Meatsmiths! You're listening to A Meatsmith Harvest; restoring husbandry to prosperity by means of the traditions of our fathers. These episodes span topics from setting up a butchery business to homesteading, from harvesting your livestock to philosophy and faith.

A Meatsmith Harvest

Welcome to the Catholic Passage Podcast, where we highlight the good work happening in our schools, families, and parish communities while glorifying God and creating an avenue for reach, faith sharing, and support. Join us as we share valuable insights from casual conversations and interviews across various people and topics. We look to raise up the lay faithful and their "Witnesses in Plain Sight".
Catholic Passage is a group of lay Catholics who support parents and educators as they pass on the Catholic faith and way of life to their children and students.

The Catholic Passage Podcast

Check out the latest episodes of the&nbsp;Catholic Cowboy Way podcast!

The Catholic Cowboy Way

Talks and lectures given at Catholic Rural Life events or by CRL collaborators and partners.

Talks and Lectures

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How Technology Distances Us From Creation - Ep 124

Creation, Evolution, and the Chain of Being - Ep 123

Mastering the Mother Cure - Ep. 131

Reviving the Peasant Kitchen - Ep. 133

In this episode, we explore the intersection of social media, church law, and priestly conduct, featuring insights from Fr. Timothy Smith of the Diocese of Sioux Falls on how the church navigates digital communication, canonical law, and ethical responsibilities.

How to Be a Responsible Catholic on the Internet with Fr. Timothy Smith

Laura K. Beck shares her journey from a busy journalist and mom to a dedicated Catholic writer and content creator. You'll discover how her reflections, poetry, and biblical insights have transformed her understanding of discipleship and evangelization. We break down her approach to social media, podcasting, and writing, revealing practical ways you can turn everyday encounters into powerful moments of faith-sharing. Whether it's journaling dreams, reaching strangers in simple conversations, or creating content that ignites curiosity, Laura illustrates how authenticity and obedience open the door for God to work through you.

Exploring Faith and Creativity with Laura K. Beck

What if your faith could be both deeply personal and intellectually compelling? Dr. Andrew Seely, president of the Boethius Institute and veteran Catholic educator, reveals how understanding and practicing hope grounded in reason can transform your life—and your ability to witness to others.
In this episode, Dr. Seely shatters common misconceptions about hope—distinguishing theological hope from mere optimism—and shares how hope rooted in God's promises and the Eucharist can sustain us through life's darkest moments. You'll discover why many believers feel unprepared to defend their faith and how the Catholic intellectual tradition provides the solid foundation needed to do so with confidence.
We break down:
The vital difference between optimism and hope, and why it matters
How the great books and the Catholic intellectual tradition shape a resilient, truthful worldview
The importance of discerning objective truth in a skeptical age
Practical ways rural Catholics can tap into this rich tradition, even in areas facing priest shortages
The significance of witness, reason, and the beauty of the liturgy in inspiring hope
If you've ever wondered how to share your faith with clarity and charity, or how to strengthen your interior hope amid cultural challenges, this episode is essential listening. Dr. Seely’s insights are a call to action: hope isn’t just a feeling, it’s a visible, explainable evidence of a life rooted in Christ. Whether you're clergy, educator, or lay faithful, learn how to make hope real—visible in your community and defendable in conversation.
Join us as we explore how the Catholic Church’s rich intellectual tradition can equip you to live and articulate hope with confidence, transforming your faith from private belief into bold witness. Softly soft—this isn’t just theory; it’s a roadmap for revival in the Church, starting in your own home, parish, and town.

Hope and Liberal Education with Dr. Andrew Seeley

In this episode of Catholic Passage, host John Sandy engages with John Grosso, digital editor at the National Catholic Reporter, to explore the intersection of faith and journalism. They discuss the challenges of reporting on the church as a Catholic, the role of social media in shaping public discourse, and the importance of transparency in journalism. John shares his personal journey of faith, the impact of Catholic social teaching on storytelling, and the need for digital engagement in parish ministry. The conversation emphasizes the moral obligations of journalists and the significance of truth in serving the church.

Faith Meets Journalism with John Grosso

As Catholics try to navigate a more polarized and fractured American society, CRL wanted to highlight some of the beautiful stories of rural communities coming together to support one another and increase unity. First and foremost, there&rsquo;s a recap of CRL&rsquo;s Anniversary Gala, a celebration of the community CRL has built. You&rsquo;ll also read about the Eucharistic Revival Pilgrimage that has stretched across the country, uniting young and old, rich and poor, urban and rural, all in the name of Jesus Christ. Then there&rsquo;s a tear-jerking story of a community coming together to support a farmer friend during a heart transplant. And lastly, lest we forget about the community of saints in heaven, we bring you a story of a big-hearted North Dakota prairie girl whose cause for sainthood is being investigated by the Church. May this issue remind you of all the beautiful people in your community, inspiring you to see anew Christ in your neighbor.

Building Community: Seeing Christ in One Another (Summer 2024)

The Catholic Roots of Classical Education - Ep 130

On this episode of the Catholic Passage Podcast, John Sandy sits down with Tom Farley, brother of the late and beloved comedian Chris Farley, to discuss faith, family, comedy, addiction, and recovery. Explore the life of Chris Farley through the lens of faith, addiction, and recovery with his brother Tom Farley. Discover insights into his interior life, faith journey, and the impact of family and spirituality.

Chris Farley's Hidden Faith with Tom Farley

Most ranchers talk about cattle or horses, but few highlight the quiet, ancient art of sheep herding—and the profound way it draws us closer to God. Marie McLaren, a fifth-generation sheep rancher and devout Catholic from Wyoming, shares how shepherding isn't just a livelihood—it's a spiritual journey rooted in deep faith and a love for creation. When storms threaten her internet connection or a call for help pulls her away from her plans, she embodies the shepherd’s relentless love—recalling the biblical parable of leaving the ninety-nine for the one.

Shepherding Faith (Marie McClaren) Ep 4

In this episode, we explore the origins and mission of Catholic Rural Life, the new storytelling initiatives like the Mustard Seed Project, and how these efforts aim to highlight the diverse and rich lives of rural Catholics. Join us for insights into rural evangelization, storytelling, and the future of faith in rural America.

Storytelling and Evangelization (Zach Wiese) Ep 10

In this conversation, Mathew and Greg Cello discuss the journey of establishing a homestead, the importance of family and community, and the role of faith in their lives. Greg shares his experiences transitioning from military life to homesteading, emphasizing the significance of rooting oneself in a community and the lessons learned from working the land. They explore the challenges and joys of parenting in a homesteading environment, the value of writing and sharing insights, and the aspirations for the future, including plans for sheep and wool production. The conversation highlights the connection between land stewardship, family legacy, and spiritual growth.

Homesteading and Focusing on Eternity with Greg Cello

Aristotelian Sausage: The Formal Cause - Ep. 137

In this issue of Catholic Rural Life magazine, CRL highlights personal stories and movements around the country seeking to heal the brokenness in our relationship with nature and with food. CRL is also re-introducing its Eating is a Moral Act initiative to raise awareness about what each of us can do to address our brokenness.

Eating is a Moral Act: Restoring Right Relationships with Food & Land (Spring 2017)

This conversation explores the history, mission, and current developments of the Catholic Land Movement, emphasizing its spiritual and practical significance for modern Catholics interested in land stewardship, community building, and faith-based agriculture.

How the Catholic Land Movement Connects Faith, Land, and Community with Michael Thomas

I woke up the day after Easter to a text from a member of my book club with the news that Pope Francis was dead. I was surprised&mdash;while it was clear that he was struggling with illness, hadn&rsquo;t he just traveled through St. Peter&rsquo;s Square and given the Easter&nbsp;Urbi et Orbi&nbsp;blessing the day before? The following days leading up to the funeral were a blessed time for my family, from praying for the repose of Pope Francis&rsquo;s soul to discussing with my children about what happens when a pope dies to praying for the next Holy Father&rsquo;s heart to be prepared for the monumental task of leading the Church. The day of the funeral my 13-year-old son joined me to watch the funeral procession on TV. As the pope&rsquo;s casket wound its way through the streets of Rome, the EWTN commentator told personal stories from Francis&rsquo;s life. At one point my son said, &ldquo;He seems like a pretty cool guy. I didn&rsquo;t know much about him, except that he was the pope.&rdquo;
This issue of Catholic Rural Life takes a look at some of the &ldquo;pretty cool&rdquo; writings and actions of Pope Francis. From a reflection on&nbsp;Evangelii Gaudium&nbsp;to a meeting with farmers to a group of teen pilgrims who attended the papal funeral, the stories in this issue focus on the gift of the Francis pontificate. This issue also features a number of articles marking the 10th anniversary of his landmark encyclical,&nbsp;Laudato Si&rsquo;. While the entire Church now rejoices with the election of Pope Leo XIV, may we not forget Pope Francis&rsquo;s mark on the Church, especially in rural America.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord. May he rest in peace.

Pope Francis: Remembering the Gift of His Papacy (Summer 2025)

In this issue, CRL takes a look at the Farm Bill through a Catholic lens. Why should Catholics care about this piece of legislation? How should Catholics view the various programs in the bill? I encourage you to ponder these questions as you read. We have included much to think about! There is an article on the basics of the Farm Bill and another on how the Farm Bill helps the international community. Of course, there is also an article on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, toward which goes the largest portion of Farm Bill money.

Food Security and the Farm Bill (Winter 2023)

In this episode, we explore the intersection of faith, spirituality, and everyday life through personal stories and practical insights. Our guest shares how his faith informs his decisions, especially in challenging moments like insomnia and temptation, offering valuable lessons on abiding in God and spiritual resilience. In this episode, Fr. Bryce and Jake share deeply personal stories and insights on spiritual warfare, overcoming addiction, and the importance of brotherhood in faith. They explore practical steps for battling pornography, the power of confession, and the role of mercy and grace in recovery. #catholic #faith #recoveryjourney #faithoverfear #virtue

Abide in God: Faith, Temptation, and Manly Virtue (Jake Hostetler) - Ep. 14

Explore the seasonal cycles of homesteading and how they teach humility, temperance, and planning. Learn about growing, storing, and preparing food in harmony with land and climate, emphasizing self-sufficiency and spiritual lessons.

Humility and Temperance Through Seasonal Living - Ep 2

On this episode of the Catholic Cowboy Way, Fr. Bryce sits down with Fr. Leo Patalinghug, a priest, chef, and member of the secular institute Voluntas Dei. Discover how his unique ministry combines theology, food, and evangelization to inspire faith and community.

Nourishing Faith: Grace, Discernment, and Authenticity (Fr.  Leo Patalinghug) Ep 8

After a bit of an absence for harvest season we are back with another episode where we get real about both the joys and rewards of homesteading as well as its challenges. We have learned a lot about this over the last year and can't wait to share with you all.

Welcome Back! The Realities of Homesteading: Challenges and Rewards

Sowing seeds for over 90 years, this magazine issues explores CRL&rsquo;s history, future vision, current campaign, and the importance of sowing these seeds now for the future of rural America.

Sowing Seeds: Renewing Catholic Faith in Rural America (Fall 2016)

Fall is my favorite time of year. I love the cooler weather, the beautiful colors of the leaves, hot and steamy soup for dinner, and of course, football. Recently, my family was able to savor all of these things on a week&rsquo;s getaway to the Black Hills of South Dakota. We were fully immersed in rural life, having to drive 11 miles of winding gravel roads just to get to our cabin, periodically stopping so that free-range cattle could cross the road. My children loved the beautiful landscape and the deer in our front yard every morning.
In this issue, we see many families choosing to move to the country precisely for the life they want to give their children. They view their move back to the land as a step forward toward a more wholesome and grounded life, one that is in-tune with their creator. We see a couple marvel at how all 10 of their children chose an agricultural life, something very unheard of today! We also see how God is more powerful than a family land dispute, bringing healing and peace to a family. There&rsquo;s the beautiful story of a woman and her horse, and how the horse turned her into a morning person. And finally, for anyone who is thinking about farming, we have included a 10-step guide to making the leap.

Forward to the Land: Rural Life Movement Among the Young (Fall 2021)

Matthew is joined by author and homesteader, Jason Craig to discuss the challenges and joys of homesteading in today's consumerist, suburbanized culture, by reconnecting to our natural roots in family, community, and the land itself. This conversation explores the deep reasons behind the modern interest in small farming and homesteading, emphasizing natural human inclinations, cultural roots, and practical steps for starting a land-based lifestyle.

Homesteading and Building a Village with Jason Craig

Lord of the Flies: Predation versus Artful Harvest - Ep 126

In this issue we explore all the ways rural life is thriving. In particular, you will read about programs CRL has developed or co-sponsored that aim to educate and inspire both laypeople and clergy alike. You will also read about a family who made a leap of faith and moved across the country in search of land and water to live out their farm dream. Even as we now head into winter, there are so many new, unique and holy signs of life for rural communities!
&ldquo;See, I am doing something new! Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?&rdquo; (Isaiah 43:19).&nbsp;

Thriving in Rural Life Helping Ministry Flourish (Fall 2022)

In this issue, we are interested in expanding upon the meaning of the Farm Bill&ndash;not only in terms of policy, but in terms of what it really means for those living rural lives. How does it touch us? How does it affect us?

A Farm Bill for the Future: How the Farm Bill Touches Our Lives (Spring 2018)

In this issue of the CRL magazine, we tackle the question: why does rural matter? We highlight the struggles, inspirations, purpose and meaning behind living the rural life.

Why Rural Matters: Celebrating the Importance of Rural America (Winter 2017)

In this issue we explore various Catholic businesses in rural America and discover how vital they are to their surrounding areas. There is a watermelon shipper in California whose reliance on the Holy Spirit is inspiring, and a family-owned concrete company in Minnesota that has a deep respect and admiration for its customers. You will also read about a farmer from Virginia who is striving to farm in accord with God&rsquo;s plan for nature, not against it. There is also a fascinating story about a woman who is a horse bodyworker. As always, we hope you enjoy this issue and that it serves as a reminder to patronize local businesses whenever possible. They are a necessary part of thriving rural communities.

Rural Entrepreneurs: Businesses Supporting Rural Faith Communities (Spring 2022)

As we continue our celebration of CRL&rsquo;s 100th Anniversary, this issue of Catholic Rural Life takes a look at what people and institutions are doing to educate a new generation of farmers, ranchers, homesteaders, and lovers of agriculture. We take a look at the role that high schools and colleges have in instilling a love of agriculture, as well as how one college is teaching prisoners to garden. Another fascinating read is about a man who hosts slaughter and butchery workshops on his farm. Lastly, we&rsquo;re excited to bring you an extended Pastor&rsquo;s Corner about how a bishop&rsquo;s college experience&nbsp;inspired his love of agriculture and current bee-keeping hobby. I hope that after reading these stories you&rsquo;ll not only be motivated to learn something new, but that you&rsquo;ll also have confidence that the future is full of hope.

The Task of Teaching: Instilling a Love of Agriculture (Spring 2024)

Fr. Bryce Lungren and Conrad Targonski explore the profound journey of faith, service, and healing through the lens of military chaplaincy and Franciscan spirituality. Conrad shares his upbringing in a Polish American family, his path to priesthood, and the unique challenges and experiences he faced as a military chaplain, particularly during his time in Iraq. The discussion delves into the importance of holistic spirituality, the connection to rural life, and the role of veterans in promoting peace and compassion. Throughout the conversation, the influence of St. Francis is highlighted, emphasizing the call to serve those who are marginalized and the healing power of beauty and community.

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Become a Catholic Rural Life Member today: https://catholicrurallife.org/get-involved/join/

A Journey Through Faith, Rural Life, and Military Chaplaincy (Fr. Conrad Targonski OFM) Ep 3

There are many ways to define &ldquo;farm-to-table.&rdquo; In this issue, we look at how rural people define this expression: it is their way of life, their work and their faith.

Our Farms to Our Tables: Rural People Define “Farm-to-Table” (Spring 2019)

In this issue, we focus on the gift of pilgrimage to our faith. We explore the reasons for making a pilgrimage, as well as its historical significance. Page after page you will hopefully discover rural shrines you&rsquo;ve never heard of, as well as marvel at the immense number of relics the Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics contains. Perhaps you will even be inspired to plan a pilgrimage of your own! Regardless, we hope and pray this issue will encourage you to take time to slow down, make time for prayer, and recognize the great beauty that our Catholic churches and shrines in rural America have to offer.&nbsp;

Rural Spirituality: A Pilgrimage of Faith (Winter 2022)

This interview with Father Paul Scalia explores the faith, family life, and legacy of Justice Antonin Scalia. Discover how faith shaped his personal and professional life, and gain insights into raising a Catholic family amidst cultural changes.

Antonin Scalia's Faith and Family Life with Fr. Paul Scalia

In this episode, seminarian and rodeo cowboy, Carson Kitaif, shares his journey from a rodeo family background to seminary, exploring the intersection of faith and cowboy life. We discuss the challenges and blessings of staying Catholic in the cowboy world, and how faith shapes his identity and vocation. #catholic #discernment #rodeo #cowboy #faith

Family, Faith, and Rodeo (Carson Kitaif) - Ep. 13

In this episode, Philip Henderson shares his journey from rural roots and electrical work to walking the Camino and pursuing the priesthood. We explore the intersection of faith, vocation, and the transformative power of life's opportunities. Philip Henderson and Fr. Bryce Lungren explore the transformative power of openness, trust in God, and the lessons learned from their experiences, including the Camino de Santiago and seminary journey. They discuss how embracing opportunities, letting go of attachments, and cultivating relationships can deepen faith and personal growth.

Walking the Camino: "Trust in God and Lose Yourself to Him" (Philip Henderson) Ep. 18

In this issue, we tackle the question: what is life really like in a rural parish? We gathered stories from all over the country that exemplify the beauty of how communities come together to answer the many challenges faced in rural life.

Life in the Rural Parish: Community, Leadership, Formation and Faith (Summer 2017)

In this issue of&nbsp;CRL Magazine, we look deeply into the problem of &ldquo;preservation.&rdquo; In rural communities preservation is an especially important issue and has many facets: family, tradition, religion and resources. Through personal experiences from across the country, we show how the rural population of Native Americans is working hard to preserve their culture, spirituality, sacred foods, agricultural techniques, land and water.

The Sacredness of Water: Preservation, Tradition, Culture and Hope (Fall 2017)

Catholic Rural Life has sought to strengthen the bonds between urban and rural communities since our founding more than 90 years ago. In this issue, we celebrate the urban-rural connections through various stories of those who remain &ldquo;rural at heart&rdquo; even after one or two generations removed from their rural roots. We also take a look at those who share an affinity for the agrarian lifestyle because of their concern for healthy foods and a healthy planet. Still, we remain concerned that urbanization and industrialization can disrupt our rural foundations. Through our programs and mission, CRL works for greater solidarity between urban and rural life.

Rural at Heart: Celebrating the City-Country Connection (Winter 2016)

In this episode, Dr. Anthony Isacco discusses the intersection of faith and psychology, the importance of spiritual fatherhood, and the role of healthy masculinity in today's culture. He shares insights from his work with clergy, his academic initiatives, and personal reflections on fatherhood and mental health.

The Whole Person: Psychology, Faith, and the Vocation to Flourish with Dr. Anthony Isacco

In these uncertain times of pandemic and social distancing we face isolation and physical, emotional and economic strife. What is the remedy for such ills? Christ present in us and in our communities.
In this issue, we hear stories of hope from all over the country, as well as meditations and tips for how to live deeply and intensely in this time of isolation. We also discover ways in which Catholic Rural Life Chapters help to unite and strengthen rural communities&mdash;and hear from chapter leaders around the country.

Hope in the Resurrection: Stories of Faith, Community, and Mercy (Spring 2020)

We at Catholic Rural Life believe that living, working and farming in rural America is a particular vocation: a special calling from God.
In this issue, we explore different kinds of rural vocations, from the priesthood to motherhood. Each story demonstrates the unique and beautiful call to live rural life.

The Road to Rural: Following the Call to Rural Vocations (Winter 2020)

I still remember the day my brother had a severe allergic reaction. My mom had discovered his hives following a dinner of fish&nbsp;(we lived on a lake in Minnesota), and after a quick call to the doctor's office and a round of Benadryl, I was told to jump into the car&nbsp;beside my 2-year-old brother and we sped off to the nearest large&nbsp;hospital &mdash; a good 50 minutes away. Our rural town had no medical practice and no ambulance services. Along the way, my mom&nbsp;would periodically ask me if my brother was still breathing. At one&nbsp;point she even pulled over to check on him. It was not a pleasant&nbsp;experience for my 6-year-old self.
I am sure my own experience is played out over and over again&nbsp;in rural areas: a midnight fever, a farm accident, an elderly person who falls. Health care services seem to get farther and farther&nbsp;away, which is unhelpful in situations where time is of the essence.&nbsp;Routine checkups that can catch ailments early are also getting&nbsp;skipped &mdash; rural patients finding the distance too hard or too expensive to traverse. In this issue, CRL takes a look at various issues&nbsp;facing rural health care today. We dive deep into the stress farmers&nbsp;face and the toll it takes on their mental health. We also look at&nbsp;some unique ways dioceses are bringing doctors to their flocks.
May Christ, the Divine Physician, minister to all of your discomforts, be it in mind, body or soul.

Rural Health Care: The Healing Ministry of Christ (Summer 2023)

In this issue you will find a variety of stories showcasing how Christ reveals himself in the fabric of everyday rural life. This can come about through the following of the liturgical calendar, the turning of the seasons, or entering into the sacramental life of the Church. This edition includes stories of vocations nurtured on the land and a moving reflection on the life of a martyred religious sister. Hopefully you will be inspired by the story of a young couple who planted a Mary Garden and will decide to plant your own this spring (or perhaps you will realize you already have one)! Lastly, do not forget to reserve your spot today for CRL&rsquo;s 100th Anniversary Celebration on May 8. It is sure to be a wonderful time!