Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR, and Dcn. Bob Rice are friends who see humor and hope in a crazy world. Whether they are talking about sports, movies, politics, the Church, or their own lives, Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob try to find Christ in all things, even in the messiness of today’s culture. “They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31). Come be refreshed and renewed!
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Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR, and Dcn. Bob Rice are friends who see humor and hope in a crazy world. Whether they are talking about sports, movies, politics, the Church, or their own lives, Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob try to find Christ in all things, even in the messiness of today’s culture. “They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31). Come be refreshed and renewed!
(00:00) Kentucky Derby, Star Wars, and Finals Week
Fr. Dave and Deacon Bob kick off with sitcom nostalgia, university finals, and a wholesome Star Wars Day at PNC Park—complete with Sith Lords and pierogi races. Sports fans will also appreciate their thoughts on the NBA playoffs and a surprising stat from the Kentucky Derby.
(07:26) Honoring Catholic Leaders
Graduation at Franciscan University is coming up and will features honorary degrees for Bishop Andrew Cozzens and religious liberty advocates Seamus and Mary Hasson, co-founders of The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty. Fr. Dave and Deacon Bob discuss the Hassons’ work defending pro-life and parental rights cases, including a recent Supreme Court challenge.
(10:45) The Eucharist in Space
Fr. Dave recounts his conversation with astronaut and retired Air Force General Kevin P. Chilton, who received the Eucharist aboard a NASA mission. The hosts also share how Buzz Aldrin took communion on the moon, making for a remarkable intersection of faith and outer space. The full interview with Kevin P. Chilton is available on Faith and Reason.
(17:00) Conclave, Cardinals, and Controversy
The hosts react to the movie Conclave and to the viral, AI-generated image of Donald Trump dressed as pope, which was shared by official White House social media accounts during a period of mourning. They reflect on why reverence matters as the Church prepares for its next leader.
(21:05) How the Holy Spirit Works in a Conclave
Fr. Dave shares Pope Benedict XVI’s insights on how the Holy Spirit guides—but does not override—human freedom in papal elections. Also discussed: radio silence inside the Sistine Chapel, conclave security, and the theological reassurance that the Holy Spirit ensures the process won’t be “totally ruined.”
(27:16) Mass Memories and First Communion Dreams
In honor of Fr. Dave’s ordination anniversary, the hosts swap personal Mass memories, from awkward first communion prep to celebrating Eucharist with St. John Paul II. They also discuss the role of the Eucharist in their spiritual journeys and the inspiration behind the Jubilee Year of Hope.
They That Hope: A Catholic Podcast
Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR, and Dcn. Bob Rice are friends who see humor and hope in a crazy world. Whether they are talking about sports, movies, politics, the Church, or their own lives, Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob try to find Christ in all things, even in the messiness of today’s culture. “They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31). Come be refreshed and renewed!
