We might look like holy people, but we weren't born this way. In this deeply personal episode of the Trusting God Podcast, Father Bennett shares his powerful conversion story—a journey that took him from being an unbaptized 21-year-old college student to a Catholic priest.Discover the crucial role a Catholic school education played in planting a seed of faith, the teenage struggles of seeking answers in a secular world, and the pivotal moment before a crucifix at Midnight Mass that changed everything. Father Bennett walks us through his decision to finally call the church, his experience in RCIA, and the profound peace he found in the faith, especially in the wake of 9/11.This episode is a testament to the truth that conversion is not a one-time event, but a lifelong process of trusting God, being open to His formation, and actively participating in the life of the Church. It's an encouraging message for anyone who feels lost, is afraid to ask questions, or is a parent wondering how to pass on the faith.Timestamps:00:00:05 - Introduction: We Weren't Born This Way02:25:15 - A Priest's Backstory: Unbaptized Until Age 2105:49:09 - The Teenage Struggle & A Longing for Faith13:36:14 - The College Years: Seeing Faith in Action21:30:20 - The Turning Point: A Pivotal Midnight Mass Experience26:23:12 - God's Promise: Seek and You Will Find33:10:08 - Why Conversion is a Lifelong Process44:53:22 - The "Both/And" of Catholic Faith: Belief and Practice51:12:10 - Your Call to Action: Be Proactive in Your FaithFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!
Ever wonder what the Catholic Church actually teaches about the afterlife? In this episode of the Trusting God Podcast, we tackle one of life's biggest questions by exploring the Four Last Things: Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell.Join Father Bennett and Grant as they provide a clear and hopeful guide to what happens when we die. They demystify complex doctrines and separate Catholic teaching from common misconceptions like reincarnation or soul sleep. Discover the true meaning of death as the separation of body and soul, and the immediate reality of the Particular Judgment that every person faces.This episode also explores the role of the sacraments, especially the Anointing of the Sick, in preparing us to meet God with courage and faith. Learn about the unimaginable joy of Heaven as a perfect union with God and the tragic reality of Hell as an eternal, self-chosen separation from all that is good. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity and hope about our eternal destiny.Timestamps:00:00:06 - The Ultimate Question: What Happens After We Die?02:16:11 - The Catholic Definition of Death: Separation of Body & Soul06:03:22 - Can We Trust Near-Death Experiences (NDEs)?12:37:02 - Facing Judgment: What Every Soul Must Do19:03:04 - The Power of the Sacraments for the Dying (Anointing of the Sick)30:02:13 - The Objective Standard for Judgment: How Have You Loved?40:38:19 - What is Heaven REALLY Like? (Union with God)50:22:07 - What is Hell? (The Choice of Eternal Separation)55:01:00 - The Final Judgment and the Resurrection of the BodyFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!
Are you prepared for the end of life? This episode of the Trusting God Podcast offers a compassionate and comprehensive Catholic guide to preparing for death, both spiritually and practically.Join us as we explore the Catholic understanding of death, judgment, heaven, and hell, and discuss why our entire life is a preparation for eternity. We'll delve into the importance of the sacraments, especially Anointing of the Sick and Confession, not as a last resort, but as a source of grace and strength throughout our lives.Discover practical steps you can take now to ease the burden on your loved ones, from funeral planning to organizing your affairs. We address common questions about Catholic burial rites, cremation, and the importance of mourning and grieving. Learn how to approach these sensitive topics with faith and hope, ensuring your final wishes are known and respected.Whether you're planning for the distant future or facing a more immediate reality, this episode will provide you with the spiritual and practical tools to prepare for a peaceful death in God's grace.Timestamped Topics:00:00:04 - Introduction: Why We Should Prepare for Death01:28:13 - The Catholic Belief in the Resurrection and Afterlife05:40:23 - The Spiritual Side of Preparing for Death11:44:05 - Why You Shouldn't "Cram" for Your Final Judgment15:06:23 - The Importance of Sacraments in Sickness and Health25:26:06 - Practical Steps for End-of-Life Planning31:48:00 - The Importance of the Mourning Process37:30:06 - Planning Your Funeral and Communicating Your Wishes41:23:02 - Catholic Teaching on Cremation and Burial53:29:09 - How to Get Help with Your End-of-Life PlansFor more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973 🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=312994efcd894cff We’re excited to grow with you!
"Well, actually... Christmas is just a pagan holiday." We've all heard it. As the holiday season approaches, this claim can cause confusion and doubt for Christians. Are Halloween, Christmas, and Easter just repurposed pagan rituals? And if so, should we even be celebrating them?In this powerful episode of the Trust in God Podcast, Father Bennett and Grant tackle this question head-on. They explore the rich history of how the Church engaged with different cultures, not by destroying them, but by "baptizing" their traditions and redeeming them for Christ—just as God redeems each one of us.Tune in to discover:A priest's definitive answer to the "Well, actually..." guy who says all our holidays are pagan.The brilliant way the Church "baptizes" pagan customs, revealing the truth they were pointing toward all along.How St. Paul's encounter with the "Unknown God" in Athens gives us a blueprint for evangelization.The surprising Christian meaning behind Christmas trees and the miraculous, culture-transforming story of Our Lady of Guadalupe.The modern danger of secularism creeping back in and paganizing our Christian holidays from the inside out.How to reclaim the holiday season for Christ by celebrating Advent and the full 12 Days of Christmas.This episode will equip you with the confidence and knowledge to celebrate our Christian holidays with deeper meaning and to use them as a powerful opportunity for evangelism.🛑 Take the Challenge: This holiday season, take an evangelistic view. Find one opportunity—whether it's at Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas—to gently remind someone of the true, Christ-centered reason we celebrate. Be a light, not a critic.Get Involved👍 Like: Help us spread this message of hope by hitting the LIKE button!🔄 Share: Pass this episode along to a friend or family member who has questions about the origins of our holidays.🔔 Subscribe: Join the Trust in God Podcast community on YouTube and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our faith-filled conversations!For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999🟣 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trust-in-god-podcast/id1845406973🟢 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7f6OQsJ3gD8mNAZqMyMLaW?si=0f4944c2dfec45cbWe’re excited to grow with you!
Halloween is approaching, and with it comes a fascination with the occult, the demonic, and the supernatural. But are things like Ouija boards, horoscopes, and "lucky charms" just harmless fun, or are they opening dangerous doors to Satan and the occult?In this powerful episode of the Trust in God Podcast, Father Bennett and Grant confront the reality of spiritual warfare. They move beyond the Hollywood scares to discuss the subtle and real ways evil can enter our lives, and more importantly, the overwhelming victory we already have in Jesus Christ.Tune in to discover:Why the Church warns against occult practices (and the surprising danger of "harmless" superstitions).The "two-way door" of temptation: How we unknowingly invite darkness into our lives.The most powerful weapon you have against the devil (hint: it's not being an amateur exorcist).The most "demonic" thing Grant has ever seen (it's not what you think).Why Confession is the most powerful form of deliverance available to every Catholic.Don't fight this battle alone. Learn how to "flee to strength" and find true protection in the sacraments and the Word of God.🛑 Take the Challenge: Feel a little voice telling you not to go to Confession? That might be the very reason you need to go. Watch to find out why!👍 Like, Share, and Subscribe to help us spread the light of Christ and equip others for the spiritual battle.Get Involved👍 Like: Help us spread this message of hope by hitting the LIKE button!🔄 Share: Pass this episode along to a friend or family member who is thinking about how to best educate their children. 🔔 Subscribe: Join the Trusting God Podcast community on YouTube and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our faith-filled conversations!Connect with St. Michael the Archangel PastorateFor more resources and to deepen your faith journey, visit:🌐 Website: stmichaelpastorate.org📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): /staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): /sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: /stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: /@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow in faith with you! Tune in and let’s explore God’s plan together.
Public, private, homeschool… with so many choices, why should parents still consider Catholic schools? In this episode of the Trusting God Podcast, Father Bennett and principal Lacie Allison reveal why Catholic education is about more than academics—it’s about forming the whole child in truth, virtue, and faith.Register your student at St. Augustine Catholic School in Rensselaer, IN by clicking this link. https://s-augustine.org/newstudentapplication Discover:Why Catholic schools are essential to the Church’s mission.How faith transforms every subject, every day.A principal’s heartfelt story of choosing Catholic school for her own daughter.Why even non-Catholic families find unexpected value in Catholic education.🎧 Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or parishioner, this conversation shows why Catholic schools remain a powerful, life-shaping choice for today’s kids.🙏 Prayer ChallengeWhen you feel uncertain about school choice: Pray for the grace to see God’s plan for your child’s future and the wisdom to follow His lead.When you consider Catholic education: Ask God to show you how this choice could shape your child’s faith, virtue, and sense of purpose.For families discerning together: Pray for peace, unity, and the trust to place your children’s education fully in God’s hands.Get Involved👍 Like: Help us spread this message of hope by hitting the LIKE button!🔄 Share: Pass this episode along to a friend or family member who is thinking about how to best educate their children. 🔔 Subscribe: Join the Trusting God Podcast community on YouTube and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our faith-filled conversations!Connect with St. Michael the Archangel PastorateFor more resources and to deepen your faith journey, visit:🌐 Website: stmichaelpastorate.org📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): /staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): /sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: /stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: /@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow in faith with you! Tune in and let’s explore God’s plan together.
Welcome to the Trust in God Podcast: Episode 9This week, we tackle one of humanity's oldest and most challenging questions: "Why do bad things happen to good people?" Join Grant and Father Bennett as they delve into the profound theological and personal dimensions of suffering, evil, and God's eternal plan. This episode offers spiritual guidance and a broader perspective for anyone grappling with life's injustices and tragedies.What You’ll DiscoverIn this raw and honest discussion, hosts Grant and Father Bennett explore:The Problem of Evil: Examining traditional and deeper understandings beyond simple explanations like "sin."Interconnectedness of Humanity: How our choices and the fallen nature of creation impact everyone, blurring the lines of "good" and "bad."God's Perspective vs. Ours: Shifting from our limited human viewpoint to God's infinite plan and the true meaning of a "good life."The Purpose of Free Will: Why God allows us the choice to love Him, even if it leads to painful consequences in a fallen world.Concupiscence and Original Sin: Understanding our innate inclination towards evil and how it reordered creation.Detachment and Eternity: How suffering can help us detach from earthly concerns and long for the ultimate, boundless promise of heaven.God's Empathy and Faithfulness: Remembering that Jesus, though sinless, suffered, and how His experience empowers us to trust God through our darkest moments.This episode doesn't offer easy answers, but it provides a framework for understanding suffering within God's loving and eternal perspective, helping us to trust Him more deeply.🙏 Prayer ChallengeWhen you face hardship: Pray for the grace to see God's eternal perspective and unite your suffering to Christ's cross.When you witness suffering: Ask God for opportunities to alleviate pain and contribute to building His kingdom here on earth.For those enduring tragedy: Pray for peace, comfort, and the profound trust of the grieving father shared in this episode.Get Involved👍 Like: Help us spread this message of hope by hitting the LIKE button!🔄 Share: Pass this episode along to a friend or family member who is wrestling with the question of suffering.🔔 Subscribe: Join the Trusting God Podcast community on YouTube and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our faith-filled conversations!Connect with St. Michael the Archangel PastorateFor more resources and to deepen your faith journey, visit:🌐 Website: stmichaelpastorate.org📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): /staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): /sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: /stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: /@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow in faith with you! Tune in and let’s explore God’s plan together.
Welcome to the Trusting God Podcast: Episode 8Join us this week for a profound exploration of Catholic Marriage, one of life’s most sacred vocations. Whether you’re discerning, engaged, married, or navigating the challenges of a broken union, this episode delivers essential insights to guide you closer to God’s plan for love and relationships.What You’ll DiscoverIn this episode, hosts Grant and Father Bennett dive deep into:Marriage as a Vocation: Moving beyond the “soulmate” myth to embrace God’s unique call for your life and relationship.The "Three-Legged Stool" of Marriage: Why placing God at the center is essential for a resilient, thriving union.Marriage Prep Essentials: Why consulting your priest before proposing can prevent heartache, plus critical steps for building a strong foundation.Annulment vs. Divorce: Clearing up misconceptions about the Church’s compassionate process for evaluating marriage validity, and what it means for reconciliation and new beginnings.When Marriage Gets Hard: Practical advice and spiritual encouragement for spouses facing difficulties, with a focus on healing and reconciliation.Marriage in Heaven? A thought-provoking look at how earthly relationships prepare us for our ultimate fulfillment in God.This episode isn’t just about rules—it’s about grace, healing, and building a marriage that reflects God’s eternal love. Gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrament of marriage and practical wisdom to cultivate an unbreakable bond.🙏 Prayer ChallengeIf you’re married: Don’t just pray for your spouse—pray with them! Commit to daily prayer together and join us for Mass this Sunday.If you hope to marry: Pray for your future spouse, asking God to prepare both your hearts for this sacred vocation.If you’re discerning: Seek God’s guidance for marriage, religious life, priesthood, or holy singleness. He has a unique calling for you!Get Involved👍 Like: Help us spread this message by hitting the LIKE button!🔄 Share: Pass this episode along to a friend or family member who needs to hear this powerful reflection on marriage.🔔 Subscribe: Join the Trusting God Podcast community on YouTube and hit the bell icon to stay updated on our faith-filled conversations!Connect with St. Michael the Archangel PastorateFor more resources and to deepen your faith journey, visit:🌐 Website: stmichaelpastorate.org📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): /staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): /sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: /stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: /@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow in faith with you! Tune in and let’s explore God’s plan for love together.
In Episode 7 of the Trust in God Podcast, we wrestle with a question many parents face: Should I bring my kids to church? What if they’re noisy? What if they don’t understand? What if they don’t want to go? In this episode, we explore why bringing children into the life of the Church is not just valuable but essential—for them and for us.You’ll hear encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed, practical tips for helping kids engage at Mass, and a reminder that God delights in their presence, even in the chaos. Church isn’t only for adults—it’s for the whole family of God.Join us as we talk about why children belong in the pews, how their faith can grow even in small and simple ways, and how your example as a parent can plant seeds of lifelong discipleship.For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): /staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): /sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: /stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: /@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow with you!
In Episode 6 of the Trust in God Podcast, we dive into the heart of stewardship—what it really means to give of your time, talent, and treasure. How much is enough? And how do we grow in trusting God with every part of our lives?This episode will encourage you to take one more step of trust each day—whether that’s in how you serve, how you share your gifts, or how you give financially. Stewardship isn’t about checking a box or hitting a number; it’s about deepening your relationship with the Lord and learning to rely on Him in every area of your life.Join us as we explore practical ways to grow in generosity, discover the joy of sacrificial giving, and learn how to let God stretch your faith just a little bit more, day by day.For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): /staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): /sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: /stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: /@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow with you!
In Episode 5 of the Trust in God Podcast, we address a common and heartfelt concern: What should you do when your spouse or kid is reluctant to join you at church? This episode offers compassionate guidance and practical strategies for navigating this sensitive situation. We'll explore the "three P's" – Pre-empt, Preach, and Practice – to lovingly encourage the people you care about most to follow Jesus alongside you. Discover how to build a spiritual foundation within your marriage through understanding, patience, and persistent prayer, always rooted in God's unfailing love. Learn to share your faith not through coercion, but through genuine example, heartfelt conversations, and by creating an inviting atmosphere that draws the people you love most closer to Jesus. This episode is for anyone seeking to deepen their family's connection to faith and the church, all while strengthening the relationships that mean the most to us. For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): / staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): / sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: / stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: / @st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow with you!
In Episode 4 of the Trust in God Podcast, we tackle the vital question: How do we share our faith? Discover practical and Spirit-led ways to witness to others with love, courage, and authenticity. We’ll look at biblical examples of evangelization, how to overcome fear and hesitation, and why living your faith joyfully can be the most powerful testimony of all. Learn how to invite others into a relationship with Christ—not through pressure, but through genuine friendship, compassion, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This episode is perfect for anyone who wants to grow in confidence and purpose as a disciple of Jesus.For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): / staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): / sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: / stmichaelpastorate🎥 YouTube: / @st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow with you!
In Episode 3 of the Trust in God Podcast, we explore the profound question: What does it mean to rest in God? Dive into the biblical and spiritual understanding of rest, examining how it goes beyond physical relaxation to a deep trust in God’s provision and peace. Discover how Jesus invites us into His rest, how the Holy Spirit empowers us to find stillness in a hectic world, and why true rest transforms our hearts and lives. A must-listen for anyone seeking peace, balance, and a deeper connection with God in today’s fast-paced culture.For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow with you!
In Episode 2 of the Trust in God Podcast, we tackle the question: Should the Church be relevant? Explore why the message of the Gospel must never change—even as methods adapt to reach a changing world. Discover how Jesus was radically countercultural, how the Church is empowered by the Holy Spirit to stand as a solid rock, and why true transformation happens when culture is drawn into the unchanging truth of Christ. A must-listen for anyone wrestling with modern ministry, cultural trends, and timeless truth.Here's the Link mentioned above for Humanae Vitae chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-vi_enc_25071968_humanae-vitae.pdf For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow with you!
What does it even mean to trust in God? Father Bennett and Grant dig deep and share some practical and genuinely helpful ways to encourage you to Trust in God.For more information about St. Michael the Archangel Pastorate, visit:🌐 Website: https://stmichaelpastorate.org/📱 Facebook (St. Augustine, Rensselaer): https://www.facebook.com/staugustinerensselaer📱 Facebook (Sacred Heart, Remington): https://www.facebook.com/sacredheartremington📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stmichaelpastorate/🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@st.michaelthearchangelpast999We’re excited to grow with you!