JP2 Morning Crew

Defending Faith and Life: Paul Jonna's Legal Battles for Religious Liberty and Pro-Life Causes

Opening Segment:
Fourth week of Lent reflections.
Importance of incorporating Scripture into daily life.
Gospel reading from John Chapter 7, followed by a reflection on knowing Christ and living out the Christian mission.
Guest Segment: Paul Jonna
Introduction of Paul Jonna, a committed Catholic lawyer and member of the Saint Thomas More Society.
Paul shares his journey from working on complex litigation cases to focusing on religious liberty and cultural issues.
Discussion on the Chaldean Catholic Church, its history, and liturgical differences from the Roman Catholic Church.
Highlight of Paul's legal work:
Case against Escondido Union School District: Teachers challenged a policy requiring them to use preferred pronouns and names for students identifying as a different gender, without notifying parents. A federal court granted a preliminary injunction, citing First Amendment rights and parental rights under the 14th Amendment.
Case defending Heartbeat International: Fighting against California's attempt to block women from accessing abortion pill reversal, a medical procedure that can potentially reverse the effects of a chemical abortion.
Closing Segment:
Reminder to listeners to reflect on daily gospel readings.
Preview of the next episode featuring Dr. George Delgado, creator of the abortion pill reversal protocol.

A Conversation with Thomas McKenna on the Eucharist and Evangelization

Hosts: Brandon Clark and Steve Splonskowski
 
Guest: Thomas McKenna, Founder and President of Catholic Action for Faith and Family, and the Saint Gianna Physicians Guild
 
Segment 1: Opening and Introduction
Welcome and introduction by Brandon Clark
Greeting and Lenten reflection by Steve Splonskowski
Discussion on the significance of Lent and the day's Gospel reading (Mark 12:28-30)
 
Segment 2: Interview with Thomas McKenna
Introduction of Thomas McKenna and his work with Cardinal Raymond Burke
Discussion on the message of Fatima and its relevance today
The importance of the First Saturdays devotion, praying the Rosary, and wearing the scapular
The need for Eucharistic Revival and reverence in the modern church
 
Segment 3: Respecting the Body and Blood of the Lord
Thomas McKenna's collaboration with Cardinal Burke on the book "Respecting the Body and Blood of the Lord: When Holy Communion Should Be Denied"
The issue of public sinners, particularly pro-abortion politicians, receiving Holy Communion
The steps the church takes before denying communion to a public sinner
The importance of personal examination and reverence for the Eucharist

Journeying Through Lent and Serving with Love: Joe and Connie Micatrotto's Faithful Mission in the Holy Land

Date: March 1
Hosts: Brandon Clark and Steve Splonskowski
Guests: Joe and Connie Micatrotto, Area Co-counselors in Las Vegas for the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem
Main Topics:
Lenten journey reflections and challenges
The importance of intimacy and vulnerability in marriage
Overview of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem
Joe and Connie's journey with the order and their work in the Holy Land
The Fiat program: Faith in Action Today, involving volunteer work in orphanages and charitable services in the Holy Land
Key Takeaways:
Embracing the challenges of Lent can lead to growth in faith and personal sanctification.
A strong marriage is built on partnership, intimacy, and vulnerability.
The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem is dedicated to supporting the Christian presence in the Holy Land.
Volunteering through the Fiat program offers a hands-on way to make a difference and experience the joy of serving others.

Mental Health Ministry with John Prust

Hosts: Brandon Clark and Steve Splonskowski
Guest: John Prust, Director of the Office for Family Life and Spirituality at the Diocese of San Diego
Key Topics Discussed:
Saint Polycarp: Reflection on the memorial of Saint Polycarp, his martyrdom, and the gospel reading for his memorial.
Mental Health Ministry: Introduction to the topic of mental health ministry and its importance in the Diocese of San Diego.
Accompaniment: The role of accompaniment in mental health ministry and the importance of walking with individuals and families struggling with mental health issues.
Stigma and Education: Addressing the stigma associated with mental health and the need for education and awareness in the community.
Referrals: The importance of knowing where to refer individuals for professional help and building relationships with local resources.
Family Impact: The impact of mental health on families and the connection between family life ministry and mental health ministry.
COVID-19: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and the increased awareness of mental health needs.
Resources: Availability of resources for those struggling with mental health issues, including a network of Catholic therapists and community resources.
Closing Thoughts: The episode emphasizes the importance of mental health ministry in the church and the need for a supportive community that offers accompaniment, reduces stigma, and provides resources for those in need.

Pro-Life Advocacy and Men's Role in the Movement: A Conversation with John Hinterlong

Discussion on the season of Lent, its significance, and personal reflections by the hosts.
Introduction of guest John Hinterlong and his contributions to the pro-life movement.
John Hinterland's journey from working in the motion picture industry to becoming an active pro-life advocate.
The impact of the Dobbs decision on the pro-life movement and the new challenges it presents.
The importance of constitutional personhood for the unborn child from the moment of conception.
The role of men in the pro-life movement and the upcoming Men's Pro-Life March in Temecula, CA on March 2nd.
The need for men to take responsibility and be active in defending the most innocent and defenseless.

Embracing Faith and Community: A Lenten Journey with Father Edward Horning on JP2 Radio

Hosts: Brandon Clark and Steve Splonskowski
Guest: Father Edward Horning, a priest from the Diocese of San Diego and one of the founding members of JP2 Radio.
Main Topics Discussed:• Lent Preparation: The hosts and Father Horning discuss the significance of Lent, focusing on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. They explore personal approaches to the season, including the anticipation of Lenten sacrifices and the spiritual growth that comes from embracing Lenten disciplines.• The Cycle of the Church Year: Father Horning provides an overview of the liturgical year, emphasizing the importance of commemorating the life of Christ through various seasons, such as Advent, Christmas, Ordinary Time, and Lent, leading to Easter.• Ordinary Time and Spiritual Growth: Discussion on the value of Ordinary Time for spiritual growth, highlighting how it focuses on the public ministry of Jesus and how believers can find holiness in their everyday lives.• The Joy of Priesthood: Father Horning shares his journey to priesthood, reflecting on the joys and challenges of serving the community, the impact of Catholic radio, and the importance of vocations in the church.• Catholic Radio's Role: The significance of Catholic radio for evangelization and fostering vocations is discussed, with Father Horning sharing his experience as a founding member of JP2 Radio and its impact on the faithful.Conclusion: The episode wraps up with Father Horning offering blessings for a fruitful Lent and encouraging listeners to deepen their relationship with God during this sacred season. The importance of Catholic radio in spreading the gospel and supporting the church's mission is reiterated.

Faith, Volleyball, and Olympic Dreams: Meg Kraft's Inspiring Journey - JP2 Morning Crew Podcast

1.      Introduction: Hosts Brandon Clark and Raul Caro introduce the show, highlighting the significance of February 2nd as the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord and Candlemas Day.
2.      Guest Introduction: Meg Kraft, a renowned beach volleyball player and committed Catholic, is introduced. Her accomplishments include being a three-time NCAA national champion and a three-time All-American at the University of Southern California.
3.      Meg's Catholic Roots: Meg shares her upbringing in a Catholic family in San Diego, emphasizing the growth of her faith during her college years.
4.      Volleyball Journey: Discussion about Meg's transition from indoor to beach volleyball, her love for the mental and strategic aspects of the game, and her passion for the sport.
5.      Faith and Athletics: Meg talks about balancing her busy schedule with her faith life, finding strength in daily Mass and adoration.
6.      Dealing with Success and Challenges: Meg reflects on staying grounded in her faith amidst her athletic achievements and dealing with challenges.
7.      Future Plans and Faith Integration: Meg shares her plans to pursue professional beach volleyball post-graduation while balancing a part-time accounting career, emphasizing how her faith influences her journey.
8.      Olympic Aspirations: Meg expresses her dream of competing in the Olympics, highlighting her experiences in international competitions.
9.      Athlete's Prayer and Faith Influence: Meg discusses the importance of a specific athlete's prayer in her life and how her faith impacts her performance and attitude on the court.
10.  Closing Thoughts: The show concludes with Meg's message on the importance of consistent prayer and gratitude in using God-given talents.

Journey of Faith: Moira Noonan's Conversion Story

Introduction: Brandon Clark introduces the show, highlighting the memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus.
Guest Introduction: Moira Noonan, a Southern Californian with an incredible conversion story, including an experience with exorcism, is introduced.
Cultural Catholic Background: Moira shares her upbringing as a 'cultural Catholic' and the lack of deep religious roots.
Dive into New Age Practices: Moira discusses her college years where she began exploring New Age practices due to a lack of religious grounding.
Turning Point in Hawaii: A pivotal moment during a training program in Hawaii where Moira began questioning her beliefs and felt a call to return to Catholicism.
Re-discovery of Catholic Faith: The journey back to Catholicism, influenced by her renewed understanding of the Virgin Mary and Catholic teachings.
Exorcism Experience: Moira talks about her experience with exorcism, clarifying misconceptions and its role in her return to faith.
Current Ministry and Publications: Details of Moira's current international ministry, exposing New Age dangers, and her books "Ransomed from Darkness" and "Spiritual Deceptions".
Call to Action: Encouragement for listeners to explore Moira's story and reflect on faith, conversion, and the risks of straying from traditional beliefs.

Compassion in Action: Deacon Jim Vargas on Faith and Homelessness in San Diego - JP2 Morning Crew

JP2 Morning Crew with Deacon Jim Vargas: Nurturing Faith & Addressing Homelessness in San Diego
 
In our latest episode, we're blessed to have Deacon Jim Vargas join us to discuss the Catholic faith's response to homelessness in San Diego. Dive into an enlightening conversation about living out our Catholic values through service and compassion.
 
Highlights:
 
The Call to Serve: Deacon Vargas shares his personal journey of faith and service, echoing the Catholic call to help the vulnerable.
Addressing Homelessness in San Diego: Insightful discussion on the current state of homelessness in San Diego and how Catholic organizations like Father Joe's Villages are making a difference.
Faith in Action: Learn how Catholic teachings inspire and guide efforts to support those in need, offering not just shelter but also spiritual nourishment.
Catholic Retreat for the Soul: This episode is more than just a talk; it's a retreat for your soul, reminding us of the Catholic faith's power to transform lives in San Diego and beyond.

Maggie Gallagher Explores Sacred Art and Liturgy: A Journey of Faith in Catholic San Diego - JP2 Morning Crew

JP2 Morning Crew: The Sacred in Liturgy & Arts with Maggie Gallagher
 
Date: Jan 12, 2024
Hosts: Brandon Clark & Steve Splonskowski
 
Join us for an enlightening session with Maggie Gallagher, Executive Director of the Benedict XVI Institute. Dive into the essence of the sacred in liturgy and arts, and how they energize the Catholic faith.
 
Topics Covered:
 
Rediscovering the sacred in Catholic liturgy.
The role of beauty and art in expressing faith.
Maggie Gallagher's journey in faith and work with the Benedict XVI Institute.
The importance of the Eucharist in the Catholic tradition.
Spotlight: The connection between faith and arts in Catholic San Diego.
 
Key Insights:
 
Embracing the sacred through liturgy and arts.
The transformative power of beauty in the Catholic faith.
The role of the Eucharist in deepening faith and community.