Podcast
Question of Faith
Hosted by Fr. Damian Ference and Deacon Mike Hayes · EN
A weekly question of faith answered by Cleveland Catholics. Fr. Damian Ference, Vicar of Evangelization and Deacon Mike Hayes Director of Young Adult Ministry in the Diocese of Cleveland co-host with frequent guests from the Diocesan Office who join in the conversation. Sponsored by Briefcase Marketing--check them out at https://www.Briefcase.marketing
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Is This Good-bye?
Jun 300:30:33Tap to summarizeSend us a textSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAll good things must come to an end. After 187 episodes spanning more than three years, we're signing off with our final Question of Faith podcast. But don't worry—this isn't a somber farewell, but rather a reflection on life's transitions and what truly matters.We open with a profound realization that's hit each of us at different points in ministry: while we take our work seriously, the Church continues regardless of our individual contributions. As Fr. Eric puts it, "If I don't do my job, there'll still be people in the Seminary, because it's God who calls, not me." This humbling truth has taught us to hold our roles with a "loose grip," recognizing that our legacy isn't found in buildings bearing our names or possessions that burden others after we're gone.The timing of our finale coincides with organizational changes within the Diocese of Cleveland, where divisions are being combined and new ministries are emerging. While we can't share all the details just yet, we're excited about what's next. And how fitting that we record just after Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit empowered the apostles to spread the Gospel in new languages—a beautiful redemption of the Tower of Babel story that once divided humanity.SPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out some of their successful clients and their most recent client, Doyle Med.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishBetween theological reflections, we answer one final question about fasting before Communion (it's one hour before receiving, not before Mass begins), share softball league updates, and reminisce about memorable moments from our podcast journey. Throughout it all, our conversation maintains that blend of depth and lighthearted banter that's defined Question of Faith from day one.Though this chapter closes, our ministries continue. We're not disappearing—you'll still find us serving throughout the Diocese of Cleveland, just in evolving roles. As we say in our final moments: "It's not goodbye, it's see you later." Thank you for being part of our journey. Special thanks to Dan Fuerst our sponsor at Briefcase Marketing. May the questions of faith continue to guide your path forward.
Transcribe →Are the Orthodox and Catholics Uniting?
May 2700:27:58Tap to summarizeSend us a textSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingCould Orthodox and Catholic Christians finally reunite after centuries of separation? As both traditions celebrated Easter on the same day this year, we explore the fascinating possibility of reconciliation between these ancient branches of Christianity.The calendrical quirk that aligned Orthodox and Catholic Easter dates this year isn't just a mathematical curiosity – it's a powerful symbol of potential unity. While Orthodox Christians typically use the Julian calendar (placing their Easter about 13 days different from the Gregorian calendar used by Catholics), this year's synchronization recalls the shared foundation established at the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. More on this at this link.Pope Leo, whose papal crest bears the motto "In Christ we become one," is continuing dialogue started by Pope Francis regarding a permanent alignment of Easter celebrations. With the 1700th anniversary of Nicaea approaching and Pope Leo planning his first papal trip to Turkey for the commemoration, the momentum for meaningful unity seems stronger than ever. This historic moment coincides with what we're calling a "springtime in Christianity" – a period of renewal marked by increasing interest in faith traditions among younger generations seeking meaning beyond what secular culture offers.SPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out some of their successful clients and their most recent client, Doyle Med.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishThe moving story of the Four Chaplains – Catholic, Jewish, Reformed, and Methodist ministers who gave away their life jackets and died together praying for others as their ship sank during WWII – provides a powerful model for interfaith cooperation. Their example reminds us that unity doesn't require uniformity, but rather mutual respect and shared purpose.Whether through local ecumenical efforts like joint Good Friday services or international dialogues between church leaders, these steps toward reunification represent healing for one of Christianity's most significant historical divisions. Could this be the moment when the Orthodox and Catholic traditions finally find their way back to communion? Join us as we explore this question and its profound implications for the future of faith.
Transcribe →Will Pope Leo Be a Unifier?
May 2100:20:05Tap to summarizeSend us a textSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingPope Leo XIV emerges as a potential unifier for a polarized Church, with Catholics across the spectrum expressing excitement about his election. His deliberate use of different papal symbols and outreach to diverse groups demonstrates his commitment to continuity with tradition while moving the Church forward.• Both traditional and progressive Catholics showing enthusiasm for Pope Leo• The Pope's background as both a mathematician and canon lawyer suggests precision and clarity• His use of symbols and vestments from different papal predecessors indicates continuity• Early meetings with the Orthodox Church signal commitment to ecumenical dialogue• His academic connections to Villanova, the Angelicum, and Catholic Theological Union• The newly ordained priests in Cleveland all grew up in local parishes• Summer ministry events including Wednesday evening gatherings at St. John Cathedral• Young adult softball league beginning June 1st at St. John Bosco Parish• Procession to the diocesan shrine planned for July 19thSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out just two of their successful clients and their most recent client, Womankind.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishJoin us at St. John Cathedral every Wednesday night starting May 28th. We'll gather at 5:30 PM for Vespers, followed by food, drinks and live music in the courtyard from 6:15 to 7:50 PM, ending with Night Prayer.
Transcribe →What Can We Expect from Pope Leo XIV?
May 13, 202500:35:52Tap to summarizeSend us a textSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingPope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, becomes the first American pope in Church history, bringing a unique blend of Augustinian spirituality, canon law expertise, and pastoral experience from his years serving the poor in Peru.• White smoke appeared lunchtime (EST) on Thursday, signaling a relatively quick conclave.• Pope Leo chose his name after Leo XIII, known for social justice teaching.• His first words as pope were "Peace be with you," signaling a focus on unity.• Both traditionalists and progressives have responded positively to his election. • As an Augustinian, he comes from a religious order and will bring his order's perspective to the papacy.• His American accent and Midwestern English create a new sound for papal addresses.• He combines elements of his predecessors: Francis's concern for the poor with Benedict's academic approach.• His living brothers in Chicago and Florida offer a humanizing glimpse into his family life.• Early indications suggest he'll be a unifying figure while continuing Francis's mission in a "more buttoned-up" style.• He's already begun peace initiatives, meeting with Ukraine's president shortly after his election.Let us pray for Pope Leo XIV as he begins his pontificate, that the Lord will guide him in leading the Church through whatever hardships may come.Church Search goes to St. Noel.SPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out just two of their successful clients and their most recent client, Womankind.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishFr Damian invites you:Jubilee Year pilgrimages will happen across the Diocese of Cleveland: June 12th at St. John of the Cross to Lourdes Shrine.July 19th at St. John Bosco to Shrine of the Queen of the Holy Rosary at Incarnate Word Academy (especially for young adults),July 26th at St. Anne Shrine (focused on grandparents and families).Readings for the 5th Sunday of Easter.
Transcribe →Are There Threats to the Papal Conclave?
May 6, 202500:32:00Tap to summarizeSend us a textThe papal conclave beginning May 7th faces various threats including political influences and spiritual challenges, requiring worldwide prayer for the 124 cardinal electors during this sacred process.• Catholics can "adopt" a cardinal to pray for through adoptacardinal.org• Vatican preparations include three white cassocks in different sizes for the new Pope.• The Cardinals and any staff took an oath of secrecy for the conclave proceedings.• A previous participant described feeling the "palpable presence of the Holy Spirit" during the conclave.• Speculation centers on Asian candidates like Cardinal Tagle from the Philippines.• The next pope may choose the name Paul VII or John XXIV rather than Francis II.• The conclave may last 2-3 days, likely concluding by Friday or Saturday. Although Deacon Mike firmly believes it will be faster.SPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out just two of their successful clients and their most recent client, Womankind.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishFr Damian invites you:Jubilee Year pilgrimages will happen across the Diocese of Cleveland: June 12th at St. John of the Cross to Lourdes Shrine. July 19th at St. John Bosco to Shrine of the Queen of the Holy Rosary at Incarnate Word Academy (especially for young adults), July 26th at St. Anne Shrine (focused on grandparents and families).Readings for the 4th Sunday of Easter
Transcribe →Who Was Surprised to be at Pope Francis' Funeral?
Apr 30, 202500:27:50Tap to summarizeSend us a textSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingCleveland Vocations Director Father Eric Garris shares his unexpected experience of being in on vacation in Rome and ending up at Pope Francis' funeral and his last public appearence on Easter Sunday. What began as a trip to celebrate Easter with Cleveland priests studying abroad transformed into a historic moment as Father Garris found himself witnessing history firsthand and becoming a media expert of sorts for various American media outlets. Fr Garris details:• Originally traveling to Rome for Holy Week and Carlo Acutis' canonization.• Distributed communion at St. Peter's during Holy Week Services.• He received news of Pope Francis' death while praying at John Paul II's tomb.• Joined other priests in the prayers for the dead in St. Peter's Square.• Attended the papal funeral alongside other Cleveland and Ohio priests.• Reflected on Pope Francis' commitment to being with his people until the end.• Discussed the universality of the Church gathering at such historic moments.• Noted how many young people came for canonization of Carlo Acutis but ended up like him attending a Papal funeral.• Emphasized trust in the Church's continuity as the conclave approaches.We also briefly touch on the upcoming papal conclave and set some parameters that the Cardinals might use to determine the next Pope. The Pillar has thoughts, as does the National Catholic Reporter to give two perspectives from both extremes.SPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out just two of their successful clients and their most recent client, Womankind who we know well.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishChurch Search is St Peter's Basilica in Rome.The week's readings on St. Peter and more.We'll be covering the upcoming conclave beginning May 7th in future episodes. If you have questions of faith, email mhayes@dioceseofcleveland.org.
Transcribe →What Happens Now That Pope Francis Has Died?
Apr 22, 202500:25:52Tap to summarizeSend us a textSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingPope Francis died on Easter Monday after celebrating Easter one last time on this side of the veil before going home to the Father. We reflect on his legacy and discuss what happens next for the Catholic Church during this time of transition. Both hosts received the news early in the morning and took time to pray and process. (UPDATE: Funeral is now Saturday 4/26 Check out Sarah Hart's new song celebrating Pope Francis' life.Some Highlights from our reflective show on Pope Francis and his legacy:• We both admired Pope Francis for his pastoral nature and commitment to those on the peripheries.• When a pope dies: We discuss the various rituals: his body is prepared for a wake, a funeral Mass & burial takes place quickly, and then the conclave begins after 15-20 days.• Pope Francis appointed many cardinals from countries never before represented in the College of Cardinals which will make for an interesting conclave.• Deacon Mike and Fr. Damian discuss some potential papal candidates include Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from Jerusalem and Cardinal Tagle from the Philippines• The Easter season reminds us that "death is not the end" as we celebrate resurrection and new life.• This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday featuring the gospel story of "Doubting Thomas"SPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out just two of their successful clients and their most recent client, Womankind who we know well.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishThis Easter season, we're invited to show the Lord our wounds so he can heal them, following Pope Francis's example of embracing the wounded and marginalized.
Transcribe →How Does Holy Week Make Us Holy?
Apr 15, 202500:20:47Tap to summarizeSend us a textSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingHoly Week stands as more than a commemoration—it's an invitation to personal transformation through entering deeply into Christ's Paschal mystery, experiencing both suffering and resurrection in our own lives.• Entering fully into the liturgies of the Triduum rather than taking a minimalist approach• The importance of seeing Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Vigil as one continuous liturgy• Traditional practices like our Holy Night Hike pilgrimage on Holy Thursday, and food blessings that enhance Holy Week.• Bishop Malesic's pastoral suggestion to personalize the Stations of the Cross by connecting them to our own experiences• Finding healing in those places of suffering where Christ wants to bring resurrection• Deacon Mike's powerful story of releasing betrayal before ordination• The Easter Gospel Readings: how some disciples arrive at faith differently, like Peter and John at the tombSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out just two of their successful clients and their most recent client, Womankind who we know well.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishChurch Search:Deacon Mike will be at St. Christopher Parish in Rocky RIver for all of Holy Week. He's preaching at the 10AM Mass on Easter Sunday.Fr. Damian will be at:Holy Thursday: St. Francis DeSales in ParmaGood Friday: Preaching at the Good Friday Liturgy at the Cathedral.Holy Saturday: Our Lady of Victory in TallmadgeEaster Sunday: St. James in Lakewood at 10:30AMWe will both be walking on Holy Thursday for Holy Night Hike in Tremont/Ohio CityJoin us next time as we continue exploring questions of faith following the Easter celebration. Follow us online for more content and upcoming episodes.
Transcribe →What's Up with Catholic Sisters?
Apr 8, 202500:27:08Tap to summarizeSend us a textSPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingGuests: Women's Religious Archives CollaborativeSr. Susan Durkin, OSU, Executive DirectorSarah Lubelski, Lead ArchivistCatholic Sisters have shaped American society through education, healthcare, and social services since 1727, yet their stories remain largely untold outside their communities. The Women's Religious Archives Collaborative aims to change that by creating a state-of-the-art heritage center in Cleveland's historic Central neighborhood.• Women Religious Archives Collaborative breaking ground May 2025 in Cleveland• 41 congregations across US and Canada contributing their historical collections.• 32,000-square-foot facility will include climate-controlled vaults and exhibition space.• Project highlights sisters' contributions through education, healthcare, and social services.• Archive preserves everything from photographs and documents to personal artifacts.• Stories include the sister who roller-skated through "five-mile highway" convent hallways.• Distinction explained between sisters (apostolic) and nuns (monastic/cloistered)• Cleveland uniquely home to 17 motherhouses at one point in diocesan history.• Facility expected to open December 2026 as research destination and educational center.• Project celebrates the sisters' quiet, transformative impact on countless lives and communities.Learn more at archivescollaborative.org and follow the project on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on this important preservation effort. Special thanks to Margaret Eigsti, Managing Director for her assistance with this episode.SPONSOR: Briefcase MarketingAt Briefcase Marketing, we create marketing that inspires action and delivers results. We will:Clarify your message to attract the right audience.Streamline your website to convert more visitors into customers, donors or volunteers.Create consistency to build trust and deepen relationships across every marketing platform (Emails, Ads, Social Media, Etc).Check out just two of their successful clients and their most recent client, Womankind who we know well.WomankindTheology of the Body CLESt. John Cantius ParishChurch Search goes to Blessed Trinity and St Brendan's.Readings for Palm Sunday can be found here.SPONSOR: Briefcase Marketing
Transcribe →When Did Eucharistic Adoration Begin?
Apr 1, 202500:28:18Tap to summarizeSend us a textHow did the practice of Eucharistic Adoration begin? This question launches us into a fascinating journey through Church history, tracing the development of this profound devotional practice from its earliest roots to modern expressions.The story begins in the early Church, where consecrated hosts were first "reposed" for the sick around the third century. While formal adoration as we know it wouldn't emerge until much later, these early practices revealed a growing understanding that Christ's presence remained in the Eucharist even after Mass concluded. The pivotal moment came in 1226 when King Louis VII of France requested the Blessed Sacrament be exposed in celebration of military victory—marking what many consider the first formal instance of Eucharistic Adoration.The practice truly flourished with the establishment of the Feast of Corpus Christi and through St. Thomas Aquinas' beautiful Eucharistic hymns and prayers. Throughout our conversation, we explore how adoration complements rather than competes with Mass attendance, creating a spiritual rhythm that nurtures our relationship with Christ. For those unfamiliar with adoration, we offer practical guidance on how to pray in silence, suggesting different forms of prayer—adoration, thanksgiving, contrition, and supplication—that can deepen this encounter.Perhaps most moving are the stories of transformation, where young people discover Christ's real presence not in theological concepts but in the profound silence of adoration. In our distracted, noise-filled world, these moments of intentional disconnection provide spiritual nourishment many desperately need. Whether you're a lifelong adorer or curious newcomer, this episode provides historical context, practical guidance, and spiritual encouragement for encountering Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.What might the Lord say to you in those moments of sacred silence? There's only one way to find out.
Transcribe →