✨ Episode Overview

In this deeply moving conversation, Fr. John Gribowich sits down with Paul Fahey, a counselor, catechist, and founder of Third Space, to discuss what it means to stay rooted in Catholicism while lovingly confronting its failures.

From the experience of spiritual abuse to the hope of reconstructing faith, Paul shares how healing, nuance, and honesty are not enemies of the Church—but vital signs of life.

This episode is for anyone who has ever struggled to reconcile their love for the Catholic tradition with the pain caused by instances of institutional brokenness.

👤 Guest Bio: Paul Fahey

Paul Fahey is a limited licensed professional counselor, retreat leader, and catechist who serves those who have been spiritually and sexually abused within the Catholic Church. Through his platform Third Space, Paul offers tools, reflection, and workshops for people who desire to remain Catholic while having the freedom to call out dysfunction. He is a voice of compassionate reform—a true preacher proclaiming the Gospel not just from the pulpit, but from the pew. (as one who yearns for the Church to become who She is—the healing Body of Christ).

🔗 Mentions & Resources

Paul’s site and podcast: catholicthirdspace.com
The Name of God Is Mercy – Pope Francis
Fratelli Tutti – Encyclical on human fraternity
On Job – Gustavo Gutiérrez

Learn more about Sunday to Sunday’s CALLED community and programs: preachingjourney.com

💡 Key Themes

How to walk with those who have been hurt by the Church
Why nuanced Catholicism may be the future of evangelization
The spiritual power of holding contradiction without coercion
Letting go of possessiveness and control in ministry

Seeing Christ in the wounded and marginalized