Podcast
The Normal Christian Life
Hosted by Frs. Michael and Christopher Trummer, Mary Bielski · EN
What does ”ordinary Christianity” look like exactly? Using Scripture, Church history and personal testimony, two Catholic priests, Frs. Michael and Chris Trummer, and Mary Bielski offer a renewed vision of what our lives can be like as Christians. Far from being ”ordinary”, the normal Christian life is an entirely new life empowered by the Holy Spirit -- drawing upon a divine inheritance, manifesting supernatural power, and bearing a staggering promise of glory.
25episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Being "Religious" Is a Good Thing | S2 E28
Oct 2801:03:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Father Michael Trummer and Father Christopher Trummer take on the often-misunderstood topic of religion—a word that many Christians today regard with suspicion. They acknowledge that much of the criticism directed at “being religious” arises from real problems: hypocrisy, self-reliance, transactional love, and an overemphasis on outward appearances. Yet, rather than dismissing religion altogether, the hosts argue that it is a divine reality—instituted by God in the Old Testament, fulfilled and transformed by Christ, and sustained in the life of the Church. They invite listeners to recover a renewed understanding of religion as a virtue: a purified way of relating to God through ordered worship, teaching, and community. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:35 Words and Semantics 01:55 Religion vs. Relationship 04:52 Criticisms of Religious Practices 12:36 Self-Reliance and Striving in Faith 28:30 The Virtue of Religion 33:19 Forgotten Passages and Jesus' Jewish Roots 34:15 Old Testament Laws and Christian Practices 37:05 The Early Christian Worship and Eucharist 39:17 Development of Christian Liturgy 45:25 Authority and Hierarchy in the Church 52:58 The Role of Rituals and Symbols in Worship 01:01:42 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
Transcribe →Not Ashamed of the Gospel | S2 E27
Oct 1500:54:04Tap to summarizeJoin Fr. Christopher Trummer and Fr. Michael Trummer in a heartfelt discussion on the challenges and importance of boldly preaching the gospel in today's society. In light of recent political violence, including the assassination of conservative speaker Charlie Kirk, the hosts explore what it means to speak the truth, even when it leads to opposition. Drawing from the life of Jesus and various scriptures, they address the balance between being loving and proclaiming the truth. They also share personal experiences and practical advice on overcoming the fear of conflict and rejection. This episode encourages believers to be courageous in their faith and to rely on the Holy Spirit for boldness in standing up for what is right. Support Our Mission through Patreon – patreon.com/TheNCLPodcast 00:00 Introduction: The Challenge of Speaking the Truth 00:52 The Complexity of Love and Conflict 01:46 Temptations and Challenges for Priests 02:42 Reflecting on Charlie Kirk's Assassination 06:38 Jesus' Teachings on Persecution 08:30 Balancing Love and Boldness 13:01 The Role of Priests and Parents 14:42 The Importance of Moral Teachings 18:59 Living Boldly in Faith 44:12 Practical Advice for Overcoming Fear 51:47 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
Transcribe →Prophecy: The Missing Piece in Evangelization w/ Sean Smith | S2 E26
Sep 2401:06:03Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Normal Christian Life, Fr. Michael Trummer and Fr. Christopher Trummer, joined by Mary Bielski, have an inspiring conversation with Sean Smith. Sean shares his journey of discovering the gift of prophecy and how it has profoundly impacted his evangelism efforts. From personal testimonies to practical tips on how to hear God's voice, the discussion covers the importance of the prophetic in today's ministry. They also delve into the current move of God to bring about revival and unity in the church. Listen in to be encouraged and equipped to recognize and act on God's voice in your own life. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:55 Sean Smith's Testimony: Early Life and Challenges 06:41 A Life-Changing Encounter with Jesus 10:33 The Power of Prophetic Evangelism 14:49 Practical Examples of Prophetic Evangelism 18:29 Real-Life Stories and Impact 24:11 Discerning God's Voice in Everyday Situations 32:40 The Door to the Spirit Realm 32:59 Evangelism and God's Power Tools 33:35 A Personal Encounter with Prophecy 36:14 The Role of the Holy Spirit 38:09 Prophetic Evangelism in Action 40:47 The Simplicity of Evangelization 46:36 Hearing God's Voice 55:24 A Time of Revival and Harvest 01:01:34 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
Transcribe →Simplicity and True Prosperity w/Catherine Porter | S2 E25
Aug 2901:25:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode, hosts Fr. Michael, Fr. Christopher, and Mary Bielski are joined by guest Catherine Porter to discuss the often overlooked yet pivotal topic of simplicity and detachment from material possessions in the Christian life. The episode explores how Jesus emphasized simplicity throughout the Gospel and how this principle is intricately tied to our relationship with God. Through personal testimonies, scriptural insights, and theological reflections, the conversation reveals that aligning our hearts with God's will in terms of wealth and possessions is essential for true joy, freedom, and holistic discipleship. Join us as we delve into how living simply not only deepens our intimacy with God but also opens avenues for greater generosity, and ultimately, a more fulfilled and spiritually rich life.
Transcribe →The Body Heals Itself: Wounding and Healing within the Church | S2 E24
Aug 1101:05:57Tap to summarizeIn this especially vulnerable episode, Fr. Michael Trummer, Fr. Christopher Trummer, and Mary Bielski delve into the complex issue of woundedness within the Church. They explore how many people struggle with their faith because of inconsistency and hypocrisy on the part of Christians, whether fellow believers in the pew or priests and other leaders. Acknowledging the hurt and the legitimate anger and indignation, they discuss the need for forgiveness, accountability, and effective communication in healing these wounds. The conversation aims to provide hope and practical steps for those who have been hurt within the Church, so that all of us can cling to Christ through intercession, compassion, and by staying engaged in the community. Support Our Mission through Patreon: patreon.com/TheNCLPodcast
Transcribe →BIG GOD Little Devil with Dr. Sean Tobin | S2 E21
Jul 5, 202501:20:19Tap to summarizeIn this enlightening episode, Fr. Michael Trummer and Fr. Christopher Trummer welcome clinical psychologist Dr. Sean Tobin to explore the complex topic of deliverance. Dr. Tobin shares his unique journey from atheism to faith, his experience with exorcisms, and how his background in psychology intersects with spiritual healing. They discuss common misconceptions about the demonic, how to properly approach deliverance, and emphasize the importance of relationship with Christ over formulaic solutions. Dr. Tobin also delves into the role of intimate prayer and the healing of memories in achieving spiritual freedom. Tune in for a deep dive into how the power of the gospel and the love of God can set us free. "Support Our Mission through Patreon patreon.com/TheNCLPodcast" 00:00 Understanding the Demonic: Common Misconceptions 00:46 Introducing Dr. Sean Tobin: A Journey from Atheism to Faith 02:01 Dr. Tobin's Conversion and Early Experiences 04:14 Integrating Faith and Psychology 08:12 Deliverance Through Intimacy with Christ 16:31 The Role of Exorcism and Deliverance Prayers 22:10 A Case Study: Healing Through Inner Prayer 31:44 Balancing Awareness of Spiritual Warfare 38:04 Psychoanalysis and Superstition 39:10 Power of Renunciation Prayers 40:05 Jesus' Encounters on the Road to Jericho 41:21 Command Prayers and Acts of Love 42:34 Jesus' Focus on Identity and Restoration 44:12 Moana and the Power of True Identity 48:49 The Role of Demons and Deliverance 55:50 Healing Through the Gospel 01:04:26 Inner Healing and Memory Prayer 01:16:48 Concluding Thoughts and Prayer
Transcribe →What's Stopping You from Hearing God's Voice? | S2 E 20
Jun 19, 202500:54:15Tap to summarizeWe often want God to speak louder and more clearly, but the invitation always for us to draw near to Him, to recognize and appreciate the ways He is already speaking. Following our earlier episode on hearing God's voice, we now dive deeper into this central aspect of prayer. We explore various conditions and postures of the heart and offer practical tips to help you better tune in to God's voice. Discover key elements such as cultivating faith and expectation, maintaining a positive image of God and self, practicing stillness and silence, desiring God's will, engaging in praise and gratitude, and the need for discernment.
Transcribe →You Can Hear God's Voice – Here's How | S2 E19
May 21, 202501:11:04Tap to summarizeIn this episode of 'The Normal Christian Life,' hosts Fathers Michael and Father Christopher Trummer, along with guest Laura Shoulders, discuss the common struggle of hearing God's voice. They explore various ways through which God communicates, including through thoughts, imagination, feelings, conscience, and dreams. The conversation emphasizes that everyone is made to hear God's voice and that being attuned to subtle impressions and the conditions that foster a receptive environment are key. They share personal experiences and practical tips on recognizing and interpreting these divine communications. Support Our Mission through Patreon patreon.com/TheNCLPodcast 00:00 Introduction and Struggles with Hearing God's Voice 00:55 Personal Experiences and Struggles 01:36 Understanding Our Identity in Hearing God's Voice 03:11 Biblical Foundations and Personal Reflections 05:08 The Role of the Holy Spirit and Personal Revelation 06:48 Practical Insights on Hearing God's Voice 11:31 The Subtlety of God's Communication 23:12 Impressions and Conscience as God's Voice 35:13 Understanding God's Patience and Kindness 35:41 Spiritual Senses and Impressions 36:17 Feelings as a Way God Communicates 37:40 Unique Ways God Speaks to Us 38:14 The Broader Context of God's Voice 39:13 Experiencing God Through Feelings 42:00 The Power of Images in Communication 44:27 The Role of Imagination in Spiritual Perception 53:27 God's Communication Through Dreams 01:00:45 Highlighting as a Form of Divine Communication 01:06:56 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement
Transcribe →Is Prophecy Still a Thing? | S2 E18
May 14, 202501:06:59Tap to summarizeJoin hosts Mary Bielski, Fr. Christopher, and Fr. Michael with special guest Laura Shoulders as they delve into the often misunderstood and overlooked gift of prophecy within the Christian community. In this episode of 'The Normal Christian Life,' they discuss the biblical foundations, personal experiences, and misconceptions of prophecy. They aim to demystify what prophecy really means and how it plays a crucial role in edifying and loving others in the contemporary church. Discover how prophecy is not just an Old Testament relic, but a vibrant part of authentic Christianity, designed for the renewal of the church and personal spiritual growth. This episode also provides practical insights and stories that illustrate the transformative power of hearing and sharing God's voice today. Support Our Mission through Patreon patreon.com/TheNCLPodcast 00:00 Introduction to Prophecy 00:20 Personal Experiences with Prophecy 01:21 Prophecy in the Catholic Church 03:29 Understanding Old Testament Prophets 05:26 The New Covenant and Prophecy 06:48 Prophecy in Modern Times 09:47 Personal Testimonies and Stories 22:26 Prophecy vs. Fortune Telling 26:30 Challenges and Misconceptions 29:23 Evangelization and Prophecy 33:21 Unexpected Encounter with a Buddhist 34:18 Discerning Spirits and Prophetic Gifts 36:26 The Importance of Prophecy in the New Testament 46:09 Personal Stories of Prophecy 49:59 Encouragement to Seek Prophetic Gifts 01:03:35 Closing Thoughts and Prayer
Transcribe →"Increase Our Faith!": How to Overcome Unbelief and Cultivate Faith | S2 E17
May 8, 202500:41:22Tap to summarizeJoin Fr. Michael Trummer and Fr. Christopher Trummer in this episode of Normal Christian Life as they explore ways to cultivate the gift of faith. They discuss personal experiences, the importance of community, repentance, and practical steps to strengthen one's faith. The episode emphasizes humility, childlike trust, and the role of spiritual senses in deepening one's relationship with God. Additionally, they introduce their new Patreon account to help support and grow the podcast. Tune in for profound insights and practical tips to enrich your spiritual journey. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:34 Support Through Patreon 01:36 Impact of Paid Promotions 02:44 Cultivating the Gift of Faith 06:14 The Role of Repentance 08:00 Personal Testimonies and Conversion Stories 12:15 Experiencing God and Developing Spiritual Senses 14:08 The Influence of Sin on Faith 17:46 Faith as a Graced Choice 25:08 The Importance of Community in Faith 31:10 Practicing Faith Through Actions 37:44 Faith and Reason Working Together 39:40 Closing Prayer for the Gift of Faith
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