2026 Forge Conference Reflections with Joe Stopulos - 03/02/2026

Dr. Carrie Gress discusses cultural and spiritual realities facing the modern world, including the importance of recognizing evil and standing firm in truth. She shares insights from her book Something Wicked on navigating today’s challenges with faith.

Fr. Ben Valentine joins the show to reflect on the upcoming Sunday Gospel and how it speaks into the lives of Catholics today. His insights encourage listeners to approach Mass with deeper faith and attentiveness.

Today’s Catholic Morning Show helps listeners prepare for Sunday Mass, confront the reality of evil in the modern world, and celebrate the gift of consecrated religious life. From Scripture reflection to vocation witness, this episode highlights the Church’s call to holiness in every season.

John Oven explains the practice and spiritual richness of First Saturday Devotions. He highlights how this Marian devotion offers opportunities for reparation, peace, and deeper union with Christ through the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Mother Petra discusses Sighs Too Deep for Words, a new film from Christ the Bridegroom Monastery exploring the heart of contemplative prayer. She shares how the film invites viewers into the mystery of prayerful intimacy with God.

Deacon Randy Kiel reflects on the First and Second Mass readings for the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time. His insights help listeners enter into the meaning of the Scriptures and prepare for Sunday worship.

Today’s Catholic Morning Show invites listeners to enter more deeply into the Sunday Scriptures, explore a new film on contemplative prayer, and rediscover the beauty of First Saturday Devotions. From liturgical reflection to lived devotion, the episode highlights the rich spiritual resources the Church offers for daily life.

John Huynh explains how marriage and family life form the foundation of society and serve as the first place where children learn love and mercy. He reflects on the home as the first classroom for understanding human dignity and purpose.

Fr. Dan Guenther discusses his role as Iowa Knights of Columbus State Chaplain and how the Knights support the Church through fraternity and faith. He also shares details about an upcoming November pilgrimage to Italy for Knights across Iowa.

Today on The Catholic Morning Show, we speak with Fr. Dan Guenther about his role as Iowa Knights of Columbus State Chaplain and an upcoming pilgrimage to Italy. Then, John Huynh shares how marriage and family serve as the first classroom for teaching love, mercy, and human dignity.

Parishioners Kelly Bunkers and Misty Hade talk about St. Luke the Evangelist’s Green Gala, a parish fundraising event happening February 14th. They share how the event will support parish ministries and strengthen community connections.

Carrie Potter and Bobbi Jo Smith from Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Des Moines discuss Human Trafficking Awareness Month and how the Diocese is working to raise awareness, support survivors, and educate communities. They share practical ways listeners can recognize trafficking and help promote human dignity.

Today’s Catholic Morning Show highlights how the Church responds to social challenges and celebrates community life. From Human Trafficking Awareness Month with Catholic Charities to a parish Green Gala fundraiser, this episode shows faith in action across the Diocese.

Jonna Schuster discusses an upcoming Pre-Lenten mission — Ignite the Heart — at St. Patrick’s Church in Clear Lake (Feb 1–3). She shares how this mission will help parishioners prepare spiritually for Lent through prayer, teaching, and encounter with the Holy Spirit.

Dr. Dan Ryan explains Honoring Our History, Faith in Our Future, a major capital campaign at Dowling Catholic High School designed to update facilities and invest in future generations of Catholic leaders. He highlights how faithful education forms hearts, minds, and service for life.