Holy Family Radio Podcasts (AM 720 - WHYF)

This weeks episode features a discussions of noise vs signal and the "Finish Line Pledge".

Host Bill Benning is joined by Jo Ann Kimmick, as they discuss the Cursillo Movement in the Diocese of Harrishburg.

Host Bill Benning is joined by Jill Coyne, as they discuss the Cursillo Movement in the Harrisburg Diocese.

A weekly program produced by the Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg, Pa.

 

SHOW TITLE: Stir Into Flame: Bishop Senior's Call for Laity and Family

SHOW DESCRIPTION:

In this week's episode, we continue our deep dive into Bishop Senior's Pastoral letter and plan for the Diocese, Stir Into Flame. We talk about the ways the laity are called to evangelize, how the sacraments empower us, and how to handle the holiday season with family. 

RESOURCES: 

Bishop Senior's Pastoral Letter - https://www.hbgdiocese.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Pastoral-Letter-Digital-Booklet.pdf

 

 

Jesus tells us to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Easy, right?! ... We wish! Why do we like to overcomplicate things? Why do we fall into the trap that for an idea to be important it must be complex? How do we get back to basics? Join Jess and Mel as they discuss the pendulum swing they find themselves in from overcomplicating the gospel that causes burnout to comfort in complacency– and how implementing the Simple Yes Method has helped them get out of that constant tug and pull. Today’s episode is a reminder to go back to basics. That often it’s the simplest actions that have the biggest impact. So, love God, love others, and find peace & freedom in the simplicity of being present.$ 👍Be sure to like and subscribe for new episodes and updates! ✨Follow us on Instagram 🎶Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Books Mentioned: + Sincerely, Stoneheart by Emily Willson + He Leadeth Me by Walter J Ciszek, S.J. with Daniel L. Flaherty, S.J. + The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence

This episode features an interviews with Fr. Alberto Ares SJ and WHYF volunteer Mark Schmidt.

This week's guest is Leanna Via.

Is Halloween okay for Catholics? What does it really mean to be a saint—and is it actually possible for ordinary people?

In this episode of Rooted in Rising, Julie Shore and Father Michael Pray dig into the deeper meaning of Halloween as All Hallows’ Eve, the vigil of All Saints Day. They explore how these days (together with All Souls) form a kind of “odd Triduum” that confronts our culture’s fear of death and points us toward eternal life.

Father Pray shares:

• A clear Catholic lens on costumes, candy, and “scary” imagery
• Why the Church historically placed a holy feast over older pagan practices
• The true definition of a saint (it’s simpler—and more hopeful—than most people think)
• Practical ways to grow in holiness: radical love of God, daily prayer “even when it’s hard,” patience, forgiveness, and standing up for the truth

They also pray for Pope Leo XIV’s recovery and reflect on joy in suffering, the universal call to holiness, and how Advent invites us into patient waiting.

Whether you’re navigating Halloween with kids, wondering if sainthood is “for someone else,” or just needing a reminder that God’s mercy is bigger than your past, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and a challenge to choose the light—one small step at a time.

Listen now and join the conversation.

 

A weekly program produced by the Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg, Pa.

SHOW TITLE: The Surprising Truth About Faithful Citizenship After The Election

SHOW DESCRIPTION:

In this episode, Eric Failing, executive director of the PA Catholic Conference, discusses the importance of faith, prayer, and humility in navigating post-election challenges for Catholics. He emphasizes the role of adoration, understanding God's will, and maintaining focus on Christ beyond politics.

SCRIPTURE: Psalm 46:10

1. SPOTLIGHT: St. Oscar Romero

RESOURCES: www.hbgdiocese.org/voter-resources

 

Friends see each other across hallways.  Friends see each other in different rooms.  Friends see each other through locked doors.  But people who are other than friends often miss what’s right before their eyes.  Is Jesus your friend?  Do you see yourself as His?  If you’re tired of settling for relationships that feed your loneliness but can’t nourish your hunger, if you’re tired of settling for friendships that are either in your phone or are your phone, then plug in this week with Eleanor, Brenda, and Randy, and set yourself up to be restored by the Living Water that seeks to breathe life back into your life.

This week's guest is Jarrod Carpin.

This week's guest is Jason Holland.

A weekly program produced by the Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg, Pa.

 

SHOW TITLE: Why Kids Need Laughter Before They Can Hear the Gospel

SHOW DESCRIPTION:

 Author, musician, and comedian Chris Padgett shares his inspiring journey to Catholicism, the importance of authenticity in faith, and how joy and suffering are intertwined in the Christian life. This episode offers practical insights for parents, youth, and anyone seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus.

SCRIPTURE: 2 Corinthians 12:9

SAINT SPOTLIGHT: St. Pier Giorgio Frassati

RESOURCES:

Christ the King Celebration of Youth Event - https://www.hbgdiocese.org/event/christ-the-king-celebration-of-youth/

Chris Padgett Website - https://chrispadgett.com/

 

This week's guest is Dr. Maderia.