Shannon Wimp Schmidt joins Katie to explore the significance of the papacy, highlighting key teachings and defining moments from the past twelve popes—from Leo XIII at the turn of the twentieth century to Leo XIV today. Together they trace how the papacy has evolved through the personalities, styles, and themes each pope brought to their encyclicals and homilies, showing how the Lord continues to guide his Church.
In the end, they consider a personal question: What role does the pope play in our individual faith journeys today?
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Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
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NEW SERIES Teaser: Leo in the Fisherman's Shoes featuring Katie McGrady
When Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected to the papacy on May 8, 2025, he stepped into the metaphorical shoes of the fisherman worn by 266 men before him. Choosing a name that hadn't been held by a pope in over 100 years, he entered an office held by men with varied personalities, lofty goals, numerous agendas and projects. Learning about those popes only helps us understand this current pope, and when we watch what Pope Leo does, says, writes, and where he'll go, we do so in light of all the ones who have done things in the papacy before. This upcoming series of Ave Explores will take a look at the history of the papacy, and the work of the popes, from Pope Leo XIII at the turn of the century up to Pope Leo XIV today.
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Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
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Week Six: Digital Detox with Sr. Nancy Usselmann, FSP
Sr. Nancy Usselmann, FSP, dives into the intersection of faith and media in today’s digital world. Drawing on the vision of Bl. James Alberione—the founder of the Daughters of St. Paul—she unpacks how we can integrate our faith into the way we consume, create, and share content. Sr. Nancy also invites us to consider the importance of digital fasting—a spiritual detox that helps us reset our minds and hearts amid constant media noise. This episode offers a thoughtful reflection on living faithfully both online and offline.
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Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
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Week Five: Sharing Faith Online That Leads to Real-Life Encounter Kaylee Stoll of FOCUS
As a Catholic convert and Director of Digital Media at FOCUS, Kaylee Stoll knows the power of storytelling online—but also its limits. In this episode, she shares how digital media can reveal the beauty of the Catholic faith while ultimately leading people to in-person encounters with Christ and authentic community. Kaylee discusses the importance of genuine connection, the “look at this” vs. “come to this” balance, and how FOCUS inspires young adults worldwide to grow deeper in their faith.
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Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
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Week Four: Standing on Holy Ground Online with the Women of the Abiding Together Podcast
Michelle Benzinger, Heather Khym, and Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT—the beloved voices behind the Abiding Together podcast—join Katie to reflect on the story behind their show, their commitment to authentic and vulnerable conversations, and the impact of inviting others into their spiritual journey. They share why they believe online spaces can become “holy ground” when we speak with honesty, balance, and love—and why, if a message isn’t real and rooted in truth, it’s not worth sharing.
We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends!
Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)
Check out the Abiding Together Podcast:
https://www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/subscribe
https://www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/
https://www.instagram.com/abidingtogetherpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/abidingtogetherpodcast
A project of Ave Maria Press, Ave Explores helps you discover and learn about aspects of the Catholic faith from a variety of different angles, looking at topics relevant to the spiritual life in a fresh, engaging, and practical way.
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