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Considering Catholicism

Considering Catholicism

By: Greg Smith
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Catholic Church, faith, culture, and history are explained clearly and simply for anyone curious about historic Catholicism. Faithful to the Catechism of the Catholic Church.Copyright 2021 All rights reserved. Christianity Philosophy Social Sciences Spirituality World
Episodes
  • Stylistic Differences at Mass: Chant, Contemporary, Traditional, and Everything In Between (#437)
    Feb 26 2026

    In this follow-up conversation with Cory, we unpack why you can walk into one Catholic parish and experience a reverent, chant-filled Mass with Latin elements, then go to another and hear contemporary music or a more conversational style—yet both are fully valid Catholic Masses. We explain the Roman Missal (the "script" of the Mass), the difference between the unchanging Ordinary and the variable Propers, the legitimate options priests have (like different forms of the Penitential Rite or Eucharistic Prayers), and how music, language, priestly orientation, and posture for receiving Communion all create stylistic variety. Whether you're in OCIA, investigating Catholicism, or a longtime Catholic rediscovering the richness of the liturgy, you'll see how these differences reflect legitimate diversity in the one, universal Church—without changing the substance of the Eucharist. We also touch on the recovery of traditional elements like Gregorian chant and ad orientem celebration, all while keeping things practical and encouraging you to experience the beauty of the Mass in different settings. Twenty centuries. Twenty-four time zones. Two hemispheres. One Church—and one Mass with many beautiful expressions.

    SUPPORT THIS SHOW Considering Catholicism is 100% listener-supported. If this podcast has helped you on your journey, please become a patron today! For as little as $5/month you get: • Every regular episode ad-free and organized into topical playlists • Exclusive bonus content (extra Q&As, Deep-Dive courses, live streams, and more) • My deepest gratitude and a growing community of like-minded listeners

    ➡️ Join now: https://patreon.com/consideringcatholicism (or tap the Patreon link in your podcast app)

    One-time gift: Donate with PayPal!

    CONNECT WITH US • Website & contact form: https://consideringcatholicism.com • Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com • Leave a comment on Patreon (I read every one!)

    RATE & REVIEW If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating (and even better, a review) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — it really helps new listeners find us.

    SHARE THE SHOW Know someone who’s curious about Catholicism? Send them a link or share an episode on social media. Thank you!

    Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

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    45 mins
  • Mass Anywhere: Exploring Parishes, Oratories, Campus Chapels, and Missions (#436)
    Feb 23 2026

    In this conversation with Cory, we dive into the practical side of Catholic life: where you can actually go to attend Mass. We start with the basics—your local territorial parish—and then explore all the other valid options, from oratories at monasteries and religious houses, to campus chapels, military chapels, mission churches in rural or underserved areas, and even parishes that serve specific ethnic or cultural communities. Whether you're in OCIA, a curious non-Catholic, or a cradle Catholic rediscovering the faith, you'll learn why the Mass is the Mass no matter where you go, but the community and "flavor" can vary in beautiful ways. We also touch on the freedom (and responsibility) Catholics have in choosing where to worship, while encouraging a connection to the broader Church. Perfect for anyone wondering, "Okay, but where do I start?"

    SUPPORT THIS SHOW Considering Catholicism is 100% listener-supported. If this podcast has helped you on your journey, please become a patron today! For as little as $5/month you get: • Every regular episode ad-free and organized into topical playlists • Exclusive bonus content (extra Q&As, Deep-Dive courses, live streams, and more) • My deepest gratitude and a growing community of like-minded listeners

    ➡️ Join now: https://patreon.com/consideringcatholicism (or tap the Patreon link in your podcast app)

    One-time gift: Donate with PayPal!

    CONNECT WITH US • Website & contact form: https://consideringcatholicism.com • Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com • Leave a comment on Patreon (I read every one!)

    RATE & REVIEW If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating (and even better, a review) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — it really helps new listeners find us.

    SHARE THE SHOW Know someone who’s curious about Catholicism? Send them a link or share an episode on social media. Thank you!

    Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
  • Stuff Jesus Never Said (#435)
    Feb 19 2026

    Ever heard someone shrug off a clear Church teaching by saying, “Well, Jesus never said that”? It’s a line that’s been used for centuries to challenge Catholic doctrines, practices, and now even basic moral truths. In this snapshot episode, Greg takes on the argument head-on—whether it’s Protestants questioning sacraments, liturgy, or the priesthood, or (more alarmingly) some Catholics and clergy using it to defend things like homosexual acts or gay marriage. Jesus didn’t give an exhaustive rulebook for every modern issue, but that doesn’t mean “silence equals permission.” Greg walks through why this tactic echoes the serpent in Genesis, why the Gospels weren’t meant to be a complete moral encyclopedia, and how apostolic authority and the living Church fill in what the four Gospels don’t spell out. If you’ve ever felt that smug “Jesus never said…” line coming your way—or if you’re tempted to use it yourself—this quick, straight-talking episode will equip you to see through it and stay anchored in the fullness of the faith.

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    12 mins
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