In this episode of the Real Plus True podcast, co-hosts Emily Mentock and Edmund Mitchell dive deep into the Lord's Prayer, specifically focusing on the opening words, 'Our Father who art in heaven.' The discussion covers the role and qualities of a father, comparing earthly fatherhood with the divine fatherhood of God as revealed by Jesus. They explore the theological foundations of calling God 'Father' and its implications on our relationship with God and each other. They also touch on the challenges people might face due to their own experiences with fatherhood and offer resources and insights on deepening this divine relationship through catechesis and prayer.

(00:00) Emily and Edmund open by welcoming listeners and revisiting this season’s focus on the Lord’s Prayer, introducing this episode’s topic and focus: Learning to pray “Our Father”. They reflect on how cultural portrayals and personal experiences of fatherhood shape our view of God as Father.

(08:28) Edmund and Emily explain that Jesus uniquely reveals God as Father, something we can’t grasp by reason alone. Through Jesus, we learn we are adopted children of God. They highlight how calling God “Abba” was revolutionary at the time, showing a new depth of intimacy with God.

(13:16) The conversation focuses on the importance of a Trinitarian foundation in prayer. God is one and God is three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Praying the Our Father unites us to Jesus’s own relationship with the Father. Edmund and Emily recommend resources for deeper study.

(20:37) Edmund and Emily highlight that the Catechism advises us to set aside flawed earthly images before saying “Our Father.” They note how worldly models of fatherhood can impact our understanding of God as Father.

(27:37) The conversation transitions to emphasizing the power of praying “Our” Father, which unites believers as one family rather than individuals in isolation. Even in private prayer, the communal aspect reminds us we share a bond with all who call God Father. The episode ends by urging listeners to revisit the Lord’s Prayer with deeper gratitude in daily prayer.

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