In this episode of Catholic Soup, Deacon Dave Proffitt and Father Bill Cleaves engage in a profound discussion on the importance of faith, hope, community, and accepting our crosses to bear. The episode comes on the backdrop of Easter and the clergy’s retelling of their experiences during the holy week. The hosts reflect on the intensive effort put into ensuring the week was a success and how their spiritual community played a significant part.

They delve into the concept of feeling welcomed in a community and the impact it has on drawing individuals back to faith. In this conversation, they highlight Christ's call for us to carry our cross and its relevance in our daily lives.

Deacon Dave Proffitt shares a personal story about his wife Lynn's recent cancer diagnosis and how this experience brought into focus their faith journey and the power of community support. They invoke St. Paul’s assurance that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to his purpose.

The episode also discusses the Outreach Center and other community outreach efforts in bringing hope and support to those in need. The recognition that their efforts work as a reflection of their faith and their sense of community should be an inspiration for their audience. The episode reiterates that through these acts of service, they communicate, 'Jesus is still here' and extend the hope of resurrection to all.

The episode concludes with a prayer and a humorous anecdote from one of their church services, reminding listeners again of the importance of faith and laughter in navigating life’s challenges.

In the much-anticipated return of the esteemed figures of the Catholic Soup podcast, Deacon Dave Proffitt and Father Bill Cleves embark on a spiritual journey, bringing to light the challenges faced in the aftermath of Covid-19 and paying tribute to the tireless work of Priest Michael McDonald. Delving into the divisive topic of prosperity gospel, they express deep concern over the potential for harm, and underline the mission of the cross during Lent.

In the heat of their enthralling conversation, Father Bill brings forth the purpose of God's incarnation and emphasizes the power of genuine human connection. Drawing upon their own experiences, they celebrate the growing sense of community fostered within their parish, especially during hard times, and recall the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

The conversation further touches the depths of human struggles, engaging with the recurring theme in the Psalms of a constant search for God's presence. They speak about the trials of life as Jesus's cross that we bear, ensuring us of His presence within these challenges, bringing us joy and peace.

As the discourse unfolds, the profound Hebrew meaning of peace is mentioned in relation to the concept of surrender. Transitioning to personal testimonies, they discuss the closure of the beloved retreat center and its effect on their parish's wellness. They further explore the necessity of clergy wellness, emphasizing the importance of personal well-being for priests to lead fulfilled lives.

To sum up, this awakening discussion urges listeners to share their journey to offer solace for others undergoing similar struggles, promote patience, and create a healthy context for clergy wellness. Concluding with a prayer for strength and humble hearts, this conversation seeks to inspire and comfort all listeners.

It's a been a hot minute since we've done an episode of Catholic Soup. We're back so join Fr. Bill and Deacon Dave as they discuss our Catholic faith.