Why are so many people losing trust in the Catholic Church — and did the Church actually earn that distrust?

Distrust of the Catholic Church is everywhere today — in headlines, online debates, and even among Catholics themselves. But where did that suspicion actually come from? In this episode of Fire Branded, T.J. Haines examines the real roots of modern skepticism toward the Church, from historical myths and media narratives to scandals, cultural shifts, and the emotional reactions that often replace careful reasoning.

Drawing from his article Distrust of the Church and the Malady of Suspicion, T.J. explores what these controversies really prove, what they don’t, and why understanding that distinction matters for anyone serious about truth, faith, and intellectual honesty.

Trust the Church

This episode challenges listeners to rethink assumptions, separate perception from reality, and confront one of the most common claims of our time: “You can’t trust the Church.”

Article on Stoking the Embers: "Distrust of the Church and the Melody of Suspicion

• (00:00) - Why Catholics Distrust the Church (and why it matters)
• (03:16) - From Inquisition Myths to Modern Scandals: How suspicion takes root
• (15:28) - COVID Pandemic Failures
• (23:25) - Clergy Scandal Bomb
• (33:58) - TJ's Reaction to the Scandal
• (40:25) - Catholic Media, Present Distrust
• (44:25) - "We Grade the Church; Rate the Pope"
• (52:49) - Trust the Church, Not the Outrage Machine (and why some voices mislead)
• (58:14) - Live Q&A: Catechism, scandals, trad debates & staying for the Eucharist
• (01:12:32) - Aftershow Deep Dive: What the Spanish Inquisition Really Was (myths vs facts) + wrap-up

A viral homily out of Ireland claimed that we don’t go to Mass to worship God — that it’s “about sharing a meal.” The clip sparked outrage, confusion, and debate.

In this episode of Fire Branded, TJ Haynes breaks down what was said, what the Church actually teaches about the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and why theological precision matters — especially from the pulpit.

Plus: a Moment of Truth on rising marriage prep numbers in Ireland and what they really mean, and a sharp look at several Protestant beliefs that actually depend on Sacred Tradition.

Catholic commentary at the point of impact. Bold. Clear. Unapologetic.

• (00:00) - Intro & What’s Coming Up: Viral Irish Homily + Catholic ‘Moment of Truth’
• (01:41) - “We Don’t Come to Mass to Worship”? Breaking Down the Claim (Worship, Eucharist, Passover)
• (14:04) - Communion on the Tongue vs in the Hand: ‘Feeding Animals’ Comment & Proper Disposition
• (18:21) - Moment of Truth: Pre‑Cana Boom vs. Marriage Endurance in Ireland
• (21:47) - The Forge FM Explained: From Stoking the Embers to Punchy Catholic Commentary
• (23:09) - Catholic Protestants & Sacred Tradition: Trinity, Canon, Sunday Worship, Infant Baptism + Final Send‑Off

I’ve been accused of lying for months — because I said the quiet part out loud. Are Protestants actually worshiping God at all?
In this episode of Fire Branded, I respond to accusations that I’m “lying” or committing theological fraud — not because what I said was false, but because I said something that carries consequences. (LINKS are at the bottom)

The controversy began with a simple explanation of worship. But once the implications were allowed to stand, the backlash followed. That reaction wasn’t surprising. It’s what happens when clarity replaces comfort.

This episode is about more than one argument or one debate. It’s about what happens when Christians avoid drawing lines, confuse categories, and substitute politeness for precision. It’s about why the Catholic Mass is not just another Sunday service, why catechesis has collapsed, and why calling everything “compassion” has left both faith and culture hollowed out.

This is not an attack. It’s a refusal to pretend confusion is harmless.

Follow me on X | Instagram | TikTok | FB | YouTube | Discord
My personal Newsletter - CatholicFirebrand.com

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Host's Response to Allegations
03:04 Exploring the Concept of Worship
14:36 Plastic Surgery and Gender Dysphoria Discussion
22:59 Gender: Its Origin and POWER
30:05 Protestantism vs. Catholicism
31:02 Is Protestantism Legitimate?
36:31 "Ladies Tone it Down"

LINKS

• ”Real Worship Video mentioned in the episode
• 'What is Worship? It isn't prayer: at Stoking the Embers
• "True Worship" on Stoking the Embers
• "The Beginning of the End for 'Gender care"?" here at Catholic Firebrand
• Article mentioned in this episode:
  Plastic Surgeons Group Recommends Pause in Gender Treatment of Minors

• (00:00) - Introduction and Host's Response to Allegations
• (03:04) - Exploring the Concept of Worship
• (14:36) - Plastic Surgery and Gender Dysphoria Discussion
• (22:59) - Gender: Its Origin and POWER
• (30:05) - Protestantism vs. Catholicism
• (31:02) - Is Protestantism Legitimate?
• (36:31) - "Ladies Tone it Down"