Expectations are a part of life. We place them upon ourselves, and others do likewise. But unfulfilled expectations – especially unreasonable ones – can lead to a lifetime of frustration, pain, guilt, shame and more. The world tell us that we should dress a certain way, act a certain way, look a certain way, think a certain way. We can too easily get caught up in thinking that’s who we should be. If you have ever had feelings that you just didn’t measure up to your peers or others’ expectations, let’s talk about it on Thursday.

Jesus’ mandate to go and make disciples of all nations is just as binding today as it was when he first gave it to his apostles prior to His ascension into heaven. That means all of us has a responsibility to try to draw people into a life of faith, a life of active participation in the Church. That’s not always easy, as there are countless forces at play mitigating against people coming into the Church. Sadly, in our day, there are gigantic hurdles that must be overcome, not the least of which is the diminishing moral authority of the Church due to the clergy sex abuse and cover up scandal. So, how do you witness to the people in your sphere of influence in such challenging times? Do you find this difficult to do at work, in public, even within your own family? Let’s talk about this on Tuesday.

It is undeniable (though some may wish to deny it) that Jesus Christ has had the most influence on mankind out of all those who have ever walked the face of the earth. The question we’ll be discussing – with your takes, of course – on Thursday is who do you feel has been the most influential human being other than Our Lord? Was it a profound spiritual leader like St. John Paul II? A rock bank like The Beatles? Maybe a cruel dictator like Adolph Hitler? Perhaps a great ancient Greek philosopher? What about Steve Jobs, whose legacy as a purveyor of modern technology has left his fingerprints on perhaps billions of lives? Give this some thought and join the conversation on Thursday.

There are countless frustrations in life. Surely, you’ve known your fair share of them. Why do persons and situations frustrate us? Are there some that get under your skin more than others? Frustrations are a great opportunity for us to grow in patience and virtue. Let’s talk about this on Tuesday.

It can happen anytime, anywhere, and in just about any circumstance of our lives. It’s called conflict. It’s usually a serious disagreement or argument, often a protracted one. You experience a clash of interests with another person or a group of people. Conflict can be personal, racial, class-based, political, religious – you name it. Some live for conflict. It seems to fuel who they are. Others avoid it at all cost, and for a variety of reasons. And, to be sure, there are many who fall between the two extremes. What about you? Call on Monday and share with Jerry and Debbie if you’re someone who seeks to do just about anything to avoid conflict and keep the peace. This will be another impactful conversation led by…you!

It’s hard to believe that it’s been eighteen years since the infamous 9/11 attacks on the United States. Virtually an entire generation is alive today who were not living at the time. Through memorials and other means, the memories of that fateful day have been kept alive all these years. On Wednesday, join Jerry and Debbie for a look back at where you were when these horrific events unfolded. Were you personally impacted by the loss of a loved one? Is the tragedy still vivid for you? Do you believe something like that could happen again? Let’s pray that it never does. And let’s have a heartfelt conversation about this on Wednesday.

The reception of Holy Communion is one of the most sacred and sublime moments in our lives as Catholic Christians. Most of us will be so blessed hundreds – if not thousands – of times during our lives. What do you do immediately after accepting Jesus Christ – body, blood, soul and divinity – into your own body and soul? Do you have a set of prayers that you pray? Do you spend some time in quiet thanksgiving? Are you praying that God will grant equal graces to someone you know who is in need of them? Be thinking and praying about this over the weekend, and call with your inspiring take on Monday’s program.

The Catholic Church has since her founding by Jesus Christ led the way in serving others and building up the faith of her members. Over the centuries, countless lay organizations have arisen to fill a variety of important needs. From The Knights of Columbus to The Legion of Mary, from The Society of St. Vincent de Paul to The Cursillo Movement, and many, many others. Each has its own distinct charism, one that draws people who share their passion and vision. What lay organizations have you been involved in over the course of your lifetime? What inspired you to participate in those organizations? How have you been blessed in the process of helping others? Let’s end the week with a lively conversation about some of these important organizations.

RESOURCE:
Retrouvaille – Help Our Marriage
Seven Sisters Apostolate

On Wednesday, we invited the ladies to call and share what they believe is the key to a woman’s heart. We also asked the gentlemen to call with their own take on that subject. Thursday, we’ll turn it around and ask the men to call and share what taking the lead in their faith and family lives looks like to them, and ask the ladies to share how they feel that should play out as well. We look forward to your calls at 833-288-EWTN!

Wow, what a response to this topic on Thursday. So much so, that you seem to want a part two on Friday. So, that’s what we have planned. If you missed Thursday’s show, it’s archived here on the website below. Give it a listen, and we welcome your take or insight on Friday.