Catholic Views

Scott and Jackie Jucht have experienced some deeply spiritual events in their lives, and they’re here to tell us about a healing experience Scott had recently. Blessed Carlo Acutis plays a role, so don’t miss this beautiful story of suffering and healing.

Phillip Eisenberg is in the studio to discuss his time in seminary and life after discerning out. As a husband and father, Phillip credits the formation and structure of seminary life as a big part of the man he is now.

Fr. Tim Smith is in studio to tell us about his experience at Canon Law school and why his focus on social communications matters to all Catholics. Fr. Smith is always a fun guest, so grab a cup of coffee (or tea) and join us!

Big changes in life often bring turmoil and an unsettled feeling. This week, our guest Thomas Braga-Henebry tells us about his experiences of faith during huge changes in his life. His military experience will resonate with many listeners, so join us!

We're revisiting an earlier episode with Fr. Zach Schaefbauer this week:

What does it mean to be made in the image of God? And how would that have been understood in the ancient world? If you think this sounds boring and you’re not interested, you’ll be seriously missing out! Fr. Zach Schaefbauer is with us to help us understand what this really means, and if it’s true that we are made in the image of God, how do we apply that to our lives? Join us to find out!

Fr. Mark Lichter is back to tell us his story of how he got his call to the priesthood. We always love hearing about how God speaks to our priests, so join us for his story.

Do you think recreational marijuana is no big deal? Michael Pauley joins us to discuss the ballot measure regarding legalizing recreational marijuana in South Dakota. Why is it a bad thing? You’ll have to watch to find out.

Laura Bennett was once an evangelical Protestant, but now she is an on-fire Catholic! She’s here to tell us her conversion story and share some tips on how we can be more hospitable Catholics. Join us!

Fr. Mark Lichter joins us to share his experiences as a priest talking about abortion and helping those who have been harmed by it. He’s been talking about it for all 32 years of his priesthood, and he has some good advice about how we can change hearts on this issue. Spoiler alert: we can’t! What? Watch or listen to find out why.

Ines White from Vermillion tells us her harrowing life story and how she kept her faith in God after all the trauma she experienced. It’s a movie-worthy story that demonstrates how God never leaves us.

Catholic podcast guru Michael Gormley is here to talk about biblical manhood and why it matters right now. He’ll be in Sioux Falls for a men’s half-day retreat on Sept. 14. Join us to find out more!

Fr. Michael Kapperman and Dcn. Gerald Thornton stop by to share their experiences at the recent National Eucharistic Congress. They brought ALL of the seminarians for the diocese with them! Join us to hear how the road trip went and how these two men were impacted by the Lord’s presence in Indianapolis.

What does it mean to be made in the image of God? And how would that have been understood in the ancient world? If you think this sounds boring and you’re not interested, you’ll be seriously missing out! Fr. Zach Schaefbauer is with us to help us understand what this really means, and if it’s true that we are made in the image of God, how do we apply that to our lives? Join us to find out!

Did you get to attend the National Eucharistic Revival? Renae didn’t get to, but after hearing from three people from our diocese who did go, she has serious FOMO! Join us to hear the deep spiritual impact the Congress had on Fr. Jeff Norfolk, Dr. Chris Burgwald and Audrey Anderson. Unexpected graces abounded!

Al Costanzo joins us to help us understand art and beauty. What’s the difference between subjective and objective beauty? And how can you determine whether something is objectively beautiful? Listen in to find out!

Dr. Patti Giebink shares her story of going from abortion doctor for Planned Parenthood to pro-life advocate. As a doctor, she has a clear-headed approach to a sometimes complicated issue. Join us to hear her story.

Tim Moriarty joins Catholic Views to share with us a sneak peak at the upcoming film Roadmap to Reality: Carlo Acutis and our Digital Age. As the film’s director, Tim offers insight into Carlo’s life and why this movie is so important to our time. Millennials, this is your saint! Don’t miss this interview!

Dr. Chris Burgwald is on hand to help us understand two things: what is an apostolate and why in the world should I care? Because it’s what Jesus calls us to do! You’ll have to join us to get the whole story!

There’s nothing like a great reversion story! Kevin Tool from Redfield joins us to tell us how he found his way to rural South Dakota and back into the faith of his baptism. He went from a worldly kid to a faith-filled man.

Anna Speirs never thought the Catholic Church would become her home, but God has a way of surprising us. Hear her story of conversion and how her faith has impacted her marriage and family.

Deacon John Devlin and his wife Mary took some time with us to talk about their journey to the diaconate. Join us to find out how God has a bit of a sense of humor when you least expect it!

Ryan and Tara VandenBos are here to tell us how their entire family found their way home to the Catholic Church. Here’s a sneak peak: the Holy Spirit put specific people and places in their lives, and they were open to him. Join us to hear their journey into the Church.

Brett and Lydia Korn join Catholic Views to talk about Brett’s journey into the Catholic Church. Hard decisions had to be made, but they were they right ones that led Brett to the Eucharist, and later the two of them to a beautiful marriage. Hear their story of love and discovery.

Deacon Glenn Ridder is back and has brought his wife Colene with him to tell the story of his decision to become a deacon and how that has blessed their marriage and family. Join us to hear their story!

Allison Eckert joins Catholic Views to tell us about her reversion back to the Church. Many of us have loved ones who have fallen away. Hear what helped Allison find her way back home.

Bishop DeGrood joins us to celebrate Pentecost! We’ll talk about the Holy Spirit and how we might use his gifts in our lives. And he’ll give us an update on the Set Ablaze initiative in the diocese. Don’t miss this one!

Fr. Scott Traynor and Dr. Chris Burgwald join Catholic Views to discuss the family. Why does it matter? How is the family doing in our culture? And how can we encourage good family life? As the family goes, so goes the country, so take a bit of time to have a listen!

Aria Webster returns to share her experience of her first Confession and being received into the Church at Easter Vigil. Welcome home Aria!

Did you know the only approved Marian apparition sight in the U.S. is in Wisconsin? Fr. Joseph Aytona joins us to tell us all about this beautiful shrine that is relatively close by. I can personally attest to its beauty and the spiritual graces one can find there.

Did you know you can help increase vocations to the priesthood in our diocese? Fr. Michael Kapperman joins us to talk about what vocations are, how to discern one, and how we can help others discover what God is calling them to.

Michael Pauley from the South Dakota Catholic Conference is in studio after the 2024 South Dakota legislative session to discuss three of the bills of interest to Catholics. Join us on Catholic Views to find out if these bills passed and why they matter to the Church.

Archbishop Gullickson joins us to talk about one of the most important topics when it comes to our salvation: mercy. It’s Divine Mercy Sunday! Our Lord offers his mercy to us over and over. Are we ready to accept it?

How about another conversion story for Holy Week and Easter? Yes please! New Catholic Amber Adrian came into the Church last Easter and stopped into the studio to tell us her story of encounter with God and his Church. Welcome home Amber!

The Bishop Dudley Hospitality House is expanding! Executive Director Madeline Shields is here to give us an update on the work BDHH does and the new project that will expand opportunities for homeless families. They need your help, so join us to find out what you can do!

Deacon Glenn Ridder is back for part two of our conversation around life. We dive deeper into the question of what “health of the mother” can mean, what actually happens when there is a problem with the health of the mother, and more. Don’t miss it!

Deacon Glenn Ridder joins us to talk about what it’s like to be a doctor in today’s world, especially around the topics of life and contraception. This is a fascinating conversation that will continue next week, so don’t miss this one!

Have you ever wondered why in the world God would ask Abraham to sacrifice his only son? And why did Isaac go willingly? Me too! We invited Dr. Chris Burgwald into the studio to help walk us through this Bible story and understand how we can use it in our lives today.

Fr. Jim Bream joins us this week to tell us how he became a priest and what it has been like to be a priest for almost 60 years. He tells it like it is and still has great love for the people of the diocese.

If you love conversion stories, you’re going to love this week’s Catholic Views! Aria Webster is making her way into the Catholic Church and will be confirmed this Easter (2024). Join us to hear this young woman’s remarkable story of listening to God, even when it’s difficult.

Have you sometimes questioned those who have authority over you? I think we all have! This week, Dr. Chris Burgwald and Fr. Andrew Dickinson join Catholic Views to explain obedience and conscience and how the two work together. This is a can’t miss episode!

Earl Markley joins Catholic Views this week. You might know him if you’ve ever seen the Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit in our diocese. Earl shares what he’s seen as he has traveled the diocese with the exhibit and a bit about his pro-life work. He’s truly one of the nicest guys you’ll ever come across! Join us to get to know him.

The new president of the Catholic Community Foundation for Eastern South Dakota is here! If you don’t know Tony Menke, he tells us how he ended up here, what his faith journey has been like, and what his plans are for the future of the Foundation. He’s a transplant from Minnesota, but now a South Dakotan through and through with a beautiful faith he loves to share. Join us!

Fr. Scott Traynor is back, this time to talk about prayer. Seems simple, right? It is simple, but we usually underestimate its importance and power in our lives. Fr. Scott discusses what prayer is, why it matters and some types of prayer. And, he’s offering an awesome class on prayer that could change your life! Join us!

Mark Conzemius is retiring after almost 30 years as the president of the Catholic Community Foundation. He stopped by Catholic Views on his last day to share his thoughts and the many accomplishments that have helped build the Catholic Church in Eastern South Dakota. Join us to say goodbye!

Dr. Chris Burgwald opens the new year on Catholic Views by leading us on a deep dive of the Epiphany. This solemnity isn’t only about the three magi. Join us!

Fr. Scott Traynor is back, this time to talk about prayer. Seems simple, right? It is simple, but we usually underestimate its importance and power in our lives. Fr. Scott discusses what prayer is, why it matters and some types of prayer. And, he’s offering an awesome class on prayer that could change your life! Join us!

Fr. Mike Wensing stops by to discuss the Incarnation and Christmas. About midway through, he offers a thought from another priest about the Incarnation and the Eucharist that was a complete revelation! Join us to see if you catch it, too.

Fr. Scott Traynor and Dr. Chris Burgwald are back together to talk about how we can keep our peace in an often chaotic world. This episode is for everyone! So pop in the headphones and get ready to find a happier place.

Robyn Bruggeman is in the Catholic Views studio to talk about two Marian celebrations and a brand new podcast she is hosting! What’s the new podcast about? You’ll have to watch or listen to find out!

Dan Todd and his son Luke and step-son Nate join us to share Dan’s story of coming home to the Church and how Luke was inspired by his father’s transformation and the beauty of the Catholic faith to follow him just this year. It’s a powerful story of grace, patience and trust in God.

Fr. Zach Schaefbauer is here to give us some interesting background about Advent. How did it begin? Why do we do it? And the all-important question: how do we become holy? The answers may surprise you!

Mark Conzemius and Mark Christopher Lawrence join us to talk about this year’s Christmas at the Cathedral performances. What can we expect this year? The nativity through the eyes of one of the magi. Find out from the creator and the main actor how this story might unfold. Join us!

Jon Hansen is back on Catholic Views to talk about why we should decline to sign an abortion amendment petition circulating in our state. And, he answers an important question: can priests talk about political topics from the pulpit? The answer may surprise you!

Do you know what the St. Vincent de Paul Society does? Cathy Crisp and Brenda Wersal stop into the studio to share the amazing work done by this ministry and their campaign to build another thrift store in Sioux Falls. Yes, another thrift store! Woot! Join us to get to know this ministry.

Do you know what the St. Vincent de Paul Society does? Cathy Crisp and Brenda Wersal stop into the studio to share the amazing work done by this ministry and their campaign to build another thrift store in Sioux Falls. Yes, another thrift store! Woot! Join us to get to know this ministry.

Lois Heron and Kathy Kooima are in the Catholic Views studio to share specific ways to pray for our priests. These two ladies are passionate about covering our priests in prayers! You can get involved, so join us to learn more.

Are ghosts real and what does the Church say about it? Dr. Chris Burgwald joins the show for a strange conversation about the spirit world. It’s a wild ride and a bit eerie!

Catholic podcaster and writer Sonja Corbitt joins us to talk about her conversion from the Southern Baptist church to the Catholic Church. She’s coming to our diocese for a parish mission in Brandon! Have a listen and then join the mission Oct. 23-25.

Fr. Kapperman and Fr. Klein stop in the studio to give an update on the happenings at the Nazareth House. What’s this you ask? You’ll have to join us to find out how the diocese is serving our seminarians as they discern a call to the priesthood.

Brenda Mitzel joins us to talk about her new role as director of Catholic Schools for the diocese and her journey of faith. Like many of us, her story has many ups and downs, but she finally learned to give control to God.

Pat McCabe and Tom Johnson are here to tell us about the upcoming men’s retreat in October. These two have seen great fruits from attending the retreat over the years and invite all men in the diocese to consider joining them. And these two are kind of funny! To learn more about the retreat, visit holyspiritsf.org/mens-group.

Fr. Brian Eckrich takes us on a ride through time, more specifically, through chronos and kairos. Huh? It’s a deep conversation, but one that could change how you move through your days. Join us!

Bishop Don Kettler is back to share the story of how he got his call to the priesthood and what it was like to be a bishop. It’s always a good story when Bishop Kettler is in the house!

Catholic artist Al Costanzo joins Catholic Views to share his faith journey and how that faith has informed his work. His story is a perfect example of how missionary discipleship can lead to a conversion of heart. An episode not to be missed!

Bishop DeGrood is back with us to talk about the aspirational goals of the Set Ablaze pastoral planning process. Did you know there are 4 pillars that will guide planning for every pastorate? Join us to learn about the process!

Change is not easy for everyone. This week, we invited Emily Leedom back to Catholic Views to help us navigate change. Are you a Moses, an Aaron or one of the Israelites? Join us to find out and hear a few funny stories of how Emily and her family dealt with some difficult (and gross) situations.

Bishop Don Kettler joins Catholic Views for the first time to talk about the Transfiguration of our Lord. What happened and why? Find out what Bishop Kettler has to say!

Fr. Michael Kapperman stops in to discuss his new assignment and the three different titles within the role. As Chaplain of Bishop O’Gorman Junior High, he speaks on the impact Catholic schools are making on the youth in our diocese.

Fr. DeWayne Kayser is back to tell us how he received his call to the priesthood. He said it was a boring story, but trust us, it is not!

New mothers need all the help they can get. Sandy Petree started an apostolate called Under Mary’s Mantle specifically to help support, encourage and inspire mothers in their important vocation. She joins Catholic Views this week to tell us why she decided to finally listen to what God was asking her to do and how the Holy Spirit opened all the right doors.

Jeff and Lois Heron share the story of their conversion to the Catholic Church. This is no ordinary conversion story (is there an ordinary one?). Join us on Catholic Views to find out what makes their story unique!

What does a hospital chaplain do? Fr. DeWayne Kayser stopped in to tell us that and how the holy and vulnerable moments he witnesses make him a better priest. Join us!

Merlin and Hannah Huff wanted something more in their faith. When they opened their hearts to God, he brought them home to the Catholic Church. They tell their story of conversion and trust in God and in each other. An inspiring story not to be missed!

Dr. Ray Guarendi is here! Possibly the most well known Catholic psychologist joins Catholic Views to talk about his journey in the faith, family life and marriage. It’s a wild ride!

Fr. James Morgan and Dr. Jared Ostermann join Catholic Views to tell us about the Cathedral Inspires campaign, which will bring a new world-class organ to the Cathedral and renovate the original rectory. These two men couldn’t be more excited about what’s to come! Listen in to find out how you can be part of the future of the Cathedral of Saint Joseph.

Fr. Brian Eckrich is back to discuss a topic he recently addressed in a homily: the love of friendship. How does society get friendship wrong? And how should we understand this critical relationship in our lives? Join us to find out!

Do you or someone you know spend too much time gaming? Sara Vetch from The Lourdes Center is here to help us understand why this can be a problem in marriages and families and what can be done about it.

Do you love conversion stories? You don’t want to miss this one! Our new chancellor for the diocese, Thad Pals, took some time to let us get to know him better. I was blown away by the emotion behind his journey to entering the Catholic Church. Join us to hear his story.

Sara Hofflander, founder of Ecce Ancilla Domini and the Immaculata House in Sioux Falls, joins Catholic Views to discuss this new apostolate she formed in our diocese to help young women discern a call to the consecrated life. A fascinating and deep conversation about turning hearts to the Lord’s call.

Fr. Tony Klein is back after a long absence to tell us how his work as vocations advocate for the diocese is bearing great fruit. And he’ll tell us about his experiences at the Bishop’s Charity Fishing Tournament when he was still a seminarian. Join us!

Archbishop Thomas Gullickson is back to tell us how he got his call to the priesthood and how he went from a South Dakota parish priest to an apostolic nuncio. Join us!

Alison Conemac joins us for a powerful conversation about mercy and forgiveness. The quote she shares from the Catechism is reason enough to tune in!

Fr. Scott Traynor is back to offer his thoughts on the Resurrection and new life. He never disappoints, so buckle up for a deep dive into Easter!

Dr. Chris Burgwald walks us through some of the fascinating connections between the Old Testament and the Last Supper. Learning these Jewish roots of the Eucharist makes the experience and understanding of what Jesus did for us come alive in a brand new way!

Archbishop Thomas Gullickson joins us to discuss the ways we minimize sin, why we do it, and how we might stop doing it. Something we all need help with!

George Weigel, prolific Catholic author and biographer of Pope John Paul II, joins Catholic Views for the full half hour to tell us about his new book, To Sanctify the World: The vital legacy of Vatican II. Find out how the teachings of Vatican II can help us be better missionary disciples in our own diocese. A fascinating conversation with one of the premier Catholic thinkers of our time!

Michael Pauley joins us to share his role as an “ambassador of reason” during the 2023 South Dakota Legislative Session in Pierre. Find out what he does there and the impact of the Church in state government.

Fr. Chuck Cimpl is back to discuss how to be docile to God’s will in our lives. Simple, right? Not always, but Fr. Cimpl will help us understand how we might hear more clearly what God wants from us.

On the latest Catholic Views, Dr. Chris Burgwald helps us learn how to watch Christian media and ads, even if they don’t exactly mesh with Catholic teaching. We specifically review the He Gets Us ads and the series The Chosen. Join us!

Fr. Brian Eckrich stops by to help us get ready for Lent! Why do we fast and pray? Why 40 days? And an update on the Michelle Duppong documentary. Join us!

Fr. Chuck Cimpl stops by the Catholic Views studio to tell us how he got his call to the priesthood. He claims it’s a boring story, but does Fr. Cimpl ever tell a boring story? No! Join us to find out how this long-time priest of the diocese answered God’s call.

Join us for a new Biblical Bites and a rerun of episode 3 of this season.

South Dakota Representative for District 25 Jon Hansen joins Catholic Views to give us the details about a petition circulating that would put abortion on the South Dakota 2024 ballot and tell us why we shouldn’t sign it. This is a fight for unborn babies that we can’t ignore! Join us for a critical conversation.

Dr. Chris Burgwald and Casey Bassett join forces to tell us about the great doctor of the Church, St. Thomas Aquinas. His “Summa” is foundational to the Church, but it’s so hard to read! Not to worry, other writers help us understand it, and Casey offers a passionate account of why all Catholics, but especially men and fathers, should read Aquinas. Join us!

Deacon Omar Gutierrez joins Catholic Views to discuss the Catholic perspective and response to racism. His reasoned thinking helps clarify this contentious issue and may give you a new way to talk about it with people you know.

Emily Leedom joins Catholic Views to update us on how The Lourdes Center has been growing over the past year and to give us the details on the upcoming Gift of Hope event. Ben Fuller is the headliner for the show!

South Dakota Representative for District 25 Jon Hansen joins Catholic Views to give us the details about a petition to put abortion on the South Dakota 2024 ballot and tell us why we shouldn’t sign it. This is a fight for unborn babies that we can’t ignore! Join us for a critical conversation.

Two of our Lumen Christi missionaries stop by the Catholic Views studio to share the many fruits of their work in the diocese. What are they seeing with the youth? Great seeking and hope!

Merry Christmas! Our Savior has come into the world! The entire Communications team is here to celebrate together. Meet the new members of the team, join in a Christmas quiz, and hear some of the crew's favorite Christmas memories.

Meet Hector Bautista! The new guy in the Chancery is stopping by to tell us about himself and what his new roll is with the diocese. He has some very complimentary words about us, so join us to find out why he decided to move here from Las Vegas, in DECEMBER!