What does it mean to begin 2025 with a Holy Door, a hoodie, and a broken rib?
In this milestone 198th episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob celebrate the beginning of the Jubilee Year—a time of grace, mercy, and hope that does not disappoint (Romans 5:5). The conversation moves from Rome to Guadalupe, football playoffs to fractured ribs, weaving together the sacred and the silly. They reflect on Pope Francis’ call to joyful hope, the return of traditions at Notre Dame, and the invitation for all of us to enter more deeply into this holy season.
Of course, it wouldn’t be They That Hope without football talk, playful jabs, media hot takes, and an unexpected vacation miracle.
Highlighted Sections
(00:00) Hoodie Vibes and Holy Cards
Father Dave shows up relaxed in a Notre Dame sweatshirt as Deacon Bob thanks listeners for supporting CatholicPrayingCards.com. They joke about using rosary cards as poker chips—and offer a reminder to email prayer requests to hope@franciscan.edu.
(03:01) Football, Playoffs, and Penn State Picks
The Bucs are in the playoffs, Mike Evans hits 1,000 yards again, and college football turns upside down. The hosts make Super Bowl predictions and highlight Notre Dame’s big win over Georgia—and the return of pre-game Mass for the team.
(12:23) A Hug and a Broken Rib
Deacon Bob recounts a Christmas moment gone wrong (or so right?): his son’s heartfelt hug ends with a fractured rib. Luckily, a birthday trip to the Dominican Republic for his wife—complete with a surprise oceanfront villa—offers unexpected blessings and much-needed rest.
(15:55) SEEK, Silence, and Guadalupe
Father Dave shares moments from SEEK in Salt Lake City, where he spoke to thousands of young men about being “men after God’s heart.” He’s now off to Guadalupe, leading a Franciscan pilgrimage and inviting listeners to send prayer intentions for the journey.
(20:21) Jubilee Doors and A Pope Who Hopes
As the Jubilee Year begins, Father Dave reflects on seeing preparations in Rome and Pope Francis’ call to deeper joy and hope. They discuss shifting media attitudes toward the Pope, his bold defense of life, and what it means to live as hopeful people in the Church today.
Resources Mentioned
- Jubilee Year of Hope – Romans 5:5: “Hope does not disappoint.”
Join the fun and listen to more They That Hope episodes here.
