Father Simon Says

Bible Study: (1:57)

Mt 7:6, 12-14

What is a hypocrite? 

Letters (2

(25:00) - John 19:24, "In order that this passage might be fulfilled;" what does that mean?  (36:23) - Receiving Communion Under Both Species (40:33) - Beautiful Novus Ordo masses  (45:33) - Spiritual bouquet for Sr. Edith  (47:31) - The Transfiguration 

Word of the Day: Terebinth (34:00)

Bible Study: (1:42)

Acts 6:8-15

Father shares his theory about Act and the Gospel of Luke 

Jn 6:22-29

What is the real work of God? 

Letters 

(19:09) – How is David after God’s own heart?  (28:44) – Communion service 

Word of the Day: Crown (31:36)

Callers

(33:11) – Jesus descended into hell, could you explain?   (37:42) – How the average Jew could’ve possibly known that every sacrifice and liturgical ceremony pointed to Christ? (45:09) – Could you explain Numbers 22: 21-39 to me?  (48:58) – My father recently passed away, and he wasn’t Christian. Should I have baptized him?

Original Air Date – April 24, 2023

Bible Study: (1:53)

-Daily Readings

Acts 5:34-42 Jn 6:1-15

-Letters (20:27)

Should we associate with Christians who are not living out their faith When did the power of the apostles to heal end? Son wants to marry a Hindu woman what should we do? Is there any point in payer?

-Word of the Day (34:08) 

Worship

-Phones: 

Keri – How do you find forgiveness for something you’ve done that caused someone’s death.  How do you forgive yourself? Maro – Question about the word ‘cousin’ and relationship to Mary.  Could you explain the word ‘cousin’ Vanessa – About today’s Gospel making him king, was that going to be by force? Greg – When you’re trying to qualify for a plenary indulgence, and free of mortal sin.  Would just going to Confession at Church qualify for going to confession?

 

Original Air Date: April 21, 2023

Bible Study: (1:50)

The Gospel of John

We should have a relationship with the Holy Spirit  What does it mean to be born of wind and water

Letters

(18:04) – Listener is worried about getting his car broken into (22:23) – What is the scriptural basis for the Epiclesis? (25:07) – I’m nervous about my friend’s marriage (31:29) – Anything in the Talmud about one who hangs from the tree is cursed 

Word of the Day: Ration (36:53)

Callers 

(39:19) – Attending a Wedding Reception of a non-Catholic who may be divorced. Can I go? (44:22) – It’s good to have regrets in life  (45:31) – How do I explain Confession, Purgatory, and change to the Bible?

Original Air Date: April 20, 2023

Bible Study: (2:26)

Acts 5:17-26

Father explains the religious dynamics in ancient Israel

Jn 3:16-21

The price that God paid for our lives 

Letters

(23:22) – What lessons do we learn from the sufferings of the death of God?  (29:01) – Do you need to be Catholic to receive the anointing of the sick? (30:52) – Jesus says he died for the sins of many  (31:32) – Will all Baptized go to heaven? 

Word of the Day: Evil (32:50)

Callers

(34:32) –  Why the Catholic Church says bad things about the devil, when I recently met someone from the Church of Satan, and they told me they do nice things? (38:59) – About today’s reading and John 3:16, and the use of the word ‘might’ what was the original word? (40:56) – How do you listen for God’s answer? (48:29) – Do you have to be baptized to go to heaven?

Original Air Date: April 19, 2023

Bible Study: (2:02)

Acts 4:32-37

Father explains the governmental structure in Acts 

Jn 3:7b-15

What does it mean to be born from above? 

Letters (21:40)

Judas & Fulton Sheen’s theory   Who was Thomas’ twin?  Jesus dying for many vs all

Word of the Day: Wind & Spirit (32:12)

Callers (35:22)

Was the Holy Spirit with Mary all the time or was it come and go,. like at Annunciation and at Pentecost?  When they stoned Stephen, why didn’t they ask Pilate to approve, like when Jesus was killed? The Church is not in touch of reality, and I’m becoming Catholic, but I need to go through an annulment and the paperwork and other interviews are hard to do?  Divine Mercy Sunday, if you go to confession and communion and pray for Holy Father, remission of all sins?  Doesn’t confession take your sins away anyway? Good Friday at Church, shouldn’t there be more quiet?  I was hearing the choir practicing?

Original Air Date: April 18, 2023

Bible Study: (1:43)

Acts 4:23-31

Father explains some of the meanings of the word ‘God’

Jn 3:1-8

What does it mean to be born from above?  What is religious consensus 

Letters

(27:59) – What does it mean to cast lots?  (31:30) – Listener forgave her husband for cheating on her

Word of the Day: Rabim (Many)

Callers 

(39:00) – 1 and 2 Maccabees, when was it accepted as canonical before the Council of Trent? (40:52) – Question about the guard’s ear who was cut off and Jesus healing the ear, where in the Bible? (42:28) – Who is most responsible for the humiliation and assaulting of Jesus.  Was it the Romans? (46:36) – Comment on being saved by salvation alone and about yesterday’s 2nd reading? (49:23) – What does he mean by original tongues, like Aramaic and also the diff b/w ‘reborn’ and ‘born above’?

Original Air Date: April 17, 2023

Bible Study: (1:52)

Acts 4:1-12

Peter understands the prophecy from Psalm 188

Jn 21:1-14

Jesus' fraternal care for John 

Letters

(23:53) - Father discussing the meaning of Ex 4:23 & Moses' circumcision  (27:11) - Triduum Question  (29:55) - Listener laughed at a FSS promo (30:54) - Can I take notes during the homily?  (31:46) - Listener is upset that Fr. Simon used the term 'woke' 

Word of the Day: Touch (36:14)

Callers 

(38:39) - How would you look in a resurrected body or how would you look when you get to heaven, are you young again? (41:44) - Commentary about what you saw at the Holy Sepulchre and at the very base is 'Adam's Skull'  What do you think? (44:02) - About the synoptic Gospels, did they get the writings from the people who where there? (47:30) - Why does the Catholic Church use the term Easter instead of Resurrection Sunday?

Original Air Date: April 14, 2024

Bible Study: (1:55)

Acts 3:11-26

Father explains some of the Kosher laws regarding pork

Letters

(19:47) – what is meant by ‘Novus Ordo’ by the book?  https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_const_19631204_sacrosanctum-concilium_en.html https://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/the-mass/general-instruction-of-the-roman-missal (23:30) – Brenda responds to Father Simon’s critique of the Sermon on the Mount (27:54) - Comment about the Novus Ordo and TLM

Word of the Day: Ghost (31:21)

Callers 

(34:04) – Why were the separation of garments at resurrection? (41:40) – Was Moses circumcised and how old was Moses when he was picked up as a baby? (45:06) – With Mass was in Latin, it was part of universal Church, everybody spoke  same language and that made Church Universal.   (48:42) – ‘Today you will be with me in paradise’ and how could he be in paradise’ if he descended to the dead?

Original Air Date: April 13, 2023

Bible Study: (1:54)

Acts 3:1-10

Why are bells significant? 

Lk 24:13-35

Who was Cleopas? 

Letters

(24:04) – When did the presentation happen?  (28:34) – Transfiguration, Moses, and Elijah (31:13) – What is meant by the communion of saints? 

Word of the Day: Foolish (34:41

Callers 

(36:27) – How do I tell my parents that I’m considering the priesthood?  My dad doesn’t really practice the faith and my mom might not either. (41:55) – My son is an Atheist. How should I evangelize him?  (47:17) – Do Protestants give as much precedence to Good Friday as much as Catholics do, relative to the Resurrections? (49:56) – Why don’t Jews believe in the Messiah? 

Original Air Date: April 12, 2023

Bible Study: (1:51)

Acts 2:36-41

Father takes issue with words added to the text of today’s reading  Father discusses the public event of Jesus’ death

Letters

(24:08) – Can cousins get married in the Catholic Church?  (28:46) – Does Jesus give the Sermon to the crowds?  (30:11) – Why were statues covered in the parish before Holy Week? 

Word of the Day: Twisted generation (40:03)

Callers 

(41:26) – Is it okay to bring food into the church when Our Lord is not present in the tabernacle? (42:39) – Clarification on Luke 24:34 about when Jesus appeared to Simon? (44:16) – Peter went over to the tomb with the ‘other one’.  Who is the other one and why not named? (46:13) – My cousin said, The Pope said that Latin Mass can’t be held in church anymore, and be in gym. Could you clarify? (48:34) – On the road to Emmaus, they didn’t recognize Jesus, but recognized him in the breaking of the bread?  But I’m wondering why they didn’t see the wounds on his hands?

Original Air Date: April 11, 2023

Bible Study: (2:20)

Acts 2:14, 22-33

Peter’s confidence in Christ’s Resurrection  Father asks how we explain the Resurrection

Letters

(21:54) – Listener corrects Father Simon’s comments on Dr. Brant Pitre  (28:29) – Question about what Mary deserves  (30:18) – I like the movie, “Is Genesis history?” (32:06) – I heard if you die on good Friday you go straight to 

Word of the Day: Pentecost (34:01)

Callers 

(37:11) – 2 Questions: 1) Why would Romans want Jesus’ blood-stained garments. 2) When they removed Jesus from the cross, wouldn’t that have made the Jews ritually impure?  (39:07) – How can the Shroud include Jesus’ face?  (42:05) – Did Jesus appear to Mary his Mother? Why wasn’t it mentioned in the Bible? (47:56) – Why was the Devil in the Garden of Eden?  (49:46) – St. Faustina’s vision of Purgatory 

Original Air Date: April 10, 2023

Bible Study: (2:25)

Psalm 136: Jesus doesn't finish the Last Supper; why? 

Heb 4:14-16; 5:7-9

The one day the Father says no to Jesus

Letters

(20:02) - Where do the stations come from?  (26:56) - Should I go to my friend's Easter service at a Baptist Church? 

Word of the Day: Eye-Witness (33:59)

Callers 

(38:17) - Judas and Purgatory, if there was anyone who saw Judas hang herself and if not, could he have asked God to forgive him? (41:02) - Why on Palm Sunday, they read the passion? (43:47) - Luke 2356:20 - : 31, could you interpret that verse for me about wood being green and dry? (45:37) - About confession;  Why as Catholics, we need to go to confession, to be forgiven of our sins, when God shed his blood for us? 

Bible Study: (2:58)

Ex 12:1-8, 11-14

Father discusses the timeline of Last Supper

Jn 13:1-15

Why are the disciples shocked at Jesus?

Letters

(22:04) - Question about going to a traditional baptism  (25:24) - Importance of beauty in Churches (27:01) - Judas and the morsel (30:00) - A habit of vice is overcome with a habit of virtue

Word of the Day : Had never been 'born' (32:38)

Callers 

(35:01) - My son and his family have started attending the Pre Vatican II TLM Mass.  It's really causing resentment.  Could you help me? (41:44) - There are many Catholic Churches that don't say the prayer to St. Michael?  Why is that? (47:05) - Was the apostle Paul ever ordained a priest? (47:52) - Is it okay to go to the gym on Holy Saturday?

Original Air Date: April 6, 2023

Bible Study: (1:59)

Is 50:4-9a

Why is the word ‘no’ so important? 

Mt 26:14-25

Why is the word ‘no’ so important? 

Letters

(22:12) – Do the angels feel pain?  (23:32) – Why do Catholics pray to Mary and believe in the Assumption?  (26:51) – What is expected of me when a loved one dies?  (29:43) – my girlfriend was baptized in the Ethiopian orthodox Church and receives communion, is that OK? 

Word of the Day: HESED (34:29)

Callers 

(37:49) – First Fridays, you’re supposed to go to communion on First Friday, does it start all over? (42:38) – My friend invited me to a Passover service, at a reformed Jewish temple.  Is it okay to go? (45:27) – I’m 71 years old, Catholic, but I don’t recall ever doing confirmation.  Does it make sense to do it now?

Original Air Date: March 27, 2024

Bible Study (1:40)

Is 49:1-6

 A light to the nations! 

Jn 13:21-33, 36-38

Did Jesus kneel before Judas? 

Letters

(18:18) – Is Mary of Bethany Mary of Magdalene?  (20:53) – Did Jesus die after three or six hours on the cross?  (22:58) – what’s the story about how Fr. Simon and his Rabbi friend met

Word of the Day: Recline (29:41)
Callers

(32:51) – If Judas was put there for the betrayal of Christ Was he truly a traitor? (35:07) – When Jesus Gave Judas the bread did the devil enter Judas? (37:21) – Why were there two verses cut out of today’s Gospel? (41:31) – Did God give Moses more than 10 commandments? (44:50) – When we pray alone, can we use me/my instead of us/we? (46:01) – Should you go to confession even if you don’t have anything to confess? (47:45) – Can father explain the sense of the faithful? 

Original Air Date: April 4, 2023

Bible Study: (3:26)

Father discusses ancient calendar issues 

Jn 12:1-11

Father discusses why Churches are the palaces of the poor. 

Letters

(21:05) – Palm procession question – Did Jesus ride an ass and a colt?  (25:48) – Custom to cover images (28:43) – God’s justice in the OT 

Word of the Day: Nard (33:48)

Callers 

(37:02) – Paul knew very little bit about Jesus’ teaching, and nothing about his miracles, could you comment on that? (42:19)- My brother and his wife are going to the Holy Land on their own in a couple weeks and for only three days.  Recommendations on what to see? (44:43) – Is Baptism necessary for salvation?  (47:40) – Is there a connection b/w today’s Gospel and the washing of the Apostle’s feet? (48:52) – In the synoptic Gospels and in Gethsemane, Jesus says ‘Pray to not be put to the test’  What is he referring to that?

Today's encore show is from April 03, 2023

Jer 20:10-13

Why does God allow for temptation? 

Jn 10:31-42

Why does Jesus call himself the Son of God? 

Letters

(19:55) – I’m uncomfortable when the priest washes parishioner’s feet (21:53) – Are there giants in the Old Testament?   (24:29) – Do kids need a saint name for Baptism?  (25:20) – Why don’t we say Amen in the Fatima prayer?  (26:21) – What does Seraph mean?  (27:41) – I heard that St. Faustina said that “at the time of my death, I am my own apostle.” 

Word of the Day: Perturbed (29:58)

Caller 

(33:35) – My daughter lives in a rural area, and there’s no nearby Catholic school, is it okay for her daughter to go to a Baptist school? (36:41) – The priest yelled at me for not going to mass every week, which is hard for my condition.  What do you think? (40:06) – When did the slapping for confirmation begin and end? (40:40) – Jesus tends to double down on certain statements in the Gospels such as about the Eucharist and that he’s the Son of God.  What do you think about his doubling down Father? (42:33) – When they say God made us in his image, and he’s a spirit, how does that work? (44:32) – Is it a sin to eat out on a Sunday because you’re making other people work? (45:54) – How do you respond to a son who thinks God is angry? 

Original Air Date: March 29, 2024

Bible Study: (1:42)

Father begins with a discussion of yesterday’s Gospel

Gn 17:3-9

What are the works of Abraham?

Letters

(19:05) – Jesus and the Seraph comment (22:07) – Michael accuses Fr. Simon of superscessionism  (25:09) – What does it mean to pray ‘Lamb of God?’ (28:04) – Evidence of Peter’s existence

Word of the Day: I AM (33:01)

Callers 

(37:59) – Are only the Catholics going to heaven?  What about non-Catholics, like the Buddhists? (41:22) – Could you explain the unbloodied sacrifice of the mass? (44:00) – Is it a sin to name a child with a demonic name?  (46:33) – How do you receive the graces of Divine Mercy?

Original Air Date: March 30, 2023

Bible Study: (1:56)

Dn 3:14-20, 91-92, 95

Father explains the meaning of today's names & the Power of Fatima 

Letters 

(16:43) - Deliverance ministry at a non-Catholic Church (25:21) - Can I write in my journal during adoration?  (26:27) - What is sin? 

Word of the Day (30:54)

Callers

(32:50) - Could I get good interpretation of the Rich Man and the Lazarus? (39:06) - Why are angels saints but Old Testament prophets are not saints? (41:56) - What is a good book about Mary?  Fisherman's Friend cough drops, is good for you (44:11) - How did the bleeding in the garden for Jesus, affect his wardrobe and his face (47:28) - All of our priests were out of town, so there was a communion service led by a woman, was that licit?

Bible Study: (2:22)

Dn 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 or 13:41c-62

Father discuses the longest reading of the year

Jn 8:1-11

Would Jesus ever condemn anyone? 

Sunday's Readings (16:25)Hebrews: Loud Crys and Tears 
John's Gospel: Why was Jesus so upset? 

Letters: 

(29:09) - Fr.'s show is the highlight of my day (30:26) - New American Standard Bible - Thoughts?  (32:41) - Does modesty vary by culture? 

Word of the Day: Susanna (33:01)
Callers:

(33:28) - Can a baptized Catholic go to confession if they have not received any of the other sacraments? (34:29) - John 12:30 and 33. Does the same Bible verse that pertains to Jesus and his suffering relate to us? (38:06) - Can you recommend a verse in the bible on healing? (41:50) - What do you about a child, born/baptized Catholic, but thinks is not Catholic anymore?   (43:59) - When someone dies. How long should we pray for them? (46:12) - When we do pass away where will we be that same day and if we are in purgatory/heaven will we have a body the right away?

Bible Study: (2:18)

Wis 2:1a, 12-22

What does it mean to be judged debased? 

Jn 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

Did Jesus lie?

Letters: 

(19:53) - On worrying  (21:24) - Jesus as the 'Amen'  (25:19) - Translation Questions (28:43) - How did John become a saint? 

Word of the Day: Brokenhearted 
Callers

(38:57)  - What is the age requirements for abstaining from meat on Fridays of Lent? (43:00) - Nephew didn't go through annulment process, as he reconciled w/his wife and they are now living together. But they LEGALLY divorced.  What does Fr. Simon think? (45:39) - Cups of wine at the seder meal? They drink the four cups? Could you clarify?

Bible Study: (1:59)

Ex 32:7-14

God does not need to know what's in my heart; I need to know it

Jn 5:31-47

What does it mean to be saved? 

Letters

(19:32) - Catholic Study Bible and the Wall of Jericho  (28:45) - Who was John the Baptist Baptizing? 

Word of the Day: Depraved

Caller:

(36:41) - Question about the intercessory prayer - if I don't like one of the prayers is it a sin not to respond? (40:16) - Who is qualified to give the homily? My daughter went to a church where a woman gave the homily (43:02) - Was Moses talking to God the Father or God the Son in today's readings? (45:18) - When can you actually sit down after you receive communion? Comment: Why so many woman in OT named Mary

Bible Study: (1:57)

Is 49:8-15

Father explains prophecy, the number of Isaiah and the Didache 

Jn 5:17-30

Father discusses the constant creation of God 

Letters

(22:12) - Doctrine vs dogma (25:45) - Mystery of Faith - why don't we say "body and blood"?  (27:09) -Can I receive communion at an Orthodox Church?  (29:05) - Why would God require animal sacrifice? 

Word of the Day: Mercy (35:18)
Callers

(38:42) - How does the exorcist know that the devil isn't lying? Especially about his name? (42:07) - Luke 21:34 can you translate this? Why did he say sit instead of dwell or something else? (44:04) - What do purple, white, and black represent in the bible?

Bible Study: (1:50)

Ez 47:1-9, 12

Father explains the Temple 

Jn 5:1-16

Father discusses the importance of reading what's actually in Scripture

Letters

(21:57) - Father recommends a Bible https://www.amazon.com/Catholic-Study-Bible-Donald-Senior/dp/0190267232 (24:47) - Picture Bible (27:56) - Was there more than one Lazarus? 

Word of the Day: Bethesda (30:32)
Callers

(35:23) - When Jesus tells the man - go and sin no more - It makes it seem like Jesus thinks the reason he was sick was because he did something wrong. Is this right? (40:06) - I know that Jesus was fully God and Fully man. Now that he is in Heaven is he still fully God and man or is he just God now? (41:54) - Why does Jesus always tell people not to tell others about the miracles he's done? (43:08) - I went to a funeral at an SSPX church and they had communion there. Would it be bad to take communion there or was it only for people who go to that church?

Bible Study: (1:50)

Is 65:17-21

Father proposes a solution to the situation in the Holy Land

Eph 5:8-14

God's gift of grace & faith

Letters

(22:54) - Polycarp and John the Apostle  (24:06) - Our Lady pictured with the Rosary  (27:55) - Can husbands make suggestive comments to his wife?  (31:55) - Definition of a parable 

Word of the Day: Worry (36:00)
Callers:

(38:43) - When the apostles ask what their reward will be and Jesus says you will have kingdoms of your own, what will those kingdoms look like? (39:53) -We were both divorced and got remarried to each other and had a daughter. Is this a grave sin and how does it affect our daughter? (41:53) - Do you know of a Bible that as the English and Spanish right next to each other? (44:42) - Did Mary have any siblings and are Guardian angels created when a baby is conceived?  (47:00) -When Elizabeth greets Mary why did she say fruit of your womb and not child

Bible Study: (1:56)

Hos 14:2-10

Father discusses the issues with Biblical translation 

Mk 12:28-34

Father tells us what the first commandment actually is & what it means to love 

Letters

(19:18) - Sin to eat meat on Friday? (22:43) - The Kingdom of God  (24:33) - Eastern Church sacraments 

Word of the Day: Scribe & Commandment (32:43)

Callers: 

(36:49) - When BVM appeared at Lourdes, and why would the BVM pray the rosary about herself? (41:23) - Is fear of hell a good reason to be Christian? (43:24) - Differences between baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit? (46:24) - What happened to Pontius Pilate after the Passion?

Bible Study: (2:13)

Jer 7:23-28

The nation that does not listen...Father describes the jealousy of God

Letters:

Molten gods (22:55) - Bonhoeffer & cheap grace  (24:35) - Galatians & abortion  (26:48) - Tribes of Israel  (28:24) - Last supper - where do we get the instructions to recreate the Mass? 

Word of the Day: You Beelzebub I say, Beelzebul, let's call the whole thing off

Callers:

(34:27) - Is it right for the priest to say the divine mercy before the prayer of the faithful? (38:52) - When did Baptism become part of our religion? I know John the Baptist but I don't understand when change really happened. (40:26) - Other than Catholics, do other people need to get annulments to get divorced?  (43:03) - In the Hail Holy Queen - do we say in this vale of tears or this valley of tears? (44:27) - I had a question about what a priest said the other day. He said if you had meat this Friday you can't take communion until you go to confession. Is this right?

Bible Study: (2:41) 

Dt 4:1, 5-9

Father explains 

Mt 5:17-19

Father again discusses the royal nature of God & what it means to break commandments 

Letters:

(18:54) - Can I receive communion if you haven't been married in the Church?  (31:15) - Orthodox Christians and praying for the dead

Word of the Day: Smallest part of the law (34:00)

Callers: 

(36:22) - Importance of the 10 Commandments  (40:24) - I'd like to comment on the state of the Church (42:23) - I was wondering about the charismatic movement? And what do people mean when they talk about the charismatic mass? (46:22) - Where in the bible does it say that abortion is a sin? (47:36) - Do you have to have your first communion to go to confession?

Bible Study: (2:27)

Dn 3:25, 34-43

Father discusses doing the red and saying the black & our feelings at mass

Mt 18:21-35

Why was the servant unable to forgive? 

Letters:

(29:02) - Where do we get translations of the Gospel?  (32:25) - 'Only begotten Son' - is that the same way of saying 'the same nature of God?'

Word of the Day: Covenant (30:00) 
Callers: 

(34:25) - A member of my parish owns a restaurant and is hosting a psychic, like having a psychic event.  Any obligation to approach the parishioner or the pastor? (37:19) - How do you pray for people in purgatory? (39:24) - I have a question about my mother-in-law who was catholic and married a man who was divorced. Is there a mortal sin issue there? (45:06) - Is it alright to join two different parishes? (47:00) - I had throat cancer and how I have lots of mucus - I was told I can use salt water to fix it - I've started using holy salt. Is this alright to do?

Bible Study: (1:57)

2 Kgs 5:1-15ab

Sometimes God asks something simple

Lk 4:24-30

Jesus was not accepted by his relatives, either

Father also discusses the 10 Commandments from yesterday's Gospel (15:43)

Letters

(24:14) - Gloria during Lent (25:50) - Basilica, Church, Cathedral 

Word of the Day: Aram (30:34)

Callers: 

(34:44) - My friend is a hermit and took her vows and is in the process of having the blessed sacrament in her home. Is that allowed? AND in Genesis - God created the earth but it doesn't mention anything about other planets or the universe (39:23) - Usually I get a penance after confession but I went to a new priest this time and he didn't give me one. What should I do. Don't I need one? (41:03) - I was told at the Last Supper there were more people than just the 12. Is that true? AND does Jesus love some people more than others? (47:17) - Genesis 9:4-5 God told Noah not to eat the blood of the animal - the life of the animal - it seems like its not just a Jewish command. Why are Christians not following proper bleeding customs anymore?

Bible Study: (1:52)

Gn 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a

The Bible shows us that our heroes or fallible 

Mt 21:33-43, 45-46

Who was the Gospel of John written for? 

Letters:

(24:01) - Who anointed Jesus?  (26:54) - What happens if the priest barely uses the Confiteor 

Word of the Day: Tunic (32:52)

Callers: 

(36:18) - When Moses led everyone out of Egypt, were there people who wanted to stay? (39:06) - It says that Joseph did not have marital relations with Mary until after Jesus was born. Is Mary actually a virgin? (42:02) - Can you cleanse your house with sage? (44:54) - At St. Lamberts we still say the St. Michael prayer and the Hail Mary after every mass! (46:52)  Why is it Roman Catholic Church when the Romans were the ones that killed him? AND why was only Thomas allowed to touch Jesus' wounds but everyone else was told to wait?

Bible Study: (1:43)

Jer 17:5-10

What is Jeremiah upset about? 

Lk 16:19-31

Why is today's Gospel so funny? 

Letters:

(21:05) - God is in the business of covenants  (25:23) - Ablution cup (27:24) - Lord have mercy 3x (29:07) - Requiem Mass story

Word of the Day: MERIT (31:40)
Callers: 

(37:54) - Not going to anyone about Jesus, but how could you square that with going to counselors? (40:24) - In the Diary of Faustina, Jesus says at the hour 'I am my own apostle'. Where is that in the diary? (44:05) - I met Fr. Simon like three decades ago! (45:23) - About the cleansing of the temple and stop making a market of my father's place, and den of thieves?  Which is more accurate?

Bible Study: (2:22)

Jer 18:18-20

Father explains how language influences perception 

Mt 20:17-28

Father explains (again!) what the Kingdom really is

Letters:

(21:19) - In OT, why does require animal sacrifice and then say 'I desire mercy not sacrifice?' Wouldn't poor people rather have food rather than beautiful Churches?  (31:01) - Kyrie eléison question  (31:56) - Mass for non-Catholics? 

Word of the Day: Many (34:43)
Callers:

(38:43) - If the creed is the list of all the things we believe then why is the real presence not listed? (42:41) - I've had many miracles happen to me and I just wanted to let people know that miracles are still happening. (43:31) - The God of the old and new testament seem like two different people. Can you explain why this is? (48:05) - Why are there not as many Monsignors?  

Bible Study: (2:04)

Is 1:10, 16-20

What's the meaning of sacrifice? 

Mt 23:1-12

Father talks about external observances of the law 

Letters:

(27:21) - Jesus' human qualities  (29:02) - Jesus as the 'Amen'

Word of the Day: Eucharist (20:20)

Callers: 

(38:48) - When Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene, He said do to Touch him. Is that evidence for the priest being the only ones who should handle the body of Christ? (41:53) - Sometimes when I am praying I think I use a foreign accent. Should I correct that or not worry about it? (43:03) - Do the Protestants also wear the tassels?  (46:31) - Who is Sirach? (48:29) - Moses, the plagues, and the pharaoh question

Bible Study: (2:21)

Dn 9:4b-10

Why is the face such an interesting word? 

Lk 6:36-38

Father explains judgement! 

Mk 9:2-10

Father explains the dynamics of yesterday's Gospel

Letters: 

(21:18)  - Devil and the Son of Man (22:53) - Tourette syndrome  (29:06) - Spiritual healing

Word of the Day: Angel (32:02)

Callers

(33:21) - In many languages there are two verbs for - to know vs English only has one.  (36:09)- Was St. Anthony a Catholic? And where was the first Catholic monastery built? (37:52) - Because Jesus is Mary's son does it refer to Mary when we call him Son of Man?  (39:23) - Tourette's is not demonic. I've grown up with someone who had it and one of my children had it. (43:09) - What is the best response as a Catholic community to the shootings that happened? (47:24) - During the Last Supper when he says he won't drink of the fruit of the wine until he's in Heaven again but then and he drinks right before he dies? It seems contradictory.

Bible Study: (2:07)

Ez 18:21-28

Being a Tzadik

Mt 5:20-26

Father describes what it means to be liable to judgement 

Letters

(21:15) - There was a priest saddened that he wasn't asked to celebrate a wedding mass

(25:08) - Should I fast based on the clock? 

(26:00) - We used to empty the holy water during Lent? 

(27:04) - Respect during Latin Mass

(30:57) - Why would Satan want to kill Jesus? 

Word of the Day: Polycarp (35:19)

Callers: 

(38:23) -Today's first reading from Ezekiel seems contradictory

(41:32) - When we pray for something, and don't get that specific thing, but we get something else, how do we know what we get?

(43:23) - Why we offer up Christ back up to Jesus during communion

(45:58) - Saying the rosary during Lent, is it Glorious on Sundays still?  

(47:34) - How should I prepare to read The Dogma of Hell?

Bible Study: (1:56)

1 Pt 5:1-4

Father discusses authority 

Mt 16:13-19

Father discusses Peter as Rock

Letters

(21:53) - Question about the breviary  (26:22) - "You are Christ," says St. Peter (28:24) - Twelve Springs of Moses  (30:53) - Why are some Jews not against abortion? 

Word of the Day: Chair (35:18)

Callers:

(36:04) -Have there been instances of people seeing relatives who have died, i.e. ghosts?  What do you think? (39:06) - Anecdotes related to Roman Catholic authority vs. Eastern Authority in the matter of exorcism and demonic deliverance? (40:53)- I would like to ask about confession & sexual sin  (44:30) - Question about music during mass.  About Lamb of God, phrases are sometime taken out?  What do you think? (47:30) - Is Fr. Simon part Jewish? I'm a Messianic Jew.  He has these Jewish expressions and it's b/c of him I'm listening to Relevant

Bible Study: (1:49)

Lk 11:29-32

What is the sign of Jonah? 

Letters: 

(17:29) - Liturgical abuse (22:54) - Raising Catholic Kids  (27:47) - Does each priest use his own missal?  (28:58) - Is it ok to work at a place with Pride gear? 

Word of the Day: Nobles (37:53)

Callers: 

(39:05) - Is it alright if I kneel during the offertory? (41:23) - During Lent do we only pray the sorrowful mysteries when we pray the rosary?  (43:01) - Did anyone ever plan to rebuild the temple in Israel? (45:43) - Why were the people in the OT so weird? 

Bible Study: (2:04)

Is 55:10-11

Why do be bother to pray & doing God's Will

Mt 6:7-15

What does it mean that God is Father? 

Letters:

(22:26) - Altar Stone questions (24:53) - Why is Jesus unbloodied on the crucifix?  (29:33) - Crucifix on the altar  (30:24) - What's the deal with Holy Water? 

Word of the Day: Debtors (34:03)

Callers:

(37:33) -What is our duty to try and become one as God commanded and unite the church? (43:32) - The cloth (shroud)  is called an antimension - it's meant to be used for mass if they were not able to celebrate on a consecrated alter. (45:43) - My church asked me to be the beer cart lady at the fish fry and I have a problems with this. Can I get your thoughts? (47:47) - My brother has been thinking about joining the free masons -What should I say? 

Bible Study: (6:16)

Lv 19:1-2, 11-18

What does it mean to say "I am"? Father discusses the Holy Name of God. 

Letters: 

(24:33) - Problem with modern translation of the Bible  (25:55) - Should I have a closed or an open one? (26:55) - Who baptized John the Baptist?  (31:24) - Left-leg genuflect once in a while? Is that OK?  (32:59) - Did Jesus actually fast 40 days? 

Word of the Day: Young Goat! (35:33)

Callers: 

(38:45) - This weekend you mentioned that Mary was the first person of the Catholic Church. Can you clarify what that means? (41:23) - 1 Samuel 16:14 - an evil spirit of the Lord troubled him. I don't understand this part.  (44:55) -Why are there Saints in the New Testament but not the old? (46:15) - 1 Peter - He also went to preach to the spirits in prison. - who was he and who was in prison? (48:15) - I've had 2 hip replacements and I was wondering about how the church feels about that? I plan to be cremated but I'm worried that my hips won't be part of me when I die.

The Purpose of Fasting (2:41)

Letters:

(21:55) - Pro-choice vs. pro-life  (22:38) - Good commentary on the Book of Revelation? (27:29) - The meaning of the term 'Lord'

Word of the Day: Work & worship (31:55)

Callers: 

(35:27) - Why do we use low-Gluten hosts?  (38:23) - Where in the Bible does it say that Hell is a place after death? (40:39) - When we pass, do we go straight to judgement or do we have to wait for awhile?  (43:02) - Are we all considered the elect? (47:03) - What is the real reason Jesus came to earth? Was it to save sinners or establish a church?

Bible Study: (2:01)

Dt 30:15-20

Father discusses the importance of law

Letters:

(21:54) - Atonement - Did God punish Jesus for our sins?  (25:55) - I can see why someone would want to go to a Protestant church! 

Word of the Day: The cross (33:20)

Callers:

(37:24) - Those commandments steer us in the direction we need to go; we should be grateful for them. Where would we be without them? (41:43) - Where do Catholics get offering up our pains to God let our suffering be in union with him? Some people at my Bible study think it won't help us. (45:24) - Is it a sin to ignore a mass that is playing on the radio? (46:52) - How did Noah know what food was clean and unclean?

Bible Study: (1:53)

2 Cor 5:20—6:2

What does true righteousness mean? 

Mt 6:1-6, 16-18

What's the point of fasting? 

Letters:

(21:40) - Epistle and Encyclical - what's the difference?  (24:00) - Why did Jesus descend into hell?  (26:10) - When bad things happen to good people - is God not perfect? 

Word of the Day: Alms (34:14)

Callers:

(36:31) - How do I have any hope of getting to Heaven?  (43:05) - Did Adam and Eve have children in the garden before they were forced to leave?  (45:23) - What is the significance of ashes during Lent?

Bible Study: (1:44)

Jas 1:12-18

Father discusses if God tempts us! 

Letters: 

(21:42) - The Flaming Sword and Beatific Vision  (26:55) - 'Faithless sinner' - should it be faithful sinner?  (28:42) - Seal of Solomon vs. Star of David

Word of the Day: LOGOS (32:02)

Callers: 

(36:53) - What is the difference between the different denominations? Don't we all have the same God?  (42:53) - Someone told me that they believe in karma. I didn't know how to respond. (46:43) - My husband was a book collector. Found 'From manger to throne.' Do you know it?  (49:25) - I have a question about Taylor Swift. Is it a sin to talk bad about a celebrity? 

Bible Study: (2:25)

Jas 1:1-11 Father Simon illuminates this passage from the writings of Saint James

Letters: (21:13)

Father reads a letter about receiving communion after missing Church on Sunday. Father answers an interesting question about Jewelry being buried with people. Father Answers why Jesus took so long to heal the daughter of the Greek woman. Why in the Old Testament is a group of people guilty of a sin from someone else?

Word of the Day: (36:20)

Embrimaomai

Phones: (43:12)

Anita - I am having some health problems and am nearing the end of my life and I'm scared. I need your advice. Margaret - I have a question about the Old Testament - Why were people allowed to get divorced back then but not in the new testament.

Bible Study: (1:44)

1 Kgs 11:4-13

Who are you serving? 

Mk 7:24-30

Did Jesus actually insult the woman in today's reading? 

Letters: 

(20:39) - Refusal to heal a child? 

Word of the Day: Liturgy

Callers: 

(38:58) - Cain being the father of cities; is Cain the father of all people too? (42:34) - Question about Guardian Angels and praying to them. My children had a question that I can't answer. (43:58) - I'm confused. Heard story about how maybe Mary lets people into heaven, when Jesus doesn't. Could you explain?

Bible Study: (1:20)

1 Kgs 10:1-10

Father explains Sheba & unclean food

Letters:

(20:49) - Anointing of the sick & excommunication 

Word of the Day: Talent (30:22)

Callers: 

(33:28) - Thank Fr. Simon, giving me some help for a speech I did. Speech went well, 100%. (39:57) - My son is protestant and debated about the seven books in the Bible that are 'missing'. Could you explain for me? (43:16) -  Main crux, why is Peter's profession more important than Nathaniel? (46:03) - My son has met a woman who is Hebrew, and he's questioning things now?

Bible Study: (2:31)

1 Kgs 8:22-23, 27-30

Doing more than the law requires 

Mk 7:1-13

Father tells a story about passing down tradition

Letters:

(22:42) - Fr. Simon does too much commentary about the Jewish faith (27:58) - Irregular marriage and parish ministry 

Word of Day: Qorbon

Callers: 

(39:19) - Counting years in Genesis (42:58) - If a person is baptized Catholic, could they renounce their faith?

Bible Study: (1:37)

1 Kgs 8:1-7, 9-13

What does this reading have to do with Cain and Abel? 

MK 6:53-56

What was the mission of Jesus? 

Letters:

(21:29) - The Lighting of Candles  (27:57) - Confession for a fallen away Catholic 

Word of the Day: Run around (33:00)

Callers: 

(39:57) - Will purgatory be a time for non-Christians to accept Jesus?  (43:07) - What is the 'Good News' that Jesus and John the Baptist are preaching? (45:21) - Why did Jesus rename the Apostles? (46:37) - What does he think of the New American Bible?

Bible Study: (2:20)

Lk 2:22-40

Father explains the Feast of the Presentation 

Letters:

(18:28) - The New Israel  (23:51) - The simplicity of the Missionaries of Charity (24:51) - Angels & Visions   (26:56) - Lives of the saints  (27:56) - Anointing of the sick

Word of the Day: Unclean (33:13)

Callers

(37:34) - Was Jesus intolerant?   (41:13) - What is the meaning of 'The Communion of Saints' ? (43:03) - What do you think about this day being the day Joseph was given the title from 'Father' from the Heavenly Father? (44:43) - Question about the five shekels and the first born child? (46:44) - Question about relics, I'm totally confused by them, especially 2nd and 3rd class

Bible Study: (1:48)

1 Kgs 2:1-4, 10-12

Are we sure that David is a man after God's own heart??

Mk 6:7-13

Why does Jesus tell them to only bring staff and sandals 

Letters: 

(21:23) - Did Mary have other children?  (24:25) - Forgiveness vs. being taken advantage of (30:46) - Holy God we praise thy name at Mass

Word of the Day: Leave 

Callers: 

(38:44) - On Sunday, Jesus drove the demon out and he also drove out a demon out of the swine. Why doesn't he just destroy the demon? (38:44) - Jesus commanding apostles to heal the sick and cast out demons.  Is that just for priests or also lay people? (45:25) - Christ performing a miracle and he told people, don't tell anybody. I think he said that because he wanted to show some humility.  What do you think about that? (48:11) -  When the disciples recognized him, they must've seen the wounds of the nails during the Road to Emmaus  What do you think about that? (50:06) - Could you clarify the two saint James apostles?

Bible Study: (1:54)

MK 6:1-6Did Jesus have brothers and sister? Father delves into who the relatives of Jesus were. 2 Sm 24:2, 9-17 Father unpacks this bible passage by looking at earlier verses in the book.

 

Letters: (23:18)

Father answers questions about fat in the bible, yes that right, fat.  Father gets stumped by an email!!! Check out what that question was! What is the meaning for the phrase “brother’s keeper” mean in the bible?

 

Word of the Day: (33:32)

Carpenter

 

Phones: (35:07)

Grace - Should we read the NLT (New Living Translation) Bible?  I'm confused.  We're using it in church formation. Lettie - Regarding the story of David and 1 Samuel 19: 18 and Ecstasy Rebecca - Right before the Israelites left Egypt and Pharaoh being punished.  Why would God harden Pharaoh’s heart? Therese - The priest will sit down during communion and let the distributors distribute communion, what do you think? Ben - Question about salvation regarding works/grace.  Only salvation through grace, no works that protestants say.  Could you explain 'works'?

Bible Study: (1:48)

2 Sm18:9-10, 14b, 24-25a, 30–19:3

Father discusses the beauty and difficulty of David's story

Mk 5:21-43

Why didn't Jesus tell the woman 'not to tell anyone?'

Letters:

(21:34) - Prodigal son & David  (23:35) - Can I change godparents?  (24:40) - Why was Mary worried when Jesus was lost?  (28:35) - Biblical texts & Anglican liturgy 

Word of the Day: Liturgy (35:02)

Callers:

(40:10) - Would it be accurate to say that St. Paul and the early church, didn't have a concept of the Trinity or of the Divinity of Christ? (43:24) - Regarding St. Gertrude prayer to those in purgatory. Could I still pray it? (46:24) - Sunday reading on St. Paul, how it's better to be unmarried?  Could you clarify? 

Bible Study: (2:01)

2 Sm 15:13-14, 30; 

Why is David's repentance important? 

Mk 5:1-20

Father offers an insight about who owned the swine in today's reading

Letters:

(23:27) - Did Father Simon say John the Baptist had no sin?  (25:03) - Catholic Bible vs. Protestant Bible (29:15) - For the kingdom the power and the glory - where does that come from? (31:18) - I've heard people discuss faith as a crutch (32:25) - John the Baptist 

Word of the Day: Legion & informant (34:27)

Callers: 

(36:44) - Could I take a cough drop before the Eucharist? (39:32) - A mediation I had regarding Uriah the Hittite, and does one man's sin, and does that relate to the Lord's passion? What's your thought? (41:27) - Matthew 23:9 and what do you think about it? (45:27) - Is my marriage valid? 

Bible Study: (2:16)

2 Tm 1:1-8

Who were Timothy and Titus?  What does it mean to receive a spirit of power? 

Mk 4:26-34

How do we understand Kingdom? 

Letters

(23:05) -What's heaven like?  (28:07) - Alternative health cleanse  (29:15) - Preparation of the priests  

Word of the Day: Kerygma & Kingdom of God has drawn near upon you! (34:17)

Callers

(36:54) - Gospel of John Ch 1 - What does the original Greek translation really mean was God or was a God? (43:25) - What happens to those who leave the Catholic Church to be protestant? (49:17) - I was raised Jehovah's but been Catholic for over 40 years.  I have their old Bible and their translation still says 'was God'

Bible Study: (1:52)

'Acts 22:3-16

Did Paul invent Greco-Roman-Judeo-Christian society? 

Letters:

(23:55) - Protecting widows and orphans  (27:57) - Standing for the Gospel (30:56) - Who is Paul writing to? 

Word of the Day: Goads (35:41)

Callers: 

(38:51) - The road Paul waked it still as is and the government won't allow anyone to build there. (38:41) - What is the point of a second reading then? (40:35) - Jesus was fully human - so did he go through the terrible 2's? (41:45) - Question on the word begotten - can you clarify what this means? (49:15) - This is the day the Lord has made - wanting to know more about the future is a sin. Is it a sin to have someone try to interpret what signs that God is trying to send you.

Bible Study: (3:00)

2 Sm 7:4-17

How is David after God's own heart? 

Mk 4:1-20

Why did Jesus speak in parables? 

Letters: 

(18:01) - St. Maximilian Kolbe & the Mass (20:28) - Conversion to the faith  (22:40) - Scripture 1 Cor 6:9 question (24:59) - Atheism  (28:06) - Prosperity Gospel or Gospel of poverty

Word of the Day: LOGOS 

Callers:

(36:11) - How to deal w/someone at parish who is distributing holy communion to shut ins.  He is keeping communion over night.  What to do about this? (39:06) - When we pray, we ask God to do something for us.  I'm confused b/c I always pray for conversion of my children.   (41:27) - Question on today's reading - the mystery of the Kingdom of God -  that they may look and not see?  Could you explain? (43:58) -My parents are divorced and were married through church.  My mom was remarried again civilly and she still takes communion.  How to talk to mom about this? CCC #1457 (46:05) - How to connect more w/St. Paul. I read his epistles, and it doesn't resonate with me.  (47:57) - My son has a major leadership position in the DNC.  Is he living an immoral life having this position, b/c of the DNC on abortion?

Bible Study: (2:15)

2 Sm 6:12b-15, 17-19

Why did Saul lose the crown? 

Letters:

(20:20) - Is it sinful to only eat the Eucharist?  (24:28) - Why would all Jerusalem be troubled by Jesus' birth?  (27:23) - Why does Father mention Jews so often?  (30:35) - I have an in-law who is high all the time.

Word of the Day: Raisin cake (33:32)

Callers:

(36:05) - How come Jonathan had to die for the sins of his father? (38:46) - Easter Sunday 1st Sunday after the first full moon after the Vernal Equinox. What do you think about that Father? (40:43) - I'm in the process of converting, and a friend was talking about determinism and pre determinism.  Could you explain and help me out? (44:12) - Lumen Gentium says the Church is the New Israel? (48:08) - I've been doing Bible Study in the book of Samuel and I'm enjoying what Fr. Simon's doing. (49:24) - Question about the unforgivable sin of blasphemy and the Holy Spirit.  Could you explain?

Bible Study: (3:37)

2 Sm 5:1-7, 10

Father explains the high drama of Samuel

Mk 3:22-30

How did Jesus defeat the devil? 

Letters

(21:25) - How is Easter chosen?  (25:25) - What is meditation? Catechism 2705  (27:21) - No one who is born of God practices sin?  (32:43)  - UFO's and the Catholic Church

Word of the Day: Blasphemy (36:45)

Callers:

(40:49) - Is the apostasy related to the coming of Jesus Christ?  (43:02) -  Why is abortion considered ex communication, but not any other type of murder? (44:02) - How to respond to someone who said 'The bible doesn't say, 'when I'm hungry, you put me on a bus, when I was a stranger, you shipped me off from political gain'. (47:01) - Is it okay to attend a protestant services? (50:31) - If I came across a Samaritan, what would their job title be?

Bible Study: (2:23)

1 Sm 24:3-21

Father explains why this reading would make a great TV show

Letters:

(20:10) - Salvation vs. redemption  (24:39) - End of life option act

Word of the Day: Mary (33:45)

Callers: 

(37:03) - Is Sacred Scripture only the NT or entire Bible? (37:46) - Question about Isaac, Isaac almost doesn't do anything.  God calls him home. He's the only patriarch that doesn't do anything.  (40:17) - In Genesis, places people come to an agreement, like in Genesis 24: 2-3.  Could you explain? (42:11) - How could God help me navigate these professional dilemmas in my work as a medical social worker (46:34) - What is the definition of Gospel?  (50:22) - During consecration, does Jesus go through pain of the cross?

Bible Study: (1:54)

1 Sm 18:6-9; 19:1-7

Father zooms on to look at the whole chapter of today's reading

Mk 3:7-12

Why does God give us commandments? 

Letters: 

(20:32) - Father discusses the business of religion (27:00) - Did Peter dismiss the idea of the hierarchy?  (33:54) - Judges & disciples 

Word of the Day: Sistrum (37:46)

Callers: 

(40:36) - I understand the importance of Jesus, he's become almost an idol. Could you explain.   (47:25) - There's a historical record of popes who descended from Peter, but are there records of lineages from the other apostles?

St. Anthony (2:35)

1 Sm 17:32-33, 37, 40-51

Father explains his issues with translations

Mk 3:1-6

What's wrong with curing on the Sabbath? 

Letters:

(22:51) - Did the BVM know that Jesus would rise from the dead?  (26:20) - Wise men & shepherds  (29:27) - Church's thoughts on miscarriage 

Word of the Day: Scimitar (34:05)

Callers: 

(36:59) - The word 'Techton' means what stonemason; what do you think? (38:53) - My Jewish brother and sisters believe in abortion is that the baby in the womb is not a human being unless that baby is 7 weeks old out of womb.  Are you aware of that Father? (42:04) - 1 Peter 4:18, "If the righteous man is scarcely saved,
where will the impious and sinner appear." (47:51) - My daughter does yoga; what should we do about that?

Bible Study: (5:23)

1 Sm 16:1-13

What is a seer? 

Mk 2:23-28

Why is today's Gospel controversial? 

Letters: 

(22:20) - Valid Baptism (29:26) - OT ending

Word of the Day: Obey (34:35)

Callers: 

(39:48) - Can you explain this passage - St. Joseph not knowing what to do when he found out that Mary was pregnant. (45:59) - Is it a wholesome or charitable act to pray for others who are not believers to join in the resurrection?

Bible Study: (1:52)

1 Sm 15:16-23

Why is this one of the most important Chapters in the bible? 

Letters

(21:54) - Holy Spirit and Jewish people (27:57) - I baptized my grandson (31:38) - Would Jesus have trimmed his beard?  (33:48) - Do other religions do exorcisms? 

Word of the Day: Redemption (37:31)

Callers: 

(41:44)-  How we explain to non-believers the slaughter of the Amalekites? (45:26) - What is the difference b/w Gnostic Gospels and the Bible Gospels? (47:36) -  What is the difference between 'Hallowed be thy name' and 'Holy is Your Name' in the Our Father? (49:48) - When is the last time God (not Jesus Christ), spoke directly to a prophet?

Bible Study: (2:17)

Hebrews 4:1-5, 11

Who were the first converts to Christianity? 

Mk 2:1-12

What is the scandal from today’s Gospel?

Letters

(21:24) - What does it mean 'to be born from above?'

Word of the Day: Heart (33:00)

Callers

(36:07) - I'm a convert from Southern Baptist and I'm having trouble with Mary.  (49:01) - Would God tell immortal souls, 'They shall surely die?'

Original Air Date: January 13, 2023

Bible Study: (1:55)

1 Sm 4:1-11

Father discusses superstitious religion & living in sin

Mk 1:40-45

Father discusses Jesus' rage 

Letters:

(20:39) - Justifying bad behavior (25:13) - Death & assurance of salvation 

Word of the Day: Revealed his presence (33:04)

Callers: 

(37:42) - What a lay apostle is? (40:37) - Is it okay to pray to the BVM in front of the monstrance in adoration? (42:35) - The Icon that was weeping,  and I think the icon was weeping b/c of what's going to happen in society, what do you think about that? (44:00) - Fr. Simon, what do you think about the word 'Thy' from the Our Father and 'Vouchsafe' in the St. Andrew's Novena. (48:40) - what do you think about working off your purgatory time now? (50:29) - We don't hear about the apostles families after Christ, what happened?

Bible Study: (2:22)

1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20

How should we interact with those who left the faith? 

Mk 1:29-39

If Jesus needed to pray, how much more do we need to pray? 

Letters: 

(21:17) - What does it mean to ask God to remember?  (23:14) - Our 19 year old Son became an atheist  (26:53) - The breath of God & Hope (30:34) - Should we avoid rainbow clothing? 

Word of the Day: Behold (34:52)

Callers: 

(37:03) - What is the meaning of the Christmas tree and why did God make Angels? (39:06) - My daughter who is in a same sex relationship did IVF. Her partner is now pregnant. What is my obligation to this child?  (43:37) - It says in the Bible that God knows how many hairs you have on your head- was your soul always there and if so where was it hanging out? (47:15) - Is it alright to donate to America Needs Fatima? (49:44) - What are you thoughts on 'All men will be saved?'

Bible Study: (1:51)

1 Sm 1:9-20

What was Shiloh? 

Mk 1:21-28

Why is authority important?

Letters:

(20:32) - Clarification about Baptism in the Holy Spirit  (24:54) - Large families  (28:15) - Why did the demons go to the swine?  (30:55) - Should I care about Biblical authorship? 

Word of the Day: Word (35:08)

Callers: 

(40:02) - Could you recommend some books about love?  https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_ben-xvi_enc_20051225_deus-caritas-est.html (41:22) - Question about the Son of Man and Book of Daniel (43:37) - How is the Visitation to Elizabeth where she received the Holy Spirit different than Pentecost? (45:44) - If a priest decided to leave the priesthood and gets married, does he still have the faculties of the priesthood, even though he's not practicing being a priest? (48:38) - Question about bells during mass and it's use in exorcisms. Are they used to repel evil too?

Bible Study: (2:02)

Is 42:1-4, 6-7

Father discusses religious pluralism & American religious history 

Letters

(23:007) - Has Father ever heard the confession of a non-Catholic? (27:12) - Seal of confession (30:14) - Loud children in mass (31:42) - Psalm 81 verses 

Word of the Day: Baptism (35:23)

Callers: 

(38:36) - After the Our Father, we say 'thine is the kingdom' and the comparison to the 'Glory Be'? (42:47) - I'm a mom of 9 children and I feel like I'm surrounded by helicopter parents.  I just want to know what he thinks about parents who are trying their best and manage everything.

Bible Study: (2:02)

1 Jn 3:11-21

Why wasn't Cain's sacrifice acceptable to God? 

Jn 1:43-51

Father shares a story from Eastern Christianity that helps illuminate today's Gospel

Letters: 

(17:55) - Psalm 25 - Remember your tender mercies and your loving kindness (21:53) - Was Mary Magdalene at the cross?  (24:27) - Destroying a Satanic display; is that OK?  (28:16) - Seminarians need to sit in the pews! 

Word of the Day: Hates (32:53)

Callers: 

(35:58) - Friend married a protestant. He is Catholic. Can he receive communion? (39:13) - What does the last paragraph from today's gospel Mean? (43:33) - Luke CH2: 39-40 - Never talks about going to Egypt. Why not? (49:16) - If 2 Catholic soldiers in a war kill each other, does the absolution they may have received allow them to get to heaven?

1 Jn 3:7-10 (2:05) 

What is an apocalypse?  What does it mean that 'No one who is begotten by God commits sin' 

Letters: (2:05) 

Word of the Day: Teacher (35:12) 

Callers:  

(38:31) - I am planning on doing the first Fridays. If I can't receive communion on that day can I receive it later and be okay?  (40:05) - Did Hagar from the bible have saving faith?  (42:05) - Does 'Pondered in her heart' also refer to the same meaning as 'behold'?  (44:06) - Did Jesus eat himself during the last supper when he consecrated the bread and wine?  (45:05) - Do the Gnostic Gospels mention who Jesus is?  (48:20) - My friend is not baptized and is in a bad spot in life. can I baptize him? 

1 JN 2:29–3:6 &Jn 1:29-34

Father explains the Temple, John the Evangelist & John the Baptist

Letters:

(20:46) - the Holy Spirit devotion 

Word of the Day: Devil 

Callers:

(25:26) - At Mass for Christmas Eve and the Priest 'sang oh come let us adore him' during the consecration. Did that make the Eucharist invalid? (27:05) - Our pastor doesn't want us to bow at the tabernacle but at the altar. Is that okay? (29:12) - Is sending kids to catholic school considered tithing? (30:48) - When did the Holy Family flee to Egypt & when did they get back to Jerusalem? (32:50) - Could you talk about the people who returned to Nazareth from Babylon? (36:13) - Thank you Father for all you explanations!

*note: we lost audio with Fr. during the letter segment

Bible Study: (2:16)

1 JN 2:22-28

Father discusses the power of the Rosary & the anti-Christ

Jn 1:19-28

Father discusses if John's Gospel & Acts of the Apostles are antisemitic 

Letters:

(23:45) - Question about Amos 3:6 (30:55) - Pictures of Old Cathedral & the new one in Nicaragua  (32:47) - I didn't get married in the Catholic Church; what should I do? 

Word of the Day: Master (37:42)

Callers: 

(42:10) - Is the serpent in the garden of Eden the same as Satan? (44:02) - Can Guardian Angels be with people in purgatory or do they leave when you die? (46:17) - I live in a two family home. the neighbors side of the house has a lot of offensive images. What should I do about his situation? (48:18) - Ephesians 3:6 and Galatians 3:29 - Can you explain these passages?

Bible Study: (2:03)

Jgs 6:11-24a

Father, as promised, discusses what a terebinth is. 

Mt 19:23-30

When do we come to Gd? 

Letters

(19:31) - The devil's fall and the Garden of Eden (24:03) - Can a teen become Catholic w/out his parents permission?  (28:33) - Priest purifying his hands

Word of the Day: Queen Mother (31:09)

Callers 

(34:16) - my conversion story!  (36:59) - When are we judged?  (39:22) - What exactly becomes the Body/Blood of Christ?  Is it everything on the altar or only in the chalice? (43:02)- If people who lived saintly lives, are awarded a crown in heaven? (44:22) - Transfiguration and why Father feels Jesus met w/Moses/Elijah, as opposed to Abraham/David? (46:43) - Question about the idea of dying to one self and if Jesus being fully God and fully man, was he not subject to that? (50:08) - Liturgy and keeping the faith 

Original Air Date: 8/22/23

Bible Study: (2:17)

Father shares his theory about the letter to the Romans

Letters

(26:09) - Acts 8:39 - what does snatched mean?  (28:58) - What does the Church teach about the Rapture?  (31:31) - Pregnancy prayer request  (32:19) - Can you go to heaven without confession? 

Word of the Day: Hour (36:56)

Callers 

(41:06) - I betrayed another person and now she says she doesn't believe in God. What should I do? (43:41) - Is profanity a sin? I went to an Assyrian church and it was beautiful, but was it a legitimate Catholic Church (47:21) - Can I pray to the Guardian angels of the unborn child? (48:25) - Why was Paul sent to the Gentiles? He seemed better with the Jews.

Original Air Date: 6/29/23

Bible Study: (1:55)

Gn 15:1-12, 17-18

Why does God ask Abram to count the stars? 

Mt 7:15-20

What does it mean to know them by their fruit? 

Letter: 

(18:41) - We have so much artificial light in the world (22:38) - Why on Good Friday is the main crucifix covered?  (24:42) - What should we be asking for when we say 'Give us this day our daily bread'? Bible Recommendation & Hope to Die by Scott Hahn  https://www.amazon.com/New-Testament-Richmond-Lattimore/dp/0865475245/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30U1Y1EJC79CF&keywords=richmond+lattimore+new+testament&qid=1683904036&s=books&sprefix=richmond+lattimore+new+testament%2Cstripbooks%2C163&sr=1-1 (37:13) - Why was the serpent allowed in the garden? (41:58) - Acts 5 & Money  (48:00) - I think there is too much politics in radio

Word of the Day: (44:41)

Original Air Date: 6/28/23

Bible Study: (1:57)

Mt 7:6, 12-14

What is a hypocrite? 

Letters

(25:15) - John 19:24, "In order that this passage might be fulfilled;" what does that mean?  (36:53) - Receiving Communion Under Both Species (41:03) - Beautiful Novus Ordo masses  (46:03) - Spiritual bouquet for Sr. Edith  (47:51) - The Transfiguration 

Word of the Day: Terebinth (34:29)

Original Air Date: 6/27/23

Bible Study: (1:46)

Gn 12:1-9

Father explains if Abraham was a Jew or not

Mt 7:1-5

Father explains Greek translation & and the problem that today's passage causes 

Letters 

(21:28) - The purpose of circumcision (24:27) - Martin Luther and indulgences  (29:24) - Marriage Convalidation  (33:38) - Refining Gold & When We're Ready to See God (42:47) - Are there myths in the Bible?  (48:48) - The voice of the Holy Spirit 

Original Air Date: 6/28/23

Bible Study: (2:06)

2 Cor 11:18, 21-30

Should we find old letters of St. Paul? 

Word of the Day: (36:00)

Letters

(17:55) Do you think that the priest wants to deny me communion  (23:23) Why was Jesus perturbed?  (26:05) I'm tempted to write in cursive (27:43) My idea of a fundamentalist  (37:48) Eating meat during Fridays in Lent (38:50) Freemason curse question  (43:32) Read the black, do the red (50:13) Forgiveness of Mortal sin

Original Air Date: 6/27/23

Bible Study: (1:50)

2 Cor 11:1-11

Why is God jealous? 

Mt 6:7-15

What does it mean to babble like the pagans? 

Word of the Day: Plundered (39:25)

Letters

(24:14) What is meant by Son of Man in Jn 9:35 (25:45) Are the three temptations of Christ related to three gifts of the Magi?  (28:55) Did Joseph or Mary have any temptations?  (30:13) Where's the Last Supper take place?  (30:57) Did Mary have free will to be the Theotokos?  (33:57) I disagree with Fr. Simon's opinion on marriage reception (43:06) Father corrects the record on Catholic Bible Translations  (47:19) Tiny drop of water at mass

Original Air Date: 6/22/23 

Bible Study: (2:29)

Lk 1:46-56

Did Mary paraphrase the song of Hannah? 

Letters:

(20:51) - I can't find Saturday morning mass! (24:03) - Woman deaconess  (27:36) - Mass, Faith, & Marriage

Word of the Day: To Jump up with joy (35:16)

Callers:

(38:47) - Could you clarify about children taking care of their parents during old age? (40:58) - how do we raise our children well (43:41) - Do you know anything about America Needs Fatima? (47:53) - You shall call him Emmanuel and You shall call him Jesus?  Could you explain?

Bible Study: (1:59)

Sg 2:8-14

Why is the Song of Songs so odd? 

Lk 1:39-45

Father explains that this reading is all about rejoicing 

Letters:

(17:54) - Rabbi David writes in about St. Joseph  (22:07) - Holy Day of Obligation or Love?  (29:09) - Priest and parishioner distractions  (29:47) - Did Judas know that Jesus would be crucified?  (31:12) - Does Eucharist mean good-gift or thanksgiving? 

Word of the Day: Do not grow slack (33:40)

Callers:

(35:27) - Can Satan say the name 'YHWH'? (38:30) - Can angels would learn from us?   (41:25) - What is the Best Bible to get somebody, who's just starting to read it? (42:57) - Why is there so much controversy between Latin Mass and English Mass?

Bible Study: (1:53)

Is 7:10-14

Father explains the name Emmanuel

Lk 1:26-38

Why was Mary told to not be afraid? 

Letters:

(22:59) - What is apostacy?  (23:57) - Meditations on St. Joseph  (26:33) - Concerts at Church (28:11) - Naming our angel

Word of the Day: Overshadowed (32:14)

Callers:

(36:58) - On Joseph, Fr. Don Calloway's the Consecration of Joseph and the three different theories of this text Joseph divorcing.   (41:37) - Are aborted children received into heaven (45:14) - What does it exactly mean 'Communion of Saints?' (47:38) - I would like to comment on St. Augustine & Gabriel 

Bible Study: (2:10)

Jgs 13:2-7, 24-25a

Father discusses the Philistines & what a Nazirite vow is 

Lk 1:5-25

Father discusses the date of Jesus' birth

Letters

(23:19) - Deuterocanonical books (30:17) - Incense & Zechariah

Word of the Day: Elijah (32:37)

Callers: 

(35:38) - I'm in the process of RCIA, but still attending protestant Church and mass simultaneously. The pastor talked about how Melchizedek was Jesus.   Could you explain? (39:06) - Question about a non-binary God?  I'm arguing about this with some siblings (42:21) - Best way to learn about mortal sin? (43:32) - I love Fr. Simon educates his listeners through a historical way! (45:23) - Question about Tithing, where in the Bible is it? (47:15) - Friend getting his Masters in Catholic Biblical Studies and he needs to choose between Biblical Greek or Hebrew.  What should he do?

Bible Study: (2:22)

Jer 23:5-8

Father explains how preserving the liturgy helped inform the identity of the Jews

Mt 1:18-25

Father explains Joseph as a righteous man

Letters:

(23:19) - Pitching a parish ministry at the end of mass (29:14) - Julie mentioned that her husband was killed many years ago

Word of the Day: Until (32:38)

Callers:

(36:50) - I am protestant! .Where is it in the bible is the concept of repentance of mortal sin, and if it is in there, does  contradict Paul's teaching in Roams 6-8? (46:42) - I disagree that God lets us walk away from him. I tried and I was never able to!

Bible Study: (1:40)

 

Is 48:17-19 Father takes a deep dive into the meaning of the word Redeem.

 

Mt 11:16-19 Wisdom is only useful in action. Find out the meaning of this and take a listen.

 

Letters: (18:20)

 

What is the difference between Catholics and Orthodox?

 

 

Word of the Day: (34:27)

 

Gifts

 

Phones: (37:54)

 

Rose - what does it imply when we say the respecter of persons?

 

Craig - God never gives people more that they can handle. Is this in the Bible or just something people say.

 

Jerry - Are there any modern scholars that have proved the 7 books that were taken out were originally written in Hebrew?

 

Shirley - How can we defend ourselves from other Christians who don't think Mary, or the saints aren't important?

 

Betty - What are the duties of the parish priest regarding evangelization?

Bible Study: (3:03)

Is 41:13-20

What is the relationship between the thrashing floor and the Eucharist? 

Mt 11:11-15

What does it mean to be greater than John the Baptist? 

Letters:

(20:45) - Music on the Tilma on Our Lady of Guadalupe (22:26) - Closing parishes during COVID

Word of the Day: Force (34:29)

Callers: 

(38:47) - At the end of the Sermon on the Mount it says the crowds were drawn to him, but I thought you said it was just him and the disciples? (42:19) - I was raised Protestant and my wife was raised Catholic. Are we ever going to see eye to eye on faith matters? (47:41) - The three wise men brough the gifts GFM the gifts fit for a king. If they were fit for a king, what was the amount of these gifts that he received?

Bible Study: (2:18)

Is 40:25-31

Our strength is from the Lord

Mt 11:28-30

Father discusses St. Justin Martyr & what true meekness is

Letters:

(18:49) - Body, Blood, Soul, & Divinity of Christ & Greek Orthodox (25:04) - Son of man & Son of God (28:39) - Reverence for the Eucharist 

Word of the Day: Working (34:04)

Callers: 

(37:38) -  My friend Maria died, and I prayed a rosary for her. Could that rosary have saved her? (40:04) - My mother  had a skull & crossbones on her crucifix. Could you explain that? (41:34) - My sister's grandson brings his girlfriend w/him to my house.  What am I to do? (45:25) - When the Eucharistic prayers are said, why are some saints chosen to be said? (47:35) - I love Bishop Barron's book, "This is my Body." 

Bible Study: (3:18)

ZEC 2:14-17

Father discusses the historical surroundings of Our Lady of Guadalupe  

Rv 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab

Does this passage refer to the Blessed Mother or the Church? 

LK 1:26-38

Mary is the slave of the Lord

Letters:

(23:04) - Bible Recommendation  (24:24) - The Precious Blood at Mass (28:13) - Healing power of Lourdes water (46:38) - Praying away evil stores 

Word of the Day: Proclaims the greatness (30:50)

Callers:

(34:23) - The Chicago Tribune showed numerous images of OLG. (35:18) - On the Feast Day of OLG, a lot of dancing, drums. What's your opinion about this? (37:33) - Question about the Incas and the 60,000 deaths? (41:10) - Why do we consider and talk about the Holy Family being poor, when it seemed they were hard-working? (41:10) - Are we able to pray for Judas repose of his soul? (45:22) - I'm Eastern Orthodox. In the Church I go to, they use the spoon.  When they use a spoon in the Chalice, does alcohol still remain? (46:38) - Could you combine holy water and antifreeze?

Bible Study: (2:03)

Lk 5:17-26 What does it mean the power of the Lord being with Jesus?

 

Letters: (20:16)

What was the ladder that Jacob saw? How do you explain confessing sins to a priest? How did Father become a host on Relevant Radio? What is the gift that Moses commanded in the bible?

 

Word of the Day: (32:03)

Vengeance

 

Phones: (36:00)

Sammy - What are your thoughts on people leaving church early after taking communion? Pete - Were the angels also made in the image of God? Mary Ellen - Women were not allowed in the temple, so in the 4th joyful mystery did they just greet Mary outside or was she allowed inside? William - I play Santa Claus and I'm wondering how to reach more children of other religions. The Jewish children always say they can't ask him for anything.

Bible Study: (4:22)

Gn 3:9-15, 20

Father shares his thoughts on the Immaculate Conception 

Eph 1:3-6, 11-12

What does it mean that God adopts us? 

Lk 1:26-38

What’s the difference between Mary and Zachariah? 

Letters

(21:13) - Can I do the Marian consecration for someone else?  (22:14) - If Adam had taken the apple out of Eve’s hand, would it have still been considered sin?  (24:12) – David writes in about the prayer of St. Gertrude

Word of the Day: Papyrology (26:58)

Callers

(36:39) – The Presentation of Mary (40:02) – How could I develop a love of the Liturgy of the Hours? (41:50) – Was Philemon about the consecrated life?  (43:39) – Could Mary have said ‘No’ to Gabriel? (44:55) – How should I address people going to a funeral, when many of them are not Catholic? (47:41)  – Are angels part of the mystical body of Christ, or is that just us?

Original Air Date: December 8, 2022

Bible Study: (2:19)

Eph 3:8-12

The angels and what God is really like

Mt 7:21, 24-27

What does it mean to do the will of your Father in heaven? 

Letters:

(18:11) - Why was David punished for conducting a census?  (26:55) - You don't hear the whole Bible by going to Mass for three years! 

Word of the Day: Undistinguished (29:07)

Callers: 

(33:43) - At what point at time did the devil knew he lost? (35:44) - In order to teach in the synagogues, rabbis had to be married w/a kid. Is that true? (38:20) - I have a question about Mass obligations for 4th Sunday of Advent and for Christmas Day.  (42:36) - If the angels who fell, were so smart, why did they choose to go against God? (44:47) - When God said, 'I will not forgive blasphemy to Holy Spirit.' Could you explain?

Bible Study: (2:34)

Is 25:6-10a

What is the Lord promising us? 

Mt 15:29-37

What is Jesus teaching his disciples today? 

Letters: 

(21:44) - Can the devil enter a Catholic Church?  (25:33) - Orthodox Church & valid sacraments (27:13) - Life in the spirit seminar 

Word of the Day (32:41)

Callers:

(38:40) - A priest believes a woman should be ordained; how should I respond to him? (43:28) - How do we know Dec 25 is Jesus' b-day (46:40) - About belief in messiah before the Babylonian Captivity? Did they continue to seek a Messiah, as an emperor?

Bible Study: (1:51)

IS 11:1-10

Father gives a history of the Puritans 

Letters

(19:51) – We need to rest!  (22:19) – My cousin passed away, he was cremated but, his ashes are going to be passed out to the attendees of the funeral (27:20) – Where can I find a document regarding communion?  (30:09) – How can we protect ourselves against hopelessness during the Christmas season? 

Word of the Day: Child-like (33:15)

Callers 

(33:52) – Is the Christmas Novena superstitious? (38:55) – What are the origins of Advent?  (41:14) – Why can we not scatter ashes but take relics of the saints all over the world? (44:26) – Is the St. Gertrude prayer superstitious?  (47:39) – Since Mary didn’t have original sin did she experience minor pains like tooth aches?

Original Air Date: November 29, 2022 

Bible Study: (1:53)

Is 2:1-5

History is a witness to the trust of God

Mt 8:5-11

Humility of the Centurion Servant

Letters:

(20:53) - Father discusses the differences between High Mass and Low Mass in the extraordinary form. (23:12) - Rite of Peace (27:31) Letter asking about the ‘Anglican Catholic Church’

Word of the Day: (29:40)

  Callers:

(33:56) Wedding Feast (37:44) Was the centurion St. Longinus? (40:12) - St. Joseph

Original Air Dates: November 28, 2022 (Bible Study), November 30, 2021 (Letters), November 29, 2021 (callers)

Bible Study: (1:46)

Dn 7:2-14

Father explains the prophetic vision 

Lk 21:29-33

Jesus discusses the end of Jerusalem

Letters

(19:59) - Why there was Greek and Latin spoken in Jerusalem (23:26) - Burning coals upon his head (27:10) - The Church in Maine

Word of the Day: Ancient of Days (32:38)

Callers: 

(33:39) - Can Father interpret my dreams?  (37:33) - The Son of God and the Mother of God (40:53) - How the scroll above the crucifix and how that could be interpreted as 'King of the Jews?' (45:42) - Thanks for helping me in my faith!  (48:59) - Are the corporal and spiritual works of mercy equally weighted?

Bible Study: (1:51)

Rom 10:9-18

What does it mean to 'confess'?

Mt 4:18-22

Why did Jesus pick his relatives to be his disciples? 

Letters: 

(24:09) - Promises of the Rosary  (25:51) - Courage & Faith  (28:31) - Shepherd who leaves the 99 (32:28) - The Sons of God; how do we understand it? 

Word of the Day: To be put to shame (34:01)

Callers: 

(36:13) - I'm divorced, and my ex-husband is homeless. Do I help him out even if he puts us down and treats my son badly/threatens him?  (40:24) - Did Jesus know that Judas would betray him when he chose him? (43:09) - How do I refute my friend who says you only need to accept Jesus as Lord and that's all you need? They always use today's readings to justify this. (45:44) - The prayer before the crucifix - how did David learn this prayer? (48:21) - What is it like in purgatory?

Bible Study: (1:51)

Dn 5:1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28

Father explains the importance of 'the finger of God'

Lk 21:12-19

Father goes on a tirade about apostasy in the Church & crisis of convenience 

Letters: 

(22:19) - The language of sex and language  (25:48) - Listener writes in about his son's ordination 

Word of the Day: Witness (37:19) 

Callers: 

(38:19) - Brother left the faith; how should I respond?  (41:20) - Are marriages allowed during Lent? (43:19) - Can I attend my friend's daughter's first communion even though it's at a Lutheran church? (46:49) - Where is it in the New Testament that Jesus and God are the same? (49:04) - Comment about how my parish manages Holy Mass