John Paul Brissette, the director of communications for the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion in New Franken, Wisconsin. Today is the Feast of St. Juan Diego, and he and Gus discuss him, the 400+ years it took for his canonization, and Our Lady’s appearance to him in Guadalupe in 1531. John Paul is also a very popular social media influencer, with over 4 million followers. He didn’t start as a Catholic influencer, and he shares with Gus what led to the transition and the dangers that having so many people following you can have on your psyche.
Also, as we enter the Christmas season, Gus talks about gift-giving, specifically for priests. It’s something a lot of people wish to do but struggle with. Gus advises against religious articles, like Rosaries, spiritual books, crucifixes and the like, because most priests have plenty of those things. He encourages more pragmatic things and invites listeners to call in with suggestions.
And last month, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith published a document entitled “Mater populi fidelis,” which reexamines certain titles for the Blessed Virgin Mary and stated that the title of “co-redemptrix” is inappropriate. The International Marian Association Theological Commission published a scathing critique of the Vatican’s decision and says it needs to be reexamined. They even quoted its modern synodal approach and how every voice needs to be heard, arguing that their voice doesn’t seem as if it’s being listened to by the Vatican.
St. Juan Diego, pray for us!
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