Catholic Saints

After joining the Jesuits in the mid-16th century, St. Peter Canicius is sent to Germany and Austria to combat the rising tide of Lutheranism. St. Peter sees tremendous success by balancing intellectual teaching, writing, and formation with simple acts of charity. Join Dr. Scott Hefelfinger and Taylor Kemp as they discuss the life and impact of this great saint and Doctor of the Church.

Transcribed - Published: 21 December 2025

Join Dr. Scott Hefelfinger and Taylor Kemp as they discuss the life and impact of a little-known Saint, St. Gatian of Tours. In the middle of the third century, St. Gatian was sent from Rome to the far reaches of the Christian world, modern day France, to preach and evangelize to the pagan Gauls. By following the example of St. Gatian, we can learn how to give of ourselves in a way that contributes to the patrimony of holiness in our Church.

Transcribed - Published: 18 December 2025

Dr. Ben Akers sits down with Dr. Scott Hefelfinger to discuss Doctor of the Church, St. John of the Cross. This discussion touches on St. John of the Cross's life, his teaching on prayer, and his example of holiness.

Transcribed - Published: 14 December 2025

Dr. Ben Akers sits down with Dr. James Prothro to discuss Mary's apparition to Saint Juan Diego on Tepeyac hill under the title of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This important apparition played a historical role in the conversion of the Mexico to the Christian faith and the miraculous tilma worn by the saint is still venerated by millions today.

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2025

St. Ambrose (c. 340–397 AD) was the Bishop of Milan and a Doctor of the Church, known for his defense of Nicene Christianity against Arianism. Born into a prominent Roman family, he pursued a career in law and governance before his unexpected election as bishop, despite being unbaptized. A skilled theologian and eloquent orator, he influenced both church and state, famously calling Emperor Theodosius I to repentance after the massacre at Thessalonica. Ambrose’s hymns, writings, and pastoral work left a lasting legacy, including his role in the conversion and baptism of St. Augustine. His feast day is celebrated on December 7.

Transcribed - Published: 7 December 2025

See the work of Jesuit Refugee Service Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed. Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Transcribed - Published: 6 December 2025

See the work of Jesuit Refugee Service Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed. Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Transcribed - Published: 4 December 2025

See the work of Jesuit Refugee Service Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed. Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Transcribed - Published: 3 December 2025

All saints had a story before they met Jesus. For St. Andrew, he was a fisherman. Hearing the call of Christ, Andrew and his brother Peter left everything behind to follow Jesus. Join Dr. Ben Akers and Mary McGeehan as they discuss St. Andrew, his life, and the example he provides to all Christians.

Transcribed - Published: 30 November 2025

Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. Elizabeth Klein, professor of Theology at the Augustine Institute Graduate School, sit down to talk about Servant of God, Dorothy Day—who she was as a woman, her conversion, what she can teach us today, and her fascinating place in the tumultuous 20th century. Watch Catholic Saints on FORMED. Sign Up for FORMED. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute on the Mission Circle.

Transcribed - Published: 28 November 2025

Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a 4th-century Christian martyr, was known for her intelligence, beauty, and steadfast faith. She boldly debated Emperor Maxentius and his scholars, converting many before being imprisoned and martyred for refusing to renounce Christianity. Venerated as the patroness of philosophers and scholars, her legacy inspires courage and devotion.

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2025

Sit down with Dr. Ben Akers and Dr. Carl Vennerstrom as they discuss Pope St. Clement of Rome, who was an early Church Father and the third successor to St. Peter. He wrote an original letter to the dissentient church of Corinth that we can still read and access today! His feast day is November 23. St. Clement, pray for us!  Watch Catholic Saints on FORMED. Sign Up for FORMED. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute on the Mission Circle.

Transcribed - Published: 23 November 2025

Join Dr. Tim Gray and Paul McCusker as they discuss St. Cecilia and the role of Art and Beauty in the New Evangelization.

Transcribed - Published: 22 November 2025

St. Proclus of Constantinople lived in the 5th century and combatted the great heretic, Nestorius. As lector, priest, and then bishop, St. Proclus exemplified the virtues of kindness, humility, and courage. On this episode of Catholic Saints, Dr. John Sehorn reflects on the life and preaching of St. Proclus of Constantinople a great Catholic saint revered in both the East and the West.

Transcribed - Published: 20 November 2025

St. Rose Philippine Duchesne (1769–1852) was a French missionary and a member of the Society of the Sacred Heart who dedicated her life to education and service on the American frontier. After enduring the hardships of the French Revolution, she answered the call to missionary work, establishing schools for Native Americans and settlers in the United States, particularly in Missouri and Kansas. Known for her deep spirituality and devotion, she was called the “Woman Who Prays Always” by the Potawatomi people. Canonized in 1988, her life exemplifies perseverance, cultural bridge-building, and an unwavering commitment to Christ.

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2025

In this episode of "Catholic Saints," we explore the extraordinary life of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, a 13th-century princess who dedicated her life to serving the poor and the sick. Born into royalty, Saint Elizabeth used her position and wealth to provide for those in need, even in the face of personal loss and hardship. Her acts of charity and deep faith, including the miraculous stories associated with her, continue to inspire and challenge us today. Discover how this young widow, despite her brief life, left a lasting legacy of Christian service and devotion. Tune in to learn about the powerful example of Saint Elizabeth and her enduring impact on the Church and the world.

Transcribed - Published: 17 November 2025

St. Albert the Great (1200–1280), also known as Albertus Magnus, was a German Dominican friar, bishop, scholar, and one of the most influential figures of the medieval Church. Renowned as a "Doctor Universalis" (Universal Doctor), he was a polymath who made significant contributions to theology, philosophy, and the natural sciences. A pioneer in integrating Aristotelian philosophy with Christian theology, St. Albert was a mentor to St. Thomas Aquinas and a key figure in the development of Scholasticism. His vast knowledge spanned subjects such as biology, chemistry, astronomy, and ethics, earning him recognition as the patron saint of scientists. Declared a Doctor of the Church in 1931, St. Albert's legacy continues to inspire those who seek harmony between faith and reason.

Transcribed - Published: 15 November 2025

Saint Didacus of Alcalá (c. 1400–1463), also known as Diego de San Nicolás, was a Spanish Franciscan lay brother celebrated for his humility, charity, and deep spirituality. Born in San Nicolás del Puerto, Andalusia, he initially lived as a hermit before joining the Franciscan Order. Didacus served as a missionary in the Canary Islands, where he was appointed guardian of the Franciscan community on Fuerteventura, an exceptional role for a lay brother. In 1450, he traveled to Rome for the canonization of Saint Bernardine of Siena and remained there to care for friars afflicted by an epidemic, reportedly performing miraculous healings. After returning to Spain, he spent his remaining years in contemplation and service, passing away in Alcalá de Henares on November 12, 1463. Canonized in 1588, he is the patron saint of the city of San Diego, California, which was named in his honor.

Transcribed - Published: 13 November 2025

Join Dr. Ben Akers and Dr. Carl Vennerstrom as they discuss St. Leo the Great, who served as pope during the tumultuous time of the Council of Chalcedon. With the heart of a pastor, St. Leo modeled Christian charity amidst the debates and controversies on the divine and human nature of Jesus. He blessed the Church by using his gift of administration to create a healthy bureaucracy where brotherly love could flourish.  Watch Catholic Saints on FORMED. Sign Up for FORMED. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute on the Mission Circle.

Transcribed - Published: 10 November 2025

Saint Elizabeth of the Bible may be considered one of the first members of Christ’s Church as she greets Mary and proclaims her as the “Mother of my Lord.” Dr. Elizabeth Klein and Dr. Michael Barber discuss how Saint Elizabeth is a model for the family of the Church and faith that God fulfills what He has spoken. Hear how her story of the miraculous conception and birth of John the Baptist can be a testament of faith to our lives in this episode of the Catholic Saints Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 5 November 2025

Saint Martin de Porres (1579–1639) was a Peruvian lay brother of the Dominican Order renowned for his profound humility, charity, and dedication to the marginalized. Born in Lima to a Spanish nobleman and a freed African slave, he faced societal discrimination due to his mixed-race heritage. Despite these challenges, Martin devoted his life to serving others, working as a barber-surgeon, caring for the sick, and establishing an orphanage and hospital for abandoned children. He was known for his deep spirituality and was attributed with miraculous abilities, including healing and bilocation. Canonized in 1962, he is the patron saint of social justice, racial harmony, and mixed-race people.

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2025

See the work of Jesuit Refugee Service Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed. Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Transcribed - Published: 1 November 2025

See the work of Jesuit Refugee Service Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed. Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Transcribed - Published: 1 November 2025

See the work of Jesuit Refugee Service Watch Catholic Saints and other great content on Formed. Sign up for a 7-day free trial of Formed. Support this podcast and the Augustine Institute by becoming a member of the Mission Circle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2025

Join Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. Douglas Bushman as they discuss St. John Paul II and the New Evangelization.

Transcribed - Published: 22 October 2025

Known as the beloved physician and faithful friend of St. Paul, St. Luke is a crucial figure for the Church’s knowledge of Christ’s earthly ministry and the early Church. Join Dr. Ben Akers and Taylor Kemp as they explore the life and legacy of the author of the Gospel according to Luke and the Acts of the Apostles.

Transcribed - Published: 18 October 2025

A Father of the early Church, St. Ignatius of Antioch is an incredible model of Christian discipleship. He is also one of Dr. Ben Akers' favorite saints. Sit down with Dr. Ben Akers and Taylor Kemp as they discuss this remarkable bishop, who died a martyr for his fidelity to Christ.

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2025

Dr. Ben Akers and Annette Bergeon, Executive Director of Endow, discuss St. Teresa of Avila and her love of conversations with Jesus.

Transcribed - Published: 15 October 2025

Join Sr. Maris Stella of the Sisters of Life and Dr. Tim Gray for today's discussion on Our Lady of Fatima.

Transcribed - Published: 13 October 2025

Dr. Tim Gray & Lucas Pollice discuss Pope John Paul II's Apostolic Letter, Rosarium Virginis Mariae.

Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2025

Dr. Tim Gray and Paul McCusker talk about the incredible Saint Francis of Assisi. This massive figure of the Church spread the Gospel with incredible power and grace throughout the 13th century.

Transcribed - Published: 4 October 2025

An early Church Father from the 4th century, St. Jerome translated the Bible into Latin with the desire to make Scripture more accessible. St. Jerome is the patron of biblical scholars, translators, and archivists and famously said, "Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ."

Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2025

How do we know angels exist, and where do we learn about them? What are the different types of angels? How do we relate to our guardian angels? Join Dr. Elizabeth Klein and Taylor Kemp to dive into these questions and more.

Transcribed - Published: 29 September 2025

Join Dr. Christopher Blum and Mary McGeehan as they share about the life of St. Vincent de Paul on this episode of Catholic Saints.

Transcribed - Published: 27 September 2025

Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. Sean Innerst discuss the great saint of the 20th century, Padre Pio.

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2025

Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. Michael Barber discuss the Gospel writer and Apostle, St. Matthew. To learn more about the Gospel of St. Matthew, Dr. Gray and Dr. Barber have an ongoing weekly Bible Study that walks through this beautiful Gospel.

Transcribed - Published: 21 September 2025

Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. Sean Innerst discuss the mystic & saint, Joseph of Cupertino.

Transcribed - Published: 18 September 2025

Join Dr. John Sehorn and Taylor Kemp as they dive into the life of St. Cyprian on this episode of Catholic Saints! A Bishop and martyr, St. Cyprian is one of the most famous martyrs of North Africa.

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2025

From Antioch, the political center of the fifth-century world, arose a golden-tongued preacher and bishop: St. John Chrysostom. Listen to Dr. Carl Vennerstrom and Mary McGeehan discuss the life and preaching of this great doctor of the Church who gave us countless powerful prayers and homilies.

Transcribed - Published: 13 September 2025

Saint Maximilian Kolbe's life mirrors that of Christ, as he chose to suffer and die so that another might live, even while enduring constant affliction in the Auschwitz concentration camp. Those who witnessed Saint Maximilian's heroic act recalled how he transformed a prison camp into a cathedral through his unceasing praise of God. Hear Taylor Kemp and special guest Anthony D'Ambrosio discuss Saint Maximilian Kolbe and his witness of living a meaningful life by embracing the cross of Christian life.

Transcribed - Published: 12 September 2025

Dr. Carl Vennerstrom shares about St. Peter Claver, a saint with a heart for the poor, outcast, and enslaved. As a young, Jesuit priest he signed up to be a missionary to the New World to serve the slaves at the port of Cartagena, a major hub of slave trade. St. Peter indiscriminately preached the gospel through words and works of mercy to all he encountered.

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2025

Born in 1991, Carlo Acutis was raised in Italy by parents who never imagined their firstborn son would one day be declared a saint. In his short life of just 15 years, Carlo demonstrated remarkable maturity in virtue and faith, particularly through his devotion to the Eucharist, all while living the ordinary life of a boy who loved sports and his pets. Like many children his age, Carlo developed an interest in the internet but viewed it as a tool for evangelization and often warned about its potential dangers. Using his technological talents, he created an exhibit of Eucharistic miracles that remains available today. Hear Dr. Ben Akers and Dr. Elizabeth Klein discuss this newly beatified saint on this episode of the Catholic Saints Podcast.

Transcribed - Published: 6 September 2025

St. Teresa of Calcutta is known throughout the world as a woman totally committed to the Gospel and to the Catholic Church. Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. Mark Giszczak discuss the great Catholic saint of the poor, Teresa of Calcutta.

Transcribed - Published: 5 September 2025

Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. John Sehorn discuss Pope St. Gregory the Great and his impact on the Church.

Transcribed - Published: 3 September 2025

Although a lesser-known Irish saint, St. Aidan of Lindisfarne was a pivotal priest and missionary to the early Church in Ireland who cared unceasingly for the spiritual and physical needs of both the nobility and the poor. Follow along with Mary McGeehan and Augustine Institute professor Dr. Elizabeth Klein as they discuss this 7th Century Irish bishop in this episode of Catholic Saints. St. Aidan of Lindisfarne exemplified the poverty which Christ calls us to in the Gospels in a radical way. Following his example, how can you embrace this call to poverty by living simply and aiding the poor?

Transcribed - Published: 31 August 2025

Join Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. Elizabeth Klein as they discuss St. Augustine's relationship with the Augustine Institute.

Transcribed - Published: 28 August 2025

Dr. Tim Gray and Dr. John Sehorn discuss St. Monica, mother of St. Augustine.

Transcribed - Published: 27 August 2025

Dr. Ben Akers and Dr. Christopher Blum discuss the only king of France to be canonized, St. Louis IX.

Transcribed - Published: 25 August 2025

Dr. Ben Akers and Dr. John Sehorn discuss the great apostle, St. Bartholomew. Grab your Bible and follow along.

Transcribed - Published: 24 August 2025

Dr. Carl Vennerstrom and Mary McGeehan discuss the life and impact of St. Rose of Lima. Born in Lima in the late 16th century, Rose is known for her zealous faith, strong fasting, self-imposed penances, and her desire to remain unmarried to be Christ’s spouse. St. Rose experienced much tension between her vocation and her family life as her devotion to God sometimes conflicted with her obedience to her parents.

Transcribed - Published: 23 August 2025