Son Rise Morning Show
The Son Rise Morning Show is a daily Catholic morning program hosted by Anna Mitchell and Matt Swaim. It aims to be fast-paced, motivating, and informational, covering news and daily topics from a Catholic perspective. Each weekday morning from 6 to 8 a.m. ET, the show features news, engaging interviews, and prayer. The program is produced by Sacred Heart Catholic Radio.
Episodes
Can AI Be Conscious? Fr. Philip Larrey on Ethics, Anthropic, and Human Soul
Can artificial intelligence truly develop self-consciousness, and what are the moral and theological stakes if tech leaders treat AI models as aware beings? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Fr. Philip Larrey, Chair of Humanity 2.0 and professor of philosophy, to unpack recent high-level meetings between Silicon Valley leaders at Anthropic and religious figures regardi
Timeless Wisdom for Today: Alan Smith on Why Fulton Sheen Still Speaks
Why does Venerable Fulton J. Sheen continue to resonate so deeply with modern audiences decades after his television and radio broadcasts? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Alan Smith, author of America's Apostle: The Life and Work of Fulton J. Sheen, to explore the enduring relevance and timeless appeal of the legendary bishop. Smith reflects on Pope St. John Paul II&rsq
The True Friend Who Never Abandons: Kris McGregor on St. Teresa of Avila and the Office of Readings
Why is St. Teresa of Avila considered one of the most accessible and readable Doctors of the Church, and how does her teaching anchor our interior lives? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Kris McGregor, founder of DiscerningHearts.com, to reflect on the selection from the Office of Readings for the October 15th Feast of St. Teresa of Jesus (St. Teresa of Avila). McGreg
Exploring the Forgotten Holy Land: Steve Ray on Jordan in Sacred Scripture
Why is Jordan often called the "forgotten part of the Holy Land," and what profound biblical history lies just across the Jordan River? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Steve Ray, Catholic author, speaker, and pilgrimage leader from CatholicConvert.com, to explore the deep scriptural significance of Jordan. Ray previews an upcoming pilgrimage ahead of the anticipated 2,0
Sanctity of Life & the Rejection of Bloodlust: Kathryn Jean Lopez on Capital Punishment
When the state attempts and fails to carry out a capital sentence, what does it reveal about the moral condition of our culture? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Kathryn Jean Lopez, Senior Fellow with the National Review Institute, to discuss the ongoing public debates surrounding capital punishment. Lopez reflects on the botched execution of Krista Pike in Tennessee&mda
Reclaiming the Primary Virtue: Dr. Marlon De La Torre on the Absence of Charity
When we look at the growing anxiety, division, and self-centeredness in modern culture, what is the fundamental missing piece? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Dr. Marlon De La Torre, Senior Director of Evangelization and Catechesis for the Diocese of Columbus and author at Knowing Is Doing, to discuss his recent reflection on the absence of charity. Dr. De La Torre expl
Heights of Prayer & Wild Personality: Fr. Boniface Hicks on St. Teresa of Avila
Why does St. Teresa of Avila continue to captivate the hearts of believers across generations and vocations? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Fr. Boniface Hicks, O.S.B., author of Personal Prayer: A Guide for Receiving the Father's Love, to reflect on the enduring witness and relatable holiness of St. Teresa of Jesus. Fr. Hicks highlights her dynamic, vibrant personality
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.13
Good morning! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell discuss the anniversary of the Miracle of the Sun at Fatima. Guests include Fr. Boniface Hicks on St. Teresa of Avila and the interior life, Steve Ray on what the Catechism says about Abraham, and Kris McGregor to reflect on a selection from the Office of Readings. Plus all the latest news, weather, sports, and more… ***** St
The Narrow Path of Perfection: Dr. Benjamin Lewis on the Collect for St. Teresa of Avila
How does a single collect prayer capture the fiery mysticism, practical wisdom, and literary genius of one of the Church’s greatest Doctors? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Dr. Benjamin Lewis, Director of Translation Services for the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL), to examine the Mass Collect for the Feast of St. Teresa of Avila (St. Ter
The Lens of the Gift: Matt Reinkemeyer on St. John Paul II’s Theology of Stewardship
How does seeing all of creation through the lens of divine gift fundamentally transform the way we manage our time, talent, and treasure? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Matt Reinkemeyer, President and CEO of the Catholic Community Foundation, to explore Pope St. John Paul II’s profound impact on the theology of stewardship. Reinkemeyer reflects on his collegia
In the Footsteps of Popes: Teresa Tomeo Live from Rome on the Feast of Bl. Carlo Acutis
What is it like walking the sacred streets of Rome on a papal pilgrimage just as major news breaks directly from the Holy Father himself? On The Son Rise Morning Show, co-host Matt Swaim checks in with Teresa Tomeo live from Italy, where she is co-leading a pilgrimage alongside Deacon Dom Pastore and EWTN’s Dr. Matthew Bunson. Tomeo shares updates from the pilgrims' visits to major Roman bas
Formation for Friendship: Fr. John Gavin on St. Irenaeus and the Ten Commandments
Are the Ten Commandments merely a restrictive list of rules, or are they a divine invitation to deep friendship with God and neighbor? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Fr. John Gavin, S.J.—author of Mysteries of the Lord's Prayer and Growing into God—to continue exploring the Church Fathers cited in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Focusing on CCC 206
Crossing the Street: Ritt Leslie & Paul Gastonguay on Direct Homeless Ministry in Maine
How can a simple act of stepping towards someone in need transform both the giver and the receiver? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim speaks with Rit Leslie and Paul Gastonguay, leaders of the "Cross the Street Ministry" at Prince of Peace Parish in Lewiston, Maine. Leslie and Gastonguay share how their parish outreach grew from delivering essentials out of personal vehicles to operati
Militias and Generals: Kevin Schmiesing on Erasmus Darwin Keyes and the Militia Immaculata
From a Civil War major general with an evocative name to a world-spanning Marian movement born in Rome, what key milestones mark this week in Catholic history? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Kevin Schmiesing—historian with the Freedom and Virtue Institute, co-host of the Catholic History Trek podcast, and author of A Catholic Pilgrimage Through American Hist
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.12
Happy feast of St. Carlo Acutis! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell discuss the life and witness of the first saint from the Millennial generation. Guests include Paul Gastonguay and Rit Leslie from Cross the Street ministry, Fr. John Gavin with more thoughts from the Church Fathers as quoted in the Catechism, and Kevin Schmiesing with This Week in Catholic History. Plus all the l
The Complete Invitation: Fr. Jonathan Duncan on Matthew 22 and the Wedding Garment
Why does Jesus' parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 22 take a dramatic turn after the unwashed masses are welcomed into the hall? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Fr. Jonathan Duncan from the Diocese of Charleston and the Bone Church Revival podcast to break down the Gospel reading for the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Fr. Duncan warns against taking the "lectionary
Unlocking the Brain: Bobby Schindler on Optogenetics and the Nobel Prize in Medicine
How do cutting-edge breakthroughs in neuroscience and brain function reaffirm the inherent dignity of human life? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Bobby Schindler from the Terri Schiavo Life & Hope Network to discuss recent medical milestones and ongoing research into severe brain injuries. Schindler and Swaim dive into the fascinating history of the Nobel Prizes&mda
The Mold of Grace: Greg Willits on Knowledge of Mary in Total Consecration
Why is getting to know the Blessed Virgin Mary an essential stage in preparing for total consecration to Jesus? On The Son Rise Morning Show, co-host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Greg Willits—author of God Doesn't Hate Me After All and founder of Rosary Army and TotalConsecration.com—to discuss the third stage of St. Louis de Montfort’s 33-day preparation for total consecration: K
Four Gospels, One Story: Jason Gale on TAN Books’ "The Harmonized Gospel"
How can reading the four Gospels woven together into a single, seamless narrative give us a fresh perspective on the life of Christ? On The Son Rise Morning Show, co-host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Jason Gale, Vice President of Content and Production at TAN Books, to explore their newly released edition of The Harmonized Gospel. Gale explains how this volume synthesizes Matthew, Mark, Luke, and J
The Heavenly Wedding Feast: Fr. Hezekias Carnazzo on Isaiah 25 and Matthew 22
What does an Old Testament feast on the Lord's holy mountain have to do with the parable of the wedding garment in the Gospel of Matthew? On The Son Rise Morning Show, co-host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Fr. Hezekias Carnazzo, founder and executive director of the Institute of Catholic Culture, to break down the Sunday Mass readings for the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Fr. Carnazzo explains how I
From the Via Media to Rome: Andrew Petiprin on St. John Henry Newman and the Journey to Catholicity
How does an Anglican priest view St. John Henry Newman, and what happens when they follow Newman's path into the Catholic Church? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Andrew Petiprin from the Spe Salvi Institute—himself a former Episcopal priest—on the feast day of St. John Henry Newman to reflect on the giant of 19th-century theology and the power of his convers
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.09
Happy feast of St. John Henry Newman! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell welcome Andrew Petiprin, a former Episcopal priest, to share the role Newman played in his own journey to the Catholic Faith. Other guests include Jason Gale, author of “The Harmonized Gospel,” and Fr. Hezekias Carnazzo from the Institute of Catholic Culture and Fr. Jonathan Duncan from the Bone C
Unlikely Apostles: Cy Kellett on the Calling of St. Matthew and the Inclusivity of Christ’s Kingdom
How does Jesus choosing a hated tax collector reveal the radical, unexpected reach of Divine Mercy? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Cy Kellett—host of Catholic Answers Live and author of A Teacher of Strange Things: Who Jesus Was, What He Taught, and Why People Still Follow Him—to unpack Chapter 8 and the calling of St. Matthew. Kellett discusses Caravaggio&
Life in the Spirit: Courtney Brown on Theology of the Body, Galatians, and the Goodness of the Body
How does St. Paul’s warning in Galatians against "ending with the flesh" shape our understanding of Catholic morality and the human body? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim speaks with Courtney Brown, Executive Director of the Ruah Woods Institute, to explore St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body and the true meaning of living life according to the Holy Spirit. Brown unpac
The Priest-King & Eternal Son: Gary Michuta on Psalm 110 and Messianic Prophecy
How does a single Old Testament Psalm point directly to the divinity, eternal priesthood, and kingship of Jesus Christ? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Catholic apologist and author Gary Michuta from Hands On Apologetics to break down Psalm 110, one of the most frequently quoted Old Testament passages in the New Testament. Gary Michuta unpacks the famous opening verse&m
Banquets, Blessings, and Easy Feasts: Rita Heikenfeld on Biblical Hospitality & White Chicken Chili
When the weather gets chilly, nothing brings people together quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chili! On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim catches up with culinary expert and Bible foods enthusiast Rita Heikenfeld from AboutEating.com to talk about the spiritual and cultural importance of banquets and shared meals. Rita and Matt explore how festive banquets serve as a central theme th
The Patriarch of Faith: Dr. John Bergsma on St. Abraham, Genesis Covenants, and Salvation History
Why is Abraham so foundational to the entire trajectory of the Bible? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Dr. John Bergsma—theologian, author/illustrator of Bible Basics for Catholics, and co-author of A Catholic Introduction to the Bible: The Old Testament—to mark the October 9th feast day of the Patriarch Abraham. Dr. Bergsma unpacks Abraham's pedigree in G
How Long Should Therapy Last? Kevin Prendergast on Mental Health Ministry, Goals, and Growth
When seeking professional help for emotional or psychological struggles, how do you know how long counseling should actually last? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back pastoral counselor Kevin Prendergast—licensed therapist with decades of experience in private practice and seminary formation—to mark Mental Health Month and reflect on Pope Francis' prayer intenti
The Maestro of Modern Evangelization: Mike Aquilina on Fulton Sheen and The Power of Love
How does a 20th-century American TV pioneer mirror the timeless wisdom of the early Church Fathers? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back patristics scholar and author Mike Aquilina to discuss his new foreword for the Ignatius Press re-release of Venerable Fulton J. Sheen’s classic work, The Power of Love. Aquilina compares Archbishop Sheen’s masterclass in com
Slippery Slopes & Holy Restraint: Fr. Robert Nixon on Thomas à Kempis, Silence, and Human Nature
How do good intentions accidentally lead us back into old habits? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Fr. Robert Nixon, O.S.B., Benedictine monk at New Norcia in Australia and translator for TAN Books' Resurrection Series, to continue exploring Thomas à Kempis' spiritual classic Solitude and Silence: The Cloister of the Heart. Fr. Nixon discusses how our desire to
Finding Hope in Lamentations: Trusting God’s Unfailing Love
On the Son Rise Morning Show, Matt Swaim welcomes back Gary Zimak of FollowingTheTruth.com to reflect on a surprising source of hope: Lamentations 3:32 — “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end.” Lamentations may seem like an unlikely place to find encouragement, but Gary explains how this powerful passage speaks directly to people who are s
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.08
Do you have our free app? Download it at sacredheartradio.com/app. Good morning! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell welcome Rita Heikenfeld to discuss banquets in the Bible, and share a recipe for white chicken chili. Other guests include Gary Michuta with more Messianic prophecies fulfilled in Jesus, Dr. John Bergsma on God’s promises to Abraham, and pastoral counselor Kevi
Keeping Your Guard Up: Bear Woznick on Spiritual Vigilance & Everyday Courage
When the world constantly challenges your faith and values, how do you keep your spiritual guard from dropping? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Bear Woznick—author of Men of Grit and Grace and founder of SchoolOfManliness.com—for a reflection on the vital necessity of spiritual watchfulness. Drawing from 1 Peter 5:8 and his own experiences in martial arts, W
The Greatest "Failure" in History: Fr. Augustine Wetta on St. John the Baptist
By worldly standards, a man who lived on bugs in the desert, wore itchy camel hair, lost his followers to another preacher, and was ultimately executed in prison might look like a total failure. On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Benedictine monk and author Fr. Augustine Wetta, O.S.B. (Humility Rules, Pray, Think, Act) for the latest installment in their series on saints w
Called to Be Missionary Disciples: Fr. Frank Donio on Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Francis, and the Lay Faithful
How are lay Catholics called to be active agents of the New Evangelization rather than passive spectators in the pews? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C., Director of the Catholic Apostolate Center, to explore the Magisterium's teaching on the vital role of the laity in spreading the Gospel. Fr. Donio examines how Pope Benedict XVI’s aposto
Reverence and Reception: Shaun McAfee on the 12th-Century Eucharistic Miracle of Betbrunn
What can a medieval farmer launching a walking stick teach us about Eucharistic reverence and liturgical discipline today? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Shaun McAfee, author of Compendium of Eucharistic Miracles (TAN Books), to explore a fascinating 12th-century miracle from Betbrunn, Germany. McAfee shares the story of a devoted yet misguided farmer who took a consec
Taming Interior Storms: Deacon Nathan Beiersdorfer on Anxiety, Sadness, and St. Francis de Sales
How do anxiety and melancholy disrupt our interior lives, and how can we regain holy peace when our thoughts start racing? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell continues her series on St. Francis de Sales' classic Introduction to the Devout Life with Deacon Nathan Beiersdorfer—permanent deacon in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati and president of the Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori
Were Cornelius & His Household Saved Before Baptism? Dr. Karlo Broussard Explains Acts 10
Does the dramatic outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon Cornelius and his household in Acts 10 prove that baptism isn't necessary for salvation? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Anna Mitchell welcomes back Dr. Karlo Broussard, Director of Apologetics at Catholic Answers and author of Baptism Now Saves You, to address this common Protestant objection. Dr. Broussard breaks down the crucial historical
The Rosary as Weapon & Shield: Fr. Philip Michael Tangorra on St. Bartolo Longo and Our Lady of the Rosary
How does the Holy Rosary serve as both a spiritual shield against intrusive dark thoughts and a weapon of peace in the battle for souls? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Fr. Philip Michael Tangorra—pastor, canon lawyer, and author of This Is Our Faith—to explore the deep connection between the Feast of St. Bartolo Longo and the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary
I Am With You Always: Gary Zimak on Finding Peace in Matthew 28:20
In a world saturated with anxiety and uncertainty, where do we turn to anchor our hearts? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim welcomes back Gary Zimak—author of Stop Worrying and Start Living and founder of FollowingTheTruth.com—for his weekly reflection on Scripture verses that offer real perspective in troubling times. This week, Zimak and Swaim unpack the final words of Je
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.07
Happy feast of Our Lady of the Rosary! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell welcome Dr. Benjamin Lewis from ICEL to share an ancient hymn that tells the entire story of the Rosary, and Fr. Philip-Michael Tangorra on St. Bartolo Longo’s devotion to the Rosary. Other guests include Gary Zimak to look at the last words of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew, Karlo Broussard on what th
The Afterglow of Beatification: Alan Smith on Blessed Fulton Sheen’s Enduring Legacy
In the joyful aftermath of the fall beatification celebration in St. Louis, how does the timeless witness of Blessed Fulton J. Sheen continue to inspire a new generation of Catholic communicators and everyday disciples? On The Son Rise Morning Show, Alan Smith (part of the Celebrate Sheen Project, advisory board member for the cause, and author of America's Apostle) joins Matt Swaim to reflect on
Hidden Offering, Divine Mercy: Kris McGregor on St. Faustina Kowalska
How does a humble Polish nun working in quiet convent kitchens become an instrument of worldwide grace? On The Son Rise Morning Show, Kris McGregor from discerninghearts.com joins Anna Mitchell to explore the spiritual diary and feast day selection from the Office of Readings for Saint Faustina Kowalska—the visionary apostle of Divine Mercy. Kris and Anna unpack St. Faustina’s deep und
The Word Became Flesh and Tabernacled Among Us: Steve Ray on the Biblical Theology of Tents
What does the ancient craft of tentmaking have to do with the Incarnation and the Holy Eucharist? On The Son Rise Morning Show, veteran author, speaker, and pilgrimage leader Steve Ray (catholicconvert.com) joins Matt Swaim to explore the rich, multi-layered biblical symbolism of tents, tabernacles, and God's desire to dwell among His people. Reflecting on St. Paul’s vocation as a tentmaker
A Light in Secular France: Kathryn Jean Lopez on Pope Leo’s Historic Papal Visit
Why did Pope Leo’s recent apostolic journey to France evoke memories of Saint John Paul II’s historic international trips, drawing unexpectedly massive crowds in a deeply secularized nation? On The Son Rise Morning Show, Kathryn Jean Lopez of National Review Online joins Matt Swaim to reflect on the lasting impact, spiritual fruit, and ongoing social reverberations of the papal visit a
A Body Without a Soul: Marlon De La Torre on the Contemplative Genius of the Rosary
Is the Rosary just a mechanical repetition of words, or is it a transformative doorway into deep, interior silence? On The Son Rise Morning Show, Marlon De La Torre (Senior Director of the Department of Evangelization for the Diocese of Columbus, author of Teaching Toward Heaven, and writer at knowingisdoing.org) joins Anna Mitchell during the month of the Holy Rosary to unpack the contemplative h
The Power of Silence and Solitude: Fr. Boniface Hicks on St. Bruno and the Carthusians
In a culture dominated by endless noise, distraction, and constant connectivity, what can a 10th-century hermit teach us about peace and prayer today? On The Son Rise Morning Show, Benedictine monk Fr. Boniface Hicks, OSB (author of Personal Prayer: A Guide for Receiving the Father's Love), joins Matt Swaim to celebrate the feast day of St. Bruno, founder of the Carthusians. Fr. Boniface unpacks t
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.06
Download our free app! sacredheartradio.com/app Good morning! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell welcome Steve Ray to talk more about tents and tent making in the Bible. Other guests include Fr. Boniface Hicks with more thoughts on personal prayer from the saints, Kathryn Lopez with more thoughts on the long-term effects of Pope Leo’s visit to France, and Kris McGregor to re
Playing in the Dirt vs. the Infinite Scroll: Dr. James Schroeder on Technology, Loneliness, & Real Play
Why are tech executives often the most cautious when it comes to their own children's device use? Dr. James Schroeder joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to discuss recent comments from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who shared that becoming a father made him rethink "infinite scroll" algorithms and advocate for his child to "play in the dirt for now" rather than use iPads. Dr. Schroeder breaks
Virgin Mother, We Acclaim: Dr. Benjamin Lewis on the Hymn for Our Lady of the Rosary
How do the mysteries of the Rosary intersect with the Liturgy of the Hours and the ancient rhythm of the Angelus? Dr. Benjamin Lewis, Director of Translation Services for the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL), joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to unpack the Lauds and Vespers hymn Virgin Mother, We Acclaim for the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary (October 7th). Dr
Sigrid Undset, Robert Hugh Benson, & the Mystery of the Cross: Stephanie Mann on Triumph Through Defeat
How does the mystery of the Cross help us navigate both personal trials and the fallibility of the Church? Author Stephanie Mann (Supremacy and Survival) returns to The Son Rise Morning Show with Matt Swaim to continue exploring the conversion of Nobel Prize–winning Norwegian author Sigrid Undset. Examining Undset's life and her third volume of Kristin Lavransdatter, titled The Cross, Stepha
Fulton Sheen, Matchmaking, & the Daily Holy Hour: Rosemarie Costello on Adore Him: He Is Here
How did Blessed Fulton Sheen's lifelong commitment to the daily Holy Hour impact those closest to him? Rosemarie Costello, grandniece of Venerable Fulton Sheen and interviewee in the new docudrama Adore Him: He Is Here, joins Anna Mitchell on The Son Rise Morning Show. Rosemarie shares charming personal stories of how Bishop Sheen acted as a matchmaker for her parents, the deep family connection t
Feast of St. Francis in Assisi: Teresa Tomeo on Deacon Dominic’s Unforgettable Service at the Basilica
What is it like to serve Mass at the tomb of St. Francis of Assisi on his feast day during an 800th anniversary year? Radio host and author Teresa Tomeo joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to share a moving, once-in-a-lifetime story from Italy. Teresa details how her husband, Deacon Dominic Pastore, unexpectedly ended up serving as the sole deacon for the major English Mass celebrated by
Going from Beginning to Beginning: Fr. John Gavin on St. Gregory of Nyssa, Spiritual Battle, & Desire for God
How does the Christian life move beyond simple "brokenness and repair" into an ever-deepening communion with the Divine? Fr. John Gavin, S.J., author of Mysteries of the Lord's Prayer and Growing into God, rejoins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to continue exploring the Church Fathers in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2015). Turning to St. Gregory of Nyssa’s commentary on
Kennedy Wedding & Blessed Giuseppe Toniolo: Kevin Schmiesing on This Week in Catholic History
How have Catholics throughout history integrated their faith into politics, economics, and culture? Kevin Schmiesing, author of A Catholic Pilgrimage Through American History, joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to highlight two major anniversaries from this week in Catholic history. First, they look back at the October 7, 1914 wedding of Joseph P. Kennedy and Rose Fitzgerald, traci
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.05
Good morning! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell discuss the feasts of three fascinating saints; St. Faustina, St. Bartolo Longo, and Bl. Francis Xavier Seelos. Guests include Teresa Tomeo to report back from Mass this weekend at the Church of St. Francis in Assisi for his feast yesterday, Fr. John Gavin with more quotes from the Church Fathers that show up in the Catechism,  
The Battle of Lepanto & Chesterton’s Poem: Joseph Pearce on History, Faith, & the Rosary
How did a 1571 naval battle shape Western civilization, and why did G.K. Chesterton immortalize it in verse? Renowned Catholic author and literary scholar Joseph Pearce joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to unpack the history and poetry behind Chesterton's epic poem Lepanto. Pearce discusses the historical significance of the Holy League's victory under Don John of Austria, the connecti
The Owner of the Vineyard: Fr. Jonathan Duncan on Isaiah 5, Matthew 21, and God’s Unfailing Mercy
Who truly owns the vineyard, and what does God expect from those called to cultivate it? Fr. Jonathan Duncan from the Diocese of Charleston joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to preview the Mass readings for the 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Unpacking the prophecy of Isaiah 5 and Jesus' Parable of the Wicked Tenants in Matthew 21, Fr. Jonathan explores the difference between self-appoin
Thrill-Seeking, Roller Coasters, & Traumatic Brain Injuries: Bobby Schindler on Park Closures & Brain Health
Can high-speed amusement rides cause severe, lasting neurological damage? Bobby Schindler from the Terri Schiavo Life & Hope Network joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to discuss the recent permanent closure of Six Flags Magic Mountain’s X2 roller coaster following reports of severe traumatic brain injuries and lawsuits. Schindler unpacks the mechanics behind rapid acceleratio
Knowledge of Self & Spiritual Examination: Greg Willits on St. Louis de Montfort’s Total Consecration
How does truly knowing ourselves—including our weaknesses and sins—bring us closer to Jesus Christ? Greg Willits, author of God Doesn't Hate Me After All and co-founder of Rosary Army, rejoins Annie Mitchell on The Son Rise Morning Show to explore the second phase of St. Louis de Montfort's Total Consecration to Jesus through Mary. Greg breaks down the week dedicated to "Knowledge of S
15th Annual Sacred Heart Congress: Emily Jaminet on Enthronement & Living Devotion
How can enthroning the Sacred Heart transform your home, family, and spiritual life? Emily Jaminet, Executive Director of the Sacred Heart Enthronement Network and author of Holy Habits from the Sacred Heart, joins host Anna Mitchell on The Son Rise Morning Show for First Friday. Together, they announce the upcoming 15th Annual Sacred Heart Congress taking place in person and via live stream on Sa
The Parable of the Wicked Tenants: Fr. Hezekias Carnazzo on Isaiah 5, Matthew 21, & Stewardship in the Church
What does the image of the vineyard reveal about God’s expectations for His people? Fr. Hezekias Carnazzo, founder and Executive Director of the Institute of Catholic Culture, joins host Annie Mitchell on The Son Rise Morning Show to preview the Mass readings for the 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Fr. Hezekias unpacks the deep connections between Isaiah's song of the vineyard (Isaiah 5:1&ndas
Reawakening the Eldest Daughter: Andrew Petiprin on Pope Leo XIV’s Historic Trip to France
Can the Catholic Church reawaken the spiritual roots of secular Europe? Andrew Petiprin, fellow at the Spes Salutis Institute and author of The Faith Unboxed, joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to analyze Pope Leo XIV’s landmark pastoral visit to France. From celebrating Mass for 800,000 faithful at the Place de la Concorde to addressing UNESCO and French leadership on liberty, te
Biblical Foundations of Guardian Angels: Mike Aquilina on Heavenly Protectors & Church Fathers
Are Guardian Angels merely a sentimental devotion, or are they deeply rooted in Scripture and ancient Christian tradition? Patristics expert and author Mike Aquilina joins Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to explore the biblical reality of angels. From Old Testament encounters with Genesis, Daniel, and Zechariah to Jesus' own words about angelic guardians, Aquilina reveals how angels active
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.02
Happy feast of the Guardian Angels! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell welcome Mike Aquilina to discuss the Biblical basis for Catholic belief in them, and their role in the world. Other guests include Andrew Petiprin from the Spe Salvi Institute to reflect on what’s next for the Church in France after Pope Leo’s visit, and Fr. Hezekias Carnazzo from the Institute of C
The Finding in the Temple & The Hidden Years: Cy Kellett on Jesus at Age 12
Why did St. Luke include the story of 12-year-old Jesus in the Temple, while the other Gospel writers omitted it entirely? Cy Kellett—host of Catholic Answers Live and author of Teacher of Strange Things—joins Matt Swaim on the Son Rise Morning Show to unpack this unique window into Christ’s youth. Kellett explains how Jesus's exchange with the Temple scholars reveals His divine
Blessed Are the Merciful: Father Sebastian Walshe, O.Praem., on Forgiveness, Trust, & Divine Mercy
Why is receiving mercy the most fitting and obvious reward for those who show mercy to others? Father Sebastian Walshe, O.Praem.—Norbertine canon at St. Michael's Abbey in California and author of The Heart of the Gospel: How the Beatitudes Show Us God's Plan for Happiness—returns to Sacred Heart Radio's Son Rise Morning Show. Father Sebastian explores the theological depth of Christ's
Messianic Prophecy in Psalm 110: Gary Michuta on the Melchizedek Priesthood & David’s Lord
How does a short seven-verse psalm contain over a dozen distinct prophecies about Jesus Christ? Apologist and author Gary Michuta (Messiah: Old Testament Prophecies Fulfilled in Christ) joins Sacred Heart Radio's Son Rise Morning Show to unpack Psalm 110. From Jesus's famous riddle to the Pharisees in Matthew 22 to St. Peter’s iconic Pentecost sermon in Acts 2, Gary explores how this powerfu
Michaelmas, Harvest Traditions, & "Speed-Scratch" Angel Food Cake with Rita Nader Heikenfeld
How do our Catholic liturgical traditions connect with the seasonal rhythms of the autumn harvest? As the Church celebrates the feast of the Archangels (Michaelmas) and prepares for the Feast of the Guardian Angels, culinary expert and herbalist Rita Nader Heikenfeld joins Sacred Heart Radio's Son Rise Morning Show. Rita shares fascinating folk traditions—from harvesting carrots and apples f
The Rejected Stone & Passover Promises: Dr. John Bergsma on Psalm 118 and the Gospel Parable
Why did Jesus quote Psalm 118 to the Pharisees during Holy Week after telling the Parable of the Wicked Tenants? Dr. John Bergsma—prolific author, illustrator, and theology professor (Bible Basics for Catholics, Psalm Basics for Catholics)—joins Anna Mitchell on the Son Rise Morning Show to unpack the deep Old Testament roots of this famous passage. Dr. Bergsma explains how Psalm 118 w
Mental Health, Grace, & The Reality of Sanctity with Pastoral Counselor Kevin Prendergast
Can a person struggle with trauma, anxiety, and severe mental distress and still become a great saint? As Mental Health Awareness Month opens on the Feast of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, pastoral counselor Kevin Prendergast joins the Son Rise Morning Show to dispel the saccharine myth surrounding the "Little Flower." Drawing from decades of clinical and seminary experience, Prendergast ex
Sisters, School, and Something More: Claire Swinarski on St. Thérèse & The Fiat Girls Series
How can a nine-year-old girl in the 1880s teach young girls today about navigating life's biggest transitions? Author Claire Swinarski joins the Son Rise Morning Show on Sacred Heart Radio to discuss her book Sisters, School, and Something More, part of the Fiat Girls series from Ascension Press. Swinarski explores the childhood of St. Thérèse of Lisieux—from the heartache of h
Sin in Words & Thoughts: Father Robert Nixon, OSB, on Thomas à Kempis & Solitude and Silence
How easily do we sin not only through our spoken words, but within the hidden theater of our thoughts? Father Robert Nixon, OSB—Benedictine monk at New Norcia in Australia and translator for the TAN Resurrection Series—joins host Anna Mitchell on the Son Rise Morning Show to reflect on Thomas à Kempis's classic insights from Solitude and Silence: The Cloister of the Heart. Fathe
Son Rise Morning Show 2026.10.01
Happy feast of St. Therese of Lisieux! On today’s show, Matt Swaim and Anna Mitchell discuss the extraordinary childlike wisdom of the saint known as the Little Flower. Guests include pastoral counselor Kevin Prendergast on October as mental health month, Rita Heikenfeld with an angel food cake recipe amid the feasts of the Archangels and Guardian Angels, and Gary Michuta to explore more Mes
The Resistance: Fr. John Riccardo on God’s Plan for Renewing the Human Family on The Son Rise Morning Show
Facing a "new Great Depression" marked by widespread anxiety, isolation, and spiritual confusion, how is God calling Christians to renew the human family? Fr. John Riccardo, founder of Acts XXIX, joins host Anna Mitchell on The Son Rise Morning Show to discuss his new book, The Resistance: God's Plan for Renewing the Human Family. Fr. Riccardo shares a dynamic, patristic vision of Jesus as the vic
Saints Who Were "Failures": Reframing Honor with Fr. Augustine Wetta on The Son Rise Morning Show
By worldly standards, many of the Catholic Church’s greatest saints looked like complete failures. Fr. Augustine Wetta, OSB, author of Humility Rules and Pray Think Act, joins host Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to kick off a new series on "Saints Who Were Failures." Drawing a stark contrast between modern views of honor—comparing social media metrics to Achilles in Homer&rsqu
The Laity, the Family, & Evangelization with Fr. Frank Donio, SAC on The Son Rise Morning Show
How are lay Catholics called to share the Gospel in their everyday lives? Fr. Frank Donio, SAC, Director of the Catholic Apostolate Center, joins host Anna Mitchell on The Son Rise Morning Show to continue exploring the development of Church teaching on the role of the laity. Focusing on Pope St. Paul VI’s Evangelii Nuntiandi and Pope St. John Paul II’s Christifideles Laici, Fr. Frank
The Weingarten Miracle of the Precious Blood with Shaun McAfee on The Son Rise Morning Show
Did a relic containing the actual blood of Christ shed at the Crucifixion make its way to a monastery in Germany? Author Shaun McAfee (Compendium of Eucharistic Miracles) joins host Matt Swaim on The Son Rise Morning Show to explore the history behind the Weingarten Blood Miracle. From its origins with Longinus the Centurion to its historical transfer involving Judith of Flanders, Shaun unpacks th
Overcoming Big and Small Temptations with Deacon Nathan Beiersdorfer on The Son Rise Morning Show
How can we fortify our souls against both major spiritual battles and the daily "gnats" of small temptations? Deacon Nathan Beiersdorfer, President of the Good Shepherd Catholic Montessori School, joins host Anna Mitchell on The Son Rise Morning Show to continue walking through St. Francis de Sales' classic Introduction to the Devout Life. Drawing lessons from St. Benedict of Nursia, Deacon Nathan
Acts 2:38 & The Biblical Case for Baptismal Regeneration with Dr. Karlo Broussard on The Son Rise Morning Show
When St. Peter tells the crowd on Pentecost to "repent and be baptized every one of you... for the forgiveness of your sins," does he mean baptism actually forgives sins, or is it just a symbolic gesture? Dr. Karlo Broussard, Director of Apologetics for Catholic Answers and author of Baptism Now Saves You, joins host Anna Mitchell on The Son Rise Morning Show. Karlo breaks down St. Peter’s f
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