Feeding Fathers

What Should a Priest Wear on Bingo Night? [Ep. 47]

In this episode, we're talking all about priestly fashion—cassocks included. Should a priest wear one to something like a bingo night? We all gang up on Fr. Tristan about this and talk about the meaning behind what priests wear and how it reflects our calling.
We also dive into the powerful story of Peter and John healing the lame man in Acts—something the Chaldean Church celebrates on **Golden Friday**. It’s a reminder of how God still works miracles today and how important it is to stay rooted in Faith and community.

Holy Spirit & Pentecost: Accuser vs. Advocate and Bad Puns [Ep. 46]

🔥 What *actually* happened at Pentecost? And why does it matter today?
In this episode, we break down the power of the Holy Spirit, the meaning of Pentecost, and why it’s still life-changing. We dive into the spiritual battle between the *accuser* (Satan) and our *advocate* (the Holy Spirit), and what that means for your daily life.
You’ll hear reflections on scripture, stories from real life, and practical ways to grow in humility, prayer, and discernment. We also explore how the Church finds true unity—not by compromise, but through truth and love, echoing the words of Pope Leo.
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The Ascension: Victory, Glory, and Divine Timing [Ep. 45]

In this episode, Fr. Daniel, Fr. Andy, Fr. Simon, and Abbot Ankido dive deep into the mystery of the Ascension—breaking down what it means for heaven, earth, unity, human desire, and… God’s epic sense of timing.
👀 Expect:
– Witnessing the supernatural event
– Deep dives into suffering vs. glory
– The eternal vs. earthly dilemma
– AND a holy debate on the most divisive topic yet: Chicago-style pizza🍕

Talking Parables with the Monks [Ep. 44]

Fr. Simon is joined by Brother Augustine, Brother Sinan, and Fr. Abbot Ankido for a powerful and inspiring conversation. Together, they explore how to discover your true calling, the transformative power of God, and the deep meaning behind the parables of Jesus.
This episode dives into the importance of commitment in faith, the beauty of monastic life, and the strength found in spiritual community. They also reflect on Pope Leo’s insights into the Parable of the Sower and how structure and Liturgy can deepen your relationship with God.

Papal Aura and Italian Memes [Ep. 43]

We Have a New Pope—and He’s Got Aura! 🇻🇦✨
Fr. Simon and Fr. Tristan return from Italy with powerful stories and fresh insights! In this episode, they reflect on attending Pope Francis’s funeral and leading a pilgrimage to Rome. Fr. Simon shares what it was like to be in St. Peter’s Square during the election of the new pope—highlighting the mystery of the process and the dangers of speculation and gossip.
Fr. Tristan tries to explain Italian AI brainrot to a skeptical Fr. Andy (you’ve got to hear this one), and the conversation turns toward deep themes: the role of humility and selflessness in Church leadership, and how to balance mountaintop spiritual experiences with everyday faith.
PLUS: We’re launching a new weekly segment where we react to the addresses and homilies of Pope Leo XIV—don’t miss it!

Foretaste of Heaven and German Food [Ep. 42]

We have an intriguing discussion about the profound love completed in Heaven. We also discuss the essence of Christian life, emphasizing the importance of building a true relationship with Jesus over merely performing duties. We share thoughtful insights on the motivations for seeking Heaven, the difficulties of maintaining faith and humility, and how societal pace impacts spiritual contemplation. And finally, we may or may not actually find out what Fr. Roni's favorite German food is...

The New Pope & New Sunday [Ep. 41]

We welcome Fr. Roni for the first time as we discuss 'New Sunday' in the Chaldean tradition (vs. Divine Mercy Sunday) and its rich history within the Church of the East. We unpack the historical perspectives and uncertainties surrounding the early documents of the Church of the East, its apostolic roots, and the figure of St. Thomas. And while everyone is speculating who the next Pope might be, we are stuffing our faces in birria tacos and wondering why Fr. Roni doesn't have a favorite food?

What Happens After a Pope Dies? [Ep. 40]

Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has passed away. The Chair of Peter is now empty. Join our discussion on what criteria make someone eligible for papacy, the historical significance of papal names, and the varying impacts popes have had on the Church. We reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis and his predecessors, shedding light on the complex yet fascinating aspects of Catholic tradition and governance. We also offer our predictions on what same the next pope will take on and, in very fitting fashion, we devour some delicious Italian sandwiches!

Intensity of Good Friday [Ep. 39]

Fr. Andy and Fr. Simon share meditations for Holy Week from the Chaldean Liturgy, highlighting the profound prayers of Passion Friday and Holy Saturday (Saturday of Light). They uncover the significance of one specific prayer ("madrashe") that focuses on the prophets waking up from their graves after Christ's Passion. Meditations like this one are so powerful and unique to the Church of the East.
Purchase "The Book of Before and After" here: https://a.co/d/0HMzOpd
Download the "Emmanuel Prayer" app
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Holy Week in the Chaldean Tradition [Ep. 38]

Fr. Simon and Fr. Andy sit down on this very special episode of 'Feeding Fathers' and delve into the rich traditions of the Chaldean Liturgy in preparation for Holy Week. Learn about the historical development of liturgical practices, the significance of the Basilica Hymns during Holy Week, and the spiritual reflections inherent in Palm Sunday celebrations. They explore the thematic elements of joy and sadness that frame Holy Week, using translation of texts from St. Ephraim and others from the Chaldean Liturgy.
 
Purchase "The Book of Before and After" here: https://a.co/d/0HMzOpd