TruthPop

The 7th Commandment... This one’s one that sounds pretty simple on the surface — “You shall not steal.” Most of us probably think, I don’t rob banks, I don’t swipe candy bars from the store… I’m good!” But like most of the Commandments, the Seventh one goes way deeper than we think. It’s not just about stealing—it’s about stewardship, justice, and love. In the beginning, God gave us this beautiful Earth and said, “Take care of it.” He didn’t say, “This is yours, keep everyone else out.” He said, “Be stewards.” Meaning, take care of what you have — not just for yourself, but for others too. The Catechism actually says that everything on Earth is entrusted to humanity’s care. We can own things, but ownership isn’t supposed to be selfish. It’s a way to serve others. That’s kind of a mindset shift, isn’t it? What if instead of asking, “What’s mine?” we asked, “How can what I have help someone else?” It reminds me of that moment with Zacchaeus in the Gospel — the tax collector who climbed the tree to see Jesus. When Jesus came to his house, Zacchaeus basically said, “Lord, I’ll give half my possessions to the poor, and if I’ve cheated anyone, I’ll pay them back four times over.” That’s repentance in action. That’s what the Catechism calls reparation—making things right when we’ve taken something unjustly. And this commandment doesn’t just deal with money or stuff. It’s also about respecting people and creation. It even forbids slavery and using others for personal gain. That’s powerful — because it shows that “stealing” can mean taking someone’s dignity or freedom, not just their property. And it even extends to animals! We’re called to treat them with kindness. God gave us creation to care for — not to exploit. That means how we consume, how we waste, how we treat the environment — it all ties into the Seventh Commandment. When I waste food or buy stuff I don’t really need, I have to ask myself — am I being a good steward of what God gave me? And then Jesus takes it even further in Matthew 25, where He says, “Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.” Because it’s not just about not stealing — it’s about actively giving. The Seventh Commandment calls us to generosity — giving alms, loving the poor, doing works of mercy. Feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, visiting the sick — those are all ways we show that we’re not attached to stuff, but attached to God. It’s funny how Jesus flips things. He’s not saying, “Don’t own anything.” He’s saying, “Don’t let what you own own you.” True freedom comes from trusting that God provides — and that what we have is meant to bless others. So maybe take a second and ask yourself — how attached am I to my stuff? Yeah… how quick am I to share my time, my resources, my money, even my attention? Maybe it’s not about stealing in the obvious way, but about those subtle ways we “take” — like taking credit, taking advantage of someone’s generosity, or hoarding what we could be sharing. Living out the Seventh Commandment is about living with open hands. Receiving everything as a gift from God, and offering it back to Him through love of others. So next time you think of “You shall not steal,” remember — it’s not just about what we don’t do. It’s about how we give, share, and care. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Jake and Cathy sit down with Austin Kelly, CEO of ChristianChannel.com, a growing faith-based streaming and podcast network dedicated to sharing inspiring movies, documentaries, and stories rooted in the Catholic faith. Austin is also the Co-Creator and Director of the independent Catholic TV series Knights of the Cross — a cinematic retelling of faith, sacrifice, and courage during the Crusades. In this episode, Austin shares the story behind starting Christian Channel, how it led to the creation of Knights of the Cross, and the deeper mission driving his work. He also gives a glimpse into his vision for the future of Christian media and how storytelling can evangelize in a digital world. You can help to crowdfund this project and have your name added to the ending credits with a $149 pledge at Donorbox.org/Knights. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8 

Would you give up everything for God? In this episode, Jake and Cathy chat with Catherine Macora, a lay consecrated woman with Regnum Christi, who did just that — and found peace, purpose, and deep joy in return. Catherine shares what it’s like to live in community, serve on mission, and discover freedom in total surrender to Christ. Her story will challenge and inspire you to listen for God’s voice in your own calling. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

True love requires true freedom—and that’s why understanding the Sixth Commandment is so important. Hey it's Cathy and Jake, and here's another Catholic Kernel of Truth. God actually has a beautiful plan for love, marriage, and sexuality. When we understand His design, we experience real freedom and joy—the kind of love our hearts are craving. In Matthew 5, Jesus says: “You’ve heard it said, ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ but I say to you, everyone who looks at someone with lust has already committed adultery in their heart.”  This begins on what is going on inside—our hearts, our desires, the way we see other people. Jesus cares about the whole person. The reason God cares so much about sexuality is because He designed us—male and female—in perfect equality and complementarity. God made us for love in the deepest sense, so that we may be a self-gift. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says that God gave each of us a sexual identity that involves both body and soul. Sexuality is meant to be oriented toward marriage and family, where that love can be total, faithful, fruitful, and free. (CCC 2331-2334) And all baptized Christians are called to chastity—not just single people or priests, but everyone. It looks different depending on your state of life: celibacy, faithfulness in marriage, or living chastity as a widow or widower. Chastity involves self-mastery and the cardinal virtue of temperance. (CCC 2337-2349) Lust is the opposite of love. Love gives; lust takes. Lust sees someone as an object instead of a person. The Catechism points out that sins of pornography, fornication, adultery, and masturbation are ways we can misuse God’s gift of sexuality. They isolate sexual pleasure from its real purpose: love and life together. (CCC 2396) The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that "homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered." They are contrary to the natural law. They close the sexual act to the gift of life.” The Catechism goes on to explain that those with same-sex attraction must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Same-sex attraction is a cross and those who choose to live a chaste life are living out this commandment. (CCC 2357-2358) When man and woman give themselves totally to each other in marriage, they become co-creators with God. Marriage has this twofold purpose: the good of the spouses and the transmission of life. And that’s why the Church teaches that contraceptives or sterilization go against God’s plan—they close off the openness to life. The Church does allow for Natural Family Planning, which is discerning to space out children for just reasons. It involves engaging during certain times of a woman's cycle. (2368-2370) And just like us, some couples struggle with infertility. It’s a very heavy cross, yet the Catechism says a child is always a gift, not something “owed.” Techniques like IVF, sperm and ovum donation, surrogate uterus, and artificial insemination sadly separate procreation from the loving union of husband and wife. However even if a couple can't have a biological child, God can bring incredible spiritual fruitfulness when this suffering is united to Him on the Cross. (CCC 2376-2379) So, to live this out practically, we must see people the way God sees them—as whole persons, body and soul. It means being intentional about what we look at online, how we think, and how we talk about love and marriage. And when we mess up... that’s what confession is for. God isn’t waiting to tear us down; He wants to restore us to freedom and joy. Here’s our challenge for you this week: Ask God to help you see others—and yourself—with His eyes. Where do you need healing in the area of love and chastity? And remember, God’s plan for love isn’t about rules to punish you or make you feel bad about yourself; it’s about freedom to love fully. He wants our hearts to be whole. 

Jake and Cathy catch up with Catholic singer-songwriter Aly Aleigha to talk about her journey of drawing hearts to Christ through music. She shares how the Camino inspired “Wait Out the Rain” and teases the story behind Aurora —a new song born from something that helped her and her now-husband through a long-distance relationship. Plus, get a sneak peek at her August 30 concert at the Cup O’ Joy in Green Bay. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Today… we’re tackling a commandment you might be tempted to skip over in your examination of conscience. The fifth commandment: “You shall not kill.” Now if you’re anything like me, your first thought might be: “Well, I haven’t murdered anyone. I’m good here. Let’s move on.” But, Jesus takes this commandment, like He does all the others, and flips the script. He says in Matthew 5:22: “Everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment.” So it’s not just about murder. It’s about the heart behind it. It’s about the ways we choose death over life in our words, actions, even in the quiet corners of our souls. Life is Sacred The Catechism of the Catholic Church (2258) reminds us that human life is sacred—from the moment of conception to natural death—because we are made in the image of God. You, me, every person we meet carries a divine fingerprint. So to harm another human being is dishonoring the Creator. No one has the right to destroy an innocent human life. And that truth is really the foundation for everything else the Church teaches about life—from abortion, to euthanasia, to suicide, and to war. Life is not ours to take. It’s ours to protect. What About Self-Defense? Now someone might ask, “But what if someone is trying to kill me? Or hurt my family?” The Church teaches that self-defense can be permitted. If you’re in a situation where force is needed to protect yourself or others, it can be morally justified as long as your intention is to preserve life, and not to kill. But to go beyond what is  necessary crosses a line. (CCC 2263–2265) It’s all about intention. Protecting life is the goal—even in conflict. Abortion & Euthanasia The fifth commandment also applies to abortion which the US Bishops have delcared as the preeminent issue. The Church teaches clearly (CCC 2270) that human life must be protected from the moment of conception. The unborn child in the womb is not just “potential life”- it is human life, and life, even in its most vulnerable form, has value. The same goes for euthanasia. Ending the life of someone who is sick or disabled—even with good intentions—is not the answer. Every person, no matter their condition, deserves respect and care. That doesn’t mean we have to prolong suffering at all costs—sometimes it’s okay to stop treatments that are extreme or burdensome. But there’s a difference between letting someone die naturally and intentionally causing death. (CCC 2276–2278) Suicide, Mental Health, and Mercy This commandment also brings to mind a very difficult and sensitive topic: suicide. The Church teaches that suicide goes against the love of self, love of neighbor, and love of God. But it also teaches that mental illness, trauma, and deep suffering—can lessen a person’s responsibility. (CCC 2280–2283) So, if you’ve lost someone to suicide know, the Church does not condemn them. In fact, we pray for them. We entrust them to God’s mercy—because only He knows the depths of their pain. And if you’re struggling yourself, please—reach out. You are loved. You are not alone. Call 988 to talk to someone who can help, or visit the 988 Lifeline. Words That Hurt, Scandal That Kills The Fifth Commandment also covers what we might call “everyday violence”—not just physical, but emotional and spiritual. Have you ever said something that crushed someone’s spirit? Have you ever gossiped, slandered, or lashed out in anger? Anger and hatred can kill, even if no blood is spilled. Then there’s scandal—leading someone else into sin. That, too, is a form of spiritual death. If our actions cause someone else to fall away from God, that is serious. (CCC 2284) Caring for Our Own Lives This commandment includes how we treat our own bodies. Life is a gift entrusted to us, and we’re stewards of it. That means taking care of our health, avoiding addiction, being mindful of food, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. (CCC 2288–2291) God wants us alive—not just physically, but fully alive in Him. Peace Over Anger So how do we start to live this out? It begins with peace. Jesus tells us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. Not just tolerate them. Love them. Easier said than done, right? But that’s the challenge of the 5th Commandment. It’s not just a “don’t do bad things” rule. It’s a call to actively protect and promote life in all its forms. So ask yourself: Do my words build others up—or tear them down? Do I hold onto grudges or offer forgiveness? Am I honoring the gift of my own life—body, mind, and soul? Do I value all life, even the ones society says are disposable? This commandment is so much more than “Don’t kill.” It’s a lifestyle. A posture. A way of loving that honors the sacredness in every single person—including yourself. So this week, look for ways to choose life: Apologize. Forgive. Speak kindly. Defend the vulnerable. Take care of your body. Be patient. Let go of bitterness. And above all—remember that your life, and the lives around you, are not random or disposable. They are precious, on purpose, and worth protecting. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

In the midst of pain, where is God? Does He care? In this episode, Jake and Cathy explore the reality that we live in a fallen world where suffering is inevitable. They unpack the dangers of “manifesting” and the tendency to leave God out of our hopes and desires. Instead, they offer a Catholic perspective on redemptive suffering - how God can use pain and trials to purify us, draw us closer to Him, and bring about deeper healing and purpose. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

You might think the fourth commandment “honor your father and mother” is just for kids… but actually it applies to you too.  🏡 Honoring Beyond Obedience The Fourth Commandment does include obedience when you’re young like the classic “listen to your mom and dad” and “do your chores” thing. But the Catechism of the Catholic Church, in paragraph 2197, reminds us that this commandment reveals the order of charity. When we’re children, the very next people we’re called to love after, God, are our parents. This is because we owe them our life, and everything they’ve poured into raising us. 🕊️ The Family as a Reflection of God The family, according to the Catechism, is a “communion of persons” that reflects the Holy Trinity. (CCC 2205) Your family—even with all its imperfections—has a divine origin and purpose. The family is called the domestic church—the place where we first learn to love, forgive, pray, and serve. It’s in family life that we begin to understand who God is, what love looks like, and how we’re meant to live in the world. (CCC 2204–2206) 💬 Respect Goes Both Ways Honoring your parents continues on into adulthood. CCC 2218 tells us that adult children should give their parents material and moral support, especially in times of illness or loneliness. Think of the dignity that brings—to care for the ones who once cared for us. But also, parents have responsibilities too! The Catechism says that parents are called to be the first teachers of the faith. (CCC 2221) That means they’re supposed to help their children grow not just physically, but spiritually—to create a home full of love, forgiveness, respect, and virtue. This is a mutual calling. Parents honor their children by seeing them as children of God, not extensions of their own ego or dreams. They guide them, but they also give them the freedom to follow God’s call, not just Mom and Dad’s expectations. (CCC 2230) 👨‍🏫 Not Just Families—Also Bosses, Teachers, Leaders But this commandment isn’t just about family. It also extends to anyone who has a rightful authority in our lives. This includes teachers, leaders, pastors, employers… even the government. CCC 2199 points out that this honor extends to society at large. It’s about living with gratitude and respect, even when it’s not always easy. ✨ So… What About You? So what about you? Who are the people in your life that you are called to honor? Maybe it’s your aging parents. Maybe it’s that boss who challenges you. Maybe it’s being a parent yourself and realizing the weight of that responsibility. Here are some things to ask yourself: -How intentional am I in honoring my parents, even now as an adult? -Do I lead with love and virtue in my own household? -Am I respectful to those in authority, even when I disagree? -Do I live in a way that shows gratitude for those who have helped form me? The 4th Commandment isn’t about power or rigid obedience. It’s about love, honor, gratitude, and mutual responsibility. When we live it out, our families and communities start to reflect something much bigger—the heart of God Himself. So, wherever you are today—whether you’re a parent, child, employee, or student, ask yourself: How can I live the 4th Commandment more fully? You might just find more peace and harmony in your relationships… and also in your soul. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Nathan Lancaster, a missionary with the Holy Spirit Newman Center at the University of Kentucky, opens up about the moment that changed everything—SEEK 2019 from FOCUS. What began as a personal encounter with Christ turned into a life of full-time mission on a college campus. In this episode, Nathan shares what it's really like to walk alongside students in their search for meaning, truth, and purpose—and why so many young adults are being drawn into the beauty of the Catholic faith today. Whether you're in college, in ministry, or just curious about how faith comes alive in Gen Z, this conversation will inspire and challenge you. 🎧 Listen in for stories of transformation, bold mission, and hope in unexpected places. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Ever feel like your prayers for a miracle are going unanswered? In this episode, Jake and Cathy open up about how easy it is to chase happiness in all the wrong places—when Jesus is the only one who can truly satisfy. They talk about what it means to put God first, and how real peace comes when our lives are centered on Him. Plus, they unpack the idea that hope isn't about expecting a specific outcome—it's about trusting Jesus with whatever comes next. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Yesterday we were introduced to our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV! Jake and Cathy share what could be at the heart of his pontificate and how the papacy can help us deepen our Catholic identity. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Have you ever had that moment where someone important remembers your name? Like a boss, or a teacher, or maybe someone you really admire. Doesn’t that feel amazing? It’s like—whoa, I exist. I matter. I’m not just a face in the crowd. Did you know that God started His relationship with us by doing something really vulnerable? In Exodus chapter 3, God appears to Moses in the burning bush, and Moses asks, basically, “Okay… you want me to tell people who sent me. What’s Your name?” And God says: “I AM who AM.” This is more than a name. It's a revelation. God isn't just giving Moses a label—He's revealing His essence. His eternal, all-present, never-changing being. And He does it out of… trust. And that brings us to the 2nd Commandment: “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.”Now, a lot of people think this just means “don’t misuse God's name” And yeah, that’s part of it—but it’s deeper than that. The Catechism paragraph 2143 says that God confides His name to those who believe in Him. That’s so personal. Like giving someone your deepest password. He’s saying, “I want to be known by you… but please don’t misuse what I’ve entrusted to you.” This name is holy. And when we use it lightly or disrespectfully, it’s like we’re trampling on that sacred trust. If someone you love shared something deeply personal with you—like a childhood wound or a secret dream—and then you joked about it in public… that would hurt, right? That’s what we do when we throw around God’s name like it’s just another word. CCC 2146 says the second commandment even forbids blasphemy—not just misusing God’s name, but the names of Mary and all the saints, too. These names aren’t just “religious people.” They’re family. They’re part of our spiritual household. We’re called to honor them. And then we get into oaths. Jesus said something that really challenges the way we speak. In the Sermon on the Mount, He says: “You shall not swear falsely… But I say to you, do not swear at all. Let your ‘yes’ be yes and your ‘no’ be no.” CCC 2150-2153 reminds us—oaths aren’t casual. If you swear something in God's name and don’t mean it, that's not just a lie—that’s taking His name in vain. That’s serious. When we’re baptized—we’re marked “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” CCC 2156 says that God’s name sanctifies us in that moment. Like, you’re branded with heaven. You become His. And then—God calls each of us by name. CCC 2158 says that everyone’s name is sacred. And not just for now, but for eternity. God doesn’t forget your name. Ever. He says, “I see you. I know you. You’re mine.” So when we talk about not using God’s name in vain—it’s not about rules for the sake of rules. It’s about love. It’s about respecting Someone who trusted us with something holy. It’s about speaking with care. Living with reverence. Letting our words reflect the weight and beauty of the relationship we’ve been given. So, maybe today we pause. How do we use His name? When we’re frustrated… when we’re joking… when we’re texting. Are we honoring the God who loved us enough to tell us His Name? --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

As the Catholic Church grieves the loss of our Holy Father, we give thanks to God for the witness Pope Francis gave us. He taught us to always remember the poor and forgotten. Jake and Cathy reflect on his legacy and what they appreciated most about him. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Whatever cross is in your life right now, Jesus is there to strengthen you and give you grace. This Good Friday, Jake and Cathy reflect on the suffering Jesus experienced. You can receive the heavenly glory He won for you on the Cross. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Relics exist around the country, but there hasn't been a central database on where to locate them... until now. Anthony Di Mauro founded The Relic Project as a way to make it easier to access the saints and help you in your journey of faith.

Relics of the saints are scattered across the U.S.—but until now, there’s been no easy way to find them. Enter The Relic Project, founded by Anthony Di Mauro, a game-changing initiative to help Catholics like you connect with the saints, grow in faith, and rediscover the beauty of relics in our modern world. Whether you're craving spiritual inspiration or planning a pilgrimage, TheRelicProject.org is your new go-to resource. Let the saints guide you. Let their stories inspire you. Let their presence transform you. Explore more here.

Jake and Cathy talk to Seph Schlueter, popular artist and founder of Damascus Worship, about how to be grateful for blessings even when times are difficult. He also shares how Catholics can be a bridge of unity among Protestant denominations. You can hear his music on our 24/7 Christian music radio station called TruthPop Radio! Listen any time at truthpop.net or on the free Live365 app. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

When you're looking for hits that fill your faith, be sure to check out our new online Christian music radio station! TruthPop Radio can be streamed 24/7. You'll hear songs and commentary that encourage you in your faith. Listen any time at truthpop.net or on the free Live365 app for your smartphone. (Google Play version available here.) Inside the app, search for "Truth Pop." In this new podcast series, Jake and Cathy recommend the song "The Truth" from Megan Woods. It's a powerful ballad that reminds us of our identity and worth in Christ. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

Sharing the faith can be daunting; that's why Jacob Ciccarelli and his team founded Truthly, the Catholic Action app. Jake and Cathy caught up with him at SEEK; learn more about how you can strengthen your evangelization skills through artificial intelligence. Check out their website here! --------------------------------------------------------------------------- "music by audionautix.com" Adventures by A Himitsu https://soundcloud.com/a-himitsu Music released by Argofox https://youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQE Music provided by Audio Library https://youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8

What is a day on set at 'The Chosen' like? Jake and Cathy sit down with Giavani Cairo, who plays St. Jude on the acclaimed series. He shares how the show helped to revitalize his faith and how he has grown in devotion to St. Jude from playing his character.