Deacon Al Lundy reflects on the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, connecting Labor Day and the dignity of work with the recent canonizations of St. Carlo Acutis and St. Pietro Frassati.

He explains what canonized sainthood means, reviews the readings from Wisdom, Paul’s letter to Philemon (and Onesimus), and Luke’s call to carry the cross, emphasizing humility and putting God first.

The episode encourages prayer, devotion to the Eucharist, and a commitment to growth in virtue as the path to becoming saints in daily life.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org

Bob Johnston interviews Kent Lasnowski about San Damiano College for the Trades in Springfield, Illinois, a new Catholic men’s college rooted in Franciscan and Norbertine tradition that seeks to “rebuild the church” by integrating faithful formation and classical learning with hands‑on training in the seven construction trades.

The episode outlines the college’s current one‑year non‑degree formation program with trade exposure, plans for an associate degree, its strong Catholic identity and religious partnerships, and how the school prepares students for meaningful, durable work and apprenticeship opportunities.

https://www.sandamianotrades.org/

Deacon Al Lundy shares a warm, personal reflection mixing everyday stories — broken church air conditioning, a new robotic lawnmower named Mo — with a clear explanation of the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time readings. He explores Isaiah’s call to gather nations, the Hebrews’ teaching about God’s discipline, and Jesus’ challenge to enter through the narrow gate, urging perseverance, prayer, and consideration of RCIA/OCIA for those interested in joining the Catholic Church.

Email your questions to Deacon AL: goodnews@catholicspiritradio.org