One of the most neglected virtues in our modern west is the virtue of self control. Everyone is chasing immediate gratification, instant dopamine hits, and of course novelty. This lack of self control manifests in many forms: from the success of fast food, the convenience of online shopping, to the easy access to pornography. The truth is, all of these things curb the ability to have true self control—and it shows.
Therefore, one of the most important ways in which we can embody Mere Catholicity is through exerting self control in these areas—and many other areas of our lives. Learning self control isn’t easy. Most of us have deep rooted coping mechanisms that we turn to in difficult situations, or when we feel bored. For me, I can very easily end up on YouTube at random points during the day, clicking from one video to the next. Sometimes I don’t even know why, or how, I ended up there. For you, perhaps it is similar. I have combatted this temptation by installing software on my computer that blocks YouTube during work hours, enabling me to devote tremendous amounts of time of uninterrupted focus to my responsibilities and tasks.
Much of our lack of self control stems from an avoidance of the things that God has called us to do: our responsibilities.
So my challenge to you is this: what makes you different than the world? Are you living a life of self control? Are you doing all things unto the Lord? And you seeking instant gratification? Or are you showing patience and self control?
May the Lord help us build this important virtue!
This is the first video reflection for the Great Fast.
Welcome to the Mere Catholicity Locals Community! Here, you will find like-minded Christians with a desire to live ecumenically and pursue Christ in all things.
The Mere Catholicity movement runs only through listener support. The work that I (Jonah) do requires time and money. Without the financial support of my Locals community, I would not be able to continue making content. Simple as that. It is only thanks to this group that I can continue providing you with content that (hopefully) both edifies and challenges!
The good news for you is that joining the community itself is completely FREE! Once you sign up, you will be able to see most posts, live streams, and even content posted by other users. However, you will only be able to observe. You will not be able to comment, post, or see any exclusive content. This might be a good way to see if you want to support later down the line. So please join! Even if you cannot afford to give at this time!
Now, for those who do wish to give ...
Friends - as I consider the various platforms that I operate, I find Substack to the most conducive to the model of online ministry that I am aiming for. Though I still plan to post here, as many of you still support me through this platform, Substack is where I will be focusing the majority of my time. If some of you wish to move your subscription from here to Substack, you are welcome to do that. Those who continue to support here, I will continue to post here — mostly the stuff that is behind the paywall on Substack so that you are getting the exclusive content regardless of where you are subscribed.
Hope you all are doing well. Lord bless you.
- Rev. Jonah
I've been gone again for a time preparing for my ordination. I was ordained a Deacon in the Holy Catholic Church on March 8th, 2025.
It was a joy beyond words. I am now back in full swing with ministry, media, and work.
I hope you all have been doing well. More to come soon.
Good morning everyone. I wanted to quickly update you on the Mere Catholicity Podcast. I’ve been posting videos on my channel, but it has been quite sometime since my channel has had a podcast episode release.
With my new job as a classical teacher, scheduling interviews has been a challenge. However, my plan is to use my summer breaks as time to double down on planning and recording new podcasts. The idea will be to record a ton of interviews that will then slowly release throughout the school year, expiring around the time the following summer arrives. This will ultimately result in a consistent once a month interview.
All that to say, the podcast will resume here in May or June of 2025 with some excellent interviews lined up!
Blessings on your Sunday!
