After getting back from the synod, I came down with what I believe to be COVID. I’ve been feeling extremely sick the last two days, and am still sick as a dog this morning. I request your prayers for quick healing so that I can stay on top of my school work and video content. As of right now, getting out of bed is a challenge…I’d like that to change. Thank you in advance for the prayers!
Since I’m sick, I wanted to take a moment to talk about suffering. And for risk of sounded deluded, I recognize that being sick in bed isn’t a great example of suffering. However, being sick has made me realize how when things in our lives change suddenly for the worse, it becomes difficult to do basic things that we take for granted.
I take for granted going to mass each week. I take for granted being able to film videos, write papers, and interview guests. I take for granted the ability to walk, drive, and spend time in nature. Heck, I even take for granted spending time with my wife.
The point is, suffering often brings with it a reminder that nothing in this life is guaranteed besides death and our eternal destiny. Thus, in my sickness I am reflected on those who cannot attend mass for fear of martyrdom; those who don’t even have a concept of online theological discourse because it is forbidden in their country; those who say goodbye to their spouse with no guarantee they’ll see them again — even those who have lost a spouse.
I’m humbled that in my state of sickness, I’m angry that I cannot compete tasks that I take for granted. Shame on me.
May we look at all things as a gift of God, cherishing something as simple as waking up each day as a sign of God’s providence and call to purpose for us in the world.
Be blessed.
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!
