Old St. Pat's Podcast

Think about all the people who helped shape you into the person you are today. Chances are, it wasn't just one person. It may have been a parent, a teacher, a coach, a neighbor, an uncle, or a family friend. In their own way, each stepped into your life with presence, encouragement, and loving guidance, reminding you that you didn't have to face life alone. It's in these moments that we realize God often works through a whole community of people. His love becomes tangible through those who show up, invest in us, and help us become who we are meant to be. And since we recently celebrated Father's Day, our attention turns especially to those who have played the role of a father. We are reminded that there are many ways to be a dad. In fact, you might say that dad is a verb. Fatherhood is not simply a title or a matter of biology. It's something you do. It's showing up. It's offering guidance, encouragement, and steadfast love. It's being present. Because the people who shape us most are often the ones who gave us life and the ones who gave us their time, their presence, and their love. Fatherhood is more than biology—it's a way of loving. In other words, it's choosing to "dad." This past Sunday, Ryan Malawy offered a special reflection at Mass on the many ways one can be a father and the profound impact father figures—whether dads, foster parents, stepfathers, grandfathers, mentors, neighbors, or friends—can have on the lives of those they love and guide.

Do you ever find yourself unexpectedly emotional when listening to a beautiful song? Maybe it's at a concert when thousands of voices join together, and suddenly you feel something stirring deep within you. Or perhaps you've gotten teary-eyed watching a loved one walk across a graduation stage, hearing a moving speech, or witnessing an act of kindness that seemed to restore your faith in humanity. Maybe it happens while standing before a breathtaking piece of art, watching a sunset over the water, or stepping into a sacred space that leaves you speechless. In those moments, it's almost as if a part of your soul has been recognized—seen in a way that words can't quite explain. Beauty has a remarkable power to stop us in our tracks. It bypasses our defenses, reaches beyond logic, and speaks directly to the soul. It reminds us that we are part of something larger than ourselves—a story filled with wonder, meaning, and grace. Sometimes our hearts recognize a truth before our minds can fully understand it. And perhaps that's why beauty can bring us to tears. Not because we're sad, but because for a brief moment we catch a glimpse of something holy, we catch a glimpse of God. In today's episode, Father Pat McGrath explores how beauty awakens compassion, reveals the dignity of every person, and opens our eyes to God's presence in the world around us. So the next time something beautiful brings tears to your eyes, pay attention. It just might be God speaking to your soul.

The Old St. Pat's Music Series Is Brought To You By The Old St. Pat's Choir The featured songs today are: One Bread One Body Holy Is Your Name Go Light Your World

The Old St. Pat's Music Series Is Brought To You By The Old St. Pat's Choir The featured songs today are: The Lord Is My Shepherd I Lift My Soul Be Thou My Vision