Épisodes

  • Homily - The Battle Within - Nov 2025 - Fr Paul Gardner (Academy)

    Homily - The Battle Within - Nov 2025 - Fr Paul Gardner (Academy)
    Nov 19 2025
    This episode features a powerful homily by Father Paul that delves into the internal battle between faith and temptation, using two biblical stories to define the necessary Christian virtue of integrity.

    Heroic Integrity in the Face of Death

    Father Paul recounts the tragic, yet heroic, biblical story from the Book of Maccabees. A Greek king attempts to force a Jewish mother and her seven sons to abandon their God by compelling them to eat forbidden food (pork).
    • The seven sons, and eventually the youngest, who was a teenager, are brutally tortured and killed in front of their mother for their faith.
    • The youngest son, in a final moment of confidence, chooses to feed his mind ("what I know to be good and true") rather than his fear, knowing his body would be replaced by a "new and better one in the eternal life to come".
    • This act of remaining faithful to God's commandments, even when faced with terrifying death, is held up as the supreme example of the virtue of integrity.
    The Battle of the Two Wolves

    To understand the daily nature of integrity, Father Paul shares the famous Cherokee legend about the two wolves:
    • An elder tells his grandson there is a war inside him between two wolves: one representing what he knows to be true and good (his mind) and the other representing his emotions and feelings (the things he wants to do).
    • The grandson asks which wolf will win.
    • The elder replies: "Whichever wolf I feed."
    Living with Integrity

    Father Paul connects this image to the daily reality of the Christian life:
    • Integrity is the choice to "choose what's good regardless of the circumstances".
    • The constant fight within us is between what we know to be right (prayer, study, virtue) and the impulsive emotions that urge us toward immediate comfort or sin.
    • We can choose to feed our minds by doing "repeated actions" of what we know to be true, making it easier to be strong each day.
    • Our minds are strong enough to make the right choice every single day, so we must not become slaves to our emotions.


    Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too.

    Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org.
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    12 min
  • Presentation - Band Concert Nov 2025 - Gerald Vetter (Academy & SMCHS)

    Presentation - Band Concert Nov 2025 - Gerald Vetter (Academy & SMCHS)
    Nov 16 2025
    This episode captures the opening remarks and presentation for the St. Mary's Central High School (SMCHS) Band Concert, featuring a significant announcement and a reflection on the school's musical history.

    Governor's Band Recognition

    The evening begins with the proud announcement that the SMCHS Band has been named and selected as the North Dakota Governor's Official State Band for the 2025-2026 school year. The school welcomes North Dakota First Lady Kjersti Armstrong and her assistant, Madeline Kirchoffner (an SMCHS alumna, Class of 2016).

    The band's official honors will include:
    • Playing at the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 2nd at 6:00 PM.
    • Selection by audition to play at the 2026 NDMEA Music Educators Conference in March.
    The Legacy of William "Bill" J. Schmidt

    The presentation shifts to celebrating the history of the Fine Arts at SMCHS and the dedication of the newly built auditorium, which is named after William J. Schmidt.

    Impact and Pride: The speaker notes that Bill's legacy continues through his former students, including the current SMCHS Band Director, Anne Chambers (Class of 2007), and band directors at other local high schools like Mandan (Jon Baumann, '91), Legacy (Mark Herold, '97), and Century (Chris Dasovick, '98).

    The episode concludes by welcoming the SMCHS Band to the stage for their performance, under the direction of Ann Chambers.

    Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too.

    Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org.
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    10 min
  • Homily - Veterans Day - Nov 2025 - Fr Paul Gardner (Academy)

    Homily - Veterans Day - Nov 2025 - Fr Paul Gardner (Academy)
    Nov 14 2025
    This special episode of Saints Replay features a homily delivered at Light of Christ Catholic Schools on Veterans Day, a day which also celebrates the feast of St. Martin of Tours, himself a veteran.

    The message centers on gratitude and meaningful living in light of the sacrifices made by veterans.

    Episode Highlights:
    • Gratitude for Veterans: A special welcome and expression of thanks to all veterans and their families for their inspiring presence and service.
    • The Price of Freedom: A reflection on the immense, often unpayable, cost of service, noting that those who fight in war put their whole lives on the line and are never paid adequately. The speaker contrasts this with a store offering a "30% discount" for those who gave "100".
    • Worship and Liberty: The homily highlights that many wars in the Old Testament were fought for the freedom to worship God, which remains the most important freedom, alongside the many rights and privileges Americans enjoy.
    • The Gift of Life: The talk draws parallels between the Israelites receiving unearned gifts upon entering the Promised Land—homes they didn't build and fruit from trees they didn't plant—and the unearned gifts and opportunities Christians receive. The very fact of existence is presented as proof of being loved.
    • Living Ardently: Drawing inspiration from St. Martin of Tours, the episode challenges listeners, especially young people, to avoid slacking off or finding life meaningless. St. Martin was described as a man who was "neither afraid to die, nor did he refuse to live".
    • A Call to Action: The most sincere way to thank a veteran is not just with words, but by living a meaningful life and ardently using the freedoms and opportunities they have won.
    Tune in to revisit this powerful message on sacrifice, duty, and living a life full of purpose and gratitude.

    Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too.

    Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org.
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    12 min
  • Homily - Nov 2025 - Virtue of Integrity - Fr Paul Gardner (Academy)

    Homily - Nov 2025 - Virtue of Integrity - Fr Paul Gardner (Academy)
    Nov 14 2025
    This episode features a homily from Father Paul addressing an apparent contradiction in the day's readings: St. Paul summarizes all laws with "Love your neighbor as yourself," while Jesus states, "Unless you hate your father and mother... you cannot follow me".

    The Love Hierarchy

    Father Paul explains that Jesus is using an exaggerated statement to drive home a crucial point: If you love somebody more than you love God, you don't actually love that person at all.
    • The most loving thing you can do for someone is to want them to be with God.
    • He shares a story about a married couple whose parents prayed that they would find spouses who loved God more than they loved them, recognizing that this is the foundation for a truly loving marriage.
    • This points to the ultimate rule: love God above all things.
    The Virtue of Integrity

    To help the faithful love God above all, Father Paul introduces the virtue of the month: Integrity.
    • Definition: Integrity means being consistent in being good, regardless of the circumstances.
    • He argues that if you are virtuous around some people (like parents) but not others (like friends), you don't have the virtue at all—you are actually making yourself worse at that virtue.
    • He shares a personal, regretful story from his youth where a struggling teammate came to him for Godly advice, but Father Paul, out of insecurity and a desire to fit in, told him to retaliate instead of forgive. This illustrates the danger of lacking integrity.
    Saints as Examples of Integrity

    Father Paul gives two powerful examples of saints who chose integrity, even when it meant defying those they loved:
    • St. Jose Luis Sanchez del Río: At a young age, this Mexican Cristero rebel refused to deny Christ, even when the government tortured him (cutting off the soles of his feet and forcing him to walk) and even when his own parents told him to cave in.
    • St. Kateri Tekakwitha: This Native American convert made a vow of virginity at 14 and refused to marry, despite her parents trying to force her. She also refused to work on Sunday, leading her family to withhold food from her.
    Conclusion:

    Both saints loved their parents, but they loved God more. Their integrity means choosing the love of God, even when it is uncomfortable or works against the wishes of others, which in turn deepens the root of genuine love.


    Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too.

    Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org.
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    15 min
  • Presentation - Appreciation Mass - Oct 2025 - Gerald Vetter (SMCHS)

    Presentation - Appreciation Mass - Oct 2025 - Gerald Vetter (SMCHS)
    Nov 14 2025
    This episode features an address by Gerald Vetter, President of Light of Christ Catholic Schools, delivered at an appreciation event, highlighting the school system's tremendous growth, strong values, and future vision.

    A Legacy of Faith and Growth

    President Vetter begins by welcoming the community to the Our Lady of Victory Chapel and celebrating the foundation of Light of Christ Catholic Schools, noting that the system has grown to serve 1,542 students—a 44% increase in the last 12 years.

    The community's support has been instrumental in:
    • Unifying a dynamic school system.
    • Building necessary additions, including a 6th and 7th Grade Academy and a new high school.
    The Role of the Community

    The core mission is to form students with strong moral character and who are intelligent, creative thinkers—qualities the world needs more of. President Vetter offers deep thanks to the key figures who support this mission:
    • Parents: Thanked as the first teachers of faith and prayer, and for starting their children off on the right path, as echoed by the proverb: "Start children off on the way they should go".
    • Teachers and Staff: Hailed as the guides on the journey who carry the mission forward daily, supported by the belief that "No Catholic school can be effective without dedicated teachers".
    • Donors and Benefactors: Recognized as the builders of the future who quietly work behind the scenes to help every child find their voice and purpose.
    Looking to the Future: The Next Bold Step

    The address calls for continued momentum, emphasizing that the "work for now of building walls has been accomplished", but the mission must continue to focus on:
    • What is happening between the walls: The spiritual and academic growth of the students.
    • The New Initiative: The next bold step is the launch of the Light of Christ Catholic Schools Foundation. This initiative aims to plant "seeds today that will bear fruit in decades to come through endowed dollars" to ensure the future success of the schools.
    The Endowed FoundationThe foundation is designed to create sustainability and allow the schools to say "yes" to supporting families who need financial aid, better supporting employees, and enhancing curriculum and religious activities.

    The address concludes by reminding the community of their 75-year tradition of the annual St. Mary's Carnival (scheduled for January 30th-February 1st) and asking for God's continued blessing on the students and the mission.

    Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too.

    Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org.
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    17 min
  • Homily - Appreciation Mass - Oct 2025 - Fr Jake Magnuson (SMCHS)

    Homily - Appreciation Mass - Oct 2025 - Fr Jake Magnuson (SMCHS)
    Nov 14 2025
    This episode features a homily from Father Jake Magnusson delivered at an appreciation mass, exploring the tension between prayer and action using the Gospel story of Martha and Mary.

    The Gospel of Martha and Mary

    Father Magnusson reflects on the story where Martha is burdened with service ("much serving") while Mary sits at the Lord's feet, listening to him speak. Martha asks Jesus to make Mary help her, but Jesus replies, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, and it will not be taken from her.".

    The Better Part: Prayer and Work

    Father Magnusson explains that the lesson from this passage is that Christians must do two things well: pray and work.
    • The Image of Our Lady of Victory: This necessity is beautifully illustrated by the history of the feast day, Our Lady of Victory (1571), where the Christian army was "outmatched" by the Muslim Turks. The Pope asked everyone to pray the Rosary for victory, but the soldiers still had to go out and fight the battle.
    • Ora et Labora: This reflects the monastic rule of the Benedictines ("Pray and work") who founded the school's institution.
    • The Better Part is Prayer: Jesus tells Martha that Mary has chosen the "better part", emphasizing that prayer is the most important thing. However, Jesus does not condemn Martha's service; rather, he reminds us that both prayer and work are necessary.
    Living Righteously

    Father Magnusson encourages listeners to find guidance in this balance:
    • Pray and ask God to bestow graces that we don't deserve.
    • Work and continue to "fight the battle for God, for goodness, for truth, for beauty".
    The episode concludes with gratitude for the community's generosity and a final prayer for the congregation.

    Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too.

    Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org.
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    8 min
  • Parent Rock - Raising Faithful Children in a Modern World - Oct 2025 (SMCHS)

    Parent Rock - Raising Faithful Children in a Modern World - Oct 2025 (SMCHS)
    Nov 12 2025
    This episode features a "Parent Rock" event at St. Mary's Central High School, where a panel including Father Jake Magnusson (Chaplain), Dr. James Link (University of Mary), and Mr. Brent Lysne (Dean of Students) answers submitted questions from parents on raising faithful children in the modern world.

    The panel discusses practical advice, discipline strategies, and the impact of technology on young people.

    Key Discussion Points & Advice:
    • Emotional & Mental Self-Care in Young Children:
      • It's important to understand children's development and meet them at their level when addressing emotions.
      • Parents should create a non-judgmental space for children to express feelings and learn to regulate their emotions.
      • Encourage children to pray "freely" and express what they want to pray for (not just who), helping them articulate their interior life.
    • The Cell Phone Ban:
      • The panel observed happier students and generally better communication since implementing the no-cell-phone rule.
      • Students now spend more time talking and visiting, especially in the mornings, rather than being engrossed in their phones.
      • Father Jake noted an increase in students seeking counsel and conversation, possibly because they have "nothing else to do".
      • Dr. Link emphasized that giving a child a phone early is rarely regretted; many parents wish they had waited. He also reminded parents that they don't need to be in constant contact with their children and that not having a phone will not mess up their mental health.
    • Discipline and Consequences:
      • Taking away non-essential items like phones, TV, or cars can be effective disciplinary actions, provided the parent remains loving and consistent.
      • Consequences should never damage the relationship; parents must follow through consistently, even when they are tired.
      • The goal is to teach discipline is about doing things you don't feel like doing.
      • Using housework as a consequence is effective because it is adverse to kids, teaches them discipline and the value of work, and doesn't inherently hurt them.
    • Coping Strategies for Teen Stress, Anxiety, and Depression:
      • Prioritize Sleep: Lack of sleep severely impacts mental health; 80% of teenagers are sleep-deprived.
      • Teach Deep Breathing: Good deep breathing (e.g., 4-7-8, Box, Cyclical) can be as effective as anti-anxiety medication and should be practiced.
      • Find Renewal: Help teens find activities that renew their spirit and recharge their "batteries" (mind, body, soul), moving beyond "doom-scrolling".
      • Mindset is Key: Encourage them to realize that they get to do certain things, rather than having to do them, and to act "as if" they want to do the work, which can eventually change their feelings.
    • Spiritual Growth in Elementary Children:
      • Young children understand faith better than adults often realize, but need language to articulate it.
      • Adults should help by asking open-ended questions about their drawings or feelings, allowing the child to discover and speak freely with the Holy Spirit.
      • To combat scrupulosity (the need to "earn" God's love), saturate children with the understanding that God loves them unconditionally; lead with love, not just rules.
      • Granting patience is vital, as consistent attendance at church is meaningful even if they don't seem to be paying attention.
    • Choosing a College/Career:
      • Visit the Campus: The perception of a school is often different from the reality; visiting is crucial.
      • Students often seek to escape their current life, but moving away won't solve problems. This inner "house" (the soul) will follow you everywhere.
      • The most important question is: "What does the Lord want?". If you follow God's will, even if it's difficult, you have a deeper certainty that he will be there to help you.
      • Support and affirmation are key; parents should offer their strong opinion once, but then trust and support their child's final decision.
    The event concluded with an invitation to Adoration and Confessions in the Chapel.

    Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too.

    Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org.
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    59 min
  • Homily - Oct 2025 - Vocations - Fr Stephen Vetter (Academy)

    Homily - Oct 2025 - Vocations - Fr Stephen Vetter (Academy)
    Nov 12 2025
    This episode features a lively homily given by Father Stephen Vetter, the Diocesan Vocation Director, who speaks to the young people about the three steps to a vocation, relating it to the concept of seeking holiness and self-discovery.

    Father Vetter opens by emphasizing that the young people have been "given a lot" and that he comes to them with a demand: to find their vocation.

    Vocations and "Ghost in the Graveyard"

    Father Vetter likens finding a vocation to the game "Ghost in the Graveyard," where the goal is to find the "ghost" (or Jesus).

    He outlines three key steps:
    1. Find Jesus: The first step to any vocation is finding Jesus, who is not hard to find. Father Vetter assures the listeners that if Jesus were playing "Ghost in the Graveyard," He'd be wearing a full suit of strobe lights—He's super easy to find and appears in broad daylight, especially at Mass and in their parishes. In fact, Jesus finds you, so you don't even have to look that hard.
    2. Find Yourself: The second step is to find yourself. Father Vetter acknowledges that self-discovery is not easy, especially when dealing with internal struggles, anger, or making bad decisions. He stresses that we are mysteries to ourselves. He encourages the students not to be afraid of what's inside, referencing Saint John Paul II's most famous line: "Be not afraid.". If you find Jesus first, He will be there with you to help you discover yourself.
    3. Pray for Others: The third, and really good, place to start—especially if you haven't found Jesus or yourself yet—is to pray for others to find Jesus and find themselves.
    A Gift and a Demand

    Father Vetter concludes by giving the students a gift: a prayer card featuring photos of the current seminarians (including eight new ones this year, many of whom sat in the same seats as the students).
    • He encourages the students to pick one seminarian.
    • He asks them to flip the card over and pray the Vocation Prayer on the back for that young man.
    • He states that these men are examples that Jesus can be found and are trying to figure out what God wants for their lives.
    • The students are reminded that someday, some of these seminarians may be the priests who are helping them find Jesus and find themselves.
    The episode closes with Father Vetter leading the young people in reciting the Vocation Prayer together.

    Being a SAINT Changes Lives, and when you give a gift to support our SAINTS, it changes your life too.

    Choose YOUR impact at lightofchristfoundation.org.
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    10 min