They That Hope: A Catholic Podcast

It’s the end of an era. After five years, Father Dave and Deacon Bob gather for the very last episode of They That Hope. True to form, the conversation blends laughter, sorrow, and a steady focus on Christ. The guys begin with one last round of sports heartbreak (Notre Dame, Broncos, and a Buccaneers game that hasn’t quite happened yet), plus Deacon Bob’s double-dose weekend of Weird Al concerts. Then they shift to reflect on the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk. They wrestle with grief and division, recognizing how fragile life feels, and wonder aloud how silencing faith-filled voices only deepens the darkness. Their reflection reminds listeners that vengeance belongs to the Lord, and that true hope is found in forgiveness, mercy, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Finally, they wrap up by sharing heartfelt listener letters, favorite memories from the past five years, and their gratitude for everyone who joined them at the “podcast table.” As they sign off with blessings and thanksgiving, Father Dave and Deacon Bob leave us with the reminder that hope does not disappoint—because the love of God has been poured into our hearts. Highlighted Sections (00:00) A Final Episode Begins Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick off their last recording with gratitude and laughter. The bittersweet tone is lightened by jokes about Notre Dame football and whether ending the podcast jinxed their favorite teams. It’s a familiar start for a farewell filled with humor and heartfelt reflection. (03:47) Weird Al, Walk-On Songs, and Family Fun Deacon Bob shares his weekend of back-to-back Weird Al concerts, complete with Stormtroopers, “Amish Paradise,” and plenty of costume changes. The story turns tender as he recalls memories of singing parodies with his kids, now grown. Father Dave teases along the way, but it’s clear these goofy songs carry a deep family legacy. (12:39) Grief and Division After Charlie Kirk’s Shooting They then turn to recent news: the shooting of Charlie Kirk. They talk about his willingness to engage in dialogue, how violence eats away at our sense of safety and unity, and how we sometimes silence or dismiss voices that carry hope for fear of disagreement. Despite the pain this brings, they look for grounding in Scripture—especially the call to love even our enemies as part of the Christian witness. (22:08) Forgiveness, Mercy, and Real Hope Building on the previous reflection, Father Dave and Deacon Bob draw from Deacon Bob’s homily and the testimony of Immaculée Ilibagiza to explore what it means to respond in a Christ-like way. In times when the world feels fractured, mercy and forgiveness become the clearest sign of that hope we proclaim. (35:44) Listener Letters, Thank-Yous, and Final Blessing Fans write in to share how the podcast shaped their faith, lightened their burdens, and even sparked personal transformation. Father Dave and Deacon Bob laugh through memories, thank their families and the Franciscan University team, and offer one last blessing. They end as they began five years ago—reminding us that hope does not disappoint, because God is faithful. Resources Mentioned The Saga BeginsWeird Al Yankovic Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust “The Light Shines In The Darkness” FaithAndReason.com

Two twenty-something saints, mountaineering, and Nike sneakers. Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati prove that holiness doesn’t mean leaving normal life behind—it means living it to the fullest with Christ. Father Dave and Deacon Bob reflect on Pope Leo’s homily at the canonization Mass for these two young Italians and explore why so many saints begin saying “yes” to God in their youth. True to They That Hope form, they take a lap through the weekend in sports, from NFL openers to US Open storylines to the enternal LeBron vs. Jordan debate. Then they settle into the title’s theme: modern sanctity. Carlo’s wisdom (“In front of the sun you get a tan; in front of the Eucharist, you become a saint”) and Frassati’s cry “to the heights!” frame a simple invitation: say “yes” to the Lord today. They close with campus updates, a prayer, and a warm invitation to share your favorite podcast memories. Saints Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, pray for us! Highlighted Sections (00:29) Jubilee of Hope and Merch Madness Father Dave and Deacon Bob kick things off with playful banter about sponsors, the Jubilee Year of Hope, and whether the pope might be a secret podcast listener. They also remind everyone there’s one last chance to snag They That Hope merch, including the highly prized Heather Khym mug, at CatholicToTheMax.com. (07:24) NFL, Tennis, and the LeBron vs. Jordan Debate They next jump into sports to discuss the NFL’s opening weekend, recap the US Open finals, and, of course, argue over The Athletic’s “Basketball 100.” Jordan or LeBron? The debate continues. (15:47) Franciscan Homecoming Preview Campus is buzzing for Homecoming Weekend with chapel tours, a St. Francis Festival, and alumni reunions. Father Dave and Deacon Bob share details on the newly renovated Christ the King Chapel and joke about who may—or may not—be getting awards at the banquet. (Pssst, sign up to join Homecoming at here.) (21:43) Five Years of Movies, Memes, and Memories Looking back on the podcast’s run, the hosts laugh about their obsessions (Hamilton, Top Gun, Black Widow) and reflect on milestones from solar eclipses to campus life during COVID. They recall both joyful and sobering moments, always framed through the lens of hope. (26:16) Modern Saints for Modern Times Next, they move into the heart of the episode: celebrating the canonizations of Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati. Father Dave and Deacon Bob highlight the families present in Rome, the youthful joy of both saints, and the reminder that holiness often begins with a simple “yes” lived in ordinary life. (32:54) Carlo’s Wisdom in His Own Words “In front of the sun you get a tan; in front of the Eucharist, you become a saint!” The hosts share Carlo’s best lines on joy, sin, and holiness, and revisit his Eucharistic Miracles project as a reminder of how young people enrich the Church. (35:37) Prayer and Sending Forth The episode closes with gratitude for these new saints, a prayer for their intercession, and a heartfelt thank-you to listeners. As the season draws to a close, Father Dave and Deacon Bob invite fans to send memories and well-wishes to Hope@Franciscan.edu. Resources Mentioned They That Hope Mug that Heather Khym Illegally Stole from Deacon Bob's House and Vandalized with Abiding Together Propaganda“The Basketball 100”FaithAndReason.comHomecoming WeekendPapal Chapel with the Rite of Canonization of Blesseds Pier Giorgio Frassati and Carlo Acutis“Blessed Carlo Acutis and the Many Miracles of the Eucharist”

Hope in Tragedy

Nicknames

What do typhoon evacuations, koala selfies, and second breakfast in Hobbiton have in common? They’ve all been part of Deacon Bob’s adventurous month. After a few weeks apart, Father Dave and Deacon Bob are back, swapping globe-trotting tales, ministry moments, and a surprisingly full slate of sports updates. Bob’s recent trip took him from the typhoon-swept Philippines to Singapore, Perth, Sydney, and a bucket-list stop in New Zealand’s Hobbiton (yes, complete with hobbit holes, the Green Dragon Inn, and second breakfast). Along the way, he preached to 90 youth leaders just hours after a typhoon hit, met a koala, saw kangaroos, and even met a listener named Rain who drove five hours just to hear him speak. There were plenty of memorable meals, from perfect pancakes to less-than-crispy bacon. Meanwhile, Father Dave stayed stateside, baptizing great-nieces (one walked to her own baptism), speaking at the Knights of Columbus Conference, and making a moving visit to the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City. He shares Rother’s remarkable story—from failing Latin in seminary, to obeying his bishop’s call to return to Guatemala, to his martyrdom in 1981—and the beauty of a shrine built right in the heart of the city it serves. Sports fans get plenty too: the debut of MLB’s first female umpire Jen Pawol (including her Hall of Fame–bound first pitch), Tom Brady’s towering new statue, and even a trivia challenge about the University of Michigan making draft history. Naturally, there are detours, including CGI vs. AI, bad sports statues, and ministry moments that transcended cultural boundaries. But through it all, the heart stays the same: joyfully sharing the Gospel, wherever God sends you (even if it’s to a sheep paddock in New Zealand). Highlighted Sections (00:00) Sports, Schedules, and Saying Goodbye The guys open with bittersweet news about the podcast winding down, why recording has gotten harder, and an invitation for listeners to share favorite memories. They then go into the week’s light sports slate and review the new Superman. Even with the end in sight, their trademark banter is alive and well. (05:41) Football, Statues, and Sports Trivia Deacon Bob previews a Buccaneers-Steelers preseason game while Father Dave looks forward to Steelers training camp. They discuss Tom Brady’s towering statue and celebrate Jen Pawol historic debut as MLB’s first female umpire. The segment wraps with a trivia challenge about a university making draft history in all four major leagues. (15:44) From Typhoons to Hobbit Holes Bob recounts ministry in the Philippines, Perth, and New Zealand, including speaking to youth leaders after a typhoon and connecting with alumni abroad. He describes walking through the Shire set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, complete with hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn. Jenny may not be a huge fan of the films, but even she found the tour magical. (23:42) Sydney, Koalas, and the Ends of the Earth From welcoming bishops to preaching across cultures, Bob reflects on moments when the Holy Spirit’s anointing was tangible. He shares encounters with young adults, a koala, and a listener who drove five hours to hear him speak. Each stop reaffirmed the universal joy of sharing the Gospel. (25:42) Baptisms, Knights, and Blessed Stanley Rother Father Dave talks about baptizing his great-nieces and representing Franciscan University at the Knights of Columbus Conference. He shares the moving story of Blessed Stanley Rother a missionary priest martyred in Guatemala, and describes visiting the shrine dedicated to him. The witness of Rother’s courage and devotion left a lasting impression. (32:37) Feast Days and a Chapel Blessing Looking ahead to the Feast of the Assumption they pray for peace amid global tensions. Father Dave previews the blessing of Franciscan University’s newly renovated Christ the King Chapel, while Bob outlines upcoming speaking engagements. The...

The July Episode

Pillow Fight!

Saints of Poland

There’s a new pope—and he’s an Augustinian! In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first member of the Order of St. Augustine to lead the Catholic Church. They explore why St. Augustine’s Confessions remains a spiritual masterpiece and how his vision of community, conversion, and interior prayer speaks to the Church’s call for renewal today. Naturally, they go off on many tangents, starting with a chilly trip to Cedar Point, detouring through spelling bee glory and NFL drama, and ending in Poland (via pilgrimage, not roller coaster). And yes, they say “Pope” a lot. Allegedly, it boosts downloads. (Spoiler: It works.) Highlighted Sections (00:00) T-Shirts, Field of Dreams, and the Pope Bump The episode opens with an early Father’s Day gift: a nostalgic T-shirt featuring Field of Dreams. This sparks a discussion about podcast stats and the surprisingly real “Pope bump,” where there seems to be an uptick in listeners anytime the pope is mentioned in the title. For science, they test it live. (03:45) Teacups, Tournaments, and the Cold Ride of Aging Deacon Bob recounts a brisk grandkid-filled day at Cedar Point, while Father Dave recaps the equally chilly Memorial Golf Tournament in Dublin, Ohio. Along the way, they correct a Jack Nicklaus/Jack Nicholson mix-up and debate whether roller coasters or golf better reveal our age. (10:28) Spelling Bees, Stage Fright, and Childhood Wins The Scripps National Spelling Bee champ nails “éclaircissement,” then collapses with joy. That memory sparks their own stories: Father Dave’s catechism bee victory and Deacon Bob’s state theater auditions. They reflect on the pressure of performing, the resilience it builds, and how these moments shape us. (16:11) Pope Leo XIV, St. Augustine, and Why Confessions Still Matters The first Augustinian pope opens the door to rich reflections on St. Augustine’s enduring legacy. Father Dave and Deacon Bob spotlight Return to the Heart by Dr. Shane Owens, which unpacks the biblical themes in Confessions for today’s reader. Owens also recently joined Father Dave for an episode of Franciscan University Presents to discuss how Augustine’s life and writings continue to guide hearts back to Christ. (21:05) Pentecost, Pilgrimages, and the Road Ahead Pentecost kicks off a summer of spiritual encounters: Heather Khym leads the first Glory: A Women’s Gathering, Deacon Bob heads to the LifeTeen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention, and Father Dave departs for a pilgrimage to Poland to visit sites connected to St. John Paul II, St. Faustina, and St. Maximilian Kolbe. They share the joys of ministry on the move and the fresh hope the Holy Spirit always brings. Resources Mentioned Return to the Heart: The Biblical Spirituality of St. Augustine's Confessions by Dr. Shane OwensSt. Augustine’s Confessions and Us with guest Dr. Shane OwensGlory: Women’s Gathering Steubenville Conference with Heather KhymLifeTeen Catholic Youth Ministry ConventionConfessionsPoland Pilgrimage: In the Footsteps of St. John Paul II & St. Faustina with Father Dave Pivonka, TOR

Thursday on Sunday

The NBA playoffs may be unpredictable, but at least summer blockbusters deliver. In this episode of They That Hope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob unpack the Cleveland Cavaliers’ devastating playoff collapse (RIP hope), debate baseball scandals from Pete Rose to steroid-era legends, and preview the biggest summer movies hitting theaters. From Marvel’s new Thunderbolts to the return of Mission: Impossible and a much-anticipated Fantastic Four reboot, they break down what’s worth watching and what might just be movie theater popcorn filler. Alongside the movie chatter and sports rants, Deacon Bob introduces an exciting revival of a powerful small group ministry: Discipleship Quads. This free resource fosters spiritual growth through intentional, weekly gatherings rooted in Scripture, catechesis, and deep personal sharing. With new momentum and even a Spanish-language version, the Quads model is helping people grow in faith and community across the country. (Check it out at dquads.com.) The episode wraps with reflections on Pope Leo XIV’s installation Mass, his moving words of humility, and the symbolic weight of receiving the Fisherman’s Ring. As the Church welcomes a new pope, Father Dave and Deacon Bob consider what might lie ahead in his papacy—including the possibility of a historic first visit to Ukraine. As always, expect humor, brotherhood, and a reminder that our hope isn’t in playoffs or premieres—it’s in Jesus. Highlighted Sections (00:00) Postseason Chaos and NBA Plot Twists Deacon Bob and Father Dave kick off the episode with a spirited sports recap, reacting to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ playoff collapse and the unexpected shape of the NBA postseason. They debate changing legacies, cheer for the Knicks, and comment on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ latest heartbreak in hockey. (05:23) Baseball Scandals and Hall of Fame Debates From debates over Pete Rose to steroid-era sluggers like Barry Bonds and Sammy Sosa, the hosts unpack the evolving conversation around integrity in baseball and eligibility for Cooperstown. (14:18) Speaking of Movies: Summer Blockbusters Begin Summer movie season kicks off with Marvel’s Thunderbolts, and Father Dave shares why this new team-up film hits just right. The duo also discuss upcoming blockbusters like Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and the much-anticipated reboot of The Fantastic Four: First Steps, as well as kids' flicks like How to Train Your Dragon and Lilo & Stitch going live-action. (23:11) A Ministry That’s Multiplying: Discipleship Quads Father Dave and Deacon Bob talk about Discipleship Quads—a free resource from Franciscan University that helps small groups grow in faith together. Recently refreshed with new materials and a Spanish-language version, this initiative is spreading globally and helping transform Catholic community life. (26:30) A Pope Named Bob (Sort Of): Leo XIV’s Installation Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration Mass moved the world—and the hosts—with moments of humility and reverence. They reflect on his powerful statement of servanthood and the symbolism of receiving the Fisherman’s Ring, traditionally used to seal papal documents. (32:10) Praying for Ukraine and Papal Diplomacy As the pope meets with global leaders, including U.S. officials, Deacon Bob and Father Dave explore the possibility of his first papal trip being to Ukraine. They also reflect on early reports of peace talks and the potential impact of a papal presence in times of global tension and reconciliation. Resources Mentioned Discipleship Quads – dquads.comHomily of Pope Leo XIV during the Mass of Inauguration of the Petrine Ministry – NCR Online.

Habemus Papam! The Church has a new pope—and he’s from Chicago. In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob react with joy, awe, and a healthy dose of disbelief to the election of Pope Leo XIV, a South Side Chicago native and fellow “Bob.” The first American pontiff, Leo XIV is an Augustinian, missionary, canon lawyer, and lifelong baseball fan with deep roots in both Villanova and Peru. His election is already making waves—and memes. Before diving into Vatican news, the hosts process a different kind of drama: sports heartbreak. Bob relives the Cleveland Cavaliers’ playoff collapse—one for the record books—and the deep disappointment that followed. Father Dave offers perspective (and a hopeful prediction) before they shift gears to highlight Franciscan University's Commencement weekend. From Mary Rice Hasson’s bold defense of the human person to Bishop Andrew Cozzens’ catechetical preaching, the event was a joyful witness to faith and truth. Finally, they unpack the significance of the name Leo, what this new pope may prioritize, and how the legacy of Pope Leo XIII—with his groundbreaking encyclicals on labor, justice, and the Holy Spirit—may resonate in the years ahead. From Chicago sports to conclave suspense, from Catholic memes to Marian devotion, this episode is a fast-paced blend of humor, reverence, and hope for the Church’s future under a pope who, as Bob puts it, “plays Wordle with his brother and orders from Wawa.” Resources Mentioned The Becket Fund for Religious LibertyRerum NovarumPope Leo XIV – Live Coverage and Commentary (Vatican News)

What does it feel like when the eyes of the world turn to the Sistine Chapel, as everyone waits for white smoke? In this episode, Father Dave and Deacon Bob explore the sacred mystery—and human drama—of a papal conclave. But first: baseball, astronauts, Marvel movies, and pierogies. Father Dave shares a powerful conversation with retired astronaut and U.S. Air Force General Kevin P. Chilton, who received the Eucharist in space. The hosts also discuss the lesser-known fact that Buzz Aldrin took communion on the moon, blending space exploration with sacred devotion. Meanwhile, Deacon Bob reflects on being left out of both that interview and a May the 4th Star Wars-themed baseball game (yes, stormtroopers and all), and offers a spoiler-free review of Marvel’s new film Thunderbolts. The hosts unpack the process of the papal conclave, exploring how the Holy Spirit leads (without micromanaging) the selection of a pope. They also respond to the controversial AI-generated image of Donald Trump dressed as pope—shared by official White House social media—and call for reverence during this pivotal moment in Church history. As always, the episode blends solemnity with laughter—from memories of first Communions and unforgettable Masses to hot takes on sports, politics, and pilgrimage. Resources Mentioned In Person interview with Astronaut Kevin Chilton – Faith and ReasonThe Becket Fund for Religious LibertyBuzz Aldrin Took Holy Communion on the Moon. NASA Kept it QuietErin Blakemore

Father Dave and Deacon Bob discuss the excitement of the NBA playoffs and NFL draft—and Franciscan University’s Night of Joy. Deacon Bob shares what it was like to watch Star Wars in the theater again in celebration of its 20th anniversary. They also touch on the Holy Father’s funeral, the ongoing preparations for the next pope's conclave, and the significance of St. Joseph the Worker and the value of work.

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob reflect on their Easter celebrations and awakening to the news of Pope Francis’ passing on April 21. They reflect on the pope’s humility, his heart for the marginalized, and his unshakeable love for Jesus as well as liturgical celebrations initiated by him and significant moments in his pontificate. They conclude by sharing Pope Francis' last Easter blessing.

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss Rory McIlroy's thrilling victory at the Masters and their failed attempt to attend a baseball game. They also reflect on the profound beauty of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil, encouraging everyone to participate fully. They also touch on Franciscan University alumni events, inspiring student stories, and the role of priests and deacons. They conclude with an invitation to support Franciscan University's Giving Day and Dcn. Bob's excitement about preaching at the upcoming “Night of Joy.”

Join Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob on They That Hope as they celebrate Alex Ovechkin breaking Wayne Gretzky's goal-scoring record and discuss the thrilling conclusion of the college basketball season. They share humorous anecdotes about meeting famous people, the Haribo sugar-free gummy bear reviews, and the Minecraft movie. They also reflect on the beauty of Palm Sunday and explore how we can integrate faith in everyday life with insights from Arthur Brooks. Plus, don't miss out on their plans for a live podcast from a baseball game next week!

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss the start of the baseball season, March Madness, role-playing games, and Dcn. Bob’s son receiving a hockey puck from Sidney Crosby. Fr. Dave shares some beautiful things he experienced in Austria last week. They also delve into a profound discussion on Jesus' encounter with the woman caught in adultery, meditating on his merciful response.

Father Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss March Madness, Bob's Mission Trip to Belize, Fr. Dave's Pilgrimage to Rwanda, and look ahead to this Sunday's Gospel reading of the Prodigal Son. Tune in to find out if Bob actually went in - or at least near - the ocean!

Fr. Dave and Dcn. Bob discuss their upcoming mission trips to Belize and Rwanda, reflecting on the impact of missions on students and communities. They delve into a light-hearted critique of the worst sports teams to cheer on as a fan, recounting frustrating fan experiences. They pay tribute to the late actor Gene Hackman and reflect on President Trump’s recent speech and the challenges of bipartisan politics. They close They That Hope with the Transfiguration Gospel reading, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the glory of the Lord in daily life.