Exorcist Explains Spiritual Warfare and Catholic Mental Health | Fr Chad Ripperger

How can Catholics discern whether interior suffering is the result of demonic oppression or struggles like anxiety, depression, or emotional trauma? In this episode of A Reason For Hope Podcast, Mario Costabile sits down with Catholic priest, exorcist, and Thomistic philosopher Fr. Chad Ripperger, who explains how the Church approaches spiritual warfare, using the rich intellectual tradition of St. Thomas Aquinas to distinguish between spiritual and psychological afflictions.We explore how demons interact with the intellect, will, and passions, and how Catholics can recognize signs of spiritual attack, while understanding that not all mental or emotional challenges are demonic in origin. Fr. Ripperger shares practical guidance on discernment of spirits, the role of grace, virtue, and the sacraments, and how Catholic mental health perspectives can complement spiritual care.This conversation is essential for anyone seeking clarity in the modern world, especially for those facing inner struggles and trying to navigate the overlap between psychological challenges and spiritual realities. Learn how to protect your soul, strengthen your spiritual life, and approach suffering with a clear and faithful Catholic framework.-Support our Sponsors-Magnifier - An exciting new magazine to awaken wonder in children ages 7–12.Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction01:58 Start of Interview 02:37 The Philosophy of St. Thomas Aquinas04:41 Distinguishing Spiritual and Psychological Suffering06:09 Patterns of Possession and Obsession12:33 The Rise of Demonic Activity in Modern Culture14:16 Father Ripperger's Journey as an Exorcist20:14 The Role of Saints in Exorcism28:07 The Role of Grace and Sacraments in Exorcism36:08 Integrating Thomistic Psychology in Mental Health39:26 Dangers of Over or Under Spiritualizing Attacks41:33 The Nature of Free Will and Moral Responsibility44:48 The Impact of Sin and Trauma on Vulnerability47:52 Initial Steps for Those Feeling Oppressed50:16 Why God Allows Demonic Affliction52:45 Final Remarks

What is sin? Are all sins created equal? In this episode of A Reason For Hope Podcast, Jack Garno and Dr. David Hajduk dive deep into the Catholic Church’s teaching on sin—original sin, mortal sin, venial sin, and the consequences of sin in Christian theology. We explore what the Bible says about sin, how moral theology helps us understand grave sin, and why the sacrament of reconciliation is essential to healing.You’ll hear insights on faith, penance, and the Church’s role in helping souls return to God. We also address the modern resistance to the idea of sin, especially regarding sexual morality, and whether the Church is "too obsessed" with sin. Can you receive communion if you're in a state of sin? Do you need a priest to be forgiven?This conversation unpacks timeless spiritual truths and sheds light on how Christianity, religion, and Catholic Church teaching still matter deeply in today's world.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Catholic conversations that inspire hope and deepen your faith.-Support our Sponsors-Magnificat - A simple way to transform the way you pray.Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction02:13 Start of Interview 03:09 Different Types of Sin16:06 Original Sin 20:03 Reordering Disordered Desires 27:09 Does it take formation to know what Sin is? 32:39 What Sin Will Send Me to Hell? 37:36 The Eucharist and Sin 45:52 More differences between Mortal + Venial Sin 47:47 Partial vs. Plenory Indulgences 51:19 The Need for Confession

Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt episode of A Reason for Hope Podcast as host Mario Costabile sits down with world-renowned Catholic musician, worship leader, and storyteller Matt Maher. In this deep and personal conversation, Matt opens up about his childhood faith, early love for music, journey through ministry, songwriting, encounters with multiple popes, and the powerful spiritual experiences that have shaped his life and vocation.From the story behind “Lord, I Need You,” to reflections on humility, prayer, evangelization, parish life, and the importance of storytelling in worship, Matt offers wisdom, humor, and beautiful insights that speak to Catholics and Christians everywhere. He also discusses how God led him through the deserts of life—literally and spiritually—and how that formed his ministry and songwriting.You'll also hear about Matt’s Cathedral Tour with Sarah Kroger—an Advent worship experience designed to draw the faithful into beauty, reverence, and a deeper encounter with God inside some of the most historic and sacred spaces in America.Topics covered in this episode:Matt Maher’s upbringing, faith foundation, and first encounters with God through musicHis move from Canada to the U.S. and the spiritual awakening that followedHow parish life, Life Teen, and mentors shaped his ministryThe real story behind writing “Your Grace Is Enough” and “Lord, I Need You”His extraordinary experiences singing before Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI, Francis, and LeoWhy storytelling matters in worship and evangelizationThe spiritual discipline and prayer life that keeps him groundedThe vision and beauty behind his Advent Cathedral TourWhether you’re a musician, a worship leader, a fan of Matt’s music, or simply someone seeking hope and encouragement in your spiritual journey, this episode will uplift and inspire you.👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more faith-filled episodes.🔔 Get tickets for Matt Maher & Sarah Kroger’s Cathedral Tour: https://mattmahermusic.com/tour-Support our Sponsors-Mother of Divine Grace School - Founded by Laura Berquist in 1995, it offers a Catholic, classical approach to distance learningScapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast-Follow Matt on Social Media-Instagram: https://instagram.com/mattmahermusicFacebook: https://facebook.com/mattmahermusicX: https://x.com/mattmahermusicTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mattmahermusicYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@mattmahermusicWebsite: https://mattmahermusic.com⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction02:08 Start of Interview 02:46 Array of Hope's Background with Matt Maher04:07 Did God or Music come first? 05:34 Matt's Catholic Upbringing through Adulthood 08:31 Matt's Time in Arizona 13:26 How Matt recorded his first project22:07 World Youth Day 201929:34 Experience with the Papacy 35:10 The Power of Storytelling 45:51 Staying Humble In the Spotlight53:43 The Upcoming Cathedral Tour 63:40 Final Remarks

In this episode of A Reason for Hope, Dr. David Hajduk sits down with Fr. Gregory Pine, OP, author of Your Eucharistic Identity, to explore the deep connection between our identity and the Eucharist. What does it mean to live with a Eucharistic identity? How can we discover who we truly are in Christ through the sacraments? And why does our culture face such a profound identity crisis today?Together, we unpack how the Eucharist shapes our personal identity, strengthens our faith, and offers clarity in a world filled with confusion about self-worth, gender, and purpose. Whether you’re Catholic seeking to deepen your devotion, or someone curious about the richness of the Catholic faith, this conversation will help you rediscover the source of life and the fullness of who you are in Christ.👉 Topics we cover in this episode:What it means to have a Eucharistic identityThe inspiration behind Your Eucharistic IdentityHow the sacraments reveal our identity in ChristWhy today’s culture struggles with questions of identityHow to live more fully through the EucharistDon’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Catholic conversations that inspire hope and deepen your faith.-Support our Sponsors-Magnificat - A simple way to transform the way you pray.Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast-Follow Fr Gregory Pine on Social Media-Twitter: https://x.com/godsplainingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/godsplaining/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/godsplaining/Website: https://godsplaining.org/⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction 02:01 Start of Interview 03:00 What is the Root of Our Cultural Identity Crisis?05:36 Understanding Eucharistic Identity07:39 Nature, Grace, and Our True Identity11:05 The Real Capacity for Transformation14:14 Catholic Theology of Grace15:55 Living a Christ-Shaped Life20:42 Uniting Our Sacrifices with Christ's24:01 The Importance of Reverence and Transcendence in Liturgy28:21 Finding Identity in the Mystical Body of Christ30:53 Mary's Role in Our Eucharistic Identity33:54 Understanding Our Identity Through Christ36:39 The Journey of Writing and Sharing the Eucharistic Identity38:59 Practical Steps to Discover Eucharistic Identity39:55 Final Remarks

On this episode of A Reason For Hope Podcast, Mario Costabile has a conversation with Catholic author Patrick O’Hearn about his groundbreaking book, The Truth About Hell. In an age where belief in heaven and hell is fading, this episode dives deep into Catholic eschatology and the eternal consequences of our choices—salvation or damnation.In this episode we explore:Why the Church’s teaching on eternal damnation is not only true but urgently needed today.The twelve things Jesus said about Hell—and how they challenge modern Catholicism.The battle of spiritual warfare and how the evil one distorts the truth about Hell, free will, and salvation.What the Magisterium, the saints, and Marian apparitions have revealed about Hell.Chilling mystical visions from saints that illustrate the reality of damnation.The role of purgatory and how it differs from Hell in Catholic eschatology.How to use Catholic reflections, prayers against Hell, and Bible study to grow in truth and avoid deception.A practical path for avoiding Hell and embracing God’s mercy.Whether you're new to the topic or seeking deeper truth, this episode will enrich your understanding of Church teaching, free will, and the final destiny of every soul.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into Catholicism, eschatology, and the teachings of the Church!-Support our Sponsors-Magnificat - A simple way to transform the way you pray.Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast-Follow Patrick on Social Media-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-o-hearn-45065580/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrickrohearn/Website: https://patrickrohearn.com/⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction01:58 Start of Interview03:17 Why Write a Book on Hell?04:38 How did you Co-Author a Book with Dan Burke? 04:41 Motivation Behind Writing the Book06:18 Understanding Hell Through Scripture08:47 12 Times Jesus Mentions Hell in the Bible10:55 How Does the Devil Deceive us? 12:32 The Role of Doubt and Free Will15:11 Did God Create Hell?16:23 Most Common Misconception about Hell17:50 Scary Depictions of Hell by Saints19:55 Marian Apparitions about Hell26:03 5 Ways to Turn Away from Satan31:37 Most Important Takeaway 32:29 Final Remarks

What keeps young people rooted in the Catholic faith today? In this powerful episode of A Reason for Hope, Fr. Mike Schmitz joins Mario Costabile to share his journey from a teenage encounter with God in confession to discovering his priestly vocation and serving as chaplain at the University of Minnesota Duluth.Fr. Mike opens up about his daily prayer life, the importance of choosing local mission, and what actually helps students grow in faith. He breaks down the biggest spiritual questions college students ask today, including the modern shift from “Is God real?” to the deeper ache of “Is God good?”We also explore how to accompany loved ones who have left the Church, why confession changes lives, and the mission behind Bulldog Catholic’s thriving campus ministry, which is forming disciples, expanding sacramental life, and building a new spiritual home for the next generation.If you’ve ever wrestled with discernment, wondered how to pray with honesty, or felt heartbreak watching someone you love drift from the faith, this conversation will leave you encouraged to trust God’s goodness and keep going.-Support Our Sponsors-Ave Maria Mutual Funds - the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S. Launched in 2001, their six no-load funds adhere to strong pro-life and pro-family values.Mother of Divine Grace School - Founded by Laura Berquist in 1995, it offers a Catholic, classical approach to distance learning.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event🙏 Support Bulldog Catholichttps://bulldogcatholic.org/donate/-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast-Follow Fr. Mike-Instagram (personal): https://www.instagram.com/fathermikeschmitz/Instagram (ministry): https://www.instagram.com/bulldogcatholic/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Father-Mike-Schmitz-100091082350167/Website: https://bulldogcatholic.org Tour Info: https://ascensionpress.com/frmiketour⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction02:38 Start of Interview03:37 Father Mike's Journey to Priesthood09:56 Reflections on Public Life and Ministry15:18 Staying Grounded in Faith Despite Fame21:43 How Fr. Mike Prays 26:12 Showing Charity in a Divided World29:00 Evolving Youth Ministry: 20 Years of Change34:41 Understanding the Bible: Wrestling with Difficult Passages40:24 The Most Common Question Father Mike Gets45:00 The New Youth Center Project50:55 End Interview

In this episode of A Reason for Hope, Mario Costabile sits down with Tom Monaghan, founder of Domino’s Pizza, former owner of the Detroit Tigers, and the visionary behind Ave Maria University and Legatus. From a childhood in a Catholic orphanage to becoming one of America’s most successful Catholic entrepreneurs, Tom shares his remarkable journey of faith, perseverance, and purpose.He opens up about the spiritual turning point that led him to give up worldly luxuries after reading Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis, his lifelong devotion to the Mass and the Rosary, and how he dedicated his fortune to building institutions that serve God and form faithful Catholic leaders.Join us as Tom Monaghan discusses the true meaning of success, the battle against pride, and how faith in Christ transformed his life from the pizza kitchen to a mission of evangelization and Catholic education.-Support Our Sponsors-Ave Maria Mutual Funds - the largest family of Catholic mutual funds in the U.S. Launched in 2001, their six no-load funds adhere to strong pro-life and pro-family values.Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and in death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction 03:26 Start of Interview09:58 Importance of the Marines in his Success14:22 Importance of Knowing What is Most Important in Life17:53 How He Started Dominoes 21:09 Did Someone Say Delivery?26:38 Franchising33:54 Purchasing the Detroit Tigers37:32 Millionaires Vow to Poverty 42:42 Importance of Mass + Eucharist44:43 Tom's Catholic Philanthropy 48:34 Goal of Ave Maria 51:08 Legatus 52:56 Tom's Advice to Someone Starting Out54:20 Tom's perspective on Faith

In this powerful episode of A Reason for Hope, exorcist Fr. Daniel Reehil joins host Mario Costabile to reveal everything you need to know about spiritual warfare. Drawing from years of experience on the front lines of exorcism ministry, Fr. Reehil shares what really happens during an exorcism, how demons deceive and attack, and how Catholics can protect themselves through the sacraments, prayer, and a deep relationship with Christ.Discover the truth about demonic manifestations, possession, temptation, and the hidden spiritual battles happening in our world today. Fr. Reehil also explains how to discern spirits, the power of the Blessed Mother, the Communion of Saints, and why living in a state of grace is your greatest defense against evil.Whether you’ve ever wondered what an exorcist really does, how the devil tempts us, or how to strengthen your faith in a world full of spiritual confusion—this conversation will awaken your understanding of spiritual warfare and divine protection.👉 Subscribe to A Reason for Hope for more Catholic conversations about faith, spiritual warfare, prayer, and the truth that sets us free.-Support our Sponsors-Verbum - Take Your Catholic Bible Study from Stumped to Stellar with VerbumMagnificat - A simple way to transform the way you pray.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast-Follow Fr Reehil-TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fatherdanreehilInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherdanreehilYouTube: https://youtube.com/@fatherdanreehil⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction02:51 Start of Interview04:35 How do you prepare for an exorcism?06:29 Perspective on eternity after performing Exorcisms 10:47 Understanding Demonic Manifestations15:02 Tarot Cards, Psychics, Mediums, and the Occult19:36 The Role of Saints in Exorcisms25:26 The Power of Intercessory Prayers27:44 Why does God allow Demonic Possession31:17 Common Portals to Demonic Influence32:14 Distinguishing Between Mental Illness and Possession35:11 Ordinary Attacks by The Devil41:36 Discernment of Spirits and Recognizing God's Voice48:23 Last Remarks

Struggling with mental health or depression can feel overwhelming—but in the light of faith, even our deepest wounds can be transformed. In this episode of the A Reason for Hope podcast, Catholic psychiatrist Dr. Aaron Kheriaty shares powerful insights on how prayer, meditation, and embracing redemptive suffering can lead to profound healing and lasting hope.We’ll explore:The connection between prayer, Catholic spirituality, and emotional well-beingHow to find meaning in suffering and allow God to transform itWhat it means to avoid “sanitizing the cross” in modern Christian lifePractical steps to truly embrace the crucified Christ every dayHow to meditate on Christ’s Passion in daily prayer and especially during the MassWhy our culture struggles with the concept of redemptive sufferingHow to confront the hidden battles of spiritual warfare with faith and courageIf you’ve been searching for encouragement and practical steps to grow closer to God through your trials, this conversation will inspire you to see your cross not as a burden, but as a bridge to grace.-Support our Sponsors-Magnificat - A simple way to transform the way you pray.Scapulars.com - Divine protection in life and death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made.-Support Our Mission-Donate HereBook an Event-Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction02:37 Start of Interview03:18 The Connection Between Faith and Mental Health09:26 Reductionist view of Modern Psychology15:08 The Role of Faith in Alleviating Suffering19:28 Meditating on the Passion of Christ24:44 The Broader Context of Christ's Suffering31:12 Importance of Uniting Suffering with Christ32:20 The Redemptive Nature of Suffering33:44 Cultural Mentality and Victimhood37:08 Spiritual Healings role in Psychological Well-being40:02 The Role of Sacraments in Healing47:30 Final Reflections on Suffering and Hope

On today’s episode of A Reason For Hope Podcast, Mario Costabile talks with Paul Zucarelli, author of Faith Understood: An Ordinary Man's Journey to the Presence of God. Paul shares his extraordinary near-death experience testimony after suffering eight cardiac arrests in two days. He discusses the power of intercessory prayer, trusting God in moments of doubt, and how this profound encounter with God shaped his faith journey and gave his life a new mission: to evangelize His Truth.In this interview, we cover:• What was your life like before the cardiac arrests?• Can you walk us through the moments you experienced NDE after eight arrest episodes?• What did you see or feel when you “went to the heavenly realm”?• How did intercessory prayer, especially on Pentecost, factor into your recovery?• How has your relationship with the Catholic Church deepened through this?• What impact did Bishop Olmsted’s prayers have on your healing?• What was the single most transformative moment during those two hours?• How did this near-death experience reshape your faith and purpose?• Why did you choose “Faith Understood” as the title?• What practical advice would you give Catholics encountering suffering or doubt?-Support Our Sponsors-Verbum - Take Your Catholic Bible Study from Stumped to Stellar with VerbumScapulars.com - Divine protection in life and in death with the most durable, comfortable scapulars ever made.-Support Our Mission-Donate Here Book an Event -Follow Us On Social Media-Facebook: https://facebook.com/r4hpodcastInstagram: https://instagram.com/r4hpodcastYouTube: https://youtube.com/@R4HPodcast⏰Timecode⏰00:00 Introduction03:12 Paul's Near-Death Experience07:36 What is a locution? 17:12 The Role of Faith and Family21:08 Miraculous Healing and the Bishop's Intervention24:50 Verbum 25:45 Scapulars.com26:30 Donate27:24 Transformation and Spiritual Awakening32:13 Faith Understood36:40 The Contrast Between Heaven and Hell39:00 God Is Light 41:58 The Challenge of Faith and Intellect44:21 Last Remarks-Living a Life of Hope and Virtue