Father Paul Sullins on Catholic Connections

This interview explores the deep connection between childhood trauma and the rise in transgender identification among young people. Dr. Jennifer Bauwens, a clinical social worker specializing in trauma, joins the conversation to explain how unresolved wounds, disrupted attachments, and cultural messaging influence identity formation. Drawing on clinical experience, research, and real-life stories—including the journey of Walt Heyer—she sheds light on why compassion, truth, and proper psychological care are essential for true healing. Dr. Jennifer Bauwens is the Director of the Center for Family Studies at Family Research Council. She researches and advocates for policies that will best serve the health and well-being of families and communities. Jennifer earned her Ph.D. from New York University with an emphasis in trauma studies. She has worked extensively as a clinician providing trauma-focused treatment to children in foster- care and behavioral health settings and to adults who've experienced interpersonal traumas, such as sexual abuse and assault. Her scholarship and publications have focused on the effects of psychological trauma, including man-made and natural disasters. Additionally, Jennifer has taught on psychological trauma and research methods in several graduate programs, including Rutgers University and Princeton Seminary. https://embracethedesign.com/ Jennifer Bauwens' Book: https://a.co/d/9yLRZy0 Walt Heyer Interviews:  https://youtu.be/07_JatfRsss https://youtu.be/0qZpwPtVNcA https://youtu.be/6K7QgYOKThw 00:00 Understanding Gender Confusion and Its Roots 03:26 Walt Heyer's Journey: From Trauma to Transformation 07:04 The Clinical Perspective on Gender Affirming Care 23:40 Comparing Experiences: Abuse Survivors and Transgender Individuals 30:54 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Identity 37:01 The Influence of Social Factors on Gender Identity 42:46 Navigating the Complexities of Gender Dysphoria 43:33 Understanding the Trans Movement and Social Contagion 47:18 The Importance of Attachment in Development 52:51 Exploring Attachment Theory and Its Implications 01:03:27 Connecting Attachment Issues to Gender Identity 01:10:51 The Role of Family and History in Identity Formation 01:22:42 Practical Guidance for Supporting Individuals in Transition 01:29:12 Real Estate Commercial  Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Have a question or a comment? Leave it in the comments, and we'll get back to you! Watch the full episode, uncensored, on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Theruthinstitute Subscribe to our YouTube playlist:  @RuthInstitute   Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theruthinstitute https://twitter.com/RuthInstitute https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthInstitute/ https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/newsfeed Press: NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/ Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/ Buy Dr. Morse's Books: The Sexual State: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/the-sexual-state-2/ Love and Economics: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/love-and-economics-it-takes-a-family-to-raise-a-village/ Smart Sex: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/smart-sex-finding-life-long-love-in-a-hook-up-world/ 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-a-happier-marriage/ 101 Tips for Marrying the Right Person: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-marrying-the-right-person/ Listen to our podcast:  Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ruth-institute-podcast/id309797947 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1t7mWLRHjrCqNjsbH7zXv1 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Get the full interview by joining us for exclusive, uncensored content on Locals: https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/support

We look at the hidden emotional and spiritual challenges of infertility and how Springs in the Desert accompanies couples carrying this cross. The guests share the ministry's origins, the grief and identity struggles many couples face, the different ways men and women process infertility, and the need for compassionate pastoral care. They also explain how community, faith, and a focus on Christ—not just conception—help couples find hope, healing, and a sense of fruitfulness in their marriages. Ann M. Koshute, MTS, is co-founder and Executive Director of Springs in the Desert, a Catholic ministry offering spiritual and emotional support to women and couples carrying the cross of infertility and loss. A graduate of the Pontifical John Paul II Institute, she and her husband Keith are Byzantine Catholics living in Central Pennsylvania. Ann speaks at conferences and retreats, contributes regularly to Eastern Catholic Life, and has written for Ascension Press's Catechism in a Year Companion and daily Scripture reflections; in 2021 she was appointed to the USCCB's Advisory Council. Fr. Paul Varchola West, Spiritual Father for Springs in the Desert, was ordained a Byzantine Catholic priest in 2020 and serves as pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Levittown, Pennsylvania. A columnist for Eastern Catholic Life, he was appointed Director of Deacons for the Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of Passaic in 2025. He and his wife Alissa, married in 2009, enjoy music, the outdoors, and life with their two children—blessings that came after many years of prayers and infertility treatments. http://www.springsinthedesert.org Facebook: @Springs in the Desert Instagram: @springsinthedesert_ ​The Springs in the Desert Podcast: https://springsinthedesert.org/podcast/  00:00 Introduction to Springs in the Desert 05:24 The Journey of Infertility and Founding the Ministry 08:33 Understanding Byzantine Catholicism and Spiritual Leadership 11:22 The Role of Spiritual Support in Infertility 14:11 Navigating Medical and Spiritual Aspects of Infertility 17:16 The Emotional Landscape of Infertility 20:23 Programs and Resources Offered by Springs in the Desert 23:25 The Importance of Community and Shared Experiences 26:30 Addressing Grief and Loss in Infertility 29:19 The Unique Perspectives of Men and Women in Infertility 32:46 Navigating Emotional Responses in Marriage 38:56 The Role of the Church in Supporting Infertility 49:51 Addressing Pregnancy Loss and Grief 54:24 Understanding Identity Beyond Infertility 01:02:01 The Temptation of Objectification in Relationships 01:04:54 The Struggle with Self-Absorption and Spirituality 01:08:37 The Urgency of Infertility Ministry Today 01:11:53 Changing the Conversation Around Infertility 01:16:33 Normalizing Infertility in Young Education 01:21:58 The Importance of Connection and Community 01:25:18 Action Items for Supporting Couples Facing Infertility 01:35:23 Real Estate Commercial  Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Have a question or a comment? Leave it in the comments, and we'll get back to you! Watch the full episode, uncensored, on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Theruthinstitute Subscribe to our YouTube playlist:  @RuthInstitute   Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theruthinstitute https://twitter.com/RuthInstitute https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthInstitute/ https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/newsfeed Press: NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/ Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/ Buy Dr. Morse's Books: The Sexual State: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/the-sexual-state-2/ Love and Economics: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/love-and-economics-it-takes-a-family-to-raise-a-village/ Smart Sex: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/smart-sex-finding-life-long-love-in-a-hook-up-world/ 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-a-happier-marriage/ 101 Tips for Marrying the Right Person: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-marrying-the-right-person/ Listen to our podcast:  Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ruth-institute-podcast/id309797947 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1t7mWLRHjrCqNjsbH7zXv1 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Get the full interview by joining us for exclusive, uncensored content on Locals: https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/support

November 14th, 2025, Father Paul Sullins joins Teresa Tomeo on her show Catholic Connections to discuss "persistent emotional distress after abortion in the U.S.. He just had an article with some very solid research about post abortive healing, and how women are indeed pained by their abortions. It was recently published in a major health journal."

The discussion centers on recent debates surrounding sexuality, moral theology, and cultural attitudes toward truth. The speakers examine claims about sexual identity, the influence of ideological messaging, and the pressures—social, familial, and cultural—that shape people's beliefs. They argue that misunderstandings of science, theology, and human freedom contribute to widespread confusion about sexuality and moral behavior. They also explore how personal desires, fear of conflict, and resistance to moral obligations lead individuals to reject inconvenient truths. Topics include the interplay between autonomy, love, freedom, and truth; the impact of media and peer pressure; the contradictions within modern sexual ideologies; and the importance of grounded moral reasoning. The conversation concludes by emphasizing the need for clarity, compassion, and adherence to truth when discussing sexuality and human dignity.   This is the last interview Dr. Morse shared with Father Rob Jack before his passing. 

A clear and compassionate explanation of the moral, scientific, and spiritual issues surrounding IVF and assisted reproductive technologies. With insights from chemistry, theology, and philosophy, the discussion explores human dignity from the moment of conception, the meaning of love in bringing new life into the world, and the risks of treating children as products rather than gifts. Personal stories and logical reasoning highlight the deep emotional and societal implications of reproductive loss, infertility, and the growing industry built around assisted reproduction, while offering hope, healing, and a deeper understanding of the human person. IVF is not the Answer Book: https://sophiainstitute.com/?product=ivf-is-not-the-way (Sofia Institute) https://a.co/d/fAlYPAT (amazon) Dr. J's Interview with Katie McMann: https://youtu.be/AlqJvy5IX8o https://youtu.be/g_rbE5j2gYo Shiloh IVF Ministry: https://www.shilohivf.com/ Ruth Institute's Conception Brochure: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/children-and-donor-conception-and-assisted-reproduction/ 00:00 Introduction 03:43 Introducing Stacy 06:50 The Journey from Science to Faith 09:35 Understanding Infertility and Miscarriage 12:42 The Moral Case Against IVF 15:27 The Dignity of the Human Person 18:39 The Role of God in Human Dignity 21:13 The Current Cultural Context for IVF Discussion 29:50 The Love Behind the No to IVF 32:58 The Consequences of IVF 35:46 Personal Stories and Marital Impact 38:22 The Future of Reproductive Technology 42:37 The Psychological Impact of Anonymous Donorship 43:50 The Need for Love in Human Development 46:32 The Role of Heritage and Identity 49:14 The Commodification of Life 55:43 Hope and Redemption in Reproductive Choices 01:02:02 Final Words 01:03:25 Real Estate Commercial (1).mp4 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Have a question or a comment? Leave it in the comments, and we'll get back to you! Watch the full episode, uncensored, on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Theruthinstitute Subscribe to our YouTube playlist:  @RuthInstitute   Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theruthinstitute https://twitter.com/RuthInstitute https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthInstitute/ https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/newsfeed Press: NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/ Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/ Buy Dr. Morse's Books: The Sexual State: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/the-sexual-state-2/ Love and Economics: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/love-and-economics-it-takes-a-family-to-raise-a-village/ Smart Sex: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/smart-sex-finding-life-long-love-in-a-hook-up-world/ 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-a-happier-marriage/ 101 Tips for Marrying the Right Person: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-marrying-the-right-person/ Listen to our podcast:  Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ruth-institute-podcast/id309797947 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1t7mWLRHjrCqNjsbH7zXv1 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Get the full interview by joining us for exclusive, uncensored content on Locals: https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/support

This conversation explores the profound journey of Bevelyn Williams, a pro-life activist who faced legal challenges after her activism. She shares her personal experiences with abortion, the mental health struggles that followed, and her eventual redemption through faith. The discussion highlights the importance of grace, community support, and the fight against the abortion industry, culminating in her story of being pardoned by President Trump. Bevelyn emphasizes the need for truth and grace in the pro-life movement and encourages others to embrace their stories and advocate for the vulnerable. Bevelyn's Ministry: atwellministries.org Will You Help Me Now? Pro-Life Story from Rev. Walter Hoye | Ruth Institute Survivors Summit Walter Hoye Interview: https://youtu.be/BqaviSCQoA8 00:00 The Journey of Regret and Redemption 02:41 Facing the Legal System: A Pro-Life Activist's Story 05:27 The Impact of Abortion on Mental Health 08:22 Finding Faith and Purpose in Activism 11:08 The Struggles of a Pro-Life Advocate 13:44 The Role of Grace in Healing 16:19 Confronting the Abortion Industry 19:33 The Fight Against Abortion: A Personal Mission 22:10 The Legal Battle: Indictment and Trial 24:53 The Aftermath of Indictment: Reflections and Insights 27:51 The Power of Community and Support 30:34 The Role of Politics in Pro-Life Activism 33:29 The Importance of Truth and Grace 36:05 Pardoned: A New Chapter Begins 38:46 Building a Family and a Future 41:34 A Call to Action for Pro-Life Advocates Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Have a question or a comment? Leave it in the comments, and we'll get back to you! Watch the full episode, uncensored, on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Theruthinstitute Subscribe to our YouTube playlist:  @RuthInstitute   Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theruthinstitute https://twitter.com/RuthInstitute https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthInstitute/ https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/newsfeed Press: NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/ Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/ Buy Dr. Morse's Books: The Sexual State: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/the-sexual-state-2/ Love and Economics: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/love-and-economics-it-takes-a-family-to-raise-a-village/ Smart Sex: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/smart-sex-finding-life-long-love-in-a-hook-up-world/ 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-a-happier-marriage/ 101 Tips for Marrying the Right Person: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-marrying-the-right-person/ Listen to our podcast:  Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ruth-institute-podcast/id309797947 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1t7mWLRHjrCqNjsbH7zXv1 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Get the full interview by joining us for exclusive, uncensored content on Locals: https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/support

Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse delivers the opening address at the 2025 Midwest Catholic Family Conference in Wichita, Kansas. Drawing from her book The Sexual State, she exposes the contradictions of the sexual revolution and affirms the timeless wisdom of the Catholic Church on marriage, family, and human sexuality. This powerful talk lays the groundwork for a weekend of truth, clarity, and courage.

Hannah Spier is a Norwegian-born medical doctor trained in Psychiatry in Norway and Switzerland, with a degree in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy from the University of Zurich. Now based in Zurich with her husband and three children, she launched the Psychobabble publication and podcast in October 2022 to challenge postmodern influences and feminism, in particular, in the mental health field. Dr. Hannah Spier discusses the impact of modern feminism on mental health, exploring how societal expectations influence women's lives and psychological well-being. She shares her personal journey and professional insights, challenging conventional narratives and offering a fresh perspective on identity and fulfillment. Link: YouTube: @psychobabblewithspier Website: https://substack.com/@UCZlHNlu2CVjcPy9sA8iBHkQ  00:00 - Introduction to Mental Health and Feminism 06:04 - The Young Woman's Journey: Education and Emotional Needs 13:29 - The Careerist Feminine 21:11 -  Personal Transformation: A Shift in Priorities 29:53 - Importance of Family Hierarchy 33:29 - The 30-Something Woman: Burnout and Life Choices 38:12 - The Impact of the Sexual Revolution 43:16 - Navigating Relationships and Commitment 52:03 - The Pain of Unfulfilled Motherhood 01:02:10 - IVF Ministries Playlist on Ruth Institute YouTube Channel 01:02:46 - Challenges of Working Mothers 01:10:31 - Is Divorce Avoidable? 01:16:23 - Understanding Feminism in Modern Context 01:23:56 - The Early Influences of Feminism on Girls 01:35:47 - The Role of Cooperation in Society 01:39:31 - Where to find Hannah Spier Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Have a question or a comment? Leave it in the comments, and we'll get back to you! Watch the full episode, uncensored, on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/Theruthinstitute Subscribe to our YouTube playlist:  @RuthInstitute   Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/theruthinstitute https://twitter.com/RuthInstitute https://www.facebook.com/TheRuthInstitute/ https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/newsfeed Press: NC Register: https://www.ncregister.com/author/jennifer-roback-morse Catholic Answers: https://www.catholic.com/profile/jennifer-roback-morse The Stream: https://stream.org/author/jennifer-roback-morse/ Crisis Magazine: https://crisismagazine.com/author/jennifer-roeback-morse Father Sullins' Reports on Clergy Sexual Abuse: https://ruthinstitute.org/resource-centers/father-sullins-research/ Buy Dr. Morse's Books: The Sexual State: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/the-sexual-state-2/ Love and Economics: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/love-and-economics-it-takes-a-family-to-raise-a-village/ Smart Sex: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/smart-sex-finding-life-long-love-in-a-hook-up-world/ 101 Tips for a Happier Marriage: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-a-happier-marriage/ 101 Tips for Marrying the Right Person: https://ruthinstitute.org/product/101-tips-for-marrying-the-right-person/ Listen to our podcast:  Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ruth-institute-podcast/id309797947 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1t7mWLRHjrCqNjsbH7zXv1 Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/ Get the full interview by joining us for exclusive, uncensored content on Locals: https://theruthinstitute.locals.com/support

Dr. Jennifer Roback Morse speaks with Raven Jard Castañeda and Nirva dela Cruz, two young Catholic leaders from the Philippines who helped pioneer the Humilitas March—a public act of reparation and devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. What began in 2024 as a small prayer gathering in Davao has grown into a nationwide movement offering a faithful alternative to Pride marches. Raven and Nirva share how the marches unite clergy, youth groups, and Catholic organizations in joyful witness, public prayer, and Eucharistic devotion. They discuss the symbolism of holding the march in historic places like EDSA, the powerful conversions it has inspired—including former Pride marchers turning to Christ—and how the Sacred Heart devotion speaks to today's culture of confusion and despair. Raven Jard N. Castañeda is a Catholic apologist, lay catechist, and medical student dedicated to proclaiming the love and kingship of Christ through devotion to the Sacred Heart. A summa cum laude graduate of Ateneo de Davao University in Medical Biology and now a second-year student at Davao Medical School Foundation, he continues forming young Catholics in truth, humility, and devotion. In 2024, he pioneered the HUMILITAS March, a movement of young faithful united in public witness and reparation to the Sacred Heart, and founded the Association of Catholic Apologists – Knights of Saint Justin Martyr, which hosts conferences, apologetics training, and catechetical events. With experience in writing, public speaking, and debate, he defends the faith against rising wokeism in Catholic universities, most recently presenting on Truth, Academic Freedom, and Catholic Education at a 2024 philosophy conference. His deepest desire is to lead souls back to the beauty of the Catholic faith and the burning love of the Heart of Jesus. Link to Raven's website: Humilitas FB page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569082642573 Personal Blog (Simply Human): https://rjncastaneda.substack.com/  Nirva's conversion through the Catholic charismatic movement led her to missionary work in Indonesia and East Timor before serving with the Episcopal Commission on Youth and later as associate editor of CBCP News, where she covered World Youth Days and the 2015 Synod of the Family. A former pro-life radio host, she became the first Filipino fellow of the Center for Asia Leadership in 2018, studying leadership and design thinking in Kuala Lumpur. She later served as communications officer for the Arnold Janssen Kalinga Foundation, documenting extra-judicial killings and advancing care for the homeless. An active Singles for Christ leader and international speaker, she has shared the faith across Asia and Europe. She loves the Traditional Latin Mass, baking, reading, and traveling, and most recently led Humilitas Metro Manila in June 2025 to promote devotion to the Sacred Heart. Links: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1556996025004746 - Humilitas Metro Manila FB group https://www.facebook.com/nirva.delacruz - Nirva Delacruz FB account (personal) Subscribe to our newsletter to get this amazing report: Refuting the Top 5 Gay Myths https://ruthinstitute.org/refute-the-top-five-myths/

The sexual revolution has distorted truth, fueled confusion, and even bred violence. Labels like "transgender" hide very different realities, while wishful thinking and confirmation bias block repentance and healing. Reflecting on the murder of Charlie Kirk, the dignified, prayerful response of young Turning Point USA members stands out as a sign of hope. The conversation urges Catholics to seek silence, prayer, and clarity of heart amid today's overwhelming cultural noise