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Rebel Saints: A Catholic Podcast for Restless Hearts

Okay, here’s the ‘how it started’ vs. ‘how it’s going’ of it all.

Rebel Saints actually began when I was a youth minister. I was just trying to find a way to show a bunch of teenagers that following Jesus isn’t some dusty, boring chore. It’s actually the most radical, 'cool-kind-of-weird' thing you can do with your life.

Fast forward to today, and my 9-to-5 is at a Catholic newspaper. I spend my days deep in the headlines, covering the Church. The beautiful parts, the messy parts, and the very human parts. But I realized I needed a place to step out from behind the byline. I needed a spot where I wasn't just reporting on the faith, but actually living it out loud with you.

Restless Hearts & The Gospel

There’s this famous line from St. Augustine:

"You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You."

That restlessness? I think it’s a gift. It’s the part of us that refuses to just 'fit in.' Honestly, I don't even want to fit in. I want to lean into the weirdness of the Gospel, the part that asks us to love our enemies and find joy in the middle of a chaotic 2026.

Real Life, No Filters

No 'perfect saint' filters here. I’m Nicole. I’m a wife, a mom, a Catholic journalist, and a photographer. I also fail a lot, but I’m showing up anyway. If you’re ready to be a little counter-cultural and a lot more honest about the journey, you’re in the right place.

Let’s be rebel saints together.

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Rebel Saints: A Catholic Podcast for Restless Hearts

Ash Wednesday: From Dust to Glory

February 12, 2024 • Nicole Olea • Episode 5

0:00 | 14:11

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In this episode explore the significance of Ash Wednesday in the Christian faith. Join us as we uncover the origins, history, and biblical references behind this sacred day, and discover how it serves as a powerful reminder of repentance, renewal, and God's unwavering love. Perfect for teenagers and young adults, this episode offers a fresh perspective on Ash Wednesday, inspiring listeners to embark on a meaningful Lenten journey. Tune in to kickstart your spiritual renewal and dive deeper into the rich traditions of the Christian faith.

Show Notes:

As promised, here is where you can find references to Ashes/Sack Cloths in the Bible.

1. Genesis 3:19 - "you are dust and to dust you shall return" - Reflects on human mortality and the return to dust.
2. Matthew 11:21 - Jesus mentions the practice of sackcloth and ashes, emphasizing its significance.
3. Jeremiah 6:26, 25:34 - Prophets speak about sackcloth and ashes symbolizing humility after committing sin.
4. Daniel 9:3 - Daniel adopts the practice of sackcloth and ashes as a sign of repentance.
5. Ezekiel 27:30 - References sackcloth and ashes as a symbol of mourning and humility.
6. Genesis 18:27, Ecclesiastes 3:20, Job 30:19 - Reflect on the human condition and mortality.
7. Job 2:12, 42:6 - Sackcloth and ashes used as symbols of mourning and repentance after loss.
8. 2 Samuel 13:19, Esther 4:1, 4:3, Jonah 3:6 - Instances where sackcloth and ashes are worn in mourning and repentance.

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