Catholic Gospel Reflection: From Triumph to Sacrifice | Palm Sunday (Cycle B) Artwork

Rebel Saints: Catholic Faith & Spiritual Growth

There is nothing more punk than being Catholic.

In an increasingly secular world, there is nothing more radical than choosing to belong to something as ancient and eternal as the Catholic Church. To be Catholic today is inherently counter-cultural. It means choosing sacrificial love, prayer, and fidelity to God in a society that prizes noise and self-interest above all else.

I’m Nicole Olea. Most days you’ll find me reporting on the Catholic Church, but I spent years in the trenches as a youth minister and a catechist. If there is one thing I learned accompanying teens on their faith journey, it’s that Catholicism is metal.

When I first heard St. Augustine’s words, “our hearts are restless until they rest in You,” I could finally put a name to the longing in my heart, that constant ache for something real.

If your heart is restless too, that isn't a glitch; it’s an invitation. It’s the signal that we were made for more than what’s being sold to us.

Yet, misconceptions about Catholicism prevail, often fueled by the very real mistakes and pain members of the Church have caused. While we shouldn’t hide from our history, the Church needs real voices of people who have joy in the Lord, to testify on her behalf and point people toward Christ in whatever way the Holy Spirit calls them to.

I was called to start this podcast, to share the messy, the beautiful and the METAL parts of the Catholic faith. I am a layperson, and there is no degree in theology hanging on my wall, but I'm not afraid of digging through books and often find myself doing just that when preparing for an episode.

I don't have it all figured out, I’m not perfect, and this podcast isn’t a guide on how to become some plastic version of a saint. I can't promise you this journey won't be chaotic and we'll definitely take the scenic route. So consider yourself warned.

But if you're like me, or if you are longing for "more" authentic spirituality and the idea of becoming exactly who God made you to be appeals to you, then hit that + button and join this little rebellion, because your restless heart can only mean you're a Rebel Saint too.

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Rebel Saints: Catholic Faith & Spiritual Growth

Catholic Gospel Reflection: From Triumph to Sacrifice | Palm Sunday (Cycle B)

March 23, 2024 • Christianity | Catholic • Episode 13

0:00 | 12:11

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In this episode of the Rebel Saints Podcast, host Nicole delves into the depths of the Gospel readings for Palm Sunday, March 24, 2024. Join us as we unpack the profound journey of Jesus Christ during Holy Week, exploring themes of humility, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. Through reflections on the triumphal entry, the ultimate sacrifice of Christ's Passion, and insights from saints such as Saint Teresa of Calcutta and Saint Padre Pio, we find guidance on how to navigate the challenges of being a teenager in today's world. Discover the transformative power of embracing our crosses with courage and trust in God's promises. Don't miss out on this inspiring episode as we continue to explore the beauty and depth of our Catholic faith on the Rebel Saints Podcast. Subscribe now for more reflections and discussions to enrich your spiritual journey.

READINGS for Palm Sunday in the Passion of our Lord - March 24, 2024

PROCESSION: Mark 11:1-10 or John 12:12-16

FIRST READING: Isaiah 50:4-7

RESPONSORIAL PSALM: Psalm 22:8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24

SECOND READING; Philippians 2:6-11

GOSPEL: Mark 14:1-15:47 or Mark 15:1-39

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