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WOF 098: The 5 Men Who Most Influenced Bishop Barron

In his new book, To Light a Fire on the Earth, Bishop Barron shares the story of his own spiritual formation as a young man coming of age after Vatican II, who is then called to preach to a secular world. Thankfully, the bishop was guided by great men who, despite the tide of secularism and moral relativism, embodied the steadfast spirituality, integrity, and moral rectitude that informs a heroic priesthood. In this episode of the Word On Fire Show, Bishop Barron discusses the impact of five key figures in his life, beginning with his father, John Clayton Barron, Sr. and ending with his late, great mentor, Cardinal Francis George of Chicago.

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Topics Discussed

  • 00:04 – Introduction, first printing and a visit from the Papal Ninja
  • 02:40 – The father of Father Barron
  • 07:20 – Adolescence and Mr. Tim White’s English class
  • 11:52 – Seminary years with Msgr. Robert Sokolowski
  • 17:42 – Serving as a parish priest with Msgr. Bill Quinn
  • 23:00 – The mission and mentorship of Cardinal Francis George
  • 28:25 – Listener Question: How do we respond to critics who say that it’s worthless to “send our thoughts and prayers” in times of crisis?