Pastor's Reflection - Aug 10th, 2025

I have frequently shared with you a phrase that surrounded a Christian bookstore in Auburn years ago, when I served my first pastorate at Sacred Heart, Enumclaw, from 2000–2005. The quote ran along the top of the store and said, “What goes into a mind comes out in a life.”

Isn’t that the truth? In this day and age of constant noise and advertisements, Christians must be careful to surround themselves with things that help them put on the mind of Christ (cf. Philippians 2:5). So many people are anxious and agitated because they take in a steady supply of negative news and spend very little time reading Scripture, devotionals, our other spiritual resource's that help them “seek that which is above” (cf. Colossians 3:1).

Lately, I’ve been enjoying a number of podcasts (especially while walking or traveling to Eastern Washington) that edify and help build up my faith.

Here are just a few of them:

Pints with Aquinas with Matt Fradd: A great show featuring interviews with interesting guests. Matt has a lively faith, a great Australian accent, and a really good sense of humor. 

The Lila Rose Show: This is a podcast I recently discovered. It addresses culture, relationships, identity, purpose, faith, and hot-button topics from a Christian, and particularly Catholic, perspective. Lila is a convert to the Catholic faith and is incredibly respectful of her guests.

Word on Fire Podcast: If you're looking for a smart, faithful, and inspiring way to engage with Catholicism, check out the Word on Fire podcast with Bishop Robert Barron. Each episode tackles big questions about faith, culture, Scripture, and the Church’s role in the modern world, all through the lens of Catholic tradition and intellectual depth. Bishop Barron has a gift for explaining complex ideas in a clear and compelling way, whether he's reflecting on the Sunday readings, discussing current events, or exploring the lives of the saints. It’s a great weekly companion for anyone wanting to think more deeply and love more fully as a disciple of Christ.

There are many other great resources online to help feed your soul and build up your faith.

These are just a few that I’ve really been enjoying.

Have a blessed week!

In Christ,

Fr. James Northrop, Pastor