Tolkien's Advice to Catholics in a Time of Crisis

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[@lvitacahill2383]

Thank you for this. I’m sixteen, just moved into a residential prep school. I have pretty traditional values, and from what I can tell, most people here definitely don’t. It’s incredibly isolating to know that if they knew everything I stood for, a lot of people would probably hate me based on assumptions. Fortunately, there’s a Catholic Church right across the street, but I’m still having trouble with wanting to keep the faith when the going gets tough. This video helps a lot. Watching things like this makes me feel a little less alone, and reminds me why I’m Catholic in the first place.

[@megaton95]

Thus says the Lord God. He who created you O Jacob. He who formed you O Isreal. "Fear not, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by name, and you are mine." Remain firm in the traditions you have received says St. Paul. Know that the Lord speaks these things to you and that we are one people and together we must receive his love in this time.

[@deebee533]

I have found people who have different values than you, are not worth having as friends. Friends are over rated, at least that has been my experience. I rather be by myself, of course its tough when you want to be accepted and have fun. Watch your back though if anyone finds out. I am not saying you will have trouble. In these times one can never be to careful. Always think twice when a certain type of people suddenly want to be friendly. It may be totally innocent, but one can never be sure. Try to discern what their intentions are. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. If you check the bible 3 dif times, make sure to bind any lieing spirits from the book. (In the name of Jesus Christ, I bind the lying spirits from this book. I say it 3x, just in case) This way you are keeping the bad spirit from tricking you. The problem is figuring out what on the page is relevant to your situation. Sorry, I am new at the binding part. Being Catholic, I never heard of such a thing. Don't go anywhere with people you are not comfortable with; that could be the Holy Spirit guiding you. Try to have a backup plan, let other people know where you will be going and with who and try to have a backup of how to get out of it. (maybe keep some separate money or cards hidden in a separate area than a wallet or purse, because if that is stolen, you have nothing. Guard your heart, Do Not let love (or what seems like love) blind you; unless that love leads you to Jesus. Sexual attraction blinds us to things we would not normally accept. Sorry, I have been used a few times. I was blessed to not be physically hurt. Mentally, thats debatable. Always forgive people. Always try and decide for yourself what people are like, not what gossip is saying.

[@jdiane44]

To be so young and want to fight inspires me

[@bradleymosman8325]

As long as this Baby Boomer can remember, people have wanted to proclaim themselves "Counter-cultural". (first, of course, the culture had to tell them what to believe!) But it is you who will be the counter-culture presence there. After all, Church's founder was pretty counter-cultural too.

[@golfdoctorhart9426]

Read St. Paul ; you'll never be isolated when you have faith. Following Christ is rewarding fulfilling and the Way. God will provide. Rosary and Communion sustain.

[@gameologian7365]

I think most Christians need to be willing to accept that they won’t have the cushy Christian life the previous generation got to have. We need to fight the spiritual battle for coming generations to reap the rewards of our sacrifices

[@shauncollins4456]

Yeah absolutely, I think we really need to start remembering that we are a pilgrim people, a people that would die for Jesus not out of hate but out of love. Listening and reading about the early church saints and martyrs who were alive during true persecutions of the faith has helped me to be optimistic about our times. If your interested you should take a look at the writings of Luisa Piccarreta whom Jesus had revealed private revelation to in the early 1900's that foretold the world wars and earth quakes of that time. There's even stuff in her writings about our times. Anyway God bless you friend :)

[@Aengrod]

@@shauncollins4456 The devil rejoices in 'private' revelations.

[@VACatholic]

We may be like the Israelites in the desert, who have sinned so gravely that we will never see the holy land on earth. If we are, we must keep the faith for our own sakes, even if we want to see the world burn.

[@granmabern5283]

Aengrod Saint Catherine of Sienna would beg to differ. Apparitionism and FALSE mystics are devilish.

[@simonslater9024]

Question my friend how many churches did Jesus found? Protestant’s are NOT Christian. Watch the warning or illumination of conscience by Christine Watkins. Then The Papacy can not be destroyed. Then a video entitled Don’t call protestant’s Christian. There’s NO salvation outside the ONE HOLY CATHOLIC AND APOSTOLIC CHURCH founded on the infallible Rock of Peter TWO MILLENNIA AGO! God bless. Praise Jesus and Mary always!!!

[@matthaeusprime6343]

I knew Tolkien was Catholic, I had no idea the man was practically a theologian. Tremendous insight. For me he put things in perspective especially regarding the current pontificate. Thank you.

[@universalflamethrower6342]

His works reveal a deep understanding of Christianity Paganism and the workings of the world. So much so his works have to be destroyed aka reimagined. See the new Amazon series the Rings of Power. Tolkien is practically a Saint a Saint that stands in the way of the evil of a certain ideology.

[@IsraelCountryCube]

​@@universalflamethrower6342honestly, his work has been atheistized. Not sure if that is a wise decision he made.

[@lisakelly7051]

Scandal in the Church hurts. Non Catholics, fallen away Catholics, friends, family members use it as a reason to vilify my beliefs. It is difficult to protect to our Church. But I love Our Lord. It gives me strength and words to work with.. Thank you Matt for talking about this. Please do more of this as our Church is hurting. My priest alluded to this, but your program allows for a much needed head-on approach. Than kyou

[@johnosumba1980]

They leave because they don’t understand their faith and the reason they came into the Church or they were in it.

[@josephzammit6396]

I’m publishing a weekly KZbin video on episodes from the life of Don Bosco, entitled ST JOHN BOSCO by JOE ZAMMIT. In this series I’m narrating events and miracles from the splendid life of Don Bosco. St John Bosco used to perform a miracle almost every day, through the intercession of Mary Help of Christians. From the lives of saints we can learn how to love God more and draw closer to him. Thank you.

[@johnpglackin345]

@@johnosumba1980 Most of them were mislead by priests and bishops who taught either taught false teachings or did not teach at all.

[@johnosumba1980]

@@johnpglackin345 I don’t think we should blame clergy as such, Catholics individuals need to understand that learning of the faith is life continuous process, and one can only learn most by themselves and to know that what the Church give for confirmation is just basic.

[@Jindy2]

Something my mother always told me comes to mind, when we consider the crimes & scandals caused by our church: "Where there is Christ, there also goes Satan". Great insights as usual, Matt Frad!

[@peterfeltoe4808]

I like how Tolkien states if we reject the Church we are in effect rejecting Jesus and his promises.

[@saxglend9439]

Did Jesus exist or is he a myth?

[@johnbrowne3950]

Tolkien is wrong.

[@arbresistance]

@@saxglend9439 Jesus is not a myth. He lived, He has risen, He is Risen. He said that He will send His Spirit to Be with us. Take some time alone, meditate, call for Jesus, say His name once or several times, then with a faithful heart wait for His presence and help. Jesus will not fail you. Try.

[@johnbrowne3950]

@CJ P. I'm not offended by morons.

[@johnbrowne3950]

@CJ P. Thank you for proving my point.

[@americanrefugee6756]

“Faith…is the art of holding on to things your reason has once accepted, in spite of your changing moods.” -CS Lewis “Therefore revive in your memory all that you have received and heard from the spiritual worlds. Care for it in your soul, and change your heart and mind. If you do not awaken to higher consciousness, I will come like a thief; you will not know at what hour I will come upon you.” (Revelations 3:3) “But I have the reproach to make against you that you have deviated from your first love.” (Revelations 2:4)

[@clareritzenthaler1033]

I cannot wait 9 days for my favorite youtuber to talk about my favorite author.

[@shadowlands8490]

Tolkien was not a simpleton, the amount of intelligence that came with his books. He put evidence of real morality and visual effects war vs spiritual war bring on people. Actions bring peace or war on those around us. I believe a few impressive moral scenarios that were placed into his books were the parts where complete doom were upon the men, and their actions were to have faith (beacons of Gondor) faith in goodness (Samwise and Frodo words on dealings with Smeagol whether they should kill him or let live). As well, as Denethor's actions were completely selfish and only cared about his position rather than the livelihood and faith of others around him, Especially his own son, Faramir and his own men were sent to their deaths during the onset of evil, the "fate of men". Seems like Tolkien believed everything in the Bible was true. Amending on to the connection with Tolkien And The Bible.. Jesus flesh and his blood is his Spirit and His Word. There was a relationship in the "fellowship of the ring" with the leader of that fellowship. It wasn't in much of anything except the fact that they started together, communes together, learned about each other, and from then on they would be true to their word, their vow. Communion isn't in a building, which have been placed in by tolkien, but rather in your heart, with Someone. Which is why many catholics have doubts, doubts start in the heart. Jesus would build loyalty, not a lack of confidence in Him.

[@jimselimos4863]

@@shadowlands8490 praying for all of us!

[@mariac4602]

Matt, you asked what part of the Tolkien letter resonates personally with each of us. “Scandal’ at most is an occasion of temptation - as indecency is to lust, which it does not make but arouses. It is convenient because it tends to turn our eyes away from ourselves and our own faults to find a scapegoat.” I definitely found myself drawn to these types of videos on scandals in the Church, almost as a place to put the internal unrest I was experiencing and give it another name, another face. But over several months, a sense of unease developed as I witnessed a most un-Christlike lack of charity that came not just from those I watched but from within myself. I realized this is not the life Jesus is calling me to as His follower. That sense of shame and discomfort was my conscience, praise to God, alerting me that I had fallen into a sinful pattern. I now know that I need to bring all of me, including that sense of unrest, to the proper place-to God in prayer.

[@anthonyburke3000]

When I first became attracted to the Traditional movement I found myself going down that road with the whole VII and TLM vs N.O. stuff. Only to find myself getting upset at things which are way beyond my control or beyond my simple understanding of the faith. Who am I to be questioning a council or the validity of an approved rite? I'm just a layman. I had to turn inward and started praying for understanding and acceptance of God's will for His people and prayed for, still to this day and everyday, our Church, clergy and hierarchy. I still get frustrated with the abuses that happen in the Church and yes, I consider myself a traditionalist, but I've come to the conclusion that my journey begins and ends with Christ, all else in between are just the details and circumstances that life throws at you.

[@thomasbeardslee2418]

@@anthonyburke3000 same with me

[@thestraightroad305]

Thank you for your thoughts! I have felt the same and have even more occasion for repentance. I am taking this with me to prayer, because I have gone down this same road. Lord have mercy on me, a prideful sinner.

[@thomasbeardslee2418]

@@thestraightroad305 This seems to be a common distraction for a lot of us fallible fallen humans...pointing out others' hypocrisy instead of praying for. Conversion and true. Repentance for all..POOR IN SPIRIT. And simple pure humility....stayin in ur own lane...quite the challenge at times

[@thestraightroad305]

@@thomasbeardslee2418 Well said.

[@jeaniemccombs2200]

I just discovered the TLM Mass in February, I have been reveling in the beauty & solemnity and truly loving the priest. Just as I’m feeling comfortable with the Missal and I’m beginning to watch more and read less, boom! Pope Francis attacks it with apparent determination to destroy it and the wonderful priest is hospitalized with COVID. I have been so angry with Pope Francis, I pray for him daily, but my prayers have been telling God what he needs to do to fix the pope. This video was helpful because it reminded me that I am not responsible for telling God what to do or for judging the pope. I need to go back to that certainty I had when I converted, trust God, enjoy the Mass and let it go. Thank you for your help.

[@resetsetmefree478]

So sorry, blessings to you and don't give up the TLM

[@golfdoctorhart9426]

Stay with the true and sacred mass 2 yrs. for me has given me humility, introspection, joy, and a growing union to Christ and Mary.

[@echoofthevoiceinthewildern3008]

Hi friend Jesus has your answer in Revelation chapter 18 verse 4

[@resetsetmefree478]

@@echoofthevoiceinthewildern3008 Jesus IS the answer!!

[@christianfreedom-seeker934]

I’ll clue you in on something: Several million Protestants can’t be wrong! Read a KJV, liberate yourself from spiritual sin.

[@marysmyth8687]

What struck me was " Hang on in there". I have felt so angry with the CC in Ireland for not giving full genuine strong support to the Prolife Movement. They were spineless cowards. I was an activist. Abortion was legislated after a referendum on May 25 th 2018. I left for a year. I'm back , my faith is even stronger, but I still struggle with the CC . It needs a clean out , and those who are there replaced with courageous priests and bishops who are fearless

[@billhegeman203]

Jesus is still there.

[@jimselimos4863]

@@billhegeman203 Jesus is everywhere, we pray! We wish He is clearer everywhere, though.

[@susluke]

Yeah just remember to always pray for your priest and Bishops in your local town especially as the Holy Spirit hears everything and will do whatever possible to correct the Church, priests and Bishops but people have to PRAY PRAY PRAY and never stop sooo soon. Just do it every day for the rest of your life because if you stop praying for them or even the nuns then everything will become weaker and weaker cause the Devil and his demons NEVER EVER sleep, please think about that. They are always on full attack onto the nuns, priest Bishops, ect...because they are the frontline people that always have to go into battle head first to help clear the way for the lay people to get closer to God. They have to help make the way to lead to God, think about how much the Devil hates them. Please don’t think to quick to judge them, some priest end up in hospital for a while cause they get attacked sooo much spiritually. They become weaker and weaker. Never ever stop praying for your local priests, nuns, Bishops, ect, Also pray for the worlds clergy to have strength and courage to do the right thing and speak the right thing in their churches ect. GodBless 🙏❤️🙏

[@johnsmythe7940]

Fr Altman find him on KZbin. Or other Priests.

[@juanminotti9809]

@Bill Dauterive The situation in where I live,Argentina, is not so different from what the irish person has told. Here there were and still are a lot of coward priests,culminating in the pass of the abortion law,as it wasnt denounced by the church more firmly(luckily a judge has stopped momentarily the law from being carried on,but it still exists).

[@DBlue92_]

I am reminded of a quote by St. Anthony. “Expect temptation to your last breath”. Let us rise every time we might fall by the Lord’s Grace

[@stevensonDonnie]

I hear the problems in the Church, I get so angry I pray the rosary. Afterwards I feel like I have actually done something.

[@stevensonDonnie]

@@dan69052 you spend your time raging about something you know nothing about. Did you know the Catholic Church is the biggest NGO in the world? Did you know the Catholic Church feeds millions and millions of people every day and works with them too and starvation all over the world. The Catholic Church even teaches those and feeds those who are not Christian. Every day. All over the world. We have the problems of the church and they went undetected for years but thank God!, we are beginning to clean it up. A charge of 1.3 billion people will have problems. As for God, if you don’t believe then you’re in the wrong place. Not on the Internet but in your mind. If you believe there is nothing greater than self they need to expand your horizons sir

[@notdonaldst]

@@dan69052 Ed, you seem pretty steamed up about “holy men chanting dribble” when “people are starving for help.” As for me, I know I have to “chant dribble” to God because I try hard to help the people in my own city who are in need of food, clothes and shelter (the local homeless shelter isn’t the safest place) but I know it’s never good enough. I know that God is able to inspire others to help as well, as He has done throughout history. I also donate some $ to international charities. My wife and I don’t make much money, but hey - we’re living in the USA, so we have high standards and that “not much” money is “boatloads” to people in 3rd world nations. So I ask you this Ed: what are YOU doing to stop the “pain, suffering, child abuse and injustice” in the world? This is a rhetorical question of course. I don’t expect you to answer me but I do hope you will reflect on the question.

[@workin4alivin585]

The convenience of scandal to give us a focus for our attentions/passions outside ourselves is the #1, subtle way satan keeps us from becoming Saints. It is human nature to point out and try to fix the splinter in our neighbor's eye, rather than seriously address the plank in our own. Ironically if we all would work on our planks, the splinters out there would very nearly take care of themselves.

[@SamKnotts]

Pride 101

[@bridgetshelton556]

Beautiful!Being one of the created of the human family our only good is God!

[@kenedwards3080]

Matt, this was an excellent presentation. I felt you were talking directly to me as I wrestle daily with the sins of the Church without looking internally at my own sins. Thank you for sharing your wisdom. God bless.

[@thewalruswasjason101]

Corrupt humans that have infiltrated high positions within the church don’t usurp the word of the Lord.

[@mariac4602]

Absolutely spot on! I realized this a few weeks ago and started avoiding the angry religious KZbin videos. Go to God and trust even if you don’t have the sensory experience of God, He is still present.

[@devora8135]

I realised this this week. I'm on a Catholic news "fast" 😅....can really take ones focus away from the actual point of faith, and made me Soooo lazy

[@johnosumba1980]

That is what the devil use to divide and rule. Anger.

[@tinuvielkofs2069]

I get bombarded with alerts from KZbin for these and I'm just not interested. I can't imagine what temptation it is for people that these "news outlets" manage to hook. No wonder we're at each other's throats.

[@lovetruth5733]

That’s your demons influencing you not to do any scripture. We have WILL, and when you push on you grab the connection back to GOD again.

[@Therese-1001]

@@johnosumba1980 Like St. Teresa said, “Let nothing disturb you….God alone matters.”

[@sebastian8233]

“In the last resort, Faith is an act of Will inspired by Love”. I will remember this in my temptations!

[@americanrefugee6756]

“Faith is an act of will, inspired by our love.”

[@MaryReadsToLive]

It really helped me to hear exactly what we are throwing away when we leave the faith, and what we are saying to Christ. I loved how it made me realizw that it is our decision to stay faithful that is more important than how we feel in the moment, especailly knowing that there are other influences on our thoughts and feelings that are not from God.

[@mrballerpants3813]

His blunt discussion of what one would be saying by choosing not to believe was pretty beautiful.

[@loveandmercy9664]

This is something every Canadian Catholic needs to hear right now.

[@MaGuFer]

Every Catholic, period.

[@johnosumba1980]

Not only Canadian but every Catholic who doesn’t understand why they go to Catholic Church

[@loveandmercy9664]

The outside world doesn't understand the Canadian situation right now. We have had around 50 churches burned and vandalized due to past issues with the residential schools and most of society, the media, and politicians are on the side of the arsonists then those left without a parish. Not to mention the mob like cries for the pope to come to Canada to apologize as well as have the church's charity status revoked. Not even Catholic warriors like Taylor Marshall have commented on it.

[@aclark903]

@@loveandmercy9664 I actually agree tho, the Pope should visit Canada, if he is well enough.

[@josephzammit8483]

I’m publishing a weekly KZbin video on episodes from the life of Don Bosco, entitled ST JOHN BOSCO by JOE ZAMMIT. In this series I’m narrating events and miracles from the splendid life of Don Bosco. St John Bosco used to perform a miracle almost every day, through the intercession of Mary Help of Christians. From the lives of saints we can learn how to love God more and draw closer to him.. Thank you.

[@gunzofthenavarrone8293]

There should be no question Church Militant MUST do the difficult work they do. Their manner of doing it must be as enthusiastic as the pushback and cover ups from the hierarchy. Aside from the horrific abuses....the prelates who are carrying it out are somehow responsible for leading the flock.

[@alissonferreira2787]

Brother Matt, great colloquium this show about Tolkien. We need to help our Holy Roman Catholic Apostolic Church. We need to grow in living the virtues following sound Catholic doctrine. Don't forget to put the subtitles in Portuguese and Spanish. Saint John Henry Newman and Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception pray for you and all of us. Viva Cristo Rey !!!

[@Charliechorizo]

The Catholic (universal) Church is made up of 24 rites, one of which is Roman Catholicism.

[@Sinaisdostemposorg]

@@Charliechorizo You are confused, all the 24 rites are Roman Catholic, if they are Catholic they follow the Pope from Rome.

[@jacksoncastelino04]

Please pray for the Restoration of Traditional Latin Mass

[@brucebrosnahan1425]

@Timmy Schnitzel - is correct in what he says. The Catholic Church, that is her proper name, has 24 Rites, which are each a long-standing, stable way of offering the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. One of those Rites, and the most widespread in the Catholic Church, is the Roman Rite which from ancient times has its origin in the way the Popes offer the Mass in Rome. It now has two forms, one ancient and the other new. The former is now restricted by Rome but it still exists and what will become of it is in the hands of God's Providence. The common expression "Roman Catholic Church" can be confusing; it is correct to say "the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church". All 24 Rites of the Catholic Church are recognized/approved by the Roman Pontiff [= Bishop of Rome] and are subject to his authority as the successor of the Apostle Peter; to him alone Christ gave a singular universal authority [Matt.16:19] as the Vicar of Christ on earth. Each of the other apostles (and the bishops as their successors) is a vicar of Christ in respect of his particular flock (his diocese), but they can exercise universal authority only in union with Peter [Matt. 18:18] and his successors the Popes. The Catholic Church [translates "Ecclesia Catolica" in Greek] is not a denomination - God is not a denomination, His Son Jesus Christ the universal Saviour is not a denomination, and his Apostles on whom He built His Church did not establish a denomination, for Christ commanded them, "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations" [Matt.28:19]. The Catholic Church is the universal [Gk. 'catolica'] calling together [Gr. 'ecclesia'] of mankind. The Greek 'ecclesia' = 'out of' ('ec-') where we are, we are 'summoned' ('-clesia')].

[@eristonmansambu8225]

I never read Tolkien before but I've just decided to immerse myself into his books. My bad!

[@fragwagon]

What a wonderful read you have ahead of you.

[@edmund7290]

The characters in the Lord of the Rings books contain so much more wisdom then the movies. The moves dumb them down a bit. They are a great read. His quotes in generally are really good too, especially on marriage and faith.

[@salembookworm]

Do it! Lord of the Rings is a very Catholic book and I can absolutely recommend it. As well as his other books.

[@hemantapegu1053]

Beautiful thoughtful points to look into ourselves before pointing fingers at others to escape ones one sinfulness..

[@Angel268201]

Spread the word: GET ON YOUR FREAK’IN KNEES! 🙏🏻

[@marcberube3729]

I'm looking forward to this! Tolkien helped spark a love of literature and philosophy in me, and Matt Fradd/Aquinas sparked a love of Theology.

[@Andrea-ky9lh]

Beautiful! God bless you.

[@dan69052]

time to think I have been hearing much about the controversy regarding the Latin mass. Really! There is so much pain, suffering, child abuse & injustice in the world, yet petty bureaucrats spend their time on this made-up insignificant problem! I understand people ‘s concern about religious matters & have just listen; let them have their say, but I cannot be silent on this. This is one big crock of crap. You think an Almighty Being is concerned about which language & customs holy men use as they prance around chanting dribble? As these old useless holy men sit around & engage in their mental masturbation meetings, people are starving for help. This entire fiasco is trivia. You let this occupies your time with so many urgent needs to be addressed. Shame! The upside to all this nonsensical bickering is that people can see what a farce religion is & find it easy to leave it behind. All polls show people are leaving this mythological excrement behind. Peace

[@maryjozwiak6555]

Wow you didn’t really get the important part , and the Liturgy of the Mass is not dribble. It is the basis. Another person popping off when he knows not of which he speaks. That’s dribble.

[@galileovenica6449]

This moved me to scream like an excited teenage girl

[@lisaleopold3852]

Thank you for this. I am tempted to discouragement and it effects my prayer life. This is very helpful reminder to self deception based on self righteousness.

[@salitz91]

Fantastic video, and really what my wife and I needed this week in regards to our world. We need more of this and similar Aquinas videos!

[@chigo999]

You don't know how much this has helped me. Thank you!

[@jennychapman4512]

I love it! It's all about looking to Jesus and His Word. That's who I need to have unwavering faith in, not fallible men and their mistakes

[@theamericanfarmstead131]

This video spoke to me perfectly, thank you Matt!! God bless you and your family!

[@Vic-on5ic]

It was a pleasure to listen to Tolkien's letter. Thank you!

[@diandraannemamo]

Truly a blessing to listen to Tolkien's words. This was an immediate cure from despondency and the effects of current fear mongering. Will come back here to listen/read his letter often. I'm glad you discovered this Matt. Thank you for sharing this. God bless from Malta.

[@helenjohnson7583]

This is generally applicable to all Christians. Thank you for sharing these words with all of us!

[@jameshartlage6551]

I needed to hear this . Thank you, Matt, and God bless you

[@patrickmcteigue4072]

Thank you for another very good post. The integrity of Jesus is what I cling to, and what I have clinged to, when challenged about why I continue to believe. To me it is the rock which can carry any load !

[@PlainCometDust]

Thank you for this definition of faith. This is a comfort and encouragement to me.

[@SpiderMan-ek4sg]

Needed to hear these words of wisdom! Thank you God, Thank you Tolkien and Thank you Matt!

[@marysmyth8687]

Excellent. From Ireland. My Dad, God rest him, loved CS Lewis. Very well explained. Thank you . I am sending this to many people.

[@FreedomFighterMOM]

Beautiful. Will share this to our children.

[@natalieanderson8803]

Thanks for the amazing video as always! God bless!!

[@fandago2008]

Really enjoyed this, thanks Matt!

[@andrewfioramonti7919]

What a letter, thanks hemano. I needed to hear this for my marriage. It gave me the same line of thought: I either accept this marriage I am in and believed in as a younger man, or I need to stand in front of my wife and reject her. And I don't plan on the latter. Thanks again.

[@juliablom3461]

God bless you and your marriage Andrew Fioramonti

[@seandegidon4672]

Wow, thank you. We need this reminder so much right now! Although I haven't been tempted to outright apostacy, my temptations and frailties are all over this video/letter. Great spiritual direction!

[@lisam731]

Beautiful video. Thank you very much. There are days where I need a jumpstart on my faith and check myself. Praying even if it is a brief talk in my heart helps. Not always easy, but just the littlest gesture helps. Thank you again and God bless.

[@themobbit9061]

That was fantastic. Thank you for presenting it and thank you JR our brother in heaven for those insights and the faith you displayed in life. I happen to be rereading the LOTR right now!

[@Gilfanon-2]

Loved the Tolkien letter and anything by CS Lewis is insightful and encouraging, pari passu.

[@deirdrelewis1454]

My 2 favourite writers! Lewis is the theologian I most easily relate to. Tolkien is arguably the finest English writer of all time.

[@wynbrown7321]

And G. K. Chesterton.

[@jeffreyevich4974]

Matt, I have been following your work for some time now. From your interviews to videos such as this, you have truly found Your Voice. Well done, and may the Holy Spirit continue to guide you as you lead others to discover the faith.

[@barbaradelpino4020]

THANK YOU - this was wonderful....love, love, love Lewis and Tolkien ❤

[@clairekurdelak2913]

Thank you! I will share this with my teens. And yes, I love the Hallow app, it’s great!

[@joekeegan937]

An excellent talk Matt!

[@Retrogamer71]

The most sensible account of the nature of faith and its importance I have ever encountered. Good job, Matt Fradd.

[@sandramillar9067]

Thank you! You have expressed into words what I have not been able to do and to your point of becoming passionately indignant over a cause can become a scapegoat for me and keep me from looking inwardly at my sinful nature. A million thank yous. Bless you. Your work is helping very much! 🙏

[@holdenedwards8506]

I can’t describe how happy I am to have found this channel and podcast. Crux sacra sit mihi Lux. Ave Christus Rex. Salve Regina Maria.

[@tinuvielkofs2069]

This is a great breakdown on a fantastic, timeless letter.

[@alphacharlietango969]

Most social justice issues are not based on truth but are distractions from what is important.

[@jtjt3622]

Nice one Matt loved this video

[@IIIUMlNATI]

Spread the word everywhere, especially cali residents! Larry Elder for California Governor!

[@michaelleppan9960]

Kevin Paffrath😋

[@kmcocoa]

What an inspiring talk; thank you for your insight and for sharing it. God bless you.

[@laurenlee961]

I loved this episode. Great job and I needed to hear this. Vivo Christo Rey!

[@raykapsa5886]

Looking outward to get upset and feel like a justified crusader and avoid dealing with things in yourself, that hit me hard, but if I can remember that before I start scrolling next time I think it’ll really will help me focus on places where I can make a difference and prevent me from just sitting and stewing in negativity

[@Denis461997]

The moments of doubt and the *point* of "accept him or not but there's no middle-ground" while having in consideration that the church can't be perfect and scandal-free cause is full of imperfect human beings that are not in the heavens yet

[@standingathwart]

Thank you for sharing this letter.

[@deogratias273]

The thing that strikes me most is Tolkien's recommendation of frequent and prayerfully intent Holy Communion, as an antidote for lack of faith (and let's face it, who doesn't suffer from weakness of faith).

[@nojo1986]

Unbelievable. Up at 3am with questions in my gut about my faith and then choices I've made based on it. Had the video paused around 3.30 and started it up again and feel like the Tolkien quotes were directed right at me. ❤️

[@josemiguelmarquescampo4902]

Thank you. Tolkien is a sublime Catholic genius. Always new insights! I hosted a radio programme here on his life and inspired literary works. Blessings from Spain. +Father JM

[@suec2297]

What struck me is the connection between passion and issues that are clearly needing to be addressed but that do not require me to look within .. and also the temptation to be scandalized ... when in fact I need to address, confess and ask for the grace of Christ to diffuse my own scandalous nature. Also how deeply impacted by Tolkien’s statement of fate (in addition to his fiction writing) impacted CS Lewis Thank you.

[@amyraab8326]

This was great Matt Thank you 😊 🙏🙏🙏

[@IloveJesusChristNowandForever]

Such a good topic and good observations. Pray and pray often. Reflect upon our own selves. Seek humility. God bless you.

[@xzeros1]

Spot on! Thanks for sharing...

[@vandanobre5853]

Faith is an act of will. This is what I needed to hear.

[@akionataito5458]

THANK YOU. You are special. To me anyone who can publicly proclaim in affirming the truth of our Catholic faith is a true disciple of our Lord. Cannot thank you enough ALL of you who give of your time and energy in enlightening us with great teachings and testimonials on KZbin channels which deepens and strengthen our faith. May your work continues with guidance and wisdom of the Holy Spirit with blessings.

[@meganwalsh4775]

Outstanding point.....stay in the church fight for the good global works social justice, environmental justice, health justice, respect for life justice, the end of poverty and the propagation of the gospel through Christ's love.

[@shellysmith2231]

I very much appreciated this clip and advise. The scandal and shut down almost caused me to walk away but the more I studied the history of the Church I understand why the devil wants to destroy it. My faith has been renewed and strethed yet again.

[@1957val]

Thank you so much for sharing. I need to hear this. We Catholics all could benefit from listening to these words.

[@stevedevine6380]

Good job. This helped me when I struggle with my faith.

[@eduardobarreira7959]

Matt Fradd, Tolkien is a magnificent Catholic reference. Congratulations on this excellent class. Put the subtitles in Portuguese, and in Spanish too.

[@alissonferreira2787]

Yes. This show was very important historically and apologetically in the Catholic and doctrinal aspect. To put portuguese and Spanish subtitles, Matt.

[@lynnehood2198]

How fun it would be to sit down to tea with you or a small group like you. I hope to be blessed someday to meet someone like you .

[@BCSTS]

You provide so much insight, astute observations of what is happening in the church, while at the same time helping us understand the importance of seeing also the darkness of our own attempts to be self righteuos (while pointing the finger at others) instead of concentating on the Essence of our Faith, Jesus Christ Crucified....and asking ourselves what is the plank in my own eye that I am ignoring....ie. Let us focus on growing in Christ & all that implies, while using the weapons of prayer, fasting & good works....to be part of the solution! This we do have control of. GOD BLESS YOU for this channel...I can get so worried/discouaged by all the videos on both sides of the battle. Your choice of guests, your warm, intelligent presentation....and honest attempts to point toward Jesus & truth is such a blessing !

[@teresameyer9867]

What a wonderful explanation of Faith thank you so much. Teresa

[@JavierViramontesR]

Sir, thank you for keeping strong during this destruction. Appreciate the video.

[@slohand624]

I do watch many pod casts that bring & spotlight the current state of the church to the forefront of my mind - and I feel that frustration and anger - happily I have not fallen into apostasy - But Tolkien letter provides (&your commentary) insight I hadn’t thought of - and I think will help me spiritually and emotionally when watch and hear about the scandals and failings of the men who are set before us as priests of Holy Mother Church - TY

[@rabbster7]

I think what I most needed to hear from that, was when he said it's a choice. That put it so well into my mind, to not be so put off when most of the time I don't FEEL a very strong faith. I'm very recently back to being a practicing catholic and I knew there would be no magical feelings of faith but even still sometimes it bothers me when I don't feel very holy and strong in my faith. Knowing that feelings aren't the biggest part of having faith is great to hear, because I had been worried I would need to feel magical feelings of faith. Now I know my persistence was worthwhile and when I vary in how much I can feel God near me and how much I believe in him and his powers, I don't think it will bother me as much. It's nice to hear sensible words when I'm so fresh to catholicism. They struck a cord with me definitely.

[@wenshan9101]

Johnathan decided to leave the Church. The teenager could make no sense of the politics and gossips. His dad said, "Very well. Seek Him in the woods, seek Him on lofty mountains, on rushing rivers, in the ebbing tides, in the song of the birds or the webs of spiders. And when you are ready to receive Him, come back to Church."

[@theresagahappy]

My toast just dropped through the grate onto the floor of the toaster oven. That is how my every day faith journey is. Every single day, I have to pick up the slices of pride, fear, anger, sloth; all the things that lead me away to a dark and dreary place. I have to return to Jesus and know that I am not God and I am not in charge of changing the world, but only a small pebble on the beach to do what God wants me to do. I do believe we cannot hide our light under a bushel, but be brave to share our faith. But first we have to be in control of growing it! I thank God for you and people like you who are available and honest and knowledgeable and seeking knowledge to share with us.

[@memyandmine]

Love is an act of the will. Faith is an act of an informed will.

[@michaelwhite8031]

I am not a Catholic, but these are wise words that tell us not to judge, but to love one another in Christ.

[@17cmmittlererminenwerfer81]

Thanks for the link.

[@lukelshsvp]

"Faith is an expression of the will". I love that and the comparison with love as a choice. You can also te virtue of hope. That spoke to me.

[@prfesrfrink]

I wish I had read this over sixteen years ago. I recently returned to the faith and truly, like love, faith takes effort in the good times and especially in the bad times. Thank you and God bless!

[@voyello]

Interview with Michael Voris .....Please...

[@ChristabelOz]

It is truly inspiring to hear Tolkein's perspective of faith.At times I too doubt my faith and wonder about my calling in this life.This video has really helped me to understand my faith is important today and everyday till I exist in this world.I do believe that that Jesus is someone I trust and He will hold my hand now and forever.Thank you for sharing!

[@captmadmex]

I just want to say, I in joyed your words in these days I work on my faith.

[@thomasleise7012]

To make this short: when you die, all that matters is how you lived your life and how much you were able to do God's Will.

[@johnbrowne3950]

Salvation has nothing to do with works.

[@ProdigalSon684]

True! Salvation depends upon receiving the Grace from God, AND Faith WITHOUT works is dead!

[@johnbrowne3950]

@@ProdigalSon684 Dead doesn't mean you lose yor salvation. Works should follow salvation or you are not much good to the kingdom of God. However, "For by grace are you saved through faith and not of yourselves, it is a gift of God, not of works lest any man should boast." - Ephesians 2:8,9 So if salvation is not of works, not doing works can't cause you to lose your salvation.

[@ProdigalSon684]

@@johnbrowne3950 So says the church of John Browne.

[@thomasleise7012]

Epistula Iacobi 2 Epistle of James 2 V. 20-26 20 Jamesvis autem scire o homo inanis quoniam fides sine operibus otiosa est But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? 21Abraham pater noster nonne ex operibus iustificatus est offerens Isaac filium suum super altare Was not Abraham our father justified by works, offering up Isaac his son upon the altar? 22vides quoniam fides cooperabatur operibus illius et ex operibus fides consummata est Seest thou that faith did cooperate with his works and by works faith was made perfect? 23et suppleta est scriptura dicens credidit Abraham Deo et reputatum est illi ad iustitiam et amicus Dei appellatus est And the scripture was fulfilled, saying: Abraham believed God, and it was reputed to him to justice, and he was called the friend of God. 24videtis quoniam ex operibus iustificatur homo et non ex fide tantum Do you see that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only? 25similiter autem et Raab meretrix nonne ex operibus iustificata est suscipiens nuntios et alia via eiciens And in like manner also Rahab the harlot, was not she justified by works, receiving the messengers and sending them out another way? 26sicut enim corpus sine spiritu emortuum est ita et fides sine operibus mortua est For even as the body without the spirit is dead: so also faith without works is dead.

[@luciennenelson6354]

Truly I marveled at Tolkien’s definition of faith and his response to his son’s dullness of faith. Love you misitry

[@hyweldda56]

Excellent podcast. Thank God for the wisdom of the past.

[@billhegeman203]

Faith is steady-not quite permanent as Matt said, but a gift from God that we can try to hold onto.