Become Who You Are Podcast

Have you ever encountered a figure so influential that their legacy resonates long after their passing? Join me as I sit down with Father Jeffrey Kirby, a renowned moral theologian, to discuss the incredible impact of Pope John Paul II. Father Kirby shares a touching story about his niece's surprising unfamiliarity with the former pope, which spurred him to write the article "John Paul Who?" in the Catholic Thing. We traverse the diverse facets of John Paul II's life, from his resilience under totalitarian regimes to his contributions as a poet, philosopher, and even a skier. Discover how his tireless work shaped the Catholic Church's stance against secularism and fortified the sanctity of marriage and family. Our conversation extends to today's cultural and spiritual crises, emphasizing John Paul II's teachings on human dignity and virtue. We examine his critiques of Soviet communism and raw capitalism, and reflect on recent cultural events that mock sacred traditions. This episode is a rich exploration of a legacy that continues to inspire and challenge the faithful. -------------------------------- We're blessed to bring you this video. With your financial support, we can bring you more like this. More importantly, with your support we can fulfill our important mission at the John Paul II Renewal Center, which has been growing since 2012. Tax deductible donations can be made at: https://jp2renew.org/ Thank you and may God Bless you, The John Paul II Renewal Center team Sign up for our e-newsletter at https://jp2renew.org/ Follow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2Renewal ________________________________________ Jack Rigert is a co-founder of the John Paul II Renewal Center and leads our outreach. He is also a writer for several online Catholic outlets. Previously, Jack was a professional chef and entrepreneur who owned restaurants, real estate, and a financial service company. Dramatic “encounters” with Jesus Christ at his dying brother’s bedside and again in the Eucharist at his brother’s funeral, brought him back into the Church after a twenty-year absence. While attending graduate school in Theology, Jack came across the teaching of Pope John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body.” He immediately understood that this was the treasure he had been seeking all his life, sold everything, and now travels the country presenting Parish Missions, Retreats, and Classes. Jack has three grown children and seven grandchildren. He lives in Elburn, Illinois with his wife, Jeannie and is an active member of St. Gall’s Parish, in Elburn, IL. Contact Jack: info@jp2renew.org Read Jack's Blog substack.com/@jackrigert Follow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2Renewal Follow Father Kirby on YouTube including his daily devotional "The Morning Offering". Read Father Kirby's article here.

The Last Supper and the mockery in Paris France. Amazing that this is what France put out to showcase its culture to the world. Let's take a Biblical look at the events of the Last Supper and compare them to the opening ceremony of the Olympics. We're blessed to bring you this video. With your financial support, we can bring you more like this. More importantly, with your support we can fulfill our important mission at the John Paul II Renewal Center, which has been growing since 2012. Tax deductible donations can be made at: https://jp2renew.org/ Thank you and may God Bless you, The John Paul II Renewal Center team Sign up for our e-newsletter at https://jp2renew.org/ Follow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2Renewal ________________________________________ Jack Rigert is a co-founder of the John Paul II Renewal Center and leads our outreach. He is also a writer for several online Catholic outlets. Previously, Jack was a professional chef and entrepreneur who owned restaurants, real estate, and a financial service company. Dramatic “encounters” with Jesus Christ at his dying brother’s bedside and again in the Eucharist at his brother’s funeral, brought him back into the Church after a twenty-year absence. While attending graduate school in Theology, Jack came across the teaching of Pope John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body.” He immediately understood that this was the treasure he had been seeking all his life, sold everything, and now travels the country presenting Parish Missions, Retreats, and Classes. Jack has three grown children and seven grandchildren. He lives in Elburn, Illinois with his wife, Jeannie and is an active member of St. Gall’s Parish, in Elburn, IL. Contact Jack: info@jp2renew.org Read Jack's Blog substack.com/@jackrigert