Walking with Families: Border Ministry and the Power of Faith-Based SupportMay 9, 2026On this week’s episode of JustLove , airing the weekend before Ascension Thursday and leading into Mother’s Day, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan explores ministry, family, and faith in action. First, he welcomes Father Brian A. Strassburger, S.J., Director of Del Camino Jesuit Border Ministries, to reflect on pastoral ministry at the U.S.–Mexico border, sharing how the Church accompanies migrants, deportees, and families amid shifting migration dynamics with compassion, hope, and presence. Later, Debbie Panek, Senior Director of Social Services at Mercy Center, and Adrianny Vicente, Family Worker and Parenting Skills Instructor, join the conversation to highlight how Mercy Center’s Family Skills Program strengthens families and empowers mothers in the South Bronx, nurturing healthy parent‑child relationships and embodying the Catholic call to support, uplift, and honor families in the community. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fjustloveblog.org%2F2026%2F05%2F09%2Fwalking-with-families-border-ministry-and-the-power-of-faith-based-support%2F&title=Walking%20with%20Families%3A%2PlayPlay Walking with Families: Border Ministry and the Power of Faith-Based Support
Faith, Hope, and the Force: Exploring Catholic Spirituality and ServiceMay 2, 2026On this week’s episode of JustLove with Monsignor Kevin Sullivan , airing the weekend before “Star Wars Day” on May 4th, Monsignor Sullivan explores faith, imagination, and service through two inspiring conversations. First, he welcomes Eric Clayton, Deputy Director of Communications for the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the USA, to reflect on the Star Wars saga through a Catholic lens, drawing from his book My Life with the Jedi: The Spirituality of Star Wars to explore discernment, conscience, hope, and the call to choose the “light” through Ignatian spirituality. Later, Mariana Dueñas, Program Manager for Refugee Resettlement at Catholic Charities Community Services of New York, shares her journey as a Venezuelan immigrant and nearly two decades of service, showing how faith, the dignity of the human person, and the Gospel call to welcome the stranger guide her work with refugees and asylum seekers. This episode invites listeners to see how imagination, moral reflection, and concrete acts of compassion intersect in everyday Catholic life. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=PlayPlay Faith, Hope, and the Force: Exploring Catholic Spirituality and Service
AI, Ethics, and Conscience—Plus the Catholic Roots of RecoveryApr 25, 2026On today’s episode of JustLove , Monsignor Kevin Sullivan speaks with Professor Charles Camosy of The Catholic University of America about the ethical conflict between the U.S. War Department and Anthropic, a San Francisco–based AI company that refused to allow its Claude platform to be used in the development of autonomous weapons, exploring why Catholic moral theologians have supported the company and how AI-driven warfare challenges just war principles and human moral responsibility; in the second segment, marking Alcohol Awareness Month, he is joined by author Dr. Dawn Eden Goldstein to discuss the life and legacy of Father Edward Dowling, SJ, the spiritual mentor to Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder Bill W., and how his pastoral care and Catholic vision of human dignity helped shape a recovery movement that continues to transform lives around the world. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fjustloveblog.org%2F2026%2F04%2F25%2Fai-ethics-and-conscience-plus-the-catholic-roots-of-recovery%2F&title=AI%2C%20Ethics%2C%20and%20Conscience%E2%80%94Plus%20the%20Catholic%20Roots%20of%20Recovery" data-a2a-url="https://jusPlayPlay AI, Ethics, and Conscience—Plus the Catholic Roots of Recovery
Gardening Faith & Serving Community: Earth Day and Volunteer WeekApr 18, 2026On this week’s episode of JustLove , Monsignor Kevin Sullivan marks the weekend before Earth Day (April 22) with a conversation with Julene Jarnot, Founder and Executive Director of the Catholic Garden Network, who shares how her passion for gardening blossomed into a national ministry supporting gardens across Catholic communities as places of nourishment, prayer, and environmental stewardship; then, in recognition of National Volunteer Week (April 19–25), he is joined by Catholic Charities volunteers Nick Naccari and Fran Magenheimer of LSA (Little Sisters of the Assumption) Family Health Services in East Harlem, who reflect on their work with the LSA Afterschool Initiative and College Access Program, discussing how their backgrounds in psychology and education inform their commitment to accompanying children and families, fostering academic growth and emotional well-being, and living out a mission rooted in dignity, compassion, and community building. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fjustloveblog.org%2F2026%2F04%2F18%2Fgardening-faith-serving-community-earth-day-and-volunteer-week%2F&title=Gardening%20Faith%PlayPlay Gardening Faith & Serving Community: Earth Day and Volunteer Week
Faith at the Ballpark and a Journey Home to the ChurchApr 11, 2026On this week’s episode of JustLove , Monsignor Sullivan welcomes Father Tom Gibbons and John Scheinfeld to discuss their new documentary Baseball Beyond Belief , exploring how the rhythms and rituals of baseball reflect the deeper spiritual journey and reveal themes of wonder, community, and the search for meaning; after a brief break, the conversation turns to Michelle Benjamin of Our Saviour Parish, who shares her moving return to faith ahead of entering full sacramental life this Easter 2026, reflecting on her upbringing, rediscovery of prayer, and how she and her fiancé are building a shared future grounded in faith and the welcoming parish community that helped guide her journey.PlayPlay Faith at the Ballpark and a Journey Home to the Church
Stories of Hope and Solidarity with Kerry Robinson and Monsignor Peter VaccariApr 4, 2026On this week’s episode of JustLove , Monsignor Sullivan hosts a compelling conversation beginning with Kerry Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA, who joins via Zoom to discuss the launch of the inspiring “People of Hope” Museum—an initiative celebrating over a century of compassionate service and highlighting how storytelling can renew the Church’s mission to accompany those in need; following a brief break, Monsignor Sullivan continues with Monsignor Peter Vaccari of Catholic Near East Welfare Association, who reflects on his priestly journey and offers powerful insight into the humanitarian crises facing vulnerable communities across the Middle East, Northeast Africa, India, and Eastern Europe, emphasizing the enduring call to solidarity, faith, and hope in regions marked by conflict and hardship. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fjustloveblog.org%2F2026%2F04%2F04%2Fstories-of-hope-and-solidarity-with-kerry-robinson-and-monsignor-peter-vaccari%2F&title=Stories%20of%20Hope%20and%20Solidarity%20with%20KPlayPlay Stories of Hope and Solidarity with Kerry Robinson and Monsignor Peter Vaccari
Justice, Peace, and the Passion: Exploring Moral Theology and the Good Friday PilgrimageMar 28, 2026On today’s episode of Just Love , we have two insightful segments. First, Prof. Tobias Winright, Professor of Moral Theology at Saint Patrick’s Pontifical University in Maynooth, Ireland, joins us to discuss the intersection of Christian moral theology with public safety and social ethics. Drawing from his unique background as both a theologian and former law enforcement officer, Prof. Winright explores the Church’s Just War Theory and how its moral tradition can inform our understanding of justice, peace, and the common good in today’s world. In the second segment, Kat Stone Doyle, Director of Justice and Peace Ministries for the Archdiocese of Atlanta, reflects on the 45th annual Good Friday Stations of the Cross Ecumenical Pilgrimage. Kat shares the deep meaning of this powerful tradition, how it brings together diverse faith communities, and why the Passion of Christ continues to resonate with today’s social struggles. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2PlayPlay Justice, Peace, and the Passion: Exploring Moral Theology and the Good Friday Pilgrimage
Faith, Courage, and Legacy: Exploring OCIA and Shahbaz Bhatti’s MartyrdomMar 21, 2026On this week’s episode of Just Love with Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, we have two powerful segments. First, Marcel LeJeune, President and Founder of Catholic Missionary Disciples, joins us to discuss the growing momentum behind the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), exploring why more adults are returning to the Catholic faith and how OCIA is playing a key role in this resurgence. In the second half, Matt Yocum, author of Blood and Water: The Life and Martyrdom of Shahbaz Bhatti , speaks about the courageous Pakistani Catholic martyr who was assassinated for his unwavering defense of religious freedom. Matt delves into Bhatti’s legacy and how his story can inspire young people today to live with purpose, conviction, and compassion. Tune in for this inspiring and insightful episode! <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fjustloveblog.org%2F2026%2F03%2F21%2Ffaith-courage-and-legacy-exploring-ocia-and-shahbaz-bhattis-martyrdom%2F&title=Faith%2C%20Courage%2C%20and%20Legacy%3A%20Exploring%20OCIA%20and%20Shahbaz%20Bhatti%E2%80%99sPlayPlay Faith, Courage, and Legacy: Exploring OCIA and Shahbaz Bhatti’s Martyrdom
Women of the Bible and the Gift of BelongingMar 14, 2026On this week’s episode of Just Love with Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, we explore stories of faith, dignity, and the power of human connection. First, we’re joined by Rene Echevarria, executive producer of the new Fox limited series The Faithful: Women of the Bible , who shares what inspired the project, the challenges of bringing these ancient stories to modern audiences, and why the lives of these biblical women still resonate today. Later, we speak with Juliet Evans-Nembhard, Assistant Director of Residential Support and Services at Catholic Guardian Services, and Jeffrey Wooten, a longtime resident in one of the organization’s Bronx homes. Together, they reflect on the importance of dignity, independence, and belonging for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and the life-changing work being done by Catholic Guardian Services.PlayPlay Women of the Bible and the Gift of Belonging
Catholic Social Teaching in Action: From Grassroots Advocacy to Global AidMar 7, 2026On this week’s episode of Just Love with Monsignor Kevin Sullivan, we welcome two guests to discuss faith, justice, and our responsibility to the most vulnerable. First, Lia Romero, a leader with The Dorothea Project, a grass-roots, women-led initiative inspired by Catholic Social Teaching, shares how the movement began and how Catholic women across the country are being mobilized to speak truth and act courageously in defense of human dignity. Then, Dr. Henry Schwalbenberg, economist and Director of Fordham University’s International Political Economics and Development program, joins us to reflect on U.S. foreign policy, global development challenges, and the moral dimensions of international aid, following the publication of his recent essay on foreign aid and global poverty in L’Osservatore Romano in honor of the World Day of Social Justice. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fjustloveblog.org%2F2026%2F03%2F07%2Fcatholic-social-teaching-in-action-from-grassroots-advocacy-to-global-aid%2F&title=Catholic%20Social%20Teaching%20in%20Action%3A%2PlayPlay Catholic Social Teaching in Action: From Grassroots Advocacy to Global Aid
Faith, Civic Legacy, and Life in New YorkFeb 28, 2026On today’s episode of J ustLove, Monsignor Kevin Sullivan speaks with New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton about the ongoing Canonization Cause of Dorothy Day. The Senator reflects on what Dorothy Day’s path to sainthood means for Staten Island and how her spiritual, social, and civic legacy continues to shape the identity and values of New Yorkers today. Later, Monsignor Sullivan welcomes Eileen Tyrrell, a Manhattan-based bookstore manager and freelance writer, for a candid conversation about affordability and daily life in New York City. Eileen shares her experience navigating housing, budgeting, and career-building as a young professional, offering insight into how many New Yorkers strive to create stability in one of the world’s most expensive cities.PlayPlay Faith, Civic Legacy, and Life in New York
Sacred Seasons and a Sacred LegacyFeb 21, 2026On today’s episode of JustLove, Monsignor Sullivan speaks with Dr. Trevor Castor about the rare convergence of Lent and Ramadan, which began just one day apart this year. They reflect on the shared spiritual disciplines of fasting, prayer, and renewal observed by Christians and Muslims around the world, and the deeper meaning of these sacred seasons. In honor of Black History Month, Monsignor Sullivan also welcomes Dr. Valerie D. Lewis-Mosley for a conversation about Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman. They discuss Sister Thea’s powerful legacy, her impact on African American Catholic communities, and the progress of her Cause for Canonization.PlayPlay Sacred Seasons and a Sacred Legacy
Faith, Citizenship, and the Search for ConnectionFeb 14, 2026On today’s episode of JustLove , Monsignor Kevin Sullivan explores questions of belonging, citizenship, and human connection across history and modern life. In the first segment, he speaks with Professor Mark E. Steiner, a leading scholar of American legal history and author of Lincoln on Citizenship , about President Abraham Lincoln’s views on citizenship and immigration amid the nativist and anti-immigrant — including anti-Catholic — sentiments of his era, and how Lincoln’s thinking continues to inform contemporary debates about civic identity and immigration policy. After a brief break, Monsignor Sullivan is joined by Daniel Hussem, co-founder of SacredSpark, a new Catholic dating and matchmaking app, to discuss the current landscape of Catholic dating, what sets SacredSpark apart from other platforms, and how faith, intentionality, and human dignity are being re-centered in digital relationship building. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Fjustloveblog.org%2F2026%2F02%2F14%2Ffaith-citizenship-and-the-search-for-connection%2F&title=Faith%2C%20Citizenship%2C%20and%20the%20Search%20for%20Connection" data-a2a-url="https://justloveblog.org/2026/02/14/faith-citizenship-and-the-search-for-connection/" data-a2a-title="FaithPlayPlay Faith, Citizenship, and the Search for Connection
Education, Character, and Community Well-BeingFeb 7, 2026On today’s episode of JustLove , Monsignor Kevin Sullivan speaks with two guests on issues shaping education and community well-being. In the first segment, he sits down with Aaron Brenner, CEO of Seton Education Partners, to discuss the founding and mission of Seton and the Brilla Schools Network, what sets the Brilla model apart within the charter sector, and how the organization is expanding its vision for academically strong, character-rich education in underserved communities. After a brief break, Monsignor Sullivan continues the conversation on this Super Bowl Sunday with Dr. Rachel Volberg, Research Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, who shares insights from decades of research on sports gambling, its social and economic impacts, and community and policy approaches to minimizing gambling-related harms.PlayPlay Education, Character, and Community Well-Being
From Crisis to Contemplation: Humanitarian Witness and the Power of BeautyJan 31, 2026On today’s episode of JustLove , Monsignor Kevin Sullivan journey’s from the urgency of global humanitarian response to the enduring power of faith-filled storytelling. In the first segment, he speaks with Dr. Hussaini Abdu, Country Director for CARE Nigeria, who joins us with an on-the-ground perspective on Nigeria’s escalating humanitarian and security crisis. Dr. Abdu shares how ongoing violence and instability are reshaping daily life for ordinary Nigerians, the complex forces driving this insecurity, and how CARE is working to protect and support vulnerable communities in the midst of profound need. In the second segment, he turns to Deacon Charlie Echeverry, Producer and Creator of EWTN Studios’ new adventure-documentary series Seeking Beauty , who reflects on how faith and beauty shape the mission of Catholic media. Deacon Charlie discusses the inspiration behind the series and how storytelling rooted in truth, wonder, and beauty can draw audiences closer to God’s presence in the world. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%PlayPlay From Crisis to Contemplation: Humanitarian Witness and the Power of Beauty
Faith, Innovation, and Service: Human Dignity at the Heart of Education and CareJan 24, 2026On today’s episode of JustLove , Monsignor Kevin Sullivan explores faith, leadership, and service through two timely conversations. In the first segment, he’s joined by Fr. Nate Wills, CSC, PhD, of the University of Notre Dame’s Alliance for Catholic Education, who reflects on how Catholic schools can thoughtfully integrate artificial intelligence in ways that uphold the dignity of the human person and the values at the heart of Catholic learning communities. Fr. Nate discusses both the promise and concerns of AI use among teachers and students, and how emerging tools can strengthen relationships, support vulnerable learners, and become instruments of hope, wisdom, and integrity rather than mere efficiency. In the second segment, he speaks with Melanie Hartzog, President and CEO of the New York Foundling, about her distinguished career shaping New York City’s social service landscape—from overseeing the nation’s largest municipal budget as Director of the Mayor’s Office of Management and Budget to leading major child and family welfare initiatives. Melanie shares how her decades of advocacy continue to inform efforts to strengthen safety nets, support vulnerable communities, and improve outcomes for children and families across New York City. <a class="a2a_button_email" href="https://www.addtoany.com/add_to/email?linkurl=https%3A%2F%2Fjustloveblog.org%2F2026%2F01%2F24%2Ffaith-innovation-and-service-human-dignity-at-the-heart-oPlayPlay Faith, Innovation, and Service: Human Dignity at the Heart of Education and Care