How could the “good thief” live a sinful life and still go straight to Heaven?
In this episode of Ask A Priest, Father Tim answers a powerful question about St. Dismas, the thief crucified next to Jesus, and what his story reveals about repentance, mercy, and salvation.
Was there no “purgatory” for him? Was it really that simple?
The answer points to something deeper. Salvation isn’t about how long you’ve been good. It’s about the depth of your love and surrender to Jesus. In his final moments, the good thief makes a complete, humble, and public turn toward Christ, and Jesus responds with mercy. This episode is a powerful reminder that Jesus isn’t limited like we are, and His mercy is bigger than we can imagine. It’s never too late to turn to Him. But it’s not about fear, it’s about love.
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Why Do Catholics Genuflect?
Why do Catholics get down on one knee when they enter the church? It’s more than a ritual. More than tradition. It’s a response to Love. Father Tim reveals how genuflecting began, why it sets Christianity apart, and how bending the knee reminds us: Jesus is greater than myself, and He has already given His heart to me. Whether it’s in church, in marriage, or in moments of awe, kneeling is our way of saying: I give my heart in love and adoration.
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Is Catholic Guilt Bad?
Have you ever made a mistake and then started thinking you are the mistake? In this episode of Ask A Priest, Father Tim breaks down the difference between good Catholic guilt and bad Catholic guilt. Good guilt says, “I did something wrong”, like a check-engine light that moves you toward mercy, healing, and confession. Bad guilt says, “I am wrong,” and that’s not guilt anymore, that’s shame. From Adam and Eve hiding in Genesis to the Father who always comes looking for us, this is a reminder that your identity is not your sin. Jesus is always running toward you. You just have to turn around and run back.
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What’s The Proper Posture At Mass?
Have you ever wondered if you’re doing the right gestures at Mass?
In this Ask A Priest episode, Father Tim answers common questions about posture during the Mass and what the Church actually asks of us. While some gestures are optional and left to personal devotion, the deeper meaning of these moments points us to something much bigger.
Father Tim explains how the priest sitting after the purification of the vessels echoes the Ascension of Jesus, when Christ sits at the right hand of the Father after accomplishing the work of salvation. Just as the apostles were then sent out to proclaim the Gospel, the Mass sends us out too, reminding us that what happens at the altar is not the end of the story, but the beginning of our mission.
