How do you know when the Pope is speaking infallibly?
In this episode of Ask A Priest, Father Tim explains what papal infallibility actually means and why it happens far less often than many people think. The last time a pope spoke infallibly was on November 1, 1950, when Pope Pius XII declared the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Papal infallibility, also called ex cathedra, happens when the pope formally defines a teaching on faith or morals from the chair of Peter. It is not every homily, interview, opinion, or public statement. When it happens, it is clear, formal, and a major moment for the whole Church.
Father Tim also explains why the Assumption mattered so deeply in 1950: in a world wounded by war and ideologies that treated people like disposable parts of a machine, the Church proclaimed that the human body is good, sacred, and made for glory with God.
Papal infallibility is not something to fear. It is a gift Christ gives His Church to protect truth, strengthen faith, and remind us that the Lord continues to guide His people through the papacy.
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Is a Priestly Blessing Magic?
When a priest gives a blessing, is it just a nice prayer or is something more happening?
In this episode of Ask A Priest, Father Tim explains what a priestly blessing really is, and why it’s not magic, but also not merely symbolic. A priestly blessing is Jesus’ love, grace, and power given through the priesthood He established.
From blessing people at Mass to blessing rosaries, water, and other sacred objects, the priest acts through the authority of the Church as an instrument of Christ. Father Tim also answers a practical question many Catholics wonder about: should people in the pews raise their hands when the priest gives a blessing?
We can all pray for blessings. We can all ask God to bless our family, friends, and neighbors. But a priestly blessing is unique because it comes through the ministerial priesthood—Jesus using His priests to bless, sanctify, and draw His people closer to Himself.
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What Advice Would You Give a Newly Ordained Priest?
What does a newly ordained priest need to hear most?
In this episode of Ask A Priest, Father Tim shares five honest and heartfelt pieces of advice for new priests entering into their vocation. From learning how to fail with Jesus, to praying a daily holy hour, to building real brotherhood with a pastor, this episode is a beautiful reflection on priesthood, fatherhood, humility, and love.
Father Tim also reminds new priests to stay rooted in their assignment, say no when needed, and celebrate the sacraments with reverence and great love. Because priesthood is not about being perfect, it’s about staying close to Jesus and letting Him love His people through you.
And of course, there’s one bonus piece of advice: become a coffee snob. It might just help you become a saint, kind of.
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Holy Tuesday (Holy Week Retreat)
Is your faith everything to you or just kind of “there”?
On this Tuesday of Holy Week, Father Tim reflects on a quiet but powerful moment from the Gospel, when John leans back against Jesus’ chest. It’s a simple image, but it reveals something deep: real faith isn’t distant or casual, it’s close, personal, and all-in.
Drawing from C.S. Lewis, this episode explores a bold truth: if the Resurrection isn’t real, Christianity means nothing. But if it is real, it changes everything. There’s no middle ground.
Faith isn’t “kind of important”. It’s either everything or it’s not. This Holy Week, where do you stand?
