Confession can feel intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be.

In this episode of Practicing Catholic, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger walk through what the Sacrament of Confession really is, why it matters, and how to approach it with confidence. Whether it’s been a few weeks or a few decades, they offer practical, realistic tips to help you make a good confession without getting stuck trying to make a “perfect” one.

They explain what Confession actually does and why it’s such a gift, break down the three essential parts of the sacrament, and share simple ways to examine your conscience without unnecessary stress. Along the way, they emphasize that sometimes the best advice is simply to go, while also addressing common struggles like fear, forgetfulness, and perfectionism.

The conversation also explores how frequent confession leads not just to better habits, but to deeper spiritual healing and growth at the level of the heart.

If you’ve been putting it off, this episode might be the nudge you need.

Want to dive deeper into the Sacrament of Reconciliation? Watch the Augustine Institute Series Forgiven here: https://app.formed.org/app/collections/115608

Download the Amen app to listen to the examination of conscience narrated by Scott: https://amenapp.org

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Did Jesus truly rise from the dead—or is the Resurrection only a symbol of hope?

In this episode of Practicing Catholic, hosts Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger welcome Dr. Michael Barber, Professor of Biblical Studies and Theology at the Augustine Institute, for a rich and accessible conversation on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Drawing from Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, early Christian testimony, and historical reasoning, Dr. Barber explains why the Resurrection is a real event rooted in history—and why it remains the foundation of Christian faith. From the witness of Mary Magdalene to the doubts of the disciples, from St. Paul’s bold proclamation to the surprising spread of Christianity among the Gentiles, this conversation shows how faith and reason work together.

The episode also explores how Catholics can live the Resurrection today through prayer, the sacraments, bold trust in God, and renewed hope during the Easter season.

-Listen to Dr. Barber’s talk about the Resurrection here: https://app.formed.org/app/videos/2091418

-Dr. Barber’s Book on the Anointing of the Sick: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9781540960993_the-bible-and-the-anointing-of-the-sick

-Check out Dr. Barber’s social media below!

- X (formerly, Twitter): @MichaelPBarber (https://x.com/MichaelPBarber)

- TikTok: @michaelpbarber (https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelpbarber)

- YouTube: @Michael.Patrick.Barber (https://www.youtube.com/@Michael.Patrick.Barber)

- Instagram: michaelpatrickbarber (https://www.instagram.com/michaelpatrickbarber/)

- Facebook: ProfMichaelBarber (https://www.facebook.com/ProfMichaelBarber)

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does Easter have to do with your everyday struggles?

In this Easter episode of Practicing Catholic Podcast, Taylor Kemp and Dr. Scott Hefelfinger explore the pattern of death and resurrection—not just in Christ, but in our own lives. From small daily frustrations to life-altering trials, they share personal stories of loss, conversion, identity shifts, and healing—and how God brings new life out of each one.

You’ll hear:

How “death moments” show up in ordinary life

Powerful personal stories of conversion, family brokenness, and career change

Why suffering can actually lead to deeper joy and identity

Practical ways to navigate difficult seasons with faith

How to recognize God’s providence even when you can’t see the outcome

If you’re in a hard season—or coming out of one—this episode will help you hold onto hope and recognize how God is working in the midst of it all.

Christ’s resurrection isn’t just something we celebrate—it’s something we live.

Have a question or topic idea for future episodes? Submit them here: http://practicingcatholicpodcast.com

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.