Episode 17: Sunday Morning Roundtable with Dr Kwasniewski and Friends: Hyper-Papalism vs. Local Catholic Life

Host Dan Sevigny leads a Sunday morning roundtable at Sanctus Ranch with Dr. Peter Kwasniewski, Dr. Ed Schaefer, and Nick Cavazos discussing traditional Catholicism under Pope Leo XIV.

Pope Leo XIV: Early Assessment Six weeks into the new pontificate, panelists note widespread relief compared to the Francis era. Leo's speeches show marked improvement, though some appointments remain concerning. Will this be a "truce" or genuine restoration?

The Obedience Crisis Deep discussion on papal and episcopal authority limits. Dr. Kwasniewski argues Benedict XVI's "what was sacred remains sacred" established unchangeable dogmatic fact. Can bishops legitimately forbid approved liturgical practices like ad orientem worship?

Priestly Faculties and Latin Mass Complex canonical questions: Can bishops deny priests the right to celebrate traditional Mass? Dr. Schaefer argues priests with public faculties should celebrate any approved rite. Gray areas emerge in Church law regarding liturgical control.

Hyper-Papalism Problem Critique of treating papal statements as oracular pronouncements. Dr. Kwasniewski advocates returning to localized Catholic life, citing medieval Catholics who lived without knowing the Pope's identity. The danger of making papal commentary central to Catholic life.

High-Commitment Religion Sociological data shows high-commitment religions retain members while "low-commitment Catholicism" causes exodus. The Church's 60-year experiment with watered-down commitments has failed. Traditional communities demonstrate authentic discipleship's power.

Practical Family Guidance Parents must recognize Fourth Commandment duties for proper Catholic formation:

• Drive hours for traditional Mass
• Relocate near traditional communities
• Remove children from public schools (sinful except in grave circumstances)
• Daily catechesis with traditional resources
• Restrict harmful entertainment

Singles should consider relocating near established traditional communities for future family formation.

Beauty and Community Dr. Kwasniewski emphasizes surrounding ourselves with authentic beauty as spiritual nourishment. In an "unrelentingly ugly" world, Catholics must create transcendent beauty in homes and worship.

Dr. Schaefer stresses building Catholic community networks to support high-commitment living, especially when children face secular society.

Current Crisis Perspective Potentially the Church's worst crisis due to subtlety and chaos. Unlike past dogmatic controversies, current crisis involves unclear lines across doctrine, morals, and liturgy. The primordial heresy: questioning tradition's transmission and authority.

Call to Action: Focus on personal sanctification, seek beauty, build supportive communities, make sacrifices for authentic formation, and trust approved liturgical traditions over crisis obsession.

Learn More & Support Us:

RestoringChristianCulture.org

TheRCCI.org

Episode 16: Exposing the Canceled Priest Scandal with Father John Lovell

Hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny welcome Father John Lovell, a diocesan priest removed from ministry for 14 years despite no canonical penalties. The conversation exposes shocking financial mismanagement in Catholic nonprofits and announces two new organizations to support faithful priests.

The Canceled Priest Crisis Father Lovell represents thousands of priests removed for defending truth, tradition, or opposing mandates. Removed by Bishop Malloy in 2012 using "non-penal, non-judicial" procedures that sidestep canon law, he receives only $1,700 monthly from his diocese while the Vatican has ruled his removal cannot be permanent.

Financial Scandal Exposed Dan Sevigny's investigation of a prominent canceled priest organization's 990 tax forms reveals devastating mismanagement: only $42,747 reached 7 priests (averaging $6,000 each) - approximately 6 cents per dollar donated. Over $1.5 million sits unused while executive compensation remains high and financial transparency is nonexistent.

Coalition Collapse Father Lovell founded the organization but was removed as a scapegoat after attempting to implement proper financial controls, monthly reporting, and investment strategies. Despite purchasing housing for priests, the board evicted him after his removal, damaging his credit.

New Solutions Launched

Unprofitable Servants: Partnership between Father Lovell and RCC Initiative providing $10,000 annual grants plus up to $25,000 additional support (minimum $35,000 living wage) with complete transparency and monthly reporting. Website: unprofitableservants.org

Companions of St. John Fisher: Addressing priestly isolation through fraternity, housing, retreats, and community building. Inspired by SSPX priory models where priests live together during the week.

The Bigger Picture RCC Initiative has already provided over $100,000 in support to canceled priests, with plans for multiple "safe houses" nationwide. The mission extends beyond priest support to building Catholic communities around traditional education and forming the next generation.

Key Takeaways

• Learn to read 990 forms and hold Catholic nonprofits accountable
• Understand the systematic persecution of faithful priests by chancery officials
• Support transparent organizations with direct pass-through funding models
• Build alternative Catholic structures outside compromised diocesan systems

Resources:

• unprofitableservants.org - canceled priest fund
• thercci.org - Restoring Christian Culture Initiative
• restoringchristianculture.org - podcast reviews
• Crisis Magazine article by Dan Sevigny

Father Lovell's "Hope in the Desert" podcast returning soon.

Episode 15: From Evangelical to Traditional Catholic with Nick Cavazos

In this compelling episode, hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny welcome Nick Cavazos, a 27-year-old theology teacher, podcaster, and speaker who has become a prominent voice in traditional Catholic circles. Nick shares his unique conversion journey and offers insights into what's drawing young people to traditional Catholicism.

Key Topics Discussed:

Nick's Conversion Story

• Baptized Catholic at 3 months but raised evangelical Protestant
• Parents' spiritually mixed marriage and its impact on faith formation
• His journey through Calvinism and deep theological study
• The pivotal moment: attending his first Traditional Latin Mass at St. Mary's Cathedral in Austin
• How a Marian prayer experience and the beauty of the TLM led to his conversion

What Young People Want from Faith

• Three key desires: clarity, purpose, and authentic leadership
• How traditional generations failed to teach the value of suffering
• The impact of pornography and digital culture on young Catholics
• Why young people are drawn to "in your face Catholicism" that's uncompromisingly theocentric
• The generational swing back toward traditional values among young men

Teaching and Catholic Education

• Current role teaching theology online at Mother Divine Grace School
• Teaching eighth grade theology at St. Martin de Porres TLM community
• The shocking gaps in Catholic education: students not knowing basic prayers, Ten Commandments, or sacraments
• The failure of parents to engage in their children's faith formation
• Why homeschooled students generally arrive better prepared

SSPX Defense and Explanation

• Detailed history of Archbishop Lefebvre and the founding of SSPX in 1970
• The seminary crisis of the 1970s that prompted the traditional movement
• Canonical status clarification: not schismatic according to Rome
• The 1988 episcopal consecrations and subsequent reconciliation efforts
• Current relationship with Rome and universal faculties granted by Pope Francis

Practical Advice for Families

• How to find Traditional Latin Masses using websites like massoftheages.com
• The importance of making sacrifices and driving distances for authentic worship
• Why parents must be willing to study their faith and teach their children
• The role of fathers in spiritual leadership and its impact on children's retention

About Nick Cavazos: Nick Cavazos is a 27-year-old theology teacher, writer, and podcaster. He teaches online at Mother Divine Grace School and provides theology instruction for the Traditional Latin Mass community at St. Martin de Porres in Dripping Springs, Texas. Nick has written for publications including 1 Peter 5 and is a frequent guest on traditional Catholic podcasts. His academic background includes undergraduate and graduate studies in theology and scholasticism.

Previous Appearances at Sanctus Ranch: Nick has spoken at multiple events at Sanctus Ranch, including the Invictus Men's Conference and serving as the commencement speaker for Lumen Christi Academy's graduation ceremony.

Resources Mentioned:

• MassOfTheAges.com - for finding Traditional Latin Mass locations
• SSPX website for chapel locations
• Baltimore Catechism for basic Catholic formation
• St. Thomas Aquinas's Summa Theologica
• Kennedy Hall's book defending SSPX
• Scott Hahn's "The Fourth Cup"

Connect with RCC:

• Website: RestoringChristianCulture.org

Episode 14: Why Young Catholics Are Leaving the Faith (And What Actually Works) With Dr. Ed Schaefer

In this eye-opening episode, hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny welcome Dr. Edward Schaefer, founder and president of Collegium College in Kansas City, Missouri. Dr. Schaefer shares his journey from 20 years at a Jesuit university to founding an authentically Catholic college and reveals groundbreaking research about the Traditional Latin Mass movement.

Key Topics Discussed:

The Birth of Collegium College

• Dr. Schaefer's departure from a Jesuit university after witnessing institutional decline
• The founding story: from dinner table conversation to reality in 2015
• Challenges faced during Traditionis Custodes and relocating from Maryland to Kansas City
• Why all Collegium students come from homeschool backgrounds, not diocesan schools

Shocking Survey Data on TLM Attendance

• Results from 500+ respondents about Traditional Latin Mass attendance
• Primary reason people attend TLM: aesthetics and beauty (not theological conviction)
• Why TLM attendees "float" between masses: convenience and distance
• The Maryland parish case study: 150 TLM attendees who didn't follow the mass when canceled

The Crisis in Catholic Retention

• 83-93% of young Catholics have stopped attending any mass
• TLM communities show 98% retention rate among 18-32 year olds
• The crucial role of fathers in spiritual leadership
• Why Pope Francis was right about theological incompatibility between the masses

Practical Solutions for Families

• The importance of Catholic education and understanding TLM theology
• Finding and committing to traditional communities
• Making necessary sacrifices for authentic Catholic formation
• Building communities that support faithful living

About Dr. Schaefer: Dr. Edward Schaefer is the founder and president of Collegium College, a traditional Catholic liberal arts college. He previously served 20 years on the faculty of a Jesuit university as choir director and professor. He is currently writing a book titled "Is the Traditional Movement Dead?" based on his extensive research into TLM attendance patterns and Catholic retention rates.

About Collegium College: Collegium College is a traditional Catholic liberal arts institution located in Kansas City, Missouri. The college serves homeschooled students seeking an authentic Catholic education rooted in tradition. More information available at the-collegium.org.

Upcoming Event: This episode was recorded before the "Securing Sacred Ground" fundraising event at Sanctus Ranch, where Dr. Schaefer served as one of the speakers alongside other distinguished guests.

Connect with RCC:

• Website: RestoringChristianCulture.org

Resources Mentioned:

• Books on Traditional Latin Mass theology and history
• Peter Kwasniewski's apologetic works on the TLM
• Survey data on Catholic retention rates
• Information about traditional religious orders and parishes

This week on the Restoring Christian Culture Podcast, hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny are back for a frank, no-holds-barred conversation about the latest upheaval in Catholic education in San Antonio.

A sudden Catholic school closure has sent shockwaves through the local faithful—causing teachers and families to scramble, and prompting a surprising response from church leadership. Marco and Dan share the behind-the-scenes story of how Lumen Christi Academy was called to stand in the breach, the controversy over diocesan prohibitions, and why authentic independent Catholic education matters now more than ever.

Here’s what you’ll hear about in this episode:

A Catholic School’s Sudden Closure: The rapid collapse of a well-known, traditionally-minded Catholic school and the scramble that followed for teachers, families, and options.

Charter School Takeover: Why a public charter school (not even Christian in identity) is moving into a space once built and funded by generations of Catholic donors, and what that means for Catholic identity.

Lumen Christi Academy’s Open Door: How Marco and the team at Sanctus Ranch responded with charity and initiative—offering a real Catholic alternative without diocesan backing or government strings.

Diocesan Pushback: The hosts discuss the Archdiocese’s public prohibition against families choosing independent Catholic schools and explore the real reasons behind this resistance.

Free Speech and Catholic Dialogue: The troubling trend of censorship within Catholic social media groups, moms’ groups, and local forums that suppresses open discussion and parental discernment.

Why Independence Matters: A candid explanation of why Lumen Christi Academy refuses government vouchers and diocesan control—and the practical, sacrificial realities of being truly independent.

The Fruits of Formation: Stories from parents, students, and faculty about the authentic Catholic community and transformation happening at Lumen Christi, from daily Mass to the classical curriculum.

Real Choices for Families: Encouragement and challenges to Catholic parents—your canonical rights, your responsibilities, and the courage needed to seek out the best for your children’s souls.

Special Announcements:

Interested in experiencing the Lumen Christi difference? Visit lumenchristiacademy.org for info, tuition structure, and upcoming open events.

Mark your calendar: June 21 Gala at Sanctus Ranch, featuring Ed Schaefer (The Collegium) and Dr. Peter Kwasniewski!

Support the mission through prayer, donations, or by becoming a Guardian Angel or Godparent for a Lumen Christi student.

Take Action:

Have questions or want to tour Lumen Christi? Reach out via lumenchristiacademy.org.

Share this episode to help spread the word about authentic Catholic education—and the battle for our children’s formation.

Thanks for listening! Please consider rating the show and leaving a review—it helps other faithful Catholics find this important conversation. Prayers and blessings from the Restoring Christian Culture Podcast team!

Connect with Sanctus Ranch and Lumen Christi Academy:
LumenChristiAcademy.org | SanctusRanch.com | TheRcci.org

#CatholicEducation #SchoolChoice #ChristianCulture #SanAntonio #RestoringChristianCulture #LumenChristiAcademy

Restoring Christian Culture Podcast
Episode 12:


In this special episode, Dan welcomes first-time guest, Board Member and friend of the Ranch, John Garcia, to explore a deeply meaningful topic in Catholic tradition: the anniversary of the apparitions at Fatima and the First Five Saturdays devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Drawing from their personal journeys and practical family life, Dan and John discuss how these unfamiliar devotions have guided them toward a more vibrant and traditional practice of faith.

Key Topics Covered:

The Story of Fatima:
John recounts the miraculous events of Fatima—three shepherd children in Portugal, the visits from the Virgin Mary, the growing crowds, their unwavering testimony, and the famous Miracle of the Sun witnessed by thousands.

The First Five Saturdays Devotion:
What it means, why Our Lady asked for it, and practical tips on how to live out this devotion today: confession, Communion, praying the Rosary, and acts of reparation.

Practical Family Devotions:
The hosts share honest stories of introducing the Rosary into busy family life, the challenges faced, and how persistence leads to grace and transformation.

The Rosary: A Key to Christian Renewal:
Insights on fostering Marian devotion among men, making the Rosary a “manly” prayer, and inspiring children by living example.

Upcoming Events:
Announcement of Sanctus Ranch’s 24-hour Rosary Rally on May 30–31. Listeners are encouraged to send in prayer petitions for inclusion during the event.

Restoring a Rosary Culture:
Reflecting on the role of Marian devotion in reviving Christian culture, including film recommendations and practical advice for families seeking to restore tradition at home.

Resources and Recommendations:

Movies for the Feast of Fatima:

The Miracle of Our Lady of Fatima (1952, Warner Brothers)

The 13th Day (modern adaptation)

Rosary Rally Details:
Join the Sanctus Ranch 24-hour Rosary Rally, May 30th (1pm) to May 31st (1pm), including Mass, a Rosary procession, and crowning of Mary.

Submit Prayer Intentions:
Send your petitions to be included in the 24-hour rosary. Details available on the Restoring Christian Culture website and Facebook page.

Listener Challenge:

Wherever you are on your faith journey, Dan and John encourage you to pick up the Rosary and pray it daily. Whether you’re new or returning, let the Rosary become a central part of your family and personal prayer life. As Our Lady asked at Fatima, “Pray the Rosary every day.”

Connect with Us:
If you have questions, intentions, or topics you’d like us to cover, reach out on our website or social media. Don’t forget to rate and subscribe!

Restoring Christian Culture Podcast
Restoring faith, family, and culture—one prayer at a time.

In this landmark episode, Dan Sevigny and his son, Mathias, sit down together at Sanctus Ranch to discuss one of the most exciting developments in Catholicism: the election of the new pope, Leo the Fourteenth—an American! Join the conversation as Dan and Mathias break down the surprising results of the conclave, the significance of a U.S.-born pope, and what this means for Catholics everywhere.

In this episode, you'll hear them discuss:

• The White Smoke Moment: Reactions from the Lumen Christi Academy community as news broke of the new pope, and the sense of awe at an American rising to the Seat of St. Peter.
• Name Significance: The importance of Pope Leo XIV choosing a pre-conciliar name and its historical and spiritual references, especially in relation to Pope Leo XIII.
• First Impressions: Reflections on Pope Leo XIV’s appearance, traditional papal vestments, and why his entrance felt so “papal."
• The American Angle: What it means for the global church to have an American pope, and the ripple effects for Catholic culture and evangelization in the U.S.
• Papacy Expectations: Why Mathias and Dan urge all Catholics to embrace a spirit of patience and prayer, giving the new pope time to lead before jumping to conclusions.
• The Augustinian Influence: Insights into the new pope’s background as an Augustinian and what that might signal for his papacy.
• Latin Mass and Tradition: Excitement around the traditional Latin Mass being celebrated in major Roman basilicas shortly after the election—a hopeful sign for traditional Catholics.
• A Generation's Opportunity: What a long papacy could mean for young Catholics, priests, and religious vocations in the coming decades.
• Restoring Christian Culture: Drawing inspiration from Pope Leo XIII’s encyclical Rerum Novarum and its vision for a truly Christian society.

Highlights & Takeaways:

• Cautious optimism prevails for Catholics across the spectrum—many hope for a return to tradition, clear teaching, and a quieter, more prayerful papacy.
• Linguistic fluency and global experience may make Pope Leo XIV uniquely equipped to serve the modern Church.
• The presence of an American pope opens fresh doors for evangelization and healing inside the Church, especially for those who have stepped away in difficult times.

Stay Connected:

• Follow updates and the ongoing mission to restore Christian culture at Dan’s Substack (search “Restoring Christian Culture Initiative”).
• Check out Mathias’s Substack: “Ever Ancient, Ever New.”

Thank you for listening! Please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast—and share this episode with anyone curious about this momentous change in the Catholic Church.

God bless,
The Restoring Christian Culture Podcast Team

Restoring Christian Culture Podcast
Episode 10: Papal Conclave – Breaking Down the Process, the Players, and What’s Next

It's a historic and intense time for the Church, and in this episode, the RCC team dives into everything surrounding the upcoming papal conclave. Join your hosts Marco Salinas and Dan Sevigny, and fan-favorite returning guest "Vatican insider" Matthias Sevigny as they unpack the death of the Pope, how the process works, key contenders, and what the future of the Church might look like.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Reflections on the Pope’s passing and the initial days of mourning
• How the Church handles the transition and what the “interregnum” means
• The rituals, logistics, and historic traditions of papal funerals and conclaves
• How the Cardinals are selected, who the real contenders are, and myths about the “mainstream media” lists
• Detailed discussion of “papabile” (potential popes) from across the spectrum: who’s a frontrunner, who’s a long shot, and why experience in the Curia matters
• What goes on behind-the-scenes in the days leading up to the conclave
• Discussion about speculation, betting, and Catholic culture humor (white smoke at Sanctus Ranch, anyone?)
• Honest takes on the need for stability and holiness in Church leadership, and the critical role of the laity
• Insights into what a new papal name says about a pontificate – and why it matters

Bonus:
Matthias announces his new Substack publication, Ever Ancient, Ever New, where he explores liturgy, feasts, and inside perspectives on the papal conclave. Don’t miss his upcoming articles on catholic tradition and the details of this conclave!

Links and Resources:

• Subscribe to Matthias Sevigny’s Substack: Ever Ancient, Ever New
• Support the Restoring Christian Culture Initiative: rcci.org

Join the Conversation:
Who do you think will be the next pope? What do you hope for the future of the Church? Share your thoughts and reactions! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review wherever you listen.

Contact & Support:
For more content, episode archives, or to support the show and join the Restoring Christian Culture movement, visit rcci.org.

Thanks for listening! Stay tuned for our post-conclave wrap-up and analysis once the white smoke appears!