Refiner’s Fire: The Saint John’s Seminary Podcast Series
Priestly formation does not end at ordination. Refiner’s Fire continues that journey through conversations created for our alumni, by our alumni, and for all who serve the Church. Rooted in real parish life, the series explores preaching, leadership, management, fundraising, communication, and the practical wisdom needed to serve the Gospel faithfully today.
Listen to our latest episode below:
Podcast episodes are available on: Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts
Season 1
Episode 1 — Life, Family & the Power Behind our Wounds
Hosts: Mike Manning & Fr. Denis Nakkeeran
A conversation on identity, vulnerability, faith, leadership, and moral responsibility in modern culture, including reflections on abortion and end-of-life care.
Episode 2 — The Cardinal Virtues in Action: Be, Know, Do Leadership
Hosts: Mike Manning & Fr. Denis Nakkeeran
An exploration of virtuous leadership through prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, connecting faith, character, and service.
Episode 3 — Leadership, Character, and the Challenge of Moral Injury
Hosts: Mike Manning & Fr. Denis Nakkeeran
Guest: Pete Kilner
A discussion on moral injury, ethical leadership, integrity, and the responsibilities leaders carry toward those they serve.
Episode 4 — Operation Loreto and the Role of the Eucharist in Family Life
Hosts: Mike Manning & Fr. Denis Nakkeeran
A discussion on Operation Loreto and how the Eucharist, prayer, confession, and fraternity strengthen Catholic family life.
Episode 5 — Fasting and Spiritual Renewal in Lent
Hosts: Mike Manning & Fr. Denis Nakkeeran
A reflection on Jesus in the desert and the spiritual purpose of fasting, sacrifice, prayer, and self-discipline during Lent.
Episode 6 — Forgiveness from the Heart
Hosts: Mike Manning & Fr. Denis Nakkeeran
A reflection on mercy, healing wounds, and learning to forgive through the grace of God.
Episode 7 — The Prodigal Son – A Joyful Return
Hosts: Mike Manning & Fr. Denis Nakkeeran
A meditation on repentance, mercy, resurrection, and returning to the Father through grace and hope.
Episode 8 — The Election of Pope Leo XIV
Hosts: Mike Manning & Fr. Denis Nakkeeran
A reflection on the election of Pope Leo XIV, the legacy of Pope Francis, and the meaning of the papacy and Church unity.
Season 2
Episode 1 — What is Seminary Formation?
Hosts: Fr. Denis Nakkeeran & Alex Charow
An introduction to priestly formation, seminary life, spiritual growth, and discernment.
Episode 2 — Awaiting the Blessed Hope
Host: Fr. Joseph Briody
An Advent reflection on hope, vigilance, and preparing for Christ through Scripture.
Episode 3 — Isaiah’s Promise and John’s Call to Repentance
Host: Fr. Joseph Briody
A reflection on Isaiah’s prophecies, repentance, and preparing the way for Christ.
Episode 4 — The Messenger and the Messiah
Host: Fr. Joseph Briody
A Gaudete Sunday reflection focused on joy, perseverance, and recognizing Christ’s presence.
Episode 5 — Awaiting Christ at Bethlehem
Host: Fr. Joseph Briody
An Advent meditation on Emmanuel, the Nativity, and the roles of Mary and Joseph in salvation history.
Episode 6 — Lessons from Seminary Basketball: Virtue in the Fire
Hosts: Fr. Denis Nakkeeran & Joe Jasinski
A discussion on fraternity, humility, discipline, and formation through seminary basketball.
Episode 7 — Prayer, Formation, and the March for Life
Hosts: Ryan Henderson & Liam Warner
A conversation on pro-life ministry, prayer, adoration, and the March for Life.
Episode 8 — AI for the Church: Evangelization, Risks, and Pastoral Guidance
Hosts: Saint John's Seminary Podcast Team
Guest: Matthew Sanders
An exploration of artificial intelligence, evangelization, ethics, loneliness, and human dignity.
Episode 9 — Priestly Identity in Pope Leo XIV’s Vision
Hosts: Fr. Stanislaus Achu & Dr. Michael Coughlin
A discussion on priestly identity, fidelity, fraternity, synodality, and mission inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic Letter.
Episode 10 — Mater Populi Fidelis Explained: Mary, Grace, and Clarity
Hosts: Dr. Michael Coughlin & Fr. Stanislaus Achu
A conversation on Marian theology, Scripture, and Church teaching on Mary’s role in salvation.
