A caller named Mona asks, "Are the Sacraments and Mass valid if a priest is in a state of mortal sin?" Father Dave answers that yes, as long as the priest is validly ordained and uses the proper matter and form during the Mass, Sacraments are valid, even if the priest is not in a state of grace. He explains the difference between licit and valid, and points out that the priest should not celebrate Mass while in the state of mortal sin, but if he does, it affects him personally, but does not affect the rest of us. Original Air 8-30-17

A caller named Mike asks, "Who is the 'beloved' disciple mentioned in the Gospels?" Father Dave points out that the mention of the beloved disciple only occurs in the Gospel of John, and the phrase refers to the Apostle John. It's possible that this phrase is used as a statement of humility, in not wanting to name himself. Original Air 4-10-18

A listener named Mike asks about records of apostolic succession and the laying on of hands by the bishops. Father Dave explains that there are websites that keep track of ordinations tracing back to the 1500s; however, we do not have much information before that. Father Dave points out that the Holy Spirit has been keeping apostolic succession together all these years, and in the Acts of the Apostles when the Sanhedrin wanted to kill Peter and the apostles, Gamaliel proclaims that if Christianity was man-made it would not last, but if it is from God no one will be able to destroy it. Original Air 5-10-16

Dr. Charlie Camosy, professor, author, and friend of the show, joins us to discuss important ethical issues such as abortion, artificial intelligence, and the current case surrounding terminally ill toddler Alfie Evans. Father Dave and Dr. Camosy share a Catholic perspective on the Alfie Evans case, and discuss Pope Francis' role in this situation. Original air 4-19-18

A caller named Katie asks about Jesus' pre-ministry life. Father Dave explains that nobody knows what Jesus did from the ages of 12-29, which is why these are called the hidden years of Jesus. He points out that if we focus on the Jewish culture of that time, it's likely that Jesus lived at home with his parents; and it's also likely that Joseph died before his public ministry, so Jesus, as the only son, would have been taking care of Mary and working to support his mother. Original Air 4-09-18

Dating... it's not what it used to be. Father Dave sits down with Megan Harrington, producer of the new documentary "The Dating Project," and Chris Meehan, who appears in the movie. The film follows five single people as they try to find meaningful romantic relationships in the midst of a hookup culture. Megan and Chris share how this project is necessary to start a conversation about getting back to the basics of dating. Original Air 3-20-18

Father Dave and Team Busted Halo discuss Pope Francis' new apostolic exhortation, "Gaudete et Exsultate” (Rejoice and be glad). Father Dave discusses the pope’s call to holiness and how to live that out in our everyday lives through practices such as such as discernment, mission, and mercy. Original Air 4-10-18

A caller named Drew asks, "How do I avoid impure thoughts while I'm praying?" He explains his mind wanders off during prayer and drifts toward impure thoughts. He doesn't understand what's causing this, and asks if he is doing something wrong. Father Dave suggests including this in his prayer, and asking God to help him with this temptation, instead of pretending it's not happening and pushing it out of his mind. Original Air 3-26-18

Actress, Hollywood producer, and friend of the show Roma Downey discusses her new book, "Box of Butterflies: Discovering the Unexpected Blessings All Around Us." She shares stories that shaped her life, like losing her parents, and how focusing on the blessings in her life gives her hope and a desire to help others. Original Air 3-08-18

A fan named Kelly asks, "What does it mean when someone is referred to as a Doctor of the Church?" Father Dave explains that this is an honorary title given to some saints. He points out that they must be a saint who has contributed significantly to Church doctrine or the understanding of the faith. He highlights the examples of Saint Thomas Aquinas, and Saint Teresa of Avila, both Doctors of the Church. Original Air 10-18-17

Catholic priest and singer Father Rob Galea stops by the show to discuss his new book, "Breakthrough: A Journey from Desperation to Hope." Father Rob shares stories of his troubled childhood during which he was involved with drugs and gangs, and explains how his life turned around when he found a relationship with Christ. Original Air 3-16-18

A caller named Brittany asks if we should bow before receiving Communion. Father Dave explains that the general instruction in the Roman Missal recommends that the faithful should display a sign of reverence prior to receiving the Eucharist, but they leave this act of reverence up to individual diocese or the bishops' conference for specific countries. He points out that the instructions from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops recommends a simple bow of the head. Original Air 2-28-18