Basilians reach into cyberspace

By  Andrew Santos, The Catholic Register
  • December 3, 2007

{mosimage}TORONTO - The Basilian Fathers recently introduced podcasts to their web site.

Using the power of podcasting, the Basilians have expanded their teachings to include listeners from around the world.

The Conversations with Macrina podcast addresses various issues and provides information about an individual’s faith and the life of the Catholic Church. The Basilians currently have about 30 podcasts posted.

“I’ve met many people who want to know about what their faith entails and why, but time and where to begin are always obstacles,” said podcast producer Chris Valka, a Toronto-based Basilian scholastic.

Valka hopes that this series of online talks will make Catholic teachings more accessible.

“Our podcasts are fairly easy to listen and get access to,” he said.

Each podcast runs approximately 15-20 minutes in length on a weekly basis. It begins with Valka, the host, asking a simple question, then various theologians, religious experts, priests and guest speakers weigh in throughout the program.

“People have been starving for information about their faith. This program meets people on their level. Our podcasts provide valuable information for pastors, teachers and R.C.I.A ministries.”

In previous podcasts, Valka touched upon issues like contraception and natural family planning, changes in the liturgy and Catholic schools. Valka has had guests such as Dr. Moira McQueen, director of the Canadian Catholic Bioethics Institute, and Dr. Christian McConnell, a professor at the University of St. Michael’s College.

Conversations with Macrina is available free of charge on the Apple web site and iTunes store. Additional podcasts can be found at www.basilian.org.

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