The boys drink and review Pigweed’s homebrew IPA, then discuss the pope news.
Why does the Catholic Church have a pope, and how did that role evolve into what it is today?
In this episode, we explore the theological roots of the papacy, starting with Jesus’ words: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church.” We dive into the biblical and historical concept of the pope as the keeper of the keys, which is something like a divine prime minister, and the pope’s role as a visible sign of unity and practical necessity in governing a global church.
We also tackle the long and messy history of papal disputes. From the East-West Schism over the filioque to the chaos of the Western Schism—with three men simultaneously claiming to be pope—the road to a stable papacy hasn’t been smooth. Learn how the Church eventually resolved these crises and how the conclave system works today to elect a new pope behind the locked doors of the Sistine Chapel.
Finally, we discuss the election of Pope Leo XIV (formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost), a figure who has sparked controversy and curiosity. Is he a return to traditional norms or a liberal Trojan horse? We break down the arguments from both sides—and examine the deeper tension: how conservatives and liberals relate very differently to the authority of the papacy.
Whether you’re Catholic, curious, or just love church history, this is a candid, informative dive into one of the most enduring—and controversial—offices in the world.
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