Open Seat: A Holy Family Podcast
Welcome to Open Seat, the podcast where we create a space for authentic conversations about faith—unfiltered and unapologetic. With each episode, we invite guests from all walks of life to share their personal journeys, struggles, and revelations moments of doubt, discovery, and everything in between. Here, we believe that every story matters, and in the open seat, there’s room for honesty, vulnerability, and community. Whether you’re questioning, seeking, or steadfast in your beliefs, you’ll find something relatable in these heartfelt discussions. So grab your seat, get comfortable, and let’s dive in to today’s story here - at the Open Seat.
Episodes
In this powerful episode of Open Seat, we welcome Rick Cox, a parishioner whose journey to the Catholic faith is marked by resilience, grace, and an unshakable desire for God.
Rick shares how a cancer diagnosis unexpectedly led him to church for the first time—not out of obligation, but through a simple act of friendship. What began as accompaniment soon became a calling. With no religious upbringing and no intention o...
In this episode of Open Seat, we welcome Bill Fetzer, a lifelong parishioner, husband, father, grandfather, and neighbor whose story is rooted in faith, hard work, and treating others with dignity. From growing up in Adrian and playing baseball as a young man, to building a career through perseverance and integrity, Bill shares lessons learned through decades of work, family life, and service to the Church.
B...
The heat is definitely turned up in this episode of the Hot Seat as we welcome back Father Michael Newman, OSFS, for an honest, thoughtful, and wide-ranging conversation on questions you submitted, and quite possible some of our most challenging questions yet!
Topics include:
•How to respond to claims that the Church excludes people, especially those who are LGBTQ+
• Why can't there be women p...
In this special episode of Open Seat, we welcome Rocio Vazquez from the Guadalupe Society for a conversation on the beauty, history, and living traditions of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Advent season at our Parish. Rocio shares the meaning behind the Novena, Mañanitas, the Our Lady of Guadalupe Feast Day, and other Hispanic cultural practices that prepare our hearts for Jesus’ birth, including Las Posadas, gift givi...
In this heartfelt episode of Open Seat, we welcome Sister Xiomara Méndez Hernández, OP — a proud “Double Dominican,” born in the Dominican Republic and now an Adrian Dominican Sister. Her story is one of faith, courage, and hope that transcends borders.
From fashion designer in Santo Domingo to hospital chaplain in Chicago and now Executive Director of the Dominican Sisters Conference, Sister Xiomara shares her remarka...
In this episode of Open Seat, Deacon Jonathan Dick, OSFS, shares his journey with the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, discussing his path to priesthood, the significance of Salesian spirituality, and the challenges and joys encountered in his formation. Jonathan reflects on his evolving faith, the importance of being present, offering mercy, and the profound connections built through genuine friendships. Join us for ...
Fr. Michael Newman, OSFS, is back in the Hot Seat to answer your questions about faith, life, and everything in between. We dive into topics like leaving Mass early, a deep dive into Mary Magdalene and we also talk about walking with LGBTQ+ individuals in faith, why priests are called “Father,” and how to navigate the gray areas of Christian life. With humor, stories, and real-life wisdom, this episode is a reminder t...
We can hardly believe it — we've made it through the first Season of the Open Seat podcast.
In this special anniversary episode, our host Katie Love and Producer, Maria, look back on this past year of people telling their stories of faith filled with struggles, laughter and the work of the Holy Spirit. From how the Open Seat came to be to surprises, challenges, and blessings along the way, we’re taking time to c...
In this episode of Open Seat, we sit down with Angie Heath, Mayor of Adrian, to hear her remarkable story of faith and service. Raised in the Quaker tradition, Angie shares how her path eventually led her to the Catholic Church, where she discovered grace, mercy, and a true sense of home. From her roles in education and community leader to her role as mayor, Angie reflects on the full circle moments that shaped her l...
In this episode of Open Seat, Dale LeVeck, shares his remarkable journey from Quaker upbringing to finding a home in the Catholic Church. What began as mistrust and walking away from faith eventually turned into a powerful encounter with Christ—sparked by a simple online search and a tug at his heart across the street from St. Mary Campus, Dale reflects on his promise to his grandmother, the joy of OCIA (Order of Chri...
In this episode of Open Seat, we sit down with Sister Rosemary, an Adrian Dominican Sister whose life of faith has been marked by joyful service, compassionate pastoral care, and decades of leadership. From her early days as a teacher to her years as a hospital chaplain and congregational leader, Sister Rosemary reflects on the moments that shaped her vocation, the joy of community life, and what it means to “preach w...
In this heartfelt episode of Open Seat, we sit down with Sue Clegg — a retired nurse, lifelong caregiver, and woman of deep faith. Sue shares her journey from fixing bodies to tending souls, offering a raw and beautiful reflection on how her calling has evolved from the hospital floor to quiet visits with the homebound and lonely.
Through laughter, wisdom, and real talk about faith, family, and purpose, Sue reminds us ...
In this episode of Open Seat, we welcome Anita Lanczki who shares her powerful testament of faith and compassion for others. Anita opens up about her career as a nurse and active roles in parish ministry, to include OCIA. As a Registered Nurse and a women of faith, she shares how she has navigated life's joys and sorrows, trusting in God. Her story is one of healing, hope and service to others - both in body and...
In this episode of 'Open Seat,' we delve into the inspiring journey of Sister Katherine Frazier, O.P., an Adrian Dominican Sister. Sr. Katherine shares her story from growing up on a hog farm in Indiana to her eventual calling to religious life. We discuss her roles in ministry and leadership within the Dominican community and helps us with some practical steps for discernment in our lives. Join us for an au...
In this episode of Open Seat, we welcome Victor Solis, a passionate musician and dedicated member of his parish community. Victor shares his journey of faith, his involvement in church choirs, and his many years of ministry work, including delivering the Eucharist to shut-ins. He also details the pivotal role of music in his life, his family's influence, and his commitment to helping others find their own paths i...
Fr. Michael Newman, OSFS, is back for a second round of questions that our listeners have submitted:
- If we have a falling out with a loved one; how can we heal and forgive if the other person doesn't communicate with us?
- Mass is getting crowded and I've been going to another church because of it. Are there plans to add another Mass?
- Are we supposed to stand or kneel during and after communion and whe...
In the Open Seat today is Lupita Jimenez, a High School student who shares her journey of faith amidst life's challenges and criticisms. Lupita talks about her involvement in church, her family's struggles with illness, and her own emotional experiences. She also tells us how she maintains her faith with resilience, hope, and the Holy Spirit.
In this episode of Open Seat, Markos Diaz shares his heartfelt journey back to the Catholic Church, highlighting the transformative power of the sacrament of reconciliation. Coming back to the Catholic faith, Markos found healing, peace and a renewed relationship with God, eager to share it with others. His story offers practical insights and encouragement for anyone seeking to deepen or rediscover their faith.
In this episode of 'The Open Seat,' Katie Francies shares her inspiring journey of faith, community, and resilience. She speaks about the loss of her daughter, her husband's battle with Alzheimer's, and how her faith and community have been pillars of strength. Katie also touches on the importance of community within the Catholic Church, her role in welcoming new parishioners, and her love for natu...
This week in the Open Seat, we sit down with Gabi Cabrera to talk about his experience as a young adult in the faith. Gabi, a college student and lifelong member of the Holy Family Parish, shares his experiences growing up in a faith-driven family, the profound impact his faith has made during challenging times, and how he's had to lean on God's perfect timing through life's ups and downs. Gabi opens up...
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