You Can’t Give What You Don’t Have

This monologue podcast features Bishop Robert Barron delivering a homily on the importance of both "walls" and "bridges" in the life of the Church. He uses the biblical example of Nehemiah rebuilding Jerusalem's walls and Ezra restoring the people's faith to illustrate the necessity of maintaining a strong sense of identity ("walls") before effectively engaging with the world ("bridges"). Barron argues against simplistic views that prioritize one over the other, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach. He concludes that true pastoral leadership involves understanding when to emphasize identity and when to focus on outreach, drawing parallels to the post-Vatican II Church's experience. The homily ultimately encourages listeners to consider the delicate balance between preserving core beliefs and actively sharing them with the world.