Ave Spotlight

Episode 188: The Ride of Our Life: Holy Week Reflections

March 30th, 2026  |  29 mins 23 secs

almsgiving, ave maria press, ave spotlight, catholic podcast, fasting, holy week, lent, oscar rivera, prayer

In this Holy Week reflection, Oscar looks back on the Lenten journey—its highs and lows—and considers how God meets us in all of it. As beloved sons and daughters, we can trust that he responds to every effort we make. But how are we called to respond in return?

We’re not made to avoid suffering, but to embrace it with gratitude and grace, trusting that even our hardships have purpose. This week, as we walk more closely with Jesus, we remember that we’re already strapped into the ride of his love. The question is: will we trust him enough to pull the cord and follow where he leads?

Episode 184: Influencers, Algorithms, and the Psalms with Emily Mentock

February 2nd, 2026  |  34 mins 42 secs

2026, ave maria press, ave spotlight, catholic church, catholicism, digital evangelization, easter, lent, oscar rivera, podcast for catholics, praying with the psalms, psalms

Emily Mentock joins Oscar for an honest conversation about faith, influence, and a changing digital era. As the Catholic Church discerns how to navigate influencer culture, we explore what it means to cultivate an authentic online presence rooted in digital mission—not personal branding.

Together, we discuss the importance of resisting the pressure to “perform” as influencers by staying grounded in prayer, humility, and parish life. We also look to King David as a surprising model of influence and reflect on why the Psalms remain one of the Church’s most powerful—and underused—spiritual treasures.

Episode 163: Last Week of Lent: Finish Strong with Oscar Rivera

April 14th, 2025  |  21 mins 2 secs

almsgiving, ave maria press, ave spotlight, fasting, free catholic podcast, how is lent going for you, lent, oscar rivera, podcast for the everyday catholic, prayer

As we enter the final week of Lent, host Oscar Rivera reminds us that it’s not the time to dwell on any shortcomings in our almsgiving, fasting, and prayer. Instead, it’s a moment to refocus, recommit, and finish strong. Whether your Lent has gone exactly as planned or felt a bit off track, these last few days offer a powerful opportunity to embrace the spirit of sacrifice and spiritual growth. In this episode, Oscar shares encouragement and practical wisdom to help you make this final stretch count—so you can prepare your heart for the joy and renewal of Easter.

Episode 86: Take it Easy this Lent with Regina Boyd

March 21st, 2022  |  22 mins 47 secs

ave maria press, ave spotlight, chenele shaw, lent, lenten promises, regina boyd, scrupulosity

Therapist Regina Boyd joins Chenele this week to talk about Lenten promises, scrupulosity, and not being too hard on yourself.