Christendom College President George A. Harne, Ph.D., has released a new episode of the Christendom Conversations podcast featuring a thoughtful discussion with theology professor Dr. Owen Vyner. Together, they explore the importance of family and community life, the influence of Pope St. John Paul II, and practical ways families can deepen their faith.
“When I talk to a lot of married couples, the way that they sort of schematize their relationship with God, with each other, with their children, is God comes first, then my spouse, and then my children, and they sort of put these relationships into a hierarchy. The big problem with that is it almost becomes a competitive relationship,” says Vyner. “My advice is that you have to turn this upside down and make God the foundation of your love for your spouse and then make the love of your spouse the foundation of your love for your children. I think that’s fundamental.”
During the conversation, Vyner also reflects on his personal faith journey, the role of the spiritual life in marriage, and the importance of communion in education. He emphasizes the need for theology to be taught as a living and unified discipline, making for a wide-ranging and engaging discussion.
Vyner earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Western Australia, a master’s degree in theology and a doctorate from the John Paul II Institute in Melbourne, and a licentiate in sacred theology from the Liturgical Institute in Mundelein, Illinois. He specializes in liturgical and sacramental theology — particularly the sacrament of penance — as well as theological anthropology. His work has appeared in Antiphon, Homiletic and Pastoral Review, and Anthropotes.
This marks the twelfth episode of Christendom Conversations, following December’s episode with Tolkien expert Dr. Daniel Spiotta, which dove into storytelling—especially through Tolkien’s works—and how it can significantly influence personal and intellectual growth.
Christendom Conversations is part of Christendom College’s expanding podcast network, which offers listeners and viewers rich engagement with the Catholic intellectual tradition. Through in-depth interviews with Catholic scholars and cultural leaders, the podcast explores timeless questions and enduring truths. New episodes are released monthly.
Watch the latest episode below:
