Season 4, Episode 2. Archbishop Robert Casey: Faith, Family, and Baseball

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Archbishop Casey will throw out the first pitch before the Reds-Cardinals game on August 30.

Summary

In this fascinating conversation with WE LOVE OUR TEAM's first religious leader as a guest, Cincinnati Archbishop Robert Casey shares insights into his life, from his upbringing in Illinois to his journey into the priesthood and eventual appointment as Archbishop of Cincinnati. He discusses the significance of community in both faith and sports, reflecting on his love for baseball and the Cincinnati Reds. 

Archbishop Casey emphasizes the importance of prayer, the role of the pallium in his leadership, and his goals for the Archdiocese. The conversation highlights the intersection of faith, culture, and community, providing a unique perspective on his mission as a bishop.

Takeaways

• Archbishop Casey was ordained in 1994 and became Archbishop of Cincinnati in 2025.
• He grew up in Alsip, Illinois, in a family with a rich cultural background.
• His journey to the priesthood began in high school after an impactful interview with a pastor.
• He experienced a transition from being a parish priest to a bishop, expanding his community focus.
• Baseball holds a special place in his heart, reflecting on its significance in American culture.
• He enjoys the camaraderie and community spirit found in sports, similar to that in faith.
• Archbishop Casey will throw the first pitch at a Reds game, celebrating Catholic schools.
• He emphasizes the importance of prayer, even for sports victories, while acknowledging God's will.
• The pallium symbolizes his role and responsibility as an archbishop.
• He aims to learn about the culture and community of Cincinnati to better serve the diocese.

Sound Bites

• "I was the fourth of five kids."
• "I began to think about being a priest."
• "Nerves are a good thing."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Archbishop Casey

01:19
Archbishop Casey's Early Life and Family Background

02:59
Journey to the Priesthood

04:35
First Assignments and Early Ministry

07:31
Transitioning from Priest to Bishop

09:11
Baseball and Personal Connections

09:24
Chicago Baseball Rivalries

11:40
The Role of Faith in Sports

17:42
Prayers for Victory and Divine Intervention

20:25
Community and Faith in Sports

21:59
Throwing the First Pitch and Celebrating Catholic Schools

24:02
The Joy of First Mass

27:00
Sports and Faith: A Community Connection

29:33
Understanding the Pallium

31:53
Priorities as Archbishop of Cincinnati

34:45
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Appointments

36:17
Discovering Cincinnati: A New Adventure

37:26
Culinary Delights: Cincinnati vs. Chicago

42:08
Church Festivals: A Cultural Comparison

43:33
Cincinnati's Team Spirit

43:35
Community and Unity in Sports