The Sacramentalists

The Sacramentalists is a podcast where the ancient Christian faith is brought to bear on issues prevalent in modern culture. Join us for in-depth discussions on how theology intersects with our daily lives.

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August 17 · 1 hr 4 min
Spiritual Warfare
In a culture saturated with sensationalized media, modern Christians often view spiritual warfare through the lens of pop-culture novels and residual "Satanic Panic" paranoia. We treat the cosmos like a high-stakes thriller where a single accidental misstep can trap us in the demonic. In this episode, Frs. Hayden Butler and Wesley Walker provide a pastoral, traditional course correction. Moving past the "main character syndrome" that blames every minor physical ailment or broken spotlight on the devil, the hosts recover a robust, liturgical framework for spiritual engagement. True spiritual warfare is not a dramatic, macho crusade; it is found in the quiet, integrated disciplines of the ancient Church. By recovering a proper Christian anthropology—body, soul, and spirit—and anchoring ourselves in the ordinary proficiency of the sacraments, we inhabit Christ’s definitive victory. Discover why the fullness of the baptized life, the Daily Office, and regular confession remain the most potent defenses against the powers of darkness. Please consider joining the Communion of Patreon Saints to support our work in perpetuating the Anglo-Catholic faith!
August 11 · 39 min
We're So Back!
After a year away, The Sacramentalists are back. Frs. Wesley Walker, Creighton McElveen, and Hayden Butler relaunch the show — reintroducing themselves, explaining what pulled them away from recording, and digging into what actually defines the Anglo-Catholic way: consensus Catholicism, the priest-theologian model, and what Fr. Hayden calls the tradition's "shireliness" — a deep rootedness in small, prayer-formed parish community. Honest, funny, and theologically substantive — the perfect entry point whether you're new to the show or coming back with them. Questions or topic ideas? Email thesacramentalists@gmail.com. Join the Communion of Patreon Saints for $5/month.
Jun 9, 2025 · 52 min
Farewell Fr. Wesley (for the most part) ft. Myles Hixson
In this bittersweet episode of The Sacramentalists, we say (mostly) farewell to our co-host, Fr. Wesley. As he steps back from regular podcasting to focus on doctoral studies, parish life, and family, we reflect on the journey of the show, memorable episodes, and what it’s meant to pursue beauty, truth, and sacramentality together.Joining us is the other co-founder of the pod, Myles Hixson, who helps us send Fr. Wesley off with good humor, deep gratitude, and a few theological tangents.
Apr 28, 2025 · 49 min
Going Beyond the Salvation Wars with Dr. Matthew Bates
In this episode of The Sacramentalists, Frs. Creighton and Wesley welcome New Testament scholar Dr. Matthew Bates to discuss his provocative new book, Beyond the Salvation Wars: A New Vision of the Christian Life.Bates argues that many of our debates about salvation—whether framed in terms of “faith alone” or “works righteousness”—have become theological dead ends. In their place, he offers a fresh and deeply biblical model centered on allegiance to Jesus as King, which he contends better captures the shape of the gospel and the fullness of the Christian life.We explore the implications of his proposal for sacraments, church unity, and discipleship, as well as the strong reactions it’s provoked from Reformed critics. Does allegiance theology open the door to a more sacramental faith? How does it help us move beyond stale binaries and recover a truly catholic vision of salvation?We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Mar 18, 2025 · 1 hr 14 min
The Journey of the Mind to God by Bonaventure (A Crossover Episode with The Classical Mind)
In this special crossover episode of The Sacramentalists Podcast and The Classical Mind Podcast, we dive deep into St. Bonaventure’s The Journey of the Mind to God—a spiritual and philosophical masterpiece that maps the soul’s ascent to divine union. Together, we explore Bonaventure’s vision of contemplation, the role of intellect and love in knowing God, and the ways in which his thought is deeply sacramental, drawing from both Scripture and the broader Catholic tradition.Join us as we discuss the structure of Bonaventure’s journey, the influence of St. Augustine and Pseudo-Dionysius, and how this medieval classic speaks to modern Christians seeking a deeper, more mystical encounter with God. Whether you're new to Bonaventure or a longtime admirer, this episode will challenge and inspire you to see creation, reason, and revelation as pathways to divine illumination.
Mar 10, 2025 · 1 hr 12 min
Should Christians Read Plato? And Other Questions with Dr. John Mark Reynolds
Should Christians read Plato? How does a Rule of Life help us learn? Can AI replace classical education? We delve into these and other questions with Dr. John Mark Reynolds. Dr. Reynolds is the President of the Saint Constantine School and author of many books, including When Athens Met Jerusalem: An Introduction to Classical and Christian Thought. We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Feb 24, 2025 · 1 hr 24 min
Poems for Lent
Lent is coming soon! On this episode, we help you get prepared for this season of penance and fasting by discussing three great Anglican poems: "The Altar" by George Herbert, "Good Friday, 1613. Riding Westward" by John Donne, and "Love (III)" by George Herbert. We pray that you will find these poems as beautiful as we do and that they will stir up your devotion so that you can have a great Lenten observance. You can find the poems here:-"The Altar"-"Good Friday, 1613. Riding Westward"-"Love (III)"We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Feb 10, 2025 · 52 min
The Littlest Acolyte with Fr. Paul Sterne
Those who have followed the podcast for a while know that we love to support those who make solid catechetical and didactic material for kids! In this episode, Fr. Creighton and Fr. Wesley sit down with Fr. Paul Sterne, the chaplain at St. Theodore's Anglican Chapel and the C.S. Lewis Student Center at the University of South Carolina, to discuss his book(s) The Littlest Acolyte Presents the The Liturgy Trilogy. Listeners, your two assignments are to buy one copy of the book for a child in your family and get another one for your parish library! You can buy Fr. Sterne's book here: https://theparishpress.com/products/the-littlest-acolyte-presents-the-liturgy-trilogyWe would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Feb 3, 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
Masculinity, Femininity, and the Church
If you look at our culture, it doesn't take long to realize we have a problem understanding gender. On the one side, there are nominalists who deny the existence of gender except as a social construction used to control people. The opposite side is gender essentialism that forces everything into overly narrow boxes. It should be clear that neither of these extremes reflects the truth about how God created human gender. But how can the Church understand and communicate biblical and theological truth about this issue? Resources mentioned in the episode: -The influencer mentioned is @aja_cortes. -The New York Post article: "Young men are converting to Orthodox Christianity in droves" by Rikki Schlott -Fr. Creighton's article: "The Marian Character of the Christian Life" We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Jan 28, 2025 · 1 hr 17 min
Anglican Spirituality with Fr. Greg Peters
In this episode of The Sacramentalists Podcast, Frs. Creighton and Hayden welcome Fr. Greg Peters, professor of medieval and spiritual theology in the Torrey Honors College at Biola University and the Servants of Christ Research Professor of Monastic Studies and Ascetical Theology at Nashotah House Theological Seminary, to discuss his new book, Anglican Spirituality: An Introduction. Fr. Peters offers a rich exploration of how Anglican Christians can embrace a vibrant spiritual life centered on the threefold rule of Daily Office, Holy Eucharist, and Private Devotion. We delve into how Anglican spirituality is deeply rooted in the Book of Common Prayer and Holy Scripture, emphasizing how the Daily Office forms disciples through the Word of God, the Holy Eucharist transforms the inner self through divine grace, and personal devotions prepare hearts for deeper communion with God. Fr. Peters also shares insights into how this spiritual vision equips the Church for mission, moving beyond individualistic practices to a shared journey of faith. Whether you’re new to Anglicanism or a seasoned disciple, this conversation offers practical and theological guidance for cultivating a spiritual life that glorifies God and strengthens the Church. We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Dec 18, 2024 · 1 hr 43 min
Q&A
Join us as we close out our Fall 2024 Season with a Live Q&A! We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Nov 19, 2024 · 1 hr 22 min
After Stoicism with Boethius and Dr. Thomas Ward
Join Fr. Creighton, Fr. Hayden, and Fr. Wesley as they delve into the wisdom of Boethius with special guest Dr. Thomas Ward, associate professor of philosophy at Baylor University and author of the new book, After Stoicism: Last Words of the Last Roman Philosopher. Boethius, a Roman senator and philosopher unjustly imprisoned in the 6th century, penned The Consolation of Philosophy while awaiting execution. This profound work explores themes of fate, free will, good and evil, and the nature of happiness. Dr. Ward's book serves as an accessible and engaging guide to this timeless classic, helping modern readers unlock its enduring relevance. In this episode, you'll hear: Insights into the life and times of Boethius and the historical context of The Consolation of Philosophy. A breakdown of the key philosophical arguments and ideas presented in the book. Dr. Ward's unique perspective on how Boethius' work can speak to the anxieties and challenges of contemporary life. Reflections on the intersection of philosophy and Christian faith in Boethius' thought. A lively discussion on the enduring power of The Consolation of Philosophy to offer solace and wisdom in times of adversity. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern life, offering listeners a deeper understanding of Boethius' masterpiece and its enduring relevance for today. We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Nov 11, 2024 · 1 hr 11 min
Letters to a Future Saint with Dr. Brad East
In this episode, Fr. Wesley sits down with Dr. Brad East, associate professor of theology, for a captivating conversation about his new book "Letters to a Future Saint: Foundations of Faith for the Spiritually Hungry." Discover how this book offers a roadmap for those seeking a deeper connection with God and a more meaningful spiritual life. We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Nov 5, 2024 · 1 hr 8 min
Clergy and Politics with Abp. Mark Haverland
In this episode of The Sacramentalists Podcast, we’re joined by Archbishop Mark Haverland of the Anglican Catholic Church to discuss the complex relationship between clergy and politics. We explore the distinction of offices and the clergy's responsibility to be pastors instead of politicians. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on faith, leadership, and the intersection of religion and politics. If you'd like to read more about Abp. Haverland's thoughts on clergy and politics, check out his blog posts: -Clergy and Politics: Revised and Reposted (https://anglicancatholicliturgyandtheology.wordpress.com/2022/11/24/the-clergy-and-politics-revised-and-reposted/) -Politics and Church Growth (https://anglicancatholicliturgyandtheology.wordpress.com/2020/10/26/politics-and-church-growth/) We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Oct 29, 2024 · 1 hr 21 min
Is Concupiscence Sin?
In this episode of The Sacramentalists Podcast, we explore why concupiscence is not considered sin from an Anglo-Catholic perspective. Join us as we define concupiscence and sin, examine scriptural distinctions between inclination and willful sin, and delve into teachings from Church Fathers like St. Augustine and theologians like St. Thomas Aquinas. We discuss how concupiscence, though a remnant of original sin, is an involuntary inclination rather than a conscious act against God’s will. This episode brings clarity to a nuanced theological topic and highlights how grace and sacraments aid in our struggle with human inclinations. Perfect for anyone interested in understanding the Anglo-Catholic approach to human nature, original sin, and moral theology! We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Oct 7, 2024 · 1 hr 1 min
The St. Michael's Conference SW with Fr. Joseph Francis and Allison Reimschussel
Discover the transformative St. Michael's Conference Southwest! On this episode, Frs. Creighton, Hayden, and Wesley chat with Fr. Joseph Francis and Allison Reimschussel, who share their profound vision for this powerful conference. Fr. Francis and Allison will shed light on the conference's key theme, liturgical and non-liturgical activities, and impactful moments. If you would like to learn more about the St. Michael's Conference SW, check out their website here: https://stmichaelsw.org. We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Sep 30, 2024 · 1 hr 29 min
Duns Scotus with Dr. Thomas Ward
Join the Sacramentalists podcast as we delve into the fascinating world of Duns Scotus with renowned scholar Dr.Thomas Ward. In this episode, we explore Ward's insightful book "Ordered by Love," uncovering the profound implications of Scotus's theology for our understanding of God's love, creation, and the Sacraments. Discover the beauty and relevance of medieval thought for the modern Christian journey. We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Sep 23, 2024 · 30 min
Our Favorite Titles for the Blessed Virgin Mary with Bishop Chandler Holder Jones
The Blessed Virgin Mary is the most important human person to ever live. Given her prominent role in the Christian faith, there has been a proliferation of titles for her that reflect various aspects of the Gospel story. Join us today as we sit down with Bp. Chandler Holder Jones, the Presiding Bishop of the Anglican Province of America, as we draft our favorite titles for the Mother of God! We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Sep 16, 2024 · 50 min
Paul and Human Flourishing with Dr. Joshua Jipp
On today's episode, Fr. Wesley sits down with Dr. Joshua Jipp to discuss his book Pauline Theology as a Way of Life: A Vision of Human Flourishing in Christ. Dr. Jipp is the Director of the Henry Center for Theological Understanding and Professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. In this insightful discussion, they explore how the Apostle Paul's teachings offer a compelling vision for human flourishing in Christ especially in light of conversation with ancient philosophy and modern positive psychology, revealing surprising parallels and unique insights. We would love to hear from you! Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our Communion of Patreon Saints for only $5 a month.
Sep 9, 2024 · 1 hr 23 min
The Papacy and Its Recent Developments with Bishop Chandler Holder Jones
On the first episode of the *fifth* season of the Sacramentalists Podcast, Frs. Creighton and Wesley discuss recent developments in the Roman Catholic understanding of the papacy in light of the new study document, “The Bishop of Rome: Primacy and Synodality in Ecumenical Dialogue and Responses to the Encyclical Ut Unum Sint". Bp. Chandler Jones is the Presiding Bishop of the Anglican Province of America and blogs at ⁠⁠Philorthodox⁠⁠. Send us your feedback and questions to thesacramentalists@gmail.com or reach out to us on Twitter @sacramentalists. Be sure to join our ⁠Communion of Patreon Saints⁠ for only $5 a month.

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