This week on “Connecting the Diocese”, Father Sam Martin interviews Bishop Battersby on the topic of Easter, reflecting on the Paschal Mystery, discipleship, and the Church’s mission to “go and make disciples.” The bishop shares highlights of his first two years as ordinary, explains his coat of arms featuring the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and the Chaste Heart of St. Joseph, and describes how Holy Week liturgies—especially the Chrism Mass and veneration of the cross—move him. He recalls faith influences from praying grandparents, discusses the challenge of living charity, and offers theological reflections on suffering, atonement, and resurrection hope.
01:14 Bishop Arrives in La Crosse
03:24 Easter and Cathedral Symbols
04:37 Three Hearts Coat of Arms
09:17 Holy Week as Bishop
14:02 Faith from Family Roots
17:23 White Castle Charity Lesson
20:58 Cross and Resurrection Explained
25:02 Hope in Suffering and Atonement
27:42 Easter Humor and Book Picks
31:44 Tolkien and Eucatastrophe
32:55 OCIA and Conversion Surge
33:43 Church as Beacon
35:32 Favorite Saints
39:31 Confirmation Trail Graces
42:28 Easter Reset New Episode
43:27 Paschal Mystery Readings
44:13 Mary Magdalene Witness
46:19 Easter Sequence Glory
48:06 Les Mis Easter Shock
50:36 Mercy and Conversion Story
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