Light Reading is a weekly Catholic podcast dedicated to helping you enter more deeply into the inspired Word of God.
Each episode features Bradley Stalder reading the Sunday Mass readings and psalms, followed by a brief, thoughtful reflection designed to help you hear how God is speaking to you today through Sacred Scripture.
Bradley holds an M.A. in Theology & Christian Ministry from Franciscan University of Steubenville and an M.Ed. from the University of Notre Dame.
With more than twelve years of experience in Catholic education, he brings pastoral clarity, theological insight, and a deep love for the Church to every reflection.
Whether you're preparing for Sunday Mass, looking to grow in your prayer life, or wanting a deeper understanding of the Bible, this podcast guides you into the richness of God’s living Word.
Discover how the Holy Spirit continues to speak, encourage, and transform us through Scripture each week. Perfect for:
• Sunday Mass prep
• Daily prayer and devotion
• Catholics wanting accessible Scripture reflections
• Anyone seeking to encounter God through His inspired Word
Subscribe today and let the Scriptures shape your week, strengthen your faith, and draw you closer to Christ.
February 15, 2026- Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Rooting Out Sin
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Lectionary 76): Jesus Calls Us Beyond the Letter of the Law
This episode of Light Reading, a weekly Catholic podcast, proclaims the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time readings (Lectionary 76): Sirach on choosing life by keeping God’s commandments, Psalm 119 on the blessing of following the Lord’s law, 1 Corinthians on God’s hidden wisdom revealed through the Spirit, and Matthew’s Gospel where Jesus fulfills the law and calls disciples to deeper righteousness—reconciliation over anger, purity of heart over lust, fidelity in marriage, and integrity without oaths.
The Bradley reflects on standards from his time at St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland—being formed as “men for others”—to illustrate Jesus’ invitation to go beyond rule-keeping to the root of sin and personal right relationship.
The episode concludes with an invitation to enter Lent focused on purification, rooting out sin, and practical spiritual commitments that help remove obstacles to knowing and seeing God in others, in Scripture, and in the sacraments.
00:00 Welcome to Light Reading + This Week’s Lectionary (6th Sunday in Ordinary Time)
00:27 First Reading (Sirach): Choosing Life, Keeping the Commandments
01:38 Responsorial Psalm 119: “Blessed Are They Who Follow the Law of the Lord”
02:56 Second Reading (1 Corinthians): God’s Hidden Wisdom Revealed by the Spirit
04:26 Gospel Proclamation (Matthew): Jesus Fulfills the Law
08:04 Homily Story: High School Standards vs. Just “Following the Rulebook”
12:30 Jesus Raises the Bar: Anger, Reconciliation, and the Domino Effect of Sin
15:02 Going to the Root: Lust, Integrity, and Letting Your “Yes” Be Yes
16:54 Lent Takeaways: Purification, Practices, and Seeing God with a Pure Heart
6 Feb 2026
February 8, 2026 - Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Light of the World, Saints, and Adoration
Reflecting God's Light: Understanding the Call to Shine in the Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time
In this episode of Light Reading, we delve into the scriptures for the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, exploring the importance of sharing God's light with the world.
We read passages from the Book of Isaiah, Psalm 112, St. Paul's letter to the Corinthians, and the Gospel of Matthew.
Highlighting the significance of saints and their role as visible witnesses to God's love, we discuss how the faithful can follow their example.
The episode also touches on the traditions surrounding All Saints Day and the power of the Hail Mary prayer.
As we approach Lent, listeners are encouraged to spend time in adoration, allowing God's light to shine upon them and inspire their actions.
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:27 First Reading: The Book of Isaiah
01:36 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 112
02:43 Second Reading: First Letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians
03:36 Gospel Acclamation and Reading
04:51 Reflection on Saints and Feast Days
05:46 The Role of Saints in Our Lives
08:42 Honoring Mary, the Greatest of Saints
11:03 Preparing for Lent: Embracing the Light of God
30 Jan 2026
February 1, 2026 - Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time - The Beatitudes
Understanding the Beatitudes: A Deep Dive
In this episode of Light Reading, a weekly Catholic podcast, we explore the readings for the fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time.
The episode starts with a reading from the Book of Zephaniah, urging the faithful to seek justice and humility.
The focus then shifts to Psalm 146, celebrating the Lord's faithfulness and justice for the oppressed.
We also delve into the first letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, highlighting God's preference for the humble and the foolish of the world.
The core of the episode is a detailed discussion of the Beatitudes from the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus introduces a new way of life and spiritual fulfillment through blessings.
The speaker draws parallels between the instructional methods of Jesus and personal experiences as a middle school math teacher, emphasizing the transformative power of the Beatitudes.
The episode concludes with a call to strive for the kingdom of heaven and to appreciate Jesus' teachings and love.
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:27 First Reading: The Book of Zephaniah
01:28 Psalm 146: Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit
02:35 Second Reading: St. Paul's Letter to the Corinthians
03:58 Gospel Reading: The Beatitudes According to Matthew
05:24 Personal Reflection: Teaching Middle School Math
07:48 Connecting the Beatitudes to Everyday Life
18:16 Conclusion: Embracing the Teachings of Jesus
24 Jan 2026
January, 25, 2026 - Third Sunday in Ordinary Time - Calling of the First Disciples Reflection
The Third Sunday in Ordinary Time: Answering Jesus’ Call
In this episode of Light Reading, a weekly Catholic podcast, we delve deeply into the readings for the third Sunday in Ordinary Time from Lectionary 67.
We explore passages from the book of Isaiah, Psalm 27, and the first letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, all focusing on themes of unity, salvation, and divine calling.
The episode also includes an insightful discussion on Jesus' timely invitation to Simon Peter and other apostles to follow him, drawing parallels to how we too are called to follow God's will in our daily lives.
This spiritual reflection encourages us to meditate on the word of God and respond to His call with courage and faith.
Tune in for a blend of scripture, spiritual insights, and practical advice on growing your faith.
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:28 First Reading: Prophet Isaiah
01:38 Psalm 27: The Lord is My Light
02:40 Second Reading: St. Paul's Letter to the Corinthians
04:06 Gospel Reading: According to Matthew
06:02 Personal Story: Growing a YouTube Channel
09:43 Connecting the Gospel to Modern Life
13:22 Conclusion and Weekly Prayer
15 Jan 2026
January 18, 2026 - Second Sunday in Ordinary Time - Spilled Coffee
Finding God's Will: Deepening Your Faith through Scripture
In this weekly episode of Light Reading, a Catholic podcast, we explore the readings for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time.
Delve into a passage from the book of Isaiah, reflect on Psalm 40, and listen to readings from St. Paul's letter to the Corinthians and the Gospel of St. John.
The episode includes a personal story about dealing with life's messes and highlights the significance of Jesus Christ in cleansing our spiritual stains, likened to a deep clean beyond ordinary fixes.
Emphasizing the importance of holiness and being set apart for God, the podcast encourages listeners to say 'yes' to God's will and become His true servants.
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:27 First Reading: The Book of Isaiah
01:23 Psalm 40: Here Am I, Lord
02:21 Second Reading: First Letter to the Corinthians
03:26 Gospel Reading: According to St. John
04:34 Personal Story: Morning Chaos
08:10 Reflection: Messes and Forgiveness
11:34 Conclusion: Embracing Holiness
10 Jan 2026
January 11, 2026 - The Baptism of the Lord - Baptism, Covenant, and New Year Hope
Understanding the Baptism of the Lord and New Year's Resolutions -
Light Reading Podcast
In this episode of Light Reading, we delve into the readings for January 11th, 2026, focusing on the baptism of the Lord.
Beginning with a reading from the book of Isaiah, followed by Psalm 29, a passage from the Acts of the Apostles, and the Gospel according to Matthew, we explore the significance of Jesus' baptism.
We also discuss the cultural phenomenon of New Year's resolutions and the importance of supportive systems for achieving personal goals.
The episode emphasizes the transformative power of baptism and the Holy Spirit, encouraging listeners to reflect on their divine kinship with God.
Happy New Year!
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:24 First Reading: The Book of Isaiah
01:44 Psalm 29: The Lord Will Bless His People with Peace
02:44 Second Reading: Acts of the Apostles
03:56 Gospel Reading: The Baptism of Jesus
05:02 Reflection on New Year's Resolutions
08:11 The Significance of Baptism
13:21 Conclusion and New Year Wishes
30 Dec 2025
January 4, 2026 - The Epiphany of the Lord - Reflections on Gift-Giving Worship
Understanding the Epiphany: Reflections and Gift Giving
In this episode of Light Reading, we delve into the readings for the Feast of the Epiphany of the Lord from Lectionary 20 a.
Join us as we explore passages from the book of the prophet Isaiah, Psalm 72, the letter of St. Paul to the Ephesians, and the Gospel according to Matthew.
We'll discuss the significance of gift-giving traditions, linking them to the Magi's offerings of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to baby Jesus.
Reflect with us on how we can bring our own gifts to Jesus and honor Him in our daily lives.
Many blessings to you this season.
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:08 The Feast of the Epiphany: Isaiah's Prophecy
01:25 Psalm 72: A Song of Universal Adoration
02:41 St. Paul's Letter to the Ephesians
03:35 The Gospel According to Matthew: The Visit of the Magi
05:36 Reflections on Gift Giving and Traditions
07:36 The Significance of the Magi's Gifts
11:34 Concluding Thoughts and Meditations
27 Dec 2025
December 28, 2025 - Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph - Authority, Family, and Obedience in Faith
Exploring the Importance of Parental Authority | Feast of the Holy Family
Join us on this week's episode of Light Reading, a Catholic podcast dedicated to delving deeper into the inspired word of God.
In celebration of the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, the readings emphasize the honor and authority of parents over their children as described in the book of Sirach.
Bradley discusses the relevance of these biblical teachings in modern parenting, reflecting on his own experiences and the challenges of maintaining parental authority.
Through scripture from Sirach, the Psalms, Colossians, and the Gospel of Matthew, discover the vital role of parents in shaping a loving and obedient family environment, guided by the wisdom and love of God.
Merry Christmas and many blessings!
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:18 First Reading: The Book of Sirach
01:35 Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 128
02:34 Second Reading: Letter of St. Paul to the Colossians
04:29 Gospel Reading: According to Matthew
06:03 Reflection: Parental Authority and Obedience
15:42 Conclusion: Meditations on the Holy Family
18 Dec 2025
December 21, 2025 - Fourth Sunday of Advent - Embracing the Holy Spirit
Embracing the Holy Spirit: Reflections on the Fourth Sunday of Advent
In this episode of Light Reading, we delve into the Scripture readings for the fourth Sunday of Advent.
The podcast features a reading from the Prophet Isaiah, Psalm 24, St. Paul's letter to the Romans, and the Holy Gospel according to Matthew.
The host shares a personal story about the birth of his daughter and parallels it with Joseph and Mary's journey, emphasizing faith, openness to God's plan, and the importance of family.
Join us as we reflect on the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ and its significance for our own lives.
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:36 First Reading: The Prophet Isaiah
01:27 Psalm 24: Let the Lord Enter
02:34 Second Reading: Letter of St. Paul to the Romans
04:05 Gospel Reading: Birth of Jesus Christ
05:41 Personal Reflection: Birth of My Daughter
08:53 Connecting Personal Experience to the Nativity
10:25 Counseling on Family and Faith
12:42 Joseph's Righteousness and Obedience
13:42 Conclusion: Embracing the Holy Spirit
8 Dec 2025
December 14, 2025 - Third Sunday of Advent - Gaudete: Advent Joy and Revelation Meditation
Joy and Patience: Reflections on the Third Sunday of Advent | Light Reading Podcast
In this episode of the Light Reading podcast, we delve into the readings for the third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday.
Focusing on the themes of joy and patience, the episode includes readings from the book of Isaiah, the book of James, and the Gospel of Matthew.
Bradley connects these scriptures to the notion of recognizing Jesus's presence as illustrated through the 'Selective Attention Test' video. (Watch video here: https://youtu.be/vJG698U2Mvo?si=5iXpUvwAQHG2sqFo )
The episode encourages listeners to approach Advent with a spirit of joy and patience, highlighting the importance of our attitude towards life's challenges, echoing lessons from Viktor Frankl's 'Man's Search for Meaning.'
Don't miss this uplifting spiritual journey aimed at bringing you closer to the divine word.
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:27 First Reading: The Book of Isaiah
01:53 Psalm 146: A Call for Salvation
02:47 Second Reading: The Book of James
04:00 Gospel Reading: According to Matthew
05:36 The Selective Attention Test
09:04 John the Baptist's Role in Advent
12:25 The Joy of Advent: GauDete Sunday
13:33 Choosing Joy in Life's Challenges 1
5:32 Conclusion and Blessings
1 Dec 2025
December 7, 2025 - Second Sunday of Advent - Preparing for the Prince of Peace
Entering the Advent Season: Reflections on the Second Sunday
In this episode of the Light Reading podcast, we delve into the readings from the Second Sunday of Advent.
The episode explores a passage from the Book of Isaiah, a Psalm, a letter from St. Paul to the Romans, and the Holy Gospel according to Matthew.
Key themes include preparation, repentance, justice, and familial traditions around worship.
The host shares personal anecdotes about family traditions, drawing parallels with the scripture's call to prepare for the coming of the kingdom of heaven.
Join us as we reflect on how to change our hearts and interactions during this Advent season.
00:00 Introduction to Light Reading Podcast
00:27 First Reading: The Prophet Isaiah
02:19 Psalm 72: A Song of Justice and Peace
03:45 Second Reading: St. Paul's Letter to the Romans
05:07 Gospel Reading: John the Baptist's Call to Repentance
07:08 Personal Reflection: Family Traditions and Faith
08:43 Connecting the Readings: Preparation and Repentance
13:06 Conclusion: Advent Prayers and Blessings
23 Nov 2025
November 30, 2025 - First Sunday of Advent - Preparing for the Lord's Coming: A Spiritual Reflection
Preparing for the Lord's Coming: A Spiritual Reflection
This episode explores a reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah, passages from Psalm 122, St. Paul's letter to the Romans, and the gospel according to Matthew.
Through these scriptures, it discusses the importance of spiritual preparedness and vigilance for the coming of the Lord. Using a personal anecdote about neighborhood break-ins and a comparison to the preparation required in football, the speaker underscores the need for daily prayer, love, and forgiveness as we prepare spiritually for our ultimate journey to heaven. Join us in reflecting on how to cultivate spiritual readiness and walk in the light of the Lord.
00:00 Introduction: A Reading from Isaiah
01:06 Psalm 122: Rejoicing in the House of the Lord
02:29 St. Paul's Letter to the Romans: A Call to Awaken
03:28 Gospel of Matthew: Be Prepared for the Son of Man
04:47 Personal Anecdote: Neighborhood Break-ins
06:57 Spiritual Preparation: Lessons from Jesus and St. Paul
10:38 Conclusion: The Importance of Being Prepared
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