Inspired by the Apostolic Exhortation for Catholic men written by Bishop Olmsted of Phoenix, the Knights of Columbus produced a video series which seeks to answer the question of what it means to be a man and how to live as a man in today's world.

INTO THE BREACH FACT SHEET

Inspired by the Apostolic Exhortation for Catholic men written by Bishop Olmsted of Phoenix, the Knights of Columbus has produced a 12-episode video series that seeks to answer the question of what it means to be a man and how to live as a man in today's world. Each episode focuses on a different aspect of authentic Catholic masculinity and features interviews with well-known Catholic commentators, as well as the personal story of a man who has deeply experienced the episode’s topic in his own life.

Each episode runs approximately 12 minutes. The video series is an extension of current Knights of Columbus programming. Reflection guides to accompany the videos will be available in Summer 2020 on kofc.org/intothebreach.

The 12 episodes are:

1. Masculinity The Church is facing a “man crisis.” Men are made for greatness. “Authentic masculinity” means to live for excellence. Mike Phelan explains how he discovered the nature of true masculinity and how to live it.

2. Brotherhood Man was not meant to “go it alone,” but to be in communion with others. It is important to build close friendships with other men of faith. Master Sergeant Sompaul Vorapanich shares lessons on the importance of brotherhood.

3. Leadership Men must become leaders through developing their character. True leadership seeks greatness and brings out greatness in others. Robert Yates discusses his service in the Air Force and highlights the importance of being servant leaders.

4. Fatherhood The presence and involvement of a loving father is critical in the development of a child. True fatherhood models itself on God the Father. Former MLB player Mike Sweeney shares how the faith of a man should shape his role as a father.

5. Family There is a “battle for the very soul of the family.” Men’s service of their families requires sacrifice. Greg and Julie Alexander explain how discovering the true nature of marriage transformed their relationship and their family.

6. Life Human life is sacred. Men have a responsibility to protect society’s most vulnerable. Men’s participation in the pro-life movement is vital. John Morales shares his story of regret, healing and hope as a testimony to the importance of life.

7. Prayer Prayer must be a priority in the life of a man. Eucharistic adoration, reading scripture and saying the rosary are central to prayer. Robert Feeney tells his story of the power of prayer on the battlefield in Vietnam and life in general.

8. Suffering Suffering is a mystery which can bring us closer to God and help us grow in holiness. The answer to suffering is Jesus Christ. Frank Ramirez shares his story of responding to intense suffering by worshiping God.

9. Sacramental Life Christ offers his grace through the sacraments. The Eucharist and Confession need to be central to every man’s life. Jared Zimmerer explores how his experience as a bodybuilder helps him understand aspects of the sacramental life.

10. Spiritual Warfare The life of a believer is a spiritual battle. Men have multiple spiritual weapons in the fight against Satan, and the stakes are high. Don O’Mara recounts his experience with abuse and addiction and finding forgiveness and freedom in Christ.

11. Evangelization All Christians are called to be witnesses of their faith to others. To share the faith a man must know the faith. Ryan Young shares how his Eucharistic-centered camp for teenagers allows for an encounter with Christ.

12. The Cornerstone Christ is the only sure foundation of a man’s life. We are to know, love and serve God, so we can be with him forever. Actor Clarence Gilyard Jr. shares his testimony of straying from God’s plan and how God led him to enter the Catholic Church.

Individuals who appear in the series include: Matt Birk Speaker & Former NFL Player Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers Speaker & Author Jeff Cavins Speaker & Author Matthew James Christoff The New Emangelization Project Mother Agnes Mary Donovan Superior General | Sisters of Life Jason Evert Founder, Chastity Project Matt Fradd Host, Pints with Aquinas Clarence Gilyard Jr. Actor Dr. Tim Gray President, Augustine Institute Dr. Scott Hahn Author & Theologian Fr. Sean Kilcawley Director of the Office of Family Life, Diocese of Lincoln Curtis Martin Founder & CEO, FOCUS Darrell Miller Speaker & Former MLB Player Bishop Thomas Olmsted Diocese of Phoenix Fr. Mike Schmitz Director of the Office of Youth Ministry, Diocese of Duluth Sr. Maris Stella Sisters of Life Mike Sweeney Speaker & Former MLB Player Dr. Paul Thigpen Editor, TAN Books Teresa Tomeo Hostess, Catholic Connection Jared Zimmerer Director, Word on Fire Institute