Ep 151 - Forging Men of Faith: Harmel Academy’s Mission to Unite Work, Leadership, and Catholic Identity

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Podcast Episode Summary
Work is more than a job—it’s a vocation. In this episode of The Manly Catholic, we take a deep dive into the dignity and spirituality of work with Dave Phelps, President of Harmel Academy of the Trades. From the integration of faith and labor to building a community of skilled Catholic men, this episode challenges the narrative that manual labor is a second-tier pursuit. Learn how Harmel is redefining education, preparing men for meaningful work that glorifies God and strengthens families.

Discover actionable insights on how to align your daily labor with your spiritual calling. Whether you're in the trades, management, or searching for purpose in your work, this episode will inspire and equip you to find meaning and sanctity in every task. Dave’s powerful conversion story and reflections on redemptive suffering remind us all of the transformative power of faith and perseverance. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation that just might change the way you see your work—and your role in the world!

Listen now and start taking ownership of your God-given vocation!

5 Key Takeaways for Men

1. Work as a Spiritual Calling: Your daily labor, whether in the trades or elsewhere, can be a profound act of worship when offered to God. Embrace your work as a means of sanctification.
2. Redemptive Suffering: As Dave shared, "Christ did not come to take away suffering but to make it salvific." See your struggles as opportunities for grace and growth.
3. Fatherhood in Leadership: Leadership, whether in business or at home, is an extension of your fatherhood. Care for others as a spiritual and practical responsibility.
4. The Dignity of Manual Labor: Manual work is not a lesser vocation but a noble calling that reflects God's creativity and order.
5. Build Community: True Catholic work integrates faith, family, and community. Find ways to bring all aspects of life into alignment with your spiritual purpose.

3 Memorable Quotes from the Episode

1. "Christ did not come to take suffering away; He came to make it salvific."
2. "There is a spirituality of work that connects what we do with our hands to what God has called us to be."
3. "The most powerful leadership is fatherhood—guiding, sacrificing, and loving for the good of others."

Listen to the full episode for more insight and inspiration!

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