Bishop Olson discusses conclave, Pope Francis on diocesan podcast

Bishop Michael Olson addresses a question by host Sissel Anderson during the latest episode of "Lights, Catholic, Action!" (NTC/Juan Guajardo)

FORT WORTH — In a special episode of the diocesan podcast, “Lights, Catholic, Action!,” Bishop Michael Olson joined host Sissel Anderson for a wide-ranging conversation which included the best advice he received from Pope Francis; how the conclave is both more and less political than one would expect; and his prayer for the new pope.

With the death of Pope Francis and the transition to a new pope, John Cuccaro, director of communications, scheduled Bishop Olson to explain this important event in modern Church history to the lay faithful of the diocese.

Bishop Olson concluded his podcast episode with advice for the faithful of the Diocese of Fort Worth. “Have gratitude always for our Catholic faith. It’s a grace given by God … Have gratitude for the pope that we’re given. Pray for that pope. It’s an enormous burden, and anything we can do to help him carry that cross is our responsibility,” he said.

The special episode premieres May 6 and can be found on YouTube (@CatholicDioceseofFortWorth) in addition to various podcast apps.

Bishop Olson’s feature is the tenth episode of “Lights, Catholic, Action!,” which launched on March 4 and releases new episodes each Tuesday.

Previous episodes include Father Brett Metzler sharing how a jet ski helped him discern the priesthood and UTA campus minister Jeff Hedglen discussing the unique challenges and spiritual hunger of young adults.

Upcoming episodes include international singer Carolina Imperial, human trafficking expert Dr. Kim Robinson, and seminarian Trent Barton.

“Lights, Catholic, Action!” is a new communications channel for the diocese, in addition to its established methods of disseminating information via the diocesan website, social media platforms, YouTube videos, and the North Texas Catholic print newsmagazine plus its website and social media.