Episode 376: Oprah, Larry King & Jimmy Carter Knew This Kid's Name. You Should Too: Mattie Stepanek

Fr. Edward Looney welcomes Kathy Dempsey to discuss the remarkable life and legacy of Mattie Stepanek, a young poet, peace ambassador, and inspirational figure whose life touched millions. Though Mattie died at just fourteen years old, his message of hope, peace, and love captured the attention of some of the most influential people in America, including Oprah Winfrey, Larry King, and Jimmy Carter.

Fr. Edward recalls being aware of Mattie Stepanek's story as a young person and discusses why Mattie's witness continues to resonate with him today.

In this conversation, Kathy explains:
Who Mattie Stepanek was and why his story captivated the nation.
What Mattie meant by a "Heartsong" and how that idea continues to inspire people today.
His extraordinary gift for poetry and the hundreds of poems he left behind.
How he developed a friendship with President Jimmy Carter and became a young ambassador for peace.
How Mattie spoke about living with disability while encouraging others to work for peace and understanding.
How Kathy Dempsey became involved in preserving and promoting Mattie's legacy.
Why Mattie's life resonates with young people, families, and the Church today.
The many ways audiences respond when they encounter Mattie's story.
The role of a Catholic priest, Fr. Dixon, who encouraged Mattie's mother to preserve his writings and suggested that the Church should someday examine Mattie's life for a possible cause for sainthood.
How Mattie is remembered through events and commemorations throughout the year, especially around the anniversary of his death on June 22.

Join us as we explore the life of a remarkable young man whose words, faith, courage, and vision for peace continue to inspire people around the world more than two decades after his death.

Learn more at http://mattiematters.org