S1·E13 Andrew Sullivan, Maria Shriver, Jim Gaffigan, Archbishop Thomas Wenski, YMCA Jerusalem Youth Chorus, the Choir of St. Jean Baptiste

Episode recap

The thirteenth episode of the first season of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert centered on a discussion of Pope Francis’s recent visit to the United States and broader themes within Catholicism. The conversation was hosted by Colbert and included four guests: comedian Jim Gaffigan, journalist Maria Shriver, writer Andrew Sullivan, and Archbishop Thomas Wenski. Throughout the segment the participants examined the significance of the papal trip, its reception among American Catholics, and the ways in which the Pope’s messages intersected with contemporary social and religious concerns. Archbishop Wenski contributed a clerical perspective, while the other guests offered personal reflections and cultural commentary.

Colbert guided the dialogue with his characteristic blend of humor and inquiry, prompting each guest to share observations about the Pope’s itinerary, the public’s response, and the role of the Catholic Church in modern American life. The discussion moved between specific moments of the papal visit and more general considerations of faith, community outreach, and the challenges facing religious institutions today. The guests’ varied backgrounds allowed the conversation to touch on both the spiritual dimensions of the Pope’s message and its resonance within popular culture.

Following the interview, the show presented a musical interlude that highlighted two vocal ensembles: the YMCA Jerusalem Youth Chorus and the Choir of St. Jean Baptiste. Together they performed a rendition of the Hoyt Axton/Three Dog Night song “Joy to the World.” The performance combined the youthful energy of the Jerusalem chorus with the traditional choral sound of St. Jean Baptiste, delivering a celebratory interpretation that echoed the episode’s theme of shared joy and communal celebration.

The episode concluded with Colbert thanking the guests and musical groups, underscoring the relevance of the Pope’s visit to a diverse audience and the unifying power of music. By weaving together a topical conversation about Catholic leadership with a spirited choral rendition, the program offered viewers both insight into contemporary religious discourse and an uplifting musical moment.