Rev. Leslie Rumble
Rev. Leslie Rumble, M.S.C. (1892–1975) was an Australian Catholic priest, theologian, and apologist best known for his pioneering work in Catholic radio apologetics and for co-authoring Radio Replies, a widely popular series of books addressing questions about the Catholic faith. A member of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (M.S.C.), Fr. Rumble was ordained in 1924 and dedicated much of his life to defending and explaining Catholicism to a broad audience.
In the 1930s, Fr. Rumble gained fame through his radio program, where he answered listeners’ questions about Catholic doctrine, morals, and practices. This work resulted in Radio Replies, written in collaboration with Fr. Charles Carty, which became a classic of Catholic apologetics. The multi-volume series provided concise, well-reasoned responses to thousands of inquiries, ranging from theological challenges to practical questions about Catholic living.
Fr. Rumble’s efforts were instrumental in promoting a deeper understanding of Catholicism, especially in English-speaking countries, at a time when misconceptions about the Church were widespread. His style was characterized by clarity, charity, and an unwavering commitment to orthodox Catholic teaching. Fr. Rumble’s work continues to inspire those engaged in apologetics and evangelization, showcasing how modern media can be effectively used to spread the truths of the Catholic faith.