Ad Jesum per Mariam: Recent Episodes
Ad Jesum per Mariam
Preparing the Heart to Receive God’s Word The Homily reflects on Jesus’ explanation of the Parable of the Sower, . . .. . . drawing attention to the different places where the seed falls: the path, rocky ground, thorns, and fertile soil. While a careful farmer would sow only on good soil, God generously scatters His grace upon everyone without discrimination. This reveals God’s boundless love and mercy, inviting believers to imitate His generosity rather than being selective in whom they love or serve. The preacher emphasizes that hearing God’s Word is not enough; it must be understood, welcomed with humility, and allowed to take deep root. Echoing the words of St. Jerome, “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ,” he encourages continual engagement with Scripture, reminding listeners that God’s Word is “living and active,” always revealing new insights regardless of how many times it has been heard.The Homily further explains that shallow enthusiasm cannot sustain faith when trials arise, nor can faith flourish when worldly anxieties and the pursuit of riches choke God’s Word. Lasting spiritual growth requires prayer, participation in the faith community, devotion to the Rosary, Eucharistic Adoration, and perseverance through suffering. Those who cultivate fertile hearts bear the fruits of patience, trust, and love. The preacher concludes by presenting St. Charbel as a model disciple whose humility, deep prayer life, and profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary enabled him to receive God’s Word, nurture it faithfully, and bear abundant spiritual fruit. We are likewise called not merely to hear the Gospel but to live it so that their lives become a witness to Christ.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Preparing the Heart to Receive God’s Word------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Parable of the Sower: Dutch Painter: Pieter Bruegel the Elder: 1557A Sower went out to sow. The painting depicts a farmer scattering seed across a field. On the left, thorny bushes threaten to overtake the grain. Nearby, rocky ground offers quick growth but little endurance. To the right, further down the hill, the seed falls on fertile soil.Across the river, a crowd gathers to hear the teachings of Jesus. The painting was inspired by a trip to the mountains the artist took just before creating this piece.------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel: Matthew 13:18-23First Reading: Jeremiah 3:14-17
The Habit of Holy Living This Homily reflects on the Gospel’s command, “Do not be afraid,” . . .. . . through the life of St. Benedict, whose fear was not of persecution but of allowing the moral decay of the world to corrupt his soul. Leaving behind the comforts and temptations of Rome, Benedict sought solitude, prayer, study, and honest work, forming what the Church calls the “habit of holy living.” His life demonstrates that holiness is not usually built through dramatic moments but through the quiet, faithful rhythm of daily prayer, worship, and perseverance. His Rule became the foundation for monasteries that not only strengthened the Church spiritually but also preserved education, culture, and civilization throughout Europe during times of great instability. The message is that steadfast faithfulness, practiced consistently over years, has the power to transform both individuals and society.The Homily then turns to the prophet Isaiah’s vision of God’s overwhelming holiness, drawing a profound connection to the Eucharist. Isaiah’s fear arose from recognizing his own sinfulness before the holiness of God, yet he was purified when a burning coal touched his lips. This Old Testament image foreshadows the Eucharist, where Christ Himself becomes the true “burning ember” from God’s altar, purifying those who receive Him with faith. We are reminded that regular participation in Mass is not merely an obligation but a gift through which Christ continually cleanses, strengthens, and renews His people. Just as Benedict’s steadfast habits changed history, the simple but faithful habit of gathering Sunday after Sunday allows God to gradually transform hearts, families, and ultimately the world.-----------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkSaint Benedict Writing the Rules: German Painter: Herman Nigg: 1926
The Declaration: An Ideal Worth LivingThe Homily reflects on the 250th anniversary . . .. . . of the Declaration of Independence alongside the celebration of a wedding anniversary, drawing a profound connection between freedom and faithful commitment. The Homily argues that true freedom is not found in independence alone but in choosing to belong . . . to God, to one another, and to the common good. The Declaration of Independence is presented not as the achievement of liberty but as its foundational vision, proclaiming that every person is created equal by God and endowed with the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Throughout American history, the nation’s greatness has not consisted in perfectly living these ideals but in continually striving toward them despite their difficulty.The Homily then turns to Christ’s teaching on the Last Judgment (the sheep and the goats), emphasizing that Jesus speaks not only to individuals but to nations. A nation’s greatness is measured by how it cares for the hungry, thirsty, stranger, sick, and imprisoned. The ideals of the Declaration find their fullest meaning when illuminated by the Gospel, reminding believers that authentic citizenship begins with fidelity to God. Drawing upon the wisdom of G.K. Chesterton and Pope Leo XIII, the Homily concludes that Catholics become their nation’s best citizens precisely because their first loyalty is to Christ. Just as the Declaration continues to call every generation to realize its promises, so too the Gospel continually calls every nation and every person to transform noble ideals into faithful action.-------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkDeclaration of Independence: American Painter: John Trumbull: 1819
Praying with the Heart: Lessons from the Our Father The Homily centers on three important lessons found within the Lord’s Prayer.First, when Christians pray “Our Father,” they acknowledge a profound relationship with God. God is not distant or indifferent but a loving Father who knows His children, cares about their struggles, and desires to accompany them through every aspect of life. The Homily recounts a conversation with a child who loved the Lord’s Prayer because it allowed him to call God “Father,” highlighting the intimacy and trust that should characterize every prayer.Second, the prayer reminds believers that God is “our” Father, not merely “my” Father. This communal dimension challenges Christians to recognize that every person is loved by the same God. Therefore, prayer cannot remain self-centered; it must move believers toward compassion, concern, and charity for others. Finally, the petition “Thy will be done” teaches that prayer is ultimately an act of surrender.While people bring their needs and concerns before God, true prayer seeks alignment with God’s will rather than demanding specific outcomes. God always responds to sincere prayer, though His answers may differ from what is expected. We are called to pray with conviction, trust in God’s loving response, and remain attentive to the ways He works in their lives.Hear more within this Meditation Media-----------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist in Gethsemane: German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1886
An Adoration and A Special Rosary with Reflections PilgrimageTake a special spiritual pilgrimage and join several dozen pilgrims in Eucharistic Adoration and the praying of the Rosary. Each decade of the Rosary is accompanied by thoughtful reflections designed to deepen your meditation and prayer.At the beginning of this pilgrimage, St. Louis de Montfort speaks about what he considered the single greatest mistake made by many who pray the Rosary. Listen carefully to his words and discover how this timeless wisdom can enrich your own devotion.As the pilgrims at the Shrine kneel before the Blessed Sacrament exposed in the Monstrance, we invite you to create a prayerful atmosphere in your own home. If possible, place a crucifix or cross nearby as you pray the Rosary. You may also wish to light a candle, provided it can be done safely, as a visible reminder of Christ’s presence and the light of faith.For those who wish to proceed directly to specific portions of the pilgrimage:Gospel and Homily: approximately 13:40Rosary and Reflections: approximately 24:27---------------------------------------------------------------------------This bilingual evening of Eucharistic Adoration and Rosary at the Shrine . . .. . . centers on the Blessed Virgin Mary as the one who leads souls to Jesus Christ, the source of all grace. Drawing from the Gospel of the Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38), the Homily reflects on Mary’s title as “Full of Grace” and presents her as the Mediatrix through whom Christ entered the world and through whom believers continue to encounter Him. The Homily also emphasizes St. Louis de Montfort’s teaching that Christians should begin the Rosary by identifying the particular grace they most need, entrusting their intentions to Our Lady with confidence. Against the backdrop of gathering darkness, the candlelit prayer becomes a symbol of faith, hope, and Christ’s victory over sin and death.A recurring theme throughout the evening is Mary’s role as the “Star of the Sea,” guiding pilgrims safely through the changing seas of life toward the eternal harbor of salvation. The Rosary includes reflections before each decade.---------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Madonna di Foligno: Italian Painter: Raphael: 1511---------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this Painting Selected:Mary appears enthroned in glory with the Christ Child while serving as an intercessor between heaven and earth. The painting beautifully reflects the homily’s theme of Mary as Mediatrix of Grace, bringing souls to Christ.On the left are the kneeling are St. Francis of Assisi and St. John the Baptist.
Storing Up Treasures in HeavenIn this Homily, Jesus calls His disciples to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.The Homily explains that during biblical times people commonly measured wealth through fine clothing, gold and silver, abundant harvests, honor, and power. Yet all these earthly treasures are temporary. Clothes wear out, food decays, wealth can be stolen, and worldly achievements eventually pass away. Through examples such as the rich man and Lazarus and the parable of the rich fool, Jesus reminds His followers that material possessions cannot provide lasting security or eternal life.The Homily emphasizes that the true treasure of heaven is Jesus Christ Himself. Quoting Saint Louis de Montfort . . . “To have Jesus is to have everything” . . . and Saint Augustine’s teaching to love God above all things and love everything else for God’s sake, the Homily invites us to examine our priorities.What Occupies Our First ThoughtsWhat occupies our first thoughts in the morning and our final thoughts at night? God asks not only for our love, but for our supreme love. When God becomes the highest good in our lives, all other gifts . . . family, friendships, work, talents, and possessions . . . find their proper place. The challenge of Christian discipleship is to make God our greatest treasure so that our hearts remain fixed on Him.--------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Painting: Sermon on the Mount: Carl Bloch (1834 -1890)--------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 6:19-23First Reading: 2 Kings 11:1-4, 9-18, 20--------------------------------------------------------------------Why this Image Was Selected:This painting portrays Christ teaching the very principles that form the foundation of the Homily. It captures Jesus instructing His followers about heavenly values, spiritual priorities, and the eternal kingdom.
The Echo of God: Mary’s Praise and the Transformation of the Human Heart This conference represents a Marian retreat centered on praying . . .. . . “with Mary, in Mary, through Mary, and for Mary,” emphasizing that the purpose of the day is not primarily intellectual instruction but interior experience. The opening prayer . . . the Little Crown of the Blessed Virgin . . . draws on Revelation 12’s image of the woman crowned with twelve stars, structured as three “crowns”: excellence (Mary’s virtues and divine motherhood), power (her royal and mediating role in salvation history), and goodness (her compassion toward sinners, the suffering, and the dying).The second half of the reflection develops a meditation on the biblical meaning of the “heart.” In Scripture, the heart is not merely emotion but the center of the human person, the place of desire, loyalty, and moral orientation . . . what shapes either good fruit or evil actions (Luke 6:45; Mark 7). The heart is also closely linked with the eyes and ears: what one sees and hears shapes obedience or resistance to God. A divided heart, influenced by many “lords” such as wealth, power, or ego, contrasts with the single-hearted obedience demanded by the Shema (“The Lord is one”). Mary is presented as the model of this unified heart . . . completely ordered toward God, perfectly receptive to His Word, and fully cooperative with the Holy Spirit.In this light, the Immaculate Heart of Mary is understood as the perfectly purified human heart in total relationship with God . . .fully obedient to the Father, receptive to the Son, and fruitful through the Holy Spirit. Her responses in Scripture (“Let it be done to me according to your word,” and “My soul magnifies the Lord”) reveal her as the “echo of God,” where every honor given to her returns as praise to God. The retreat concludes by inviting participants to examine their own hearts: who or what is their true “lord,” and whether their hearts are unified in God or divided among competing loyalties.Listen to this Meditation Media.The Echo of God: Mary’s Praise and the Transformation of the Human Heart--------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Madonna of the Magnificat: Italian Painter: Sandro Botticelli: 1481This circular painting is by the Italian Renaissance painter Sandro Botticelli. Some know this painting under the title the Virgin and Child with Five Angels. In the painting, we see Our Lady writing the Magnificat with her right hand. Two angels are crowning Our Lady, with the Christ child on her lap. It now resides in the gallery of the Uffizi, in Florence.Note: we often see a smaller version of this painting; focusing on the Crowning of Our Lady. This is the full painting.--------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Mary is shown writing the Magnificat, embodying the idea that everything in her life returns as praise to God . . . an artistic expression of her being the “echo of God.”
Mary, Mother of the Church Today’s Homily reflects on the Feast of Mary, Mother of the Church, . . .. . . highlighting the Church’s growing recognition of Mary’s unique role in salvation history.The Homily explains that Mary’s motherhood of the Church begins with her “yes” at the Annunciation, where she became the New Eve and cooperated in God’s plan of redemption. Her presence at the foot of the Cross, where Jesus entrusted her to the beloved disciple, reveals her spiritual motherhood over all believers.Mary is also present at Pentecost, praying with the first Christian community as the Holy Spirit descends upon the Church. As the one assumed into heaven, she serves as a model and guide for all Christians on their journey toward eternal glory. The feast celebrates Mary as the mother, protector, and spiritual companion of the faithful, leading us ever closer to Christ.Listen to this Meditation Media.Mary, Mother of the Church-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 19: 25-34-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Madonna of the Roses: French Artist and Painter: William-Adolphe Bouguereau: 1903-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:This painting presents Mary as a tender and protective mother. The image beautifully reflects the Homily’s central theme that Mary nurtures and guides all believers as Mother of the Church.
Five Saturdays of Reparation This conference explores the rich history, theology, and spiritual meaning behind the Five First Saturdays Devotion . . . . . . associated with Sister Lucia and Our Lady of Fatima. The conference explains that devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary on Saturdays long predates Fatima, arising from the Church’s meditation on Holy Saturday, when Mary alone remained steadfast in faith while Christ lay in the tomb.Over centuries, Christians began dedicating Saturdays . . . and especially First Saturdays . . . to honoring Mary’s role in salvation history, meditating on the mysteries of the Rosary, and growing spiritually through communal prayer. The conference highlights how the Five First Saturdays requested at Fatima are not a completely new devotion, but a focused renewal of older Marian traditions, emphasizing fervor over routine and intentional prayer over empty habit.Why Five First Saturdays?The conference further explains the spiritual practices requested for the Five First Saturdays: Holy Communion, Confession, praying the Rosary, fifteen minutes of meditation on the mysteries, and offering these acts in reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The conference also explores the five types of Reparation.The devotion is presented as both deeply personal and profoundly catechetical, inviting believers to understand and defend Marian doctrines such as the Immaculate Conception, perpetual virginity, and Mary’s motherhood of God and the Church. The reflection also stresses the importance of reverence, beauty, and intentionality in Catholic devotion, warning against mediocrity and neglect in honoring sacred things.Ultimately, the Five First Saturdays are portrayed as an act of love, reparation, and perseverance, with the promise that the Blessed Mother will assist the faithful with the graces needed at the hour of death.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Two Views of the Official New York State Fatima Pilgrim Image
Childlike Trust and the Path to HolinessToday’s homily reflects on the message of Our Lady of Fátima apparitions and its enduring relevance for the modern world.The homily emphasizes that in the midst of the turmoil of 1917, during the First World War, Heaven chose not worldly leaders but three humble shepherd children to receive Mary’s message. We are reminded that childlike trust and openness to God are essential for entering the Kingdom of Heaven.The central themes of the homily include praying the Rosary daily for peace, offering penance and repentance for sinners, and cultivating devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.True Devotion to Mary Must Come from the Heart, and …Drawing heavily from the teachings of Saint Louis de Montfort, the homily explains that true devotion to Mary must come from the heart, be rooted in trust, strive toward holiness, remain consistent through hardships, and move beyond self-interest into a genuine relationship with Mary that leads souls to Jesus Christ.The Gospel passage from Gospel of Luke is presented as confirmation that Mary’s greatness lies in her perfect obedience to the Word of God, making her the model disciple for all Christians.-------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkSong of the Angels: French Painter: William Adolphe Bouguereau: 1881
Praying in the Spirit of Christ Today’s homily reflects on Jesus’ promise . . .. . . in the Gospel of John that “whatever you ask in my name” will be granted. The homily explains that praying “in Jesus’ name” is not a magical formula or a phrase added to the end of prayer, but rather a way of living and praying in deep union with Christ and according to His Spirit.True Christian prayer requires surrendering one’s own will and conforming oneself to the self-giving, obedient, and loving Spirit of Jesus. The homily emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit, especially in the days between Ascension and Pentecost, as the source of authentic Christian life and prayer. It also highlights the communal dimension of prayer within the Church, especially in the Eucharist, where Christ Himself prays with and through His people.Ultimately, the homily teaches that authentic prayer leads not merely to receiving what one wants, but to experiencing the joy of salvation, communion with the Father, and participation in the very life of Christ.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist in Gethsemane: German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1886
The Bread That Comes Looking for You Today’s Homily reflects on the Gospel discourse of Jesus as the “Bread of Life” . . .. . . alongside the story of the Ethiopian eunuch in the Acts of the Apostles. The central theme is that the true fulfillment of every human longing is found not in places, accomplishments, or temporary satisfactions, but in the person of Jesus Christ, who actively comes seeking humanity.Pilgrimages and Their Implications for UsThe Homily begins by exploring the meaning of pilgrimages. While many people focus on arriving at a holy place, the Homily emphasizes that the journey home is often where grace fully unfolds. The Ethiopian official traveled to Jerusalem seeking God, yet he truly encountered God not in the temple itself, but on the road home through the ministry of Philip the Deacon. Still praying, reading Scripture, and remaining spiritually attentive, the Ethiopian becomes open to receiving the fullness of revelation in Jesus Christ.Satisfying Humanity’s . . .The Homily highlights how persecution unintentionally spread Christianity beyond Jerusalem. Philip’s encounter with the Ethiopian demonstrates that the Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, carries the Gospel outward into the world. Through Philip’s explanation of Scripture, the Ethiopian realizes that Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of every prophecy and every longing of the human heart. Without delay, he asks for baptism, recognizing that what he had traveled so far to seek was now present before him.The Homily then connects this story to Jesus’ teaching in the Gospel: “I am the living bread come down from heaven.” Christ is presented not merely as a teacher or source of doctrine, but as the only true nourishment capable of satisfying humanity’s deepest spiritual hunger. Echoing Saint Augustine, the homily reflects on the restlessness of the human heart apart from God. Earthly pursuits cannot ultimately satisfy the longing for meaning, peace, and eternal life.. . . Deepest Spiritual HungerA particularly moving insight of the Homily is that Jesus does not simply wait to be found; He actively seeks humanity first. Just as Christ came to the Ethiopian through Philip, Jesus continues to come to His people through the Church and especially through the Eucharist. The faithful may come seeking Christ at Mass, but Christ Himself also comes seeking them.Finally, the Homily reflects on the Eucharistic words “eat of it” and “drink from it,” emphasizing the continual nature of Christian life. The Eucharist is not a one-time experience but an ongoing source of divine nourishment. We are called to return again and again to Christ, the Bread of Life, who alone satisfies the deepest hunger of the soul.Listen to this Meditation Media.The Bread That Comes Looking for You--------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkJesus at the Supper of Emmaus: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch: (Lived: 1834-1890 )
Christ Walks With Us Through Every Storm Today’s Homily reflects on the growth of the early Christian Church and the challenges that accompanied that growth.Drawing from the Acts of the Apostles, the Homily explains how the first Christian community expanded rapidly through the witness of the apostles and their communal life of prayer, generosity, and unity. Yet growth also brought tension, particularly between Aramaic-speaking Jews and Hellenistic Jews over the fair distribution of food to widows.The Apostles RespondedThe apostles responded not with division or political balancing, but by selecting wise, Spirit-filled servants to care for the community. The Homily emphasizes that every member of the Church has gifts that should be placed at the service of others for the building up of the Body of Christ.Turning to the Gospel account of Jesus walking on the water, the Homily connects the storm-tossed boat to the Church and to the personal struggles believers face in life. Just as Christ came to the frightened disciples and said, “It is I; do not be afraid,” so too Christ comes to believers amid storms of illness, relationships, and financial hardship. The Homily concludes with a powerful spiritual insight: the opposite of fear is not courage, but faith and trust in Christ.Listen to this Meditation Media.Christ Walks With Us Through Every Storm---------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 6: 16-21---------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkJesus Walking on Water: Russian painter: Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky: 1888Two years after completing this painting, Ivan painted another image with the same title, but noticeably different.---------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:This painting vividly portrays the luminous seascape and beautifully captures Christ approaching the disciples across turbulent waters. The image strongly reflects the Homily’s reassurance that Jesus accompanies believers during moments of fear, uncertainty, and suffering.
Transformed by the Light of Christ The Gospel from Gospel of John emphasizes that true life comes through receiving the Body and Blood of Christ.Jesus teaches that whoever partakes in Him remains united with Him and gains eternal life.The Homily connects this teaching to the dramatic conversion of Saint Paul. Though Saul was actively persecuting Christians, Christ sought him out first . . . revealing that God takes the initiative in seeking us. Through this encounter, Saul is transformed, illustrating that encountering Christ brings about a “new creation.”Believers are Truly United with JesusA key insight is that Christ identifies personally with His followers (“Why are you persecuting me?”), showing that believers are truly united with Him. This unity extends to how we treat others—what we do to others, we do to Christ.Finally, the Eucharist is presented as both nourishment and mission: receiving Christ in the Eucharist gives spiritual strength and eternal life, while also calling us to become Christ to others. We are urged not to take this gift for granted, but to allow it to transform our lives.Listen to this Meditation Media:Transformed by the Light of Christ----------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkConversion of Saint Paul: Flemish Artist and Painter: Peter Paul Rubens: 1610–1612----------------------------------------------------------------Why this panting was selected:Rubens’ painting emphasizes the overwhelming light and transformation that marks Paul’s conversion . . . mirroring the Homily’s theme of becoming a new creation in Christ.
The Lesson of the Basin and Towel Today’s Homily reflects on the Gospel of Gospel of John, . . .. . . focusing on Jesus washing the disciples’ feet at the Last Supper. It highlights three central themes:1. Remembrance with purposeThe readings emphasize not just remembering but living out what is remembered. The Eucharist is not a routine ritual . . . it is a call to actively embody Christ’s self-giving love. The Homily story of “The Guru’s Cat” illustrates how people can continue religious practices while forgetting their original meaning.2. The Eucharist as self-giving loveDrawing from First Letter to the Corinthians, the Homily stresses that the Eucharist is participation in Christ’s total self-gift. Divisions, inequality, and neglect of the poor contradict its meaning.3. The model of humble serviceThrough the act of washing feet, Jesus Christ establishes a new kind of leadership . . . one rooted in humility and service. True greatness in God’s kingdom is expressed through serving others, especially the marginalized.Ultimately, the Homily calls us to move beyond passive remembrance into active love, unity, and service, especially toward the poor and suffering.Listen to this Meditation Media.The Lesson of the Basin and Towel----------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist Washing the Disciples’ Feet: Italian Renaissance painter: Jacopo Robusti, best known as Tintoretto: 1549----------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:This painting vividly portrays the humility of Jesus washing feet. It visually reinforces the Homily’s message that leadership in Christ’s kingdom is expressed through service.----------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 13:1-15
From Fear to Faith: Meeting Christ on the Way Today’s Easter Homily centers on the Resurrection as the very foundation of the Christian faith.Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew, the Homily reflects on the experience of Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, who approach the tomb filled with love . . . but also anxiety, grief, and uncertainty. Instead of finding the crucified Christ, they encounter an empty tomb, an angel, and a powerful message: “Do not be afraid.”Do Not Be AfraidThe homily emphasizes that the Resurrection is not just an event, but a new beginning . . . a “first day” of creation, where God renews and restores life. Just as the women came with worries and questions, so too do we carry our own burdens . . . fear, illness, uncertainty about loved ones, and struggles in faith. Yet, like them, we are invited to move forward in faith despite not seeing clearly.A key insight is that the women encounter Jesus only after they begin to act in faith . . . they believe the message and start moving. This teaches that Christ meets us not when everything is certain, but as we step forward in trust.The call to go to Galilee symbolizes a return to one’s origin of faith . . . our own “Galilee” being our baptism, where we first encountered Christ. The message is to renew that commitment and rediscover our mission.The homily concludes with a relatable analogy from sports: once you know your team has already won, you can watch the game without fear. In the same way, the Resurrection assures us that God has already won, that His love is stronger than death, and therefore we can live without fear.Listen to this Meditation Media:From Fear to Faith: Meeting Christ on the Way-------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Three Marys at the Tomb : Italian Baroque Artist: Annibale Carracci: 1600-------------------------------------------------------------------------Why this panting was selected:This work portrays the women at the tomb in a moment of transition . . . fear turning into realization. It aligns closely with the Homily’s focus on movement from anxiety to faith.
Not Indifference, But Decision: Choosing Christ Today’s Homily marks the beginning of Holy Week, . . .. . . emphasizing how the practices of Lent . . . prayer, fasting, and almsgiving . . . prepare us for this sacred time. Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew, the Homily highlights unique details: Judas’s remorse and despair, Pilate’s wife’s warning, and Pilate’s ultimate indifference. These moments underscore a central call . . . not to remain indifferent, but to choose Christ.Matthew’s Gospel repeatedly affirms that Jesus fulfills the prophecies, revealing Him as the long-awaited Savior. The liturgical act of kneeling during the Passion reading invites deeper reflection on the meaning of Christ’s death.The imagery of darkness at Christ’s death connects to creation in Genesis . . . “let there be light” . . . signifying that Jesus’ sacrifice brings new life and spiritual renewal. The tearing of the temple veil symbolizes the restoration of the relationship between God and humanity.Ultimately, Holy Week is not just something to observe externally, but something to internalize. We are called to let it transform us . . . to recognize, like the centurion, that “truly this was the Son of God,” and to grow in faith, trust, and love.Listen more toNot Indifference, But Decision: Choosing Christ----------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work What is Truth?: Russan Painter: Nikolai Nikolaevich Ge: 1890This painting highlights the tension between Christ and Pilate, perfectly embodying the theme of indifference versus moral choice. Pilate’s internal struggle mirrors the homily’s call to actively choose Jesus.----------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 26:14—27:66First Reading: Isaiah 50:4-7Note: The Gospel reading is not included within the audio. Only the Homily.
Lenten Retreat Conference No. 5: When I Am Lifted Up: The Saving Innocence of ChristNote: This audio is the fifth Friday Retreat Conference within the Lenten Season.When I Am Lifted Up: The Saving Innocence of Christ This fifth conference within the Lenten Devotional Season . . .. . . explains how the season of Lent developed over time in the Church. Originally, Lent focused on preparing new converts for baptism, but as Christianity became widespread, it shifted toward renewing the faith of all believers.By the Middle Ages, Lent took on two parts: the first emphasizing prayer, fasting, and almsgiving for personal conversion, and the second . . . beginning around the fifth week (Passiontide) . . . focusing on the Cross and Christ’s suffering.Covering of Crosses and ImagesA key tradition during this time is the covering of crosses and images. This practice symbolizes a “fasting of the eyes,” helping believers recognize that they often take sacred things for granted. By temporarily hiding these images, the Church invites deeper reflection so that, when the Cross is revealed on Good Friday, it is encountered with renewed understanding and reverence.The conference emphasizes that the Cross is central to understanding Jesus. While the world resists suffering and self-sacrifice, Christ reveals that true life comes through self-denial, self-giving, and sacrifice. This is why Jesus teaches: to follow Him, one must first deny oneself, then take up the cross.Lent prepares believers for this call. Through spiritual discipline, they are strengthened to confront their own weaknesses and worldly tendencies, which often prioritize self-interest over God’s will. As Passiontide begins, the Church asks a deeper question: not just whether one follows Jesus, but how deeply one desires to follow Him, even to the Cross.The culmination comes on Good Friday, when the Cross is finally unveiled. This moment represents a profound revelation of Christ’s love and sacrifice, drawing believers to venerate and personally encounter it. From the Cross flows forgiveness . . . Jesus’ first words being “Father, forgive them” . . . highlighting mercy as the heart of the mystery.The conference encourages participation in the sacrament of reconciliation, especially during Lent, as a concrete response to Christ’s mercy. Overall, Lent is presented as a journey of conversion, leading believers to a deeper understanding of the Cross, which is the source and summit of Christian life.Listen to this devotional Lenten Retreat Conference and let it transform your heart. Listen to:When I Am Lifted Up: The Saving Innocence of Christ-----------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Christ Carrying the Cross: Italian Painter: Giovanni Bellini: 1500The painting presents a quiet, intimate moment. Christ is shown close to the viewer, transforming the scene into a personal encounter . . . a call to contemplation and compassion.
A, key topics included:• Marian devotion, explained through the spirituality of Saint Louis de Montfort, emphasizing that true devotion to Mary always leads to Jesus• Vocation discernment, highlighting the importance of listening to God despite distractions and fears• Doubt, acknowledged as part of faith, but overcome by trust in God’s constant presence• Modern challenges, encouraging young people to seek silence, prayer, and truth amid a noisy and confusing world.The Mass Gospel from Gospel of Luke reinforces humility in prayer through the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. True prayer comes from the heart, not self-righteousness.The retreat concludes with a Lenten call to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, stressing that what God desires most is not outward actions alone, but a sincere heart—offering even one’s sins for transformation.Overall, the message encourages young adults to:• Trust in Jesus• Encounter Him personally• Live faith in community• Pray with humility• Respond courageously to God’s callListen more toDo Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled---------------------------------------------------------------During this Retreat, a brief description of future Retreats is discussed.---------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Storm on the Sea of Galilee: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1633Uniquely, this painting was in a Boston Museum for almost 100 years, until 1990. It was stolen that year and remains missing.
Conversion at the Well: Change of Heart, Change of Life The Conference and reflection centers on the Gospel story of Jesus and the Samaritan Woman.The reflection explains that the story reveals two kinds of thirst: the human thirst for meaning, acceptance, and fulfillment, and God’s thirst for humanity. Spiritual life begins not with our search for God, but with God seeking us.The Samaritan woman represents every person. She comes to the well physically thirsty but also carrying deeper needs . . . acceptance, forgiveness, belonging, and a new beginning. Because of her past relationships and the judgment of others, she lives in isolation and comes to the well at noon to avoid people.Jesus approaches her without judgment and asks for a drink. Their conversation gradually reveals who he truly is. The woman’s understanding grows step-by-step: she first sees Jesus as a man, then a Jew, then a prophet, and finally recognizes that he may be the Christ, the Savior of the world. Jesus speaks the truth about her life, but without condemnation, showing that truth expressed with love can lead to healing and inclusion.Jesus offers her “living water”, symbolizing the grace that satisfies the deepest thirst of the human soul and leads to eternal life. Once she experiences this encounter, she leaves her water jar behind—symbolizing that her deeper thirst has been met—and becomes a missionary, telling others about Jesus. Many people come to believe in him because of her testimony.The message of the reflection is that each person is like the Samaritan woman, searching for fulfillment in many places. Jesus meets us at the “well” of our own lives and offers the living water that truly satisfies. God does not choose people because they are morally perfect but because they have a thirsting heart open to him.Listen to this devotional Lenten Retreat Conference and let it transform your heart. Listen to:Conversion at the Well: Change of Heart, Change of Life--------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist Carrying the Cross: Italian Painter: Giovanni Bellini: 1500The painting presents a quiet, intimate moment. Christ is shown close to the viewer, transforming the scene into a personal encounter . . . a call to contemplation and compassion.
Love and The Cross: Why Christ Gave His LifeToday’s Homily focuses on the Gospel parable of the tenants (Matthew 21:33–46), . . .. . . emphasizing that the foundation of Christ’s sacrifice is God’s love, not simply human sin.The landowner in the parable represents God, who lovingly prepares the vineyard and entrusts it to tenants. Despite the tenants’ violence toward the servants and even the son, the landowner’s patience reveals God’s enduring trust that people can change and bear fruit.Why Christ Gave His LifeThe message of Lent is that God loves humanity so deeply that He sends His Son, inviting conversion rather than immediate judgment. The Homily also recalls the story of Joseph and his brothers, showing how jealousy arises from comparison, leading to division and sin.Recognizing God’s personal love for each of us frees us from jealousy and calls us to respond with the fruits God desires: charity, patience, forgiveness, and faithful living.Listen to:Love and The Cross: Why Christ Gave His LifeListen to this Meditation Media-------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist Crucified: Spanish Painter: Diego Velázquez: 1632
The Reluctant Prophet: The Frightening Greatness of Mercy This conference focuses on the meaning of repentance and God’s mercy during Lent, . . .. . . using the Book of Jonah as a mirror for the human heart. When God calls Jonah to preach repentance to the wicked city of Nineveh, Jonah flees because he suspects that God might forgive them. His flight symbolizes how people often resist God’s will, cling to resentment, and struggle with the idea that mercy might extend even to their enemies.Through humorous and ironic events . . . Jonah fleeing by ship, being thrown into the sea, swallowed by a great fish, and finally preaching reluctantly . . . scripture reveals both the stubbornness of the human heart and the persistence of God’s grace. Jonah’s preaching leads the people of Nineveh to sincere repentance, and God spares the city, which angers Jonah because he prefers justice without mercy. Why? The conference further explains.The book of Jonah concludes with God challenging Jonah’s narrowness of heart. If Jonah can care about a small plant that gives him comfort, should not God care for the thousands of people in Nineveh who do not yet understand right from wrong?Jesus himself says, this generation will only receive the sign of Jonah. What Does That Mean?The conference then turns to Jesus Christ, who contrasts with Jonah. While Jonah runs from his mission and resents mercy, Christ willingly comes into the world and gives His life for sinners. Jesus fulfills the “sign of Jonah”: just as Jonah spent three days in the fish, Christ spends three days in the tomb, but unlike Jonah, He enters death to rescue humanity. Hear more within the conference!The central Lenten message is that God’s mercy is wider and more generous than human expectations. We are called not only to seek forgiveness through repentance and confession, but also to accept the radical scope of God’s mercy . . . even toward those they find hardest to forgive.Listen to this third devotional Lenten Retreat Conference and let it transform your heart. Listen to:The Reluctant Prophet: The Frightening Greatness of Mercy-----------------------------------------------------------------------Note:This marks the Third Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. Select the Friday Lenten Season Link on the QoAH website to see all conferences captured to date.-----------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist Carrying the Cross: Italian Painter: Giovanni Bellini: 1500The painting presents a quiet, intimate moment. Christ is shown close to the viewer, transforming the scene into a personal encounter . . . a call to contemplation and compassion.-----------------------------------------------------------------------You can find out more about the icon referenced in the conference . . . when Jesus reaches down to pull Adam and Eve from Hell . . . links and the icon image appear on the QoAH website.
From the Roadside to the Roadway: True Freedom of Life and Spirit This Lenten retreat centers on Jesus as the Light who seeks us out . . .. . . and invites us into deeper conversion. Using the story of the healing of the blind beggar, the conference emphasizes that the spiritual life is not primarily about our search for God, but about God’s relentless search for us. From the beginning of salvation history, God takes the initiative, calling humanity into relationship and asking for a response of faith.Lent, therefore, is a time of intentional discipline . . . prayer, fasting, and sacrifice . . . not as punishment, but to rediscover what truly matters and to remove whatever “blinds” us spiritually. Sin is described as a kind of blindness that prevents us from seeing reality, God’s presence, and the path to fullness of life.Seeing the Face of Christ: Perseverance, Faith, and the Light of ConversionLike the blind man who cries out despite opposition, believers must persevere even when enthusiasm fades or when others discourage their commitment. Following Christ always involves resistance and ultimately leads to the Cross; yet the Cross is not the end but the path to salvation.Jesus’ question, “What do you want me to do for you?”, becomes the central personal challenge of Lent. Each person must answer honestly, ask for spiritual sight, and choose to follow Christ with faith. When one truly “sees” the face of Christ, one cannot help but follow Him.The candle-lighting and procession to the crucifix symbolize this journey: moving from darkness to light, from blindness to faith, and from intention to committed discipleship.For listeners to this conference, place a cross in your hand, and meditate on your response to Jesus’ question, “What do you want me to do for you?”. As you gaze upon His face commit your Lenten Season to Following Him.Listen to this second devotional Lenten Retreat Conference and let it transform your heart. Listen to:From the Roadside to the Roadway: True Freedom of Life and Spirit-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist Carrying the Cross: Italian Painter: Giovanni Bellini: 1500The painting presents a quiet, intimate moment. Christ is shown close to the viewer, transforming the scene into a personal encounter . . . a call to contemplation and compassion.
Jesus Tells Us: Follow Me Out of the DarknessToday’s Homily contrasts mere compliance with true obedience in the spiritual life, . . .. . . especially during Lent. Compliance is external, minimal, and checklist-driven . . . doing what is required without interior conversion. Obedience, however, is transformative: it allows God’s commands to shape the heart, form character, and open a person to charity, generosity, and deeper union with Him.Practices such as prayer, fasting, Sabbath observance, and almsgiving are not ends in themselves. When done only outwardly, they are empty. Their purpose is to redirect the believer away from self-absorption and toward love of God and neighbor, forming a heart capable of mercy.Lent is Thus a JourneyFasting should lead to generosity; prayer should reshape desire; rest should become rest in God, not mere inactivity. This teaching echoes the prophetic call found in the Book of Isaiah. The Gospel image of Jesus calling Levi (Matthew) illustrates this movement vividly. Levi sits enclosed in a tax booth . . . symbolizing the human tendency to cling to security, ambition, resentment, or comfort. Christ’s command, “Follow me,” is not a suggestion but a liberating summons to step out of spiritual confinement.Lent is thus a journey of following Christ out of darkness toward the joy of Easter, where He leads His people “home” into communion, celebration, and true rest . . . an invitation also expressed in Gospel of Matthew.Ultimately, salvation may be characterized as entering God’s rest: a life no longer ruled by self-will, but transformed into the likeness of Christ through prayer, sacrifice, and charity.Hear more within the Homily. Listen toJesus Tells Us: Follow Me Out of the Darkness------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Calling Of Saint Matthew: Dutch painter: Hendrick Ter Brugghen: 1621------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Matthew’s hesitation and awakening, mirroring the sermon’s image of Christ entering the “customs booth” of the human heart to lead it into light.
First Lenten Retreat: The Works of Lent: Growth Toward a Generous SpiritDuring each Friday of the Lenten Season, there will be a Lenten Retreat Conference.This is the first week within this series. Each conference will appear singularly on the Website, SoundCloud, Facebook and iPod platforms. All conferences will also appear within this post.This Retreat explains that Lent has a deliberate spiritual structure rooted in early Church practice.While many people think of Lent mainly as “giving something up,” the Church intends something deeper: a transformation of the heart through the three traditional works of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.Historically, Ash Wednesday was added later as a gateway into Lent, orienting believers toward repentance and renewal. In the ancient Church . . . especially in Rome . . . seasonal fasts (later called Ember Days) connected spiritual life to the rhythms of agriculture: planting, growth, harvest, and sharing food with those in need.These fasts were communal, not private, and included processions, vigils, ordinations, and acts of charity. The faithful prayed not only for themselves but for crops, the poor, catechumens preparing for baptism, and new ministers of the Church.The Retreat stresses that Lenten practices are not about quantity (“doing more”) but quality and intention:• Prayer asks for whom and how we pray, deepening attentiveness to God.• Fasting reveals what we truly hunger for, disciplines disordered desires, and fosters solidarity with the poor.• Almsgiving is the goal toward which prayer and fasting lead . . . self-gift in imitation of Christ.True fasting expands the heart; true prayer changes behavior; true charity gives not just possessions but oneself.Lent therefore trains Christians to move from self-centeredness to sacrificial love, mirroring Christ’s own self-emptying. Ultimately, charity endures above all virtues and becomes the visible sign of authentic faith.Listen to this first devotional Lenten Retreat Conference and let it transform your heart. Join us virtually, or physically, each week for additional Lenten Retreat conferences.Listen to:The Works of Lent: Growth Toward a Generous Spirit---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist Carrying the Cross: Italian Painter: Giovanni Bellini: 1500The painting presents a quiet, intimate moment. Christ is shown close to the viewer, transforming the scene into a personal encounter . . . a call to contemplation and compassion.
Jesus Tells Us: Be Opened: From Silence to Faith In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus travels through the pagan region . . .. . . of Decapolis, near the Sea of Galilee, where a man who is deaf and unable to speak is brought to him.Jesus takes the man away from the crowd, touches his ears and tongue, looks to heaven, and says “Be opened.” The man is immediately healed and begins to hear and speak clearly. Though Jesus asks for silence, the people proclaim the miracle with amazement.Drawing on the teaching of Saint Augustine, the Homily explains that Christ’s actions are never merely physical; they reveal a deeper spiritual reality. The miracle symbolizes humanity’s spiritual deafness . . . especially in a world dominated by secular values such as wealth, pleasure, and power. Just as the man could not speak until he first heard, people today cannot proclaim God’s truth unless they first listen to His Word.Encounter God PersonallyJesus’ act of taking the man away from the crowd signifies the need to step out of worldly noise to encounter God personally. Having “heard” Christ and received Him . . . especially in the Eucharist . . . believers are sent forth to evangelize.The most convincing witness is not words alone but a transformed life, particularly how Christians face suffering and challenges with hope and courage. By living differently from the world, they “radiate Christ” and show that faith, not material success, is what truly matters.Listen to this Homily on faith!Jesus Tells Us: Be Opened: From Silence to Faith------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkHealing of the Blind Man by Jesus Christ: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch: 1871------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 7: 31-37First Reading: 1 Kings 11: 29-32; 12: 19------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Though depicting another healing, this image emphasizes the one-on-one encounter with Christ, mirroring the Gospel’s detail that Jesus leads the man away from the crowd to heal him personally . . . an image of individual spiritual awakening.
From Not Enough to More Than EnoughToday’s Homily unites two biblical moments:First, The Gospel (Mark 8: Feeding of the Four Thousand) reveals Christ’s deep compassion for humanity wandering in a spiritual “wilderness.” The crowd cannot sustain itself; human resources are insufficient. Yet when the disciples offer their “not much” . . . seven loaves and a few fish . . . Jesus transforms scarcity into abundance. This miracle foreshadows the Eucharist: Christ continues to feed the world through His Church, using humble means to accomplish divine grace.Second, The First Reading (Jeroboam and the Divided Kingdom) shows the opposite movement. Jeroboam, though raised up by God, becomes insecure and replaces true worship with convenient, man-made alternatives. He prefers control, comfort, and political security over trust in the Lord. This leads to spiritual decline and instability for Israel.The contrast is deliberate:• Jeroboam grasps, mistrusts, and substitutes human solutions → leading to loss.• The disciples surrender their inadequacy to Christ → leading to superabundance.The Homily and scripture message for today is clear: we must not reshape faith around convenience or personal preference. Instead, we entrust our poverty, weakness, and “not enough” to Christ, who alone can transform them into saving grace . . . especially through Word and Sacrament.The Homily concludes with a correlation of today's theme with Montfort's teachings.Hear more within the Homily. Listen toFrom Not Enough to More Than Enough---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes: Italian painter: Giovanni Lanfranco: 1620The painting was commissioned for and may be found in the Blessed Sacrament chapel in the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 8: 1-10First Reading: 1 Kings 12: 26-32; 13: 33-34---------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:The image dramatically captures Christ at the center of action, emphasizing divine power working through ordinary bread and human participation. The painting mirrors the sermon’s central truth: what seems insufficient becomes inexhaustible in Christ’s hands.
Witnesses Who Chose God Above Life Itself Today’s Homily contrasts two models of leadership and discipleship . . . . . . drawn from Scripture and tradition.King David is presented as a leader chosen by God who, despite his sins, remained humble, repentant, and rooted in reverence for the Lord. His strength was not perfection, but his willingness to return to God and recognize that his authority and life came from Him.Herod, by contrast, represents a leader who hears the truth but lacks the courage to live it. Though he respects John the Baptist and is intrigued by his message, Herod allows pride, public opinion, and personal weakness to override conscience. His fear of losing face leads to the unjust execution of John.The Church then proposes St. Paul Miki and his companions as a third example . . . not merely leaders, but witnesses (martyrs) who fully embrace the truth of Christ. Unlike Herod, they do not compromise when faced with pressure or death; they proclaim that “Jesus is Lord” even from the cross.The message for Christians today is a call to moral courage: we may not face martyrdom, but we are continually asked to stand for truth, live from God, and return to Him in all things. The faithful are encouraged to pray for the strength to choose the path of David and the martyrs rather than that of Herod.Listen to this Meditation Media.Witnesses Who Chose God Above Life Itself--------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkMartyrdom of St. Paul Miki and his companions: Engraving by Dutch Artist: Abraham van Diepenbeeck: 1596--------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:The image depicts the martyrdom of Paul Miki and the Japanese martyrs, visually expressing steadfast faith in the face of death . . . the ultimate example of living the truth proclaimed in the Homily.--------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 6: 14-29First Reading: Sirach 47: 2-11
Sheep Without a ShepherdTher readings and Gospel present . . .. . . the shared human experience of being overwhelmed by responsibility and need.King Solomon, faced with ruling a vast people, does not ask for power, wealth, or long life, but humbly asks God for the wisdom to discern what is truly right. His prayer pleases the Lord because it flows from humility and a desire to serve well rather than to benefit himself.This theme continues in the Gospel, where the apostles return from ministry exhausted and surrounded by endless demands. Jesus invites them to withdraw and rest, yet the crowds follow.When to Entrust the Rest to the LordInstead of placing the burden back on the apostles, Jesus steps forward as the true Shepherd, caring for the people while his disciples rest. The lesson is clear: human beings are limited, and only God can attend to every need. True wisdom lies in knowing when to act and when to entrust the rest to the Lord.The Homily concludes by applying this truth to the Eucharist. In a world of constant distraction and obligation, worship is a sacred space where believers are invited to set aside their burdens, allow Christ to shepherd them, and receive renewal. The needs of the world will wait; for this moment, the Lord himself provides rest and restoration.Hear more in this Meditation Media. Listen to Sheep Without a Shepherd----------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 6: 30-34First Reading: 1 Kings 3: 4-13----------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Good Shepherd: Spanish Artist: Bartolomé Esteban Murillo: 1660The Good Shepherd is an oil on canvas painting, now residing in the Prado Museum in Madrid----------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Murillo’s tender depiction of Christ gently guiding his sheep visually embodies the Gospel scene where Jesus sees the crowd as “sheep without a shepherd.” The calm authority and compassion of Christ reflect his role as the one who carries the burden so others may rest.
The Kingdom Grows in Silence Today’s Homily focuses on Jesus’ parables of the seed . . .. . . and mustard seed from the Gospel of Mark along with the story of King David’s sin and repentance from the Book of Samuel.The Mysterious, Gradual, and Often Hidden Nature of Spiritual GrowthThe Homily highlights the mysterious, gradual, and often hidden nature of spiritual growth in the Kingdom of God. Just as seeds grow quietly in the soil without human control, grace works slowly and inevitably within receptive hearts.David’s fall with Bathsheba illustrates humanity’s constant vulnerability to sin . . . even among the chosen and favored . . . while Psalm 51 gives voice to repentance and the hope of interior transformation. Against this backdrop, Jesus’ parables reveal that God’s Kingdom does not arrive through spectacle or instant change, but through small beginnings, patient faith, and sustained growth nourished within the soil of the Church.True understanding of Christ’s teaching requires not only intellectual effort but a living relationship with Him. From baptism to the Eucharist, God plants His life within us like a seed, promising that . . . even when it seems small or insignificant . . . it carries within it the power to grow, transform, and bear abundant fruit for the life of the world.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Kingdom Grows in Silence--------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 4: 26-34First Reading: 2 Samuel 11: 1-4, 5-10, 13-17--------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Sower: French Artist and Painter: Jean-François Millet: 1850--------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:The Sower captures the quiet, uncelebrated act of scattering seed—an image that perfectly reflects the parable of the seed growing “he knows not how.” The figure works faithfully, unaware of how or when the harvest will come, mirroring the mysterious, hidden action of grace in the soul and the slow unfolding of the Kingdom of God.
Jesus Asks, Why Are You Afraid? Awakening Faith Within TheHomily reviews the Gospel account of Jesus calming the storm . . .. . . (Mark 4:35–41) with moral and spiritual lessons drawn from King David’s repentance and everyday human experience.The disciples’ fear during the storm reveals their fragile faith, even though Christ is present with them. Jesus’ calm, even while asleep, demonstrates perfect trust in the Father and offers a model for finding interior peace amid life’s storms.The Homily contrasts human judgment . . . quick to condemn others but slow to recognize personal sin . . . with David’s humility in acknowledging his own wrongdoing. Sin, while forgivable, always leaves consequences, illustrated through the parable of nails hammered into a wall. The reflection urges self-awareness, repentance, and mercy.Awaken Christ Within YouUltimately, the Homily calls believers to awaken Christ within themselves through prayer and the sacraments, especially Confession and the Eucharist. True peace comes from allowing Jesus to dwell actively in one’s heart, enabling courage, trust, and stability amid the storms of life.Listen toJesus Asks, Why Are You Afraid? Awakening Faith Within--------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist Asleep during the Tempest: French Painter: Eugène Delacroix: 1853The painting is now displayed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.--------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 4: 35-41First Reading: 2 Samuel 12: 1-7, 10-17--------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:The artist emphasizes Christ sleeping peacefully while chaos reigns around Him. This directly reflects the Homily’s insight that fear arises when Christ is “allowed to sleep” within us, and that faith must actively awaken His presence through prayer and sacramental life.
True Happiness Is Found in GodThe Gospel of the Beatitudes presents a vision of happiness that overturns ordinary human expectations. While the world associates blessedness with wealth, power, and security, Jesus proclaims the blessed as those who are poor in spirit, meek, merciful, pure of heart, and persecuted for righteousness.Drawing from Greek and Hebrew traditions, the Homily explains that “blessed” no longer means being untouched by suffering, but rather living with a heart oriented toward God.Blessed Means . . .A divided heart seeks happiness in wealth, power, pleasure, and fame, yet remains restless and unfulfilled. In contrast, a pure or undivided heart finds its fulfillment in God alone. From this God-centered heart flows mercy, justice, and love for others.True happiness, the Homily informs us, is not found in worldly achievements but in meditating on and living according to the law of the Lord, allowing God to be the sole treasure of the heart.Listen to this Meditation Media.True Happiness Is Found in God-------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 5: 1-12First Reading: Zephaniah 2: 3; 3:12-13Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1: 26-31-------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkSnowbow: QoAHs Digital Team: 2026Taken near Rochester, NY-------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Have you ever just stopped and looked at the world and appreciate the beauty within it … the beauty God has made within this world?The QoAH digital team recently experienced a special nature moment viewing a Snowbow.Ok, is there really such a word? The answer is yes! It happens when the rising sun shines off snow crystals in the air. The above image shows the rising sun on the right and snow crystals revealing an orange and red stream of color. The vertical bands of color are straight up and down, unlike the normal arc curve of a typical rainbow. There was another upward band to the right of the sun … off camera.Just an amazingly beautiful view of nature…Happiness Found in God!
Jesus: The True King Before the Sea of Need The Homily focuses on the Gospel of Mark . . .. . . and the Old Testament account of David and Saul to contrast two radically different models of kingship and authority.In the Gospel, Jesus draws overwhelming crowds from every direction . . . Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, and beyond. The weight of human need is so great that his disciples must prepare a boat to keep him from being crushed. Jesus heals, teaches, and confronts unclean spirits, yet refuses acclaim or self-promotion. His kingship is defined not by ego or force, but by mercy, humility, and service to the wounded.This is set against the tragic example of King Saul, whose victory over Goliath becomes the seed of his downfall. Saul’s fragile ego turns David . . . God’s chosen servant . . . into a perceived enemy. Saul embodies the ruler who serves God on his own terms, seeking praise, control, and personal glory. David, though deeply flawed, remains oriented toward God’s will, capable of repentance and humility.The Homily culminates in Christ as the true Son of David and Mary as Queen through obedience. God’s kingdom is revealed not as conquest by power, but as a conquest of love—founded on surrender to God’s will rather than domination. True authority flows from hearts mastered by God, not from self-assertion or acclaim.Listen toJesus: The True King Before the Sea of Need----------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist Healing the Paralytic at the Pool of Bethesda: Spanish Painter: Bartolomé Esteban Murillo: 1667----------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 3: 7-12First Reading: 1 Samuel 18: 6-9; 19:1-7----------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Murillo’s Christ stands amid a mass of broken, desperate humanity . . . bodies pressed close, faces marked by suffering. The painting mirrors Mark’s emphasis on overwhelming crowds and Christ’s quiet authority. Jesus is central not as a ruler demanding praise, but as a healer absorbing the crushing weight of human need.
Waiting for God’s Time The Gospel recounts Jesus ascending the mountain to call and appoint the Twelve Apostles, . . .. . . choosing them to be with him, to preach, and to exercise spiritual authority. This act highlights divine initiative: God chooses, calls, and sends according to His will, not human ambition.The Homily then turns to the Old Testament encounter between David and Saul. Saul, consumed by jealousy, seeks to kill David in order to preserve his power, while David . . . though unjustly persecuted for many years . . . refuses to take revenge when Saul’s life is placed in his hands. David recognizes Saul as “the Lord’s anointed” and entrusts justice and fulfillment of God’s promise entirely to God’s timing.True Faith Resists the Urge to Hasten God’s PromisesThe central lesson contrasts jealousy and revenge with patience, discernment, and reverence for life. Jealousy corrupts the heart and leads toward death, while waiting on God preserves life and aligns human action with divine purpose.David teaches that God’s plans do not require human violence or manipulation to be fulfilled. True faith resists the urge to hasten God’s promises and instead allows God alone to sign His work, especially when life itself is at stake.Listen to this Meditation Media.Waiting for God’s Time------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkKing David – the King of Israel: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst: 1622King David playing the harp.
God’s Call and Our Response The Homily reflects on readings from Scripture, focusing on how Saul . . .. . . despite being appointed and anointed by God and filled with the Holy Spirit . . . fell from grace.The central question, “How have the warriors fallen?” is repeated to emphasize a tragic decline rooted in disobedience to God and jealousy. Saul stopped listening to God, chose his own ego, and became consumed by comparison and envy toward David’s success. The Homily compares this to everyday experiences of comparison and highlights that the antidote is gratitude and obedience to God, recognizing that God’s grace meets our needs, not our wants.The Homily closes with a prayer that we remain attentive, obedient, and grateful to God so as not to fall like Saul.Listen toGod’s Call and Our Response---------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:This moment of divine calling highlights the importance of listening and responding to God . . . a central lesson in the text. It contrasts obedience with Saul’s failure to heed God.---------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work The Calling of St. Matthew: Italian Painter: Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, : 1599-1600This painting is unique. It depicts Jesus, with an outstretched arm, pointing to Levi. The tax collectors are illuminated by light as they look at Jesus. St. Peter stands near Jesus, as He tells Levi to Follow Me!. The painting resides in Rome within San Luigi dei Francesi. The painting hangs next to two other St. Matthew paintings, including the Martyrdom of St. Matthew.---------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 3: 20-21First Reading: 2 Samuel 1: 1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27
Jesus Tells Us: Follow Me: The Claim That Changes Everything Today’s Homily reflects on call and claims as central to God’s action in human lives.Drawing first from Saul’s unexpected anointing as king, it shows that God’s call is never earned, sought, or managed . . . it arrives unanticipated and places a claim on the person to grow into what God has given. Saul’s tragedy is not that he was unworthy, but that he failed to grow into the dignity of the call.This theme reaches its fullness in the Gospel account of Jesus calling Levi. Jesus does not invite Levi politely or negotiate terms; He commands, “Follow me.” The call is immediate, authoritative, and relational. Levi’s response . . . getting up and following at once . . . is remarkable precisely because it defies normal human hesitation.Jesus Calling LeviThe Homily emphasizes that Jesus does not come to be with us; He comes for us to be with Him. Levi’s place is no longer the customs booth but with Christ. Even when Jesus leads Levi home, it is Jesus who brings Levi there rightly, transforming his home into a gathering place for sinners in need of mercy.The scandal for the Pharisees is that Jesus places Himself among sinners. Their mistake is wanting to assign God a place. Jesus corrects them by revealing the deeper truth: God defines our place, and our place is with Him. Christ comes not for the self-proclaimed righteous, but for those who recognize their need for healing.Ultimately, the Homily continues and reassures believers that salvation is not based on righteousness achieved, but on mercy received. In the Eucharist, Christ again calls, “Follow me,” and the faithful respond by rising and moving toward Him . . . then following Him back into daily life, where their true place remains with Him.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us: Follow Me: The Claim That Changes Everything--------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work The Calling of St. Matthew: Dutch Artist and Painter: Hendrick ter Brugghen: 1621--------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Brugghen’s interpretation emphasizes movement and decision. Matthew’s rising from the table reflects the homily’s insistence that hearing the call is not enough . . . the response requires motion, leaving behind comfort, status, and certainty.--------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 2: 13-17First Reading: 1 Samuel 9: 1-4, 17-19; 10:1
He Must Increase, I Must DecreaseHe Must Increase, . . . The Homily weaves together the Letter of St. John and the Gospel’s encounter . . .. . . with John the Baptist to confront a central Christian tension: believers are truly begotten of God and called to freedom from sin, yet they still struggle daily with weakness and divided hearts. St. John’s stark claim that those begotten of God do not sin is not naïve or dismissive of human frailty; rather, it holds before us the full vision of what God’s grace is meant to accomplish over time . . . a gradual but real transformation into holiness.This struggle is most clearly expressed in the warning, “Beware of idols.” Idolatry is not merely the worship of false gods in stone or wood, but the subtler temptation to fashion God in our own image—to follow Him on our terms, according to our preferences, fears, and egos. Such self-made gods quietly displace the true God and fracture the heart. As surrender to Christ deepens, these idols lose their power.. . . I Must DecreaseThe Gospel illustrates this truth through John the Baptist’s humility. Faced with questions about ritual washings and concerns about his diminishing prominence, John redirects attention away from himself and toward Christ. Rituals, ministries, and even religious figures have meaning only insofar as they prepare the way for Jesus. John’s defining posture . . . “He must increase; I must decrease” . . . is not self-negation but right ordering: Christ must be central, and everything else finds its place in relation to Him.As the Christmas season draws to a close with the Baptism of the Lord, the reflection culminates sacramentally in the Eucharist. Christ, once an infant in the manger, now comes to dwell within the believer. Each “Amen” becomes a renewed rejection of idols and a consent to Christ’s growth within the heart. Slowly, faithfully, this diminishing of self allows believers to approach the freedom and joy of true children of God.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:He Must Increase, I Must Decrease--------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkSt John the Baptist in the Wilderness: Spanish Artist and Painter: Diego Velazquez: 1620
The Heavens Were Opened Today’s Homily centers on the Baptism of the Lord, which concludes the Christmas season . . .. . . and inaugurates Jesus’ public ministry. Though troubling to early Christians . . . since Jesus is sinless and baptism was for repentance . . . Matthew emphasizes that Jesus submits to baptism to “fulfill all righteousness.” In doing so, Jesus completes God’s long-standing pattern of serving and saving His people through water, seen throughout the Old Testament: the Flood, the crossing of the Red Sea, and the crossing of the Jordan into the Promised Land, each accompanied by the presence of divine wind or Spirit.At Jesus’ baptism, the waters are not parted; instead, the heavens are opened, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove, revealing Jesus as the beloved Son. Through this act, heaven is opened to humanity. Christian baptism now immerses believers into the very life of the Triune God, making them adopted children of God.This baptism carries a mission: to proclaim good news to the poor, bring light to those in darkness, and freedom to those imprisoned.The Homily concludes by urging believers, especially as Ordinary Time begins, to renew their baptismal commitment and actively live out the mission that flows from it.Listen toThe Heavens Were Opened-------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 3: 13-17First Reading: Isaiah 42: 1-4, 6-7Second Reading: Acts 10: 34-38-------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Baptism of Christ: Italian Painter: Piero della Francesca: 1449
Where Christ Is, There Is Our HomeWhere Christ Is, . . . Today’s Homily on the Feast of the Epiphany explores the manifestation of Christ . . .. . . not only to Israel, but to all nations. Through the journey of the Magi, the Homily reveals God’s universal plan of salvation and the deeply personal invitation each person receives to seek, meet, and honor Christ.The Magi’s response to the star becomes a spiritual model: they step outside the ordinary, look up, and allow themselves to be guided by a light beyond themselves. Seeing the star is not enough . . . they move toward Christ, recognizing that His coming is for them. Their journey reflects the innate human longing for God, a desire placed in every heart that, when followed, leads closer to Christ.. . . There Is Our HomeThe gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh symbolize enduring spiritual virtues . . . charity, prayer, and self-denial . . . virtues acquired along the journey rather than possessed at the outset. In contrast, Herod and Jerusalem represent resistance to grace: agitation without movement, power without surrender.Ultimately, the Epiphany is not merely an ancient story but the ongoing rhythm of Christian life. Like the Magi, believers are drawn week after week to Christ’s presence, where He not only receives their offerings but gives Himself in return, gathering not just some, but all, into His saving light.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Where Christ Is, There Is Our Home--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Adoration of the Magi: Flemish Artist and Painter: Peter Paul Rubens: 1609--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Rubens’ dynamic composition draws all attention toward Christ at the center. Earthly power fades into the background, underscoring the homily’s teaching that the true Jerusalem is not a place, but a Person . . . Jesus Christ.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 2: 1-12First Reading: Isaiah 60:1-6Second Reading: Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6
Finding the Child by Finding the Mother Today’s Homily reflects on the Gospel of Christ’s birth and naming, . . .. . . emphasizing that the Nativity is not a past event but a living, ever-new mystery that renews time itself.The Church proclaims that the birth of Jesus . . . God entering human history. . . stands at the true beginning of every year, making time “full” through Christ. January 1st, the Octave Day of Christmas and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, and that to know the Son is to know the Mother.The Homily further highlights the blessing from the Book of Numbers . . . “May the Lord let his face shine upon you” . . . fulfilled in Christ, whose face first shines upon Mary and then upon all humanity. Shepherds and Magi alike find Jesus by finding His Mother, illustrating their inseparable bond.Jesus comes not for us to take Him home, but to bring us home into God’s family through adoption. Mary, entrusted with the name of Jesus, reveals it to the world, making her the Mother of God, the Church, and all believers. The faithful are invited to begin the year seeking God’s blessing, peace, and grace, confident that Christ . . . Son of God and Son of Mary . . . continues to shine His face upon them in the Eucharist.Listen more toFinding the Child by Finding the Mother------------------------------------------------------Quote from the HomilyTo know the Mother, to find the Mother, is to know and find the Son. This too is the great mystery that the scriptures of these days unfold before us. First it is the shepherds who come, and they find the child by finding His mother. This coming Sunday, we will celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the three magi come, and they will find the child by finding the mother. Know how wonderful this is, this inseparability between the two of them.To know the Son is to know the Mother. To know the Mother is to know the Son. This should not surprise us because the Lord has come. The Lord has come. Born of woman, born of Mary, born of a mother, not simply for us to receive Him. He has come to receive us. Jesus does not come into the world for us to take him home with us. Jesus comes into the world to bring us home with him.------------------------------------------------------Art WorkAdoration: Italian Painter: Cappella Sassetti: 1485------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 2: 16-21First Reading: Numbers 6: 22-27Second Reading: Galatians 4: 4-7
Born in Time, Born into Glory . . . A Christmas Lesson For All of Us Today’s Homily centers on the profound pairing of Christmas Day and the Feast of St. Stephen, . . . . . . highlighting the mystery of Christ’s Incarnation alongside the Church’s first martyr. Christ humbles Himself, laying aside heavenly glory to enter human fragility, while Stephen, in turn, lays aside earthly life to be clothed in heavenly glory. This contrast reveals a single pattern: humble self-giving leads to exaltation.Stephen’s MartyrdomStephen’s martyrdom mirrors Christ’s own Passion . . . not only in rejection and death outside the city, but most strikingly in his prayer of forgiveness for his persecutors. His final words reveal the true mark of life in the Holy Spirit: not power or eloquence, but radical love and trust.The Gospel’s warning about persecution is fulfilled in Stephen, who does not rely on rehearsed words or self-control, but allows the Spirit to speak through him.The Homily emphasizes that martyrdom is not primarily suffering or death, but testimony . . . a witness forged through ordinary, daily faithfulness. Saints are not made by extraordinary moments alone, but by perseverance in fidelity.In Stephen, the Church sees not only the first martyr, but the pattern for all believers: faithfulness today prepares us for whatever witness tomorrow may demand.Listen more toBorn in Time, Born into Glory . . . A Christmas Lesson For All of Us--------------------------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyThis is Jesus Christ, In his Incarnation, He leaves heavenly glory and veils the light of His being in fragile human flesh. And on this day, Stephen, the martyr, rudely stoned, and put to death, lays aside the fragility of his body that he might be vested and robed in the glory of the victorious realm . . .--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work The Martyrdom of St Stephen: Italian Painter: Annibale Carracci: 1603--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Carracci’s painting shows Stephen at the moment of violent death, yet spiritually lifted beyond it. The painting embodies the Homily ’s central contrast: Christ born into time, Stephen born into eternity . . . two “birthdays” revealing the same divine victory.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 10: 17-22First Reading: Acts 6: 8-10; 7: 54-59
The Meaning of Christmas: Sharing Our Humanity, Sharing His DivinityThe Homily reflects on the Prologue of the Gospel of John, . . .. . . proclaiming Jesus as the eternal Word who was with God and is God, through whom all things were made. This Word, existing from the beginning, did not come into being but became flesh in the Incarnation. The Homily links this mystery to the liturgical gesture of mixing water and wine at Mass, symbolizing humanity being united with divinity through Christ, who humbled Himself to share fully in our human condition.This mystery of the Word becoming flesh is presented as the heart of Christmas and of Christian life itself: God became human so that we may become Divine.Christianity is Participation in Divine LifeThe Homily challenges us to apply this truth practically . . . by humility, self-giving, and a willingness to “become less” for the sake of love and relationship. Through a story about two outsiders responding differently to villagers’ fear of a rabbit, the message illustrates that transformation happens only through solidarity and shared experience.Ultimately, Christianity is described not merely as morality or spirituality, but as participation in divine life made possible by God’s radical act of love in the Incarnation.Listen toThe Meaning of Christmas: Sharing Our Humanity, Sharing His Divinity--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Adoration of the Shepherds (cropped): German Painter: Anton Raphael Mengs: 1765
The Hidden Moment That Changed the World The Homily centers on the Annunciation (Luke 1:26–38) as the hidden . . .. . . yet decisive turning point of human history.Though proclaimed quietly to a single listener . . . Mary . . . it is an announcement of universal significance: the Word takes flesh. The Homily emphasizes how God’s greatest act enters the world not through spectacle, but through humility, attentiveness, and consent.An Event Hidden from the World Yet Thunderous with EternityMary is portrayed as the one who is already listening when heaven speaks. Gabriel’s greeting . . . “Hail, full of grace” . . . reveals her true identity, known fully only by God. Troubled but attentive, Mary questions not from doubt but from reverent understanding. When she says, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord,” her obedience allows the ineffable, eternal Word to become incarnate within her.The Homily also highlights the paradox of the Annunciation: an event hidden from the world yet thunderous with eternity, a public salvation accomplished in private obedience.Mary becomes the living “book” in whom the unspeakable Word is written. The Church, contemplating this mystery especially in Advent as it prepares for Christmas, and asks for the grace to imitate her humility, attentiveness, and surrender to God’s will.Listen more toThe Hidden Moment That Changed the World-------------------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyAs the angel completes his message to her, Our Lady says to the angel, behold. Note how remarkable this is!!!Now this is Our Lady speaking to heaven . . . She says, behold and now Our Lady speaks her own truth, her understanding of the truth that heaven has given her.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work The Annunciation.: Netherland Painter: Robert Campin: 1422-------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:This work places the Annunciation within the texture of daily life, emphasizing the “fullness of time” arriving quietly in a domestic setting. It visually expresses the theological claim that God enters history not through power, but through grace-filled obedience.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 1: 26-38First Reading: Isaiah 7: 10-14
Emmanuel: God With Us: Let the King of Glory Enter Today’s Homily centers on the Advent call to welcome the King of Glory . . .. . . Emmanuel, God with us . . . through obedience and trust, rather than self-reliance. Drawing from Matthew’s Gospel and the Psalm proclamation, the homily presents three figures as models of response to God’s invitation.King Ahaz represents the human tendency to solve problems independently, refusing God’s offer of guidance and ultimately falling into bondage. Saint Paul embodies humble submission, identifying himself as a servant whose mission flows entirely from God’s grace. Saint Joseph stands as the ultimate model of obedient faith, listening to God’s word and allowing divine will to direct his life.The Homily culminates in the affirmation that Emmanuel is not distant: Christ remains present among the faithful, especially in the poor, the suffering, and the gathered community. As Advent concludes, believers are invited to examine their attitude . . . self-sufficiency or obedient trust . . . and to welcome God who desires to dwell in their midst.Listen toEmmanuel: God With Us: Let the King of Glory EnterThe Adoration of the Shepherds: Italian Painter: Giorgione: 1510Why was this image selected:The intimate presence of God among ordinary people reflects Emmanuel’s nearness. The painting’s quiet reverence aligns with the homily’s emphasis on God dwelling with us in daily life.
Our Lady’s Promise: I Remain With YouThis Homily weaves together . . .. . . the Visitation (Luke 1:39–45), the mystery of Advent, and the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe, revealing a single, unifying truth: the Lord is always on the way to His people.God does not arrive once and withdraw; He continually comes, drawing near in mercy, joy, and life. This dynamic is first revealed when Mary, bearing Christ within her, hastens to Elizabeth. Though unseen, Christ Himself arrives, and His presence awakens joy, life, and praise. The leap of John the Baptist becomes the first fruit of salvation’s nearness.He Continually ComesThat same pattern unfolds across history, most vividly at Tepeyac in 1531, where Our Lady visits a wounded people and a struggling Church. Through Juan Diego, Mary brings Christ’s joy into barrenness, transforming despair into life. The miracles . . . healing, roses blooming from stone, and the enduring image on the tilma . . . unfold in sequence, culminating in a sign that abides, just as Mary remained with Elizabeth and Christ remains with His Church.Throughout, Mary is revealed as the one through whom Christ comes, not only once, but always . . . into hearts, cultures, and history itself. Where He arrives, life stirs, joy breaks forth, and meaning is restored.Listen more toOur Lady’s Promise: I Remain With You------------------------------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyImagine a greeting so powerful that its words don’t matter. . . The voice of the woman with the joy of salvation growing in her womb speaks in such a tonality that that joy penetrates the life of another.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Virgin of Mercy or Madonna della Misericordia.: Italian Painter: Piero della Francesca: 1462------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:Mary stands sheltering the faithful beneath her mantle, a powerful visual expression of abiding presence. Like the tilma that endures and Mary’s three-month stay with Elizabeth, the painting reflects the promise: I am not going anywhere.
Preparing for the Coming Messiah in Advent: The Fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets Today’s Gospel reveals that Elijah has already come in the person of John the Baptist, . . .. . . though he was not recognized and was rejected, just as Jesus Himself will be.John fulfills Elijah’s mission: preparing hearts for the coming of the Messiah through repentance and reconciliation. Advent, therefore, is not merely waiting, but an active turning of hearts . . . first toward God and then toward one another, especially within families where division and hurt often arise.Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s plan revealed through the Law and the Prophets. Like St. Lucy, believers are called to make a decisive choice for God, rejecting spiritual complacency and committing fully to Christ as they prepare for His coming.Listen to Elijah’s mission. Listen toPreparing for the Coming Messiah in Advent: The Fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Transfiguration: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch: 1872-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected:This masterpiece unites Moses and Elijah with Christ, visually proclaiming Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. It directly mirrors the Gospel context, which follows the Transfiguration and explains Elijah’s true role.
The Sign Humanity Could Not Ask For Today’s Homily unpacks the Gospel’s declaration . . .. . . that Christ’s birth fulfills ancient prophecy, urging believers to move beyond a narrow, sentimental view of the Nativity into its vast theological depth.Isaiah’s prophecy to King Ahaz reveals humanity’s reluctance to hope when confronted with God’s generosity: though invited to ask for a sign, the faithless king refuses. God responds by giving the sign anyway . . . one beyond human imagination . . . the Virgin conceiving Emmanuel, “God with us.”This Promise FulfilledSt. Matthew presents this promise fulfilled not in royal splendor, but in the humble home of Joseph, a carpenter of David’s line. Faced with shattered expectations and personal disappointment, Joseph chooses mercy over judgment, becoming a living sign of God’s way. By welcoming Mary and the child, Joseph receives the divine sign that kings once rejected and becomes the first guardian of salvation’s mystery.The meditation concludes by placing us within the drama of Advent: God still asks the same question . . . What do you hope for? The challenge is not merely to believe, but to hope boldly, trusting that God is present and invites us to ask for great things.What does that really mean and what is God really asking? What do you hope for?Listen more toThe Sign Humanity Could Not Ask For----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Holy Family: Spanish Painter: Bartolomé Esteban Murillo: 1661----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 1: 18-25First Reading: Jeremiah 23: 5-8----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this image selected: Murillo’s intimate depiction of the Holy Family emphasizes domestic humility rather than grandeur. It visually reflects the Homily’s insight that the throne of David has become a carpenter’s house . . . and that this humble dwelling is where God chooses to be “with us.”
When the Storm Comes: The Revealing of the Heart Today’s Advent readings warn against proud self-sufficiency and complacency . . .. . . believing life is secure without ongoing conversion. The Prophet’s image of a proud city brought low echoes Jesus’ teaching that merely calling on the Lord isn’t enough; discipleship requires acting on Christ’s words.Life’s Storms Reveal the True Foundation of Our HeartsJesus’ parable of houses built on rock versus sand shows that life’s storms reveal the true foundation of our hearts: hearing alone is insufficient . . . obedience matters. True spiritual stability comes from living God’s will, not self-reliance or superficial faith.The life of St. John of Damascus illustrates this: in the greatest trial . . . false accusations, loss of reputation, and even loss of his hand . . . he remained faithful and his faith was vindicated. Ultimately, true discipleship, like Mary’s, means surrender to God’s will, building a life on the solid rock of obedience to Christ’s word.Listen more toWhen the Storm Comes: The Revealing of the Heart-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Storm on the Sea of Galilee: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1633Uniquely, this painting was in a Boston Museum for almost 100 years, until 1990. It was stolen that year and remains missing.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 7: 21, 24-27First Reading: Isaiah 26: 1-6
Let it be Done For You According to Your Faith: Seeing Through the Light of Christ Today’s Homily draws on the day’s readings . . . Isaiah’s prophecy, . . .. . . the psalm “The Lord is my light and my salvation,” and Matthew’s account of Jesus healing two blind men . . . to explore the deep spiritual meaning of sight, hearing, and faith.Physical blindness and deafness point to humanity’s deeper moral and spiritual inability to see and hear God. Isaiah shows that the coming of the Lord heals not only physical affliction, but the blindness and deafness of a world clouded by injustice, darkness, and moral confusion.In the Gospel, the two blind men follow Jesus not by sight but by attentive listening. Jesus does not stop for them immediately; instead, they must follow Him into “the house,” symbolizing both the Church on earth and the Father’s house in heaven. Only there does Jesus question their faith and open their eyes. Why that way? Hear more within the Homily.The Homily emphasizes that discipleship begins not with seeing but with hearing, and that true healing requires not only need, but faith in Christ’s goodness and power. Ultimately, in the Church . . . where Christ is present . . . we behold His face and receive the light that dispels our spiritual darkness.Listen to:Let it be Done For You According to Your Faith: Seeing Through the Light of Christ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work The Healing of the Blind Man: French Painter: Nicolas Poussin: 1650Another piece of art from this painter may be found on this website here and here.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this art work selected: The painting depicts Christ giving sight to the blind . . . a perfect visual parallel to the Gospel and the title’s focus on faith-enabled vision.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 9: 27-31First Reading: Isaiah 29: 17-24
Into the Inner Desert: Rediscovering Our Relationship with God During Advent Today’s Gospel reading centers on John the Baptist’s call to repent and be fruitful.John preaches in the desert . . . a place free of distractions . . . where people must face the fundamental question: What is my relationship with God? Advent invites all Christians into this same interior desert, prompting honest self-examination and the courage to change.True repentance requires more than words or ritual; it demands inward transformation and the willingness to leave comfort zones. John challenges the Pharisees and Sadducees by insisting that repentance must bear fruit . . . justice, peace, patience, forgiveness, and compassion. Merely acknowledging sins is not enough; one must produce spiritual fruit that reflects a renewed relationship with God.The Homily also encourages believers during Advent to make a sincere confession, focus on personal conversion rather than others’ faults, and open their hearts to God so they may live more lovingly and be prepared for Christ who is already in their midst.The Kingdom of God is at Hand …What does that really mean?Listen to this Meditation Media.Listen to …Into the Inner Desert: Rediscovering Our Relationship with God During Advent----------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Christ (Fasting) in the Dessert: Russian Painter: Ivan Kramskoi: 1872The painting is sometimes called, Christ in the Wilderness.----------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 3: 1-12First Reading: Isaiah 11: 1-10Second Reading: Romans 15: 4-9
Show Us Your Face, O Lord Today’s Gospel and Homily reflect on Christ’s compassion and mission during Advent.Jesus travels through villages teaching, proclaiming the Kingdom, and healing every disease. Seeing the crowds “like sheep without a shepherd,” He sends His disciples to proclaim the nearness of God’s Kingdom and to heal freely, just as they have freely received.Lord, Show Us Your FaceThe Homily then explores Advent’s longing: “Lord, show us your face and we shall be saved.” This desire runs through Scripture and finds its fulfillment in the nativity, when God literally shows His face in Christ.Isaiah’s prophecies reveal the coming Savior as both shoot from the stump of Jesse and root of Jesse . . . the One who appears in time yet is the eternal source of all life. Only such a divine Savior can heal humanity’s deepest wound: separation from God.Christ’s ministry continues this revelation . . . He shows God’s face through mercy, healing, and compassion. The disciples, having been generously formed and blessed, are sent to extend that same generosity to the world.Advent, therefore, is not passive waiting but active mission: receiving Christ, becoming Christlike, and bringing His healing and hope to those who are lost.Listen to:Show Us Your Face, O Lord----------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkAdoration of the Shepherds: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst: 1622Notice the use of light in the painting. He was known as a painter that utilized light in his paintings. Another piece of art from this painter may be found on the QoAH website .----------------------------------------------------------------Why was this art work selected: The newborn Christ’s face radiates light, echoing the longing to “see His face” and be saved.----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 9: 35–10: 1, 5-8First Reading: Isaiah 30: 19-21, 23-26
Reading the Signs of the Kingdom Today's Gospel passage uses the fig tree’s budding branches . . .. . . as a sign that summer is near, just as unfolding events reveal the nearness of God’s Kingdom. The reflection connects this to Daniel chapter 7, where turbulent waters . . . symbols of chaotic evil . . . give rise to four beasts representing earthly kingdoms that rise and fall.In contrast, the “Ancient One” and the “Son of Man” receive everlasting dominion. The Homily challenges us to recognize which kingdom they give their loyalty to: the passing kingdoms of wealth, honor, or worldly power, or the eternal Kingdom of Christ.Just as we discern signs in nature, we are called to discern the signs of the times, especially as Advent begins, focusing our lives on the coming reign of Christ. Mary is invoked to help us read these signs and remain faithful to the eternal Kingdom.Hear more within this Meditation.Reading the Signs of the Kingdom--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Angelus or The Praying Farmers: French Painter: Jean-François Millet: c. 1857 The painting depicts two farmers bowing in a field over a basket of potatoes to say a prayer, the Angelus.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why was this art work selected: A quiet moment of prayer in the fields suggests attentiveness to divine signs in daily life.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 21: 29-33First Reading: Daniel 7: 2-14
The Road to Mount Zion: Walking Toward God’s Peace The Gospel recounts Jesus’ warning that the coming of the Son of Man will be sudden, . . .. . . just as the flood came unexpectedly in the days of Noah. Therefore, believers must remain spiritually awake and prepared at all times.The Homily connects this vigilance to the Advent call for peace and reconciliation. Reflecting on the United Nations monument inspired by Isaiah’s prophecy . . . “They shall beat their swords into plowshares” . . . the Homily notes that true peace does not come from political power or military strength but from turning toward God, the God of Jacob.Despite global efforts, . . .. . . wars persist, reminding us that peace must begin within each person.During Advent, Christians are invited to “beat their swords into plowshares” by reconciling with those who have hurt them. The greatness of a Christian lies in seeking peace, healing relationships, and living each day as though the Lord is coming in every moment.Paul’s call to “wake from sleep” emphasizes living daily life in holiness, attentiveness, and readiness. Advent begins not with the beginning of time but with the end in view . . . the ultimate fulfillment when God will be all in all and peace will reign. The Church becomes the place where this peace begins as believers set aside hostility and walk together toward God.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Road to Mount Zion: Walking Toward God’s Peace-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Journey of the Magi: French Painter: James Tissot: 1894Part of the online collection of the Brooklyn Museum. Why was this panting selected for this post: A visual metaphor for pilgrimage toward God, paralleling Isaiah’s call to “go up to the mountain of the Lord.”-------------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 24: 37-44First Reading: Isaiah 2: 1-5Second Reading: Romans 13: 11-14
The Quiet Lord Who Comes to Save, Not to SeizeToday’s Homily reflects on the Gospel warning to remain spiritually alert, . . .. . . not numbed by excess or overwhelmed by daily anxieties. It connects Jesus’ teaching to the apocalyptic visions in Daniel, where chaotic “beasts” rise from storm-tossed seas . . . symbols of destructive powers, hardships, and the unruly forces of history and human life.The preacher emphasizes that these images are not abstract: evil is real, suffering is real, and overwhelming pressures . . . whether political, cultural, personal, or emotional . . . threaten faith and hope. Yet above the chaos stands God, who alone grants true kingship and whose rule is not seized through force but given through goodness. Daniel’s vision climaxes with “one like a Son of Man,” revealing true humanity and God’s definitive victory over evil.Jesus Warns the Final Day Will Come Upon EveryoneJesus warns His disciples that the final day will come upon everyone, so they must stay vigilant . . . not only against persecution, but also against the drowning flood of ordinary worries. Prayer strengthens believers to stand courageously before the Son of Man. In the Eucharist, Christ gives Himself gently . . . not as a dominating power, but as a saving Lord whose goodness endures when all evil passes away.The Homily concludes by urging confidence, hope, and fidelity: goodness matters, evil will not last, and Christ prepares His people even now to meet Him in glory.Listen to:The Quiet Lord Who Comes to Save, Not to Seize----------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Adoration of the Mystic Lamb: Dutch Painter: Jan Van Eyck: 1432----------------------------------------------------------Why was this art work selected: The Lamb symbolizes Christ who saves through self-giving rather than domination, perfectly matching the Homily’s contrast between the world’s beasts and Christ’s gentle reign.----------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 21: 34-36First Reading: Daniel 7: 15-27
The King We Did Not Expect, but the King We Need The Gospel recounts Jesus on the cross being mocked . . .. . . by rulers, soldiers, and one of the criminals, while the other criminal acknowledges Jesus’ innocence and asks to be remembered in His kingdom. Jesus responds with the promise of paradise.Christ the KingThe Homily reflects on the Feast of Christ the King, instituted in 1925 to counter rising secularism and remind the world that true authority belongs to God. While earthly kings are associated with power and honor, Christ’s kingship is revealed paradoxically through His suffering on the cross. Unlike Adam, who misused his authority through disobedience under a tree, Jesus restores humanity through obedience on the cross, offering His life for His subjects.The message emphasizes that if Christ is truly King of our lives, He must influence every part of us . . . our decisions, actions, words, and daily living . . . not just selective areas or limited moments like Sundays. As the liturgical year ends, the faithful are invited to reflect on whether they have allowed Christ to reign fully in their hearts, lives, and families, asking God for the grace to let Christ transform and lead them completely.Listen to this Meditation Media: Listen to:The King We Did Not Expect, but the King We Need------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 23: 35-43First Reading: 2 Samuel 5: 1-3Second Reading: Colossians 1: 12-20------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Christ the King: American Artist: Charles Willson Peale: between 1920s and 1950s
No Mold for Holiness: The Unique Path of Every Saint Today’s Gospel reflection, centered on the Beatitudes, . . .. . . highlights the universal call to holiness and the unity of the three “churches”: the Church Militant (pilgrim believers on earth), the Church Penitent (souls being purified), and the Church Triumphant (saints in heaven).The Homily emphasizes that sainthood is not something we wait for after death, but something we are called to pursue now through our daily lives. Each person reflects Christ uniquely . . . there is no single “mold” for holiness. Using examples like St. André Bessette, who served humbly as a doorkeeper, and Blessed Carlo Acutis, who used technology to evangelize, the message encourages the faithful to mirror Christ in their own circumstances.Holiness is expressed through living the Beatitudes, displaying the fruits of the Spirit, and manifesting God’s love, peace, mercy, and goodness in ordinary life. The faithful are invited to see themselves already on the journey toward the communion enjoyed by the saints, and to ask: How am I reflecting Christ today?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:No Mold for Holiness: The Unique Path of Every Saint---------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 5: 1-12First Reading: Revelation 7: 2-4, 9-14Second Reading: 1 John 3: 1-3---------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkL’Innocence,: French Artist and Painter: William-Adolphe Bouguereau: 1893
Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and SaintsI was hungry. You fed me thirsty. You gave me to drink. I was alone, and you were with me. I was naked and you clothed me. This marvelously simple description of the greatness of Christian life.That ability, not so much to see Jesus in each other as to see others as Jesus sees them.Today’s Gospel draws from Matthew’s teaching on the Final Judgment, . . .. . . where Jesus separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats, praising those who cared for “the least of His brothers.”The Homily then focuses on Saint Martin of Tours, a soldier-turned-bishop whose famous act of charity . . . cutting his cloak to clothe a beggar . . . reveals the heart of the Gospel: seeing others as Christ sees them and responding with compassion. Martin’s life of disciplined holiness, service, and unwavering focus on Christ is presented as a model of Christian discipleship.Seeing Others as Christ Sees ThemThe Homily also highlights two American military chaplains whose causes for sainthood are advancing: Father Vincent Capodanno, a Marine chaplain killed in Vietnam after repeatedly risking his life to save wounded soldiers, and Father Emil Kapaun, a Korean War chaplain known for heroic sacrifice, spiritual strength, and care for fellow prisoners of war. Each embodies Christlike service . . . feeding the hungry, comforting the suffering, and valuing every human life.On Veterans Day, the Homily emphasizes that the vocation of a soldier, when lived with compassion and courage, mirrors the Gospel call to serve others. As Christ nourishes and strengthens us in the Eucharist, we are sent forth to care for the hungry, the thirsty, and the vulnerable in our own lives, following the example of these remarkable witnesses.Listen to:Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and Saints---------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Seeing Others as Christ Sees: The Gospel Call Revealed in Soldiers and Saints : AI and Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team: 2025
Meditations on the Mysteries of the Rosary: Glorious MysteriesOne Who Descended So All Might Ascend: A Theology of the Glorious Mysteries This conference initially explores the deep unity and movement . . .. . . within the original fifteen mysteries of the Rosary . . . Joyful, Sorrowful, and Glorious . . . and shows how they mirror the central pattern of the Creed: Incarnation → Passion → Resurrection and Glory.The conference highlights how only one . . . Christ . . . descends from heaven, taking on our humanity, and then ascends again carrying that humanity into glory. Mary’s Assumption confirms that where Christ has gone, we are meant to follow.The Time Scale of the MysteriesThe meditation considers the time scale of the mysteries:• The Joyful Mysteries span about twelve years;• The Glorious Mysteries unfold across roughly 50 days followed by many years;• And, The Sorrowful Mysteries, in stark contrast, take place within a single intense day.The conference also gives attention to the public versus private character of the mysteries: Christ’s passion is witnessed by thousands, whereas the resurrection and ascension are revealed only to a small circle of disciples. Jesus does not showcase His triumph; instead, He entrusts the proclamation of His resurrection to a handful who did not even witness the moment itself.The reflection then expands the First Glorious Mystery, urging a broader meditation on the many appearances of the risen Christ . . . from Mary Magdalene to the disciples on the road to Emmaus—emphasizing how His glorified humanity is the true pattern for our own.The Glorious MysteriesThe Ascension is presented as Christ’s heavenly enthronement, witnessed only by His disciples. It is inseparable from the Great Commission, in which Jesus commands this small, fragile group to evangelize the nations, promising His abiding presence and the coming of the Holy Spirit.The Third Glorious Mystery, Pentecost, reveals the Church’s true beginning. The Holy Spirit descends not randomly, but upon the Church gathered on a Sunday, in prayer, in the place of the Eucharist, with Mary. Pentecost mirrors the Incarnation: as the Spirit once formed Christ’s physical body in Mary, He now forms Christ’s mystical body, the Church.The disciples step out into the world . . . and the world is already waiting, drawn by the Spirit. Peter’s preaching leads to the conversion of more than three thousand, marking the start of the Church’s mission to the nations.Overall, the conference shows how the Glorious Mysteries reveal Christ’s victory, the exaltation of our humanity, the birth of the Church, and the continuation of the same divine movement from Incarnation to Redemption to Glory.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toMeditations on the Mysteries of the Rosary: Glorious Mysteries-------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkMadonna of the Rosary: Spanish artist: Esteban Murillo: 1650
As in the Days of Noah: Living Prepared in Ordinary Times Jesus warns his disciples that the coming of the Son of Man will be sudden and unexpected, . . .. . . just as in the days of Noah and Lot, when people were absorbed in ordinary activities and unprepared for God’s intervention. Jesus urges readiness, detachment from worldly attachments, and a willingness to surrender one’s life to God.As the liturgical year nears its end, the Church’s readings focus on the end times . . . not to inspire fear, but to remind believers that life is a journey toward God. The Homily explains that preparing for Christ’s coming involves two essential steps: acknowledging the existence of God and allowing God to influence one’s life.The first reading from Wisdom warns against admiring creation without recognizing the Creator. True wisdom is to see beauty in the world and let it lead us to God.What Does Being Ready MeanThe Gospel adds that being ready means letting God shape our daily lives, rather than resisting His influence. Ordinary activities become spiritually empty when God is excluded from them. Preparation involves letting God’s will challenge and transform us, trusting Him even in moments of doubt or suffering. Genuine trust requires a full surrender of the heart . . . not holding back parts of our lives from God.The Homily concludes with an invitation to affirm love for Jesus from the heart and to let this love guide all actions and decisions.Listen to this Meditation Media: Listen to:As in the Days of Noah: Living Prepared in Ordinary Times-----------------------------------------Art WorkNoah and His Ark: American Artist: Charles Willson Peale: 1819Noah kneels in the foreground surrounded by family and creatures.-----------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 17: 26-37First Reading: Wisdom 13: 1-9
Mary’s Prayer and Ours: How the Dawn of Salvation Breaks Into the WorldThe Gospel presents Jesus’ parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge . . .. . . as a lesson on the necessity of persevering in prayer. Even a corrupt judge responds to persistence . . . so how much more will God, who loves His people, answer those who cry out to Him with faith. Jesus warns that many give up too quickly, mistaking God’s “not yet” for “no,” when persistent prayer actually purifies the heart and prepares the soul to receive what God desires to give.When the Night was Half SpentThe Homily then turns to the First Reading from the Book of Wisdom, a text the Church connects to the mystery of Christmas. It describes the moment “when the night was half spent” and the “all-powerful Word leaped down from heaven,” imagery the Church recognizes as a prophetic anticipation of the Incarnation. This dramatic vision portrays Christ as a mighty Redeemer who breaks the darkness of sin and restores creation.The Homily also reflects on humanity’s long night of spiritual darkness from Adam and Eve onward, during which the world groaned for salvation. Throughout history God’s people cried out like the widow seeking justice. Their prayers . . . Abraham’s, David’s, the prophets’ . . . reach their fullness when Mary, conceived without sin, adds her own pure prayer. Her plea becomes the hinge of history, and in response, God sends His Son, quietly and humbly, in her womb.The Homily further emphasizes that Mary continues to pray with and for the faithful. In this shrine dedicated to her, no one prays alone; her intercession elevates and perfects our petitions. Just as the Word once leapt from heaven in the Incarnation, He continues to do so at every Mass . . . descending upon the altar in the Eucharist for our salvation. In this mystery we recognize that we are no longer dwellers of a doomed land but witnesses of the dawn brought by Christ, the light of the world.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Mary’s Prayer and Ours: How the Dawn of Salvation Breaks Into the World-------------------------------------------------------------------View of the Sun from Long Island, NY, not too far from the Shrine.-------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 18: 1-8First Reading: Wisdom 18: 14-16; 19: 6-9
The Kingdom Is Already Here: Responding to God’s Presence Today Jesus teaches that the Kingdom of God is not something that arrives with visible signs . . .. . . because it is already present among us. The Gospel warns against chasing dramatic predictions about the end times or following voices that claim secret knowledge about God’s plans. Christ emphasizes that His final coming will be unmistakable and needs no advance decoding, but before that He Himself must be rejected by the present generation.The Homily reflects on how people today, like in every era, are tempted to run after loud, strident voices . . . political, cultural, or spiritual . . . that promise clarity or insight yet draw them away from the Gospel. True wisdom, the preacher notes, is quiet, penetrating, rooted in charity, and grounded in the Church’s authentic teaching.The Kingdom of God Demands a Response NowThe Kingdom of God demands a response now, not later. Christ is already present . . . especially in the Eucharist . . . even when His presence is not visible to the human eye. The real question is not when the Kingdom will come, but how each person responds to God’s presence today. If Christians seek first the Kingdom, everything else will fall into its proper place; but if they focus on lesser things first, they risk missing the Kingdom altogether.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Kingdom Is Already Here: Responding to God’s Presence Today----------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve’s Departure: AI and Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team: 2025This website showcases masterpieces from centuries of art. Occasionally; the Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team enhances the collection with Artificial Intelligence Art . . . a modern approach to creating art using AI technology. This particular piece portrays the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve’s departure. In the scene, the Sun rises in the East, symbolizing God’s continued guidance for humanity.----------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 17: 20-25First Reading: Wisdom 7: 22–8:1 ...
Settle Accounts While There’s Time: St. Paul’s Honesty and Christ’s Deliverance Today’s Homily reflects on two Scripture passages . . .. . . St. Paul’s candid confession of his inner struggle (Romans) and Jesus’ call to read the signs of the times (Luke).St. Paul admits that although he desires to do good, he often fails, revealing the inner conflict between grace and the lingering effects of sin. His honesty shows that even the greatest saints struggle internally, reminding us that the Christian life is not a self-improvement project but a reliance on Christ, who alone delivers us from our divided selves.The Homily then helps us to connect this with Jesus’ teaching about interpreting signs. People easily read the weather or social cues yet fail to recognize God’s movements in their own lives. Jesus urges His listeners to discern the spiritual signs around them and respond.Discern the Spiritual SignsJesus warns that our lives are moving toward a final judgment, likening it to walking with an adversary toward a magistrate. Therefore, we must “settle accounts” now through repentance, charity, and works of mercy.The Homily also touches on the Church’s understanding of purgatory . . . where remaining spiritual debts are purified . . . and highlights the importance of praying for the dead.Ultimately, both readings invite believers to face their own struggles honestly, remain attentive to God’s grace, and live now in a way that prepares them for their final meeting with the Lord.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Settle Accounts While There’s Time: St. Paul’s Honesty and Christ’s Deliverance--------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Tribute Money: Flemish Artist and Painter: Anthony van Dyck: 1623--------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 12: 54-59First Reading: Romans 7: 18-25
Meditations on the Mysteries of the RosaryThe Sorrowful MysteriesWhere Wisdom Dwells: Suffering, Redemption, and the Sorrowful Mysteries This conference explores the deep meaning of the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary, . . .. . . emphasizing that the heart of these mysteries is The Cross of Christ, the fullest revelation of God’s unconditional, unmerited love for humanity. The conference explains that while the Rosary traditionally seemed to bypass the public ministry of Jesus, the early Church understood His ministry as presupposed in the proclamation of His passion, death, and resurrection . . . the core of apostolic preaching.The Cross of ChristThe conference highlights that the cross exposes both the radical depth of human sin (understood as love rejected) and the redemptive power of suffering when united with Christ. Drawing on St. Louis de Montfort and Scripture, the conference shows that suffering without Christ is destructive, but suffering with Christ becomes a path to holiness, hope, and resurrection.Each of the five Sorrowful Mysteries is then examined:1. Agony in the Garden: Jesus’ anguish reveals the weight of His mission and perfect obedience. The disciples’ betrayal and abandonment invite us to stay spiritually awake, embrace suffering with Christ, and cultivate contrition.2. Scourging at the Pillar: This mystery summarizes the rejection of Jesus—by His people, His closest followers, the crowds, and His executioners—mirroring humanity’s own tendency to refuse God’s love.3. Crowning with Thorns: The mock coronation exposes our inclination to choose worldly “kings” over Christ. Mary’s presence urges repentance and conversion.4. Carrying of the Cross: Our attitude toward our personal crosses reveals our discipleship. With Christ, the cross becomes a treasure, a sign of victory, and our lifelong standard.5. Crucifixion: At the foot of the cross, Mary stands united with Jesus, witnessing the reversal of the Fall . . . where Adam grasped the fruit of a tree, Christ now gives Himself as the true fruit that brings life.The conference concludes by reaffirming that the Sorrowful Mysteries draw us into the heart of God’s love and the mystery of redemption accomplished through the cross.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toWhere Wisdom Dwells: Suffering, Redemption, and the Sorrowful Mysteries---------------------------------------------------------Art Work Madonna of the Rosary: Spanish artist: Esteban Murillo: 1650
No More Excuses: Accepting God’s Invitation to the Eternal Banquet In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells the parable of the Great Banquet, . . .where invited guests offer excuses . . . work, property, and relationships . . . to avoid attending the feast. Their refusal represents how worldly concerns can distract us from God’s invitation to eternal life. The master then opens his banquet to the poor and outcast, symbolizing God’s inclusive call to all who are willing to respond.The Homily connects this Gospel to St. Paul’s teaching on the Body of Christ: every member has a unique gift meant to serve and build the unity of the Church, not for personal pride or division. When we neglect our role or elevate worldly pursuits . . . success, possessions, or relationships . . . above God, we disrupt both community and communion with Him.We are reminded that at every Mass, we are invited to the Lord’s banquet. The question is whether we will accept His invitation to eternal life or let passing concerns keep us away. The faithful are urged to use their gifts in love, serve one another, and prioritize the eternal over the temporary.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:No More Excuses: Accepting God’s Invitation to the Eternal Banquet----------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkRestored mural painting by the Italian Renaissance Artist Leonardo da Vinci, dated to c. 1495–1498.The painting represents the scene of the Last Supper of Jesus with the Twelve Apostles, as it is told in the Gospel of John. ----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 14: 15-24First Reading: Romans 12: 5-16
Jesus Carrying the Fallen Home: Recovering the Divine Image Within Today’s Homily examines Luke’s parables of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin, . . .. . . traditionally understood as images of God’s mercy toward individual sinners. However, the Homily recalls the early Church Fathers’ broader view: that these parables describe God’s saving action toward all humanity . . . the whole human race as the “lost sheep” and “lost coin.”Christ, the Good Shepherd, leaves heaven to rescue fallen humanity, lifting it upon His shoulders through the Cross and carrying it home in the Resurrection. Yet salvation is not passive . . . grace strengthens sinners to repent and cooperate with redemption. Those who respond actively to grace and strive to restore the divine image within themselves bring great joy to heaven.Humanity made in God’s Image but Disfigured by SinThe parable of the woman and the lost coin deepens this image: the coin bears the image of the King, symbolizing humanity made in God’s image but disfigured by sin. The woman’s lamp represents Christ, the light of the Incarnation, illuminating and searching the “house” of the human soul. True repentance, then, is an interior cleansing—overturning what hides God’s image until it shines again.Finally, as November continues . . . the Church’s month of prayer for the departed . . . the Homily connects this teaching to the work of mercy in praying for souls in purgatory. Just as Christ carries fallen humanity, we carry our departed loved ones by prayer, helping them journey toward full union with God. This act renews the divine image in us as well, joining us to Christ’s redemptive mission and the joy of heaven.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Carrying the Fallen Home: Recovering the Divine Image WithinThe Parable of the Lost Sheep: William George Rich: late 1800sReturn to Meditation Media Gospel Reading: Luke 15:1-10First Reading: Romans 14:7-12
The Fire of Christ’s Heart: Surrendering to Grace or to the World Today’s Homily reflects on a challenging Gospel passage . . .. . . where Jesus says He came not to bring peace but division. The Homily also invites us to linger with difficult Scriptures rather than skip to “favorite parts,” because they reveal essential truths about salvation.St. Paul reminds believers that although Christ has already won victory over sin, we must still freely choose to surrender to God’s grace instead of giving in to old habits, emotions, and worldly desires.We Must Still Freely Choose to Surrender to God’s GraceJesus speaks with deep urgency and longing for our salvation, revealing His burning desire to complete His saving mission on the Cross. True peace is not simply avoiding conflict or leaving things as they are; rather, Jesus brings a necessary division between the old life of sin and the new life of grace. Choosing the Kingdom means leaving behind “business as usual,” even when that causes tension within ourselves, our families, or society.Ultimately, life presents only two paths: God’s way or the way that leads to emptiness, shame, and death. The Lord calls us to choose the way of life, to surrender to grace, and to walk with Him . . . who gives us strength in the Eucharist . . . to become truly new and free in Him.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Fire of Christ’s Heart: Surrendering to Grace or to the World-------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkSacred Heart of Jesus: The Shrine of Our Lady of the Island
A Season of Mercy: Humble Prayer and the Gift of IndulgencesToday’s Homily reflects on what it means to pray in a way that God truly hears us.The readings remind us that God has no favorites, yet He shows special attention to the poor and humble because all human beings are, at our core, spiritually poor and in need of mercy. Jesus’ parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector reveal the danger of self-righteousness: when we come before God convinced of our own goodness, we close ourselves off from grace. True prayer begins with humility, honesty, and recognition of our need for God’s mercy . . . like the tax collector who simply prayed, “Have mercy on me, a sinner.”Have Mercy On MeThe Homily then connects this lesson to the Church’s November focus on praying for the dead. Sin not only offends God but causes harm that must be repaired . . . either in this life through penance or in purgatory. The Church, in her mercy, offers special indulgences in the first eight days of November to help souls in purgatory, especially through cemetery visits, prayer, sacramental confession, and Communion.The Shrine’s annual Novena for the Faithful Departed is also highlighted as a powerful opportunity to assist loved ones. Ultimately, the message urges humility, repentance, and charitable prayer for the deceased, trusting in God’s abundant mercy.----------------------------------------------------------Art WorkAll Souls Day: French Painter: Jules Bastien-Lepage: 1882----------------------------------------------------------The Homily references a handout explaining plenary indulgences. See the webste link.
Memento Mori: Holding Onto What Matters Most in Life and DeathToday’s Homily, on All Souls‘ Day, . . .. . . tells the story of a grieving family mourning their only daughter. When the priest arrives, people expect answers and consolation . . . but instead, he sits at the coffin and weeps with them. His tears silently communicate that death, pain, and loss are real, and sometimes there are no words . . . only presence and love.Memento MoriThe message extends to all who mourn: the Church stands with us in grief and points us to Christ, who also wept for His friend Lazarus. Jesus shares in our suffering, prays with us, and leads us to eternal life. The reading reminds us that nothing . . . not even death . . . can separate us from God’s love and that we are created for eternal glory.We are encouraged to remember death, to hold onto what truly matters . . . Christ . . . and to live well, knowing our time on earth is limited. Commemorating the dead comforts us, honors them, and reminds us that one day we too will be prayed for. May the souls of the departed rest in peaceListen to this Meditation Media: Listen to:Memento Mori: Holding Onto What Matters Most in Life and Death-------------------------------------------------------------Memento Mori . . .. . . is a Latin phrase that means:“Remember that you will die.”It is a spiritual reminder used throughout Christian history . . . especially by monks and saints . . . to keep life in perspective. The point is not to inspire fear, but to encourage:• humility• living with purpose• focusing on what truly matters (our soul and love of God)• readiness to meet the LordIn other words, Memento Mori invites us to live well by remembering that earthly life is temporary and eternal life is our true destination.-------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkAll Souls’ Day: Czech Painter: Jakub Schikaneder: 1888
Heart Speaks to Heart: The Love of Christ in the EucharistToday’s Homily centers on St. Paul’s teaching that to truly know God’s love, . . .. . . one must be rooted and grounded in it . . . not merely observing from a distance but living within it. The Homily then turns to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, whose mystical experiences of Christ’s Sacred Heart revealed the depth of His love and sorrow at being loved so little in return.Through her, Jesus emphasized that devotion to His Heart is inseparable from devotion to His Eucharistic Presence. He lamented the neglect and indifference shown toward the Blessed Sacrament, even by those consecrated to Him, and called for reparation through time spent with Him in prayer and adoration.Heart Speaking to HeartFrom her quiet convent, this message gave rise to practices such as the First Friday devotion, Holy Hours of Reparation, and the simple yet profound habit of “visiting the Lord” in the tabernacle. The reflection concludes that true devotion to the Sacred Heart is not symbolic or sentimental, but an active, personal engagement . . . heart speaking to heart . . . in which Christ’s love calls to the depths of our own hearts.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Heart Speaks to Heart: The Love of Christ in the Eucharist----------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist the Savior with the Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Juan de Juanes: 1545 – 1550This oil-based painting on wood is one of three parts. This part shows Our Lord holding the Eucharist and Chalice
Doing Something for God: The Missionary Call of Every Christian Today’s Homily for the Feast of St. Luke the Evangelist . . .. . . reminds us that, like the 72 disciples Jesus sent out, we are all called to be missionaries. This missionary call doesn’t necessarily mean traveling abroad . . . it begins in our own homes and communities.Faith and MissionThe Homily illustrates this by comparing evangelization to talking about a favorite sport: we naturally speak about what we love. If we truly love Jesus, we should talk about Him with our family and friends and show His presence through our actions.Jesus sends His disciples in pairs, highlighting that faith is lived in community, not isolation. As followers of Christ, we are called to bring peace wherever we go and to represent God in our words and deeds.Listen to this Meditation Media: Listen to:Doing Something for God: The Missionary Call of Every Christian-----------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work The Good Shepherd: German Painter: Bernhard Plockhorst: (Lived) 1825-1907
Holding Up the Hands of Faith Today’s Homily centers on the theme of persistence in prayer and faith as a mission to be passed on.The Homily begins by contrasting today’s culture of instant gratification with the patient perseverance required in prayer. The first reading from Exodus illustrates this through Moses, whose raised hands during battle symbolize steadfast prayer and dependence on God. When his strength fails, Aaron and Hur support him . . . showing that prayer often needs the help and faith of others.Moses’ intercession prefigures Christ’s outstretched arms on the Cross, interceding for humanity. The second reading reminds believers, as Paul told Timothy, to “keep the faith” and pass it on . . . faith handed down like a relay baton from one generation to the next.On Mission Sunday, the Church calls every Christian to share and sustain that faith, not only through ordained ministry but also within families and communities.The Gospel challenges us to remain faithful and persistent in prayer so that, when Christ returns, He may still find faith alive on earth. Each believer is invited to ask: Will God find faith in me, in my family, and in my world?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Holding Up the Hands of Faith--------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Moses, Aaron and Hur: Alexander Heubel: 1837--------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 1-9First Reading: 2 Timothy 4: 10-17
As we spend these weeks reflecting on The Mysteries of the Rosary, it is helpful to begin with something so familiar that we rarely stop to ponder it . . . the very names of the sets of mysteries themselves. Each conference will center on these sacred mysteries, inviting us to notice how the Church, in her wisdom, presents them to us in a particular and meaningful way.Join us for three Conferences offering prayerful reflection and fresh insights into The Mysteries of the Rosary, deepening our understanding of this treasured devotion.-------------------------------------------------------------------Meditations on the Mysteries of the RosaryThe Joyful Mysteries: The Heartbeat of the RosaryAs we reflect over these three conferences . . . three weeks . . . on The Mysteries of the Rosary, it’s important to begin with something obvious that we seldom simply pause and consider in itself, and that is the names of the sets of mysteries. Today we are focusing on the Joyful Mysteries, and it’s important to recognize that in giving these five mysteries, this particular name as a set, the Catholic tradition is presenting them to us in a certain way.The Joyful Mysteries remind us that our faith begins with joy . . . the joy that the Savior has come. At the heart of the Rosary is the Hail Mary, not a prayer written by man, but a heavenly greeting that began salvation history: “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.” Every mystery rests on this divine message.The Rosary starts with The Mystery of the Annunciation . . . the Incarnation . . . the moment the Word became flesh in Mary’s womb . . . containing within it all of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.When We ray the Rosary, We do so with MaryWhen we pray the Rosary, we do so with Mary, who helps us understand and treasure the mysteries of her Son. Her humility in the Annunciation leads to charity in the Visitation, where she “sets out in haste” to serve Elizabeth. There, joy overflows: the unborn John the Baptist leaps, Elizabeth rejoices, and Mary sings her Magnificat, the Church’s first hymn of praise. These mysteries invite us to share Mary’s joy, humility, and love as we draw closer to Jesus through her.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toThe Joyful Mysteries: The Heartbeat of the Rosary-------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Madonna of the Rosary: Spanish artist: Esteban Murillo: 1650
When the Heart and Mind Agree: Finding Peace in Christ The prophet Joel calls the priests and people to repentance and fasting, . . .. . . warning that “the Day of the Lord” will bring judgment for those who remain unconverted but salvation for those who turn back to God with sincere hearts. True conversion means harmony between the heart and the mind . . . when our thoughts and desires are aligned with God’s truth.Jesus illustrates this in the Gospel by confronting the Pharisees, who accuse Him of casting out demons by the power of the devil. Their hearts recognize His goodness, yet their minds reject Him out of pride and deceit, revealing an inner division. Jesus teaches that a “house divided against itself cannot stand” and warns that a heart cleansed of evil must be filled with God’s grace, or else greater evils will return.The Homily concludes with an invitation to examine our own hearts: Are we filled with the Spirit of God or with division? True conversion brings harmony within us and, through us, harmony to our families, Church, and world. Only Christ, who is Truth itself, can bring this lasting peace and unity.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:When the Heart and Mind Agree: Finding Peace in Christ----------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist And The Rich Young Ruler (cropped): German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1899----------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 11: 15-26First Reading: Joel 1: 13-15; 2: 1-2
The God Who Refuses to Be Narrow: Jonah, the Samaritan, and the Boundless Mercy of Christ by Ad Jesum per Mariam
Your Faith Has Saved You: The Power of Encountering Jesus Today’s Homily reflects on the Gospel of the ten lepers and the Samaritan . . .. . . who returned to thank Jesus. Building on last week’s theme, “Lord, increase our faith,” it emphasizes that true faith is not about quantity but about a living, personal relationship with Christ.Blessings and Answered Prayers are not Ends in ThemselvesThe lepers shared suffering represents our shared human weakness and need for God’s mercy. Only one, the Samaritan, moves beyond gratitude to a deeper encounter with Jesus . . . he no longer stands at a distance but falls at His feet. The message is that blessings and answered prayers are not ends in themselves; they are meant to lead us to a real encounter with Christ and transformation in Him.True salvation comes not merely from receiving God’s gifts but from drawing near to Him in faith, gratitude, and love. We are called to let our faith move us to mercy, forgiveness, and love for one another, allowing Christ to shape our lives.Listen to this Meditation Media: Listen to:Your Faith Has Saved You: The Power of Encountering Jesus-------------------------------------------------------------Art Work Jesus Christ: German Artist and Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1894Oil painting currently resides in The Riverside Church, New York City.----------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 17: 11-19First Reading: 2 Kings 5: 14-17Second Reading: 2 Timothy 2: 8-13
Praying with Mary: The Power and Mystery of the Rosary The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary . . . . . . originated in 1571 after the miraculous Christian victory at the Battle of Lepanto, when the faithful, at the Pope’s request, prayed the Rosary for protection against the Ottoman Empire. This triumph was attributed to Mary’s intercession, earning her the title “Help of Christians.”The Rosary is not merely as a Marian prayer, but as a prayer to Jesus through Mary . . . a contemplation of Christ’s life, death, and glory, with Mary as our guide. The Homily explains three “crownings” of Jesus reflected in the Rosary:1. The Crown of Grace – the Incarnation, God’s gift of salvation.2. The Crown of Thorns – Christ’s suffering and redemptive death.3. The Crown of Glory – Christ’s triumph in heaven.Mary, too, receives her own three crowns:1. The Crown of Excellence – her purity and virtue.2. The Crown of Goodness – her maternal help and compassion.3. The Crown of Love – her perfect relationship with God.Finally, those devoted to Mary receive spiritual crowns:• The Crown of Holiness, gained through imitation of Mary’s virtues.• The Crown of a Peaceful Death, aided by her intercession.• The Crown of Glory in Heaven, the eternal reward of the faithful.The Rosary is presented as a spiritual weapon, a summary of the Gospel, and a path to peace and salvation through union with Jesus and Mary.Listen to:Praying with Mary: The Power and Mystery of the Rosary------------------------------------------------------------------------Art Work One of Several Our Lady of Victory Statues at the OLV Basilica and National Shrine, Buffalo, NY, 1926 The white nine feet version on top of the main altar (not shown), which is made of marble, was blessed by Pope Pius XI prior to its shipment to NY.
Lord, Increase Our Faith: The Power of a Mustard Seed At the start of Mass, the congregation says “Amen” to the opening prayer, asking for God’s mercy . . .. . . mercy that both pardons what conscience dreads and grants blessings too great to ask for. The Homily reflects on this prayer, connecting it to the Gospel where the disciples ask Jesus, “Lord, increase our faith.”Jesus’ response and parable about faith the size of a mustard seed teaches that even a small amount of faith can accomplish great things if it is lived out . . . not by instantly fulfilling our desires, but by learning to trust God’s timing and will. Faith grows through use, through daily acts of trust and service.The Homily emphasizes that belief is not just about ideas about God but a living trust in God. Each believer is called to say, “I believe in God,” personally and actively. Ordinary Christian life means serving, trusting, and acting in faith every day . . . not just occasionally or passively.The Homily concludes by beautifully at the Eucharist: Jesus, the Master, comes to serve his servants. When we receive Him in Communion and pray, “Lord, increase my faith,” His response is immediate and intimate: “I am here within you . . . believe in Me.” Even a small act of belief in that moment begins the growth of faith that transforms our lives. Listen to this Meditation Media on this parable.Lord, Increase Our Faith: The Power of a Mustard Seed-------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkParable of the Mustard Seed: Dutch Poet, Illustrator and Engraver: Jan Luyken: (lived) 1649-1712-------------------------------------------------------------Gospel: Luke 17: 5-10First Reading: Habakkuk 1: 2-3; 2: 2-4Second Reading: 2 Timothy 1: 6-8, 13-14
Grace for the Journey: Learning to Dance with Christ Today’s Homily uses a proverb about dancing to illustrate the importance of flexibility in the Christian life.Just as a skilled dancer can adapt to any song, believers are called to let the words of Christ shape their lives without excuses or resistance. Jesus’ words are spirit and life, yet often we struggle to trust God, especially in moments of trial.Being Christian is not only about Baptism or following Christ at a distance . . . it is about “dancing to His tune,” becoming like Him through daily trust, humility, and perseverance.True discipleship means moving beyond listening to living His word, even when it is difficult, relying on God’s grace for strength.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Grace for the Journey: Learning to Dance with Christ---------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkChrist and the Children: Mexican Painter: Juan Urruchi: late 1800s---------------------------------------------------------------Gospel: Luke 7: 31-35First Reading: 1 Timothy 3: 14-16
Mary Magdalene and the Call to Bring Our Bondages to Christ Today’s readings highlight a tension: Scripture warns against the love of money, . . .. . . yet the Gospel shows wealthy women using their resources to support Jesus’ mission. Paul, writing to Timothy, reminds church leaders not to misuse their position for personal gain but instead to focus on faith, charity, and holiness . . . treasures that endure beyond this life.True WealthTrue wealth lies not in possessions but in placing resources at the service of God and others. The Gospel also underscores the important role of women, particularly Mary Magdalene, once bound by seven demons, who became a steadfast disciple. Their witness teaches us to bring our own “bondages” to Christ, who transforms wounds into instruments for His kingdom.The Homily challenges us to reject greed, embrace faith, and use what we have for God’s mission.Listen to this Meditation Media.Mary Magdalene and the Call to Bring Our Bondages to Christ--------------------------------------------------------Art Work Christ’s Appearance to Mary Magdalene after the Resurrection:Russian Painter: Alexander Ivanov: 1835
The First Step to Sainthood: Receiving God’s Love Today’s Homily reflects on the feast of St. Andrew Kim and the 103 Korean martyrs, . . .. . . who gave their lives out of love for God. Their sacrifice did not begin with faith or even love for God, but with first receiving God’s love.Using a demonstration with an empty cup, the Homily illustrates that we cannot give what we do not have: only by opening our hearts to receive God’s love can we share it with others. Many fail because they close their hearts, coming to church but not allowing themselves to be filled. The conviction that “God loves me” transforms life and enables us to love others selflessly.Nothing . . . neither persecution nor suffering . . . can separate us from God’s love. The Gospel warns against being ashamed of Christ; those who truly receive His love will not hide their faith. The faithful are urged to open their hearts, receive God’s love, and boldly share it, even in the face of trials.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The First Step to Sainthood: Receiving God’s Love-----------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkGod the Father and the Holy Spirit: Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787)
You Are the Temple of God: Becoming Dwelling Places of His PresenceIn the first reading scripture recalls the rebuilding of the temple after Israel’s exile, . . .. . . highlighting that true dedication is not about stones and gold, but about the people offering themselves to God. Jesus deepens this teaching, declaring himself the true temple and reminding us that our hearts are where God longs to dwell.St. Paul Confirms: We are the Temples of GodThe Gospel parable of the Sower emphasizes that the Word of God only bears fruit when it falls on rich soil . . . hearts open and receptive. Mary is the perfect example of this, as she received God’s Word and bore Jesus Himself.The memorial of Padre Pio illustrates the same truth: his heart was rich soil where God’s Word took root, leading him to a life of prayer, spiritual battle, suffering, and union with Christ. Bearing the stigmata, Padre Pio embodied the suffering Christ and showed what it means to live as God’s temple.The call today is clear: each of us is invited to become a true dwelling place of God, good soil where His Word can bear lasting fruit.Hear more and listen to this Meditation Media.You Are the Temple of God: Becoming Dwelling Places of His Presence------------------------------------------------------Official portrait photograph of Padre Pio, c. 1947------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 8: 19-21 First Reading: Ezra 6: 7-8, 12, 14-20
The Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary: Following Mary in Discovering Our Mission Today’s Homily for the Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary . . .. . . begins with engaging young parishioners in a dialogue about their names and the significance behind them. The Homily explains that names are not just identifiers but carry meaning and vocation.Mary, though given the earthly name “Mary” by her parents, received a heavenly name from God through the angel Gabriel: “Full of Grace” or “Highly Favored One.” This new name revealed her mission as the dispenser of God’s grace and the vessel through whom salvation entered the world.Mary’s Unique RoleThe Homily then traces salvation history . . . promise, preparation, and fulfillment . . . showing Mary’s unique role at the “fullness of time.”The Homily concludes with a call for all Christians to reflect on the meaning of their own names, especially those received at baptism and confirmation, as each name signifies a vocation and mission to live faithfully in today’s world.Hear more and listen to this Meditation Media.The Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary: Following Mary in Discovering Our Mission---------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Madonna of the Roses: French Artist and Painter: William-Adolphe Bouguereau: 1903
When the Word Takes Root: Lessons from St. John ChrysostomToday’s Homily occurs on the Feast of St. John Chrysostom . . .. . . and connects the Gospel parable of the Sower with the saint’s life and mission.The parable illustrates that the Word of God is abundantly sown, yet its fruitfulness depends on the disposition of the hearer . . . whether hardened, shallow, distracted, or open and rich soil.St. John Chrysostom is presented as an example of “good soil”: rooted deeply in prayer, scripture, and surrender before bearing abundant fruit through eloquent preaching, pastoral reform, and courageous witness. His fearless proclamation, even against imperial power and corrupt clergy, led to exile and suffering, yet his words continued to strengthen the Church.Remembered as the “Golden Mouth,” his lasting fruitfulness demonstrates that true preaching flows from a heart firmly rooted in Christ.The Homily concludes by reminding the faithful that Christ, the Divine Sower, continues to sow himself in the Eucharist, and each believer is called to cultivate soil that allows his Word to take deep root and bear lasting fruit.Listen to the Meditation Media. Listen toWhen the Word Takes Root: Lessons from St. John Chrysostom---------------------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Byzantine emperor Nicephorus III receives a book of homilies from John Chrysostom; the Archangel Michael stands on his left (11th-century illuminated manuscript):Used with permission from Wikipedia.
The Cross: God’s Love Lifted HighThe Homily reflects on the central place of the cross in Christian life, . . .. . . often present yet overlooked or misunderstood. From the liturgy to the crucifixes in our homes, the cross continually marks our faith.On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, we are reminded not only of its burden but of its glory and victory. Drawing from Scripture, the Homily recalls Moses lifting the bronze serpent to bring healing and connects this to Christ lifted on the cross . . . not to erase suffering but to transform it.Greatest Sign of God’s LoveThrough the cross, Jesus takes upon himself our pain, weakness, and failure, making them the very means of salvation. The cross thus becomes not only a symbol of suffering but the greatest sign of God’s love, drawing our hearts, guiding our path, and opening the gates of heaven. The Church calls us not just to carry the cross as a weight, but to lift it high in faith, joy, and triumph, for by it we are redeemed.Listen to the Meditation Media. Listen toThe Cross: God’s Love Lifted High----------------------------------------------------Art6 WorkExaltation of the Holy Cross: Artist: Anonymous Russian icon painter----------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 3: 13-17First Reading: Numbers 21: 4-9Second Reading: Philippians 2: 6-11
The Path to True Happiness: Keys to Lasting Joy in Christ Today’s Gospel and Homily emphasizes humanity’s universal desire for happiness, . . .. . . both for ourselves and others. True happiness, however, is not found in wealth, comfort, or praise, but in trusting God even amid poverty, hunger, persecution, or suffering.Jesus Tells Us About True HappinessJesus points us to the Beatitudes as the path to “supreme happiness” . . . blessedness that endures beyond earthly struggles.Detachment from worldly possessions is key, not because riches or joy are inherently bad, but because when they become central, they separate us from God. Instead, all that we have should be placed at the service of God and His people.As St. Paul reminds us, those who have died with Christ in baptism should seek the things from above, put aside anger and lies, and put on Christ. True happiness flows from recognizing God’s control, staying faithful through trials, and making Jesus the center of life.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Path to True Happiness: Keys to Lasting Joy in Christ-------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 6: 20-26First Reading: Colossians 3: 1-11-------------------------------------------------------Art WorkThe Virgin Lamb: French Painter: William Adolphe Bouguereau: 1903
Power, Pleasure, and Honor: The Temptations That Distract Us from Christ Today’s Homily begins with a personal story from the seminary when, out of inexperience, . . .. . . he failed to show proper respect to a bishop by kissing his ring.This memory connects to the Gospel message where Jesus criticizes the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes: they teach the truth but fail to live it out, burdening others while seeking power, honor, and recognition.The Homily challenges us not to discard the truth of the message because of flawed messengers but instead to focus on living faithfully. Hypocrisy is not only a clerical problem but one that all Christians can fall into when their actions contradict their faith.Jesus warns against the temptations of power, pleasure, and honor, urging believers to be authentic witnesses. The Blessed Mother serves as a model of humility, love, and faithfulness, pointing us to her Son and calling us to align our words with our actions.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toPower, Pleasure, and Honor: The Temptations That Distract Us from Christ--------------------------------------------------------The Twelve-Year Old Jesus in the Temple: German Artist and Painter: Max Liebermann: 1879--------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Matthew 23: 1-12First Reading Ruth 2: 1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17
Through the Narrow Gate: Salvation as a Lifelong Journey Today’s homily emphasizes that the Christian journey is not just about following Christ, . . .. . . but about becoming like Him. Salvation, according to Catholic teaching, is not a one-time event but an ongoing process requiring cooperation with God’s grace.Jesus’ call from today’s Gospel to “strive to enter through the narrow gate” reminds us that salvation demands effort, conversion, and perseverance. Merely hearing His words or receiving the sacraments without allowing them to transform our lives is insufficient . . . Christ must shape our thoughts, actions, and decisions.The Sacrament of Confession, trust in God amid trials, and living a life of continual conversion are presented as concrete ways of walking the narrow path.Ultimately, we are invited to give Christ our sins and let His grace transform us, so that our relationship with Him is real and life changing.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Through the Narrow Gate: Salvation as a Lifelong Journey------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 13: 22-30First Reading: Isaiah 66: 18-21Second Reading: Hebrews 12: 5-7, 11-13------------------------------------------------------------------The Wide Road and the Narrow Road: Dutch Artist: Jan Luyken: 1712 Today’s engraving by Dutch artist Jan Luyken, printed in 1712, serves as an excellent visual companion to our Gospel reading. On the left side of the engraving, we see the wide gate, where people are joyfully dancing and celebrating as they pass through the broad arch. Atop this gate, a carved relief of the earthly globe is displayed, symbolizing the world’s temptations. This path represents the road the world urges us to follow.On the right side of the engraving lies the narrow path mentioned by Jesus in our reading. A man, having taken up his cross, is depicted walking through the narrow gate, joined by others who are also carrying their crosses further along the path. They journey toward a radiant light atop the hill, symbolizing Heaven. In contrast, those on the left are headed toward a storm.
The Queenship of Mary: Mary’s Role in Our Salvation and Peace Today’s Homily celebrates the octave of the Feast of the Assumption and . . .. . . the 50th anniversary of the Shrine, reflecting on Mary as Queen of Heaven, Earth, Peace, and All Hearts. Her queenship is not merely an honorific but a real authority rooted in her “yes” to God at the Annunciation, when she freely accepted to bear Christ, changing the universe forever.Her dignity, beauty, and authority exist not for herself but for our salvation, showing her humility as the “handmaid of the Lord.” Mary’s queenship continues in her intercession, especially as Queen of Peace, and Queen of All Hearts, bringing grace to human hearts scarred by violence.The faithful are encouraged to entrust themselves to her through acts of consecration, imitating her faith and service so that Christ may be more fully received in their lives and in the world.At the end of the Homily members who have been preparing for the Act of Total Consecration were invited to the altar for a special prayer.Hear more within this Meditation Media.The Queenship of Mary: Mary’s Role in Our Salvation and Peace------------------------------------------------------Statue of Our Lady at the Shrine of Our Lady of the IslandThe statue was recently restored and originally came from South America to the Shrine about ten years ago. The statue is approximately a hundred years old.------------------------------------------------------Gospel: Matthew 22: 34-40First Reading: Ruth 1: 1, 3-6, 14b-16, 22
Trusting God at Life’s CrossroadsLife often brings us to turning points . . .. . . retirement, illness, or the close of a chapter . . . that leave us uncertain about what comes next. Scripture reminds us, through Moses’ final instructions to Israel and his encouragement to Joshua, that the journey must continue with trust in God, who always goes before us.Jesus echoes this in the Gospel when He teaches that true greatness lies not in self-importance but in humility, dependence on God, and childlike trust. God’s mercy is deeply personal . . . seeking out each individual as in the parable of the lost sheep.Finally, Mary’s example as the “handmaid of the Lord” shows us that true discipleship and greatness are found in humble service to others.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toTrusting God at Life’s Crossroads-------------------------------------------------------StatueBlessed Mother from the Parish St Paul the Apostle in Manhattan, New York City-------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Matthew 18: 1-5, 10, 12-14First Reading Deuteronomy 31: 1-8
From Jordan’s Waters to Eternal Life: Living Christ’s Command of Love The Homily weaves together the Gospel command of Christ . . .. . . to “love one another as I have loved you” with the biblical symbolism of the Jordan River, the sacrament of Baptism, the Eucharist, and the witness of St. Maximilian Kolbe.The crossing of the Jordan foreshadowed baptism, where Christ consecrated the waters to grant eternal life. Baptism is not merely symbolic but transforms us into sharers of Christ’s death and resurrection, directing us toward our eternal homeland.The Eucharist deepens this call, reminding us that love means self-giving. St. Maximilian Kolbe embodies this truth, freely offering his life in place of another at Auschwitz, living out Christ’s command of sacrificial love.The newly consecrated tabernacle at the shrine thus becomes a profound sign of Christ’s abiding presence, love, and the command to imitate Him.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toFrom Jordan’s Waters to Eternal Life: Living Christ’s Command of Love-------------------------------------------------------------The Baptism of Christ: Italian painter: Paris Paschalinus Bordone: 1535-1540The painting resides at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
Why the Disciples Failed . . . and How We Can Avoid It This Homily begins with the Shema . . . “Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone” . . .. . . as a call to attentive listening, not just speaking or acting on our own plans. Scripture shows the consequences of listening or failing to listen: Adam disobeyed because he did not listen, while Abraham, Mary, and the saints prospered in God’s will because they did.“Israel” refers to those who cling to God, even in struggle. God alone is to be valued above all else . . . above self, possessions, and ambitions . . . and loved with heart (passions), soul (spiritual being), and strength (talents). St. Augustine’s counsel . . . love God in all things and all things for God . . . reminds us to see Him behind all creation and relationships. How? The Homily tells us!Why Did The Disciples FailToday’s Gospel account of the disciples failing to heal a possessed boy illustrates that without God’s direction, we can do nothing, even if we have succeeded before. Only by allowing God to lead us, through the Holy Spirit, can we truly forgive, heal, and love. The Homily ends with a prayer for openness and surrender to God’s guidance.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Why the Disciples Failed . . . and How We Can Avoid It---------------------------------------------------------The Exhortation to the Apostles: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886Part of the online collection of the Brooklyn Museum.---------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 17: 14-20First Reading: Deuteronomy 6: 4-13
Listen to Him: The Transfiguration and the Tent of the Heart Today’s Homily reflects on the mystery of the Transfiguration, celebrated twice each year, . . .. . . and draws connections between the vision in the Book of Daniel, the Gospel account, and the liturgy of the Mass.The Homily emphasizes that the Transfiguration reveals Jesus not just as a foretaste of the Resurrection, but as the One who fully bears the divine authority, glory, and voice of God. On the mountain, the veil of His humility falls away, revealing His luminous divinity in the presence of Moses (the Law) and Elijah (the Prophets), both of whom find their fulfillment in Christ.Our Almighty Father Commands the Disciples to “Listen to Him”God’s voice from the cloud affirms Jesus as His Son and commands the disciples to “listen to Him,” shifting focus from sight to hearing and from temporary visions to the enduring “tent of the heart.”The Homily applies this mystery to the Mass, where hearts are lifted with Christ, who becomes truly present on the altar. Receiving Him in the Eucharist is dwelling permanently with the fullness of God’s self-revelation, a call to live daily in attentive listening to Him.Hear more within this Meditation Media.Listen to Him: The Transfiguration and the Tent of the Heart--------------------------------------------------------------Quote from the HomilyThis is not the Lord rejecting Moses or Elijah. He speaks through them, but the fullness of his speaking is found in and through Jesus Christ. What Almighty God is saying to St. Peter, you only need one tent.You don’t need three. You need that tent of permanence in your heart where you abide with him and listen to him and enthrone him and live with him.The Lord never says it’s wrong to ask for what you did, but he clarifies what you should be asking for. Listen to him. Remain with him. Abide with him and why. The eye sees many things. But what the eye sees, passes very quickly and fades. However, listening, when we listen and when we retain what is said, what is heard continues to speak, and it remains.Transfiguration: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch: 1872--------------------------------------------------------------Gospel: Luke 9: 28-36First Reading: Daniel 7: 9-10, 13-14Second Reading: 2 Peter 1: 16-19
Fear Not, Little Flock: God Is Pleased to Give You a Kingdom Today’s Homily reflects on St. Louis Marie de Montfort’s unwavering conviction that God . . .. . . had called him to found a congregation to renew the Church, despite repeated failures during his lifetime.His steadfast faith led him to pray ardently, write a rule of life, and even compose a letter to members of a congregation that did not yet exist . . . urging them, as Jesus did, to “fear not, little flock.”God is Pleased to Give His People a KingdomThe central message is that God is pleased to give His people a kingdom, not reluctantly but joyfully, and that this identity as heirs to the kingdom outweighs all weakness, poverty, or insignificance.The Homily challenges us to live in hopeful expectation of God’s promises, preparing themselves for the kingdom by living faithfully, using the great trust God has placed in them. Jesus’ call to be vigilant is a reminder that those entrusted with much are accountable for much. The Eucharist is presented as the supreme moment when Christ entrusts Himself to His people, sending them forth with the true greatness of His presence to live according to the gift they have received.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Fear Not, Little Flock: God Is Pleased to Give You a Kingdom---------------------------------------------------------------Quote from the HomilyNote the expression, it has pleased God, the Father, to give you a kingdom. What a remarkable statement that is, not simply that God has promised something.But that he’s delighted to make that promise that in making this promise to you, there is something that pleases his heart. It is not that God begrudgingly gives you something. It is not that God reluctantly agrees to help you. God is pleased. Pleased to give you a kingdom.Note the weight of that statement. God is pleased. It delights God to call you into His kingdom and to open the possibility that the very wealth of heavenly goodness is yours. And he does it, not reluctantly, but joyfully. It pleases him to do this for you. And in quoting the Lord, Father de Montford spoke to his community that did not yet exist.---------------------------------------------------------------St. Louis de MontfortThe statue of Montfort currently resides in the Montfort Spiritual Center Chapel.The video at the top of the post on the QoAH website is a small collection of paintings and statues of St. Louis de Montfort from around the world.---------------------------------------------------------------Gospel: Luke 12: 32-48First Reading: Wisdom 18: 6-9Second Reading: Hebrews 11: 1-2, 8-19
From Desert Manna to Living Bread of Jesus: Trusting the Giver Today’s Homily reflects on Jesus’ words, “Whoever has ears ought to hear,” . . .. . . urging deep, attentive listening to God’s Word. Drawing on Israel’s experience in the desert, it warns against forgetting God’s past goodness when facing present challenges, and cautions against grumbling, mistrust, and spiritual immaturity.The Parable of the SowerThe parable of the Sower illustrates God’s generous scattering of His Word everywhere, but also the varying receptivity of human hearts . . . whether hard, shallow, thorn-choked, or fertile. The example of Mary, who received the Word in her heart before in her womb, shows the ideal receptivity that allows God’s Word to take root and bear abundant fruit.The Eucharist is presented as both true heavenly bread and the seed of Christ’s life planted in believers, intended to grow and produce lasting spiritual fruit. The call is to prepare the “soil” of our hearts and ears to receive, retain, and live God’s Word.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:From Desert Manna to Living Bread of Jesus: Trusting the Giver--------------------------------------------------------------------Quote from the HomilyIt is a response to a lack of trust. It’s a response to a lack of confidence and a refusal to understand that when God does anything, there’s always a point. There’s always a purpose. When grace comes into our lives, it always has a direction to it. It always leads us somewhere. But one only grows spiritually when one learns to trust the movement of grace and trust requires the risk of not always understanding right away.--------------------------------------------------------------------ImageParable of the Sower: Dutch Painter: Pieter Bruegel the Elder: 1557A Sower went out to sow. The painting depicts a farmer scattering seed across a field. On the left, thorny bushes threaten to overtake the grain. Nearby, rocky ground offers quick growth but little endurance. To the right, further down the hill, the seed falls on fertile soil.Across the river, a crowd gathers to hear the teachings of Jesus. The painting was inspired by a trip to the mountains the artist took just before creating this piece.--------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel: Matthew 13: 1-9First Reading: Exodus 16: 1-5, 9-15
The Spirit of Jubilee vs. the Sin of HerodToday’s Homily contrasts two central themes: . . .. . . the Gospel account of John the Baptist’s martyrdom and the Old Testament concept of the Jubilee year from Leviticus.In the Gospel, Herod is portrayed as a weak leader driven by public praise and manipulated by Herodias, his illegitimately married wife, and her daughter. Their desire for revenge leads to the unjust execution of John the Baptist, who boldly spoke the truth about Herod’s immoral actions. The Homily emphasizes how sin can infect an entire household and how cowardice and pride can override justice.The Year of JubileeIn contrast, the first reading from Leviticus introduces the Year of Jubilee, a time of restoration, renewal, and freedom . . . a vision of justice rooted in God’s will. The Homily challenges all of us to embrace the spirit of the Jubilee: to be people of truth, forgiveness, and freedom.Mary is lifted up as a model of a Jubilee heart, wholly aligned with God’s will. The faithful are called to imitate John the Baptist’s courage and Mary’s constancy, especially during this Jubilee Year of Hope.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toThe Spirit of Jubilee vs. the Sin of Herod-------------------------------------------------------------Saint John the Baptist preaching before Herod: Dutch Artist: Pieter Fransz de Grebber: 1600 – 1652-------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Matthew 14: 1-12First Reading Leviticus 25: 1, 8-17
Three Responses to God’s Claim on Your LifeToday’s Homily concludes Jesus’ series of teachings on the Kingdom of Heaven with . . .. . . the parable of the net . . . a powerful image highlighting the inescapable and universal claim the Kingdom has on every person. Unlike other parables that speak of seeking the Kingdom, this one shows the Kingdom actively gathering everyone . . . righteous and wicked alike . . . for judgment.The Homily emphasizes that everyone belongs to God, whether they accept it, ignore it, or rebel against it. Using the teachings of St. Louis de Montfort, three responses to this belonging are outlined:1. rebellious rejection (like Satan),2. passive indifference (common but mediocre), or3. wholehearted embrace (the path of spiritual growth and joy).The Eucharist is seen as a profound act of mutual belonging . . . Christ gives Himself to us, and we give ourselves to Him. Ultimately, the Christian life is about living into this reality of belonging to God, which shapes our identity and destiny.Listen to this Mediation Media:Three Responses to God’s Claim on Your Life-------------------------------------------------------------The First Miraculous Draught of Fish: French Artist and Painter: James Tissot: 1886-------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Matthew 13: 47-53First Reading Exodus 40: 16-21, 34-38
Stumbling into Heaven: How Encounters with God Change Everything On the occasion of his 19th anniversary of ordination, . . .. . . the visiting Montfort priest reflects joyfully on the value of the priesthood and the profound meaning of encountering God.Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew, the Homily emphasizes two parables: a man who stumbles upon a hidden treasure and a merchant searching for fine pearls . . . both of whom give up everything to possess what they found. These stories highlight how an authentic encounter with God transforms a person permanently.The Homily underscores how scriptural figures like Moses, St. Paul, St. Peter, and Isaiah were forever changed by their divine encounters with God. The Homily relates this to the Eucharist, suggesting that even if we attend Mass reluctantly or by habit, the experience can still lead to transformation.The Homily invites us to:1. Pay attention to the small ways God reveals His kingdom in everyday life.2. Go out with joy after encountering God, showing that joy even amid life’s problems.3. Remove distractions and focus more deeply on Christ.The Homily’s message is one of gratitude, transformation, joy, and renewed commitment to live in God’s kingdom now . . . on Earth! How?Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen toStumbling into Heaven: How Encounters with God Change Everything---------------------------------------------------------------God‘s Covenant with Abraham . . . Showing Him the Stars in the Sky: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform: Generative AI Image by Queen of All Hearts, 2025 What is Generative AI? Generative AI refers to a recent approach in artificial intelligence that involves the creation of AI-generated art. This innovative technique utilizes a potent AI computer to generate images based on textual prompts or instructions. The resulting output is an AI-generated image, representing one interpretation of a given concept, such as God Showing Abraham the Stars in the Sky in this particular instance.---------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 13: 44-46First Reading: Exodus 34: 29-35
Asking in Jesus’ Name: What It Really Means to Pray This Homily centers on the meaning and importance of prayer, . . .. . . particularly as shown through the readings of the day. The Homily acknowledges the frustration many Christians feel when prayers seem unanswered and addresses why persistent, faithful prayer is essential.Drawing on the example of Abraham interceding for Sodom, the Homily emphasizes that prayer requires trust, like Abraham’s friendship with God. It is a relationship, not a transaction.Jesus teaches us to pray by calling God “Father,” which implies intimacy and trust. Just as manna could only be gathered daily in the wilderness, so too must prayer be a daily act of dependence.The Homily explains three key attitudes in prayer:1. Trust/Faith – We believe God hears and answers in the best way.2. Persistence – Like Abraham, we must not give up.3. Reciprocity – We must be willing to give what we ask for (e.g., forgiveness, food, mercy).Ultimately, prayer in Jesus’ name must reflect His love and justice. It cannot be selfish or vengeful. The message concludes by encouraging believers to grow in their personal relationship with God, as true prayer is rooted in that bond. How?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toAsking in Jesus’ Name: What It Really Means to Pray------------------------------------------------------------The Virgin in Prayer: Painter: Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato: 1645------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Luke 11: 1-13First Reading Genesis 18: 20-32Second Reading Colossians 2: 12-14
Waiting on the Mountain: Trusting God’s Time with Mary and Elijah Today’s Homily occurs on the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel . . .. . . and explores the deep spiritual symbolism of the mountain . . . specifically Mount Carmel . . . and how it relates to faith, patience, prayer, and transformation. The mountain is more than geography; it’s a spiritual summit, a place of ascent where prophets like Elijah wait in vigilant hope for God’s quiet, powerful action. After his victory over idolatry, Elijah climbs higher . . . not for glory, but to wait for the Lord’s rain, a symbol of restoration that comes only through perseverance and trust.This patient expectation mirrors the Carmelite tradition, where Saints Teresa of Ávila and John of the Cross teach that real prayer is not about many words, but about aligning oneself with the will of God.The Homily connects this to Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, who is both a model and a “mountain” of receptivity to God’s Word. Jesus highlights her true greatness not her physical motherhood, but her hearing and doing the will of God.In this feast, we are called to spiritual ascent . . . through character, devotion, and trust . . . in Mary’s school of holiness. At Mass, this spiritual climb finds its summit in the Eucharist, where we behold the Lamb of God and receive the ocean of divine grace.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Waiting on the Mountain: Trusting God’s Time with Mary and Elijah------------------------------------------------------------Quote from the HomilyTheir recommendation is a much more powerful and much more fundamental thing. Seek to do the will of God, period.At first glance, that sounds like we’re replacing praying with doing, but to do the will of God, one must know it. To do the will of God, one must desire it. To do the will of God, one must seek it. Let’s note the power of the advice. Let your heart seek not its own way. Let it seek the way of the Lord. Let not your heart aspire after its own ambitions.Let your heart seek out what the Lord desires for you. And the more one begins to do that, what happens is one surrenders himself; one surrenders herself to the Lord in a way that saying, many prayers never get us to because of the issue. The issue in the spiritual life is not so much praying as it is belonging. One belongs to the Lord and to really belong to the Lord . . .------------------------------------------------------------Our Lady of Mount Carmel: Italian Painter: Pietro Novelli: 1641
Come to Me: Discovering True Rest in Christ The Homily contrasts our productivity driven culture . . .. . . where only the “best” are chosen . . . with Jesus’ open invitation to the weary and overlooked.Two anecdotes illustrate the point: a seminary soccer game in which an unskilled player is always picked last, and a mother abandoned by her husband when their disabled daughter could no longer “contribute.” Both stories expose a world that prizes achievement but discards weakness.In sharp relief, God declares in Scripture, “I am concerned about my people,” and Christ echoes, “Come to me … and I will give you rest.”This “rest” is more than relief; it is the deep satisfaction and fulfillment God experienced on the seventh day of creation. The Homily urges listeners to drop their reservations, open their hearts fully, and accept the only rest that truly satisfies . . . the peace and completeness found in Christ. How?Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Come to Me: Discovering True Rest in Christ-------------------------------------------------------------------------Christ and the Children: Mexican Painter: Juan Urruchi: late 1800s
Christ, Our First Neighbor: The Call to Go and Do Likewise The Homily initially reflects on a personal experience during a visa interview . . .. . . where the identity as a priest was questioned, drawing a parallel to the Gospel account in which a lawyer tests Jesus’ identity and authority. Jesus responds with the parable of the Good Samaritan, shifting the focus from the legalistic question “Who is my neighbor?” to the deeper reality that Christ Himself has become a neighbor to humanity.In the parable, the journey from Jerusalem (symbolizing a movement away from God) represents humanity’s fall, with the wounded man symbolizing sinful, broken people. The priest and Levite, themselves on a path away from God, are unable to help. It is the Good Samaritan . . . symbolizing Jesus . . . who shows compassion, heals, and restores the wounded man, a clear symbol for Christ’s saving work through the sacraments and His incarnation.Christ has Made Himself Our NeighborThe key message: because Christ has made Himself our neighbor through love, compassion, and sacrifice, we are now commissioned to become neighbors to others . . . especially those in need, those who mourn, and those seeking forgiveness or assistance. Our ability to love others flows from having first received Christ’s love ourselves.Listen more to:Christ, Our First Neighbor: The Call to Go and Do Likewise-----------------------------------------------------------------The Good Samaritan: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1630-----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 25-37First Reading: Deuteronomy 30: 10-14Second Reading: Colossians 1: 15-20
Jesus Tells Us Do Not Be Afraid: Discipleship in a Challenging World Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew, which explores Jesus’ call to discipleship, . . .. . . emphasizing that to follow Christ means not only learning from Him but being formed into His likeness. The Homily begins by reflecting on the ritual of kissing the Gospel . . . whether its message is comforting or challenging . . . underscoring that all of God’s Word is sacred and to be cherished.The Homily then unpacks Jesus’ teaching that a disciple must not expect an easier path than the Master’s, preparing listeners for the resistance they may face when living according to Christ’s truth in a world that often rejects it.The Homily urges believers not to fear opposition but to value the Gospel deeply and live it fully, recognizing that the Christian journey, though difficult, leads to eternal life.Jesus’ presence in the Eucharist is highlighted as a constant source of strength, reminding us that we are never alone. The Homily concludes by encouraging trust in God’s guidance, assurance in His care, and boldness in living out the Gospel despite life’s trials.Listen more to this meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us Do Not Be Afraid: Discipleship in a Challenging World---------------------------------------------------------------Jesus Sends Out Disciples Two By Two: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886This painting resides in the Brooklyn Museum.---------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 10: 24-33First Reading: Genesis 49: 29-32; 50:15-26
The Danger of Presumption: When Grace and God Demands a ResponseThis Homily emphasizes that the goodness and blessings of God are not ends in themselves, . . .. . . but invitations to transformation and repentance. Jesus expresses frustration at communities like Capernaum that witnessed his miracles and heard his teachings yet remained unchanged.The Homily draws a parallel between modern believers and ancient Israel, highlighting the danger of presumption . . . the mistaken belief that God’s mercy requires nothing from us. It warns that taking God’s grace for granted can lead to spiritual stagnation and even condemnation.The act of receiving Holy Communion is used symbolically to illustrate that God comes close, but we must still respond by moving toward Him, both physically and spiritually. The central message is a call to wake up, repent, and respond to God’s call now, while the opportunity remains.Listen to:The Danger of Presumption: When Grace and God Demands a Response----------------------------------------------------------Jesus Teaches the People by the Sea: French Artist and Painter: James Tissot: 1886----------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 11: 20-24First Reading: Exodus 2: 1-15
Let This Mystery Change You: The Self-Giving of Christ and the Call of the PriestThis Homily, delivered on the anniversary of Father Bernard’s ordination, . . .. . . reflects on the deep theological and spiritual meaning of the priesthood, particularly through the lens of the Passion narrative in the Gospel of John. The Homily highlights the moment at the cross where Jesus entrusts Mary to the beloved disciple and vice versa, explaining this as the beginning of Mary’s unique relationship with the priesthood.Mary’s Unique Relationship with the PriesthoodThe Homily draws a distinction between the celebration of priesthood on Holy Thursday (when Jesus instituted the Eucharist and shared his priesthood with the apostles) and Good Friday, which commemorates Christ’s own high priesthood as He offers Himself in sacrifice for the salvation of the world.The Homily also explains the priest acts in the person of Christ at the altar, not merely recalling the Last Supper but entering into Christ’s eternal sacrifice. A key point is that priests must be transformed by the mystery they celebrate, resting their hearts against Christ’s own, just as John did.The homily draws special attention to the mystical intimacy between Mary and the priest, emphasizing how a priest must not just welcome Mary into his home but allow himself to be welcomed into hers.Finally, the homily praises Father Bernard as one who embodies this deep, Marian-shaped priesthood . . . one who listens to the heart of Christ and allows Mary to guide and shape his vocation.Listen to:Let This Mystery Change You: The Self-Giving of Christ and the Call of the Priest-------------------------------------------------------------------------Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes.
From Disappointment to Trust: Finding God in Life’s LossesThe Homily begins with a reflection on a meaningful encounter . . .. . . with a young man who plays soccer with their group but avoids communal prayer due to a personal crisis of faith following his mother’s death. The young man had prayed fervently for her healing, but when she died, he lost faith.Joseph’s Trials As Part of a Larger PlanIn response, the Homily shares the first reading story of Joseph, who endured betrayal, suffering, and injustice before ultimately being elevated by God to save many. The message is that our hardships may be part of a greater divine plan, and we are called to trust God even when we don’t understand our suffering.The Homily continues with the Gospel account of Jesus sending out the twelve disciples, including Judas, emphasizing that Jesus chose imperfect people because he trusted in their capacity to grow and change.The central theme is that God does not require perfection, but trust, commitment, and openness to transformation. The faithful are encouraged to share Christ with a world hungry for truth and to live in alignment with God’s will rather than personal ambition. Why?Hear more in this Meditation piece. Listen to . . .From Disappointment to Trust: Finding God in Life’s Losses-------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyLord, why are you allowing this to happen to me? My own brothers? Lord, you know, I’m innocent. Why are you allowing the Pharaoh’s wife to accuse me of something that I have not done?But this was a process. This was a preparation for something higher that God was doing, and it is at the end we hear …. about God and His plan.-------------------------------------------------------------Joseph Sold by His Brethren: Italian Painter: Ubertini Francesco, also called Bachiacca: 1515-------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 10: 1-7First Reading: Genesis 41: 55-57; 42:5-7, 17-24
Wrestling with God: The Struggle That Forms Disciples Today’s reading reflects on Jesus’ words, “The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few,” . . .. . . emphasizing that the “harvest” refers not to the perfect or righteous, but to the broken, wounded, and lost . . . a world in desperate need of salvation. The Homily challenges the common, passive prayer for vocations, asserting that vocations do not arise from nothing; they come from a Church that is itself faithful, rooted, and committed to spiritual struggle.Jacob Wrestling and Its LessonDrawing from the story of Jacob wrestling through the night and leaving with a limp, the Homily powerfully illustrates that authentic discipleship requires tenacity, struggle, and a willingness to hold fast to God even when it’s difficult. True laborers in the Lord’s harvest are formed in the soil of the Church, shaped by prayer, moral conviction, and fidelity. Only then can they reach out to others with strength and purpose.Ultimately, the homily challenges all to not just pray for vocations, but to live in such a way that they help create them. How?Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Wrestling with God: The Struggle That Forms Disciples---------------------------------------------------------------------- Quote From The HomilyAnd it’s important that we recognize this because there’s a certain naive way of hearing these words about the harvest and laborers that allows us very quickly to miss the point and the thrust of what Jesus is talking about here.It is not a harvest of the perfect, but a harvest of the broken. It is not a harvest of the found, but a harvest of the lost because without Christ, that is what the world is. Without Christ, that is what the human heart is.There are none that are healthy. There are none who are found. All are lost. All are wounded. All are guilty. This is the harvest, the world that needs saving. And so it is then that the Lord looks out at that tremendous need for salvation, this ocean of need that he says pray. Then ask the Lord of the harvest to send Laborers for the laborers are few. And again, we have to pause. What does it mean recognizing that the laborers are few, . . .---------------------------------------------------------------------- Jacob Wrestling with the Angel: French Painter, Illustrator and Artist: Gustave Doré: 1855---------------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Matthew 9: 32-38First Reading: Genesis 32: 23-33
If I Can Just Touch Him: Resting in the Presence of GodToday’s Homily reflects on two Scripture passages . . .. . . a vision of Jacob at Bethel and the Gospel story of the raising of the official’s daughter and the healing of the woman with the hemorrhage.The Homily begins by exploring the nature of a shrine, emphasizing Jacob’s recognition of God’s presence and the spiritual importance of resting in a holy place. Jacob’s dream of a ladder connecting heaven and earth becomes a symbol of God’s grace descending and the soul ascending. In the Catholic tradition, this ladder is often identified with Mary, who brought Christ into the world and continues to be a spiritual bridge between heaven and earth.The Homily then turns to the Gospel, highlighting the deep faith of the Jewish official who believes Jesus can restore his dead daughter, and the desperate yet confident faith of the woman who believes that even touching Jesus’ garment can heal her.Their stories emphasize the transformative power of physical contact with the Lord. This culminates in the sacrament of the Eucharist, where the faithful come forward to be physically touched by Christ, receiving healing and grace.All the faithful are urged to rest and make a true thanksgiving after communion, allowing the grace of Christ’s touch to fully penetrate their lives. How?Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:If I Can Just Touch Him: Resting in the Presence of God--------------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The Homily. . . the Lord gives us his blessing. The Lord gives us his goodness, but we never fully receive it. We see it as it comes to us, but so much of life calls us away so quickly. We end up laying it aside or only receiving it partially. Jacob in this reading shows us something different because he rests in this place.--------------------------------------------------------------------The Woman with an Issue of Blood: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886This painting resides at The Brooklyn Museum. --------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 9: 18-26First Reading: Genesis 28: 10-22
Rich in What Matters to God: A Reflection on Independence and HumilityThe Homily reflects on the 249th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, . . .. . . acknowledging the progress the U.S. has made since 1776, while emphasizing that the nation is still a work in progress. The original declaration stated that “all men are created equal,” but in practice, equality was historically denied to many groups . . . Catholics, non-whites, African Americans, and women. Over time, the concept of equality has expanded, but the work continues.The Declaration and the Teachings of JesusThe Homily draws parallels between the ideals of the Declaration and the teachings of Jesus, particularly the gospel parable of the rich man who stores up wealth for himself but is spiritually empty.The Homily warns against placing faith in materialism or self-sufficiency, especially in a culture where young people often feel they don’t need God. True richness, they argue, is found in justice, humility, truth, and care for others . . . values that align with God’s vision.The homily ends by referencing a post-WWII statement from Bing Crosby, suggesting that even in moments of national victory, we should feel humbled rather than proud, recognizing the sacrifices made and the opportunity to serve as instruments of peace and justice.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen toRich in What Matters to God: A Reflection on Independence and Humility--------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyThat’s true for each person, each country, our country to be rich in what matters to God. And that’s what’s so important, and to be rich in what matters to God is to be rich in justice, in truth, in humility, in caring for the needy. That’s what matters to God. That’s what God preached throughout the whole Old Testament and what Jesus lived and died for.--------------------------------------------------------------Declaration of Independence: American Artist: John Trumbull, 1817He has been called “The Painter of the Revolution”.--------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 9: 9-13First Reading: Genesis 23: 1-4, 19; 24:1-8, 62-67
Peace Is the Presence of Christ: A Mission for Every Christian This Homily begins with a personal story: . . .. . . the speaker’s first funeral as a newly ordained priest, which was for an only daughter lost in a tragic accident. The grieving family’s heartfelt request was for peace . . . peace for their daughter and peace for themselves. This sets the stage for a broader meditation on the Gospel reading where Jesus sends out 72 disciples, symbolizing that all Christians are missionaries, not just clergy.The Homily emphasizes that Christianity involves active participation: bringing Christ to others in daily life . . . not necessarily across seas, but to workplaces, schools, and communities. The idea of being “sent” is built into the structure of the Mass itself.Jesus sends his disciples in pairs to remind us that faith thrives in community and accountability, not in isolation. Saints like Ignatius of Loyola embodied this communal faith. Jesus’ instructions . . . travel light, greet no one . . . underscore dependence on God rather than worldly comforts.An anecdote about young soccer players illustrates how self-sufficiency can lead people to neglect God, but life’s inevitable struggles reveal our need for Him.Finally, the Homily returns to the theme of peace . . . “Peace be to this house” . . . highlighting that peace is not the absence of hardship but the presence of Christ. When we bring Christ to others, we bring peace and proclaim that the kingdom of God is at hand. The ultimate Christian mission is to bring the presence of Christ . . . true peace . . . to the world.Hear more in this Meditation piece. Listen to . . .Peace Is the Presence of Christ: A Mission for Every Christian-------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyAnything that we do that doesn’t have prayer as his foundation for us, it collapses. And that’s what our Lord Jesus Christ is telling us. Pray. And as he says that he also continues. He instructs them as you go.-------------------------------------------------------------Jesus’ Discourse to His Disciples: French Painter: James Tissot-------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 10: 1-12, 17-20First Reading: Isaiah 66: 10-14Second Reading: Galatians 6: 14-18
Clothed in Christ: How Our Lady Shapes Us for God’s BlessingToday’s readings centers on the tension between the old and the new, . . .. . . especially in the spiritual life. Using Jesus’ parables about wineskins and unshrunk cloth, the message underscores that the Gospel cannot be contained or constrained by old patterns, structures, or attitudes. Jesus brings something fundamentally new . . . the joy of the Bridegroom’s presence . . . which cannot simply “patch up” what is old but requires full transformation.The Homily draws a parallel with the Virgin Mary, who was created as the perfect vessel . . . the “new wineskin” . . . to receive Jesus Christ. Similarly, we must allow our hearts to be made new to receive the grace and power of the Gospel.Mary Spiritually Clothes UsThe Homily also brings in the story of Jacob and Esau to illustrate this renewal through Mary’s intercession. Just as Rebecca clothed Jacob in Esau’s garments to receive his father’s blessing, Mary spiritually clothes us in the virtues of Christ so we can be pleasing to God the Father.The message ends by challenging us to ask whether our old, tired hearts are ready to receive Christ fully and encourages us to rely on Mary’s help to be transformed . . . so we may truly become new vessels fit to receive and share the new wine of salvation.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Clothed in Christ: How Our Lady Shapes Us for God’s Blessing----------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyThe more we draw near to Our Lady, the more our hearts are open in love and trust to her, the more she begins to clothe us in the virtues of Jesus. Those things that are so very pleasing to Almighty God the Father, the more we draw near to her, the more we come to resemble that one whom the father loves.----------------------------------------------------------------The Virgin Lamb: French Painter: William Adolphe Bouguereau: 1903----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 9: 14-17First Reading: Genesis 27: 1-5, 15-29
Hearts That Expand: Learning Compassion from Abraham and Jesus Today’s readings focus on two powerful biblical stories . . .. . . the first from the life of Abraham, Sarah, and Ishmael, and the second from the Gospel account of Jesus healing two possessed men.In the first story, Sarah’s jealousy over Hagar and Ishmael leads her to demand their banishment, despite Ishmael being Abraham’s son. Abraham, torn but obedient, sends them away with provisions. God intervenes with care and promise, ensuring Ishmael’s survival and future as a great nation—reminding us that Abraham is the spiritual ancestor of Jews, Christians, and Muslims.The Gospel story presents a stark contrast: Jesus heals two tormented men, but the local people focus on the loss of their pigs rather than the miracle of healing. They reject Jesus, displaying closed hearts and misplaced priorities.The Homily ends by urging listeners to choose which example to follow: Abraham’s compassionate, open heart or the villagers’ closed-off indifference. We are invited to let our hearts expand through the grace of God, even when it’s difficult, and to strive to love, help, and care for others like Abraham and Jesus did.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen toHearts That Expand: Learning Compassion from Abraham and Jesus-----------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyAnd so, then there’s us, and we have choices to make. We can become more and more like Abraham or more and more like those people in the town, more and more where our hearts are touched. By the suffering, by the needs, by the hopes and dreams of so many people that we do whatever we can to show tender care, to help to pray, or we close off, we build walls.-----------------------------------------------------------------Abraham Dismissing Hagar and Ishmael: Dutch Artist: Nicolaes Maes, 1653One of the artist’s earliest works.-----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 8: 28-34First Reading: Genesis 21: 5, 8-20
From Stranger to Citizen: The Spiritual Bond of BelieversThe Homily begins by reflecting on the deep bond felt when encountering someone from one’s home country while abroad, . . .. . . likening it to the spiritual connection shared by Christians as fellow citizens of God’s kingdom.Drawing from St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, the Homily highlights that believers are no longer strangers, but members of a spiritual household built on the apostles with Christ as the cornerstone. This shared citizenship brings both privilege and responsibility . . . especially the commandment to love God and neighbor.Community and Its Impact on Our FaithThe Homily also centers on St. Thomas the Apostle, emphasizing his honest questioning and desire for understanding as a path to deeper faith. It underscores the importance of community in fostering and strengthening faith, as shown when Thomas encounters the risen Christ only after rejoining the other disciples.The homily concludes by stressing that faith grows through communal sharing, trust, and belief . . . even without physical proof. Believing leads to seeing, and those who believe without seeing are truly blessed.Listen to:From Stranger to Citizen: The Spiritual Bond of Believers--------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyAnd when we believe we move, it is with this that things become clear later on. The very first thing is to believe. Blessed are those that have not seen but believe. And why are they blessed? Because they shall see. Blessed are those that have not seen, but believe because surely, they will see.--------------------------------------------------------------Saint Thomas: Spanish Painter: Diego Velazquez: 1618--------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 20: 24-29First Reading: Ephesians 2: 19-22
Look to the Heavens: Faith in God’s PromiseToday’s Homily centers on the dramatic and symbolic covenant scene between God and Abraham, . . .. . . emphasizing Abraham’s deep faith despite his childlessness. God showed Abraham the stars in the sky and made a covenant with him.This faith was counted as righteousness. The Homily draws a parallel between this Old Testament covenant and the new covenant brought by Jesus, whose sacrifice offers complete forgiveness and eternal life.Jesus’ CovenantUnlike the promise of a physical homeland, Jesus’ covenant offers a heavenly one. The Homily encourages listeners to trust in God’s promises, especially during fear or uncertainty, by figuratively “looking to the heavens” and believing in God’s faithful presence, even when the fulfillment of His promises may not align with our expectations.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen toLook to the Heavens: Faith in God’s Promise-----------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyLook to the heavens and believe that God is there. Look to the heavens and believe that in Jesus God’s promises will come true. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow. Certainly not in the exact way you want them. Sorry Charlie. It isn’t going to be that way because his plan is so much bigger. But for us to have trust to hope.-----------------------------------------------------------God‘s Covenant with Abraham . . . Showing Him the Stars in the Sky: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform: Generative AI Image by Queen of All Hearts, 2025 What is Generative AI? Generative AI refers to a recent approach in artificial intelligence that involves the creation of AI-generated art. This innovative technique utilizes a potent AI computer to generate images based on textual prompts or instructions. The resulting output is an AI-generated image, representing one interpretation of a given concept, such as God Showing Abraham the Stars in the Sky in this particular instance.-----------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 7: 15-20First Reading: Genesis 15: 1-12, 17-18
Losing and Finding Jesus: Lessons from a Parent’s Panic and a Divine Mission The Homily shares a personal story about briefly losing a child in a public place, . . .. . . using it as a parallel to Mary and Joseph losing the twelve-year-old Jesus in Jerusalem during Passover. Their search for Jesus and eventual discovery of him in the temple highlights Christ’s early understanding of his divine mission and priority to be in his Father’s house. This Gospel passage emphasizes Jesus’ commitment to God’s will and Mary’s reflective response, keeping “all these things in her heart.”Immaculate Heart of MaryThe Homily then shifts to honoring the Immaculate Heart of Mary on this feast day. The Homily explains its spiritual significance . . . not just as a symbol, but as a representation of Mary’s deep, pure love, especially for Jesus and for humanity.This devotion is tied to key Catholic teachings, liturgical celebrations, and historical developments, including the role of saints like St. John Eudes and papal consecrations.The homily encourages personal devotion to Mary, as a guide to deepen faith in Christ and live a life of holiness.Listen to:Losing and Finding Jesus: Lessons from a Parent’s Panic and a Divine Mission-------------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyHe says, why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my father’s house? This focused response establishes that Jesus’ heavenly Father takes precedence over all earthly relationships. It reinforces that following the will of the Father is Jesus’s unwavering priority. His focus and motivation were to be about his father’s business.-------------------------------------------------------------------The Twelve-Year Old Jesus in the Temple: German Artist and Painter: Max Liebermann: 1879
Peace in the Storm: When Christ is in the BoatToday’s readings highlight the theme of salvation as a dynamic, ongoing journey.The first reading recalls the story of Lot’s rescue from Sodom, emphasizing that Abraham’s persistent prayer played a key role in God’s decision to save Lot’s family. This teaches us that our prayers for others are powerful and never wasted.However, salvation also requires obedience and forward movement. Lot’s wife looks back and becomes a pillar of salt . . . symbolizing bitterness and spiritual rigidity when we cling to the past instead of embracing change. True salvation calls for continual conversion and openness to transformation.Jesus Rebukes Two Storms on the SeaThe Gospel complements this by recounting the storm on the sea, where Jesus rebukes not only the physical storm but also the inner storm of fear. The message is clear: storms in life are inevitable, but faith in Christ overcomes fear. Peace is not the absence of struggle, but the presence of Christ within it.Ultimately, we are reminded that the Christian journey involves daily growth in holiness, faith, hope, and charity, always moving forward, never backward.Listen to:Peace in the Storm: When Christ is in the Boat---------------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyWhen we are with Jesus, storms are inevitable. They’ll come, we’ll be disturbed. But what Jesus is calling us not to be afraid. We should have faith. Faith in him. We should trust him. And it is this trust that is going to give us peace. It is this trust that is going to give us courage to move on, that Jesus is with us.Peace is not absence of challenges. Peace is not absence of weaknesses. But peace is the presence of Christ, and that’s very powerful. And when Christ is with us, when we know that Christ is with us, even in the midst of storms, we shall have peace even in the midst of persecutions.---------------------------------------------------------------------The Storm on the Sea of Galilee: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1633Uniquely, this painting was in a Boston Museum for almost 100 years, until 1990. It was stolen that year and remains missing.---------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 8: 23-27First Reading: Genesis 19: 15-29
Where Is Your Treasure? Lessons from Saint Aloysius GonzagaToday’s readings are delivered on the Feast of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga.The Homily connects Jesus’ teaching . . . “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” . . . to the saint’s life and our own spiritual priorities. Saint Aloysius, born into immense wealth and nobility in 16th-century Italy, renounced his inheritance as a young man to follow Christ through the Jesuit order. He died young while caring for plague victims in Rome, showing his heart was rooted in God and service.God’s Power Shines Through WeaknessThe Homily contrasts Aloysius’ wholehearted devotion with our divided hearts . . . we may believe in God but still invest emotionally and spiritually in lesser things like money, resentment, or comfort.Saint Paul’s writings are also cited, noting how God’s power shines through weakness. The message calls listeners to examine where their treasure truly lies, and to pray for hearts fully grounded in Christ.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen toWhere Is Your Treasure? Lessons from Saint Aloysius Gonzaga--------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyWhere is my treasure? Where is my heart? Where is my strength? Pray that it be with Jesus. Pray to Saint Aloysius. Pray to Our Lady in this shrine of her grace but just pray that your heart be rooted in Christ and your treasure. Be rooted in Him.--------------------------------------------------------------Saint Aloysius Gonzaga: Italian Painter: Giovanni Francesco Barbieri: 1650The artist is better known as Guercino.--------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 6: 24-34First Reading: 2 Corinthians 12: 1-10
The Two Most Important Days in Our Lives: Birth and PurposeThe Homily focuses on the significance of the Nativity of John the Baptist, . . .. . . one of only three birthdays celebrated in the Catholic liturgical calendar (the others being Jesus Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary).The Homily highlights John’s miraculous birth through the prayers of his elderly parents, his divine calling from the womb, and his faithful fulfillment of his life’s purpose: to prepare the way for Christ and bear witness to the truth.There are Two Crucial Days in Each Person’s LifeThe Homily also emphasizes the importance of discovering our God-given purpose, recalling that there are two crucial days in each person’s life . . . the day we are born and the day we understand why.Through John’s example, the homily invites us to seek their purpose in God’s plan and to live it out with humility and faithfulness.Listen to:The Two Most Important Days in Our Lives: Birth and Purpose---------------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyAnd that is why there is this great saying, which says, there are two days true, important days in our life. The first one is when we are born. The second one is when we realize why we were born. The second one is when we realize the purpose that God has set for us and we start journeying towards that.---------------------------------------------------------------------The Birth of Saint John the Baptist: Sanish Artist: Bartolomé Estebán Murillo: 1655---------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 1: 57-66, 80First Reading: Isaiah 49: 1-6
Hidden Glory: Seeking God’s Eyes, Not Man’s Praise Today’s reading focuses on St. Paul’s exhortation to the Corinthians, exploring the theme of abundance in self-giving within the Christian life.Using the metaphor of sowing and harvesting, the Homily critiques a minimalist attitude in spirituality, where individuals do just enough to “check the box” rather than joyfully offering their best.St. Paul’s call to be “a cheerful giver” extends beyond charity . . . it involves giving oneself fully and joyfully in prayer, ministry, and service. The teaching is echoed in Christ’s Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus urges purity of intention in almsgiving, prayer, and fasting . . . not seeking human approval, but God’s favor.The contrast between outward performance and inner authenticity is emphasized, warning against hypocrisy. The Eucharist becomes the ultimate model: Christ, the cheerful giver, offers himself daily in hidden humility. The Homily ends with an invitation to imitate that same abundant and joyful self-giving in all aspects of life.Listen to:Hidden Glory: Seeking God’s Eyes, Not Man’s Praise-----------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the Homily This is why St. Paul punctuates that discussion with the statement God loves a cheerful giver. Not one whose generosity is reluctant or grudging, but one who actually enjoys the act of giving.What a remarkable statement that is. And in speaking that way, he’s not simply instructing us on mere extension of charity. He’s not talking about the giving of gifts; he’s talking about the giving of oneself. Because in the end, that is what we’re talking about, sowing.-----------------------------------------------------------Saint Paul Preaching: Italian Painter: Raphael: 1515Saint Paul preaching the Areopagus Sermon in Athens.-----------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 6: 1-6, 16-18First Reading: 2 Corinthians 9: 6-11
Through Weakness, Grace: The Journey Toward God and HeavenThis Homily begins with Jesus’ saying, “The eye is the lamp of the body,” . . . . . . and uses it to explore how physical sight symbolizes spiritual vision. A personal story about a blind woman illustrates the value of physical sight, but the message moves beyond the literal to focus on spiritual sight . . . our inner vision or life’s goals. Jesus is not merely talking about physical eyes, but about the deeper orientation of our lives.The “eye” symbolizes our internal focus . . . what we aim for in life. People may pursue careers or ambitions, but Jesus calls us to a higher goal: heaven and God. Our actions and decisions should be aligned toward this ultimate end.In Our Weaknesses, God’s Grace Becomes Most VisibleIt’s not enough to set the goal; we must fully commit ourselves to it, offering even our weaknesses to God for transformation. Drawing on St. Paul, the Homily underscores that in our weaknesses, God’s grace becomes most visible.The Homily closes with a challenge: examine your true-life goal, surrender yourself entirely to God, and set your sight firmly on heaven.Listen to:Through Weakness, Grace: The Journey Toward God and Heaven---------------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyOur Lord Jesus Christ is not talking of the eye that we know. He’s talking of something higher than that. And what is this something higher than that? It is life’s goals. The vision where we are going. What is it that we want in life? This is what our Lord Jesus Christ is talking about, and we know all too well that it is the goals that we set, that direct us, that channel us.That is why, Saint Paul in the first reading says, I will boast of my weaknesses, because it is through them that God shows his grace. It is through them that God’s power is shown. Maybe today we ask ourselves, what is our goal in life? It should be heaven. Our goal is God. Knowing our goal is not enough, but are we attuning ourselves to attain this goal?---------------------------------------------------------------------Gates of Heaven: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform: Generative AI Image by Queen of All Hearts What is Generative AI? Generative AI refers to a recent approach in artificial intelligence that involves the creation of AI-generated art. This innovative technique utilizes a potent AI computer to generate images based on textual prompts or instructions. The resulting output is an AI-generated image, representing one interpretation of a given concept, such as the Gates of Heaven in this particular instance.---------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 6: 19-23First Reading: 2 Corinthians 11: 18, 21-30
Take, Bless, Break, Give: Living the Pattern of the Eucharist as a Way of Life This Homily, on the Feast of Corpus Christi, begins by recounting a moving experience from a visit to war-torn Mozambique, . . .. . . where people witnessed the devastating effects of civil war and landmines on the people . . . many of whom were maimed and starving. The Homily continues by describing the compassionate work of a local priest who, embodying Christ’s call to “give them some food yourselves,” shared leftovers with patients in a bombed-out hospital. This encounter becomes a powerful lens for understanding the Eucharist, not just as a sacramental ritual, but as a life pattern.Take, Bless, Break, GiveFocusing on the Gospel and the celebration of the Feast of Corpus Christi (the Body and Blood of Christ), the Homily explains how the four Eucharistic verbs . . . Take, Bless, Break, Give . . . are both liturgical actions and a guide for Christian living.We must recognize our gifts, give thanks, allow ourselves to be changed (broken) so our love and talents become accessible to others, and ultimately give of ourselves for the good of others . . . especially those who suffer.The Eucharist is not an end, but a beginning: a pattern of love and self-offering that mirrors Christ’s own sacrifice.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen toTake, Bless, Break, Give: Living the Pattern of the Eucharist as a Way of Life-------------------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyTake, Bless, Break, Give.These are the four verbs that describe Jesus’ institution of the Eucharist. The four verbs we use every time we come to celebrate mass, and the four actions on which we should pattern our lives.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Christ the Savior with the Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Juan de Juanes: 1545 – 1550This oil-based painting on wood is one of three parts. This part shows Our Lord holding the Eucharist and Chalice-------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 9: 11-17First Reading: Genesis 14:18-20Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 11: 23-26
Beyond Worldly Standards: Measuring Life by God’s Measure Today’s readings urge Christians not to measure their spiritual lives by worldly standards, . . .. . . such as material success or external acts of piety, but instead by the divine standard given by Jesus: “Be perfect as your Heavenly Father is perfect.”The world encourages selective love and reciprocity, but Christ calls His followers to radical love . . . even for enemies . . . and generous self-giving. This perfection is not about being flawless but about striving to love as God loves. The example of the Macedonian churches shows how true generosity flows from first giving oneself to God.Ultimately, the Christian life must be rooted in self-surrender, not in appearances or comparisons. While difficult, this is possible with God’s grace.Hear more in this Meditation Media. Listen toBeyond Worldly Standards: Measuring Life by God’s Measure------------------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyAnd that is the point. Before giving what we have, the most important gift that God can receive is ourselves. The giving of ourselves, and that’s what matters most.------------------------------------------------------------------God the Father Painting: Italian Painter: Giovanni Battista Cima: 1510-1517 Giovanni Battista Cima, known also as Cima da Conegliano. ------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 5: 43-48First Reading: 2 Corinthians 8: 1-9
Authentic Faith: Saying Yes Like Mary, Living Yes Like Christ Today’s Gospel centers on Jesus’ teaching from the Sermon on the Mount: “Let your yes mean yes and your no mean no.”The Homily explores the simplicity and integrity behind this command, contrasting it with human tendencies toward exaggeration, performance, and overpromising . . . especially in spiritual life.Using Mary’s simple response to the angel Gabriel as a model, the Homily emphasizes that God desires authentic faithfulness, not dramatic or self-centered declarations. Baptism itself is built on a series of direct “no’s” (to sin and evil) and “yeses” (to faith in God), illustrating the foundational role of clarity and sincerity in the Christian life.The Homily also draws attention to the constancy of God’s Yes . . . embodied in Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh . . . who remains ever faithful. We are encouraged to rely not on their own fluctuating strength, but on Christ’s steadfast presence and grace.Ultimately, we are called to live out our yes and our no simply and truthfully, anchored in God’s eternal Yes to us.Listen to:Authentic Faith: Saying Yes Like Mary, Living Yes Like Christ---------------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the Homily And certain truth, the anchor of my hope, the anchor of my life, the anchor of my salvation is the yes, the eternal yes of Jesus Christ. The word made flesh and how do I claim it and cling to it? The Lord gives me a very simple answer. Let your yes be real. Don’t worry about justifying it. Just be about living it.---------------------------------------------------------------------One of Several Our Lady of Victory Statues at the OLV Basilica and National Shrine, Buffalo, NY. 1926The white nine feet version on top of the main altar, which is made of marble, was blessed by Pope Pius XI prior to its shipment to NY.---------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 5: 33-37First Reading: 2 Corinthians 5: 14-21
Mother and Member: Mary and the Birth of the Church Today’s Readings explore the profound mystery and significance of the Blessed Virgin Mary . . .. . . as both Mother of God and Mother of the Church, whose motherhood is unlike any other. Mary is presented by God as the answer to the fall of Eve . . . a woman who, through divine grace, gives birth to life rather than death.While Eve’s disobedience ushered in sin, exile, and mortality, Mary’s faithful “yes” to God ushers in the Savior and a new family of redeemed sons and daughters. At the foot of the Cross, Jesus entrusts the beloved disciple to Mary, symbolically extending her motherhood to all believers.She is the City of God, the dwelling place where God’s people find spiritual refuge. Through her, by the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are adopted into divine life and the Church is born. Mary’s motherhood, then, is not only physical but deeply spiritual and universal . . . she is both Mother and Member of the Church, nurturing believers toward eternal life.Listen to:Mother and Member: Mary and the Birth of the Church------------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the Homily To understand Our Lady, one must be willing to pause a moment and consider a pair of impossibilities because the essence of her person, the essence of how the church celebrates her, hinges on our ability to recognize that the impossible by the working of God does in fact become possible. And one of the privileged places where that happens is the life of the blessed mother.She is mother and she is virgin. She gives birth and remains a virgin. She is perpetually virgin and yet she is gloriously mother. She is a creature and yet she bears within her womb, her creator, and brings him to human birth. A creature giving birth to her creator. A mother. And a virgin, and then mysteriously as well.Our Lady is a mother of the church. The mother of the church, and yet she’s also a member of the church. Virgin and mother. Mother and member, a creature who gives birth. To her creator. Note how mysteriously wonderful. All of this is possible only because of the divine agency of Almighty God, and it is these things that are enclosed within the readings that are presented to us today on the feast day of The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of The Church.------------------------------------------------------------------Pentecost: Stain Glass: The Church of St. Therese of Lisieux – Roman Catholic Parish in Montauk, New York------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 19: 25-34First Reading: Genesis 3: 9-15, 20
Unity in Truth: The Foundation of the Church Today’s Readings explore the true nature of Christian unity, . . .. . . emphasizing that unity must be founded on truth, not simply on cooperation or agreement. Drawing from both the words of Jesus in John 17 and the farewell discourse of St. Paul in Acts, the homily warns against false unity based on self-interest or worldly values. True unity is rooted in Christ himself, who is the Truth.Paul models selfless leadership and cautions the early church about those who will seek to exploit the community. His call is not only to church leaders but to every believer . . . to vigilantly guard their hearts and remain grounded in the truth of the gospel. Jesus, in his priestly prayer, does not ask for his church to be successful or influential, but for it to be one in truth, consecrated in him.The Sign and the Source of This UnitySt. Paul stresses that truth is not a personal preference or flexible ideal but is objective, unchanging, and embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. The Eucharist . . . Holy Communion . . . is presented as both the sign and the source of this unity. It is not a personal achievement but a divine gift, integrating each believer into communion with Christ and with one another. Only by conforming our lives fully and purely to Christ can we live in true unity, for unity outside the truth is unity in a lie.Listen to:Unity in Truth: The Foundation of the Church---------------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the Homily I (St. Paul) sought no gain. I sought not to take from you or receive from you, but to give you what I was entrusted to give you, even to the extent of working to support myself when I was among you. So that in my ministry to you, I would not be a burden to you.And when he makes that claim, he doesn’t do that simply to insist on his own credentials or his own goodness. What he is doing is holding forth a standard for all of those who will lead the church as he departs. This is the spirit out of which you must be together. Not seeking first your own benefit, but to contribute what you have been given to contribute, because that is a unity, not founded on self-interest.---------------------------------------------------------------------Saint Paul Writing His Epistles: French Artist: Valentin de Boulogne: 1600s---------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 17: 11-19First Reading: Acts 20: 28-38
As We Are One: Living the Unity of the Trinity Today's Gospel is from John 17, which emphasizes Jesus’ prayer for unity . . .. . . not a worldly unity, but a divine one, mirroring the oneness of the Trinity.The homily contrasts two kinds of unity: being “frozen together” (rigid and superficial) versus being “melted together” (softened and transformed in love). Christian unity must be rooted in two things: unity in truth (faith in Christ’s resurrection and teachings, as exemplified by Paul and St. Boniface) and unity in charity (the way we treat each other with love and mercy).Two Kinds of UnityThrough stories . . . including a child moved by liturgical joy and a teacher inspired by kindness . . . we see how actions grounded in love can powerfully express Christian unity and evangelize others.Ultimately, the message is that unity in truth must melt into unity in love to reflect Christ to the world.Hear more on how we do this in this Meditation Media. Listen to:As We Are One: Living the Unity of the Trinity-----------------------------------------------------------God the Father and the Holy Spirit : Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787)-----------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 17: 20-26First Reading: Acts 22: 30; 23: 6-11
Leadership Rooted in Love: Jesus’ Question to Peter, Our Call Today The Homily centers on two key scripture narratives: . . .. . . Paul’s bold proclamation of the resurrection and Peter’s dialogue with Jesus after the resurrection. Paul, under arrest, uses every opportunity . . . his Jewish heritage and Roman citizenship . . . to proclaim that Jesus is risen. His unwavering faith challenges both religious authorities and societal norms, showing that trials can be transformed into testimonies.Do You Love MeIn the Gospel, Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?”\ . . . each question probing deeper into the nature of Peter’s love, moving from sacrificial love (agape) to friendship (philia). Jesus meets Peter at his level but calls him higher, toward a leadership rooted in self-giving love. True discipleship, and leadership in the Church, requires putting Christ above all . . . above family, possessions, and even livelihood.The Homily concludes by inviting all Christians to follow Paul’s courage and Peter’s transformation: to proclaim Jesus by the way we live, love, and lead, imitating Christ’s sacrificial love.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Leadership Rooted in Love: Jesus’ Question to Peter, Our Call Today--------------------------------------------------------------Quote From the HomilyHe can only be a leader if he becomes, first of all, a disciple of Jesus. And a disciple of Jesus is the one who loves with the love that is sacrificial. This is why at the end, Jesus says to him. Follow me . . . love as I have loved, give up yourself as I have given up yourself. Leadership in the church is a leadership that sacrifices itself for its ship.Oftentimes, the world suggests a view of leadership. That is completely different from the leadership of Jesus because the leadership in the church of Jesus is a leadership that is based on love.--------------------------------------------------------------Pope Peter : Flemish Artist and Painter: Peter Paul Rubens: 1611--------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 21: 15-19First Reading: Acts 25: 13-21
From Resurrection to Mission: The Church Comes Alive The Gospel tells us about the first Pentecost.The Homily begins by emphasizing “what a difference 50 days makes.” It reflects on the transformation between Easter Sunday and Pentecost.This Homily begins with the quiet, unseen resurrection of Jesus and contrasts it with the public, explosive outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. Through biblical imagery and theological reflection, the Homily further draws connections between God’s creative act in Genesis, the Incarnation, the Resurrection, and the Church’s birth at Pentecost.The Birth of the ChurchThe audio highlights how fearful disciples were emboldened by the Spirit to proclaim Christ’s resurrection and how the same Spirit continues to empower the Church today . . . in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, and in every believer.The homily concludes with a call to action, reminding the faithful that, like the early disciples, we also are sent forth to be Christ’s witnesses to the world, transformed by the Spirit and participating in God’s ongoing mission of salvation.Listen to:From Resurrection to Mission: The Church Comes Alive---------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyThey step out of that same door to face thousands who have gathered around where they were. What a remarkable moment that is, that contrast. They were afraid to meet even one person 50 days ago. Thousands have been drawn by the shaking of the ground. By the sound of that wind and the commotion around that building, and so they step out and the world that frightened them is waiting at their door.They didn’t bring the world there. God did. And note how God called them, how God called the world. He did something to his people. That coming of the spirit on the early church on the infant church was such a mighty thing. It drew the attention of a disbelieving world and that world stunned by what is happening, had to see, had to know, had to hear.---------------------------------------------------------------Pentecost : Italian Artist: Duccio di Buoninsegna: 1308The artist is commonly known as just Duccio.---------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 20: 19-23First Reading: Acts 2: 1-11Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 12: 3-7, 12-13
The Power of Unity: A Prayer of Jesus, A Call to UsThis Homily, delivered in the middle of the Novena leading up to Pentecost, . . .. . . centers on three key Christian themes: unity, faithfulness, and eternal hope.The Homily emphasizes that Jesus, in His final prayer, did not ask for power or success for His followers but prayed for their unity . . . a unity modeled after the perfect harmony within the Holy Trinity. This unity reflects God’s nature and serves as a spiritual weapon against division and evil.The first reading highlights faithfulness through the example of Stephen, who, even when facing death by stoning, kept his eyes on heaven and remained united with God, undistracted by his persecutors. His martyrdom serves as a call to remain steadfast in faith, even when confronted by opposition, fear, or discouragement.The Homilist also shares a personal story about facing familial opposition while entering religious formation, illustrating how conviction and trust in God can sustain one through personal trials.Lastly, the second reading is seen as a source of eternal hope, urging believers to long for Christ’s return and to live with a hopeful, enduring faith that reflects in their daily lives.The Homily ends with a prayer asking the Holy Spirit to bring healing, courage, love, unity, and life-giving hope.Hear more on how we do this in this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Power of Unity: A Prayer of Jesus, A Call to Us-----------------------------------------------------------------Quote from the HomilyIn the prayer of Jesus in the gospel, we have heard that Jesus is not praying for their success. He’s not praying that they may have power. What He is praying for is unity among his believers, among those who believe in him! Unity among ourselves. So, the greatest desire of Jesus among his apostles is none other than unity.And the basis of this unity, Jesus says as I am one with you, that they too may also be one. What does that mean? Any community? Any personal individual who lives in unity with the father or with God who lives in love among themselves, that is a reflection of God’s nature. God the Father, God the Son, God, the Holy Spirit, they’re all one, one God, the perfection of unity, and those who live this unity.-----------------------------------------------------------------Transfiguration: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch: 1872Why was this image chosen? Jesus is appearing in His Glory. A Glory He wishes for all of us! For us, our eternal hope is for eternal life and to live with Our Lord in Glory.-----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 17: 20-26First Reading: Acts 7: 55-60
For I Am With You: Living the Presence of Christ The Homily tells us of a recent celebration of the Ascension of Jesus Christ, . . .. . . where the Shrine hosted a group of children and were inspired by their understanding and expressions of faith . . . especially one boy who insightfully described a shrine as a holy place to encounter God and affirmed Christ’s presence in the Eucharist and the Church.The Homily emphasizes that though Jesus ascended, He remains with us in both joy and suffering. Reflecting on the Gospel, the Church highlights Jesus’ promise that mourning will turn into joy, not be replaced by it, likening this to the pain and joy of childbirth. Drawing from both scripture and personal encounters, including a boy expressing feelings of abandonment during hardship, the message calls Christians to live with the deep conviction that Jesus is truly with us . . . always.Faith is not merely spoken but lived, especially during trials, trusting that God is present and in control.Hear more on how we do this in this Meditation Media. Listen to:For I Am With You: Living the Presence of Christ-----------------------------------------------------------Quote from the HomilyThat is the reason why you have to trust God more, and that is the proof that you love God. That even in the challenges in the struggles, there is that conviction that God is with me. God is in control. Many of us may talk about it, but to live. This is not easy. May God help us that we recognize his presence and that we let him lead for He’s in control.-----------------------------------------------------------Jesus the Consolator: Dutch Painter: Carl Bloch: 1875-----------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 16: 20-23First Reading: Acts 18: 9-18
Loving as Jesus Loved: A Challenge and a Consolation The Homily focuses on Jesus’ words from John’ s Gospel 15, . . .. . . where He urges His followers to “remain in me as I remain in you.”This call to dwell in Christ is central to spiritual fruitfulness. Just as branches cannot bear fruit without being connected to the vine, Christians cannot bear spiritual fruit without remaining in Jesus. This abiding is achieved through keeping His commandments, especially the command to love one another as He has loved us . . . a love marked by sacrifice, humility, and divine origin.However, such Christ-like love may not be well received by the world. Jesus warns that the world may hate those who reflect His love, just as it rejected Him. Yet, believers are encouraged to persevere, knowing that their love is not of this world but from heaven.True Christian love will often be misunderstood or even opposed, but disciples are reminded that their example follows Jesus Himself, who was persecuted. The Homily concludes with a prayer for strength to persevere in Christ’s love and to love others as He loved us . . . not with worldly affection, but with divine, sacrificial love.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Loving as Jesus Loved: A Challenge and a Consolation-------------------------------------------------------Quote From The HomilyWe should not expect that they’ll love us back. Some of them will despise us, but we move on because we know that they do not know that the love that we are giving them is not of this world. It is of heaven because we do not belong to this world. We belong to heaven and the love that we give belongs to heaven.-------------------------------------------------------Christ and the Children: Mexican Painter: Juan Urruchi: late 1800s-------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 15: 18-21First Reading: Acts 16: 1-10
Not Just Dying for Freedom, But Living Into It: The Mystery of Memorial Day This Memorial Day Homily discusses the dual nature of the holiday: . . .. . . a time of remembrance and a celebration of life. While modern culture often focuses on barbecues and the start of summer, the core of Memorial Day is about honoring those who gave their lives in service to others. The Homily draws a parallel between the sacrifices of fallen soldiers and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, highlighting the Christian view of true freedom . . . not as personal indulgence, but as the ability to lay oneself down for others.The Homily underscores that freedom and goodness are both fragile and great, demanding sacrifice and vigilance. True greatness comes not from dying for a cause but from living for one, especially when that cause is rooted in truth, goodness, and love.Memorial Day, then, is not just about past sacrifice but about how we live moving forward . . . grateful, purposeful, and committed to values that are greater than ourselves. The liturgy and the Eucharist reinforce this call, as Christ continually offers Himself to us, showing the model of sacrificial love we are to follow.Listen to:Not Just Dying for Freedom, But Living Into It: The Mystery of Memorial Day-------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyWhat a remarkable mystery this is. The laying aside of himself that Jesus uses to save us as we gather here on this day. And we remember that all of those fallen, laid themselves aside too, some reluctantly, some grudgingly, many willingly. But why?Because goodness is worth defending. Goodness is on the one hand. Fragile Freedom on the one hand is very fragile. It can easily be lost, easily misused, easily be taken away, and yet, on the other hand, it is great because it is such a good thing. It calls sacrifice from those who value it. Goodness can easily be lost.Goodness can easily be laid aside. Goodness, on the one hand, has a fragility about it. And yet within that fragility is its greatness because it demands to be defended. It demands to be respected. It calls out from those who value it, the gift even of themselves.-------------------------------------------------Not Just Dying for Freedom, But Living Into It: The Mystery of Memorial Day : AI and Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team: 2025This website showcases masterpieces from centuries of art. Occasionally; the Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team enhances the collection with Artificial Intelligence Art . . . a modern approach to creating art using AI technology. To gain a deeper insight into God’s actions, listen to the accompanying Homily.-------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 15: 26 — 16: 4First Reading: Acts 16: 11-15
The Five Verbs of Faith: How Christ Shapes the Christian LifeThe Gospel message today centers on Jesus’ powerful promise:“If you remain in me, and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be done for you.” But this promise comes with a condition . . . that we remain in Him and allow His words to dwell in us.To remain in Jesus is not a momentary feeling or a Sunday obligation; it means to make a home in Him, to live in constant communion with Him. Jesus uses the image of the vine and the branches to describe our relationship with Him. This image outlines the Christian journey using five key actions: Remain, Bear, Prune, Wither, and Burn.1. Remain: This means to dwell, to abide, to be rooted in Christ daily.2. Bear fruit: The visible fruits are not achievements, but spiritual qualities — love, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control — that flow from remaining in Christ.3. Prune: Even fruitful branches are pruned — trials and challenges refine us, making us more fruitful. It is a necessary and loving part of spiritual growth.4. Wither: When we disconnect from Christ, our spiritual life slowly fades. We lose joy, peace, and the desire for prayer.5. Burn: A branch that continues apart from the vine is eventually lost — this represents the spiritual death that comes from separation from God.The message reminds us that unanswered prayers may not mean God has failed us. Instead, they call us to examine whether we are truly abiding in Christ. When we remain in Him, our desires align with His . . . and what we ask is shaped by His will. This is not a blank check, but a divine alignment. True discipleship means letting Christ live in us so deeply that what we seek is what He already wills to give.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to …The Five Verbs of Faith: How Christ Shapes the Christian Life----------------------------------------------------------------Jesus Teaches the People by the Sea: French Artist and Painter: James Tissot: 1886----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 15: 1-8First Reading: Acts 15: 1-6----------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyThe moment we abide in Christ our will, our desires also bend towards his desires. So we desire what the vine desires, we ask what the vine is going to give us more, especially those that we need. Not those that we want. And if we abide in him and his words abide in us, our desires are his desires, and it is from this that we receive because they are his desires
Jesus Tells Us to Remain in My Love: The True Heart of Christian Life The Church tells us of the Council of Jerusalem, the first ecumenical council of the early Church, . . .. . . which addressed a critical theological question: Must Gentile converts follow the Mosaic Law to become Christians? The council affirmed that Christianity is not merely a continuation of Judaism, but something fundamentally new, centered not on the law of Moses but on the person and love of Jesus Christ.The Homily draws a distinction between living under the law and abiding in Christ’s love, emphasizing that salvation and unity in the Church come through the love of Christ, not through legalistic adherence to the old covenant. The command to “remain in my love” (spoken by Jesus at the Last Supper) is central to Christian life . . . not just visiting or receiving His love occasionally, but abiding in it continually.The Homily also reflects on the Eucharist as the heart of the Church’s life, where believers are not only receivers of Christ’s love, but also are received by Christ. Remaining in His love means living out His command to “love one another as I have loved you.” This abiding love is the source of unity, strength, and mission for the Christian community in a world full of distractions and fear.Listen to:Jesus Tells Us to Remain in My Love: The True Heart of Christian Life----------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyAre we going to remain in the gift that we have been given? Or are we going to leave that gift and live under some lesser thing? The temptation to the lesser thing is real. It’s constant. It never goes away. And so, the remaining the abiding, or as the colic says, the persevering becomes important. It is one thing to embrace the faith.It is another, to live the faith. It is one thing to experience the love of Christ. It is another to remain in that love. And so, we gather here where it is wonderful that we can reflect on this and why? Because that love abides present here in the tabernacle. That one who loves us with the self-same love.----------------------------------------------------The Lord’s Prayer: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886-1896This painting resides at The Brooklyn Museum. ----------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 15: 9-11First Reading: Acts 15: 7-21
Jesus’ Command to Love: The Hardest and Holiest Calling Jesus gives us His commandment to “love one another,” . . .. . . emphasizing that true love, as exemplified by Jesus, is the most difficult yet most essential commandment.Rather than focusing on religious rituals like daily prayer or tithing, Jesus calls for radical, sacrificial love modeled after his own. The Homily underscores that love is only possible through the Holy Spirit and involves humility, equality, and self-giving.The Early ChurchIt also recounts the early Church’s struggle with integrating Gentile believers, particularly at the Council of Jerusalem, where leaders chose not to impose the full burden of Jewish law on Gentile converts . . . except out of love and respect for others’ consciences. The Church’s journey through subsequent theological disputes (e.g., Jesus’ divinity and nature) illustrates that doctrinal clarity often takes centuries, but division still persists today between “conservatives” and “progressives.”The Homily calls for unity in the Church through love empowered by the Holy Spirit, rather than through labels or legalismListen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus’ Command to Love: The Hardest and Holiest Calling-----------------------------------------------------------------Maestà : Italian Artist: Duccio: ( 1311)Jesus giving the Farewell Discourse to his eleven remaining disciples after the Last Supper, croed image from the Maestà by Duccio, c. 1311-----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 15: 12-17First Reading: Acts 15: 22-31-----------------------------------------------------------------Quote From the HomilyAnd yet love is possible only because of the spirit. He says to us, how do we love one another? Look at me the way I have loved you.
Christ the Fulfillment: St. Paul Proclaims the Past, and the Power of the Present The Church marks the midpoint of the Easter season and . . .. . . highlights a shift in the liturgical readings toward Jesus’ teachings during the Last Supper. These teachings serve to deepen the understanding of the mysteries of Christ’s death and resurrection. The Homily emphasizes that these events are not just historical but living realities made present through the liturgy, especially in the Mass.The Decisive Moment in HistorySaint Paul’s speech in the synagogue, in the First Reading, underscores that the entire history of Israel . . . Abraham, Moses, David, the prophets . . . was not merely a buildup to Christ, but served the purpose of revealing Him. Paul proclaims that Jesus’ resurrection is the decisive moment in history, fulfilling and surpassing all that came before.Jesus’ act of washing the disciples’ feet sets the tone for discipleship: humility, service, and fidelity. The Mass is emphasized as the place where Christ’s sacrifice is made present, where believers physically engage with the saving mystery. The upcoming gospel are not just teachings but revelations that invite Christians to enter more deeply into the death and resurrection of Jesus . . . a reality proclaimed and professed in every Eucharist.Listen to:Christ the Fulfillment: St. Paul Proclaims the Past, and the Power of the Present------------------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyWhat a powerful statement that is. That the fulcrum of all of this, the point of all of this, the goal of those many centuries of history of that tortured relationship of Israel with its God, this history of faithfulness and unfaithfulness all comes down to this glorious point now where we see that God has indeed done something unexpected, something marvelous, something new.And so it is. Paul concludes his reflection with those words of John the Baptist. I am not the one. Nothing in the past is the one. There is one who is greater than I, and now Paul announces the one who is greater, the one who is greater than all of the others, is the one who has risen from the dead. The one who is greater, the one who is the reason for all of these other things.------------------------------------------------------------Christ the Savior with the Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Juan de Juanes: 1545 – 1550This oil-based painting on wood is one of three parts. This part shows Our Lord holding the Eucharist and Chalice------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 13: 16-20First Reading: Acts 13: 13-25
Love as Christ Loved: A Higher Standard The Homily examines the commandment of Jesus: “Love one another as I have loved you.”It emphasizes that Christian love must mirror the selfless, sacrificial love of Christ, not merely be based on human sentiment or self-interest. Often, people believe they are acting in love, but if not rooted in the example of Jesus’ love, their actions may unintentionally cause harm . . . like the story of the boys who “rescued” a fish from water, killing it out of misguided compassion.The Homily also urges believers to first experience and understand God’s love personally, because only then can they authentically share it with others. It also ties this concept to the selection of St. Matthias, who was chosen because he had witnessed Jesus’ life and love firsthand, qualifying him to pass it on.The audio concludes with a sobering reminder from St. John of the Cross: in the end, we will be judged by love . . . God’s kind of love, not the world’s. Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Love as Christ Loved: A Higher Standard-----------------------------------------------------A Quote from the HomilyTherefore, today the most important thing is do I feel the love of God in my life? Have I felt this love of God in my life and it is this feeling of the love of God. It is this learning of the love of God that will help us to extend so that we should love others better as Jesus wills, as Jesus wants.Otherwise, what we do is we love other people as we want, and sometimes, and most of the times it’s poisonous.-----------------------------------------------------Jesus Christ: German Artist and Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1894Oil painting currently resides in The Riverside Church, New York City.-----------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 15: 9-17First Reading: Acts 1: 15-17, 20-26
Living Jesus: The Christian Journey ExplainedToday’s Readings emphasizes the exclusivity and centrality of Jesus Christ in Christian faith.This means that while human nature longs for options and multiple paths, scripture is clear that there are only two ways: God’s way and not God’s way.The Homily underscores that Jesus is not merely a guide or teacher but the embodiment of the way, the truth, and the life. Faith in God is inseparable from faith in Jesus, who reveals God fully and is the fulfillment of all of God’s work in history.Further, the audio also highlights how Jesus prepares not just a place for his followers in heaven, but prepares them for that place through faith. It addresses the human tendency to seek certainty through rules or checklists, while Jesus calls for a relationship grounded in faith, trust, and spiritual transformation.The ultimate message is that Christian life is not about following a system of rules, but about living in and through Jesus Christ, who is both the journey and the destination.Listen to:Living Jesus: The Christian Journey Explained---------------------------------------------------------------------A quote from the HomilyThe work of God through the many centuries of human history is focused on Jesus Christ. There is no other focus.I go away to prepare a place for you. And because I am preparing a place for you, I will return.What Exactly Does Jesus Mean?And as he says this, the Lord unpacks a very important mystery. How does the Lord go to prepare a place for us? The place has already been selected. The place is already waiting. What does it mean to say that he goes to prepare a place, but also that he goes that we might be prepared to enter that place?That’s the preparation. It is not the Lord getting heaven ready for us. The place is prepared by the Lord. Getting us ready for heaven. I go away that you might become prepared. I go away. That you might live by faith and not by sight. Notice how this all fits together. Have faith in me and while I go away from you, live by that faith and that living by faith in me is what will prepare you.----------------------------------------------------------------The Ascension of Christ into Glory: Italian Painter: Benvenuto Tisi – also known as Garofalo: 1510This is a cropped image of the artwork.------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 14: 1-6First Reading: Acts 13: 26-33
Seeing the Father Through the Son: A Call to Deep Relationship with Christ This Homily centers on the theme of God’s universal plan for salvation and our personal role in fulfilling it.It begins with the story of Paul and Barnabas, who, after facing rejection from Jewish leaders, turn to preach to the Gentiles, fulfilling God’s inclusive mission. The message underscores that God initially chose Israel to be a light to all nations, but when they failed, He extended His call to others. This pattern repeats in our personal lives: when we fail to live out our calling due to jealousy, pride, or inaction, God will raise others to accomplish His work.The Homily also stresses the need for a personal and transformative relationship with Jesus—not just surface-level faith or religious actions.True discipleship involves knowing Christ deeply, allowing His Spirit to work through us to bring salvation to others.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Seeing the Father Through the Son: A Call to Deep Relationship with Christ.............................................................................Because he has given us the spirit. The spirit, which we, we call in our hearts, call God our Father. Therefore, we are united to God. We are united to Jesus in this moment. When we say to him, Lord, like Peter, where can we go? You have the words of eternal life..............................................................................Image:God the Father and the Holy Spirit : Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787).............................................................................Gospel Reading: John 14: 7-14First Reading: Acts 13: 44-52
Where Else Shall We Go? The Call to Choose Christ This Homily emphasizes the deep spiritual significance of preparing for the sacraments, . . .. . . particularly for young people approaching their first Holy Communion and Confirmation. It draws on the symbolism of wind as the presence of the Holy Spirit and focuses on the example of Saint Peter, the first pope, as a model of faith and clarity.The Homily underscores the challenge of living a Christian life authentically, reminding listeners that while the teachings of Jesus may be difficult, they are ultimately the path to true life and freedom. Through Peter’s bold declaration . . . “Where else shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” . . . the homily also invites young people to reflect on their own choices, the meaning of the sacraments, and their relationship with Jesus and the Church.The Homily ends by highlighting the constancy of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist and the personal invitation He offers to each believer to come forward in faith.Listen toWhere Else Shall We Go? The Call to Choose Christ-------------------------------------------------So, we see this wonderful example that where the church is found healing is found sometimes in miraculous ways.But more frequently in ways that are miraculous, but not so obvious.The healing of the heart, the healing of the mind, the healing of the wounds that come with life, and that’s the big reminder in our first reading. The church is established for the sake of life, for the sake of healing the woundedness of the world and for the sake of guiding us to our true home.-------------------------------------------------Image:Christ Charges Peter: Italian Painter: Raphael: 1515-------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 6: 60-69First Reading: Acts 9: 31-42
Blessed Are Those Who Hear: Honoring Mary by Living the WordWhile Jesus was speaking, a woman from the crowd called out and said to him. Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nest. He replied, rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it. This Homily centers on Luke 11:27-28, where a woman praises Jesus by honoring His mother, . . .. . . but Jesus redirects the blessing to all who hear and keep God’s word. The message clarifies that this isn’t a dismissal of Mary but an affirmation of her faith and obedience, making her blessed not only as Jesus’ mother but as a faithful disciple.The Homily connects this with the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, emphasizing that true honor to Mary lies in imitation—through conversion, repentance, and prayer. A personal story from a retreat in Kenya illustrates how living a life of faith and community can lead others to recognize God’s presence. The story echoes the idea that spiritual motherhood is not biological but rooted in living God’s word, as Mary did.Ultimately, to praise Mary is to glorify God, as she always points to Him.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Blessed Are Those Who Hear: Honoring Mary by Living the Word.........................................................................................The Lord’s Prayer: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886-1896
Seeing with New Eyes: Lessons from Paul and Ananias The election of a new pope, specifically Pope Leo XIV, . . .. . . is seen as a profound new beginning for the Church. Not because the Church had stopped functioning, but because such moments renew the sense of unity and purpose among believers. The joy of his election is contrasted with the heavy burden of leadership he assumes, modeled on the cross of Christ.The homily reflects on how God’s choices often seem surprising . . . like Paul’s conversion from persecutor to apostle. This transformation shows how divine calling changes one’s vision and mission.Likewise, Ananias’s initial fear of Paul reminds us that we all need ongoing conversion, especially to overcome fear, prejudice, and reluctance to welcome others. Ultimately, we are invited to be one with Christ, particularly through the Eucharist, and to embrace both leadership and community with a renewed heart.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Seeing with New Eyes: Lessons from Paul and Ananias -----------------------------------------------------------------image:The Conversion Of Saint Paul: French Painter: Nicolas Bernard Lépicié: late 1700s -----------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 6: 52-59First Reading: Acts 9:1-20
The Real Miracle of the Sun: Hearing and Doing the WordThis conference centers on the events of Fatima, . . .. . . emphasizing the spiritual significance of the Virgin Mary’s appearances to the three shepherd children in 1917. It explores the contrast and connection between seeing and hearing . . . highlighting that although many witnessed the Miracle of the Sun, only three children saw Our Lady, and only two heard her speak.The homily illustrates how the true purpose of these apparitions was not the miraculous visuals, but the message conveyed . . . calling for prayer, penance, and intercession for sinners. The different reactions and missions of Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco demonstrate how divine encounters can shape lives differently yet purposefully.Ultimately, it may be argued that Mary appears not to be seen, but to be heard, and that the real miracle is the lived response to her message . . . one that brings the light of Christ into the world through personal holiness and compassionate concern for others.Listen more about this conference. Listen toThe Real Miracle of the Sun: Hearing and Doing the Word................................................................................................image:The crowd at Cova da Iria looking towards the Sun on 13 October 1917Source Wikipedia
The Apostles’ Witness: Our Questions, Christ’s AnswerThis Homily reflects on the deep significance of the apostles’ witness . . .. . . not merely as conveyors of Jesus’ teachings, but as those who voiced the questions all hearts ask, receiving direct answers from Christ for the benefit of all future believers. It centers around a Gospel reading from the Last Supper where Jesus emphasizes his oneness with the Father, asserting that to know him is to truly know God.Praying “in Jesus’ Name”Jesus prepares his apostles for their mission after his resurrection, entrusting them to act and speak in his name. The homily clarifies that praying “in Jesus’ name” is not a formula for guaranteed results but a call to be united in faith, to pray in his spirit, and to live in alignment with his will.Only then does prayer truly become effective. The homily also encourages the faithful to embrace the apostolic mission: to be Christ’s presence in the world through unity, witness, and authentic prayer.Listen more to:The Apostles’ Witness: Our Questions, Christ’s Answer----------------------------------------------------------------------Image:The Exhortation to the Apostles: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886Part of the online collection of the Brooklyn Museum.----------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 14: 6-14First Reading: 1 Corinthians 15: 1-8----------------------------------------------------------------------One of the things that is important to take into account with regard to the witness of the apostles is not simply that their preaching goes out to the entire world and that they heard things from Jesus that they pass on to us, but that they had the privilege and very important position of asking the questions that our hearts naturally have.
Do You Love Me? Jesus Tells Us of The Journey to Deeper Discipleship This Homily reflects on the spiritual growth of the apostles, . . .. . . especially Peter, after the resurrection of Jesus. The message begins by highlighting the disciples’ joy in suffering “for the Name,” signifying their deep identification with God through Christ. The first Christian preachers boldly proclaimed Jesus as the crucified and risen Messiah, calling listeners to acknowledge their role in His rejection.The homily then transitions to the Gospel story of Peter returning to fishing . . . an act of seeking clarity and reconciliation with his past after the tumultuous events of Jesus’ death and resurrection.This return to the beginning becomes a metaphor for the spiritual life: casting nets in the dark, yearning for God, and finally encountering Christ at dawn. Peter’s recognition of Jesus and his eagerness to reach Him illustrates a heart moved by love.Jesus Draws Out Peter’s Deepest Love and CommitmentThe Homily culminates in the intimate dialogue between Jesus and Peter, where Jesus asks three times, “Do you love me?” . . . drawing out Peter’s deepest love and commitment. This transformative encounter reveals that true discipleship involves persistent self-examination, openness to Christ’s probing love, and a renewed call to follow Him with depth and authenticity.Listen more about this Journey. Listen toDo You Love Me? Jesus Tells Us of The Journey to Deeper Discipleship---------------------------------------------------------------Image:Christ Appears on the Shore of Lake Tiberias: French painter: James Tissot: 1886---------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 21: 1-19First Reading: Acts 5: 27-32, 40-41Second Reading: Revelation 5: 11-14
From Bread to Belief: Seeing Jesus as the Giver Behind the GiftThis Homily on John Chapter 6 explores the deeper spiritual meaning behind Jesus’ miracles, . . .. . . particularly the multiplication of loaves and fishes and his walking on water. The commentary contrasts the emptiness of worldly provisions, symbolized by the Roman emperor Tiberius, with the true sustenance that comes from Christ.It emphasizes that the miracles are not ends in themselves but signs pointing to Jesus’ divine identity. The people, however, focus on the physical benefits and miss the deeper spiritual reality.The Lord challenges them . . . and us . . . not to seek God merely for material blessings, but to move from appreciating the gifts to knowing and loving the Giver. The ultimate “work of God” is not action, sacrifice, or ritual, but faith in Jesus Christ . . . the one sent by God. This belief is the cornerstone of spiritual life and the foundation upon which everything else is built.Hear more within the Homily. ------------------------------------------------------------------ImageThe Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes: Italian painter: Giovanni Lanfranco: 1620The painting was commissioned for and may be found in the Blessed Sacrament chapel in the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome.
The Bread of Life in a Time of Struggle The Homily highlights the mysterious growth of the Church and Christian faith, . . .. . . especially through suffering and persecution. It begins by recalling how the Sanhedrin believed killing Jesus would end His movement, unaware that His resurrection would spark the beginning of Christianity. Similarly, early Christians, even when persecuted, chose to remain faithful, leading to the spread of the gospel.The message emphasizes that challenges and suffering, when seen through the lens of faith, can deepen belief and spread hope. Citing the example of saints like Stephen and the teachings of Jesus, particularly His identity as the “Bread of Life,” the Homily concludes with a call to trust in God’s plan during trials, affirming that God is always in control and working through our struggles for a greater purpose.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: The Bread of Life in a Time of Struggle-------------------------------------------------------------------------ImageThe Last Supper – The First Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Vicente Juan Masip: 1562The image is a cropped image focusing on The Bread of Life.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 6: 35-40First Reading Acts 8: 1-8
Judas and Mary (of Bethany): Two Hearts Before the Mystery of Christ The Readings and Homily reflect on the profound spiritual themes leading up to Holy Week, . . .. . . beginning with the “Suffering Servant” songs from the Book of Isaiah. It emphasizes the divine calling and mission of the servant, who acts with God’s authority yet reveals God’s power through humility and suffering . . . not through miracles or displays of strength. This foreshadowing prepares believers for the mystery of Good Friday, where Jesus . . . God in the flesh . . . embraces suffering to redeem the world.An Act of Love and DevotionThe Homily then shifts to the Gospel scene in Bethany, where Mary (of Bethany) anoints Jesus with costly perfume. Her act is one of love, devotion, and prophetic insight into Jesus’ coming Passion. Judas objects, claiming the perfume should’ve been sold to help the poor, but his motives are exposed as self-serving. The Homily warns that words can hide wicked intentions and calls out the tendency to misuse faith for personal gain—something Judas exemplifies.Contrasting Judas with Mary , the Homily encourages believers to adopt Mary’s posture of heartfelt reverence and presence with Christ, especially during Holy Week and the Eucharist. The faithful are urged not to be distracted by lesser concerns when Christ is present but to attend to Him with gratitude, love, and worship.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Judas and Mary (of Bethany): Two Hearts Before the Mystery of Christ-----------------------------------imageThe Anointing of Jesus’ Feet: French Painter: James Tissot: 1900This painting resides at The Brooklyn Museum. Other Tissot paintings appear on this site here and here.-----------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 12: 1-11First Reading: Isaiah 42: 1-7
Je Vous Salue, Marie: In Honor of Feast Day of St. Louis de Montfort At the end of the most recent Feast Day of St. Lous de Montfort, . . .. . . the Queen of All Hearts Music Minstry surprised the priests by singing this song n French. The words may be displayed by selecting the description below. Join in the celebration of the founder of the Company of Mary.Listen to:Je Vous Salue, Marie: In Honor of Feast Day of St. Louis de Montfort---------------------------------------------------------------Madonna at Prayer: Italian Painter: Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato : 1609-1685The painting now resides in Florence, Italy.
The Queen of All Hearts: Mary’s Role in Building the Body of Christ This conference emphasizes the deeply communal and celebratory nature . . .. . . of Christian spirituality, rooted in the victory of Jesus Christ over sin and death. It highlights that this victory is not merely individual but shared among all believers, particularly through their connection with Mary, the Mother of Jesus.Montfort underscores that Christian salvation cannot be isolated; to belong to Christ is to belong to His Church—His body—and by extension, to Mary, who is inseparably united with Jesus and His mission.Through the lens of St. Louis de Montfort’s spirituality, especially the act of total consecration to Jesus through Mary, this belonging is not only personal but ecclesial and missional. It involves receiving Mary into one’s life as one’s “every good,” allowing her to guide and order the heart, which leads to a deeper participation in the life and mission of the Church.The creation of the Association of Mary Queen of All Hearts serves as a concrete expression of this spirituality, offering a communal structure where consecrated individuals can grow, pray, and serve together. The ultimate aim is the reign of Jesus through Mary in every heart, a vision that also inspired the foundation of the Marian shrine on Long Island.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: The Queen of All Hearts: Mary’s Role in Building the Body of Christ--------------------------------------------------------------Something different, which is this radical act of belonging.And it is this radical act of belonging to our Lord, to Our Lady, and therefore to His Church that we seek to grow in. And the mission that he would see for an organization like this is literally the propagation of this deeper belonging out into the world.And that’s what he means by the reign of Jesus through Mary. The very first sentence in the text we have from his work that we call True Devotion is it is through the Virgin Mary that Jesus . . .
From Silence to Glory: The Mystery of Easter This Homily reflects on the liturgy of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, . . .. . . emphasizing how Scripture readings during the Easter vigil narrate the entire history of God’s love for humanity. It traces the journey from creation and fall, through the Exodus, prophetic calls to return to God, and finally to the New Testament, culminating in Christ’s death and resurrection.A Theological InsightA significant theological insight is given about Holy Saturday—often overlooked—as the most mysterious moment, where God, through Jesus, enters death and silence. Jesus, though sinless, experiences death, breaking its power. His resurrection becomes the ultimate hope and promises for all baptized believers, affirming God’s presence even in suffering and death.The Homily encourages joy, hope, and gratitude in the Easter celebration.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:From Silence to Glory: The Mystery of Easter----------------------------------For those that visit the QoAH's website for this post, you'll see a restored statue.Regina Caeli, the Queen of Heaven, and the Lady of Easter JoyAllow me to introduce you to a cherished figure in our community. This statue has been with us for ten years, originally hand-carved in Peru. She is traditionally adorned for various feast days and holds a special place in our celebrations.However, over time, the paint had deteriorated to such an extent that even the slightest contact would cause it to flake away. A few weeks ago, we made the decision to send her for professional restoration, with the hope that she would return in time for Easter—and we are pleased to say she did.She now stands before us with a beautifully restored appearance, complete with a new halo and freshly painted garments. We now honor her asRegina Caeli, the Queen of Heaven, and the Lady of Easter Joy.
Peter’s Journey and Ours: Seeing, Believing, Following Today the Church celebrates Easter . . .. . . as the central feast of Christianity, highlighting the Resurrection of Jesus Christ as the foundation of faith. Today’s Gospel explains how the Resurrection gives believers new spiritual vision, reveals the truth of life beyond death, and confirms the truth of Jesus’ teachings.The Homily emphasizes transformation, particularly using Peter’s journey from denial to bold witness. A parable about a caged snake illustrates the idea that while evil has been defeated through Christ, it still poses a threat if people seek it out.Ultimately, the Homily calls for followers to embrace the path Jesus laid out and let the power of the Resurrection shape their lives.Listen to this Meditation Meda. Listen to: Peter’s Journey and Ours: Seeing, Believing, Following----------------------------------------------Image:The Disciples Peter and John Running to the Sepulchre on the Morning of the Resurrection: Swiss Painter: Eugène Burnand: 1898This painting is also known by its shorten name, The Disciples. Now residing in Paris, it was not well received when it was first presented. But look at the painting again. It is truly remarkable! Look at the hands of the younger disciple in anticipation. He holds his hands together anxiously. Look at Peter’s expression. He looks both terrified and hopeful. The artist captures the emotion and the movement of the disciples. How truly wonderful and appropriate for this Meditation piece.----------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 20: 1-9
Public Faith, Private Strength: Living as Children of GodThe Homily begins by reflecting on the daily act of making choices, . . .. . . beginning with a personal story about struggling to wake up early for school. This serves as a metaphor for the broader and more meaningful choices we face in life, such as choosing to be kind, forgiving, and generous. However, the most crucial decision is choosing God.God’s ChildrenChoosing God brings not only spiritual benefits, such as being gathered, cleansed, and made into God’s children, but also emotional strength and confidence . . . much like the boost we feel when a parent is present and supportive. The Homily continues and draws parallels between this and recognizing God’s constant presence.We hear briefly the biblical story of Jesus raising Lazarus, and true faith requires more than good works; it demands a public and unwavering profession that Jesus is the Son of God. This faith should be visible even in ordinary moments, like praying before meals in public. The season of Lent is highlighted as a special time to renew this choice for God, affirming that only in Him do we find true fulfillment and salvation.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Public Faith, Private Strength: Living as Children of God------------------------------------image:God The Father (cropped): Spanish Painter: Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, 1618-1682------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 11: 45-56First Reading: Ezekiel 37: 21-28
The Lord Who Orders Time: Letting Jesus Christ Be First in All This Homily explores the profound theological claim made by Jesus in the Gospel . . . . . . that He is not simply another figure in the historical lineage of Israel (like Abraham, Moses, or the prophets), but rather the origin and end of all history. It challenges our typical understanding of cause and effect, flipping our view of history upside down: Jesus, though born in time, precedes all things as the eternal Word.The homily urges believers to recognize that Jesus is not the product of human history, but the source of it. Everything in salvation history . . . from Abraham’s call to the prophets’ proclamations . . . exists because of Christ.Everything in Salvation HistoryThis revelation proves difficult, even offensive, to those who thought they understood God and themselves. The discomfort arises because Jesus demands the highest place in our hearts, above all else: family, tradition, identity, or even goodness itself. To sin is to elevate something lesser above Christ.Thus, the message ends with a call to reorder our loves and priorities, especially as Lent concludes—acknowledging Jesus as the beginning, the fulfillment, and the only true healer of our hearts. His journey to The Cross was no accident, but a chosen act of love for our salvation.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to …The Lord Who Orders Time: Letting Jesus Christ Be First in All------------------------------------------------------image:Jesus Christ: German Artist and Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1894Oil painting currently resides in The Riverside Church, New York City.
Obedience and Freedom: Discovering Your True Self in Jesus ChristThis Homily explores Jesus’ message from the Gospel where He declares that those who believe in Him . . .. . . will find freedom through truth . . . truth that is found in Him. Jesus teaches that sin enslaves, but by remaining in Him, one can be set free. This freedom is not simply the ability to do whatever one pleases, but the freedom to live rightly, to find peace even with past mistakes, and to become one’s true self.Choosing to Obey GodThe homily also highlights the example of the three young men in the fiery furnace who chose to obey God over man . . . even if it meant death. Their statement, “even if God does not save us, we will still not worship your gods,” emphasizes a faith not based on outcomes but on unwavering trust in God’s goodness. True freedom, then, is the ability to remain faithful, regardless of circumstances, anchored in the trust that God’s will is always good.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Obedience and Freedom: Discovering Your True Self in Jesus Christ-------------------------------------------- image:Christ And The Rich Young Ruler (cropped): German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1899-------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: John 8: 31-42First Reading: Daniel 3: 14-20, 91-92, 95
Reigning Through Love: Jesus’ True Model of Leadership in Holy Week Today the Church marks the beginning of the celebration of the Paschal Mysteries . . .. . . Christ’s suffering, death, burial, resurrection, ascension, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. It emphasizes two key themes from the Gospel of Luke:-1- Jesus as a Humble King: Unlike worldly leaders who often seek power at the expense of others, Jesus demonstrates a kingship rooted in humility, love, and self-sacrifice. His leadership resonates with the hearts of the people, offering them hope and salvation.-2- Jesus’ Innocence and the Eucharistic Kingdom: Luke highlights Jesus’ innocence repeatedly throughout His Passion. From Pilate, Herod, a repentant thief, and a Roman centurion—all recognize His blamelessness. Despite being unjustly condemned, Jesus offers Himself through the Eucharist, declaring, “This is my body… this is my blood.” His innocent sacrifice brings redemption to all.We are reminded that true leadership mirrors Christ . . . leading with compassion and integrity. And ultimately, our salvation lies not in our own righteousness but in the innocent sacrifice of Jesus.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Reigning Through Love: Jesus’ True Model of Leadership in Holy Week-----------------------------------------------------------image:Behold the Man: Ecce Homo: Hungarian Painter: Mihály Munkácsy: 1896
After Completing the First 5 Weeks of Lent: Preparing for the Actual Mystery of Holy Week: Lenten Conference #6 Entering the Mystery: A Journey Through Holy WeekThis is Part 1 of this conference, given just before Holy Week.The conference delves deeply into the liturgical, historical, and spiritual significance of the days leading up to and including the Triduum: Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and the beginning of the Easter celebration.Key themes include:• The centrality of Easter Sunday in Christian life, considered the most important holy day from which all others flow.• Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion, highlighting the liturgy’s symbolic movements and how they transition the faithful from celebration to solemnity.• The significance of movement and ritual, such as the procession and the use of physical gestures like kneeling and walking to mirror spiritual journeys.• Holy Thursday, particularly the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, the institution of the Eucharist, the washing of feet, and the transition from Lent into the Paschal Triduum.• Good Friday, emphasizing the unique nature of the day—its silence, absence of the Mass, and focus on the priesthood and sacrifice of Christ.The reflection weaves theological insight with liturgical instruction, urging the faithful to enter into the mysteries of the Passion with body, mind, and spirit.Listen to this Lenten Season Friday Devotional Conference: Listen to Part 1 …After Completing the First 5 Weeks of Lent: Preparing for the Actual Mystery of Holy Week: Lenten Conference #6--------------------------------------------image:Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes.--------------------------------------------Note:This marks the Sixth and Final Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. Select the Friday Lenten Season Link below to see all conferences captured to date.--------------------------------------------This Audo is Part 1 of 2.
After Completing the First 5 Weeks of Lent: Preparing for the Actual Mystery of Holy Week: Lenten Conference #6: Part 2 In Silence and Fire: Encountering Christ in the Holy Days This is Part 2 of this conference, given just before Holy Week.This conference continues by capturing a rich and passionate reflection on the liturgical depth and spiritual symbolism of the Good Friday and Easter celebrations within the Catholic Church. We are led within a powerful journey through the Paschal Triduum, beginning with the veiling and gradual unveiling of the crucifix during the Good Friday liturgy. This ritual highlights the unfolding mystery of Christ’s passion, encouraging believers to first understand, pray, and unite their hearts with Jesus’ sacrificial love before visually encountering the cross.The Good Friday LiturgyThe Good Friday liturgy is marked by solemn intercessions for all humanity, affirming the universal reach of Christ’s redemptive act. The veneration of the single crucifix serves as a profound moment of communal reverence, underscoring the singularity of Christ’s sacrifice.The Easter Vigil is celebrated with grandeur and symbolism—starting with the blessing of a new fire and the lighting of the Paschal candle, representing the risen Christ. Through light, scripture, and sacramental renewal, the liturgy transitions the faithful from darkness to light, death to resurrection. This includes the renewal of baptismal vows and the sprinkling with holy water, symbolically cleansing the ashes of Lent and marking spiritual rebirth.The Church also reflects on the value of sitting in silence before an empty tabernacle on Holy Saturday morning, recognizing the rare spiritual weight of absence. The entire experience is portrayed as an invitation to deeper renewal, awareness, and joyful participation in the mysteries of faith.Listen to this Lenten Season Friday Devotional Conference: Listen to Part 2 …After Completing the First 5 Weeks of Lent: Preparing for the Actual Mystery of Holy Week: Lenten Conference #6------------------------------------------------------Image:Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes.------------------------------------------------------Note:This marks the Sixth and Final Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. Select the Friday Lenten Season Link below to see all conferences captured to date.------------------------------------------------------Part 2 of 2
Veiling the Mystery: Passiontide: Why the Church Covers the Cross Before EasterThis Homily explains the Catholic tradition of covering statues and crucifixes . . .. . . during the final part of Lent, known as Passiontide. The veiling symbolizes the Church’s recognition that we do not yet fully understand the mystery of Christ’s cross and passion. The action of covering — and later unveiling — represents a spiritual journey from blindness to sight, ignorance to understanding, and distance to intimacy with Jesus. Hear more within the media.The Church emphasizes that while humans often think they know and understand Jesus, true knowledge of Him requires humility and openness. The passion readings reveal this struggle, with examples like Jeremiah’s persecutors, the divided crowd confronting Jesus, and Nicodemus — a figure caught between belief and doubt. Ultimately, the cross acts like a key: only through its mystery can we unlock a fuller understanding of Jesus, His mission, and our faith.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:------------------------------------------Image:Veiling the Mystery: Passiontide: Why the Church Covers the Cross Before EasterNotice the purple coverings of the Cross and other icons on the altar.------------------------------------------Gospel Reading John 7: 40-53First Reading Jeremiah 11: 18-20
Gardens of Trial: From Eden to Daniel’s Vindication of SusannaThe Homily explores the theme of testimony and witness in Scripture, . . .. . . particularly focusing on the story of Susanna from the Book of Daniel and its parallels to other biblical narratives. The homily highlights that to “testify” means to bear witness, often in challenging situations. It draws comparisons between Susanna’s trial in the garden and the story of Adam and Eve, illustrating how gardens in Scripture symbolize both innocence and testing. The Homily also explains how this impacts our own Spiritual Journey.Susanna faces the corrupt testimony of two elders, paralleling Satan’s deceit in Eden. Despite being threatened, she chooses faithfulness over survival, trusting in God’s justice rather than succumbing to sin. Daniel’s intervention represents the arrival of new wisdom and God’s vindication of the righteous. The reflection challenges believers to resist compromise, remain faithful even in exile (spiritual or physical), and to discern truth beyond appearances.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Gardens of Trial: From Eden to Daniel’s Vindication of Susanna-------------------------------------------------image:Daniel Saving Susanna: French Artist and Painter: François Pascal Simon Gérard: 1770-1837-------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading John 8: 12-20First Reading Daniel 13: 1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62
When Human Love Falls Short, God’s Love Remains To better understand the first reading, it’s important to grasp its context: . . .. . . the people of Israel are in exile, living under Babylonian oppression. Years have gone by, and their suffering shows no sign of ending. Their dream of returning to Jerusalem feels more distant than ever. In their discouragement, they begin to grumble: “We have sinned. God has abandoned us. We are stuck here in exile forever, without hope.”But into this despair, God speaks through the prophet with a powerful message of comfort and hope:“I have not forgotten you. I will not abandon you. I will come to save you.”The Prophet Speaks of God Using the Image of a MotherRemarkably, the prophet speaks of God using the image of a mother. Think about it — if we were asked, “Who loves you the most?” many of us would probably say, “My mother.” A mother’s love is often the first and deepest love we experience.But God goes even further. God says: “If you think a mother’s love is strong, multiply that love a thousand times… then multiply it again a thousand times more. Even if human love fails — even if a mother were to forget her child — my love for you will never fail. I will always come back for you. I will always save you.”This is the same message we encounter in today’s Gospel. Jesus says: “My Father is always at work, and I too am working.” And what is the work of the Father? It is to give life. Jesus continues that work — offering life, healing, and salvation.Jesus tells us how we can receive this life:first, by listening to His word; and second, by believing in the One who sent Him. This is the path to eternal life. Even in death, those who have heard His word and believed will live.This is the invitation given to us in this Lenten season — to listen deeply to God’s word and to believe in His love. Because God is love. And our prayer is that we, too, may be filled with that same love — a love that never fails, never forgets, and always saves.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:When Human Love Falls Short, God’s Love Remains----------------------------------Image:God the Father and the Holy Spirit : Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787)----------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 5: 17-30First Reading: Isaiah 49: 8-15
Mary at the Foot of The Cross: Lenten Conference #5 The conference reflects on Mary at the Foot of The Cross, encouraging believers to deepen their relationship with God as Easter approaches. The listeners are invited to examine their spiritual progress and open their hearts to God’s love, mercy, and presence.The meditation draws parallels between three biblical moments involving Mary:-1- The Wedding at Cana – where Mary initiates Jesus’ public ministry by asking him to perform his first miracle.-2- Calvary (The Cross) – where Mary stands by Jesus during his crucifixion, showing total obedience and love.-3- The Garden of Eden – where sin entered the world through the disobedience of Adam and Eve, which is reversed by the obedience of Jesus (the new Adam) and Mary (the new Eve) on the Cross.Mary’s presence at both Cana and Calvary highlights her symbolic and spiritual role. At Cana, she helps bring joy through wine; at Calvary, she participates in the ultimate sacrifice as Jesus gives himself—and his mother—to humanity.Mary and the EucharistThe meditation also explores the deep connection between Mary and the Eucharist. As the mother of Jesus, Mary is called the “Woman of the Eucharist” by St. John Paul II. Just as she bore Jesus physically, she invites us to receive him spiritually in the Eucharist. Her fiat (“let it be done”) is echoed when we say “Amen” during Communion, accepting Jesus into our lives.The reflection ends with a poetic hymn about Mary’s Sorrow at the Cross, inviting believers to share in her suffering and love, and to live lives of deeper faith and union with Christ.Listen to this Lenten Season Friday Devotional Conference: Listen to …Mary at the Foot of The Cross: Lenten Conference #5-------------------------------------------------image:Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes.-------------------------------------------------Note:This marks the Fifth Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. Select the Friday Lenten Season Link below to see all conferences captured to date.
From Weakness to Grace: The Gift of Repentance and Drawing Closer to God The readings emphasize the beauty of repentance . . .. . . and the opportunity to grow closer to God, especially during the Lenten season. It highlights how prayer, charity, and self-reflection help bridge the gap between humanity and God. The closer we draw to God, the more we recognize our weaknesses and our need for His grace.The Parable of the Prodigal SonThe Gospel Reading reflects on God’s patience, contrasting it with human impatience. It uses biblical narratives, such as the Israelites’ journey to the Promised Land and the parable of the prodigal son, to illustrate God’s mercy and unwavering love. Jesus, like Joshua, leads believers to a greater Promised Land—God’s kingdom. Despite human failings, God eagerly awaits our return, offering grace and reconciliation.The Homily urges believers not to take God’s patience for granted but to respond to His mercy by seeking Him earnestly.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:From Weakness to Grace: The Gift of Repentance and Drawing Closer to God------------------------------------Image: The Return of the Prodigal Son: Dutch Artist and Painter: Rembrandt: 1661
God’s Enduring Love: A Lesson from the Prophet Hosea During This Lenten Season The Book of Hosea, one of the Minor Prophets, . . .. . . delivers a profound message about the relationship between God and Israel, depicted as a husband and wife.Though Israel turned away from God to worship idols, God remained faithful and sought reconciliation. This message is relevant to all believers, especially during Lent, prompting self-reflection on modern-day “idols” such as wealth, status, and personal image. Jesus affirms that God alone should be worshipped, and once He is placed at the center of life, everything else—including relationships—falls into place.True love for God leads to genuine love for others, making faith the foundation of strong relationships and spiritual fulfillment.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:God’s Enduring Love: A Lesson from the Prophet Hosea During This Lenten Season--------------------------------------------Image:The Prophet Hosea: Italian Painter: Duccio di Buoninsegna: 1309–1311 --------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Mark 12: 28-34First Reading Hosea 14: 2-10
Persevering Through Lent: Rising After We Fall At the beginning of Lent, many approach the season with enthusiasm, setting spiritual goals and making promises.However, as time passes, some may struggle or fall short of their commitments. The Church encourages perseverance, reminding believers that even if they falter, they should rise and continue their journey in faith.Lent is a Time of Spiritual RenewalLent is a time of spiritual renewal, symbolized by its Old English root meaning “springtime,” signifying growth and blossoming. By embracing the three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and charity—souls can flourish and deepen their connection with God.The readings emphasize obedience to God’s commandments. Moses instructed the Israelites to follow and teach God’s laws, as keeping them not only grants life but also identifies believers as God’s children. Jesus reinforces this by affirming that He came not to abolish but to fulfill the law. His life serves as the ultimate guide to living out God’s commandments.Lent calls for humility and commitment, urging believers to allow Jesus to lead them. By doing so, they can experience true spiritual renewal, drawing closer to God and flourishing in faith.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to: Persevering Through Lent: Rising After We Fall-------------------------------------------Image: Christ Bearing the Cross: Spanish Painter: Bartolomé Estebán Murillo: 1665 – 1675 -------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Matthew 5: 17-19First Reading Deuteronomy 4: 1, 5-9
Strengthening Our Spiritual Journey: Prayerful Lessons from the Gospel of Matthew This Homily reflects on the significance of the Lord’s Prayer (from Matthew 6) . . .. . . in the context of Lent, emphasizing the three key Lenten practices: fasting, prayer, and almsgiving. It highlights Jesus’ teachings on sincere prayer, warning against hypocrisy and meaningless repetition.The Lord’s PrayerThe Lord’s Prayer is broken into six petitions—three directed toward God (honoring His name, welcoming His kingdom, and doing His will) and three concerning human needs (daily sustenance, forgiveness, and guidance from temptation).The passage stresses the necessity of aligning one’s will with God’s, seeking daily grace, sharing with those in need, and embracing forgiveness. The Homily also discusses reliance on the Holy Spirit for spiritual strength and deeper prayer life during Lent.Listen to this Meditation Media Listen to:Strengthening Our Spiritual Journey: Prayerful Lessons from the Gospel of Matthew------------------------------------Image:Madonna at Prayer: Italian Painter: Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato : 1609-1685The painting now resides in Florence, Italy.------------------------------------Gospel Reading Matthew 6: 7-15First Reading Isaiah 55: 10-11
Silent Strength: Lessons from St. Joseph, Spouse of Mary Today’s Gospel focuses on St. Joseph.As you know, there are several feasts honoring St. Joseph, while today the focus is on his role as the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. While there are other celebrations—such as St. Joseph the Worker and the Feast of the Holy Family—this occasion highlights his character as a husband and spiritual leader.St. Joseph is portrayed as a silent, obedient, and just man, whose actions reflect deep listening to God, mercy over rigid justice, and courage in protecting his family. The message draws attention to his quiet strength, righteousness with compassion, and fatherly leadership, offering a powerful example for men and fathers today. Pope Francis also recognized St. Joseph’s role by declaring a special dedication to him and shifting Father’s Day to align with Joseph’s celebration.Ultimately, St. Joseph is upheld as a model of humility, mercy, courage, and spiritual attentiveness—qualities essential for family life and Christian leadership.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toSilent Strength: Lessons from St. Joseph, Spouse of Mary--------------------------------------------image:The Dream of Saint Joseph: French Painter: Philippe de Champaigne: 1642--------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Matthew 1: 16, 18-21, 24First Reading 2 Samuel 7: 4-5, 12-14, 16Second Reading Romans 4: 13, 16-18, 22
Awakened by Grace: Lent as a Call to Deeper AwarenessA group of retreatants, after completing their retreat and visiting a shrine, . . .. . . were asked by a priest whether they had become holier or could now avoid sin entirely. They honestly responded that they couldn’t make such promises but shared that the retreat had made them more aware—of themselves, their surroundings, and their relationship with God.The Homily emphasizes that Lent is a time for spiritual awakening, a call to grow closer to God and to examine our inner lives and the world around us. Lent reminds us that everything we have is a gift, lent to us by God, and our responsibility is to use these gifts—including life itself—to glorify Him.The Gospel parable of the landowner and the tenants is used to illustrate God’s love and generosity, and the importance of responding to this love with faithfulness and gratitude. In essence, Lent challenges us to recognize God’s grace, examine our response to it, and strive to live more intentionally and gratefully.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Awakened by Grace: Lent as a Call to Deeper Awareness-----------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading Matthew 21:33-43, 45-46First Reading Genesis 37: 3-4, 12-13, 17-28
The Seven Last Words of Jesus From The Cross: Lenten Conference #3 From Mercy to Completion: A Journey Through the Seven Last Words This conference is a theological reflection centered on the Seven Last Words of Jesus on the Cross, . . .. . . contemplated as we Prepare Our Hearts for Holy Week observances. This reflection emphasizes the theological and spiritual significance of these words, portraying them not merely as the last utterances of a dying man but as intentional, revelatory statements that encapsulate God’s mercy, justice, and salvific plan.Key themes include: The weight of last words and how they convey enduring significance. Jesus as the full revelation of God, more than just the Bible as a text. The Cross as both pulpit and altar, a place of suffering and profound proclamation. The structure and liturgical framing of Jesus’ crucifixion within the hours of prayer, aligning with scriptural tradition. The seven words reveal both divine truth and human nature, each framed by prayer and deeply meaningful:1. “Father, forgive them…” – a prayer of mercy.2. “Today you will be with me in paradise” – a gift of salvation to the repentant.3. “Woman, behold your son…” – establishing new spiritual relationships.4. “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” – the cry of all human suffering.5. “I thirst” – expressing a longing to fulfill God’s will.6. “It is finished” – the completion of redemption.7. “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit” – returning to divine rest.The conference weaves biblical symbolism, liturgical tradition, and pastoral insight, helping us all to understand that these words were not only spoken to those present but continue to speak across time to all humanity.Listen to this Lenten Season Friday Devotional Conference: Listen to …The Seven Last Words of Jesus From The Cross: Lenten Conference #3*******Image:Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes.*******Note:This marks the Third Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. Select the Friday Lenten Season Link below to see all conferences captured to date.*********What is the mystery of faith?We proclaim your death and profess your resurrection until you come, …. and there is various formula by which we say that, but the sentiment is all the same.The mystery of faith is the victorious death and resurrection of the Lord who will come again. And so, then if we look at The Cross as the high point of revelation, it is not simply then a matter of saying that’s Jesus’ suffering for our sins and saving us. It is also recognizing God is saying something to us during The Seven Last Words of Jesus on The Cross!
When Prayers Go Unanswered: Faith Beyond ResultsThe homily opens with a story about a young man frustrated by a vending machine, . . .. . . drawing a parallel to how people often treat God—as if He should instantly grant every request. It reflects on Jesus’ teaching, “Ask, and it will be given,” emphasizing that while God does answer prayers, the answers may not always align with our expectations.The message challenges the “prosperity gospel” mindset and highlights that prayer is about aligning with God’s will rather than demanding results. Through examples like the Lord’s Prayer, the homily teaches that authentic prayer begins with honoring God, seeking His will, and trusting His timing—even when prayers appear unanswered.God’s responses are rooted in wisdom and love, not always in immediate gratification. The faithful are encouraged to be persistent in prayer, trust God’s greater plan, and maintain humility in seeking divine intervention.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen toWhen Prayers Go Unanswered: Faith Beyond Results__________________________________Image:The Virgin in Prayer: Painter: Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato: 1645__________________________________Gospel Reading Matthew 7: 7-12First Reading Esther C: 12, 14-16, 23-25
Loving Like God: The True Challenge of Lent During this season we are faced with the key challenges Christians are called to embrace during Lent— . . .. . . deepening our relationship with God through prayer, detaching from worldly comforts through fasting, and extending love to others through almsgiving. The scripture readings emphasize obedience to God’s commandments and radical love, especially the difficult commandment to love and pray for one’s enemies.Jesus sets a higher standard—not merely to love those who love us, but to reflect God’s unconditional love. The text critiques the tendency to compare our moral behavior to others instead of striving for God’s perfection. Ultimately, we are reminded that in the end, we will be judged not by human standards, but by how well we loved as God loves.The Homily tells us what we must do to truly become His children. Listen toLoving Like God: The True Challenge of Lent-----------------------------------------Image:God the Father and the Holy Spirit : Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787)-----------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 5: 43-48First Reading: Deuteronomy 26: 16-19Verse Before the Gospel: 2 Corinthians 6: 2
More Than the Desert: Rediscovering Lent Through the MountainIt is generally the case as we move through the season of Lent. . .. . . that we hear the statement that during Lent, we are in the desert with Jesus. And that’s true, but only to a certain extent. The church has a much fuller understanding of the season of Lent than simply being in the desert with Jesus. And that’s because the desert doesn’t go anywhere, and Lent does.The Homily explores the deeper meaning of Lent beyond the common notion of simply “being in the desert with Jesus.” While the desert symbolizes the struggle of human life and temptation, Lent is not meant to leave us there. Instead, it’s a journey — a movement with Christ toward transformation and salvation, culminating in the celebration of Easter.The Church Uses Three Symbolic Models to Understand LentThe Church uses three symbolic models to understand Lent: the desert, the mountain of the Transfiguration, and the journey to Jerusalem. The desert represents the harsh reality of a world hostile to goodness, but Christ meets us there to lead us onward. The mountain of the Transfiguration reveals another dimension of Lent — an ascent with Christ, where distractions fall away, our spiritual vision sharpens, and we encounter divine light and truth.This mountaintop experience is not just a metaphor but a preparation for the Resurrection. It reveals Christ’s divine glory and reassures us of the destination: eternal life and glory, not just hardship or sacrifice. The Transfiguration calls us to deeper listening and seeing — to lift our hearts, clarify our vision, and engage more fully in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.Ultimately, the Homily culminates in the Eucharist, where Christ not only invites us to look and listen but to receive Him fully into our hearts. Lent is not just about abstaining but about ascending — spiritually rising with Christ toward His glory and our transformation.Listen more within this Meditation Media listen to:More Than the Desert: Rediscovering Lent Through the Mountain-------------------------------------Image:Transfiguration: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch: 1872-------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 9: 28-36First Reading: Genesis 15: 5-12, 17-18Second Reading: Philippians 3: 17—4: 1
Living Lent as People Baptized Into the Death of Christ This reflection opens with prayer and introduces the theme . . .. . . of a spiritual recollection centered on living out our baptism during Lent, particularly as people baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection. It draws from Romans 6:3-11, emphasizing that baptism unites us with Christ’s death and resurrection, calling us to a new life in God.The talk explores baptism as a pilgrimage—a journey of faith, identity, and spiritual transformation. It highlights the symbolism of water, the power of naming, and the vocation and purpose revealed through our baptismal identity. The name we receive at baptism carries spiritual significance and points to God’s dream and calling for us.Through biblical instances like Abraham, Sarah, and Mary, the conference talks about examples that shows how names reflect divine missions. The talk also reflects on baptismal promises, the sign of the cross as a branding of allegiance to Christ, and the continual need to renew and live out our baptismal identity, especially during Lent—a time of repentance, reflection, and rediscovery of spiritual origins.The day of recollection includes prayer, blessing of water, renewal of baptismal vows, and symbolic rituals reminding participants of their Christian identity and mission.Listen to:Living Lent as People Baptized Into the Death of Christ________________________________________________________Image:Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes.________________________________________________________Note:This marks the Second Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. The QoAH's website has links to the other conferences.
The Cross, the Choice, and the Call to Follow It sounds so deceptively simple.I place before you life or death and you get to choose. I place before you, the blessing and the curse, and you can take your pick. And when you put it that directly and that bluntly, it seems like this is just the ultimate no-brainer. Well, of course, I am taking life all day long and yet hidden with that simple pairing of opposites is a sobering reality.The Homily centers on the powerful and deceptively simple biblical invitation: “Choose life or death.” While it seems like an obvious choice, however, many don’t truly understand what choosing life entails. It’s not about chasing dreams or material comfort, but about choosing God and living according to His will. Moses, standing before the Israelites on the threshold of the Promised Land, urges them to remember that true life comes from obedience to God, not merely from achieving external goals.Choice and the Connection With LentThis message is deeply connected to the purpose of Lent, which is not valuable on its own but serves as a preparation for Easter. The season invites believers into self-denial, reflection, and a deeper commitment to follow Christ daily—not just in words or superficial gestures, but through intentional, ongoing decisions to walk in God’s ways. The Gospel call to take up one’s cross daily is emphasized as the core spiritual discipline of Lent. Ultimately, choosing life is choosing Christ, and this choice must be reaffirmed in daily actions and decisions—not someday, but today.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Cross, the Choice, and the Call to Follow------------------------------------------Image:Christ Carrying His Cross: Italian Painter: El Greco: 1580The painting resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY.------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 9: 22-25First Reading: Deuteronomy 30: 15-20
Lent: A Journey of Grace, Not Just Sacrifice The Church reflects, in today’s readings, . . .. . . on the traditional Lenten practice of giving up things and making commitments to God but suggests shifting the focus. Rather than centering on personal sacrifices, it encourages believers to reflect on God’s promises of mercy, compassion, and love. By recognizing God’s grace first, believers can more easily fulfill their Lenten commitments.Key Aspects of the Lenten Season Are Not Just Prayer, Fasting and Alms GivingThe Homily emphasizes three key aspects of Lent: giving alms, deepening prayer, and fasting—not just from food but from anything that distracts from spiritual growth.Humility is highlighted as the ultimate path to God, echoing the teachings of Saint Augustine. We are all called, this Lenten Season and always, for a deeper appreciation of God’s love and a response to it through faith and humility.Understand how we should do this during this Lenten Season. Listen to:Lent: A Journey of Grace, Not Just Sacrifice----------------------------------------------------------------Image:The Widow’s Mite : French Painter: James Tissot: 1886----------------------------------------------------------------Despite being vulnerable and having limited resources, . . .she, who should be the recipient of charity, offers her own contribution to the Lord. The woman is aware of others giving large sums, but this doesn’t discourage her. She believes she has something to give and proceeds to do so, regardless of what others contribute.
The Spiritual Meaning of Lent: Lenten Conference #1 Psalm 95 and Psalm 51: The Foundations of Lent’s Spiritual JourneyDuring each Friday of the Lenten Season, there will be a Lenten Devotional Conference.This is the first week within this series. Each conference will appear singularly on the Website, SoundCloud, Facebook and iPod platforms. All conferences will also appear within this post.This first conference reflects on Psalm 95 and Psalm 51, emphasizing their significance in the season of Lent and the life of the Church. Psalm 95 is a daily call to praise, worship, and recognize God’s sovereignty, but it also warns against hardening one’s heart, as the Israelites did in the wilderness. It highlights the necessity of listening to God’s voice today, not delaying obedience.During Lent, the Church abstains from saying “Hallelujah” as a symbolic act of preparation, reinforcing that true praise must come from a purified heart. The conference also discusses Psalm 51, a penitential psalm of King David after his sin with Bathsheba, stressing the importance of compunction—a deep sorrow for sin that moves one toward true repentance. Lent, therefore, is not merely about resisting temptation but about allowing God to transform the heart so that one can truly praise Him with sincerity and purity.Listen to this first devotional Lenten Conference and let it transform your heart. Join us virtually (or physically each week for additional Lenten conferences.Listen to:The Spiritual Meaning of Lent------------------------------------------------It begins as a call of praise. And so, note that the first thing the church says every day is to lift up the voice and give praise to God. And we pause at that moment, this command to praise the Lord. The word that we don’t use during Lent, which I’m going to use now simply to say it so that we’re all on the same page, is hallelujah.It is the great cry of Easter victory, and it literally means praise the Lord. And so note in a sense, there is this command to lift up the voice celebrating the great things God has done with a fullness of praise. And yet during Lent, we don’t use that word, which expresses and communicates praise in its utter fullness. Hear more within the conference.------------------------------------------------Image:Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes.------------------------------------------------Note:This marks the First Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. As we move forward within the Season, each week’s separate post will have various links to the other conferences. There will also be one post that has all conference. As we move forward, look for the various posts and links.
Seeking God’s Will: The Foundation of Lasting RelationshipsThe readings explore the themes of friendship, commitment, and obedience to God’s will.The Homily begins with a discussion on the nature of true friendship, emphasizing that genuine friendship requires discernment, testing, and trust. The Homily contrasts shallow acquaintanceship with deep, enduring relationships, both among people and in one’s relationship with God. The idea that God also tests His friends to reveal the strength or weakness of their commitment is a central theme.Seeking God’s WillThe Homily then transitions into the Gospel teaching on marriage, highlighting that many people approach relationships with a mindset of personal convenience rather than seeking God’s will. The Pharisees’ attempt to test Jesus regarding divorce reflects humanity’s tendency to challenge God instead of submitting to divine wisdom. Jesus responds by redirecting the conversation from legal permissions to the fundamental question: What is the will of God?The key message is that true friendship—with both people and God—requires obedience, self-transformation, and faithfulness, even in times of difficulty. By seeking God’s will first, rather than prioritizing personal desires, one can cultivate meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life. How, again, do we determine God’s Will?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Seeking God’s Will: The Foundation of Lasting Relationships----------------------------------------Image:The Return of the Prodigal Son: Dutch Artist and Painter: Rembrandt: 1661----------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 10: 1-12First Reading: Sirach 6: 5-17
Walking in Wisdom: Preparing for Lent with Sirach As the Catholic Church approaches the Lenten season;we stand at the threshold of a sacred time—a time to reflect on the profound mystery of our salvation and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Lent calls us to renew our baptismal promises and deepen our spiritual journey. But why is this reflection so essential? Discover more in today’s homily.A Time for PreparationLent is a season of preparation, especially for those seeking baptism into Christ. The Church, through today’s readings, imparts wisdom that arises from daily life experiences. One such reading comes from the Book of Sirach—unique among Old Testament wisdom literature because its author, Yeshua ben Eleazar ben Sira (or Ben Sira), identifies himself. His purpose is clear: to emphasize that true wisdom is found in following God’s commandments. The depth of our understanding and spiritual growth is revealed through the choices we make and the way we live each day.Sirach Teaches Us About WisdomBen Sira teaches that wisdom is most clearly expressed in our speech. A person’s words immediately reveal the depth of their understanding and character. Furthermore, he speaks of the heart—not merely as a physical organ but as the core of our authentic self. A heart rooted in truth manifests itself through acts of love, compassion, and charity. Our words and actions ultimately reflect the condition of our hearts.So, how do we care for our hearts? How do we nurture our true selves in faith and wisdom? Let us take to heart the lesson from Sirach, embracing the journey of Lent as a time for transformation and spiritual renewal.Listen to this Meditation Media.Walking in Wisdom: Preparing for Lent with Sirach --------------------------------------------Image:Sirach: German Artist: Julius Schnorr von Karolsfeld: 1860--------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 6: 39-45First Reading: Sirach 27: 4-7Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15: 54-58
The Mystery of Belonging: Receiving the Kingdom as a Child The readings today explore the profound mystery . . .. . . behind Jesus’ invitation for children to come to Him. We all have heard the story of Jesus holding a child. But do we really understand the meaning behind the mystery?The Essence of Being a ChildIt emphasizes that the essence of being a child is belonging—to a family, to one another, and ultimately to God. Just as children must be raised, humanity, too, requires guidance and teaching from God. The Homily highlights the familial relationship we share through Christ, as both children of God and of Mary, reinforcing that true freedom comes not from independence but from recognizing our belonging.The call to receive the Kingdom like a child is a call to embrace this belonging fully, a message that extends to families and the entire Church.Listen to this Meditation media. Listen to:The Mystery of Belonging: Receiving the Kingdom as a Child -----------------------------------Image:Let the Children Come to Me: German Painter: Carl Christian Vogel von Vogelstein: 1788 – 1868-----------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 10: 13-16First Reading: Sirach 17: 1-15
The Chair of St. Peter: A Seat of Authority and Faith The Church emphasizes the significance of the Chair of St. Peter, . . .. . . on this Feast Day, which symbolizes the authority and witness of the Apostle Peter and his successors. It explores the meaning of a chair as a place of rest, stability, and authority, linking it to the role of Peter as the foundation of the Church. The homily highlights Peter’s confession of faith—“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God”—as the rock upon which Christ built his Church.The Gospel reading also draws attention to the role of faith as a gift from God, the authority of the Church in proclaiming Christ, and the symbolic power of the keys of the kingdom. The message concludes by connecting this authority to the Eucharist, where the priests, through apostolic succession, calls Christ to be present on the altar, affirming the Church’s unbroken mission of showing forth Jesus Christ.Listen also to the end of the Homily which paints an image on how we should pray to the Lord immediately after communion. Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to: -----------------------------Image:The Chair of St. Peter: A Seat of Authority and FaithThe Chair of St. Peter-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 16: 13-19First Reading: 1 Peter 5: 1-4
The Tower of Babel and the Danger of Self-GlorificationSt. Augustine’s definition of sin is self-centeredness . . .. . . when a person turns inward instead of toward God. Using the metaphor of a bronze helmet with a mirror, the saint illustrates how sin causes individuals to focus only on themselves, unable to see beyond their own image. This idea is connected to modern “selfie culture,” where self-projection and self-importance dominate.The Tower of BabelThe homily links this concept to the biblical story of the Tower of Babel, where people sought to elevate themselves to God’s level, leading to confusion and division. In contrast, Jesus teaches self-denial and self-giving, urging his followers to turn outward toward God and others. The Homily warns that technological advancements, while beneficial, can become tools of self-centeredness if they are only used for personal gain rather than the common good.The reversal of Babel happens at Pentecost when the Holy Spirit unites people despite their differences. listen also to a special concluding prayer for God’s Spirit to guide people away from self-focus and toward love, service, and unity.Listen to this Meditation Media: Listen to:The Tower of Babel and the Danger of Self-Glorification-------------------------------Image:Tower of Babel: Dutch Artist: Pieter Bruegel: 1563-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 8: 34—9: 1First Reading: Genesis 11: 1-9
The Strength of Restraint: Lessons from David and Jesus The Homily reflects on a challenging Gospel passage that urges . . .. . . believers to transcend the natural human desire for revenge and vindication. Using the Old Testament story of David sparing King Saul’s life as an example, the Homily highlights the importance of choosing mercy over retaliation, even when given the power to strike back. This message is reinforced by Jesus’ teachings, which challenge his followers to go beyond basic goodness and be truly set apart through acts of patience, mercy, and generosity.Jesus calls his disciples to a higher standard—not just loving friends and family but also showing kindness to enemies and responding to hostility with grace. The Homily illustrates how unchecked anger and resentment diminish a person’s character, emphasizing that true strength lies in restraint and forgiveness.St. Joseph CustomThe Homily concludes with a call to generosity, tying it to the tradition of the St. Joseph Altar, where food donations symbolize an abundance of kindness and concern for those in need.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Strength of Restraint: Lessons from David and Jesus---------------------------Image:King David – the King of Israel: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst: 1622King David playing the harp.---------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 6:27-38First Reading: 1 Samuel 26: 2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23Second: Reading: 1 Corinthians 15: 45-49
The Beauty of Waiting: God’s Plan Unfolds in Time The Homily today emphasizes the importance of patience . . .. . . in growing our faith and waiting on God’s timing rather than our own. Using the story of Noah from Genesis, it highlights how he waited patiently before leaving the ark. We’ll hear the significance and the lessons for us within the Homily.Similarly, in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus heals a blind man in stages, symbolizing the gradual process of spiritual growth. Why did Jesus have to perform the healing inn two stages, when other miracles are performed with a simple command?Faith Requires . . .The Homily stresses that faith is a journey that requires trust in God’s timing. In a world that demands instant results, impatience can lead to discouragement and a loss of faith. However, the process of waiting is crucial as it prepares us for what God has in store. True faith requires patience, trust, and surrender to God’s will.Understand the lessons of both readings today on our Spiritual Life. Listen to this Meditation Media.The Beauty of Waiting: God’s Plan Unfolds in Time---------------------------Image:Christ Healing the Blind: Nicolas Colombel: 1682This painting resides in the St. Louis Art Museum, St. Louis MO.---------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 8: 22-26First Reading: Genesis 8: 6-13, 20-22
Who Do You Say That I Am? A Call to Deep Discipleship For hundreds and hundreds of years in the Catholic tradition, . . .. . . well before the image of the rainbow was co-opted for other agendas less connected to the gospel of the Lord, the rainbow set in the sky as a sign of the covenant has long been held to be a symbol of Our Lady. It is not uncommon in some parts of Europe to find stained glass windows or art in churches, which would feature a rainbow with Our Lady enthroned upon the top of it.This image of the bright and glorious rainbow after the flood was seen as a sign of Our Lady assumed into the glory of heaven. Placed on a throne to watch over the people and so that when they looked up and saw her, knowing that they could turn to her for her intercession and to help them come to know the Lord, they were looking at a sure and certain sign that our salvation indeed had been won.Jesus and His DisciplesThe Gospel passage reflects on a key turning point in the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus begins to shift His focus from public teaching to forming His disciples. The reflection emphasizes that Christian discipleship requires consistent commitment rather than occasional engagement. As Jesus questions His disciples about His identity, Peter declares, “You are the Christ.” However, Jesus instructs them not to share this yet, as their understanding is still incomplete. True knowledge of Christ requires embracing the mystery of the cross.Jesus then reveals His impending suffering, death, and resurrection, which Peter initially resists, prompting Jesus’ rebuke: “Get behind me, Satan.” This underscores the contrast between human thinking and God’s plan. The passage connects this lesson to Lent, a time for deepening discipleship, self-denial, and embracing the cross as the path to true knowledge of Christ.Listen to this meditation Media. Listen to: Who Do You Say That I Am? A Call to Deep Discipleship-----------------------Image:Our Lady and the Symbolism of the Rainbow: AI and Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team: 2025This website showcases masterpieces from centuries of art. Occasionally, the Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team enhances the collection with Artificial Intelligence Art—a modern approach to creating art using AI technology. This particular piece portrays Our Lady walking and seeing God’s Rainbow. To gain a deeper insight into God’s actions, listen to the accompanying Homily.-----------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 8: 27-33First Reading: Genesis 9: 1-13
The Gift of Hearing: A Path to Faith and Proclamation There is a special prayer of blessing at the baptism of children, . . .. . . spoken immediately after pouring water on the child. In this prayer, the priest or deacon invokes the Lord who made the deaf hear and the mute speak, asking that He touch the child’s ears to receive His word and their mouth to proclaim His faith.This prayer, known as the “Ephphatha” or “Be Opened” prayer, is also present in the rite of adult initiation, occurring before the day of baptism. Its purpose is to open the ears to hear the Word of God and the mouth to proclaim the faith into which the individual is entering.Jesus Begins the Healing By . . .It’s fascinating that Jesus begins healing by opening ears. Without the ability to hear, one cannot speak. Even when hearing is impaired, speech becomes difficult. This illustrates that hearing is more fundamental than speaking. Perhaps this is why God gave us two ears but only one mouth—so we might listen more than we speak. Imagine if it were the other way around!In today’s Gospel, Jesus heals the whole person by first healing the ears, enabling them to hear the Word of God. For without hearing the Word, one cannot proclaim it. It all begins with listening. This invites us to reflect: How often do I hear the Word of God? How often do I read it?More importantly, how often does my speaking flow from listening to the Word of God? This reflection encourages us to listen more—both to God and to others. Before responding to others, we must first hear them.. . . Opening the EarsOnce we’ve listened to the Word of God, we are then called to proclaim it. Additionally, today’s Gospel reminds us of the people who brought the man from the Decapolis to Jesus, asking for healing on his behalf. Jesus responded to their plea and healed him.This invites us to consider: Who can I bring to Jesus today? Whether through prayer or action, we are called to intercede for others. Think of someone suffering or in need. Bring them to Jesus in prayer, asking for healing, comfort, or strength.Today’s message challenges us to listen more deeply and to bring others to Jesus, trusting in His power to touch, heal, and open hearts. Listen more to the additional lessons in today’s readings. Hear more within this brief Meditation Media. Listen to:The Gift of Hearing: A Path to Faith and Proclamation----------------------------------Image:Christ Healing the Deaf-Mute: French Artist: Philippe de Champaigne: 1650 -1660----------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 7: 31-37First Reading: Genesis 3: 1-8
Mercy Rising in the East: The Promise of Salvation In the entrance antiphon for today’s Mass, . . .. . . we hear that the Virgin Mary is blessed because from her arose the Son of Justice, Christ our God. This image—Christ, our Savior, rising from the Virgin Mary to bring light to the world—is deeply significant in light of today’s readings.At the end of the first reading, after God pronounces judgment on Adam and Eve and expels them from paradise, we notice a specific direction to their movement. He settles them east of the Garden of Eden, a detail rich with meaning. The sun rises in the east. Light comes from the east. A new day begins from the east. Salvation comes from the east.God Direct Humanity Toward SalvationEven amid the sorrow of the fall, as God imposes the consequences of sin, He directs humanity toward the very place from which salvation will come. And in the entrance antiphon, the Church honors Mary as the great “East” from which the Son of Justice rises, bringing the light of mercy and salvation to a world desperately in need of it—a world that is fallen and wounded.This woundedness is poignantly expressed in today’s Gospel and first reading. When God confronts Adam and Eve and pronounces judgment, He tells Adam, “Because you listened to your wife… cursed be the ground because of you.” This statement is crucial because it reveals a fundamental aspect of original sin.Original Sin Is Not An Abstract ConceptOriginal sin is not merely an abstract concept; it involves something as tangible as food. It involves eating, appetite—not only the appetites of the heart and mind but also the appetites of the body. Why does one reach out for food? Fundamentally, to sustain oneself. Yet the fall of humanity began with taking and eating in the wrong way, striving to sustain and advance oneself apart from God, only to end up empty.God tells Adam, “Cursed be the ground because of you.” Adam leaves a place where sustaining and enjoying life was effortless. In Eden, he only needed to stretch out his hand to receive God’s blessings. But now, he will labor and toil by the sweat of his brow, striving for sustenance in a fallen, wounded world. Man’s efforts to sustain himself will now be marked by struggle and frustration.The Miracle of the Loaves Is Also Depicting SalvationWe see this struggle in the Gospel reading. Jesus is with a crowd in a deserted place—a place where no one can stretch out their hand and find sustenance. Yet, for three days, these people have been sustained—not by food but by the Word of God that Jesus, the Son of Justice, speaks to them.After feeding them spiritually, Jesus turns to his disciples and says, “Now, let us attend to their physical hunger.” The disciples look at the vast crowd of 4,000 and see nothing but scarcity. “We have seven loaves,” they say—woefully inadequate to meet the need. What human hands can produce is insufficient to truly sustain life.The miracle is more subtle, more wondrous. As they distribute the bread, it simply doesn’t run out. Hear more within the Homily.Revealing What Was Lost in EdenListen further to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Mercy Rising in the East: The Promise of Salvation---------------------------------Image:God Directs Humanity Toward Salvation: AI and Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team: 2025The Queen of All Hearts' website showcases masterpieces from centuries of art. Occasionally, the Queen of All Hearts’ Digital Team enhances the collection with Artificial Intelligence Art—a modern approach to creating art using AI technology. This particular piece portrays the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve’s departure. In the scene, the Sun rises in the East, symbolizing God’s continued guidance for humanity. To gain a deeper insight into God’s actions following humanity’s fall, listen to the accompanying Homily.
Turning Hearts to God: The Key to Eternal LifeToday’s readings guide us to seek something that never ends—eternal and everlasting blessings.In the first reading from the book of Jeremiah, we encounter two types of people: those who are cursed and those who are blessed. Jeremiah warns, “Cursed is the one who trusts in human beings.” This prompts us to pause and reflect: In our families, we naturally place trust in our spouses, children, and loved ones. So, is it wrong to trust them? Jeremiah continues, “Cursed is the one who seeks strength in the flesh.”If Our Trust . . .The key message he delivers is this: Cursed is the one who turns their heart away from God. If our trust in people, in ourselves, or in our wealth leads us away from God, then we are truly cursed.In the Gospel, Jesus declares, “Woe to you who are rich! Woe to you who laugh now! Woe to you who are praised!” Again, we must pause and ask: Is it wrong to be wealthy? Is it wrong to be joyful or to receive praise? Certainly not. But if our wealth, happiness, or praise lead us to believe we are self-sufficient, distancing us from God, then woe to us indeed.Jeremiah continues his message:We are cursed when we place ultimate trust in people.We are cursed when we rely solely on our own strength.We are cursed when our hearts turn away from God.Why is this so? Because we become like a barren bush in the desert, deprived of life-giving water, unable to bear fruit. Without God, we lack true life and vitality. Woe to us if we turn our hearts away from Him. But there is hope. Jeremiah also speaks of a second group: “Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is in the Lord.”In the Gospel, Jesus echoes this by saying:“Blessed are the poor.”“Blessed are those who weep.”“Blessed are those who hunger.”“Blessed are those who are persecuted.”We might wonder: Is it good to be poor or hungry? Is it good to suffer or be persecuted? No. God did not create us for suffering or sorrow. But blessed are we when we place our complete trust in the Lord, for He is the source of life.The second reading reinforces this by reminding us that life does not end here. Christ rose from the dead, becoming the first fruit of the resurrection. Those who trust in the Lord receive blessings that extend beyond this life—eternal blessings that lead to resurrection and everlasting life.What is the lesson from today’s readings? Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Turning Hearts to God: The Key to Eternal Life---------------------------------Image:Christ and the Rich Young Ruler: German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1889---------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 6: 17,20-26First Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20
The Sower’s Hope: A Reflection on God’s Patience God’s Hope in You and MeGod has hope in you. God has hope in me. And in His infinite mercy, He grants us time.There is a well-known saying: Keep the Word of God, and the Word of God will keep you. This wisdom reminds us of the importance of holding onto God’s truth, for it has the power to sustain and guide us. Today, the Gospel presents us with the Parable of the Sower—a lesson deeply rooted in faith and patience.The Sower goes out to scatter seeds. Anyone familiar with farming understands the care required for planting. In many places, before sowing, farmers prepare the land by making ridges, ensuring the soil is rich and free from stones. This preparation is essential for growth, as seeds need fertile soil to flourish.During Jesus’ Time . . .During Jesus’ time, however, farming methods were different. A farmer would walk through the field with a basket of seeds, scattering them by hand. He knew that some seeds would fall on fertile ground, while others would land on rocky paths, among thorns, or in places where birds would snatch them away. Yet, he still sowed generously.Why Did Jesus Use This Sower Parable?So, why would a farmer take such a risk, knowing that not all seeds would bear fruit? Why does Jesus use this parable?At first glance, the farmer may seem careless or even wasteful. But Jesus’ message goes deeper. The Sower represents God, and the seeds symbolize His Word. Despite our hardened hearts, our rocky faith, or the thorns of sin in our lives, God still sows His Word within us. He does so because He has hope in us. He believes in our ability to change, to grow, and to transform.If God were only concerned with efficiency — if He sowed His Word only where He was sure of immediate results — many of us would never have received His grace. We are sinners, imperfect and flawed, yet He continues to reach out to us. He trusts us. He loves us. And He patiently waits for our transformation.He Patiently Waits for Our TransformationThis trust, this divine hope, should not be taken for granted. In the first reading, we hear of a High Priest who does not reject us because of our sins but intercedes for us. This is the essence of God’s love—a love that never gives up on us, no matter how unworthy we may feel.Let us reflect on this: God’s hope in us is unwavering. Will we open our hearts to His Word and allow it to take root in our lives?Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Sower’s Hope: A Reflection on God’s Patience*****ImageParable of the Sower: Dutch Painter: Pieter Bruegel the Elder: 1557A Sower went out to sow. The painting depicts a farmer scattering seed across a field. On the left, thorny bushes threaten to overtake the grain. Nearby, rocky ground offers quick growth but little endurance. To the right, further down the hill, the seed falls on fertile soil.Across the river, a crowd gathers to hear the teachings of Jesus. The painting was inspired by a trip to the mountains the artist took just before creating this piece.*******Gospel: Matthew 13: 36-43First Reading: Jer 14: 17-22
The Mustard Seed of Faith: How Small Actions Shape Our Spiritual Journey The readings we hear today—from the Letter to the Hebrews and the Gospel of Mark—share a common theme: . . .. . . they were written during times of Christian persecution. The first reading describes the hardships faced by early believers: some were killed, others imprisoned, and many had their possessions taken—all because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Yet, the message remains firm: “Do not lose your confidence. Do not lose hope.”A similar theme appears in the Gospel of Mark. Mark wrote his Gospel in Rome during a period of severe persecution. At that time, professing faith in Christ was essentially a death sentence. The Roman Emperor was seen as the only “lord,” and acknowledging Jesus as Lord was considered treason. In such a hostile environment, Mark wrote to encourage those who were discouraged, those who wondered: When will God’s Kingdom come? When will this suffering end?Jesus Gives Us Two ParablesTo answer this, Mark presents two parables of Jesus. The first parable compares the Kingdom of God to a farmer who scatters seed. Though he does not see the process, the seed sprouts and grows until it is ready for harvest. This teaches us that God’s Kingdom is already at work, even when we cannot see it. It may not be immediately visible, but it is growing steadily, in ways beyond our understanding.The second parable is of the mustard seed — the smallest of all seeds, yet it grows into a great shrub, providing shelter and shade. This illustrates that God’s work often begins in small, seemingly insignificant ways but eventually flourishes into something great.Living the Kingdom in Our Daily LivesBut how does this apply to our daily lives? As Christians gathered here today, our hope is in the Kingdom of God. We are called to have faith in its presence and growth in our lives.Take, for example, a simple habit like coming to church. The first day, it may feel like an effort. The second day, it becomes easier. Over time, it becomes a natural part of life. A small act of faith, when nurtured, grows into a way of life. The same is true for acts of kindness — one small, good deed can lead to another, and eventually, it shapes our character and spreads goodness into the world.However, the opposite is also true. Just as good deeds grow, small sins, if unchecked, can lead to greater sins. A single act of dishonesty can lead to a pattern of deceit. A moment of selfishness can turn into a hardened heart. We see these patterns in Scripture and in our own lives.The Example of St. John BoscoToday, we commemorate St. John Bosco, a man who understood the power of small actions. He began by helping just a few poor boys, guiding them in faith and education. Over time, his mission expanded, leading to the formation of schools and eventually a religious congregation dedicated to educating and uplifting young people. What started as a single act of compassion blossomed into a movement that continues to transform lives today.A Personal ReflectionAs we reflect on today’s message, let us ask ourselves: What small actions can I take today that will grow into something greater for God’s Kingdom? Am I allowing small sins to take root in my heart, leading me away from God?Let us pray through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who, through her simple “yes” to God, became an instrument of salvation for all humanity. May we, too, become agents of God’s Kingdom through the small yet powerful choices we make each day.Listen to this Meditation Media. Understand how these parables impact our spiritual journey.The Mustard Seed of Faith: How Small Actions Shape Our Spiritual Journey*****ImageThe Parable of the Mustard Seed: Etching: Dutch Poet and Illustrator: Jan Luyken: 17th Century*******Gospel Reading: Mark 4: 26-34First Reading: Hebrews 10: 32-39
Faith Beyond Sight: Trusting God in the Unseen Today’s readings present us with a fundamental question: What kind of faith do we have?Renowned theologian Roger Haidt describes faith as a universal human experience. He argues that everyone possesses faith in some form. For example, when you leave your home to come here, you have faith that you will find your parish or shrine. When you sit on a chair, you have faith that it will support you. Without such faith, you wouldn’t take these actions.Haidt emphasizes that the real question is not whether we have faith, but where our faith is placed. As Christians, we are called to have faith in the infinite, the absolute, the transcendent—the Almighty God. This is the faith described in today’s readings: “Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.”Faith Beyond SightOften, we prefer to believe only after we have seen. Yet, true faith calls us to trust in God’s promises even when we do not see immediate evidence. The first reading gives the example of Abraham, who left his homeland because he trusted in God’s promise of a new land. Though he had not seen it, his faith moved him forward.So, what kind of faith do we have? Is it a faith that depends on visible signs, or one that remains firm even in uncertainty?The Gospel reading offers another profound lesson. The disciples, having witnessed Jesus perform miracles and teach with authority, still faltered when faced with a storm at sea. As the violent winds raged, they panicked and cried out, “Lord, don’t you care that we are perishing?”Isn’t this how we often respond in difficult times? We know that Jesus is with us, yet when life’s storms arise, fear overtakes our faith. We question Him, forgetting that His presence is our greatest security.Trusting God in the UnseenAs we reflect on today’s readings, let us ask ourselves again: What kind of faith do we have? Is it rooted in the unseen promises of God? Do we trust Him even in the midst of life’s storms?May this meditation deepen our spiritual journey and strengthen our conviction in the faith we are called to live.Listen more toFaith Beyond Sight: Trusting God in the Unseen*****ImageThe Storm on the Sea of Galilee: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1633Uniquely, this painting was in a Boston Museum for almost 100 years, until 1990. It was stolen that year and remains missing.*****Gospel Reading: Mark 4: 35-41First Reading: Hebrews 11: 1-2, 8-19
When God Enters His Temple: The Mystery of the Presentation A Light Revealed: The Feast of the Presentation We begin with candles—simple yet profound. By doing something so unusual, the Church signals that today’s feast is anything but ordinary. The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas, begins with the lighting of candles, the blessing of the very instruments that will illuminate our worship and homes. This ritual reminds us of the deeper truth at the heart of this celebration: the light we honor today has a name. His name is Jesus Christ.As proclaimed in the Gospel, He is the “light of revelation to the Gentiles” and the “glory of Israel“—not hidden but revealed for all nations to see. This is no mere commemoration of Mary and Joseph bringing their child to the temple. Rather, the greater mystery we celebrate today is the Lord presenting Himself.Scripture tells us, “Suddenly the Lord whom you seek will appear in the temple.” At first, this may seem odd—shouldn’t the Lord always be found in His temple? And yet, this verse speaks of something deeper, an intensification of divine presence. The Lord is not merely invoked or symbolized here. He is truly present, personally, physically, as the Incarnate Word, entering the temple not just spiritually but in human flesh.God’s Presence Revealed to the WorldWhat a contrast! The grandeur of God’s presence—His infinite majesty—contained within the small, fragile frame of an infant. In the midst of temple sacrifices, the very God to whom those offerings are made is among His people, gazing upon the worship offered in His name. But this is no ordinary gaze—it is the eye of God Himself, beholding His people, receiving their prayers, and preparing the ultimate sacrifice that will redeem them all.This is the mystery of today’s feast: the glory of God made manifest in the temple; the Lord who was sought now present among us.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:When God Enters His Temple: The Mystery of the Presentation******ImageSimeon In The Temple: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1631******Gospel Reading: Luke 2:22-40First Reading: Malachi 3: 1-4Second Reading: Hebrews 2: 14-18
From Law to Grace: The Conversion That Changed Christianity The Conversion of St. Paul: A Remarkable TransformationToday, we celebrate the conversion of St. Paul. Before becoming one of Christianity’s most influential figures, Paul was known as Saul. He was born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, to Jewish parents who were slaves to Roman citizens. However, due to Roman law, children born to enslaved parents serving Roman citizens were granted Roman citizenship at birth. This granted Saul the unique privilege of being both a Jew by heritage and a Roman citizen by status.To ensure that Saul remained rooted in his Jewish identity, his parents sent him to Jerusalem to study Jewish law. There, he became a student of Rabbi Gamaliel, a highly respected teacher of the law. During his time in Jerusalem, Saul was immersed in the prevailing belief that the coming of the Messiah would free Israel from Roman rule. Different groups held various approaches to hasten this liberation—some took up arms against Roman oppression, while others, like Saul’s group under Gamaliel, believed strict adherence to the law would hasten the Messiah’s arrival.Saul Believed By Following the Law, It Would Hasten the Arrival of …As a passionate and zealous student of Jewish law, Saul strictly followed every commandment and surpassed his peers in devotion. However, during this time, he began hearing about a young rabbi named Jesus, whose teachings and actions defied the traditional laws. Jesus and his followers disregarded rituals, such as washing hands before meals, and did not strictly observe every legal requirement. To Saul, this was unacceptable, and he became determined to defend the law at all costs.Saul’s journey from a fierce persecutor of Christians to a devoted apostle of Christ is what makes his conversion so extraordinary. His transformation not only changed his life but also shaped the future of Christianity.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:From Law to Grace: The Conversion That Changed Christianity-----------------------------------ImageThe Conversion Of Saint Paul: French Painter: Nicolas Bernard Lépicié: late 1700s -----------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 16: 15-18First Reading: Acts: 22: 3 – 16
Jesus, Melchizedek, and the Priesthood of All Believers Today’s homily reflects on Jesus as the eternal priest, . . .. . . drawing a parallel to Melchizedek, a mysterious biblical figure who blessed Abraham and had no known lineage. The comparison highlights Jesus’ divine origin. The homily then shares a personal anecdote from the early days of his priesthood, recalling a moment when his father, a humble longshoreman, expressed quiet pride in his vocation.This leads to a broader reflection on the priesthood, emphasizing that all baptized Christians share in a priestly role, called to bring God’s light, healing, and truth into the world despite challenges and opposition.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to----------------------------------------------------ImageJesus, Melchizedek, and the Priesthood of All Believers----------------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 3: 1-6First Reading: Hebrews: 7: 1-3, 15 – 17Detail from Abraham and Melchizedek: Spanish Painter: Juan Antonio de Frías y Escalante: 1668
Faith in the Face of Violence: The Message of the Holy InnocentsThe Feast of the Holy Innocents: A Call to Faith and CompassionThe Church gives us the Feast of the Holy Innocents as a reminder that the birth of Jesus Christ—the coming of God to dwell among us—will be met with resistance. From the very beginning, his presence is opposed, and his path ultimately leads to suffering and death. Those who remain faithful to him will also face persecution, as faithfulness to God comes with consequences.The Holy InnocentsToday’s readings, especially the Gospel of Matthew, emphasize that Jesus is the fulfillment of the entire Old Testament. He is the new Moses. Just as Moses was born into a time of fear and oppression, so too was Jesus.When Moses was born in Egypt, Pharaoh, fearing that the Israelites might threaten his rule, ordered the mass killing of Hebrew male infants. Only baby girls were spared. To save her child, Moses’ mother hid him in a basket among the reeds, where he was later rescued and raised in Pharaoh’s palace.Similarly, at Jesus’ birth, King Herod, afraid of losing his throne, ordered the massacre of all boys two years old and under in Bethlehem and its surrounding areas. The very same pattern of power-driven violence repeated itself: those in authority sought to eliminate any perceived threat to their reign.The Slaughter Happens TodayThis is how worldly powers maintain control—through violence and oppression. But God’s authority is different. It is not upheld by force, but by love, compassion, kindness, and generosity. This divine power threatens earthly rulers because it stands in direct contrast to their reliance on fear and brutality.Though these events occurred in the time of Pharaoh and Herod, they continue today. How many children have perished in war-torn regions like Gaza and Ukraine? How many have been killed in hospitals, bombed along with the buildings that were meant to heal them? How many children have become refugees, fleeing destruction with their families, seeking safety across borders?The story of Jesus mirrors the suffering of these innocent ones. Just as he was forced into exile in Egypt to survive, so too do countless children today endure displacement and hardship. The Feast of the Holy Innocents is not just a remembrance of the past—it is a call to action in the present.What Can We Do TodayAs Christians, we must ask ourselves: What can we do in response to the suffering of children today? How can we stand against the injustices that make the most vulnerable among us victims of violence and oppression?Another lesson from this feast comes from Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. He listened to God’s voice, obeyed without hesitation, and took Jesus to safety. The Feast of the Holy Innocents reminds us that obedience to God must come first. We, too, are called to listen—to hear the cries of the innocent and to respond with faith and action.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Faith in the Face of Violence: The Message of the Holy InnocentsFaith in the Face of Violence: The Message of the Holy Innocents------------------------------------------Image:The Virgin and Child surrounded by the Holy Innocents: Flemish Painter: Peter Paul Rubens: 1616 ------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 2: 13-18First Reading: 1 John: 1: 5 – 2:2
Receiving and Sharing God’s Love: The Secret of St. John the Evangelist The Witness of Love: Learning from St. John the EvangelistYesterday, as we honored the Feast of St. Stephen, we reflected on his life and martyrdom. The word “martyr” means to witness—offering a total and unwavering testimony of faith.Today, we celebrate another profound witness: St. John the Evangelist. Among the apostles, he alone was not martyred, yet his entire life was a testimony to God’s love. Every day, he bore witness to this love, living in its fullness. No wonder he is called the Beloved Disciple.John was present at the pivotal moments of Christ’s life—at the Transfiguration, in the Garden of Olives, and at the foot of the Cross, when others had fled. He was also among the first to witness the Resurrection, running ahead of Peter to the empty tomb. The Gospel tells us that when he saw, he believed.The Secrets of St. John’s WitnessThe first key to John’s unwavering faith is revealed in his own writings: “Beloved, what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen, what we have touched—that is the Word of Life.”To truly witness Christ, we must encounter Him personally. Have we heard, seen, and touched Jesus in our lives? We cannot bear witness to what we do not know. John teaches us that faith begins with receiving God’s love—only then can we share it with others. His letters emphasize that we cannot claim to love God if we do not love one another.The second lesson comes from the moment at the empty tomb. John ran faster than Peter, yet he did not enter first—he waited out of respect. When they both entered, the Gospel tells us that John saw and believed. Faith is nurtured by love, reverence, and humility. Perhaps our own struggles in faith stem from not fully receiving God’s love, which alone enables us to love others better.A Story of TransformationA story is told of a man who converted to Catholicism. Before his baptism, a priest asked him some basic questions about the faith.“Where was Jesus born?” the priest asked.The man hesitated. “I’m sorry, Father, I don’t know.”“Who was Jesus’ foster father?”“Gabriel… or maybe I forgot.”The priest, surprised, questioned whether the man was serious about his faith. But the man responded:“Father, before I chose to become a Catholic, I was a terrible husband and father. I drank heavily, smoked, and was violent toward my family. My children feared me, and my wife suffered under my anger. I tried many times to change, but nothing worked.Then, at a funeral Mass, I heard a homily that touched me deeply. I realized God’s love was calling me to transformation. And for the first time, change was not impossible—it was happening within me. So, Father, if you ask me where Jesus was born, I may not know. But I do know this—Jesus is my Savior, because He changed me.”Mary: The Final Secret of John’s FaithAt the foot of the Cross, Jesus entrusted Mary to John. The Gospel tells us that John took her into his home. This is another secret to his unwavering faith—he walked his journey with Mary. She, who carried the Word made flesh, helps us receive and respond to God’s love more perfectly.This Christmas, and every day, may we first receive God’s love, so that we may share it with others. We cannot give what we do not have.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Receiving and Sharing God’s Love: The Secret of St. John the Evangelist------------------------------------------Image:Saint John the Evangelist: Italian Painter and Artist: Pompeo Girolamo Batoni: 1741------------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 20: 1, 2-8First Reading: 1 John: 1: 1-4
He Must Increase: St. John the Baptist’s Lessons in Spiritual Humility The first reading comes from the First Letter of St. John, ending with a powerful reminder:“Do not make yourselves idols.” This message speaks to the human tendency to create idols—objects, ideas, or even people—that we elevate to the status of a god. An idol is something we design in our own image, reflecting our desires and aspirations for something greater than ourselves.We long for a power beyond us, something to admire and worship. Yet, when we create idols, we project our image and values onto them. The first and most common idol is ourselves. Beyond this, we may turn wealth, fame, or popularity into idols, allowing them to occupy the place meant for God. These creations may offer temporary satisfaction but cannot fulfill our deepest longing for the absolute.The Essence of LifeSt. John’s message to his community is clear: there is only one God. This God humbled Himself, taking human form as a baby in an act of ultimate humility. When we forget this truth, we lose sight of the essence of our lives.He Must IncreaseThis ties closely to the Gospel, where St. John the Baptist declares, “He must increase; I must decrease.” How does this call to humility transform our spiritual lives? Reflect on this profound truth as you listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:He Must Increase: St. John the Baptist’s Lessons in Spiritual Humility--------------------------------Image:Saint John the Baptist: German Painter: Lucas Cranach the Elder : 1552--------------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 3: 22-30First Reading: 1 John: 5: 14-21
Devotion to Mary: Levels of Consecration For those that are considering making an act of Consecration to Our Lady, there are normally several questions.What exactly is Consecration vs. Total Consecration? How do the various forms of Consecration relate to each other?In this audio, the Levels of Consecration are described as degrees or steps. Total Consecration To Jesus Through Mary is the highest form of Consecration, according to St. Louis de Montfort. It is why he called it – Perfect Consecration. Find out more about the five Levels of Consecration.Listen to this Spiritual Insight Media. Listen to:Devotion to Mary: Levels of Consecration -----------------------------------------------Note: Two Media Formats of the Same ConferenceThe conference has two formats. The audio is the same for both. However, the video link (available only on the QoAH's website) is provided for those that wish to visually see the conference. The audio format allows the user to listen and not actually look at the device.
The Root of Jesse and the Bloom of Christ: An Advent MeditationThe entrance antiphon for today’s Mass reflects a powerful image.“A shoot shall sprout from the root of Jesse.” Sometimes translated as “from the stump of Jesse,” this image resonates deeply when we pause to consider its implications. A stump represents what remains after a tree has been cut down, a remnant of something once towering and alive. To envision a shoot springing from such a root is to witness life emerging from death, hope bursting forth where none seemed possible.The Promise of New LifeThis imagery encapsulates a central theme of Advent—the promise of new life. The shoot symbolizes the Blessed Virgin Mary, not Jesus directly. From the fallen line of Jesse and David, Mary emerges as the life-bearing shoot, preparing the way for the bloom and fruit to come. Jesus, the Messiah, is the flower and fruit of this miraculous shoot, fulfilling the promise of salvation.Today’s Scripture readings highlight this theme, beginning with Isaiah’s interaction with King Ahaz. Ahaz, a corrupt and faithless ruler, faces an existential crisis as enemies threaten to destroy his kingdom. Despite his moral failings, God speaks to him through the prophet Isaiah, offering a remarkable opportunity: “Ask the Lord for a sign, as high as the heavens or as deep as the earth.” But Ahaz, cloaked in false humility, refuses, demonstrating cowardice rather than trust.Isaiah’s response, both exasperated and resolute, conveys a divine truth: human hopelessness and indifference do not limit God’s action. God, through Isaiah, declares, “The Lord Himself will give you a sign: the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.” This prophecy transcends Ahaz’s faithlessness, pointing to the ultimate sign of hope and salvation.The Virgin Mary is this SignThe Virgin Mary is this sign. Unlike Ahaz, she responds to God’s call with openness and faith. When the angel Gabriel announces her role in salvation history, her question—“How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?”—is not one of disbelief but of wonder at the divine mystery. Her willing acceptance reveals her as the singular shoot through which God’s promise is fulfilled. Jesus, born of Mary, embodies the salvation foretold by Isaiah.This interplay of prophecy, hope, and fulfillment serves as a powerful reminder during Advent. In the face of sin and darkness, God’s promises stand firm. He calls us to hope, to look beyond present struggles, and to trust in His plan—a plan fulfilled in Mary and brought to fruition in Jesus, the Savior.Listen to this Meditation Media. listen to:--------------------------------Image:The Root of Jesse and the Bloom of Christ: An Advent MeditationThe Tree of Jesse: French Artist and Painter: Jacques de Besançon: 1485The top shows 43 generations within the family tree. The bottom section, the birth and childhood of Mary.The Tree of Jesse is a depiction in art of the ancestors of Jesus Christ, shown in a branching tree which rises from Jesse of Bethlehem, the father of King David. It is, perhaps, the original use of the family tree as a diagram / piece of art representation of a genealogy.--------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 1:26-38First Reading: Is 7:10-14
Mary, Elizabeth, and the Spirit of Advent Encounter As we approach the final days of the Advent season, . . .. . . our readings and prayers guide us to focus more intently on the events and circumstances leading up to the birth of Christ. By the time we reach the last day of Advent, we metaphorically find ourselves standing on the threshold of His Nativity.In this reflective time, we encounter some of the most familiar passages of Scripture. Today, for instance, we hear the well-known account of the Visitation, where Mary visits her cousin, St. Elizabeth. These cherished stories invite us to pause and recognize something profound: their meaning is shaped not only by the text itself but also by the liturgical context in which they are proclaimed.Consider this: tomorrow, we will hear the same Gospel reading again. Why does the Church present us with the same passage two days in a row? It is not because the meaning remains static. Quite the opposite. The Church approaches sacred Scripture in a dynamic way, shaped by the liturgical season and its accompanying prayers and readings.In Advent, the Scripture Readings Do Not Stand AloneIn Advent, the Scripture readings do not stand alone. They are illuminated by the mystery of the season—by its prayers, its spirit of anticipation, and the liturgical context in which they are celebrated. Thus, while tomorrow’s Gospel may echo today’s, its pairing with a different set of readings and prayers will cast a new light on this familiar story.This perspective challenges us to go beyond a surface-level understanding of the Visitation. We often think of it simply as Mary visiting Elizabeth, but this view only captures part of the truth. The more significant “visit” is the presence of Christ, carried in Mary’s womb, encountering Elizabeth and her unborn child, John the Baptist. This sacred meeting speaks to the deeper spiritual realities Advent invites us to ponder.Understand why we hear the story of the Visitation on consecutive days, and what it means for our Spiritual Journey. Listen to this Meditation media. Listen to:Mary, Elizabeth, and the Spirit of Advent Encounter--------------------------------------Image:Mary and Elizabeth: Dutch Painter: Carl Bloch--------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 1: 39-45First Reading: Sg 2: 8-14
God’s Call to Each of Us This Christmas As Christmas draws near, we find ourselves immersed in the exchange of greetings.These greetings come in many forms—gifts, cards, words, and heartfelt messages. Yet, they hold a deeper significance beyond their outward expressions.Giving Inspired by GodWhen a gift is given, it can transcend its material value, especially when inspired by God. Such gifts and words have the power to transform lives, bringing light and change to those who receive them. In these final days of Advent and during the Christmas season, our greetings—be they spoken wishes, acts of kindness, or tokens of peace—carry profound meaning when they are divinely inspired.But this season calls for reflection: What kind of greetings are we offering to others as Christmas approaches? And perhaps more importantly, what kind of greetings are we open to receiving?We are reminded that we cannot give what we do not possess. Only when we truly embrace and are convinced of the blessings we’ve received from God can we share them authentically with others.The first reading offers a powerful example: God’s greeting to Bethlehem. A small and seemingly insignificant city, Bethlehem was chosen not for its fame or achievements but as part of God’s divine plan. Despite its humble stature, Bethlehem was destined to play a pivotal role: “Through you shall come forth a king of Israel.”God Calls Upon Each of UsThis moment teaches us a profound lesson. Even in our weakness, smallness, or lack of influence, God calls each of us to play a role in His plan of salvation. Just as Bethlehem was chosen despite its modesty, we too are invited to recognize our purpose and embrace the role God has entrusted to us.“We have all been saved, but not yet.” There is still work to be done, even in our imperfection. Let this be a season where we reflect on how our greetings—our actions, words, and gifts—fit into God’s grand design.Listen to this meditation and reflect: What remains for our salvation, and how can our Christmas greetings become a part of God’s transformative plan?Listen to:God’s Call to Each of Us This Christmas-------------------------------Image:Adoration of the Shepherds: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst: 1622Notice the use of light in the painting. He was known as a painter that utilized light in his paintings. -------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 1: 39-45First Reading: Mi 5:1-4Second Reading: Heb 10: 5-10
From Darkness to Dawn: The Mystery of Grace Unfolding: Reflections on St. John of the Cross When this weary world approached the shadows of night, . . .. . . the ancient hymn reminds us, the Lord came—not in regal splendor or majestic power, but as a humble child born to Mary, the pure and gentle mother. The saint we honor today, John of the Cross, profoundly shaped the Church’s understanding of the “dark night of the soul.” He gave us language for that profound spiritual experience: the deep longing for God’s presence, met with an aching silence.This “dark night” is marked by yearning and emptiness—the pain of seeking the One our hearts desire, only to find the heavens seemingly unresponsive. It is an essential part of the spiritual journey. Authentic spirituality acknowledges this reality. A faith that claims unbroken intimacy with God is, ultimately, self-deception. Even Mary, the Blessed Mother, experienced the anguish of losing sight of her Son for three days. If she endured such a trial, we should not expect to be exempt.An Essential Part of the Spiritual JourneyAdvent, too, is a season of longing, echoing this experience. Nightfall carries layers of meaning. It is cold, dark, and often restless. For those unable to sleep, the night stretches endlessly, intensifying loneliness and fatigue. In the hymn, night arrives as the culmination of the day’s struggles. It is the image of a world grown weary—of hearts burdened by prolonged labor and unfulfilled promises. Initially, the promise of a Savior sparks eager anticipation. Yet, as years stretch on, waiting becomes harder.The human spirit, though not inherently faithless, grows tired. It seeks solace in lesser things and forgets where to direct its gaze. It’s not that the heart no longer yearns for God; it simply lacks the strength to keep seeking.St. John of the Cross’ “Dark Night”This weariness is something we recognize from our own restless nights, where worries bubble to the surface. St. John of the Cross intimately understood this “dark night.” Betrayed by those who should have supported him, his path was marked by criticism, hostility, and isolation. Even God, to whom he turned for solace, seemed eerily silent. Yet John’s response was extraordinary. His desire for God burned brighter amidst the silence. His heart grew bolder in its pursuit of the distant Lord. And when the dark night eventually gave way to dawn, the light of God’s presence filled him more completely than ever before.The years of longing and emptiness were not wasted. They expanded John’s heart, making it capable of receiving greater grace. What appeared to be emptiness was, in truth, growth. The “dark night” prepared him to be filled more fully with God’s light and love.This pattern resonates in the season of Advent. In the darkness of longing and weariness, God is quietly at work, preparing us. The dark night has purpose. It stretches and strengthens the heart so that when God’s presence returns, it can shine more brightly and fill more completely. The waiting, the calling out, the apparent silence—all of it contributes to the mystery of grace unfolding in our lives.In the end, the night is not the end. It is preparation for the dawn. Hear more and understand the impact of the Dark Night within our own Spiritual Journey.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:From Darkness to Dawn: The Mystery of Grace Unfolding: Reflections on St. John of the Cross-------------------------------Image:The Vision of St. John of the Cross: French Painter: Charles de la Fosse: 1600sThis is a depiction of St. John of the Cross’ drawing of Our Lord. St. John is a Doctor of the Church and is known for his writings. In 1575, he also drew a vision of Christ on the Cross. This image illustrates Our Lord and St. John of the Cross.-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 7:9-13First Reading: Sir 48:1-4, 9-11
God’s Unfailing Love: Transforming Burdens into BlessingsCasting Our Burdens Upon the LordAs the Gospel reminds us, Jesus invites us to come to Him, for He is humble and gentle in heart. This message resonates deeply, as all of us face difficult moments in life. We carry various burdens—some stemming from responsibilities, others from personal struggles.Leadership, whether in the workplace, at home, or in other areas of life, can be heavy. As leaders, we bear the responsibility of guiding others, fulfilling obligations, and making tough decisions. Parents, too, shoulder the burden of raising their children in the way of the Lord, often confronting the pain of watching their children stray from the path of righteousness. This pain is compounded by the longing for their well-being and the anguish when they choose contrary paths.The Burden of the PastMany of us also carry the burden of our past. Memories of mistakes, missed opportunities, and harm caused to others weigh heavily on our hearts. These recollections can be painful, resurfacing again and again despite our efforts to forget. They remind us of times we failed to love, to act rightly, or to be faithful to our calling.Feeling Forgotten by GodAt times, like the Israelites in the first reading, we feel abandoned by God. We wonder if our struggles are hidden from Him or if He has forgotten us. We ask, “God, where were You when I faced this pain? Where are You now in my struggles?” This sense of helplessness often leads to doubt, especially among the youth, who may feel their prayers go unanswered. In their frustration, some turn away, taking matters into their own hands.The Assurance of God’s PowerYet, the prophet Isaiah reminds us of God’s unmatched power and enduring presence. Isaiah calls us to look at the stars, the creation of God’s hands, as evidence of His greatness. This perspective strengthens our confidence that God is with us through every situation. Even our past mistakes can become steppingstones for growth when entrusted to Him. Hear more within the Homily!The Yoke of Christ’s LoveIn the Gospel, Jesus extends His invitation to all who labor and are burdened, promising rest for their souls. He offers us His yoke, which is the yoke of love. This yoke invites us to view every situation through the lens of love and from the perspective of Jesus. It assures us that, no matter the trials we face, God’s love surrounds us.During Advent, we are called to be people of hope. The first reading assures us that those who hope in the Lord will never be disappointed. When we look at our situations through Jesus’ eyes and live lives rooted in love, we can rest assured that God is working for our good.May we bring our burdens to God, trusting in His care. May we see our circumstances as expressions of His love and allow that love to guide us in loving others. For the God who created us will never abandon us. Hear more on how we do this in this Meditation Media. Listen to:God’s Unfailing Love: Transforming Burdens into Blessings-----------------------------------Image:Jesus the Consolator: Dutch Painter: Carl Bloch: 1875-----------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 11: 28-30First Reading: Is 40:25-31
Hearkening to God’s Music: A Christian’s Dance Dancing is an art that beautifully combines movement and music.At its core, dancing involves two essential elements: the steps we take and the music that inspires them. To dance well, one must first pay close attention to the rhythm, beat, and melody of the music. The steps should flow in harmony with the music, creating a seamless connection between sound and movement. It would feel out of place to see someone dancing without music—there is no rhythm to guide their steps.This concept can be likened to living a Christian life. As Christians, we are the dancers, and Jesus is the music. A good Christian life requires us to listen to Jesus attentively, allowing His presence and guidance to shape our actions. Just as a skilled dancer synchronizes their movements with the music, a good Christian aligns their life with the teachings of Christ.To Live As Faithful ChristiansTo live as faithful Christians, we must actively listen to Jesus and allow Him to lead our steps. When we hearken to His voice—when we truly take His words to heart and act on them—we become better followers of Christ. In this way, we become both excellent dancers and devoted Christians.Listening is crucial in both dancing and our spiritual journey. In the book of Isaiah, God declares that He gives us what is good and directs our steps. However, He calls us to go beyond mere hearing and instead hearken to His commandments. There is a significant difference between hearing and hearkening. Hearing is passive; it involves receiving sound without taking action. Hearkening, on the other hand, is active and intentional. It compels us to act, to move, and to take steps in response to what we hear.Listening is Crucial in Our Spiritual JourneyGod assures us that He provides the rhythm for our lives and teaches us the path to follow. But to prosper, we must do our part—we must hearken to His word. This means listening with intention and allowing His message to influence our actions.In the Gospel, Jesus compares His generation to people who hear music but do not dance. He is playing the flute for us, but do we move to its melody? Do we allow His words to inspire and guide us? Jesus emphasizes that wisdom is revealed through our actions. Listening to God’s word must lead to works—it must affect how we live, what we say, and how we interact with others.May the gospel we hear today move us to action. May it guide our steps and help us live our Christian lives with purpose and grace. Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Hearkening to God’s Music: A Christian’s Dance----------------------------------Image:Song of the Angels: French Painter: William Adolphe Bouguereau: 1881----------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 11: 16-19First Reading: Is 48: 17-19
The Immaculate Conception: Rooted in Faith, Fulfilled in GraceToday, we celebrate the profound mystery of the Immaculate Conception of our Blessed Lady.Although formally proclaimed as doctrine less than 200 years ago, its roots run deep in the ancient traditions of Christian faith and practice. This belief flows naturally from what we profess about Jesus Christ, for everything we affirm about the Virgin Mary is ultimately derived from our faith in Him. Nothing we proclaim about Mary stands apart from or beyond our belief in Christ—it is, instead, the fruit of that faith.From the very beginning, the Church has boldly proclaimed Jesus as the Savior, the one who secures God’s victory over sin and death. Jesus, the Word made flesh, came to us through the Virgin Mary. He is not merely a man or the highest of created beings but truly God, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father. This central truth of Christ’s divinity compels us to ask deeper questions: What does it mean for our salvation? What does it mean for Mary, who bore Him?Salvation is not simply the restoration of paradise lost. It is far greater; a sharing in God’s very life, a gift only God Himself can bestow. No created being, however exalted, can grant this. Only God can bring us into this divine life, and in His infinite love, He chose to do so by taking flesh in Mary’s womb. Consequently, we honor her not merely as the mother of Christ or of His humanity, but as the Mother of God—a title that reflects the singular mystery of her role in salvation history.This Mystery also Highlights Mary’s Unique SanctityThis profound mystery also highlights Mary’s unique sanctity. As the one chosen to bear God Himself, she was prepared in a manner befitting her unparalleled vocation. Just as a worthy temple is built for the glory of God, so too was Mary created to be a sinless vessel, entirely pure from the moment of her conception. Early Christians recognized her as the “new Eve,” free from sin and full of grace, reflecting the dignity required for one who would bear the Savior of the world.Mary’s perpetual virginity and motherhood are another testimony to her unique role in salvation history. Unlike any other, she remains both Virgin and Mother, emphasizing her singular relationship with God. Through her, the divine Word became flesh, not by earthly origin but by the Holy Spirit’s power. Her virginity underscores the divine nature of her Son, while her motherhood reveals her intimate participation in God’s redemptive plan.As we contemplate the Immaculate Conception, we recognize its significance for our salvation. Mary’s sinlessness was not for her own sake but for ours. She was prepared to bring Christ into the world, and through Him, we receive the fullness of divine grace. Just as a fine wine poured into a clean glass retains its purity, so too did Christ’s presence within Mary require a vessel free from corruption. Her immaculate state reflects the extraordinary nature of God’s plan and invites us to marvel at His boundless love.Hear why this is important to understand on this special Feast Day. Understand what the Immaculate Conception means for our salvation. Listen to:The Immaculate Conception: Rooted in Faith, Fulfilled in Grace--------------------------------------Image:The Immaculate Conception: Flemish Painter: Peter Paul Rubens: 1628She will crush the serpent’s head.
St. Nicholas: A Legacy of Faith and GenerositySt. Nicholas, the revered Bishop of Myra in Asia Minor, . . .. . . played a significant role in the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. This pivotal council resolved the Christological question of the divine nature of Jesus Christ and His relationship to God the Father. It affirmed that Jesus is both fully God and fully human—distinct yet inseparable.St. Nicholas is celebrated not only for his theological contributions but also for the many legends surrounding his generosity and gift-giving. His life and teachings remind us of the deep generosity that stems from faith in Jesus Christ. Hear more within the Homily!St. Nicholas' LessonsAs we prepare for Christmas, we are called to a dual transformation: one that rearranges our homes to welcome the Holy Family and the Nativity scene, and, more profoundly, one that reorients our inner lives. This season invites us to ask the Lord for what we truly need.Once we receive His blessings, we are sent forth to proclaim the good news: that God dwells among us, that He is Emmanuel—God with us.Listen more in this inspiring homily and Meditation Media. Listen to:St. Nicholas: A Legacy of Faith and Generosity-----------------------------Image:St. Nicholas: Czech Painter: Jaroslav Čermák: (lived) 1830-1878-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 9: 27-31First Reading: Is 29: 17-24
Called to Compassion: Sharing Christ’s Message Through DeedsIn the last several days’ readings, we hear about the prophecies . . .. . . which foretell that the blind will see, the mute will speak, the crippled will walk, and the deaf will hear. These miracles have been the focus of this week’s readings, and in the Gospel, we see Jesus fulfilling these promises. He restores sight to the blind, enables the mute to speak, feeds the hungry, and heals the crippled. Similarly, the words of Prophet Isaiah assure us that those who weep will no longer mourn, and the Lord will provide bread, water, and guidance for His people.In the Gospel, Jesus moves among the people, doing good, healing the sick, and proclaiming the Kingdom of God. This fulfillment of prophecy affirms that Jesus is the promised Messiah. He is the one foretold by the prophets, the one we are called to trust. There is no other. Only He can provide what we truly need in life.Jesus Wants to Help UsThe Gospel also reveals Jesus’ compassionate heart. He sees the troubled and distressed, likening them to sheep without a shepherd, and He cares deeply. Unlike others who may ignore or dismiss our problems, Jesus takes our struggles personally. He wants to help, heal, and bring peace.If we trust Jesus, we will understand the depth of His love and care. He restores us and gives us new life. Seeing the need for guidance and care, He tells His disciples that the harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few. He urges them to pray for more laborers and sends them out to show compassion, heal the sick, and proclaim that the Kingdom of God is nearby.As Christians, we are called to live out this message. Our lives and actions should reflect the nearness of God’s Kingdom. Jesus sends us not only to preach but also to heal, encourage, and bring hope to the hopeless.We all face struggles, whether they stem from health issues, financial concerns, or the weight of our past mistakes. Often, memories of harm we’ve caused or betrayals we’ve committed make us feel helpless. But Jesus calls us to bring these burdens to Him. He offers hope and restoration, empowering us to share this hope with others.Through Our Deeds . . .As Saint Francis of Assisi famously said, “Preach at all times; if necessary, use words.” While words have power, it is through our deeds that we truly embody the message of Christ.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Called to Compassion: Sharing Christ’s Message Through Deeds--------------------------------Image:Jesus’ Discourse to His Disciples: French Painter: James Tissot--------------------------------Gospel: Matthew: 9:35–10:1, 5-8First Reading: Is 30: 19-21, 23-26
St. Andrew the Apostle: First Called and the Lessons He Gives to the ChurchThe first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the Advent Season, . . .. . . a sacred time of preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of the Lord. While it’s common to think that Advent begins by simply counting back four Sundays from December 25th, the Church follows a different tradition. Advent’s start is actually determined by the Sunday closest to the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle.St. Andrew’s LessonsThis connection between St. Andrew’s feast and the beginning of Advent holds deep significance. Every year, St. Andrew’s feast day either coincides with the first days of Advent or stands at its threshold, marking the season’s start.Why is St. Andrew’s feast tied so closely to Advent? It’s not just a coincidence based on the date of his martyrdom. Rather, it reflects the profound witness and example St. Andrew offers to the Church—a model of faith and discipleship as we begin this holy season of anticipation.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:St. Andrew the Apostle: First Called and the Lessons He Gives to the Church-----------------------------Image:Saint Andrew the Apostle: Flemish Artist and Painter: Peter Paul Rubens: 1611The painting shows the calling of St. Peter and St. Andrew.-----------------------------Gospel: Matthew: 4: 18-22First Reading: Rom 10: 9-18
By Perseverance, We Secure Our Lives: A Christian Journey By your perseverance, you will secure your life.What is the ultimate goal of Christian life? Is it happiness? Perhaps happiness is a consequence, but it is not the goal! Is it eternal life? Again, while it may be a result, it is not the primary goal! Is it to love others? Yes, that may be a beautiful outcome, but it is still not the goal! What about receiving praise or honor? No, that too might happen, but it is not the purpose.What is the Goal of Christian Life?So, what is the goal of Christian life? It is to live in truth—not truth as we perceive it, nor as the world defines it, but truth as God reveals it.This question of truth came up in the Gospel we celebrated last week for the Solemnity of Christ the King. In His dialogue with Pontius Pilate, Jesus declared, “I came to testify to the truth, and anyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.” When Pilate asked, “What is truth?” no immediate answer was given. Yet we know from John 14 that Jesus had already told His disciples, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”Living in truth means living in Jesus. And Jesus warns us: those who live in truth should expect challenges, sufferings, and even persecution. Parents, siblings, and friends may turn against us. The world may misunderstand or hate us. Yet, Jesus assures us that by our perseverance, we will secure our lives—not merely this earthly life, but eternal life.By Our PerseverancePersecution for faith is not abstract. It happens daily. Some are denied the right to worship freely. Others face ridicule or violence. Jesus Himself tells us that persecution is inevitable for those who follow Him. Hear more within the Homily!Despite this, Jesus calls us to persevere. This perseverance secures not our earthly comfort, but eternal life. Let us pray for those living in hostile environments who struggle to keep their faith. May we receive the strength and courage to endure. And let us pray for ourselves, that we may never persecute others through our words or actions.Listen more to this Homily. Listen to:By Perseverance, We Secure Our Lives: A Christian Journey---------------------------Image:The Light of the World: American Artist and Painter: Charles Bosseron Chambers: 1919---------------------------In 1919, Charles Chambers was commissioned to create paintings for the side altars of the newly constructed St. Ignatius Church in Chicago, Illinois. Among his works was a painting of St. Joseph holding the Infant Christ. A detail from this painting became known as The Light of the World. Between 1920 and 1940, millions of copies of the image were sold. Notably, a print of it is visible on the priest’s desk in the 1948 film The Miracle of the Bells.
Preparing for Jesus’ Arrival: Reflecting on the Advent Season We extend our heartfelt wishes . . .. . . for a blessed and joyful new liturgical year to everyone. This new beginning calls us to renew ourselves in how we live and grow closer to God. As we step into this liturgical year, we begin with the season of Advent—a time rich with meaning.Advent’s MeaningThe word Advent originates from the Latin term Adventus, meaning “arrival” or “coming.” This season reflects three profound aspects of Christ’s arrival.The First Coming:Advent reminds us of the historical reality of our Lord Jesus Christ’s coming to earth. He became man, walked among us, and fulfilled the promise of God. The prophet Jeremiah foretold this in the first reading: God would raise a just shoot from David, fulfilling His covenant with Israel. Jesus’ coming is not a myth or a legend; it is a historical truth. He was born as a child, grew among us, and brought salvation to humanity.The Second Coming:Christ also comes to us daily. Advent is a season to recognize His constant presence in our lives. Jesus knocks on the door of our hearts, seeking to be welcomed. He comes to us through His Word, through prayer, and most intimately in the Eucharist. Every day, we are called to open our hearts to Him and embrace His presence.The Final Coming:Lastly, Advent calls us to prepare for Christ’s ultimate return in glory. Just as He came in history and as He continues to come to us daily, He will come again to fulfill God’s divine plan. This final coming reminds us to live with vigilance and hope, ready to welcome Him when He returns.In the Homily, we hear a story about one family’s preparation for Our Lord’s Final Coming and its implications for all of us.As we journey through Advent, let us reflect on our readiness for Christ’s presence in all its forms. Let us prepare our hearts, welcome Him daily, and live with joyful anticipation of His final coming.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Preparing for Jesus’ Arrival: Reflecting on the Advent Season--------------------------Image:Christ: The Last Judgement: Italian Artist and Painter: Michelangelo: 1536-1541This is a very small portion of a much larger Sistine fresco painted by Michelangelo twenty-five years after painting the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
Jesus’ Call to Vigilance: What Does “Stay Awake” Really Mean?Today’s Gospel recounts the parable of ten virgins . . .. . . waiting for the bridegroom’s return, each with lamps in hand. Five brought extra oil, preparing for the unknown length of the wait, while the other five did not. All ten eventually fell asleep.One striking irony in this story is how it ends: Jesus tells His disciples to “stay awake,” right after describing how everyone in the parable succumbed to slumber. This contrast highlights the central theme of the passage—the tension between wakefulness and slumber.The parable begins with a certainty: the bridegroom will come, and the wedding feast will take place. The virgins are not mere attendees; they play an essential role in this event. Jesus is addressing His disciples, those He has chosen, those who share a significant part in His mission. However, even among these chosen ones, wisdom and folly coexist.The story gives us pause. Half of the virgins are wise, half are foolish. It’s a sobering reminder that among those called and included, not all are prepared. Folly, as Jesus warns, can take root even in the hearts of those closest to Him.The Gospel Story Mirrors the Early Days of Spiritual LifeThe bridegroom’s arrival is certain, but the timing is not. The waiting period is where the distinction between wisdom and folly emerges. At first, the virgins, full of excitement, gather with lamps burning brightly. This initial enthusiasm mirrors the early days of spiritual life, marked by joy, passion, and an eagerness to embrace faith or vocation.Yet, such fervor often fades. The long hours of waiting—representing the trials and monotony of life—set in. The initial joy is harder to sustain, and all, even the wise, fall asleep.The true test comes when the bridegroom finally arrives, and the call to readiness echoes through the night. What distinguishes the wise from the foolish is not whether they fell asleep but whether they prepared for the unexpected.Jesus’ admonition to “stay awake” is not merely about avoiding physical slumber but about maintaining a state of spiritual vigilance. It’s a call to prepare our hearts, deepen our faith, and persevere, even when the waiting feels endless. How?Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus’ Call to Vigilance: What Does “Stay Awake” Really Mean?-------------------------------------Image:The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins: English Poet and Painter: William Blake: 1822-1826
The Presentation of Our LadyToday we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lady in the Temple, . . .. . . a celebration with a unique and somewhat debated history in the Roman Church calendar. Following the Second Vatican Council’s revisions, questions arose about whether to retain this feast. While it had modest significance in the Western tradition, it holds profound importance in the Eastern Churches, where it has been celebrated for centuries. This prominence is partly due to the dedication of a significant church in Jerusalem on November 21, the origin of this feast’s date.Ultimately, the Church chose to keep the feast as a gesture of respect for the shared traditions of the global Christian community. This decision underscores the Roman Church’s recognition of the deep reverence for Our Lady shared with the Eastern Orthodox and other Christian traditions. On this feast, we honor the collective devotion to Mary and the pivotal role God assigned her in His plan for salvation.The Tradition of this PresentationThe tradition of the Presentation originates from the Protoevangelium of James, an early but non-canonical text written to fill gaps in scripture about Mary’s life. This text, while not divinely inspired, reflects the pious curiosity of early Christians about Mary’s background, including her parents, Joachim and Anne, whose names also come from this source. Historically, their names are unknown, but the Church embraces them as a way to relate to Mary’s human lineage.Mary’s MissionThe narrative of Mary’s presentation parallels Old Testament stories, such as the conception of John the Baptist. These stories emphasize miraculous births to elderly, childless parents, symbolizing God’s intervention in salvation history. However, unlike earlier figures, Mary stands out as a girl with a mission surpassing that of any man in salvation history. Her life mirrors these prophetic figures but also transcends them, pointing to her unique role as the Mother of God.This feast invites us to reflect on the divine purpose in Mary’s life, celebrating her as the bridge between the Old and New Testaments and as the one through whom the world would receive its Savior.Hear more about the Presentation of Our Lady in the Temple. Listen to this Meditation Conference. Listen to:The Presentation of Our Lady--------------------------------Image:Mary, Most Holy: American Artist and Painter: Charles Bosseron Chambers: 1930sThis is an amazing “portrait” of the Blessed Virgin Mary as a child. In the painting, Mary is portrayed as a girl of about five years of age.C. Bosseron Chambers (1880 – 1964) was a painter, illustrator and teacher. One publication describes Chambers as the “Norman Rockwell of Catholic art”.
The God of the Living: Lessons from Jesus and the Sadducees: Preparing Now for Eternal Life We’ve all heard the phrase, . . .. . . “Life is too short; you better enjoy it.” We often use it as a reminder to embrace the fleeting moments of life—whether by traveling, tasting new foods, or seeking out experiences because, as the saying goes, “you won’t live forever.”But as Christians, as children of God, we are called to see beyond this. Yes, life is short, and we should cherish it. But we also know that eternal life is long, and we must prepare for it. While we enjoy the blessings of this earthly life, we must not lose sight of the life to come—life eternal.The Sadducees Did Not Believe in the ResurrectionIn today’s Gospel, we encounter the Sadducees, a group who rejected key beliefs central to the faith. They denied the resurrection, life after death, and the existence of angels. Their arguments stemmed from their strict adherence to the five books of the Torah—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—claiming these scriptures made no mention of resurrection.When the Sadducees approached Jesus with questions about the afterlife, He directly addressed their misunderstandings. He affirmed the reality of the resurrection, stating that those deemed worthy would rise and live eternally. He also affirmed the existence of angels, explaining that in the resurrection, people will be “like angels,” no longer bound by earthly institutions such as marriage.God of The LivingJesus emphasized that God is “not the God of the dead but of the living,” referencing the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who live on in God’s presence. He challenged the Sadducees to interpret the scriptures more deeply, showing that the promise of resurrection and eternal life is woven throughout God’s Word.As we reflect on this teaching, Jesus reminds us of a vital truth: while we prepare to commemorate His first coming (Advent and Christmas), we must also prepare for His second coming. The life we live now is a preparation for eternity.Let us embrace the joy and beauty of this short life while keeping our hearts and minds fixed on the eternal life to come.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The God of the Living: Lessons from Jesus and the Sadducees: Preparing Now for Eternal Life-----------------------------Image:French Painter: James Tissot: 1886Jesus with the Jewish Leaders-----------------------------Gospel: Luke: 20: 27-40First Reading: RV 11:4-12
Discovering the Transformative Love of God In all circumstances, give thanks to the Lord.This timeless truth is exemplified in the story of a little boy who once asked a priest, “Am I going to meet God one day?” The priest confidently replied, “For sure, God will meet you one day.”A few years later, the boy was diagnosed with cancer, and doctors informed him he had only six months to live. Faced with this devastating news, the boy’s father expressed his sorrow, saying, “John, I’m so sorry to hear this.” But the boy replied, “Yes, it’s sad, but it could have been worse. I give thanks to the Lord.”Confused, the boy was asked, “What could have been worse?” The boy responded, “Living over 90 years without discovering the love of God. It’s better to live just 24 years, as I have, knowing that God loves me. It would have been a waste if I hadn’t discovered this love.” Two months later, the boy passed away, but with a heart full of gratitude and joy, having encountered the transformative love of God.Cleansed vs. HealedToday’s readings call us to gratitude, just as the story of the ten lepers in the Gospel teaches. All ten called out to Jesus, “Master, have pity on us,” and Jesus, moved with compassion, told them to show themselves to the priests. On their way, all ten were cleansed.However, only one—a Samaritan—returned to thank Jesus. Why did the others not return? Perhaps they were too overjoyed or took their healing for granted. The key distinction here is that all were cleansed externally, but the Samaritan realized he had been healed internally. Healing involves transformation, a deeper recognition of God’s presence and power in our lives.This story challenges us to reflect: how often do we take life’s blessings for granted? How often do we credit ourselves for our successes, failing to see God’s hand at work? Gratitude involves more than acknowledging the gift; it is about recognizing and cherishing the Giver.An Encounter with Christ is TransformativeSt. Paul reminds us that an encounter with Christ is transformative. Being touched by His love changes us, moving us from cleansing to healing, and from healing to glorifying God. Like the boy who discovered God’s love and the Samaritan who returned to Jesus, our lives can be transformed when we live with hearts full of gratitude and worship.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Discovering the Transformative Love of God-------------------------------Image:God the Father Painting: Italian Painter: Giovanni Battista Cima: 1510-1517-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 17: 11-19First Reading: Ti 3: 1-7
What Jesus’ Parable Teaches About Faithful DevotionIn Luke 17, Jesus teaches His disciples about forgiveness.When Peter asks how many times, they should forgive those who offend them, Jesus provides an answer that challenges their understanding. In response, the disciples say, “Lord, increase our faith,” recognizing that forgiveness is a deeply difficult act.Jesus then offers them a powerful illustration. He explains that even faith as small as a mustard seed can accomplish great things, such as commanding a mountain to uproot and move. To deepen their understanding, Jesus shares a parable about a servant.Faith is Revealed Through Humble ServiceIn the parable, a servant works all day and comes home tired and hungry, only to be told by his master to prepare a meal before taking care of his own needs. From a human perspective, this may seem unfair, even harsh. But Jesus uses this example to emphasize a key lesson: faith is revealed through humble service. Genuine, pure, and sincere faith manifests in complete trust and wholehearted devotion to God.Jesus challenges His followers to adopt the attitude of total service to God, just as a servant faithfully serves their master. This relationship highlights that true faith is not just about belief but about living in full surrender and trust in God’s authority.Listen to more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:What Jesus’ Parable Teaches About Faithful Devotion-------------------------------------Image:Parable of the Mustard Seed: Dutch Poet, Illustrator and Engraver: Jan Luyken: (lived) 1649-1712-------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 17: 7-10First Reading: Ti 2:1-8, 11-14
Faith and the Second Coming of Christ Luke’s gospel, often referred to as the apocalyptic section, . . .. . . speaks about the future and the anticipated return of Jesus Christ. This second coming is eagerly awaited by those with faith, as faith is the first and essential requirement for this expectation. Such faith is nurtured through persistent prayer. At the end of today’s passage, a profound question is posed: When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?This question holds deep significance, especially when we reflect on the state of our world today. Many have abandoned the church. Across the globe—in regions like the Middle East, Africa, and the Americas—we witness parishes closing and communities shrinking as Christians move away from traditional centers of worship. This decline prompts us to ask again: When the Lord returns, will He find faith? Hear more in the Homily!How Do We Remain Faithful?How, then, do we remain faithful as we await the Lord’s return? Today’s gospel offers the answer: persistent prayer. It presents the parable of the widow and the unjust judge. The widow’s relentless appeal to the judge—Do justice for me against my opponent—is a testament to the power of unwavering prayer. Through this story, we are reminded that God, who is infinitely good, will respond to those who remain constant in prayer.Yet, for some, the challenge lies in unanswered prayers. Many have prayed tirelessly for years without seeing their hopes fulfilled. How should we understand this silence? The gospel and homily invite us to reflect further and to trust in God’s perfect timing and plan.Faith is the bridge that connects us to God, and prayer strengthens that connection. As we wait for the Lord’s return, may we hold fast to persistent prayer and unwavering trust in His goodness.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Faith and the Second Coming of Christ---------------------------------Image:cropped version of The Ascension: Dutch Artist and Painter: Rembrandt---------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 18: 1-8First Reading: 3 JN 5-8
Jesus Tells Us: The One Who Loses His Life Will Save It! What Does He Really Mean?The Gospel that we have today is a continuation of what we read yesterday.Yesterday, the Pharisees came to Jesus and asked him, When is the kingdom of God going to come? That was the question. And Jesus said, The kingdom of God cannot be observed.You won’t see someone who is going to announce that here it is or there it is. No. In fact, the kingdom of God is among you. That is was what Jesus said yesterday. The kingdom of God is before you. With the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ, the full revelation of God, the kingdom of God is among us. And then he continues by turning to his disciples and telling them that there shall come a time when you’ll be looking for the son of man and there’ll be different people that will come that will say I’m here. Do not listen to them because just like the lightning so will the son of man come. But first he must suffer. And now, our gospel continues from there.When The Son of Man Is RevealedThe gospel that we have read today, in which Jesus says, just as it was in the time of Noah, so it will be when the Son of Man will be revealed. And what was happening in the time of Noah? As we have heard, people were eating. drinking, marrying and given to marriage, business as usual, until they saw Noah going into the ark and the floods came. They were destroyed.And Jesus says again, just as it was in the time of Lot, so it will be when the Son of Man is revealed. And what was happening in the time of Lot? People were eating, drinking, marrying, giving to marriage, buying and selling, planting, until Lot left Sodom. Fire and brimstone rained down on them and they were destroyed.Jesus Teaches Us A LessonWhat is Jesus inviting you and me? He’s inviting us to hold on to what is essential. Which at times may look like losing our own lives. Eating, drinking, marrying, given to marriage, planting, buying and selling. These are the usual things that we do which help us in our bodily life to survive. Some of them for just our own entertainment.But just as Jesus has said, he who preserves his life, he who only satisfies himself, he who is only limited to the bodily use, will lose his life. But the one who loses it, will save it. And by losing it, what does it mean?Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us: The One Who Loses His Life Will Save It! What Does He Really Mean?-------------------------------Image:The Exhortation to the Apostles: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886Part of the online collection of the Brooklyn Museum.-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 17: 26-37First Reading: 2 JN 4-9
What Happens When Jesus Comes and Completes The Work of Salvation?Today’s scripture reminds us of a fundamental truth: the heart’s ultimate disposition should be to rely on God above all else—before trusting in anyone or anything.Jesus, turning to His disciples, begins by acknowledging the reality of tribulation and turmoil. It’s as if He’s saying, “Don’t be surprised — things may get worse before they get better.” Yet, even as He speaks of these challenges, His focus isn’t on despair!He describes the sun failing to shine, the moon darkening, and the stars dimming and falling from the sky—symbols of all power and light in creation growing silent and empty. In this moment of cosmic powerlessness, the nations will look up and see not an angel but the Son of Man Himself, coming on the clouds of heaven. On that day, no one will be left in doubt; there will be no earthly explanation, for His coming transcends all earthly power and understanding.Jesus’ Second ComingJesus is clear about His purpose: “As I come, I will send my angels to gather those who are mine.” Consider the assurance in those words. No matter how dangerous or violent the moment, His first priority is to claim His own. This is the hope we hold in the promise of Christ’s second coming. It is not about the destruction of the world but the fulfillment of His work of salvation.We don’t anticipate abandonment or loss; we look forward to being gathered and brought home. How marvelous is the promise that, no matter how dark the times, His victorious hand will reach into that darkness and find us.Let us prepare our hearts and focus on the hope and glory of Christ’s return, meditating on this profound question:What happens when Jesus comes to complete the work of salvation?------------------------------------Image:cropped version of The Ascension: Dutch Artist and Painter: Rembrandt ------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 13: 24-32First Reading: DN 12: 1-3Second Reading: HEB 10: 11-14, 18
Eucharistic Revival Conference #5: Liturgy of the EucharistThis marks the final conference of the Eucharistic Revival series.In the previous session, we explored the Liturgy of the Word. Today, we transition to the Table of the Eucharist, and by the end of this conference, we’ll discuss the possible path forward. What potentially comes next? The answer lies in what the Church refers to as the Liturgy of the Eucharist.Listen to this fifth and final installment of the Eucharistic Revival.----------------------------------------------------Note: Two Media Formats of the Same ConferenceThe conference has two formats. See the website for an explanation. ----------------------------------------------------Image:The Last Supper – The First Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Vicente Juan Masip: 1562The first image is a cropped image focusing on The Bread of Life.
Jesus Advises Us on Preparing for Our True Citizenship in Heaven In the first reading, St. Paul delivers a powerful statement.He says, “Our citizenship is in heaven”. This profound assertion suggests that while we live in this world, our ultimate life belongs to heaven. Our existence here is a preparation for that true and eternal citizenship. This perspective does not mean we should withdraw from the world or live as if we are not part of it. Rather, it emphasizes that our earthly life should be oriented towards preparing for our heavenly destiny.St. Paul further explains that when the time comes, God will transform our humble bodies into glorified ones. This means that our current existence will reach its ultimate fulfillment when we enter the true citizenship of heaven.The Dishonest StewardThese powerful declarations are coupled with a challenging Gospel passage involving a prodigal steward who squanders his master’s wealth. In the story, the steward’s mismanagement comes to light, and the master demands an account of his stewardship, ultimately dismissing him. Realizing the gravity of his situation, the steward takes action by renegotiating debts with his master’s debtors, reducing what they owe. By doing this, he seeks to secure his future once he loses his position.Surprisingly, the master praises the steward for his shrewdness. This raises an important question: why commend such a seemingly dishonest individual? Jesus does not endorse the steward’s deceitful actions. Instead, He highlights the steward’s prudence and foresight.What is the lesson Jesus wants to impart? It is a reminder that we should exercise wisdom and spiritual discernment in our lives. Just as the steward took practical steps to prepare for his future, we should act with spiritual prudence to strengthen our relationship with God and prepare for our eternal life.Hear more within the Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Advises Us on Preparing for Our True Citizenship in Heaven--------------------------------Image:The Unfaithful Steward: Unknown Painter: 1560--------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 16: 1-8First Reading: PHIL 3: 17 – 4:1
Jesus Tells Us What God Truly Desires In today’s Gospel, we hear the story of people placing their offerings into the treasury.Jesus takes His disciples, sits down, and observes the people making their contributions. Many offer substantial amounts. However, one widow steps forward and places two small coins—everything she possesses. We have all heard this story before, but what deeper message is God revealing to us?St. Jerome’s Encounter With JesusAt the beginning of the Homily, we learn about St. Jerome, a priest from the 4th century. At the request of the pope, St. Jerome dedicated many years—even decades—to translating the Bible into Latin. The Homily then shares a story of an encounter between St. Jerome and Jesus. In this interaction, Jesus asks St. Jerome for a gift. The saint offers the newly completed translation of the Bible, but Jesus replies that it is not what He desires. Jerome offers other valuable items, but each time, Jesus indicates they are not what He wants. To understand what Jesus truly desires, listen further to the Homily.The Gospel passage and St. Jerome’s story both convey the same message: trust. Jesus calls us to give with complete trust in God.Perhaps our personal ambitions remain unfulfilled. We may feel disappointed. Our spiritual life might feel dry, leaving us unable to sense God’s presence despite our prayers. Or maybe we face the heartache of seeing our children grow in ways that differ from our expectations. Even in these moments, Jesus invites us to trust—to place our faith entirely in God.Explore more of this reflection by listening to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us What God Truly Desires-----------------------------------------Image:The Widow’s Mite : French Painter: James Tissot: 1886-----------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 12: 38-44First Reading: 1 KGS 17: 10-16Second Reading: HEB 9: 24-28
St. Paul Tells Us to Put on the Armor of God: Why and When Should We Do That? Just as St. Paul spoke directly to the early Christians; he addresses the profound inner and outer battles in living the Christian faith.It’s not merely a struggle to live a good life, though that is part of it; rather, it’s a struggle against forces and influences beyond ourselves. St. Paul clearly warns that evil is not just a pious notion—it’s a tangible reality, with a personal nature that pervades all aspects of our fallen world. No institution, political system, economy, or culture escapes its touch. And this shouldn’t surprise us, for each human heart bears the same compromises.St. Paul Provides a Message to Inspire Us!Powerful forces exist that can easily overtake us if we’re not vigilant. But Paul’s message is not intended to alarm; rather, it is to inspire strength and resilience. He urges believers to confront these darker impulses that seek to control and overpower us.To do this, St. Paul offers the timeless call to “put on the armor of God” for protection. This powerful image reminds us that, while temptation, persecution, and a chaotic world are inevitable, we are not without defense. In a fearful world, this truth is a source of hope and courage.Listen to this Meditation Media message as St. Paul teaches us how to stand firm. Listen to:St. Paul Tells Us to Put on the Armor of God: Why and When Should We Do That?-------------------------------------Image: St. Paul the Apostle with Sword: Flemish Artist and Painter: Anthony van Dyck: 1620The Apostle Paul is often depicted with a sword. Why? He writes about putting on the Armor of God. The sword is also a reminder of the means of his martyrdom – he was beheaded in Rome in approximately 67 AD.This artist also has additional work on the QoAH's website.-------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 13: 31-35First Reading: EPH 6: 10-20
Entering Through the Narrow Gate: Jesus Shows Us The Path to Salvation! Today’s gospel recounts a moment when someone approaches Jesus with an important question: “Will only a few be saved?”Jesus responds, urging, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate. Many will try, but only a few will be strong enough to succeed.” This gate, Jesus explains, is not only narrow but will also close at some point.The message is clear: enter while you still have the opportunity. Jesus continues, warning that many will knock when the gate is closed, saying, “We ate and drank with you! Open the door for us!” Yet the Lord will reply, “I do not know where you come from.”Simply identifying as Catholic, being a priest, praying the rosary, or practicing novenas, while valuable, do not guarantee salvation. The Jewish people, as God’s chosen race, believed that their identity alone assured them salvation. Jesus came to challenge and correct this thinking.Practicing Religious Rituals Alone Is Not Enough For SalvationAffiliation with the Catholic Church, being a priest, or practicing religious rituals is not enough for salvation. We must strive to pass through the narrow gate. But what is this narrow gate? Elsewhere in the gospel, Jesus reveals that true freedom in passing through it lies in doing God’s will.What does doing the will of God entail?Salvation cannot be achieved without passing through Jesus. He calls us to daily commitment, guiding us with His teachings. Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Entering Through the Narrow Gate: Jesus Shows Us The Path to Salvation!---------------------------------Image:The Wide Road and the Narrow Road: Dutch Artist: Jan Luyken: 1712 Today’s engraving by Dutch artist Jan Luyken, printed in 1712, serves as an excellent visual companion to our Gospel reading. On the left side of the engraving, we see the wide gate, where people are joyfully dancing and celebrating as they pass through the broad arch. Atop this gate, a carved relief of the earthly globe is displayed, symbolizing the world’s temptations. This path represents the road the world urges us to follow.On the right side of the engraving lies the narrow path mentioned by Jesus in our reading. A man, having taken up his cross, is depicted walking through the narrow gate, joined by others who are also carrying their crosses further along the path. They journey toward a radiant light atop the hill, symbolizing Heaven. In contrast, those on the left are headed toward a storm.---------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 13: 22-30First Reading: EPH 6: 1-9
The Four Last Things – Death, Judgment, Heaven, and HellThe conference opens with the recitation of the Hail Mary.The closing words of this familiar prayer, “now and at the hour of our death,” provide a meaningful starting point for reflecting on The Four Last Things. In these simple words, we speak a profound truth: by praying for the hour of our death, we acknowledge a reality that extends beyond the present, a future beyond the limits of this moment.This recognition is crucial, for it challenges the idea that this world is all there is. By admitting the fragility of the present, we invite the intercession of Mary, not just for navigating this life as if it were the end-all, but for the moment when our earthly life concludes—when something beyond begins.This is Key to Our Human ExperienceThis is key to our human experience. It reminds us of our dual nature in a world marked by sin: we are both perishable and imperishable. Our bodies age, and no matter how well we care for them, time eventually diminishes all physical things. Yet, we sense something within us that endures. In contemplating the four last things, we are engaging with something profoundly important. Time itself has a limit; it, too, will one day cease.Each of us feels this limit individually—our days on this earth are finite. No amount of health or medical advancement can extend our lives indefinitely. Death is the inevitable end of our earthly journey, underscoring the transient nature of life. So, the question arises: when that moment of death arrives, what lies beyond? What are we truly praying for when we say, “now and at the hour of our death”?Explore these questions, and more, in this audio media on:The Four Last Things – Death, Judgment, Heaven, and Hell.-------------------------------Image:The Virgin of Carmen and the Souls of Purgatory with St. Joseph and the Prophet Elijah: Mexican Artist and Painter: Juan Francisco de Aguilera: 1720This small painting on copper, made for individual devotion, depicts the Virgin of Carmen interceding on behalf of souls in purgatory.
Embracing Inclusive Love: Jesus’ Call to Selfless Giving Every good deed receives an award.But the question is, where does this reward come from? Blessed are we if we expect the reward to come from God! In the beginning of the Homily, we hear a story of a specific practice in a distant land. The practice is called “Secret” and is a very good illustration about rewards. Listen to more in the first part of the Homily.Jesus Imparts a Powerful LessonIn today’s Gospel, Jesus imparts a powerful lesson on generosity and selflessness. He advises a religious leader not to invite friends, family, or wealthy neighbors to a meal, as they might reciprocate and invite him in return, offering an earthly reward. Instead, Jesus encourages him to invite those who cannot repay the favor—people who may never return the invitation. By doing so, he will earn a greater reward from God, a heavenly blessing beyond what this world can offer.Does Jesus Mean This Literally?If we interpret Jesus’ words literally, we might think we should avoid hosting our usual gatherings with loved ones. But Jesus’ message goes deeper. What is he truly teaching us? He’s calling us to make our love, generosity, and forgiveness all-encompassing, extending beyond our immediate circles to those in need. Embrace this transformative message by listening to this Meditation Media piece. Listen to:Embracing Inclusive Love: Jesus’ Call to Selfless Giving---------------------------------Image:Feast in the House of Simon the Pharisee: Flemish Artist: Peter Paul Rubens: 1620 The Gospel story is when Jesus is attending a gathering in the House of a Pharisee. This painting depicts another time Jesus gathers in a Pharisee’s home where the washing of the feet occurs.---------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 14: 12-14First Reading: PHIL 2: 1-4
Jesus tells us to Love your Lord God with all Your Heart, Soul and Mind . . . and Love Your Neighbor. What Does That Really Mean for Us? As you may know, many of the Shrine’s Masses are outdoors.After a bit of humor, the priest tells a story when he was based in Rome, he would hear a priest at a parish near his lodging always sing a Latin verse. It translates into English: I Believe In One God!When asks why he sings this verse at each Mass, the answer was the entire bible, and all of scripture stands upon this foundation. It is the foundation of faith. I Believe In One God!God AloneIn today’s first reading, Moses speaks to Israel. Moses says: Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone! These words were kept on the wrists of people of Israel to remind them of God Alone. No kingdom, no king is God. No man is God. This was part of Moses command to Israel. It is also the foundation of Christian Faith. However, humans create there own “gods”. Hear more in the Gospel.Moses tells Israel do not place anything else before God. Love your Lord God with all your heart. Then Gospel tells us something similarWhat does that really mean? Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus tells us to Love your Lord God with all Your Heart, Soul and Mind . . . and Love Your Neighbor. What Does That Really Mean for Us?------------------------------------Image:Jesus Christ: German Artist and Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1894Oil painting currently resides in The Riverside Church, New York City.------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 12: 28-34First Reading: DT 6: 2-6Second Reading: HEB 7: 23-28
Eucharistic Revival Conference #4: Hearing the Word: Why the Gospel Matters in the Liturgy In our last three conferences, we began by exploring the principles of the liturgy.In our first week, we explored the church’s teachings on these principles, focusing on the idea of liturgical participation. This participation, we emphasized, must be active and conscious.We also discussed the “rule of prayer” and the presence of Christ within the Eucharist. We affirmed that Christ is truly present in the Eucharist—specifically in the Blessed Sacrament, in the bread and wine following the prayer of thanksgiving. Additionally, we recognize His presence in His Word, in the priest, and in the gathered community of the church; as scripture reminds us, “where two or three are gathered in His name,” Christ is among them.In our second week, we looked back to the origins of the church’s prayer life, particularly the Liturgy of the Mass, tracing its development from the earliest days of Christianity.Why Do We Proclaim the Gospel?In this conference, we continue our discussion on the Eucharist and the Mass. We’ll continue to explore the structure of the Mass, including the readings and the Gospel. Why do we proclaim the Gospel during Mass? Because it is the Word made flesh—Jesus Himself speaking to us. While reading along may be popular, listening to the Gospel is crucial. Join us as we uncover the significance of truly hearing the Word of God in the Gospel.Listen to Eucharistic Revival: Conference #4: Hearing the Word: Why the Gospel Matters in the Liturgy-----------------------------------------Image:The Last Supper – The First Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Vicente Juan Masip: 1562The first image is a cropped image focusing on The Bread of Life.
What is God Telling Me During My Hardships? This week in the Gospel, Jesus tells us to prepare and to remain awake.We do not know the hour when the Son of Man will come. Today’s Gospel Jesus tells us to interpret the signs of the times. The Homily explains further.In the Homily we also hear of the destructive power of nature that impacted Africa. During this cyclone event many houses were destroyed. Many people had no place to sleep. The people of all faiths used the Church to sleep. On Sunday, they had Mass and after Mass, an older lady asked the following question.Why Does God Allow This To Happen?My house was destroyed. The house, left to her when her son died a few years prior was largely all she had. During Mass, when the priest was preaching, he said God is with us in both the joys and sorrows of life! She finally asks her question. Why did God allow this to happen to me? I am an old lady! Why did He allow this to happen to me?Almost all people ask a similar question in our lives. Why is God allowing me to suffer this much? Why does God allow me to have this disease? Or why am I not getting a job? At one time or another these are but a few questions we may have asked!Most of the times we have no good answers to these questions. Sometimes, people even accuse God! Maybe we are approaching this incorrectly! We know . . . or we should know . . . that God did not cause the events that is troubling you . . . and me!Maybe We Should Be Approaching This Differently!Maybe we should be approaching this differently! What is the message God is trying to convey to you . . . and me . . . during such hardships? What is God telling me in this situation? In today’s Gospel Jesus talks to the crowds. He teaches them . . . and us . . . a lesson.Listen to this Mediation Media. Listen to:What is God Telling Me During My Hardships?--------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 12: 54-59First Reading: EPH 4: 1-6
What Are You Doing With the Time You are Given? Jesus Gives A Lesson for Our Spiritual Journey! The opening of the Homily talks about a gesture that is performed each time the Gospel is proclaimed at Mass.It is important to understand this for our own Spiritual Journey because the Word of God is given to us in love. Regardless of whether the Gospel proclaims a stern message, or a tender message, the Words are given out of love. Hear more in the first few minutes of the Homily.Today’s Gospel is very challenging. Pilot did an act of cruelty. Some Galileans were slaughtered. As is often the case, when there is an experience of evil or tragedy, one of the most painful things about it is it is hard to understand. Evil cannot always be explained. And the pain of not understanding the “why” is often times even worse.When we attempt to understand evil, we often try to assign blame. What did these people do that God allowed them to be punished in such a way? What did I do that God allows this to happen to me? People are willing to say God is punishing those people. No! That is not what is happening! The earthquake, the tidal wave, the hurricane, the disaster that is coming is not caused by God wanting to punish people. That is not what is happening! These events are not happening because God is not happy with them! Again, no! That is NOT what is happening!Do You Really Think God Is Punishing People Exposed to Evil?The Lord says in the Gospel to the people: Do you think these bad things happened because they were bad? Do you think these people were worse than everyone else? Do you think God singled these people out?The Lord looks at the people around him . . . do you really think these people were bigger sinners than you? Note what the Lord is saying in the Gospel! If you are looking at the situation, do not think about what God is saying to those people! Ask yourself what God is actually saying to you!Human sin has produced a world in which bad things can happen! That is a truth! Why is there pain in the world? Because we humans have brought it upon ourselves. Hear more in the Homily!Jesus Provides Us With A LessonThe real point the Lord is making is this: Look to see how fragile your life is. Look and see how brief your life is. That is the lesson. The lesson is not to see what bad happens to others. It is to see how fragile life is in this world.If you recognize how fragile and how brief our time is in this world, then this leads to a question. What are you doing with the time you are given? Listen more within the Homily!Listen to this Meditation Media. Hear more within:What Are You Doing With the Time You are Given? Jesus Gives A Lesson for Our Spiritual Journey---------------------------Image:The Accursed Fig Tree: French Artist and Painter: James Tissot: 1886In the Gospel we hear about the accursed fig tree.---------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 13: 1-9First Reading: EPH: 4: 7-16
Jesus Does Not Immediately Respond to a Prayer for a Reason. He Wants Us to Pray in Confidence!As we move through the last several weeks of ordinary time, there will be a shift in the overall tone of scripture.There will be a note of ultimacy. We hear that in today’s readings of scripture. In today’s Gospel we hear of a blind man on the side of the rode. In the first reading we hear about a return from exile. At first glance this may sound like an odd pairing of ideas the Church has with today’s readings.The key to both of these readings is the events happen when Jesus is going someplace. In the Gospel He has left Jericho, because He is on the way to Jerusalem. He is going to Jerusalem to win our salvation on The Cross. He is going to where salvation will be achieved and won.In the first reading there is movement as well. The return of the people in exile is not merely a political moment. People are freed and on their way to their new home. It is also a vision of fallen man. They are exiled in this world longing for heaven. Longing for salvation. Longing for an end to their persecution.The Lord holds out a vision, not of Israel of old, but a new promise. Hear more within the Homily!Jesus and the Blind Man at the Side of the RoadIn the Gospel we hear of the blind man by the side of the road. When we are inflicted, life often passes us by. When we are wounded and overwhelmed, we can feel overlooked as the world continues around us.For the blind man life passes by. But on this day, Life itself passes by. He understands Jesus is near and he calls out to Jesus. When he was by the side of the road, he called out for the scraps of the world. The world largely ignored him. The world could not make him better. Jesus then passes by. Listen to the lesson for us all. Hear more in the Homily!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Does Not Immediately Respond to a Prayer for a Reason. He Wants Us to Pray in Confidence!----------------------------Image:Healing of the Blind Man by Jesus Christ: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch: 1871----------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 10: 46-52First Reading: Jer: 31: 7-9Second Reading: HEB: 5: 1-6
St. Luke: A Friend in Faith Today the Church celebrates the Feast of St. Luke, evangelist.Luke wrote his Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. Together, they represent approximately twenty-five percent of the New Testament’s scripture. Interesting, Luke begins his Gospel.Since many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the events that have been fulfilled among us, just as those who were eyewitnesses from the beginning and ministers of the word have handed them down to us, I too have decided, after investigating everything accurately anew, to write it down in an orderly sequence for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may realize the certainty of the teachings you have received.Luke: A Man of Many TalentsLuke is not one who walked with Jesus. He heard the teachings of the Apostles and read all that was written about Jesus and His ministry. Assembling all this information, he sits down and creates an orderly account . . . which becomes the Gospel. Luke was an extraordinary writer . . . and more. He was a physician and was well educated. He was also a painter.There was a time when people questioned why having four Gospels was a good idea, since Luke’s Gospel was so well written. What is important was Luke followed Paul and heard him speak. In doing so Luke converts to Christianity based on the strength and testimony of Paul’s teachings of Jesus Christ.Luke: A Follower and Friend to St. PaulWhen this happens, he becomes a companion of Paul. When Paul is imprisoned, Luke (secretly) visits him to learn further of Paul’s experiences, mission and wisdom. It is based on these conversations and Paul’s experiences that we have the Acts of the Apostles. When we hear in the first few chapters of the Acts of the Apostles about the Resurrection, we are hearing and understanding St. Paul’s description of this amazing event.Paul mentioned that several companions of Paul . . . we might even call them disciples of Paul . . . abandoning him. However, Luke remained. Luke was a dear friend of Paul in faith. Paul suffers in chains in prison. But he has a friend in Luke with him. Hear more in the Homily!Interesting, Luke is the only Gospel that tells us about the “72” disciples going out two-by-two. This is today’s scripture reading. The Homily tells us these ministers were not sent alone, but in pairs. We also hear more on the Topic: Friends in Faith are friends to gather together to pray. We all need friends in faith, even today. It is important within our Spiritual Journey. Understand why this is important. Listen more within the Homily.Hear more in this Meditation Media and understand its message for our own Spiritual Journey. Listen to:St. Luke: A Friend in Faith----------------------------- Mary in the Gospel of St. LukeThe Queen previously published two separate sets of articles reviewing Mary in the Gospel of St. Luke. They can be found in the Long Running Article Series.The two sets of articles are:Mary, In The Gospel of Luke: The Annunciation Series andMary, In The Gospel of Luke: The Infancy Narratives.----------------------------- Image:16th-century Russian version showing copy of the Theotokos of Vladimir: Vladimir Mother of GodAs we hear in the Homily, St. Luke was multi-talented. He was a painter. Tradition has it that he painted the Blessed Mother. Read more about this on the QoAH’s website post. Please check out the two links above on the QoAH's website displaying other images of Our Lady influenced by St. Luke.----------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke: 10: 1-9First Reading: 2 TIM: 4: 10-17
Eucharistic Revival Conference #3: The Importance of the Eucharistic Prayer Last week we began looking at the Mass and the prayers of the Mass through the centuries.Ultimately the journey will take us through examining the Mass in the Past, the Present and Potentially the Future.We started the journey by examining the prayer of the consecration or the Eucharistic prayer. It may also be called the Prayer of Consecration. We examined the New Testament text of the Institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper.The Last Supper captures the essence of what Jesus did: He took the bread, gave thanks, broke it, and shared it with his disciples. This moment is recounted in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, as well as in St. Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians.Today we look at several topics including a more detail look at the Eucharistic prayer through the centuries and how Roman Canon impacts the Mass.Listen to:Eucharistic Revival Conference #3: The Importance of the Eucharistic Prayer-----------------------------------------Image:The Last Supper – The First Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Vicente Juan Masip: 1562
History Remembers His Greatness: Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and MartyrThe Saint we honor today, Saint Ignatius of Antioch, is one of the most remarkable men that history has ever produced.Tradition holds that when the disciples were arguing among themselves about who was the greatest, Jesus sat down and placed a child on His lap. Unless you become one such as this little one, you cannot enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Tradition says that child who received a kiss from Jesus sitting upon His lap was Ignatius. Ignatius grew in his faith. Hear more within the Homily!Bishop of AntiochIgnatius became the third Bishop of Antioch. The first was St. Peter. Antioch was where the word Christians was first used. He was martyred in approximately the year 110 A.D. He died about 15 or 20 years after the death of St. John, the Apostle. He is one of the earliest witnesses to the early Church. His witness comes down to us by the way he lived the words of today’s scripture passages. Hear more in the Homily!I Am A Christian!When the Romans came upon Antioch, they offered the people . . . pain or pleasure. If you surrender to the Romans, life will be easy and there will be rewards. Ignatius stood before the Roman leaders. Ignatius was asked what type of man stands before the emperor? He said . . . I am a Christian! When asked what was so great about that, Ignatius continued. I have Christ alive in me . . . and you do not!These words led to his martyrdom. He was arrested immediately. Because he spoke in such a manner to the emperor, Ignatius was put to death in Rome . . . in the Coliseum . . . as an example to all.Understand what actually made Saint Ignatius of Antioch such a great man. Listen to:History Remembers His Greatness: Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr-----------------------------Image:Saint Ignatius of Antioch: Austrian Artist: Leopold Kupelwieser: 1800s-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 11: 47-54First Reading: EPH 1: 1-10
St. Paul Prays for All to have the Spirit that Allows You to Appreciate the Glorious Goodness of What God has Done . . . For You! There is a beautiful wisdom that underlines the words Jesus gives us in today’s Gospel.Today’s Gospel tells us about acknowledging Him. Jesus also says that one is not to be worried or troubled if dragged before hostile people. Difficult? Yes! Hear more within the Homily!St. Paul Prays For Us!In the first reading Paul does not pray for people to say or do great things. He prays that people will grow in spirit to appreciate the lesser things. Christians, perhaps all humans, often focus on great things. We often put the greater things ahead of the lesser things. That is not what St. Paul prays for the early Church . . . and for us!He Prays for Us to Have the Spirit . . .St. Paul prays for all to have the spirit that allows you to appreciate the glorious goodness of what God has done . . . for you! He also prays for you to have an understanding and an appreciation of the Hope that God has for you!Hear more within the Homily! Listen to:St. Paul Prays for All to have the Spirit that Allows You to Appreciate the Glorious Goodness of What God has Done . . . For You!-----------------------------Image:Saint Paul the Apostle: Italian Artist: Giovanni Francesco Barbieri: 1600s-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 12: 8-12First Reading: EPH 1: 15-23
Eucharistic Revival Conference #2: The History and Potential Future of the Mass: A Journey Through Eucharistic Worship In Eucharistic Revival Conference #1, we explored the reasons behind the need for this revival and clarified its purpose.We focused on reintroducing the sacrament of the body and blood of Christ and examined the inspiration for the National Eucharistic Renewal. A key concern discussed was that 70 percent of Catholics attending Sunday Mass do not believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Another pressing issue is the decline in Mass attendance. The goal of the revival is to reignite Eucharistic faith during this pivotal moment.Past, Present, and Potential Future: Reflecting on the History of the MassToday, we will begin a discussion on the history of the Mass, tracing its development up to the present day. This is a crucial time to reflect on the past, present, and potential future of the Mass. We’ll examine what has been done, what is happening now, and what we potentially can do moving forward. Given the current decline in attendance, understanding the history of our faith and worship is vital. Our focus will be on gathering insights from this history to help guide the future of Eucharistic worship.Listen to more within this second conference---------------------------------------Note: Two Media Formats of the Same ConferenceThe conference has two video formats. The audio is the same for both. However, the video link is provided for those that wish to visually see the conference. The audio format allows the user to listen and not actually look at the device. If you select the video format, look for the full screen icon to display a larger version. Use whichever media format you desire.---------------------------------------Image:The Last Supper – The First Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Vicente Juan Masip: 1562The first image is a cropped image focusing on The Bread of
The Essence of Christian Life is the Continual Receiving of the Gift From God In today’s Gospel, Jesus gives us a parable about a friend knocking on the door in the middle of the night asking for bread.The owner of the house was already in bed. He tells the visitor to go away. Jesus tells us that if the man does not get up and give the visitor what he asks for because of their friendship, he’ll do so because the visitor is persistent in asking and in banging on the door. The Homily continues with this story.St. Paul is Harsh With His Words to the Church in GalatiaSt. Paul writes in the first reading: O you stupid Galatians! Wow! Harsh words! Why? What was St. Paul getting at? You fools. There is a real crisis in the Church at Galatia. It is a crisis of laying aside the uniqueness of what God has done. Hmm! St. Paul takes great pains to point out to the Church in Galatia to make them understand!What was happening was there was a group that came to Galatia and imposed all the rules and rituals of the Jewish people on the people of the early Church. They said, unless you do all these Jewish customs, you cannot be a good Christian or an authentic Christian!St. Paul writes in disagreement. He writes that the Church received the gifts of the Holy Spirit! How did you get that! You did not have the Law, yet you received the Spirit! You received salvation through Jesus. Moses did not offer that! Yet, the Church received it!St. Paul writes to the Church that you received a great gift from Jesus and the Holy Spirit. And, you want to set it aside for a lesser thing that never saved you in the first place! This is why St. Paul uses the strong language.The Human Heart Often Settles For Something LessSt. Paul addresses a point that impacts us today! As much as we say we want salvation, the human heart often times settles for something less. That was what St. Paul was pointing out.Hear how the Gospel and St. Paul’s Letter informs us about Christian Life and what we must do! Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Essence of Christian Life is the Continual Receiving of the Gift From God----------------------------------Image: Saint Paul the Apostle: Dutch Artist: Rembrandt: 1657----------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 11: 5-13First Reading: GAL 3: 1-5
Remembering Saint Pope John 23rd: The Good Pope on His Feast Day Saint Pope John 23rd was born in the Northern Italy town of Sotto il Monte in 1881.Upon becoming a priest in 1904, he was made the secretary to a bishop. A few years later he was appointed to go to Rome. He was appointed to be a Cardinal in 1953, and was elected Pope in 1958 at the age 76. His birth name was Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, but he chose the name John upon accepting the chair of Pope.He was known for many things, including commissioning / beginning the Vatican II Council. He was also known as The Good Pope, and was canonized alongside Saint Pope John Paul II.Upon becoming the Pope, his first statement was the Vatican must modernize the Church.Hear more on the day of Pope Saint Pope John 23rd’s Feast Day. Listen to:Remembering Saint Pope John 23rd: The Good Pope on His Feast Day---------------------------------Image:Official Photo: Pope Saint John 23rd Bishop of Rome: 1958-1963---------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 11: 15-26First Reading: GAL: 3: 7-14
St. Paul, and Jesus, Tell Us We All Have A Common Life That We Are All Called to Live. What Does That Really Mean? As St. Paul writes to the Church, he answers a question that is normally asked of Church leaders.The question? Are you saved? St. Paul gives an answer to the Church in his writing. He doesn’t answer, Yes, I am! He answers, Yes, WE are! Salvation in Jesus Christ is never merely personal or individual. Jesus doesn’t save us individually, then bring us together. Rather, He saves us together. He unites us within salvation.St. Paul continues within his writing. The world divides itself over and against one another. St. Paul will have none of that division. What we have in common, St. Paul writes, is much more important than anything that might distinguish ourselves. Why? The Homily continues to explain St. Paul’s message to the Church . . . and to us!We Have A Share in the Life of Jesus ChristSt. Paul also writes that we all have a share in the life of Jesus Christ. He writes that we all have a common life that we are all called to live . . . not separately . . . but together. Hmmm! What does that really mean?The One Place In Scripture Jesus Describes His MotherAlso in the Homily, we hear from the lips of Jesus the one place in scripture where He describes His mother!Listen to this Mediation Media. Listen to:St. Paul, and Jesus, Tell Us We All Have A Common Life That We Are All Called to Live. What Does That Really Mean?--------------------------------Image:Saint Paul Writing His Epistles: French Artist: Valentin de Boulogne: 1600s--------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 11: 27-28First Reading: GAL 3: 22-29
Jesus Tells the Man that Earthly Life Can Prevent You From Obtaining Eternal LifeIn the second reading, we hear there is a cutting sharpness of the Word of God.The Word can uncover what is in a person’s heart all along. It is in sharp contrast to the gentler words within the first reading. To fully understand today’s Gospel, it is important to understand the sharpness of the second reading! Hear more within the Homily!The Word of God can be inspiring and uplifting. The Word of God has a cutting brilliance about it that lights up even the darkest corners of the heart. If the language used in the Gospel is off-putting and frightening, it should be! Why? Because Holiness is like that! Hear more in the Homily!In the first reading we hear about values . . . about what is most important about life. More than a long life, riches and status, the author values Wisdom. Interesting! Wisdom is worth more than any earthly possession. Why would that be?Wisdom is a GiftWisdom is a gift and good that teaches us to order and use all other things. The author of the first reading provides us a context for asking ourselves what we value in our life. The Homily explains Wisdom’s importance.A Young Man Runs to JesusIn the Gospel, we hear about what the Lord wants us to do! The Gospel begins in a particular way. A young man runs to Jesus. He rushes to Him! He needs to ask a question . . . so he runs to Jesus. When he gets to the Lord, he drops to his knees. There is something urgent and vital, even spiritual, happening here. He seeks a spiritual answer, that only Jesus can answer. What must I do to inherit eternal life?Interesting, do we feel urgency about eternal life? This is a fundamental question that resides in everyone’s heart. Again, the Homily explores this topic and question.In the question is hidden the young man’s real problem. Jesus says to attend to the basic things in doing the will of God. Jesus tells him to obey the commandments. The young man tells the Lord he has performed these basics since he was little. But the young man realizes that is not enough. He knows it when he was running to the Lord, so he asks again, what must we do?Jesus Tells Us What to DoJesus tells him what to do . . . and then tells him to Follow Me (Follow the Lord). Do so and you’ll have treasure in Heaven. Hmmm! Relate the Gospel to the first reading. The young man wants eternal life . . . much like we all do! But he is disappointed when the Lord tells him what to do to obtain it. Wisdom and values . . . what is important?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells the Man that Earthly Life Can Prevent You From Obtaining Eternal Life-------------------------------Image: Christ and the Rich Young Ruler: German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1889-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 10: 17-30First Reading: WIS 7: 7-11Second Reading: HEB 4: 12-13
Eucharistic Revival Conference #1: What Is and Why Do We Need a Eucharistic Revival?So, why is there a need for the Eucharistic Revival?The Eucharist is where Worship begins and ends as a Catholic. So, why is there a need for a revival? A recent survey taken on April 12th of this year shows that people who come to weekly and / or daily Mass represents 28% of all baptized Christians.Only 20% of all Christians pray daily and consider religion very important of all baptized Christians.Less Than Half of All Christians Attend One or More Masses During the Year! Why?The survey continues to reveal interesting data. Of all Christians that come a few times a year (either once a month or so, or only on Christmas and/or Easter), this represents 45% of all baptized Christians!Less than half of all Christians go to Mass even 2 times a year. So, what are the causes of the Mass decline in attendance? The Conference entertains these ideas.Why The Decline in Mass Attendance?Despite all the reasons …. The main reason is some Christians do not believe that the Eucharist is really Jesus! Wow! This really shocked the bishops! The bishops stated they must revive what has been lost . . . the main purpose of the Mass!Jesus is Present Four Ways During MassThe Conference discusses how Jesus is present four ways during Mass. The movement and actions within the Mass are also discussed. Lastly, Conference #2’s topics are also outlined.Hear more within the first of five conferences! Listen to:Eucharistic Revival Conference #1: What Is and Why Do We Need a Eucharistic Revival?------------------------------Image:The Last Supper – The First Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Vicente Juan Masip: 1562The first image is a cropped image focusing on The Bread of Life.------------------------------Note: Some of the questions posed to the working attendees, and sometimes their responses may not always be captured on the audio. In the future, we’ll try to do a better job in capturing the audience discussion / questions.
Conference on Angels: Conf. #2: How We Are United With The Angels in Heaven!When we speak of the angels, it is important to attend to one of the most important ways where the church is most sensitive to the presence of the angels.And that is during the act of our collective divine worship, which we call the liturgy. Um, And again, this is something that the church has taught from the very beginning, recognized from the very beginning, and yet that we reflect upon far too little.And so, for example, when we celebrate Mass, what we are not doing is simply celebrating Mass on our own. Every time we gather for that holy sacrifice and holy sacrament, we are united to that great liturgy which is taking place in heaven. And so, note, while our eyes see no further than what is around us, the building which we occupy, the people who are with us, this is actually the small part of what is happening.We Unite . . .Rather, in that action, we are caught up into the grander, the greater, the enduring act of worship, which takes place in heaven. This is one of the reasons why when we take the liturgy for granted, when we celebrate it in a pedestrian way, when we just go through the motions, we cheat ourselves! Indeed, we also diminish what it is that’s happening!At Mass, our gifts are on the altar, the presence of Christ is here, and these words are spoken: lift this up by the hands of your holy angel. to your altar, not here on earth, but on high in heaven. That as we are doing something here, something is happening elsewhere!Unite With What Is Going On In Heaven!And what we do here is connected to that. It is not separate from that. It is part of that same action, mysteriously and wonderfully. And the church has long understood that. But as we celebrate that great mystery, which is the source and summit of our faith, we celebrate in union with the angels. Whether we’re conscious of it or not, that as we gather around the altar and praise and honor the presence of the Lord, the angelic host is likewise doing so.Whether we’re five for mass, 500 or 5, 000. It doesn’t matter. That is, in fact, what is happening. And so having said that, we recognize then that with good reason we have long celebrated that the angel, the angelic hosts of the Lord are organized into, not armies, but choirs. Isn’t that interesting when you stop and think about it? Hear more within the Homily!What Actually Do Angels . . .We don’t speak of the nine armies of angels. We don’t even speak of the nine classifications of angels. Indeed, we speak of the nine choirs of angels. And what is a choir? It is that organized, well ordered body, which sings the praises of God during worship. When we speak then of the choirs of the angels, we’re saying something about their very essence.It is not just that they stand before the face of God, it is not just that they serve God, it is not just that they protect us, it is not just that they are messengers. All of that is true because they belong to the choirs. The ordered praises of God sung continually and unrelentingly by the angelic hosts.This tremendous body of music, chant, and song: And so, through Christian art and the Christian imagination across the centuries, especially taking the words of the Psalms, Praise the Lord with harps, praise the Lord with flute and strings, praise the Lord with pipes and drums. If you walk into the great cathedrals of the world, what do you see?. . . Do in Heaven?Read more about it on the website and hear more within the Homily!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:How We Are United With The Angels in Heaven!------------------------------------------Image:Our Guardian Angels: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform: Generative AI Image by Queen of All Hearts
Conference on Angels: Conf. #1: The Role Of Our Guardian Angels is More Than A Protector When we hear that expression, Guardian Angels, we imagine those angels who individually have been assigned to watch over us. And that’s a half truth. Rather, when the church celebrates the guardian angels, it celebrates that, but it also celebrates the way that angels are the guardians of the people of God in a broader sense. And so, for example, for hundreds and hundreds of years as the guardian angels are celebrated, the church leads with the image of the angel.The Lord Guards and Guides His People by Means of the AngelsThe angel watches over the Hebrews as they are led out of Egypt. And note how that’s not individual guardianship, but very real guardianship. And note also what it is. It is not merely protection. When we speak of the angels as guardianship, guardians and the way the Lord guards and guides his people by means of the angels, we recognize several things.Note, the prayer emphasizes guardian, not protector. How does the guardian guide us? Before it is protection, it is guidance. Before it is defending, it is instructing. That’s why at mass today we hear that very clear Dictum on the part of the Almighty as he speaks to the people. I will put my angel to watch over you. Be careful to listen to him. Note the thrust of that, the angels guard us not simply by keeping us safe from physical danger, but by helping us to find the right path and the right way.Hear the role of Guardian Angels in our lives and how they help us!Listen to this first of two conferences. Listen to:The Role Of Our Guardian Angels is More Than A Protector-----------------------------------Image: Our Guardian Angels: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform: Generative AI Image by Queen of All Hearts What is Generative AI? Generative AI refers to a recent approach in artificial intelligence that involves the creation of AI-generated art. This innovative technique utilizes a potent AI computer to generate images based on textual prompts or instructions. The resulting output is an AI-generated image, representing one interpretation of a given concept, such as Our Guardian Angels in this particular instance. -----------------------------------Conference #2 on Angels will be made available shortly.
Receive What Jesus Gives You! Be Dependent upon the Lord! Intoday’s first reading from Proverbs we hear about something that all humans have struggled with since Adam and Eve. We hear about the Word of the Lord. We need to be content with what we have. Hmmm! Hear more within the Homily!We hear from scripture of the danger of abundance. In our wealth and abundance, I will deny the Lord! We won’t forget the Lord; we will deny the Lord! Curious prediction! The idea is when I have an abundance, I no longer need to turn to anybody, or trust anybody! Why? Because of the notion that our wealth will keep one safe! My abundance will sustain me. Rather than leaning on God and His gifts, people with abundance focus on their wealth.Curious. In the Blessing of Abundance, if we are not careful, my heart will become numb. At that moment there is no need to turn to the Lord. Hear more within the Homily!Our Relationship With GodOur relationship with God, must have us in the receiving position. We need to receive what God has for us! If we rely on ourselves because we have too much … or too little …. we have nothing.It is this disposition that we hear about the Gospel reading. The Lord gathers his disciples and will send them out. Before He does so, He gives them a gift. The disciples have authority over all diseases. He gives them authority and they must receive that specific authority.The Lord Gives the Disciples What They NeedThe Lord makes it clear! The disciples do not need anything else, beyond what (the authority) the Lord has given them. They do not need extra clothes, food, or a walking stick. They have what they need! What the Lord is really saying to His disciples . . . and to us . . . is do not be overly concerned or preoccupied with other things you think you may need. Leave them behind and focus on what the Lord has given them.Why? Because the moment we start thinking of what else we need, we move further away from what the Lord has given them! Note also what the Lord means by these actions! If the Lord sends them with a specific job and specific authority, then I (the Lord) will support you . . . I will look after you . . . I will make sure you have what you need!Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Receive What Jesus Gives You! Be Dependent upon the Lord!Calling of the Apostles: Italian Artist: Domenico Ghirlandaio: 1481Return to Meditation MediaGospel: Luke: 9: 1-6First Reading: PRV: 30: 5-9
You Are Invited to Participate In the Plan of God! St. Augustine was asked what is time?Time of planting, a time for harvesting, a time for dying, a time for birth and more. When asked what time is, St. Augustine has a thought. When someone doesn’t ask him about time, he says, he knows what time is. He continues, however, when ultimately asked what time is, his reply is I do not know.Two Types of TimeFor those over the centuries that have reflected upon time, they have identified two types of time. Chronos refers to clock time, or the passing of time minute by minute. There is a second type of time, and it refers to Time within the Bible. Chairos (sometimes spelt Kairos) is special. It means God’s time or “the right time”. Hear more within the Homily!For centuries, time was envisioned as a very big wheel with seven spokes. The wheel rotates. A way to envision this is a big circle. It starts, rotates and returns to the start point again. The Homily speaks of the significance of this image.Abraham is invited by God to leave his lands and follow the Lord to a land God will show him . . . Israel. He surrenders to God and is led by God. He lets time be directed by God.Jesus Asks His Disciples . . .In today’s Gospel, Jesus asks His disciples who do you say I am? Peters responds for all disciples . . . identifying Jesus as the Christ. He is the fulfillment of all expectations of Israel. All events across all time were directed to this fulfillment … the coming of Our Lord, His death, and His Resurrection. We are all invited to participate in the plan of God. How? The Homily informs us!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:You Are Invited to Participate In the Plan of God!----------------------------- Image:God the Father and the Holy Spirit: Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787)----------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke: 9: 18-22First Reading: ECCL: 3: 1-11
The Book of Ecclesiastes Offers Us the Meaning of Life The most important thing to know about time, is that it ends!It runs out for everyone and everything. It’s not infinite. It is measured. Time comes to an end. This is a fact of our faith. Time indeed comes to an end.Our first reading makes this point to us! When we are young, the possibilities seem endless. The reading tells us about the young man who is encouraged to feel and live life with energy. Step out into the river of time. But before you do, he is told: Think On The Lord! What an interesting statement.On one hand he is told to go and live his life. On the other hand, he is told you will not know what you are doing, until you turn to the Lord. The first reading gives us all an amazing advice on how to live our life when we are young . . . and when we are not so young. Hear more within the Homily!The Meaning of LifeFurther in the Homily, we are challenged with a question. All of the effort, all of the work, all our enjoying and all of our suffering, what good is it if it all comes to an end? What real value does anything really have if it comes to an end? The Book of Ecclesiastes offers the Meaning of Life. Hear more on this in the Homily!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Book of Ecclesiastes Offers Us the Meaning of Life.----------------------------Gospel: Luke: 9: 43-45First Reading: ECCL: 11: 9-12
St. Paul Asks the Church of Corinth: Are You Conscious of Living in Such a Way that You Know You Are Moving Toward Another World . . . the Kingdom of God in Heaven?St. Paul wrote the letter to the Church in Corinth 2000 years ago.He wrote to the people, and he may have written it to us in today’s world. While Christians do not deny Jesus’ Resurrection, we often act in a way of indifference. Many Christians take the Lord’s Resurrection for granted. The point Paul makes is important to today’s Church as well.We who believe that Christ died and has risen; we need to take the back part of the statement seriously once again. Paul targets not our belief in the resurrection, but the way the Church is living! Note what Paul says! If our hope in Jesus is simply for today, then we are a pitiful people. Why? Because we will live in a way where Jesus is merely a memory. Hear more within the Homily!What Does the Other Side of Death Look Like?We must recognize that death is not the end! If we do, it begs the question: What does the other side of death look like? Whatever it looks like, if we have access to it at all, it is only by what God has done through Jesus Christ.For St. Paul, saying Jesus died for us, is the easy part! Thousands saw Jesus die on Good Friday. Death is a fact of how we all live. If that is all we have …a knowledge that Jesus died for us … we have nothing! We have a story that ends in a grave. If our hope is in a dead man … than we have no hope.It is vital to include the second half of the statement. Christ has risen! To say that He has risen … means that He has still risen and is alive! He is active! Jesus is active not simply for today. He is active to bring this world to completion that God desired for it from the beginning. This world, and therefore, our lives are going someplace. This what the people of Corinth were missing! Hear more within the Homily!Christ’s Resurrection was for each of us! God is moving life to a place that will not pass away! The people of Corinth forgot about this. They viewed death with pain and sorrow. But they did not look at the bigger picture and what God intends for all of us! St Paul asks the Church, are you conscious of living in such a way that you know you are moving toward another world . . . the Kingdom of God in Heaven?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to what St. Paul asks the Church!Are You Conscious of Living in Such a Way that You Know You Are Moving Toward Another World . . . the Kingdom of God in Heaven?--------------------------------Image:Saint Paul Writing His Epistles: French Artist: Valentin de Boulogne: 1600s--------------------------------Gospel: Luke: 8: 1-3First Reading: 1 COR: 15: 12-20
By Saint Matthew’s Example: How Much Do I Follow Jesus? Today, the Church celebrates the Feast of St. Matthew (September 21st).We all know the Gospel story. Jesus walks over to Matthew’s table, saying nothing but Follow Me!One has to understand the profession of Matthew. He was a tax collector. How the tax collector worked in collecting money is described within the Homily. However, the Jewish people hated tax collectors. They cheated the average citizen. How? Listen to the Homily.The Calling of MatthewWe then hear that Jesus walks over to the tax collector’s table. What are the citizens thinking? Will Jesus pay a tax, like all the merchants? Will He reprimand all of the tax collectors? Simply, Jesus does neither of these things. He merely says Follow Me!Jesus Is Really Asking Matthew, and Us, to Imitate His HeartWhat Jesus is saying to Matthew is imitate Me in your heart and imitate Me in your actions. Imitate Me in who you are and then He begins to show him what He has to imitate. He goes with him to Matthew’s house. When they sit at table, He doesn’t sit with the righteous, the self-righteous, Pharisees, and the scribe. He sits with tax collectors. Jesus sits with sinners. He drinks and eats with them. This is what He is asking Matthew to imitate.For the whole world Matthew wrote his gospel in order that we may know that the promises of God have been fulfilled in Jesus and we must Follow Him. Not with our legs, but with our heart in His mercy. Not with sacrifice, but with the heart.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:By Saint Matthew’s Example: How Much Do I Follow Jesus?-------------------------------Image:The Calling of St. Matthew: Italian Painter: Giovanni Battista Caracciolo: 1625-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 23: 29-39
Jesus Tells Us …. Go In Peace, Your Sins are Forgiven Among the contribution of Pope Benedict 16th ‘s papacy was a rekindling in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.The Pope wrote several series / books on Jesus Christ. In one of the Pope’s writings, he speaks of the Gospel. He explains when many read the Gospel, they look at it as ordinary words … as the Good News of Jesus Christ. In the Roman times, the words Good News meant that the Romans were victorious in battle and would share the Good News with Rome’s king.St. Paul Defines The Term Good NewsPaul uses this term in the first reading. I bring you the Good News. For Paul, the Good News is that Jesus was nailed to The Cross, died and was Resurrected from the dead. This is the Good News for all mankind.The Resurrection of Jesus, and what it means, is why we have the Catholic Church. It is why we are Christians and worship the Lord at Mass.Why Does Paul Emphasize Our Lord’s Death in Speaking of the Resurrection?Why does Paul emphasize the Resurrection after the death of Jesus? Indeed, why focus on death when discussing the Resurrection? Why? Because Our Lord’s death was a brutal death . . . a death on The Cross.In Roman times, the cross was a symbol of power for the army … for Rome . . . for the secular world. Which means all the powers of the world have no power than that of God. The Resurrection shows us there is a more perfect world to come . . . the kingdom of God in Heaven!So, what is the lesson for us? We cannot live in this world as though this is the end. There is a resurrection and a new world to come; we will be in communion with the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.The Gospel Story of the Anointing of Jesus FeetToday’s Gospel is the story of Mary washing and anointing the feet of Jesus. Her life is perceived by the religious leader . . . she is a sinner. Jesus says she loves Him and He knows of her sins. He forgives her sins. In the Homily we hear more about this story. The Gospel today tells us God is merciful. The end of the Gospel . . . we hear the same words we hear within the sacrament of Reconciliation.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us …. Go In Peace, Your Sins are Forgiven---------------------------------Image:The Anointing of Jesus’ Feet: French Painter: James Tissot: 1900This painting resides at The Brooklyn Museum. ---------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 7: 36-50First Reading: 1 COR: 15: 1-11
Jesus Tells His Disciples and Us: If You Want to Be Great . . . Often in our discussions, we talk about the greatest.The greatest athlete in a specific sport, like soccer, basketball or football. There is even a greatest hot dog eater as per the July 4th competition!If we are honest with ourselves, we all want to be great! It is the reason we work hard. It is the reason we endure many sleepless nights to make ourselves better. There is nothing wrong with being great. However, if our obsession to be great is at the expense of others, then the obsession becomes a problem. If we do this and forget all about God, then this obsession is a problem!“If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.”Both readings and the Gospel talk about greatness. The Homily first discusses the first two readings as it relates to greatness and the lesson for us! We must be thankful and content with whatever gifts we receive from God. There will always be someone greater than us in this lifetime. Hear more within the Homily!We must be content and realize the blessings that God has given to us! And be happy for others for the gifts they have also received from God!“Whoever receives one child such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me.”In the Gospel, the theme of greatness continues. Jesus tells his disciples that He will be handed over and be killed. This is the second time He will tell the disciples. The disciples do not understand what Jesus is trying to tell them. Out of fear, the disciples do not ask! Instead, what do they do? They talk among themselves about who is the greatest!When Jesus asks them what they were discussing, the disciples were ashamed to tell Him! Jesus already knew!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells His Disciples and Us: If You Want to Be Great . . .-------------------------------Image:Christ and the Children: Mexican Painter: Juan Urruchi: late 1800s-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 9: 30-37First Reading: WIS 2: 12, 17-20Second Reading: James: 3:16 – 4:3
Pray So That You May Do the Will of God! What This Means for Us Spiritually! We are known not only by what we say . . . but what we do.In today’s Gospel, Jesus presents us with several things. Jesus is coming from the synagogue. He goes to Simon Peter’s house where He lays his healing hands on Peter’s mother-in-law. Later, many of the sick come to Jesus, and He heals them all. We are told in scripture that when we go to Jesus in total trust . . . in faith . . . Jesus grants healing.The problem Christians have is we often command what we want from Jesus. Jesus gives us the healing that we need! We need to accept the healing that He gives. That might or might not align with the healing that we want. Again, we need to accept the healing that He gives. Hear more in the Homily.Jesus Prays to Do the Will of GodJesus also gives us another lesson. Scripture tells us Jesus often withdraws to pray so that He may do the will of God. In prayer we align ourselves to the will of God. Prayer allows us to discern the will of God. It allows us to find the will of God. Prayer helps us find peace in the will of God.We pray for healing from God. We are asked also to be healers for others. How do we do that?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Pray So That You May Do the Will of God! What This Means for Us Spiritually!-----------------------------Image:Madonna at Prayer: Italian Painter: Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato : 1609-1685The painting now resides in Florence, Italy.-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 4: 38-44First Reading: 1 COR: 3: 1-9
Hail, Full of Grace! The Lord Is With You!Today the Church celebrates The Most Holy Name of Mary (September 12th). Have you ever imagined what the world would be like if we did not have names? Silly, perhaps, but an interesting image. Names brings order. Names gives us an identity. And names also carry for us a history.In another country, people are given two names when they are born. There is a name a person uses during Baptism, and a name for casual use signifying the condition when the baby was born. Hear more within the Homily.Scripture tells us about Mary. We know that wherever Mary is, Jesus is there as well. We also know that wherever Jesus is, Mary is there as well.Whenever We Honor Mary . . .Montfort, in his writings, True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary (TD #225), says We never think of Mary, without Mary thinking of God! Montfort goes on to tell us when we honor Mary, Mary joins us in honoring God. Every time we mention the name of Mary, Mary echoes back by mentioning the name of God.We hear this in the Gospel (the account of the Mystery of the Visitation) today. Mary travels in haste to see her cousin Elizabeth. The word Haste is important. When the angel appears to Mary, she is excited to share the news with her cousin Elizabeth. Why? Because Mary has discovered something within herself.The angel tells her, Hail, Full of Grace. The Lord is With You! Our Lady would like to share this news with her cousin. Hear more in this Homily given on the Most Holy Name of Mary.Listen to this Meditation. Listen to:Hail, Full of Grace! The Lord Is With You!-----------------------------Image:Our Lady: Saint Patrick’s Parish, Victor, NY-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 1: 39-47First Reading: Galatians: 4: 4-7
Christians Walk With One Step on Earth and the Other Touched by Heaven There is a marvelous oddness in the way God speaks to us today through the readings!On one hand God speaks to us in a way that stirs our heart with expectations. Even as that happens, the Lord will defeat those expectations that rise within us! It is not to disappoint us. It’s to bring us beyond our expectations!We see this dynamic from the reading of the Prophet Isaiah. We hear about one who hears the Word of the Lord, hears His voice completely, and moves with specific expectations. He moves knowing there are difficulties waiting in front of him. He doesn’t know yet what they are, but he knows they are in front of him. The one is not expecting difficulty. He knows difficulties await him!The Lord will send him somewhere. He is not expecting where the Lord sends him but knows He will. In the reading we hear he will not be put to shame regardless of what happens. He does not worry about the details. Hear more in the Homily.I Will Walk Before the Lord in the Land of the LivingIn the Psalms we hear I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living. We may have expectations when we hear or read these words. We may think it’s in the future and someplace else. Yet that is not how Christians should think!You are walking before the Lord in the land of the living . . . right now! When we enter into a Church, you are walking in the land of the living and participating in heaven within the Church right now! Heaven is not some place for later. Christians walk with one step on earth and the other touched by Heaven.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Christians Walk With One Step on Earth and the Other Touched by Heaven.-------------------------- Image:Gates of Heaven: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform: Generative AI Image by Queen of All Hearts What is Generative AI? Generative AI refers to a recent approach in artificial intelligence that involves the creation of AI-generated art. This innovative technique utilizes a potent AI computer to generate images based on textual prompts or instructions. The resulting output is an AI-generated image, representing one interpretation of a given concept, such as the Gates of Heaven in this particular instance.-------------------------- Gospel Reading: Mark: 8: 27-35First Reading: IS 50:5-9
Conference #2: The Beauty Jesus and Christianity Sees in Suffering When We Embrace the Mystery and Exaltation of the CrossAfter reciting a hymn that is at least 1400 years old about The Cross, the Homily tells us of the fate of The Cross. The Persians in conquering Rome, also conquered Jerusalem. In doing so, they carried away numerous icons. They also carried away Jesus’ Holy Cross. We also hear of its return to Jerusalem. Listen more within the Homily.We hear about the requirements The Cross has upon its bearers. The king of Jerusalem tried to carry the Cross and could not until he was properly disposed. Hear more within the Homily and its implications for us!The Cross is Glorious, Exalted, Luminous and even Radiant. Hidden within these ideas is something very important. Normally, when our bodies weaken with advance age, when illness can dimmish, humans see things differently. We see Poverty, and Victims of violence differently. All of these things break us down. The normal tendency of man is to look away from these things.Exalting the Cross Says Something DifferentExalting the Cross says something different. It is into these conditions that something glorious happens in the Mystery of the Cross. There is a hidden radiance inside the life that normal humans look away. There is value in the life of those that suffer. Hear more within this Homily.In this Mystery, one sees beauty in the suffering that comes to all of us. Not because it is suffering. But because Jesus has brought it upon Himself. When we can embrace this Mystery, it changes how we frame everything.This is important for the history of the world! One of the impacts of the Church’s spirituality of Jesus Christ is this: Prior to Jesus, there is no culture on earth that valued its sick. There is no society that finds dignity in the weak. There is no culture, prior to Christianity, that values suffering.Note what that means.Listen to this conference. Listen to:Conference #2: The Beauty Jesus and Christianity Sees in Suffering When We Embrace the Mystery and Exaltation of the Cross
Audio #3: A 30 Second Audio Outlining Montfort’s View of The CrossOf all the media sets on our website / Podcast, this is likely the shortest of them all! The words come from St. Louis de Montfort and represent an excerpt from the video Jesus Living In Mary (Montfort Productions: 1997)..In Conference #1 we hear about the words St. Louis de Montfort uses in his writings to describe the secret and Mystery of The Cross. In Conference #1, the significance of his view is discussed.Listen to this thirty second Audio of St. Louis de Montfort’s Secret and meditate on the words. We encourage you to listen .... or re-listen to Conference #1 again after meditating on these words. Play the audio several times before meditating.
The Mystery of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross! There is Only One Key to Truly Knowing Jesus! We celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (September 14th).It is important we take the word Exaltation seriously! Why? Because in today’s world, the cross appears seemingly everywhere. It appears on buildings, we begin our prayers by making the cross, we bless ourselves by means of it and we talk about carrying our crosses.Given all this, it’s amazing how impoverish our knowledge of this Mystery really is in today’s world. Many are guilty of repeating this over and over again without really thinking or meditating on the depth of this mystery.What does it really mean to communicate and pass on the faith? It starts with understanding the first word of today’s Feast Day . . . Exaltation.One exalts something that you value and appreciate. One exalts someone well, only to the extent that you know that one. This mystery is not about Jesus carrying the Cross today! It is not simply about Jesus dying on the Cross today! The issue is what is our relationship to this Mystery? How well do we see how deep and broad it is?There Is Only One Key to Truly Knowing Jesus Christ!There is only one key to truly knowing Jesus Christ! Only one! There are not many! St. Louis de Montfort would often say and write: To seek to know all things, and not know Jesus Christ, is to know nothing. To know Jesus . . . is to know enough! To seek to know Jesus, and not know this key, is not to know Jesus at all!The Cross is the key that unlocks everything! It is the secret to understanding the identity of Jesus. It is the secret to understanding scripture. It is the secret to knowing the greatest truth of our faith! Listen more within the Homily!On this Feast Day, the Church celebrates the mystery of the tree that undoes the tragedy of the earlier tree. Celebrate the Victory of Life that comes to us!Hear more within this first of two Conferences on this Feast Day. Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Mystery of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross! There is Only One Key to Truly Knowing Jesus.-------------------------------Image:Pieta and The CrossA nighttime image of the Pieta, Holy Scripture and The Cross at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Island.-------------------------------Conference #1 of 2:Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy CrossThe link to the second conference will be made available shortly.
Jesus Watches You Use Your Special Gifts to Build Up His Church: Parable of the Talents In the liturgy, we hear words of finality.Today we hear the end of St. Matthew’s Gospel during weekday Masses. During Ordinary Time throughout the year, we engage the public ministry of Our Lord. We do so in three ways. The Church begins by hearing about His public ministry by reading the Gospel of St. Mark. When this is concluded, we move to how St. Matthew presents the public ministry of Jesus. We then move from St. Matthew to St. Luke. The Church reads then Luke’s account of Jesus’ public ministry. Hear more within the Homily.In today’s Gospel, we hear of one of Jesus’ last teachings just before His Passion. It brings an end to His public ministry. This teaching is a capstone, and a reminder of what Jesus is teaching to all of us. Before His Passion, he concludes His public ministry with the parable of the talents.FinalityOur own lives have a finality too! It’s a simple fact that our lives on earth will also come to an end. At that time, we all must face an accounting of our lives. No one can escape this fact. The Lord in the Gospel is not simply giving a parable of responsibly using what one has! No, it’s a lesson that is deeper than that! The context of the lesson is Life Has Been Given. One also has been given a finite number of days. Sooner or later, the days we have on earth come to an end. When that moment arrives, there is a moment when an accounting occurs. Hear more in the Homily.A Gift from the Holy SpiritEach person is given a treasure of goodness to put to work in the world. We all have unique gifts given by God. The Holy Spirit has given each of us individually, not only a gift we can enjoy, but a gift for the building of God’s Church.How Will We Account For it? Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Watches You Use Your Special Gifts to Build Up His Church---------------------------------Images: Parable of the Talents Etching: Dutch Painter and Artist: Jan Luyken: (l: 1649-1712)---------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 25: 14-30First Reading: 1 Cor: 1: 26-31
We Must Examine Our Hearts to See What Is There that God Does Not Like! How Do We Do This? Jesus’ language is very strong within the Gospel.He talks about the inside and outside. Yesterday, we focused on cleaning the outside of the dish and cup. But the inside is important too! In today’s Gospel, Jesus describes those like whitewashed tombs. Beautiful on the outside, but on the inside filthy. Why do we often focus on the outside, avoiding the inside? Because it's easier to look good . . . then to be good. Hear more in the Homily.To be good demands a lot. We must confront ourselves and the attitude of ourselves. To clean these attitudes is not easy! How can we strive to be good? We are frequently invited to check ourselves. We must examine our hearts to see what is there that God does not like. How?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:We Must Examine Our Hearts to See What Is There that God Does Not Like! How Do We Do This?-----------------------------Image:Sacred Heart of Jesus: The Shrine of Our Lady of the Island-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 23: 27-32First Reading: 2 THES: 3: 6-10, 16-18
Jesus Tells Us About Cleanliness Before God. Implications for Our Spiritual Life Everywhere we go we are presented with rules, regulations and laws.We must follow these rules or risk getting kicked out or banned. This is true in many circumstances, including sports. There are many rules and regulations.In each of the readings (not included within this audio) and the Gospel, we hear of rules. Israel was given rules that defined Israel as God’s children. In the first reading God talks to His children through Moses. Moses teaches the people God’s statues. Moses stresses the need to follow them . . . to keep them. Do not add or subtract from these commandments. Why? Because they came from God. Hear more within the Homily.In the second reading, St. James tells us all good comes from God. Humbly allow the Word of God to penetrate into you . . . to enter your heart. As we receive the Word of God, as we receive Jesus, we must allow Him to direct our ways . . . influence our daily living.In the Gospel, the Pharisees confront Jesus because they see the disciples eat without washing hands. What is Jesus trying to teach us in the Gospel? The Pharisees believed washing hands and washing feet are part of cleanliness. It was in arrogance they approached Jesus. Yes, cleanliness is good. Washing hands is good. But there is more to cleanliness before God than the ritual of washing hands.Listen more to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us About Cleanliness Before God. Implications for Our Spiritual Life.-------------------------------------Image:The Pharisees Debating (Part of Hundred Guilder Etching): Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1647-------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 7: 1-8, 14-15, 21-23First Reading: DT: 4: 1-2, 6-8Second Reading: James: 1: 17-18, 21-22, 27
Rejoice! Jesus Knows You! Implications for Our Spiritual Journey! We humans, living within time, experience things with a beginning, a middle and an end.However, God does not work that way. With regard to salvation, the end always comes first. That may sound a little strange when we first hear it. The end is always before the beginning.When we think of life, we should know what that statement means. There are two ways of living. One is basically directionless. We drift along and feel caught up in things that move independent of us and are beyond our control. Many of us, if we are not careful, can spend many of our years on earth like this . . . directionless.Direction Implies a GoalThis is very different from a life that has direction. Because direction implies a goal. It is a life going somewhere. And because of the light of this direction and goal, I do everything else. First, I know the end, then I know how to begin and what steps to move. Hear the significance of this reflection within the Homily.The Foundation of the New JerusalemIn the first reading of the Apostle John, he tells of the new Jerusalem. We hear this new city has gates and walls. We hear about the twelve tribes of Israel. But these gates and tribes rest upon something. There is a foundation with the names of the twelve Apostles. These twelve men upon whom Jesus built His Church. Israel of old, sits upon the foundation of the Church. It does so, even though in time, the Church comes later. Hmmm. Hear more in the Homily about what this means!What the Lord does is prior to everything else, even though in time, it may have happened later. Why was David king? Because Jesus Christ will come! Why is Abraham called? Because Jesus Christ will come! Why is Israel established? Because the Lord will form a new people. The Church. The Church is not founded on Israel. Israel is founded upon the Church. It is a marvelous mystery.Jesus Knows Bartholomew Before He Meets HimThe Gospel talks about Bartholomew meeting Jesus. With the backdrop of the first reading, we hear about this meeting. It’s an odd exchange in scripture. Philip tells Bartholomew they have found the Lord, Jesus of Nazareth. Bartholomew’s response … can anything good actually come from there?Bartholomew asks Jesus, How Do You Know Me? Even before Philip called upon you … I saw you. Hear Bartholomew’s response. How can Jesus know him, if they haven’t met previously? Jesus saw Bartholomew under a fig tree, before they met.Understand the significance of that statement for our own spiritual journey. Before you were even born, Jesus saw you. Jesus looks out and sees you at Mass. He sees you before you do so, listening to this audio.Jesus knows You! What does that mean for our Spiritual Journey?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Rejoice! Jesus Knows You! Implications for Our Spiritual Journey!---------------------------------Image:The Apostle Bartholomew: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1657 Note: This image is used because late in the Homily, Jesus Tells Bartholomew He knows him before they meet. Listen more within the Meditation Media.---------------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 1: 45-51First Reading: Rv: 21: 9-14
Our Lord Outlines How to Achieve Happiness and Holiness Within Today’s Gospel The one desire which gives all humans unity and meaning, force and decision to all desires is happiness.It is the goal of all human activity, the perfect good which satisfies all human desires. The search for happiness is the common ground on which all human yearnings, all human ambitions meet. The child building sand castles at the seashore, the great banker computing his fortune, are all searching for happiness.Christians Have Two GoalsAs a Christian, we have two goals in life. The first is to be happy. The second is to be holy. Today’s Gospel gives us the means to achieve these goals: happiness and holiness.Listen to this Meditation Media to understand how to achieve these two goals.Listen to:Our Lord Outlines How to Achieve Happiness and Holiness Within Today’s Gospel.----------------------------------------Image:The Lord’s Prayer: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886-1896This painting resides at The Brooklyn Museum. Other Tissot paintings appear on this site here and here.
Jesus Tells Us: The First Will Be Last and the Last Will be First. What this Means for Our Own Spirituality!In the Homily, the priest stated he went to Philadelphia, PA for the first time.Being from Africa, and residing on Long Island, it was an opportunity to visit another state. One of the activities of sight-seeing was to take in his first live baseball game. He had watched it on TV but was not completely familiar with all the rules. He stated while not knowing all the rules, he did enjoy himself.One observation, which he enjoyed, was the enjoyment when one team or the other did something good. The crowd roared with approvement. When the other team scored, one set of fans would be joyful and loud. The other set would be disappointed, and their joy would decrease. And so, it went. One group was joyful, and the other group was sorrowful, and vice versa. t was a fun experience and a good backdrop to today's Gospel.Jesus Teaches A LessonGod’s justice is not human’s justice. God’s ways are not the ways of humans. In the Gospel we hear about the parable of the landowner. In the parable the landowner hires people for his field. Later at nine, noon, three and five PM, he goes out to the marketplace. The landowner is busy throughout the day, looking for workers. The landowner does not send other people to look for the workers. He does it.What might be missed in a quick read of this Gospel is that the landowner does not simply hire workers. He wants to establish a relationship with them. He wants to talk with them and meet them. How do we know this? Listen more to this Homily.Jesus came down from heaven as the Mystery of the Incarnation tells us in scripture. The first thing Jesus wants from us is to establish a relationship with Him. He wants us to encounter Him. After doing so, He wants us to work for Him . . . to serve Him.The landowner could have avoided the first group’s disappointment, simply by changing the order of receiving payment. But the landowner wanted to teach all a lesson.Hear what this lesson is and the impact on our Spiritual Journey. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us: The First Will Be Last and the Last Will be First. What this Means for Our Own SpiritualityIn the Homily we also hear about a Queen of All Hearts' Member: St. Pope Pius X.-------------------------Image:Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1637-------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 20: 1-16First Reading: EZ 34: 1-11
Jesus Tells Us to Be Detached from Wealth. What Does He Mean by That? Today’s Gospel follows yesterday’s Gospel when a young rich man goes to Jesus and asks what he must do to inherit eternal life.Jesus answers him plainly. Obey the commandments. The young man tells Jesus he has indeed followed the commandments. The young man continues and asks Jesus what else must he do?Jesus tells the young man, to go and sell everything he owns. Give all the money to the poor . . . and follow me! The result of Jesus’ statement to the young man was he became downcast. The young man went away sad. The young man would not part with his wealth for anything.Jesus picks up the story in today’s Gospel and says to His disciples: Children, how hard it is for a rich man to enter heaven! The disciples say . . . if things are really like that, it is impossible to enter heaven! The context of the disciples must be understood before understanding Jesus’ next statements.In the Old Testament, having riches was a blessing from God! How then is it possible to have a blessing from God, but then Jesus says it is difficult for a rich man to enter heaven? Hear more within the Homily.Jesus is not condemning wealth! He is talking about the attitude of man. Jesus says the rich have a responsibility to the poor. Unless this is remembered, then the rich will imitate the young man, and go away sad.Hear more in this Meditation Media and understand the implications for our own Spiritual Journey. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us to Be Detached from Wealth. What Does He Mean by That?-------------------------------Image:Christ and the Rich Young Ruler: German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1889-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 19: 23-30First Reading: EX 28: 1-10
Our Life Must Constantly Move Toward God in Repentance and Seeking His Mercy In the first reading we hear from scripture that exiled Israelites believe they are suffering and in exile because of the sins of their parents.They believed they are suffering because of their parents. The blame game is an old game that continues today. Others are the cause of our misery. Adam and Eve played this game as well. Hear more about the evil one and the blame game within the Homily.Despite this blame game, God tells us . . . enough. You will not be judged for other’s sins. You will be judged by the actions of your own life. We must take responsibility for our own sins . . . for our own actions.God invites us to receive His mercy. To receive mercy, we must move towards God. The first lesson from God in scripture: we must repent for our own sins. Hear about the additional lessons and what we must do in our own spiritual life within the Homily.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Our Life Must Constantly Move Toward God in Repentance and Seeking His Mercy.-------------------------------Image:Christ and the Children: Mexican Painter: Juan Urruchi: late 1800s-------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 19: 13-15First Reading: EX 18: 1-10, 13b: 30-32
Jesus Makes Known His Commandment For Us: Love One Another As I Have Love You There are two components in this commandment.As I Have Love You . . . .Love One Another. After experiencing My Love for you, go and Love One Another.When we hear this commandment, the question is not whether God loves us or even how much God loves us. We know He loves us! God’s love for us is immeasurable. But, . . . How much have we felt God’s Love?Listen to this brief Gospel and Homily on the commandment God has given to us! Listen to:Jesus Makes Known His Commandment For Us: Love One Another As I Have Love You--------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 18: 15-20First Reading: EZ 9: 1-7, 10: 18-22--------------------------------Images:Savior of the World: Italian Artist: Leonardo da Vinci: 1510 Savior of the World’s is also known as Salvator Mundi. The painting portrays Jesus dressed in Renaissance attire, with one hand raised in a gesture of blessing. In His other hand, He holds a crystal orb symbolizing the celestial sphere of heaven, representing His role as the Savior of the World.The second image is of Fr. Maximilian Kolbe in 1936. This martyr is also discussed on the day of his memorial within the Homily.
Blessing the New Altar and Understanding the Relics: Shrine of Our Lady of the Island During the Blessing of the new altar at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Island, we hear about three relics.The relics include the founder of the Company of Mary, as well as the first martyr, and the first American born saint. Three relics in total placed in the altar on the same day as its blessings during the Feast of the Assumption: August 15th, 2024.After hearing about the altar and relics, we hear the Blessings of the Altar by Bishop Robert Coyle. It is worth listening to this ceremony, since the blessing of a new altar is a rare occurrence for most Christians. The blessing is both beautiful and powerful. Listen to the blessing, and hear about the new altar, the relics and their importance in this brief audio.Listen to:Blessing the New Altar and Understanding the Relics: Shrine of Our Lady of the Island---------------------------------Images:Top picture. Explaining the relics. Second picture: Before Mass, a view of the altar facing out to the sea.
Jesus Gives Us a Command: What Is the Implication for Our Spiritual Life?“Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you.Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day.”During the Last Supper, Jesus issues a command to His disciples. That command impacts each of us when we receive the Holy Eucharist. What is the implication for us? For our spiritual life?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Gives Us a Command: What Is the Implication for Our Spiritual Life?---------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 6: 51 – 58First Reading: Prv 9: 1-6
Jesus Tells Us What We Must Do to Obtain Eternal Life In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us what we must do to obtain eternal life.“Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”For many, this Gospel is beautiful . . . as well as troubling. Within the Homily, we hear we must lose one’s life to find it. Fr. de Montfort also thought about this question. In his writings The Friends of the Cross, he reflects on these same words from scripture.St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (on this day the Church celebrates her memorial on August 9th), also writes about the Cross (The Science of the Cross). The Homily briefly reflects on both of these writings.If we choose it, we will carry our own cross in following Jesus Christ. Why? Because any pursuit of perfection requires us to renounce ourselves, by renouncing worldly things.Hear more about what Jesus tells us about the Cross. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us What We Must Do to Obtain Eternal Life.-----------------------------Image:Christ Carrying His Cross: Italian Painter: El Greco: 1580The painting resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, NY.-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 16: 24-28
Saint Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr: A Model of Self-GivingToday the Church celebrates St Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr.St. Lawrence is a model for us all! He is a model of self-giving and approaches life the way we all should!Hear the story of St. Lawrence. Listen to this Meditation Media.Listen to:Saint Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr: A Model of Self-Giving----------------------------Image:St. Lawrence Distributing the Treasures of the Church: Italian Painter: Bernardo Strozzi: Early 1600s----------------------------Note: Today’s RecordingUnfortunately, the recorder was activated later than normal. The Readings and the very beginning of the Homily were not recorded. Despite this fact, we encourage you to listen to this Homily and learn about this great saint.----------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 12: 24-26First Reading: 2 Cor 9: 6-10
Why Did Jesus Elect to Come to Us Through the Mystery of the Eucharist? Food is important for all humans. Jesus tells us in the Gospel He is the Bread of Life.Why did Jesus elect to come to us through the Eucharist?Listen to this Meditation Media: Listen to:Why Did Jesus Elect to Come to Us Through the Mystery of the Eucharist?-----------------------Image:Blessed Sacrament-----------------------Gospel Reading: John: 6: 41-51First Reading: 1 Kgs 19:4-8Second Reading: Eph 4:30—5:2
Jesus Tells Us What We Feed Will Flourish Within You In the First Reading we hear from Jeremiah lamenting for the sins of Israel. Jeremiah talks about three themes. In the Homily, we hear about these themes.God did much good for the people of Israel. But, Israel repays God with evil. Why should the good live among the evil?Parable of the Sowing of the SeedIn the Gospel today, living among the good and evil is also discussed within the parable of the seeds. Good seed is sowed into the fields. The evil one also came and sowed bad seed in the field. Jesus explains the meaning to the disciples . . . and to us.What is important is that Jesus allows the good and evil to remain together. Good people live together with people not so good. What you feed will flourish. If you feed the good in all of us, then good will flourish. If you feed the anger and other evils, they will flourish. Why? What is the lesson for us?Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Tells Us What We Feed Will Flourish Within You---------------------------Image:Parable of the Sower: Dutch Painter: Pieter Bruegel the Elder: 1557A Sower went out to sow. The painting depicts a farmer scattering seed across a field. On the left, thorny bushes threaten to overtake the grain. Nearby, rocky ground offers quick growth but little endurance. To the right, further down the hill, the seed falls on fertile soil.Across the river, a crowd gathers to hear the teachings of Jesus. The painting was inspired by a trip to the mountains the artist took just before creating this piece.---------------------------Gospel: Matthew 13: 36-43First Reading: Jer 14: 17-22
Finding Your Own Treasure and Field. A Spiritual Lesson For All of Us! In the process of Beatification and the process of Canonization there are factors for one to be called Blessed or called a Saint.One of the factors is Joy. If a Blessed or Saint candidate does not have the virtue of Joy, the candidacy is abandoned. Why? Because, within Holiness, we find Joy!Holiness and Joy are connected. That is why when we read the stories of the martyrs, we understand they have faith. But their faith shines through with Joy! Holiness is connected to Joy! When we speak of Joy, we are not talking about laughter. It is possible for people to laugh but have no Joy!Parables of the Kingdom of GodIn today’s Gospel we hear of two parables about the Kingdom of God. The first parable is the pearl within the field. The merchant goes off and buys the field in order to possess the treasure. The merchant sells all that he has, to possess the treasure.We may have heard this parable often enough and glance by it. However, the Homily explains the connection between the treasure and the field. What is the treasure that gives us Joy, peace, and contentment? It is Our Lord Jesus Christ! This is true. But what is the field? What is its connection? For all that have a special devotion, there is a spiritual lesson for all of us!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Finding Your Own Treasure and Field. A Spiritual Lesson For All of Us!-------------------------Image:Parable of the Hidden Treasure: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1860-------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 11: 25-27First Reading: Is 10: 5-7, 13b-16
The Human Life Can Reveal the Divine In today’s Gospel, Jesus is reduced . . . isn’t He the son of the carpenter?The people missed the point! Jesus wants to show us that God can be revealed in the human life. Within each one us the divine can be revealed! How?Hear how God reveals His Wisdom through us. The Human Life Can Reveal the Divine.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Human Life Can Reveal the Divine.---------------------Image:Christ and the Children: Mexican Painter: Juan Urruchi: late 1800s---------------------Gospel: Matthew 13: 54-58First Reading: Jer 26: 1-9
In the Eucharist, We Become the Body of Christ The Gospel continues with the teaching on the Bread of Life. The Eucharist is central to the Church. The Eucharist enables the Church. The Church enables the Eucharist. Without the Church, there is no Eucharist. Without the Eucharist, there is no Church.This is why the Church dedicates five consecutive weeks (Sundays) on the Bread of Life. In the First Reading God hears the cry of His people. He releases them from their bondage. Moses leads His people to take them out of Egypt. The people cried again when they reached the Red Sea. The army of Egypt were coming closer. The people thought they would die. They called out to God and He again rescued them. Moses parted the waters of the Red Sea and God saved His people.A few days into the dessert, the provisions they carried were coming to an end. The people grumbled, longing for the times they were able to eat and drink . . . when they were slaves. They forgot God so soon after God rescued them. There is a lesson for us all. Humans often prefer the oppression of slavery, rather than the freedom given to us by God.God gives them bread from heaven. In the Gospel we hear several lessons. The homily gives us several lessons about Grace from these teachings.Jesus becomes the Bread of Life. In the Eucharist, the bread is consecrated and becomes Jesus Himself. We must wake up every morning and look for. . . Jesus, the Grace of God.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:In the Eucharist, We Become the Body of Christ.-----------------------Image: Christ the Savior with the Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Juan de Juanes: 1545 – 1550This oil-based painting on wood is one of three parts. This part shows Our Lord holding the Eucharist and Chalice-----------------------Gospel: Matthew 6: 24-35First Reading: Ex 16: 2-4, 12-15
He is Here For You and Me! Divine worship is not ordinary and is important.While we gather at Church, our gathering is not the most important thing! The most important thing is Christ is our togetherness. The first reading happens in the later time in the prophet Jeremiah’s ministry. He speaks a word to the people . . . that no one wants to hear. He announces a word of warning . . . that destruction will come upon them . . . unless they change.The people and priests want to put Jeremiah to death. He doesn’t apologize for what he says. He speaks the truth that God has given him to speak. Hear more about its significance in the Homily!In the Gospel, king Herod hears about Jesus. Herod thinks Jesus must be John the Baptist. Herod killed John. He has no problem believing John was raised from the dead. While Herod has no problem believing this, his heart will not change.Our response to the Lord is important. Our response will never be perfect . . . but it must be a real one. Why is that important?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:He is Here For You and Me!-----------------------------Image:Jesus Christ: German Artist and Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1894Oil painting currently resides in The Riverside Church, New York City.-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 14: 1-12First Reading: Jer: 26:11-16, 24
Jesus Reveals the Father Only to Those He Wishes. What Are the Implications for Our Spiritual Journey? In today’s Gospel, we are reminded that God reveals Himself to the simple and humble of heart.We hear Jesus praying in the Gospel. Jesus prays to the Father and says You have revealed the secret of your mystery to the child-like. We may then ask: What is this mystery?Jesus tells us the mystery is the Father has placed everything under the care of Jesus. It is a mystery that is revealed to the humble of heart. To know God . . . we can only do through Christ Himself! How do we know this?Jesus tells us that only the Father knows the Son. And only the Son knows the Father . . . and anyone the Son wishes to reveal the Father. We cannot know God if we do not know Christ. Hear more in the Homily.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Jesus Reveals the Father Only to Those He Wishes. What Is the Implications for Our Spiritual Journey?-------------------------Image:Christ and the Child: Dutch Painter: Carl Bloch: 1873-------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 11: 25-27First Reading: Is 10: 5-7, 13b-16
Now You Live in Me and I Live in You. I Shall Raise You Up on the Last Day!The Gospel we hear today is the Bread of Life on the Feast of Corpus Christi – The Body and Blood of Christ.In the Homily, a question is asked: Why did God send Jesus into the world? While there may be several answers, the primary reason was Jesus came to bring us salvation. What actually do we mean when we say that?Sometimes we may think salvation is something … or some place. Salvation is not a thing or a place! Salvation is someone! Jesus is salvation. Jesus in His dying and rising is salvation! Jesus accepted all of the realities of humanity … even death … so that the realities of our humanity may be transformed in the resurrection. Hear more what salvation really means!The Gospel is not a piece of information! It is not even a book! The Gospel is a person, Jesus. Jesus is the gift of the Father! The Father sent His Son. The Son made a gift of Himself completely to the world.Where does the Father send His Son to you and me? Where does the Son speak His word to you? Where does the Son make His gift to you so completely that you live in Him . . . and He lives in you? Where does that happen? Hear more within the Homily.Listen more to this special Meditation Media. Listen to:Now You Live in Me and I Live in You. I Shall Raise You Up on the Last Day!On a day not too long after Fr. Fitzsimmons enters his glory, listen to this very appropriate Meditation Media.
Come to Me, All You Who Labor and are Burdened, and I Will Give you Rest. What Does That Mean? The first reading (not included within this audio) speaks of the redemptive power of God.In doing so, there is a vital and often overlooked invitation. In the Gospel we hear the Lord say . . . Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.What exactly is that labor and what is that rest? If we are not careful, we can just list all our struggles. In doing that, we fall short in catching the full point of what Jesus is telling us! We also hear that the prophet calls out to God in the voice of the people. Hear more in the Homily.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Come to Me, All You Who Labor and are Burdened, and I Will Give you Rest. What Does That Mean?-------------------------Image:Jesus Finding Rest in Bethany: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886-------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 11: 28-30First Reading: Is 26: 7-9, 12, 16-19
For the Son of Man is the Lord of the SabbathThe Gospel reading from Matthew ends with this statement. The Gospel begins articulating the situation the disciples were in as they followed Jesus. They were hungry, and pick the grains of wheat as they walked, even on the sabbath. Hunger, in general, can make us do crazy things! The Homily provides an example and further explains.In the Gospel, Jesus is walking with His disciples, and they were hungry. The disciples are experiencing hunger pains walking a few feet from the Savior of the World. They are walking next to Jesus, who fed thousands of people with just a few fish and a few pieces of bread. Jesus healed many people and did many other miracles. Yet, His disciples are going hungry!This is a lesson for all of us! As we follow Christ, everything will not be easy. Jesus does not promise us bread and butter. He is not promising comfort. He is not granting us all of the goodies in life. He does promise us the essentials . . . which is piece of mind. Hear more in the Homily.The Importance of the SabbathThe Pharisees questioned Jesus. On the sabbath, according to Jewish law, no one was to work. The sabbath was meant for a day of rest. In doing so, the Jewish people believed they were imitating God . . . who rested on the seventh day after crating the world.Curious. Why did the Jesus, the Son of God, allow His disciples to not imitate God and rest and not work on the sabbath? Jesus responds . . . the Son of man is the Lord of the sabbath.What does this really mean? What are the implications for our spiritual journey?Listen to:For the Son of Man is the Lord of the Sabbath-------------------Image: Painting: Jesus Among the Wheat Fields (cropped): Johannes Raphael Wehle: 1900-------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 12: 1-8
Understand Jesus’ Mission For You and Its Boundaries. Understand What He Desires For You!Today’s Gospel assumes you remember last week’s Gospel (don’t worry, it will be reviewed).Ordinary Times doesn’t mean unimportant times. It means time put into order. Ordered Times! The order during these times is the order of the public ministry of Jesus. This year, from the time He left the desert up to the time of the Passion, we read in order about His public ministry.Last Sunday, Jesus sent His disciples out into the world. They were ordered not to take anything other than a walking stick. He told them don’t take anything with you . . . just go! Why this odd command? Jesus did not want His disciples to be worried about their own needs and not focus on the needs of the people they are going to see. A powerful lesson for all of us is explained further in the Homily.Having healed people, the disciples return to Jesus to give Him an account of their travels and their mission. This is important, the work the Apostles were given . . . is not their work! They do not own it. It was entrusted to them by the Lord! Hear more and understand this message for our Spiritual Life!They Go to ChristWhen the Apostles come back from their mission, they do not go home to rest quietly. They go to Christ. They account for their service in Jesus’ name.People gather where the Apostles are and where Jesus resides. Jesus says come aside and rest awhile with Me. This is significant. The most ancient image of salvation . . . is rest. Rest after the work is done. The Apostles needed a rest . . . not a short nap, but a rest. Understand the difference.Rest with Me, because I am the one who can give you rest. It can’t all be service and work. There must be a time to rest in the Lord. What actually does that mean? Hear more in the Homily.The Lord and the Apostles go across the shore, and people approach them again. How many times does that happen to us? There is always another thing to do . . . and robs us of our rest. We try, but do not rest.The Apostles experience the arriving people. Jesus wants the disciples to experience this on purpose. Why? It is a lesson for the Apostles . . . and us! There is more need in this world than what you can hope to meet (satisfy). Hear more in the Homily! Understand the significance for our spiritual life.Listen to this Meditation Media.Listen to:Understand Jesus’ Mission For You and Its Boundaries. Understand What He Desires For You!------------------------Image:Christ Commanding His Disciples to Rest: French Painter: James Tissot------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 6: 30-34
Moving Beyond What We Ask Jesus For (What We Want) to Concentrate on What Jesus Wants For Us!There is a reason for everything we do. When we go to Mass, we come praying to God for (perhaps) the grace of healing, for the grace to get a job, or many other things.In today’s Gospel we hear about many people coming to Jesus for different reasons. We also hear that Jesus cured them all. There is a reason for everything. Why are the people going to Jesus?That same question can apply to us! Why do we go to Jesus? We hear about some of the reasons we may go to Him in the Homily. The reasons are not bad. They are actually good, because Jesus wants to give us what we ask.But, Jesus also invites us to move beyond what we want and concentrate on Who He Is.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to this Spiritual Lesson:Moving Beyond What We Ask Jesus For (What We Want) to Concentrate on What Jesus Wants For Us!-----------------------------Image:Sacred Heart of Jesus Statue: Shrine of Our Lady of the Island-----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 12: 14-21
The Church Will Celebrate a Year of Jubilee in 2025. What Does this Mean for Our Spiritual Life? She spent most of her wealth and still suffered.There is something familiar with that statement. The Homily continues and asks the saints in the pew . . . do you believe the Gospel that was just read about the raising of a little girl from the dead? The audience said yes. The readings are important.After believing the Gospel, the audience is then asked . . . what do we do with that belief? Christians often believe the Gospel. But, belief by itself does not get us anywhere . . . unless it is completed in some way!A Year of Hope in 2025Soon, the Church will be celebrating something special. Every twenty-five years, the Church celebrates a moment of Jubilee. . . it is a moment of grace. It is a year of rejoicing! Beginning with the coming year (2025), this special grace liturgically starts in December. It is a year of Jubilee . . . again, a moment of grace. It is not simply to be believed in . . . but, looked forward to its coming. The spiritual focus of this coming year . . . is one of hope! Find out what this all means for us, spiritually, by listening further to this Homily!Hope flows out of faith. Hope, in a real way, brings faith to completion. Sounds circular! Understand what that means! It is one thing to realize and believe that God is Good! It is another thing to look forward to the Goodness that God has for you!Faith and HopeIt’s important to understand how they are coupled. Hope that doesn’t base itself upon Faith is . . . day dreaming. Faith that does not look forward to the Goodness in which it believes . . . goes nowhere!Understand what the Year of Jubilee Means for Our Spiritual Life.Listen to:The Church Will Celebrate a Year of Jubilee in 2025. What Does this Mean for Our Spiritual Life?--------------------------------Image:Pilgrims Arriving at Rome during the Jubilee: French Painter: Claude Bonnefond: 1826--------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark: 5: 21-43First Reading: WIS: 1: 13-15; 2: 23-24
False Righteousness . . . and Jesus Will Say . . . I DO NOT Know You! He taught them as one having authority, and not like a scribe.Authority demands a response. If there is no response, there is no authority!Authority makes a claim. Something happens to the people who listen to Jesus! As He speaks, He is NOT giving them information or advice! His words make a claim on the people! The claim then, demands a choice.When the scribes or others teach the people, there does not need to make a response. Yet, when the Lord speaks, He cuts through all of that. His words demand a response! The people must say Yes … or No! Hear more in the Homily!In the Homily, we hear briefly that the readings of the last few days center upon the law. Two days ago, we hear the law was found, and the people did not know how much they sinned, because they did not know the law. But alas, we hear the people who were given the law, lost the law, found the law, read the law, then abandon the law with their unfaithfulness . . . again. People took the mercy of God for granted.The tribes in Israel come to an end. Consequences. Hear why this is important!This lurks behind the powerful Gospel reading for today! Jesus first addresses a false sense that everything is OK with the individual person . . . within me! There are many of you who will say Lord . . . Lord! But Jesus says, I do not know you! You will come before the Lord and tell of all you have done in your name! Jesus will say . . . I do not know you!False GoodnessThe person Jesus is talking about is not an evil doer, as we would envision. It is a person who surrounds themselves with false goodness. False goodness! Doing good things . . . but not for the Lord. False Goodness! False assertion that WE are OK … WE are OK. Jesus will tell them; He does not know them!Understand the impact of this lesson for our own spirituality!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:False Righteousness . . . and the Lord Will Say . . . I DO NOT Know You!--------------------------- Image:The Lord’s Prayer: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886-1896This painting resides at The Brooklyn Museum. ---------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 7: 21-29First Reading: 2 Kings 24: 8-17
The Mother of God With Three Hands Today marks the celebration of the Mother of God With Three Hands.Why three hands? First of all, it is not a mistake by the artist. The origin of the image has much to do with the readings today. Hear more within the Homily.John of Damascus was trustworthy and an excellent speaker. Around the year 700 AD, a voice rose up to rid the Church of all icons. The local government agreed with this and supported this idea. John, spoke up and wrote saying the icons are needed and necessary.Understand the importance of this icon more than 1300 years later. Understand what the significance of this icon has for our own spirituality.Hear more about what happened to Saint John of Damascus. Listen to the importance of this icon. Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Mother of God With Three Hands------------------------------Image:The Mother of God With Three Hands------------------------------ Gospel Reading: Matthew: 8: 1-4First Reading: 2 Kings 25: 1-12
Faith is Made to Be Shared In today’s reading the Church honors Saints Peter and Paul.When a child is born in Africa, they are often given two names. The first name depicts the situation into which the child was born. It is a message for future generations. The second name is often associated with the saints. Hear more within the Homily.Saint Peters and Saint Paul are the most common saint names given to boys in Africa. On the day we celebrate the vigil of Saint Peter and Paul, we hear how their virtues are the models for young boys. Christians, in general, admire these two great saints. We admire their faith, their commitment, and their total giving of themselves into the service of the Lord.We all are aware that St. Peter was a fisherman when he received his calling from the Lord to follow Him. He responded by leaving everything behind, to follow the Lord. When we read scripture, we learn that St. Peter was present during the Transfiguration. He affirmed to the Lord and to the other disciples that the Lord is the Christ.Hear more about these two saints. Hear why and how these two saints complement each other in what they did.Our Prayers Are PowerfulIn the first reading we hear that St. Peter is in prison, and the faithful are praying for him. Through the prayers of the faithful, St. Peter is ultimately released from prison. There is a lesson in scripture for us today. Prayer through the community . . . when we meet together . . . is powerful. The question may be asked, isn’t prayer powerful when I pray alone? Of course, the answer is yes.But Our Lord tells us when two or three (or more) come together to pray … there will I be. Faith is made to be shared.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Faith is Made to Be Shared----------------------------------Image:Sacred Heart of Jesus Statue: St. Patrick’s Parish: Upstate: Victor, NY----------------------------------Fr. Bernard previously gave a Homily on When God Speaks to Us Through Prayer. Listen to it by following the link on the website.----------------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 21: 15-19First Reading: Acts 3: 1-10
St. Paul’s Lessons to Us! Our Presence Is Important to the Church! The Gospel today is about Saint Thomas.The Homily begins with a proverb: One Head does not lift up the roof. In villages building houses, mud is often used to build the walls of the house. Separately, people build the roof. Of course, the people who build the roof wish to build it correctly, to avoid any leaks. After the roof is completed, and the walls are completed, the roof is raised to be placed on top of the house or hut.After the roof is in place, you can now call the structure . . . a house. But, before that, they were two separate building components, and not yet a house. When the house is completed, it is a great day for celebration. Why? Because a single person cannot place the roof on the building. There is a need for collaboration and unity. That is why there is the proverb.There is unity between the workers placing the roof on top of the building. There is unity between the roof and the house’s walls. Because of this unity, the two components can then be called a house. It is now a house for shelter and protection.St. Paul writes (in the first reading) to the Ephesians who are experiencing dis-unity. The Ephesians wondered whether there was a path for them in the Church. They wondered if their presence means anything to the Church. Paul says they are equally important to the Church. The Ephesians had strong doubts. Hear more in the Homily.Hear about the lessons for us! Our presence is important to the Church. Listen to what St. Paul tells us today!Listen to this Meditation Media. Understand:St. Paul’s Lessons to Us! Our Presence Is Important to the Church!---------------------------Image:All The City was Gathered at His Door: French Artist and Painter: James Tissot---------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 20: 24-29First Reading: EPH: 2: 19-22
Why Will People Hunger for the Word of God?Today’s first reading is from the Prophet Amos.Israel, during Amos’ time, is a land of wealth. It arrives at this wealth, in part, by demanding from the poor. Amos comes and issues a warning. He says, you need to administer justice. If you are not just, you will be punished. Amos says people are hungry for food, but the leaders are feasting. If this is not corrected, you will be poor and hungry. Stop oppressing the poor!The prophet goes on and says these leaders will not hunger for food. They will hunger for the Word of God!Why would they hunger for the Word of God? Because of some people’s ways, God was silent.Because He was silent, Amos says that people will hunger for His Word. Hear the lesson for us!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Why Will People Hunger for the Word of God?------------------------------Image: Jesus and His Disciples at the Sea of Galilee: German Painter: Carl Oesterley: 1805-1891
What is Required to Receive the Grace of God?What is required to grow in the reality of salvation? This is what the readings explore today! It’s an amazingly important set of questions, but rarely are we asked directly.The first reading from the prophet Amos is remarkable and perhaps surprising. The words God gives to us through His prophet are . . . hard words. They are words for humans to turn away from wickedness or face the destruction that wickedness always leads to in the end.God is well aware that His warnings will be ignored. As a result, the self-destructive consequence will occur. Hear more within the Homily.Listen to this Meditation Media. Hear more, by listening to:What is Required to Receive the Grace of God?--------------------------------------During the last few moments of the Homily, an announcement of a new Consecration program is starting on July 19th. The special program will be held on Fridays at the Shrine. If you have not made your Act of Total Consecration, or even if you have, if you are able to, join a community at the Shrine for this program. See the Shrine’s website / Facebook for more information. Hear more within the Homily!--------------------------------------Image:The Prophet Amos: French Illustrator and Painter: Gustave Doré: Approximately, 1865The Homily discusses Amos’ warning and how it applies to us.--------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 9: 14-17First Reading: Amos 9:11-15
Worry About How You Appear Before God Both readings feature a garment.Jesus speaks in the Gospel about an invisible garment. He speaks of a mask we put on and wear. Humans are concerned with putting on a certain outward presentation. The Lord tells His disciples, that outward presentation of piety means nothing if they do not spring from a heart that is honest. This is a difficult truth for the human heart to master . . . the Homily discusses this further.The Lord says lay those desires aside. We may be doing good, but we often look for serving our own status. We do good . . . but in the end, we are looking really to serve our own status. Lay that aside, Jesus tells us. We start by serving God when we do the good. But then we move away from serving God.Don’t be like the religious leaders and look to be publicly celebrated. Those small praises will be all you get. You will get nothing from God for the goodness. This happens even with prayer. Listen to the expansion of this in the Homily.Do not do things for the sake of appearing before men. When one worries about how you appear before men, you forget to worry about how you appear before God.Do things for the sake of God.Listen to this Meditation Media. Hear more, by listening to:Worry About How You Appear Before God-------------------------Image:The Christ Pantocrator of St. Catherine’s Monastery at Sinai: 6th Century-------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 6: 1-6, 16-18First Reading: 2 Kgs 2:1, 6-14
You Can Not Serve Two Masters. What Actually is Jesus Telling Us?After hearing about the actions we do each time we hear the Gospel read by the Deacon or Priest, the Homily focuses on today’s Gospel.Jesus looks around and sees the human heart in a specific light. Jesus says sooner or later one must commit their heart. One must decide how they are going to live.Jesus tells us that we cannot serve two masters. Let’s be blunt. Everyone serves someone else. Sometimes we serve our own ambition. Sometimes we serve our fears that control us. We are all serving someone or something. The Lord says, let’s be honest. You cannot serve two masters. The Lord again teaches us a lesson. You cannot serve God and serve a spirit of grasping after things. That spirit runs counter to the Gospel. Hear more within this Homily.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:You Can Not Serve Two Masters. What Actually is Jesus Telling Us?-----------------------Image:Christ and the Rich Man (cropped): German Painter: Johann Michael Ferdinand Heinrich Hofmann: 1899-----------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 6: 24-34
When God Speaks to Us Through Prayer In today’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us how to pray.In the Homily, we hear of students praying just before exams. Exam time may be characterized as a time to prepare for the test, and a time also to pray. However, sometimes students, as well as others, pray incorrectly. They may pray and say to God, my future depends on this exam. Whether I prepared enough or not, my future depends upon me passing.The prayer changes to be more of a command for God to do something. The Homily explains, this is not a valid way to pray. The Homily continues for someone who did not prepare as much as he should. The person asks, Why Lord? Why did you allow this to happen to me?Prayer Is A Means to Talk to God!Prayer is a means to talk to God. It enables a relationship with God. Prayer is actually a two-way communication. It is a way to speak to God. It was also a way for God to Speak to us!Listen to this Mediation Media: Listen to:When God Speaks to Us Through Prayer----------------------------Image:God the Father and the Holy Spirit : Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787)----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 6: 7-15
Let Your “Yes” Mean “Yes” and “No” Mean “No“. What is Jesus Telling Us!Let your Yes mean Yes, and your No mean No.A simple statement by Our Lord Jesus. But, as we may know, this is hard for humans. Typically, in the world, Yes may mean . . . “for now”, “maybe” or “as long as it is convenient”. We are often people of qualifications. Yes! A simple word, but it can have so many meanings. The Homily also talks further about “No”.Our living, at times is a mixture of both words. Why? We might be frightened by these absolute terms. It’s good to reflect on this in light of the first reading (not included within this audio). Hear more about this in the Homily.As we say Yes to something, we are saying No to other options. As we make a choice in a career, or make a choice in another way, we are moving away from other things. The more one exercises freedom of choice, future choices have greater depth. However, we also have a narrower range of options. As long as I have an infinite range of options, my life remains undefined.Hear in the Homily what this means for Elisha. While we may not receive a dramatic call like Elisha to leave everything behind, when we hear the Word of God, there is always a movement toward Him!Understand what all this means for us! What exactly is Jesus trying to tell us in the readings today! For Elisha, his answer was Yes. I am All Yours! He embraces where God will lead him. He embraced God and let go of other things within his life. But what does Jesus tell us? How do I say No to Sin? How do I say Yes completely?Listen to this Meditation Media: Listen to:Let Your “Yes” Mean “Yes” and “No” Mean “No“. What is Jesus Telling Us!----------------------Image:Jesus Christ: German Artist and Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1894Oil painting currently resides in The Riverside Church, New York City.----------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 5: 33-37First Reading: 1 Kgs 19:19-21
The Only Way to Receive the Blessings of God is to Follow His Words Into Them! Today the Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Anthony of Padua.Most of us are familiar with St. Anthony. We often see him depicted holding the Christ Child. But what many do not realize is where that tradition comes from! Why is he holding the Christ Child? The Homily explains why he is holding the Christ Child.The story is remarkable because we hear that sacred scripture obtains its power, because it is one place where we go to meet a person. The scripture is not a collection of statements about God. It is a collection of statements by God! When we read it well, we are engaging in conversation with another person. We engage with God!Ordinary TimeThe Church is in Ordinary time. We recently finished the Gospel Readings of St. Mark. Now, the Gospel Readings are from St. Matthew. St. Matthew’s account of Jesus’ public ministry begins with the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus gives us the new law . . . the fuller and true law. He gives this to us so we may come to know the Lord. Hear more in the Homily!The Only Way to Receive the Blessings of God . . .We also hear about the First Reading and a prophesy of rain after years of no rain. Yet, we not only hear about the story, but we hear that the Word of God is always out in front of us! We do not know the timing. It is a lesson for all of us. We often speak of following the Word of God.The only way to receive the Blessings of God is to follow His Words into them! What does that mean?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Only Way to Receive the Blessings of God is to Follow His Words Into Them!----------------------------Image:The First Will Be Last and the Last Will Be First: French Artist and Painter: James Tissot: 1886----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 5: 20-26First Reading: 1 Kgs 18:41-46
When is the Kingdom of God Coming? In today’s Gospel, Jesus talks about the Kingdom of God.When is the Kingdom Coming? That was the question a little girl recently asked the priest. The girl prefaces the question by saying her father and his father before that prayed for the coming of the Kingdom from the time each were little boys. When exactly is it coming? Jesus tells us in today’s Gospel and is further elaborated within the Homily.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:When is the Kingdom of God Coming?--------------------------Image: A Child Shall Lead Them: English Painter: William Strutt: 1896--------------------------
You Are the Salt of the World! Jesus Teaches His Disciples and Us What This Means!Today’s Gospel, from the discourse on the mountain, brings Jesus’ disciples together so He may teach them.Jesus tells His disciples that the way each of them have chosen has a demand. Jesus provides His disciples with two images. The first is salt. The second image is the image of life.Salt is very common in today’s world. We see it on our tables. We see it in the food stores. Today, it is not very expensive. Indeed, one might classify it as an inexpensive commodity. But in the ancient world, salt was very different. It was used for cooking, and also a means to preserve food. Salt, then as it does today, gives food a special taste. In the Roman days, Rome’s military was paid, at least in part, with salt.Salt was very important, in ancient times and in the days of Jesus and the Apostles. If you continue on the way you chose, your life will become more important . . . more important than you can imagine. You will become like salt is to the world!Your life will be tested. But it will be tested for God. You will preserve the presence of God in you and in the world!Hear what Jesus is teaching His disciples and Us!Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:You Are the Salt of the World! Jesus Teaches His Disciples and Us What This Means!------------------------------Image:The Lord’s Prayer: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886-1896This painting resides at The Brooklyn Museum. ------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 5: 13-16First Reading: ACTS: 11: 21-26; 13: 1-3
God Hears All Prayers by Those Who Put Their Total Trust in the Lord In today’s Gospel, we hear Jesus talk about the commandments.Jesus says, . . . But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven. In the Homily, we hear of a woman with nine children. They are now adults, but only one goes to Church and prays. The others do not. We hear that this is common in today’s world. But the woman presses on. She says she is disappointed. She is disappointed, because she prayed to keep her children in the Church.We also hear that all those who put their total trust in God . . . are never disappointed. They are never let down. We also hear about the woman who provides examples of when God answered her prayer. The woman was told to continue to trust in the Lord. God has a purpose and will answer your prayer in His time. Hear more within the Homily.Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to:God Hears All Prayers by Those Who Put Their Total Trust in the Lord ----------------------Image:Jesus..from the Painting: Sermon on the Mount: Carl Bloch (1834 -1890)----------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 5: 17-19First Reading: 1 Kgs: 18: 20-39
The Mystery of Love is Revealed Paul recognizes the Resurrection changed his life!The Resurrection changed Paul’s entire being. Paul wants all to know about Jesus, His life, His teachings and that He is God. He has been Resurrected.Paul was imprisoned for teaching about Jesus. Delivering His message and teachings lands Paul in jail. Paul wears the chains for the sake of those that have been chosen. He is imprisoned for the sake of others.The Mystery of Love is revealed in the Incarnation, in the death of Our Lord, in the Resurrection and in the preaching of Paul. At the heart of the message, is the Love of God.In the Gospel, one of the scribes comes to Jesus to ask about the greatest commandment. Jesus tells him, there are two. Both commandments center around LOVE.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:The Mystery of Love is Revealed---------------------Image:The Ascension of Christ into Glory: Italian Painter: Benvenuto Tisi – also known as Garofalo: 1510This is a cropped image. The full painting resides on the website (see link on the website post).---------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 1: 39-56First Reading: 2 Tm: 2: 8-15
Our Lady Rises on the Feast of the Visitation Mary set out to the hill country in haste.The Visitation is important to linger with the fact that it involves a rising above or upward movement. For many of us, we know of her downward movement. She comes down from Heaven at Lourdes . . . down from Heaven to Fatima. Yet, this Feast Day involves the first Marian visit going upward, ascending toward someone (St. Elizabeth).Why does Our Lady set out in such haste to the hillside? St. Luke tells us she was in a hurry to get to the hill country. With Christ in her, she rises to the hills. Why in haste? Because Jesus wants to visit the home of St. Elizabeth.The haste of Our Lady is in part, the haste of Our Lord. Why in a hurry to visit Elizabeth? The angel told Our Lady Elizabeth was already in her sixth month, because nothing is impossible for God. When the angel tells Mary of an impossibility, that she will be the Mother of God, she is also told of another impossibility. Elizabeth, old as she is, will have a child. Elizabeth’s child is a sign for Our Lady, that nothing is impossible for God. Hear the significance of this second impossibility for Our Lady. Hear more within the Homily.We don’t know all of what Our Lady said to her cousin. That is strange, because St. Luke gives us every word in the Magnificat. We only know that the sound of Our Lady’s greeting was powerful, for both St. Elizabeth, and her unborn child.Linger with that image for a while. What would the sound of a woman pregnant with God actually sound like?Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Our Lady Rises on the Feast of the Visitation. --------------------------Image:Mary and Elizabeth: Dutch Painter: Carl Bloch--------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke: 1: 39-56
Decisions Are Part of Christian Life Before beginning the Homily, two announcements were made.Two New Montfort Priests Arrive at ShrineThe first announcement: The Shrine now has three Montfort Fathers that will say Mass going forward. Fr. Bernard and Fr. Felix have joined the Shrine from Africa. In the near term, you’ll hear more about each priest.Second, The Shrine’s full name is The Shrine of Our Lady of the Island, Dedicated to Mary, Queen of All Hearts. On the first Monday of each month, an extended formation program(s) will be offered on Montfort’s Spirituality. For those that can attend, any part of the day’s conference, you are indeed invited. The only requirement is that you have already made your consecration according to St. Louis de Montfort’s approach, and you have enrolled within The Association of Mary, Queen of All Hearts. For those that do not live on Long Island, more information will be made available about these conferences shortly.Sooner or Later . . .Today’s reading places the issue of decision in front of us in a particular way. In today’s modern world in living the faith, there is a certain type of personalities than what was experienced in years past. The personality doesn’t practice any faith but is curious about all of them. Hear more in the Homily.On some levels, we see this in the Gospel reading today. The Pharisees come to Jesus as a group. They ask, under who’s authority are you teaching? The Homily also relates this question to the modern age’s tendencies.The Pharisees are threatened with Jesus’ teachings. They are threatened, because Jesus’ teaching is not always in line with the Pharisees. Where does the authority come from, asks the Pharisees.. . . We All Must Make a DecisionThe Pharisees do not really have a desire to know under what authority Jesus operates under, because they really do not want to know. Despite the actual question, they really do not want to know. They are not interested in understanding Jesus’ response. Hear more within the Homily.When we read this Gospel passage, we should recognize the human heart has this tendency. I like to have my questions answered, but I may like to make a commitment. The human heart likes to keep its options open. The Pharisees wanted to keep their options open by their response. However, sooner or later the human heart must make a decision. Sooner or later, it means nothing if we say I Love the Lord, but do not commit myself to Him.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to:Decisions Are Part of Christian Life------------------------------------Image:The Pharisees Conspire Against Jesus: French Painter: James Tissot------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew: 11: 27-33
Jesus Tells Us We Need to Be Led. Understand What Surrendering We Must Be Willing to Do, For the Love of Jesus When you were younger, you dressed yourself and went where you wanted to go. When you are older . . . someone else will dress you and lead you to where you do not want to go. These words Jesus speaks to Peter is a foretelling of Peter’s martyrdom. But they are also words to what waits for many of us at the end of our life. As we grow older, we are less capable of doing things we easily did when we were younger.For those that provide care to elderly parents, we experience a role reversal. We dress the ones that used to dress us when we were young. Hear more as to what this means for us within the Homily.It’s good to pause and contemplate this for a moment. The Lord, with these words, is not talking about aging. He is talking about a certain degree of surrender that everyone sooner or later needs to make!In the Gospel, Jesus looks at Peter. Peter is strong and dedicated, but there is something missing. There is an element of discipleship that does not focus on what we can do, but recognize things we cannot do. One cannot do everything. In fact, there is very little one can do unless the person is led.Jesus does indeed talk about aging. Not as a diminishment, but a surrender of the heart. Why? Because love involves surrender.Listen to this Meditation Media on Surrendering. Hear what Jesus does with Peter just before the Ascension.Listen to:Jesus Tells Us We Need to Be Led. Understand What Surrendering We Must Be Willing to Do, For the Love of Jesus--------------------Image:Christ and the Rich Man (cropped): German Painter: Johann Michael Ferdinand Heinrich Hofmann: 1899One of three paintings by this artist purchased by John D. Rockefeller, Jr.--------------------Gospel Reading: John: 21: 15-19
Reading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human DignityThis audio is Part 5 of 5: Moving Forward with this Teaching. See all the titles within this conference below.Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the belief that every person possesses inherent value and deserves respect, the declaration addresses key facets of human existence, including autonomy, equality, and justice.By championing these principles, Dignitas Infinita seeks to foster a world where the dignity of each person is not only recognized but actively safeguarded, ensuring that human flourishing becomes the cornerstone of societal progress and collective well-being.The doctrine is however profound and is beautifully written and published by the Catholic Church. The Company of Mary is holding a five-week conference (one media per week). The session titles discuss the document within a specific context.The titles of each conference:-1- A correct understanding on Human Dignity -2- Learning to live in a dignified way -3- Threats to Human Dignity – Part I -4- Threats to Human Dignity – Part II -5- Moving forward with this teachingJoin us by either listening to the audio or, on some media outlets, a video of the conference is presented. Select whichever media format you prefer. Understand this declaration to the fullest.Listen to this five-part conference.
Trinity Sunday: What is the Church’s Message On This Day? Human language and concepts sometimes break down or falls short in describing something.The Church celebrates the Holy Trinity. One God, but three persons. What is the Church telling us today? What is the Church telling us about ourselves on this day?Listen to this Meditation Media.
Reading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human DignityThis audio is Part IV: Threats to Human Dignity: Part 2 of 2: See all the titles within this conference below.Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the belief that every person possesses inherent value and deserves respect, the declaration addresses key facets of human existence, including autonomy, equality, and justice.By championing these principles, Dignitas Infinita seeks to foster a world where the dignity of each person is not only recognized but actively safeguarded, ensuring that human flourishing becomes the cornerstone of societal progress and collective well-being.The doctrine is however profound and is beautifully written and published by the Catholic Church. The Company of Mary is holding a five-week conference (one media per week). The session titles discuss the document within a specific context.The titles of each conference:-1- A correct understanding on Human Dignity (previously published)-2- Learning to live in a dignified way (previously published)-3- Threats to Human Dignity – Part I (previously published)-4- Threats to Human Dignity – Part II (this audio)-5- Moving forward with this teachingIf you can, join us at the Shrine of Our Lady, Dedicated to the Queen of All Hearts for each conference. Otherwise, on a weekly basis, join us by either listening to the audio or, on some media outlets, a video of the conference is presented. Select whichever media format you prefer. Understand this declaration to the fullest.Listen to this conference over the next five weeks.
Reading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity This audio is Part IIII: Threats to Human Dignity: Part 1 of 2: See all the titles within this conference below.Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the belief that every person possesses inherent value and deserves respect, the declaration addresses key facets of human existence, including autonomy, equality, and justice.By championing these principles, Dignitas Infinita seeks to foster a world where the dignity of each person is not only recognized but actively safeguarded, ensuring that human flourishing becomes the cornerstone of societal progress and collective well-being.The doctrine is however profound and is beautifully written and published by the Catholic Church. The Company of Mary is holding a five-week conference (one media per week). The session titles discuss the document within a specific context.The titles of each conference:-1- A correct understanding on Human Dignity (previously published)-2- Learning to live in a dignified way (previously published)-3- Threats to Human Dignity – Part I (this audio) -4- Threats to Human Dignity – Part II-5- Moving forward with this teachingIf you can, join us at the Shrine of Our Lady, Dedicated to the Queen of All Hearts for each conference. Otherwise, on a weekly basis, join us by either listening to the audio or, on some media outlets, a video of the conference is presented. Select whichever media format you prefer. Understand this declaration to the fullest.Listen to this conference over the next five weeks.
When Did Mary Receive Her Crown? Its Significance to Us on Mother’s Day and Always! On this day, Mother’s Day and the Seventh Sunday of Easter, we hear that Jesus sends His disciples into the world.We also hear more about Mary within the Homily. When did Mary receive her crown? We hear in the Mysteries of the Rosaries, that we honor the crowning of Mary. When did she receive it? Was it after her assumption?Scripture and the Homily tells us it was much earlier than that! On this day that we celebrate motherhood, hear what Jesus thinks of motherhood!Understand when Mary receives her crown and its significance for us!Listen to this Meditation Media:When Did Mary Receive Her Crown? Its Significance to Us on Mother’s Day and Always!-------------------------------------Image: This statue of Our Lady was acquired from Brazil some years ago and is over 100 years old.-------------------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 17: 11-19
Reading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity This audio is Part II: Learning to Live in a Dignified Way. See all the titles within this conference below.Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the belief that every person possesses inherent value and deserves respect, the declaration addresses key facets of human existence, including autonomy, equality, and justice.By championing these principles, Dignitas Infinita seeks to foster a world where the dignity of each person is not only recognized but actively safeguarded, ensuring that human flourishing becomes the cornerstone of societal progress and collective well-being.The doctrine is however profound and is beautifully written and published by the Catholic Church. The Company of Mary is holding a five-week conference (one media per week). The session titles discuss the document within a specific context.The titles of each conference:-1- A correct understanding on Human Dignity (previously published)-2- Learning to live in a dignified way (this audio) -3- Threats to Human Dignity – Part I-4- Threats to Human Dignity – Part II-5- Moving forward with this teachingIf you can, join us at the Shrine of Our Lady, Dedicated to the Queen of All Hearts for each conference. Otherwise, on a weekly basis, join us by either listening to the audio or, on some media outlets, a video of the conference is presented. Select whichever media format you prefer. Understand this declaration to the fullest.Listen to this conference over the next five weeks.
The Spirituality of St. Louis de Montfort Produces the Biography of the Saint When we speak of the lives of the saints, regularly we speak of the works of the saints, or the events within their life, or their prayers or hymns.That is fine, but in doing so, it is incomplete.In speaking about the saints, we think of the saint who produced a spirituality. For example, for Saint Louis de Montfort, we read his books and spiritual treasures. He composed these writings, and he left them to us. The implication is the life of the saint produced the spirituality. This is not un-true, but it is a half-truth.Hear more about St. Louis de Montfort on his Feast Day. Understand more about the man and the saint and his spirituality, and the implications for our Spiritual Life.-----------------------------------Image:St. Louis de Montfort statue at the Shrine of Our Lady of the IslandThe statue is a copy of the statue that appears in the Vatican, originally revealed on the day of Montfort's canonization.
Jesus Tells Us, Love Others As I Love You Now! The Homily begins as a number of children and their parents are in the pews.The Homily begins with the concept and explanation of Baptism and Sharing in the Life of Jesus. However, later in the homily, Jesus tells us something important. We all know Jesus tells us to love others . . . to love our neighbor. But Jesus also tells us to love others as Jesus loves us . . . now.What does that mean and how should it impact our Spiritual Life? Listen to this Meditation Media.Listen to:Jesus Tells Us, Love Others As I Love You Now!--------------------------Image:The Last Supper: Restored mural painting by the Italian Renaissance Artist Leonardo da Vinci, dated to c. 1495–1498.The painting represents the scene of the Last Supper of Jesus with the Twelve Apostles, as it is told in the Gospel of John.--------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 15: 9-17
Reading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity : Part I Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the belief that every person possesses inherent value and deserves respect, the declaration addresses key facets of human existence, including autonomy, equality, and justice.By championing these principles, Dignitas Infinita seeks to foster a world where the dignity of each person is not only recognized but actively safeguarded, ensuring that human flourishing becomes the cornerstone of societal progress and collective well-being.The doctrine is however profound and is beautifully written and published by the Catholic Church. The Company of Mary is holding a five-week conference (one media per week). The session titles discuss the document within a specific context.The titles of each conference:-1- A correct understanding on Human Dignity (which is this audio)Future weekly conference titles are:-2- Learning to live in a dignified way.-3- Threats to Human Dignity – Part I-4- Threats to Human Dignity – Part II-5- Moving forward with this teachingIf you can, join us at the Shrine of Our Lady, Dedicated to the Queen of All Hearts for each conference. Otherwise, on a weekly basis, join us by either listening to the audio or, on some media outlets, a video of the conference is presented. Select whichever media format you prefer. Understand this declaration to the fullest.Listen to this conference over the next five weeks.
Remain In Me, Jesus Tells Us! A Fundamental Requirement in Sharing In the Life of Jesus. In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us He is the Vine, and we are the branches.We must stay connected to Him! Jesus explains to us what that really means! We have heard this Gospel before, and many of us know it well. But Jesus goes on and exclaims, We Must Remain In Him!We cannot partially or sometimes remain in Him. We must always Remain in Him! What does that really mean? How do we do that? How do we know if we are actually remaining in Him? Why is this a Must? What happens if we fail at this?Listen to this Meditation Media.Listen to:Remain In Me, Jesus Tells Us! A Fundamental Requirement in Sharing In the Life of Jesus.--------------------------Image:Christ (cropped from a larger painting): German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1899This image was created by our digital team and renamed: The Presence of Jesus at Mass--------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 15: 1-8
Jesus’ Call to Saul: Jesus’ Plans for St. Paul: Implications for Our Spiritual Journey! In Jesus' times, there was great violence.Saul was able to persecute “Christians” based solely on a letter from the high priests. Legally, there were no other documents, other than this letter that permitted the persecution.The Lord takes advantage of this for the spreading of the Gospel. Recently, we heard the persecution of Stephen did not hinder the growth of the Church. In fact, it led to the expansion. Believers leave Jerusalem to other areas of the world to spread the Good News.Today, we hear the Church arrives in Syria (in Damascus). We hear also that one of the persecutors is moving from Jerusalem as well, toward Damascus. Rome simply allows this persecution to take place. We hear today that Saul is struck down by someone greater than his authority. Saul is struck down, blinded, and has to be led to the town. The strong one meets a stronger authority. What a powerful transition!Saul Was Chosen By GodSaul will go forth from Damascus with a different and greater authority. He will go and spread the Good News. He was chosen by God. This was God’s plan for Saul / Paul all along. Jesus IS NOT reacting to Saul persecution of early believers. It was His plan all along for Saul to witness and teach to the world. Why?The Lord takes the one who is least sympathetic. He takes one with a harden heart. He takes Saul to spread the news to the unbelievers.The Lord saw Saul from all eternity. He saw that He would meet Saul along the way. The Lord has brought Saul to this point. Saul’s self-righteousness brought him forward; the One who is truly self-righteous will bring Him forward for the good of the Gospel.Listen to:Jesus’ Call to Saul: Jesus’ Plans for St. Paul: Implications for Our Spiritual Journey!Listen to this Meditation Media.-----------------------------------Image: The Conversion of Saint Paul: Italian Artist: Caravaggio: 1600-----------------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 6: 52-59First Reading: Acts 9: 1-20
What is Jesus Telling Us on Good Shepherd Sunday? How Should that Influence Our Spiritual Life? Today’s Gospel focuses on The Good Shepherd.We have all heard this Gospel in the past. “They know my voice”. Each year the fourth Sunday of Easter is The Good Shepherd Sunday. But what is the Lord telling us? Is He just telling us that He knows us?What is Jesus Telling Us on Good Shepherd Sunday? How Should that Influence Our Spiritual Life?Listen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------------Image:The Good Shepherd: German Painter: Bernhard Plockhorst: (Lived) 1825-1907---------------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 10: 11-18
I Am the Bread of Life. What is Jesus Actually Telling Us? Impact on Our Spiritual Life! Yesterday, we heard about the martyrdom of St. Stephen, and Saul was present.Stephen placed his spirit into the hands of Christ. This had an immediate impact. Stephen says, Lord do not hold this against them. The great Deacon’s actions echo what Jesus Himself says on The Cross.Saul is emboldened by the death of Stephen. Saul, encouraged by the people putting Stephen to death, begins his immediate persecution of members of the “Catholic” Church. We hear in scripture about breaking into homes of people in the middle of the night and dragging them out! What we hear is a remarkable example of cruelty and persecution.Even as this is happening, within these events, something greater is happening! The world sees this false strength in a bold and threating way. What does the Church say? The Church tells us the blood of the martyrs are the seeds by which the Church grows! Stephen’s blood has been spilled. The persecution erupts around him. And the Church grows! Hear more within the Homily!The Bread of LifeThe Gospel scripture is St. John’s description of the Bread of Life (Chapter 6). He doesn’t just write down what Jesus says. He very carefully frames it. The Lord has fed several thousand people. Then He walks across the water. Note what the Lord demonstrates to us! As the Lord of nature, He is capable of doing several things . . . or anything He desires . . . with bread! And, as Lord, He is capable of doing anything He desires with His body! He easily walks upon water despite a great storm. He demonstrates He is capable of going beyond our sense of the reasonable and natural.People experience the feeding of the thousands. People come to Him asking Him for another sign. The Lord has already given His sign. The heart of mankind still seeks more and asks for more signs. Hear the significance and reason behind this within man’s heart!Jesus Tells Us . . .This Gospel is not unfamiliar to us. We understand Jesus is the Bread of Life. However, we encourage you to listen to this Homily to understand what St. John is trying to frame and its importance for our own Spiritual Life. Jesus tells us to not be concerned with being unworthy. That is not what Jesus focuses on. It is not what we should be focusing on . . . as true as that might be. Understand what Jesus is telling us.Listen to:I Am the Bread of Life. What is Jesus Actually Telling Us? Impact on Our Spiritual Life!Listen to this Meditation Media.-----------------------------Image:The Last Supper – The First Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Vicente Juan Masip: 1562The first image is a cropped image focusing on The Bread of Life.-----------------------------Gospel Reading: John: 6: 35-40
Why Does the Church Insist We Celebrate the Easter for an Octave? The Gospel today is the Road to Emmaus. Jesus appears to two disciples. It is important to understand today’s Gospel to comprehend how the Easter Octave works. Why does Church celebrate and keep this octave in the first place? The reason is exactly what we hear in the Gospel reading. We move forward through the octave to consider all the things that have taken place. The Church reminds us that rather than being busy to get back to ordinary time, we pause on an extended Easter Sunday. Why pause? To consider all that have taken place. Hear more within the Homily on why this is so important!The octave is a point of shared rest and shared contemplation the Church sets aside each year. The disciples move together and share “all of these things”. As they do so, the Lord appears and joins them in this process. There is an intensity of Our Lord’s presence over these days. This is true during the Apostles days and true today for us! Why! Because we (and the disciples) contemplate Our Lord’s presence considering “all of these things”.How we come to Mass during the Octave manners. If we come to Mass as we do on any Sunday during ordinary times, something is missing. Listen again to the conversation, in this light, to the Gospel story the Road to Emmaus.Listen to:Why Does the Church Insist We Celebrate the Easter for an Octave?Listen to this Meditation Media.--------------------------------Image:On the Road to Emmaus: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886This artwork currently resides within the Brooklyn Museum.--------------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 24: 13-35
The Church Moves Across The Water Feeling Alone. Lessons for Our Own Spirituality! The first reading (not included within this audio, is very instructive on how the Church moves forward.No one in the ancient times was more vulnerable than a widow. Without the support of a husband, and often with small children, a widow was vulnerable. As the Church began to grow in numbers, many of them were widows. But the Church could not tend to all of them. For a small segment of the Church, there was an opportunity for neglect or simply an oversight.The complaint is raised to the Apostles. The Greek widows are being neglected. The Apostles recognize they cannot do everything by ourselves. These men, personally called by Jesus, and govern the community, also recognize as the community grows, there is more work than they can handle. They cannot do or fix everything. They turn to the community and ask the community to solve it. The opportunity for complaining, now changes and requires the community to step forward to help fix the issue. This is the recognition of the order of Deacons.It is also the recognition of another vocation by the Apostles. The Apostles ask the community to look among themselves and choose people of high quality to assist in providing a solution. Listen more within the Homily and listen to this example of the early Church at work. Hear how God calls some of us to service within His Church.The Lord Approaches the DisciplesIn today’s Gospel we hear about the Lord walking on water. The disciples are in the boat, as night settles upon the seas. They are alone. Jesus is not physically with them. This is the image of the Church. A boat on the sea. On the sea, every boat is tiny and vulnerable. Note the image.The body of Christ is on the move to get to the other side of the sea. The only way to get to the other side is to get in the boat, which carries them forward. In scripture, water is a complicated reality. We tend to think water is always good. But that is not the case in scripture. Water can be destructive (ie; the great flood). In the Bible, the only one who is capable of controlling water, is God.The disciples do not hear the voice of Jesus. He is obviously, not in the boat. As the storms rages on, the disciples feel alone. They know they have to move forward, but they feel alone, and it is getting darker.Think about your Spiritual Life. At times, isn’t that a familiar scenario? Then, in today’s scripture, something remarkable happens. Hear more in the Homily!What lessons can we draw from today’s Gospel? Listen to:The Church Moves Across The Water Feeling Alone. Lessons for Our Own Spirituality!Listen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------Image: Jesus Walking On Water: English Painter: William Brassey Hole: 1905---------------------------Gospel Reading: John 6: 16-21First Reading: Acts: 6: 1-7
Peter Exclaims to the World, In the Name of Jesus You Are Saved! The scene in the first reading (not included within this audio) has a theme of Holy Week.The scene is about two months after Good Friday. The numbers of “Christians” have swelled to several thousand and growing. The scene includes the Jewish religious leaders, Peter and John, the temple guards and others. The leaders thought they were rid of Jesus and His followers.Peter Stands Before the Religious LeadersThe same people whom Jesus stood in front of on Good Friday are in this new scene. A remarkable scene. Peter, who on that night denied the Lord, now stands before the same religious leaders. However, he stands there with an animated spirit. The same group who judged Jesus, now judges Peter. The scene is provoked by an act of power (healing the sick and teaching with authority). Some religious leaders and their groups did not believe in the possibility of a resurrection.Announcing a resurrection will provoke the religious leaders. Hear more within the Homily.Peter, standing in front of these leaders says something. He says you are judging us because we did something good to a cripple. That is why we are here and why you are judging us! You are judging us on the manner of how we saved / healed someone. Peter was not saying the person could now walk. He was saying the person was saved, and that his healing was a sign from heaven of that fact.Peter tells the leaders that In the Name of Jesus, this man was saved.Hear more:Peter Exclaims to the World, In the Name of Jesus You Are Saved!Listen to this Meditation Media-------------------------------Image:Christ Charges Peter: Italian Painter: Raphael: 1515-------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 21: 1-14First Reading: Acts: 4: 1-12
The Apostles Were Slow to Believe the Lord Has Risen! One of the aspects of Easter we do not talk about is the topic of abundance.The Church places before us certain things that underscores how important this time really is to all Christians. The Homily explains this further.Today’s readings emphasize something. Have you ever experienced a difficult time in paying attention? If the answer is yes, todays reading become even more important. Faith is not about someone else. Faith is about our life. In today’s reading we hear about the difficulty in believing. Difficulty in having faith. Difficulty in changing one’s heart.In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear the religious leaders thought they were done with Jesus and His disciples. Now they see Peter and John healing people and teaching to the people in the name of Jesus. The leaders should have the easiest time in understanding the will of God. But they don’t! What do the leaders do next? Hear more in the Homily.Slow to BelieveIn today’s Gospel, Jesus is not happy with Peter and John. These are the same guys doing wonders in the first reading. When we go to Mass, we have a mix of people. We are not talking about race or background. We are talking about the heart. We’ll have people that attend Mass regularly and have a strong faith. Others are attending, perhaps for the first time and are not strong in their faith. That is why today’s Gospel is important.Jesus rises and appears to Mary Magdalene. She rushes to tell the Apostles. She saw the Lord. Their response? We do not believe you! Two other disciples return to the Apostles and tell them they have seen the Lord. Their response? We do not believe you! These are the guys who know Jesus the best, and they do not believe!Why were the Apostles slow to believe? Hear and understand the impact on the Apostles. Understand how this impacts our own heart and our own spiritual life!Listen to:The Apostles Were Slow to Believe the Lord Has Risen!Listen to this Meditation Media.----------------------------Image:The Resurrection: Dutch Painter: Carl Bloch: 1875----------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 16: 9-15
Jesus Chooses You on Easter Sunday and Every DayIn today’s Gospel we hear about St. John and St. Peter running to Jesus’ empty tomb.Recall, they did not yet understand what Jesus’ Resurrection meant. After arriving at the tomb, the Gospel tells us . . . they understood what had happen. Imagine turning within the tomb, and looking out at the world, completely changed. They exited from the tomb changed. The world itself changed.Peter and John are tasked with spreading the message of Jesus’ Resurrection. Now imagine you and me at the tomb. Jesus also chooses us to spread the message through our normal life. However, imagine how the Resurrection will impact their life . . . with our life . . . in delivering the message. Jesus chooses you . . . to deliver this message. Understand what that really means!Listen to:Jesus Chooses You on Easter Sunday and Every DayListen to this Meditation Media.------------------------Image: The Disciples Peter and John Running to the Sepulchre on the Morning of the Resurrection: Swiss Painter: Eugène Burnand: 1898This painting is also known by its shorten name, The Disciples. Now residing in Paris, it was not well received when it was first presented. But look at the painting again. It is truly remarkable! Look at the hands of the younger disciple in anticipation. He holds his hands together anxiously. Look at Peter’s expression. He looks both terrified and hopeful. The artist captures the emotion and the movement of the disciples. How truly wonderful and appropriate for this Meditation piece.------------------------Gospel Reading: John 20: 1-9
The Lord Freely Gives Up His Life: Understand the Implications Freedom can actually be a terrible thing!Strange to say! How freedom is used has consequences. We see this in today’s Gospel and through Holy Week. The Lord will freely lay down His life. It is a freedom to obey a will other than one’s own. We don’t often connect freedom with obedience. The Homily explores this further.Judas also freely goes and asks the religious leaders to hand over Jesus. He freely enters into a bargain to hand Him over.The Lord embraces the moment. He is aware of what will happen and who will betray Him. Not to save His own life will the Lord prevent someone’s freedom to act.The Lord gives Himself to Us and For Us.Listen to:The Lord Freely Gives Up His Life: Understand the ImplicationsListen to this Meditation Media------------------------Image:Judas Iscariot (right), retiring from the Last Supper: Danish Painter: Carl Bloch: late 1800s------------------------Gospel Reading: Matthew 26: 14-25
Understand How Our Lady of Sorrows Impacts Our Holy Week Devotion and Our Spiritual LifeThe audio opens up describing a specific image . . . Our Lady of Sorrows.The image within this post is further explained. Listen to the details behind this image and understand its importance within the Lenten Season.Weeping at the foot of The Cross is the result of a deep appreciation for everything her Son, Jesus, is undergoing. Scripture tells us Our Lady held in her heart all of these things, like a treasure. Her tears do not fall on the ground as they are caught. Our Lady holds all the events of Jesus life as a treasury. She will not let them go un-mourned. Hear more within the Homily. The sword within the image is also explained.Listen to:Understand How Our Lady of Sorrows Impacts Our Holy Week Devotion and Our Spiritual LifeListen to this special conference during the Lenten Season. Listen to this Meditation Media.------------------------Image:Our Lady of SorrowsNote: This marks the six Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. You can revisit the initial installment, titled “The Spiritual Meaning of Lent”.The second installment is entitled: Where Did the Stations of the Cross Come From? Why Are They Important? What is the Peculiar Power of this Prayer? The third conference: Atonement, Reparation and Reconciliation to the Heart of Jesus.The fourth conference: The Seven Last Words of Jesus: The Fourth Friday Lenten Season Conference.The fifth conference: The Mysteries of Holy Week.
Why Did Jesus Have to Die? Inthe first reading, God is speaking of something eternal.God makes a promise. It involves the land and involves Jerusalem, but His promise goes beyond that. God addresses Israel, but reaches beyond it . . . to all mankind. Hear more within the Homily.The promise is also encountered in our Gospel. It occurs after Jesus’ last great sign . . . the raising of Lazarus. Jesus’ Word reaches into a tomb and raises His friend from the dead. This miracle creates great worry after it happens. It was a sign that could not be ignored. It demanded a response. There was no way to remain indifferent to Jesus’ sign. The religious leaders gather together to determine what to do. He is working many great signs. If we leave Him alone, the people will believe in Him. Therefore, we must stop Him. Why are the leaders concerned? Listen more to the Homily.The signs really don’t matter to the religious leaders. The leaders decide what to do next.Why did the religious leaders think Jesus’ must die? The leaders think if Jesus dies, the people will be saved from the external threat (Romans). The leaders think we sacrifice one person, for the betterment of all of us!That actually was God’s plan. The world doesn’t sacrifice Jesus. The Lord offers Himself up. Hear more.Listen to:Why Did Jesus Have to Die?Listen to this Meditation Media.----------------------------------Image: Christ before the High Priest: Dutch Painter:Gerard van Honthorst: 1617----------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 11: 45-56
Jesus Says I Am Here Now on Palm Sunday. Then He Asks Us a Question!The Palm Sunday Gospel is of the account of the Passion.We also hear that Jesus tells us He is here now. Then He asks us a question! Our response is the only thing that matters during Holy Week . . . in fact, it is the only thing that matters within our lives. Here more within the Homily.Listen to:Jesus Says I Am Here Now on Palm Sunday. Then He Asks Us a Question!Listen to this Meditation Media------------------------------------Image:Jesus Enters the City: French Painter: James Tissot: 1896------------------------------------Gospel Reading: Mark 14: 1 – 15:47
Our Lady of Sorrows: Unite the Last Two Lines of the Hail Mary With Mary at the Foot of the Cross Thisfour minute audio was originally recorded as part of a recent Passion of Mary.This brief homily reflects on the last two lines of the Hail Mary and Our Lady of Sorrows standing at the foot of The Cross praying for Jesus and mankind.Listen to this brief, but special Meditation Media. Note: The media references the reading of the Passion of Mary. This is a separate audio and is only available for a few days during Holy Week.----------------------------------Image:Our Lady of Sorrows
It is God that Witnesses to Me, so I may Witness to Him! Impacts for Our Spiritual Life Scripture, especially during Lent, speaks to your heart and my heart.The readings are challenging today. They speak about the religious leaders’ hearts. In the first reading (not included within this media set), God is frustrated with His people even after all the things and signs He showed us. Even after seeing the Red Sea parting, the plagues, and the shaking of Mt. Sinai, the people created an image of the “god” they would worship. God became frustrated.Seeing signs is not enough. God turns to Moses. Look at what your people have done, says the Lord. What should I do with them who turned their back on Me? Moses responds. Hear more within the Homily.In the Gospel today, the Lord says . . . I haven’t come to tell you what you want to hear. I do not have to prove anything to you . . . the heart of man. It is God who authenticates Me! It is God that witnesses to Me, so I may witness to Him! I am not authenticated by any man! Wow! What a statement!Jesus tells us believe in my works and believe in me. Hear more within the Homily and understand the impacts for our spiritual life.Listen to:It is God that witnesses to Me, so I may witness to Him! Impacts for Our Spiritual LifeListen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------Image: Jesus . . . from the Painting: Sermon on the Mount: Danish Artist: Carl Bloch: 1877---------------------------Gospel Reading: John 5: 31-47
Scripture Foretells of the Events of Good FridayIn today’s Gospel we have a strong indication of Good Friday.This Sunday begins Passiontide . . . the time of The Cross. Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday, but Passiontide begins a week earlier. The readings have a strong message about The Cross.The first reading is from the third chapter of the Book of Wisdom. It is also a good reading to read at home. Why? It anticipates the events of Good Friday. The anticipation is not only of the events of Good Friday, but the workings of the heart within those who put Him to death. The world is threatened by Jesus. Understand this! This chapter is both instructive and troubling because it may surface the hidden traits of our own hearts. The Gospel provides a message as well. Hear more within the Homily.Listen to:Scripture Foretells the Events of Good FridayListen to this Meditation Media.------------------------------Image:The Crucifixion: French Painter: Simon Vouet: 1622This painting resides in the Church of Jesus, Genoa.------------------------------Gospel Reading: John 7: 1-2, 10, 25-30
The Mysteries of Holy Week: Good Friday through Easter The second conference walks through Good Friday through Easter.This conference is the fifth in a series of Leneten Conference. Listen to The Mysteries of Holy Week: The Passion through Holy Thursday before listening to this media set.
The Mysteries of Holy WeekThe Mysteries of Holy Week: Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion through Holy ThursdayNote: This audio is the fifth Friday conference within the Lenten Season. The first several media sets’ titles within this series appear below.The Mysteries of Holy Week: Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion through Holy ThursdayIn a number of the Homilies during the Lenten Season, it has been mentioned that Lent is going somewhere.It is headed toward the Holy Week. Everything that happens during Lent . . . all of the fasting, prayers and acts of charity . . . are at the service of bringing us to the Holy Days ready to celebrate them worthily and well. The prayers of the Lenten Season are at the service of a greater act of service and prayer. Hear more within the conference.The Lenten Season Prepares UsThe Lenten Season prepares us to show up prepared for the Holy Days. It is not just showing up that is the key. It is showing up for these days . . . prepared. Preparing for what? To enter fully into the Mysteries of the Holy Days.What is Passiontide? Passiontide is the last two weeks of Lent. Scripture tells us Jesus sets His face toward Jerusalem. Meaning, He is on the way to the Holy Days. What does that mean and why is it significant? Hear more within the conference.Holy Week begins during Palm Sunday. It is that day we arrive at the doorstep of Holy Week. The official name by the Church is Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion. As we move toward Holy Week, there are some changes. It begins on the fifth Sunday of Lent. Hear more within the conference.Palm Sunday is Not a Re-enactmentPalm Sunday is not a re-enactment of the events of Jesus entering into Jerusalem! Holy Week begins on Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday is not a re-enactment of the events of Jesus entering into Jerusalem. It is a participation in it! It is a participation of the movement of the Lord. Hear more within the media.Listen to this first of two conferences: The Mysteries of Holy Week: Palm Sunday through Holy Thursday. Hear about the last week of Jesus’ public life and public ministry.The first conference takes us through Holy Thursday. The second conference picks up from Good Friday. Listen to both conferences.------------------------------------Image: Triumphal entry: German Painter and Graphic Artist: Bernhard Plockhorst: (1825 – 1907)--------------------------Note: This marks the fifth Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. You can revisit the initial installment, titled “The Spiritual Meaning of Lent".The second installment is entitled: Where Did the Stations of the Cross Come From? Why Are They Important? What is the Peculiar Power of this Prayer? The third conference: Atonement, Reparation and Reconciliation to the Heart of Jesus.The fourth conference: The Seven Last Words of Jesus: The Fourth Friday Lenten Season Conference.
Healing by Christ of the Man by the Pool is a Foretelling of Our Spiritual Life. It is an Important Lesson During the Lenten Season Today’s Gospel is well known to many Christians.John tells us about the healing by Christ of the man by the pool. The Church selects this scripture as a reminder that we are all cleaned and healed in the pool of water at our Baptism. Baptism can only be done once, and it is permanent. However, it has little value if we do not do something.Hear what the Church teaches us on this day and during the Lenten Season.Listen to this Meditation Media.--------------------------Image:Christ Heals the Man by the Pool: Spanish Painter: Bartolomé Estebán Murillo: 1670Gospel Reading: John 5: 1-16
The Lord Tells Us Do Not Fall Into the Trap of Doing the Details and Thinking Your Spiritual Life Must Be Alright: The Lord Explains What We Must Do Scripture’s focus on Mass this last week has been our relationship with the Word of God.It focuses on the need to receive it and respond to it.Today’s scripture continues this focus. The Lord Himself tells us the human heart, for many, goes through the motions without faith. The Lord says He desires mercy, not sacrifices. The Lord is not saying sacrifices are bad. He is saying that sacrifices alone are often shallow. It is often an expression of piety that goes nowhere.People may go through the motions and offer sacrifices at the proper time. I do things when I am supposed to do them. There is a way of just showing up that is empty. The Lord and the Homily tells us more.We must be careful we do not fall into a trap. We must not think, if I get all the details right, that I must be all right.Listen to:The Lord Tells Us Do Not Fall into the Trap of Doing the Details and Thinking Your Spiritual Life Must Be Alright: The Lord Explains What We Must Do Listen to this Meditation Media.------------------------Image:The Lord’s Prayer: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886-1896------------------------Gospel Reading: Luke 18: 9-14
Look UP in Faithfulness to See the Lord. The Gift of Hope Jesus says in the Gospel, the Son of Man will be lifted up.Jesus references in the Gospel Moses in the dessert. When the Israelites were unfaithful, and worshipped serpents, snakes came and bit the people. Many people died. When the people called out to God, He commanded Moses to create a bronze serpent and place it on a pole. He told Moses to raise it high, so the people can see it. People saw the power of God and those that looked, did not die from the snakes. The people remembered the reason why this happened. It was their unfaithfulness.Out of their affliction came the sign of their healing. All they had to do is be faithful and look up. Hear more within the Homily.The Lord says He must be lifted up so He can be a sign. The wounded people, filled with regret, can look up and see the Lord, and look to Him in their affliction. The Lord must be lifted up to find Me. This will give the people hope. Understand this within the Homily.Near the end of the Homily, we hear that 2025 has been designated a year of Hope – a Holy Year. Additionally, 2024 has been designated as a year of prayer. Hear more about these two years and the significance within the Homily.Listen to:Look UP in Faithfulness to See the Lord. The Gift of HopeListen to this Meditation Media.-----------------------------------Image:Crucified Christ with Donors: Italian Artist: Ugolino di Nerio: 1317-1327 This painting is one of the earliest known paintings of Jesus on The Cross. This painting is nearly 700 years old.Gospel Reading: John 3: 14-21
The Seven Last Words of Jesus: The Fourth Friday Lenten Season ConferenceNote: This audio is the fourth Friday conference within the Lenten Season. The first several media titles appear below.The Seven Last Words of Jesus: The Fourth Friday Lenten Season Conference When we say the seven last words, we mean the seven last statements of Jesus on The Cross.On Mount Sinai, the Lord gave to Moses ten words. Now, there on another hill, seven more words are given. God made Moses a meditator to receive the words. On Good Friday, God’s Son gives the world seven more words.The parallelism continues. On Mount Sinai there was rolling thunder and shaking of the earth. On Good Friday, a similar thing happens. The site as we know is Calvary, the place of the new covenant. The Homily tells us more.As Jesus is on The Cross, Jesus addresses His people. The audio describes the Lord on The Cross to set the scene and to help form a mental image.These words were not given to the entire world. They were shared and heard by only a few people. The seven words should be looked at together to understand their significance.Listen to:The Seven Last Words of Jesus.Understand how these words should impact our Spiritual Life. Listen to this Friday Conference During Lenten Season. Listen to this Meditation Media.Note: See the Seven Last Words below and a list as to which Gospel they may be found.---------------------------------------Image: Christ Crucified: Spanish Painter: Diego Velázquez: 1632Note: This marks the fourth Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. The other conferences are entitled: -1- “The Spiritual Meaning of Lent,” -2- Where Did the Stations of the Cross Come From? Why Are They Important? What is the Peculiar Power of this Prayer? -3- Atonement, Reparation and Reconciliation to the Heart of JesusJesus’ Last Words and Gospel#1: Father, forgive them. They know not what they do.: St. Luke#2: Amen, I say to you. This day you will be with me in Paradise. : St. Luke#3: Women, behold your son…behold your Mother: St. John#4: My God! My God! Why have You forsaken Me? : St. Mark and St. Matthew#5: I Thirst! : St. John#6: It is finished. : St. John#7: Father, into Your hands I commend my Spirit. : St. Luke
The Lord Gives Us a Way for Eternal Life In the first reading (not included within this media set), we hear the prophet say:“More tortuous than all is the Human Heart. Who can understand it?”We likely agree with the statement, but it is often something we do not like to admit. We often fool ourselves into thinking we really know ourselves. We believe we know how the world works. Reality says something different. From the experience of the divine toward man, nothing is more tortuous than all is the Human Heart.Cursed is that one who trust in men. That is how scripture starts. Cursed is the one who places his confidence in the flesh. Note how absolute that statement is!Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord! Trust is not easy! Because it is not easy, we often reach for easy things. Why? Because we often fear to trust more greatly . . . more deeply. Hear more within the Homily.The Lord gives us a way to live life. Understand the implications for our Spiritual Life.Hear how this topic resonates with the Gospel reading.Listen to:The Lord Gives Us a Way for Eternal LifeListen to this Meditation Media.--------------------------------------Image:Jesus . . . from the Painting: Sermon on the Mount: Danish Artist: Carl Bloch: 1877
Jesus Tells Us About The Stewardship of Your Life: One of Jesus’ Last Parables to the Pharisees Jesus tells the chief priests a parable during Holy Week.In a few days Jesus will be on The Cross. He knows what is to come and He knows exactly who He is speaking to on this day.We hear of the parable of the vineyard. It’s important to understand this parable because of what will happen in a few days to Jesus. Hear more within the Homily.Jesus looks to the chief priests. He, in effect, is telling the priests they do not have a right to their position. It is a gift. The Homily explains the difference and how it relates to the parable.Listen to:Jesus Tells Us About The Stewardship of Your Life: One of Jesus’ Last Parables to the PhariseesListen to this Meditation Media.--------------------------------------------Image: The Pharisees Conspire Against Jesus: French Painter: James Tissot
Atonement, Reparation and Reconciliation to the Heart of Jesus Every so often we hear or read a statement that most Christians do not believe that Jesus is really present in the Blessed Sacrament.This statement is not new to our times! This belief and issue go back hundreds of years.Go back to the year 1673, in the convent of the Visitation Sisters, a religious community that is founded precisely to visit the Blessed Sacrament. Founded to spend time in adoration and appreciation for the sacramental presence of the Lord. Christ appeared to a young sister . . . Margaret Mary.Hear more on what Jesus expects from all of us in:Atonement, Reparation and Reconciliation to the Heart of JesusListen to this third installment of this season’s Lenten Friday Conferences.Note: During the conference we hear the Montfort Spirituality Atonement Prayer to the Heart of Jesus. The prayer is in excess of three hundred years old.-----------------------------------Image:Jesus Appearing to Margaret MaryNote: This marks the third Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. You can revisit the initial installment, titled “The Spiritual Meaning of Lent,” (see web post for the link).The second installment is entitled: Where Did the Stations of the Cross Come From? Why Are They Important? What is the Peculiar Power of this Prayer? (see web post for the link).
Jesus Became Angry Intoday’s Gospel we hear that Jesus becomes angry!We may recall the scripture – Jesus and the Merchants / Money Changers in the Temple. Jesus became angry! What is the takeaway for our Spiritual Life?Listen to:Jesus Became AngryListen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------------------Image: The Merchants Chased from the Temple: French Painter: James Tissot: 1886
The Prodigal Son Parable: Both Sons Mis-Used Their Inheritance! Today’s Gospel reading is the Prodigal Son Story.We all know it, and therefore, we may miss the opportunity to really hear it again. Each of the parables in scripture are not only for the people of Jesus’ times, but for us as well! Jesus talks to us through scripture. What is He saying to us?We hear the younger son misused his inheritance. Are you aware the older son misused his inheritance as well? Which son are we? What are the implications for our own spiritual life?Listen to:The Prodigal Son Parable: Both Sons Mis-Used Their Inheritance!Listen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------------Image:The Return of the Prodigal Son: Dutch Artist and Painter: Rembrandt: 1661
St. Louis de Montfort’s Hymns on the Sorrowful Passion A quick note about the hour.In the Christian Tradition, Jesus breathes His last on The Cross at 3 PM on Good Friday. That is the ninth hour of the day. 3PM is often reflected upon. What many Christians do not reflect upon as often are the other hours.When scripture speaks of the Passion of the Lord, and its events, they are spoken about in a liturgical way. The Lord is led forth at the 3rd hour (9:00 AM), nailed to The Cross at the 6th hour (noon) and dies at the ninth hour (3PM). These are all the traditional hours of prayer. The Church prays at these hours as Jesus completes our prayer with His self-giving. Listen more to the Homily.St. Louis’ Hymns on the Events of the PassionPraying the Stations of the Cross is a Lenten devotion. This audio does not pray the stations as one is normally accustomed to praying. However, the media engages the stations.One of the treasures St. Louis de Montfort left the Church are a collection of Hymns. Among these hymns is a mediation in song of the events of the Passion. One for every day of the week. With an eighth hymn dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows at the foot of The Cross.The hymns will be read in excerpts. If you have the Hymns book, which we encourage each Queen of All Hearts members to obtain, they are Hymns #67 through #74. Hear more in the Conference.Listen to:St. Louis de Montfort’s Hymns on the Sorrowful PassionListen to this Meditation Media.--------------------------------------Image: Behold the Man: Ecce Homo: Hungarian Painter: Mihály Munkácsy: 1896
Where Did the Stations of the Cross Come From? Why Are They Important? What is the Peculiar Power of this Prayer?Note: This audio does not contain the actual praying of the stations. The audio addresses the origin questions appearing within the title, plus more. If you wish to pray the Stations, a link within the post provides an example.During the Lenten Season, many participate in the devotion and the praying of The Stations or The Way of The Cross.While we see the stations . . . either outside on the grounds or within the parish, we often pray before them. However, we often spend little time reflecting on what they are in the first place. Where did the Stations come from? Why are they important? What is the peculiar power of this prayer?It seems a good time during this Lenten Season, when we often pray the stations, to take some formation time on the stations themselves.Some global issues first: St. Louis de Montfort tells us the single greatest means of quickening our hearts with love for the Lord, is to contemplate lovingly all that He suffered for us! The more we focus on His Passion, the more we deepen our love for the Lord. Yes, we will have regret for our sins that causes His Passion in the first place! Yes, we should feel that in our hearts. But the overall object is to kindle our love for the Lord! Note the thrust of that, as the Homily exclaims!The contemplation begins with the realization that the Passion . . . this has been done . . . for me! Hear more within the Homily.Listen to:Where Did the Stations of the Cross Come From? Why Are They Important? What is the Peculiar Power of this Prayer?Listen to this Meditation Media---------------------------------------------------Image:Christ Crucified: Spanish Painter: Diego Velázquez: 1632Return to Meditation Media Note: This marks the second Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. You can revisit the initial installment, titled “The Spiritual Meaning of Lent,” (see link within the post).
Jesus Gives the Roadmap to Heaven in Today’s Gospel. Implications for Our Spiritual Life!I thought Jesus was supposed to be nice.That was the response one teenager had in reading today’s scripture in which Jesus tells us, unless you do something . . . unless you change . . . you will find yourself in the fires of hell. Jesus says unless. When He says that, we know there is a consequence. Hear more within the Homily.The Kingdom of Heaven is open to everyone. While it is open for all, not everyone gets to go in. That should give all of us pause! Why? Because many think, if they are relatively good, they will go to heaven. Simply put, many take salvation for granted . . . as if they are almost entitled to it. That is not what Jesus tells us in today’s Gospel.Unless your holiness goes beyond the Pharisees, you are not getting into heaven. This conditionality is a challenge to us. Who were the Pharisees? Publicly, they were the role models of the time! They knew scripture. They seemed to be getting everything all right. They were serious about their religion.. . . Implications for Our Spiritual Life!The Lord says, unless you do better than those guys, you are not getting in! What actually does He mean by that?Have you ever experienced the feeling when looking around in Church, during Mass, that everyone is getting it right? Other people know all the words to the prayers, and perhaps I may not? There may be a tendency to say I am not good enough and I simply do not measure up!The Lord says . . . that is the WRONG standard. Knowing the prayers is not a bad thing. But it is the WRONG measure. They are external mastery of details. There is a temptation sometimes instead of being obedient to the Lord, we are compliant. There may even be a tendency to have a false goodness! What’s the difference and how do we recognize that? Hear more within the Homily.Listen to:Jesus Gives the Roadmap to Heaven in Today’s Gospel. Implications for our Spiritual Life!Listen to this Meditation Media.-----------------------------------------------Image: Gates of Heaven: Artificial Intelligence (AI) Platform: Generative AI Image by Queen of All HeartsWhat is Generative AI? Generative AI refers to a recent approach in artificial intelligence that involves the creation of AI-generated art. This innovative technique utilizes a potent AI computer to generate images based on textual prompts or instructions. The resulting output is an AI-generated image, representing one interpretation of a given concept, such as the Gates of Heaven in this particular instance.
God Gave You Life For a Reason! Understand the Reasons Why God Made You! Understand the Implications for Our Spiritual Life!Fr. Hugh Gillespie, SMMGod Gave You Life For a Reason! Understand the Reasons Why God Made You! . . . The scripture readings put forth the question about our standard of living.We are not use to speaking about faith . . . in terms of a standard! The Lord puts a standard in front of us today.In the first reading (audio not included within this media), the Lord speaks to the people through Moses. It’s been forty years in the desert. They are at the doorstep of the promise land. The Lord has given the people the law for a reason! I set you free from Egypt for a reason! We don’t always pause and think about the reasons God does things for us!. . . Understand the Implications for Our Spiritual Life!The Lord does not give the Israelites the law so that the people can pick and choose how to live! He did not just rescue the people from slavery for the fun of it. There is a reason! It reminds us that we come into this world for a reason! Hear more within the Homily.We should pause with that! Why did God make you! Why do you have life in the first place! You were given life for a reason! Understand the reason! Listen to this Meditation Media.--------------------------------------Image: God the Father and the Holy Spirit: Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787)
What is a Contrite Heart? Implications for Us During this Lenten Season! In the act of confessing, we often recite the Act of Contrition, but what exactly does it mean to possess a contrite heart?While we associate it with feelings of remorse and regret, it goes beyond merely having a sorry or regretful heart. So, what precisely is a contrite heart?In today’s first reading (not included within this media), scripture tells us of Jonah’s reluctant preaching to the people of Nineveh—a city notorious for its dominance in the Middle East and its unsafe reputation for travelers due to its wickedness. Despite Jonah’s initial reluctance, he warns the people that Nineveh has 40 days to change, setting a time frame for transformation.Forty Days to RepentIn a humorous twist, despite Jonah’s unwillingness and the people’s initial resistance to his message, the city responds. The king, upon hearing the prophecy, issues a decree for all—people, cows, and lambs—to repent, requiring everyone to don sackcloth. This response goes beyond a mere obligation; it reflects a profound, heartrending transformation. As we explore this scripture, let’s not overlook the subtle humor embedded within it.Contrition, at its core, signifies brokenness. A contrite heart is one that is both open and humble, broken in its vulnerability. Understand the profound implications of this during the Lenten Season through the insights shared in this Meditation Media.---------------------------------------------------Image: The Repentance of Nineveh: English Artist, Engraver and Illustrator: John Martin: 1829
The Spiritual Meaning of LentThere is a definite structure to Lent.It is not merely a calendar structure. It is a spiritual structure! The more we can appreciate this fact, the more we can enter into the fullness of this holy season.Lent means many things to Christians. We use words to describe this season, like fasting and penance. Lent is associated with certain devotions, including the Stations of the Cross. All of this is good and helpful!However, sometimes we wonder how this all fits together! What is the relationship to the Ashes on Ash Wednesday to the Stations of the Cross? What is the relationship between ashes and fasting? How does fasting connect us to the Stations of the Cross?What we want to do is back up a little bit and look at the Lenten Season as a whole. Sometimes Christians get caught up in the details that we miss the overall framework in which they are set that gives them meaning.Lent is forty days, hence the song. But that is true and not true at once. If you take out the Sundays, there is forty days of Lent. But we refer to these Sundays as Sundays of Lent. Therefore, the Lenten Season has actually more than forty days. Informative, but what is its significance?Lent contains multiple periods. It begins with the introductory period, then the longer period determined by the Sundays. The introductory period begins on Ash Wednesday and includes the next three days. Then the Lenten Season shifts as we celebrate the first Sunday. Hear more within the Homily and why understanding these periods are important to us!The beginning of Lent is connected to the end of the Lenten Season . . . Easter Sunday. We must not ever forget that! Hear more as to what that really means.Lent exists to prepare us for the celebration of Easter! How spiritually does it do that?Listen to this special Meditation Media given as a conference on the first Friday of Lent.Listen to:The Spiritual Meaning of Lent-------------------------------------------------Image:The Taking of Christ: Italian Painter: Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio.: 1602 Each Friday, a special Mediation . . . a special conference will be held throughout the Lenten Season. Look also for the next meditation installment.
Lenten Season Lesson: Charity and Prayer are Not Optional, but ObligatoryWe all are sinners. This is obvious, but it is possible on any given day for us to forget that.We might focus on the sinfulness of the world. We focus on the failures of others. We may also focus on the ways we have been wronged.We are sinners, but at times that thought can become distant. This theme runs through the Lenten Season. The Lord tells the people in scripture that the issue is not that you don’t go to Church (temple). It’s not that you aren’t sacrificing. But you are allowing things to blind reality.The Lord says you come to give sacrifices to the temple but walk by your brother in need and do nothing. Any one of these things aren’t bad. What is bad is that we do not allow the very best of things to penetrate us. The first four days of Lent is a special period.If you want to follow Jesus, deny yourself, and pick up your cross. Hear the insights within the Homily.Charity and prayer are not optional, but obligatory.You cannot have a relationship with the Lord, without caring for His people. Understand what this means during this Lenten Season and its implications for us!------------------------------------------------------Image: Christ in Gethsemane: German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1886
Why Did Jesus Go Out into the Desert for Forty Days?Why is the Lenten Season 40 days? What does that mean for us?Listen to this Meditation Media.
Today’s Gospel Conveys a Powerful Message: The Opportunity for the Anointment of the Sick is Open to Everyone Seriously Sick! The Gospel narrative shares the healing of Simon Peter’s mother-in-law by Jesus, a reminder echoed by the Church.The Anointment of the Sick is accessible to all who seek it—a sacrament granted upon request. This sacrament is intended for those facing serious illnesses or individuals about to undergo prolonged anesthesia.For those residing in proximity to the Shrine, scheduling an appointment is as simple as making a call. Visitors to the Shrine can conveniently drop by the office, while those elsewhere are encouraged to reach out to their parish offices for guidance.Listen to this Homily and the multiple messages within this Gospel. Hear more about:The Opportunity for the Anointment of the Sick is Open to Everyone Seriously Sick!Understand the significance of this anointment. Listen to this Meditation Media. Embrace the spiritual insights and avail yourself of this sacrament.--------------------------------------------------Image:Simon Peter’s Mother-in-law Healing: French Painter: James Tissot This painting is depicted differently than other painters. In this scene, the artist has the mother-in-law attempting to meet and greet the Lord as He enters Simon’s house. She collapses in her effort. Jesus helps the woman up to her feet.
The Apostles Are Summoned by Jesus to Rest: Relevance for Our Spiritual JourneyUpon learning about Solomon’s requested gift from the Lord in the initial reading, the Homily explores its connection with the Gospel.The Gospel conveys a subtle yet significant lesson applicable to all, and we must be attentive not to overlook it. Following the Apostles’ return from their efforts in healing and ministering to the people, exhaustion sets in. In response, Jesus takes them aside to find respite.Upon reaching a secluded place for rest, they encounter a sizable crowd eagerly awaiting their presence. Jesus instructs the Apostles on their next course of action. This narrative holds a valuable lesson for our lives—grasping the essence of the Gospel. Take heed of the message:“The Apostles Are Summoned by Jesus to Rest: Relevance for Our Spiritual Journey.”Tune in to this Meditation Media for a deeper understanding.-----------------------------------------------------------Image: Jesus and His Disciples at the Sea of Galilee: German Painter: Carl Oesterley: 1805-1891
St. Paul Tells Us: The Church is the Mystery of the Body of Christ. We are Members of His Body. What Does That Mean for Our Own Spirituality? Go out into the whole world.The first reading tells us of Saul going out in the world to capture Jews believing in Jesus. He is very aggressive in his work. He hunts down people belonging to this new way. We see Heaven send a warning to the heart of one who is trying to root out error.Curiously, we see Saul who is so concerned to protect the faith of Israel. However, he misses the point! It is the God who Saul follows Who ends up correcting him. Saul went out in the world on this mission. Much like the Apostles went out in the world on their mission. But their missions were indeed different. Hear more within the Homily!On this day, we celebrate the conversion of Saul. Saul forever changes on this day. He is struck down. The light overwhelms Saul. Struck down by light. Saul does not feel a blow. He is struck down be a light that is so beautiful, he cannot stand. He is overwhelmed. Saul becomes blind. Out of the light comes The Voice of the Lord. Saul tries to serve the Lord before this encounter. Yet, he does not recognize Him . . . he does not recognize the Lord.A heart, so faithful to the Lord, needs to learn the sound of the Lord’s voice. Hear more about this lesson for us!I Am Jesus, Whom you persecute. Understand what happens! Jesus identifies Himself with His Church. Note! Saul is not out to chain Jesus! He is out to persecute His followers . . . the Church! Why is that important? Hear more in the Homily!St. Paul teaches us a lesson! In persecuting the Church, you persecute and reject Jesus. As intensive as Saul’s relationship with Jesus is, it is not merely private. We must understand that for our own spirituality. Listen to more within the media.St. Paul Tells Us: The Church is the Mystery of the Body of Christ. We are Members of His Body. What Does That Mean for Our Own Spirituality?Listen to more in this Meditation Media.-----------------------------------------------Image: The Conversion of Saint Paul: Italian Artist: Caravaggio: 1600
The Lord Forgives David. But, He Holds David Accountable for the Wrong that he has Done. Hear the Lessons for Us!In the first reading (not included within this audio) the prophet comes before King David.David has sinned greatly but acts as nothing wrong has happened. The public is unaware; the world is unaware; and David is resting securely in his home. He is content with both what he has . . . and what has happened. The prophet approaches David.He says to David, I need your help with this. The prophet creates a story about a poor man, a lamb and a wealthy neighbor. David becomes angered about the injustice within the story to the poor man. David’s heart is so out raged.The implication of the story, the prophet tells us, is really about David. David committed murder. David committed other sins. David’s heart may be like our own. Our hearts are against injustice, and that may be real. But often these injustices are less evil than the injustice we harbor within ourselves.It is easy to be outraged of the wrong of another, then it is looking at ourselves. Hear what the prophet does next to David in confronting the king with the reality of his guilt.David admits his guilt of sin. David does something we all must do. The prophet tells David the Lord has forgiven you. But, . . . it doesn’t mean that God doesn’t pretend that this did not happen!The Lord will not hold the sin against David. But, He will hold David accountable for the wrong that he has done.Hear the lessons for us! Listen to this Meditation Media.----------------------------------------------Image: King David: Italian Artist: Massimo Stanzione: 1642
He Spoke With Authority: What Does That Mean for People of Jesus’ Time and For Us Today?If today, you hear His voice… harden not your hearts.Every day for the last thousand years (at least), the Church begins prayer with this message. The Homily tells us more.In today’s reading (not included within this audio), we hear the people cannot bear to hear the word of God directly. The people turn to Moses. In today’s Gospel we hear there are some that cannot bear to hear the Words from Our Lord.He speaks with authority.What does that really mean for us in our own spiritual life? Listen to this Meditation Media.-----------------------------------------------Image: Jesus Unrolls the Book In Synagogue: French Painter: James Tissot: 1894
Serving the Lord, Not In My Way, But the Way the Lord Wants: Implications for Us! In the first reading (not included within this media) Samuel anointed Saul as king.A few days later we hear about how he was rejected and replaced. How quickly the mighty can fall. In between those points in scripture, we hear what it means to serve the Lord.Saul was rejected, not because he was incompetent. He was rejected . . . because he was disobedient. The Lord gave Saul victory under the command to get rid of everything. The Homily goes into further details.The Lord said one thing. Man, in this case Saul, says he will be obedient to God his way . . . and was therefore, not fully obedient. Israel says I will serve you . . . in the way I chose. That is unacceptable to the Lord.The Lord says to Samuel . . . it is time to select a new king. This person will be after MY own Heart, says the Lord.However imperfect this new king will be . . . he has the Heart of the Lord. David’s heart serves the Lord.Hear the implications for us!---------------------------------------------------------Image: King David – the King of Israel: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst: 1622King David playing the harp.
A Change in Our Hearts is the Difference Between Being Friends With the Lord or Distancing Us From Him In today’s reading (audio not included), as well as in the Gospel, there is significant activity among the people.The reading depicts the king and his soldiers, with townspeople emerging to welcome and celebrate their victory. Meanwhile, the Gospel narrates encounters with people, particularly the sick, who approach Our Lord. From surrounding nations, a multitude flocks to Jesus, not only to rejoice but also in desperate need.Crowds don’t just come to listen to Jesus; they come seeking healing, revealing the profound sense of neediness in the world. This overwhelming demand is elaborated upon in the Homily.When the Lord requests a boat to address the crowd without being overwhelmed, it highlights the unique capacity of Our Lord to handle the multitude’s needs. Unlike any other man, He can manage the immense numbers seeking help.Even malevolent spirits acknowledge the goodness of Jesus, identifying Him as the Son of Man. Jesus commands them to be silent, reflecting the recognition of goodness as a threat by evil forces. The significance of this dynamic in our contemporary context is explored further.The first king of the Jews, Saul, not David, is mentioned in the initial reading. Both readings, along with the Gospel, delve into the nature of the human heart.Listen to:A Change in Our Hearts is the Difference Between Being Friends With the Lord or Distancing Us From HimListen to this Meditation Media---------------------------------------------Image: Saul and David: Dutch Painter: Rembrandt: 1651
Jesus’ Relatives Think He Is Out Of His Mind! His relatives think He is out of His mind.Wow, that is a shocking sentence from scripture! Shocking, yet beautiful! Hidden within the scripture, we see that His family members recognize something that we all too often forget!After two thousand years, and after hearing the Gospel proclaimed many times, we can take Jesus for granted. We often miss something, despite the wonderous things the Lord has done for each of us.Wonderous, puzzling and strange the greatness of Christ really is! We often reduce Jesus to someone like us, but better. Yet, despite Jesus being like us, He is also divine. Therefore, He is fundamentally different from us too!Why does Jesus’ family say that He is out of His mind? Because of what Jesus is doing, and the consequences of what He does!Listen to this Homily. Ponder and Meditate on its message.--------------------------------------------------Image:Our Lady Says Goodbye to Jesus: Polish Painter: Piotr Stachiewicz: (l.) 1858-1938
Jesus Is Present to Us: Understand How This Occurs Sunday of the Word of God: What is That?Each time the Mass is held, Jesus is present to us! Yes, during the Holy Sacrament, but that is only one of four times Jesus is present to us during Mass. Hear and understand how He is present to us and how that might influence your attentiveness at Mass.Listen to:Jesus Is Present to Us: Understand How This OccursListen to this Meditation Media-----------------------------------------------Image: New Altar Dressings at the Shrine of Our Lady of the Island, Dedicated to Mary, Queen of All Hearts
The Three Kings, the Magi, Provide Us an Example for Our Own Spirituality On the Feast of the Magi, there is a great celebration.We all know the song of the three kings. We know the story, about the kings moving across deserts following a star. There are two groups that heaven provides a sign foretelling the birth of Jesus (the other being the shepherds notified by the angels).The three kings are non-Jews. They are compelled to move. They must see Our Lord and travel a great distance. But the movement does not first begin with the kings. It begins with Our Lord.There is a great lesson for us and our own spirituality in this Gospel reading. The kings move and bring gifts to the Lord. Hear what the story implies for us and our Spirituality. Two thousand years ago wise men found Jesus with Mary. Today, wise women and wise men will still find Jesus with Mary!Listen to:The Three Kings, the Magi, Provide Us an Example for Our Own SpiritualityListen to this Meditation Media.Note: On this Feast Day the Church has two traditions. The first is to sing the upcoming Feast Days (dates) of the Year. The second you will briefly hear about immediately following the Gospel and before the Homily.----------------------------------------------------------Image:The Adoration of the Magi: Italian Painter: Giovanni di Paolo: 1450
Genealogy of Jesus: What Impact Does It Have On Our Spirituality?In today’s Gospel, we hear the genealogy of Jesus.It starts with Jesus, Son of God and is traced all the way back to Adam, son of God. Over 70 generations. So why does the Church think it is important that we hear the genealogy of Jesus? This is not just a list of names. It is so much more. Understand the impact of the genealogy to our own spirituality.Listen to this Mediation Media.-------------------------------------------------------------Image: St. Joseph and Jesus: Spanish Painter: Bartolomé Esteban Perez Murillo: 1670This is a portion of the painter’s The Holy Family and Dog painting.
The First Christian Martyr: Saint StevenFr. Hugh Gillespie, SMMThe First Christian Martyr: Saint Steven The Church has twinned the celebration of St. Steven, the first martyr with the birth of Jesus.On Christmas day we celebrate the savior coming into the world as He brings us salvation. The very next day we celebrate that salvation with the first martyr into Glory. It’s a remarkable combination. It is also a reminder. The Homily explains this further.The Lord comes not to bring us a superficial joy or peace. He brings a peace which upends violence. He brings a happiness that is not of this world.Steven shows us something very important. As he gives witness to Christ, we hear the words from the Gospel. The light shines over the darkness. The people of this world did not recognize the Lord. In fact, they rejected Him. This is true for His followers as Steven bear’s witness. The Spirit of Christianity is opposed by the spirit of the world.Steven is a great example of this fact. He is stoned because of the clarity of his witness. When the world could not overcome him, they eliminate him. The Homily explores this further. Listen tothe Greatness of Saint Steven, the First Christian Martyr.Listen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------------------------------------Image: Stoning of Saint Stephen: Italian Painters: Jacopo & Domenico TintorettoThe altarpiece of San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice. As St. Steven looks up, he asks for the forgiveness of those who persecute him. He utters the same words as Christ utters on The Cross: Father, into your hands I commend my spirit. As he looks up, he sees the Lord at the right hand of the Father. An amazing painting.
Feast of the Holy Family: What Does God Think of Your Family? Today the Church celebrates the family: with the Feast of the Holy Family.Hear how God comes into this world AND WHAT He thinks of the family.What does God think of your family?Listen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------------------------Image:The Holy Family: Italian Painter: Raphel: 1581
In the Fullness of Time: Solemnity of Mary, Mother of GodThe Church tells us to take the time allowing Christmas and the greatness and the joy of the Mystery to penetrate us.That is why the day is so great it spans eight days. Greatness, Blessings and Joy is worth hanging onto.On Christmas Day, the shepherds tell us of great things and the message from the angels. Our Lady holds onto this in her heart.In the fullness of time, God sent his Son born of a woman. What does the fullness of time mean? It implies there was something lacking. Hear what St. Paul tells us. Hear what fullness of time really means and its significance. Understand how it must impact our Spiritual Life. Understand the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. Listen to:In the Fullness of Time: Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.Listen to this Meditation Media.------------------------------------------------------Image: Madonna and Sleeping Child: Italian Painter:Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato (1609–1685)
On This Christmas Day, God Exceeds the World’s Expectations! In ages past, God spoke to the world through prophets.With the Lord’s birth, the Word is given to us directly through Jesus! To us, God no longer speaks through the prophets, because He speaks to us through His Son.God exceeds the world’s expectations. God is pleased to make a home in a stable, in our poverty, in our need. It is in our need where He will come to meet us. That is remarkable! Listen to the Homily to hear more.I am as near to you . . . in your need. In times past the prophet does not know what we know. He came into our world and our lives as one who first gave us life. God made us. He made our being. He draws even closer . . . to save us.The joy that the God who made the world . . . enters into this world. The entire world is changed by what we celebrate today. The one who made the world and everything in it . . . has entered the world! Why did He enter it? To be with you! To be with all of us!Rejoice . . . and hold on to this Joy!Hear more and what this means for you this Christmas. Listen to On this Christmas Day, God Exceeds the World’s Expectations! Listen to this Meditation Media.----------------------------------------------------------Image: Altar Manger at Our Lady of the Island
David is Rejected by the Lord . . . and Its Implications for Us this Christmas SeasonWhile we listen to the annunciation scene; we hear the words from heaven.The words are directed to Our Lady, and they are also directed to us today. It’s a wonderous mystery. To better understand it, the Church gives us a cluster of readings today.The first reading (not included within this audio) is about David. David, a one-time shepherd boy, is now king and prosperous. Peace resides in the kingdom. He lives in a palace. He is thankful and grateful to our Lord. However, he recognizes while he lives in a grand palace, the Lord . . . and the Arc of the Covenant . . . resides in a tent. David believes this is no longer right. He wants to build a house for the Lord.The Lord, however, says it is He who defeated David’s enemies. You cannot build a proper house. The Lord will build the proper house.Yet the two were not talking about the same thing. The term house has different contexts. What does David’s House have to do with the Annunciation and the Christmas Season? What are the implications for us?Listen to David is Rejected by the Lord . . . and Its Implications for Us this Christmas Season. Listen to this Meditation Media. -------------------------------------------------------The image is titled: King David – the King of Israel: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst: 1622. King David playing the harp.
Rejoice on Gaudete Sunday: How Does the Church Change on the Third Sunday of Advent? What is the Implication for Us?On the third Sunday of Advent, a notable transformation takes place during the Mass.The rose color, a unique hue used on only two specific days, makes its appearance, and the third Sunday of Advent is one of those occasions. This alteration is not merely superficial; it extends to the vestments, prayers, altar arrangement, and the selection of music and songs for the day.The significance of these changes lies in the celebration of a substantial event. The images accompanying this post showcase a vestment style reminiscent of the 1960s—a Roman style, deviating from the usual vestments in different colors. It signifies a momentous celebration.In times past, this period was not labeled Advent but referred to as the December Fast. During this era, daily fasting was observed, not restricted to Fridays. The Church had an alternate name, which is further discussed in the Homily.. . . How Does the Church Change on the Third Sunday of Advent? What is the Implication for Us?The Third Sunday of Advent, occurring this year on December 17th, serves as a pivotal juncture in the Advent season. Annually on this date, irrespective of the day of the week, the Church shifts its focus in the Advent readings. Until December 17th, the readings centered on the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. From the 17th until Christmas Eve, attention shifts to the anticipation and details of His First Coming. Further insights can be gained by listening to the Homily.The importance of the rose color and the Church’s rejoicing on this day raise pertinent questions. Why does the Church celebrate with joy? How should this day shape our preparations for Christmas? Delve into these reflections through this Meditation Media and Rejoice on Gaudete Sunday: How Does the Church Change on the Third Sunday of Advent? What Are the Implications for Us?
Jesus Tells Us: Everyone Who Listens to My Words, And Acts Upon Them . . .Typically, when we celebrate a Feast of a saint, we celebrate on their Glory Day . . . the date they are born again into eternal life.St. Ambrose is an exception to that typical practice. On December 7th, this saint was Baptized, Confirmed, made his first communion, Ordained and was made a Bishop of Milan! Wow! That was a busy day!It is his date of consecration as a Bishop that is used to mark his memorial. Hear more about Saint Ambrose and how he was elevated to Bishop! Listen to why he is a saint and doctor of the Church.In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells His disciples something remarkable. Listen to Everyone Who Listens to My Words, and Acts Upon Them . . . Listen to today’s Meditation Media.
St. John’s and Isaiah’s Words and AdventOn this second Sunday of Advent there are a remarkable set of readings.The first reading (not included within this audio) is from the Book of Isaiah. The author of the reading is unknown, since it was written about two hundred years after Isaiah. But it was written in the spirit of other parts of the Book. When it was first read, it caused a shocking outburst.Isaiah proclaimed, because of the disobedience of the people, the kingdom will come crashing down. And so, it was. The Temple came crashing down, the kingdom destroyed, and its people sent into exile. Some two hundred years later, a person in the same spirit of Isaiah, spoke to a crowd feeling the consequences of Isaiah’s prophecy.Spoken to an exiled group of people who had little to no hope, the Book of Isaiah’s words says . . . Give comfort to My people. Hear more in the Homily as to the significance of this statement.Make Straight the Path of the LordSt. John the Baptist proclaims . . . Make straight the path of the Lord . . . these words have a double meaning. Make straight the pathways of your heart . . . toward the Lord. It also meant Make straight . . . your way back home. Hear more within the Homily.St. John announces the Coming of the Lord. Hear what St. John's and Isaiah's words have to do with Advent. Understand why we honor St. John and his words during every Mass. Listen to St. John’s and Isaiah’s Words and Advent. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
Imagine What Heaven Sees When Suddenly a Pure Heart Appears on Earth: Feast of the Immaculate Conception ExplainedThere is something about beauty that catches our attention.There is also something about a light in a dimly lit area that catches our attention. To understand the mystery before us today . . . the Immaculate Conception . . . we do well to recall these common experiences.Hear a wonderful and personal story about an encounter with Our Lady during a trip to France by several members of The Association of Mary, Queen of All Hearts. As the description unfolds, image yourself also in attendance before Our Lady.Heaven Views Our LadyImagine the view of our world from heaven. The view shows all the chosen, that would be all of us, among a partial beauty found within the world. However, the view also shows a world saddled with darkness, disorder and sin. A world originally made for beauty, but because of mankind’s sin, falls short.Imagine also, as if out of nowhere, suddenly the view changes. Suddenly there is a bright and perfect heart. No guilt. Stainless. Pure. No wickedness. Simply pure goodness. Suddenly shining brightly in a dim world. Imagine looking upon the world to suddenly see the coming of that one.Imagine What Heaven Sees When Suddenly a Pure Heart Appears on Earth. Listen to what we celebrate on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Listen to this Meditation Media.-------- The Image: The Immaculate ConceptionA venerated Marian image of the Immaculate Conception, Pontifically crowned by the decree of Pope Pius X in 1905. Pope Pius X was not only a saint, a pope, but was deeply impacted by St. Louis de Montfort’s Spirituality. He is also a member of The Association of Mary, Queen of All Hearts.
Understand What The Book of Daniel Tells Us About Our TimesIn the first reading (not included within this audio) the Book of Daniel offers us a remarkable series of visions. It is a series of visions, not just one. The style is called apocalyptic. The word does not mean the destruction and end of the world. That is what movies and popular culture presents. The word literally means revelation. It means reveal. It why the last book in the bible is called the Book of Revelations. Hear more within the Homily.The reading describes strange beasts and a culminating moment of the arrival of One like the Son of Man. It points ahead to make sense of history and where it is going. Just like the readings earlier in the week with the king and dreams of creatures made of various materials. We hear about the waters stirred up with creatures rising from the waters. Waters is an ancient symbol of chaos and destruction. In the modern day, water represents a positive term. Not in ancient times and not in the times of the Bible. Hear more in the Homily.. . . Tells Us About Our TimesA series of creatures materialize. A leopard, the bear, and lion with wings and destructive capabilities. The creatures themselves represent nations. The lion is Babylon. The leopard is the Persians. The beasts walked like men, but there is no humanity within them. Why? Nations are a collection of powers. But they do not represent what it is to be human. Hear more within the Homily.The issue is not racism or cultural criticism. The issue is things that are ordered in worldly terms, even when they are done by men and women, often serve to reduce human dignity. Hear more within the Homily.One nation overturn another. Suddenly out of the chaos something even more horrifying emerges. This beast destroys everything in front of it. It even destroys parts of itself. This odd emergence is so violent it cannot be overcome.The Book of Daniel references the times of Babylon, and also references our times.Understand What The Book of Daniel Tells Us About Our Times.Listen to this Meditation Media.
As We Prepare for Advent, We Hear the Term in the Fullness of Time, God Sent His Son. What Does That Mean and Why Is It Important for Us?First Saturday celebration this December also marks the end of the liturgical year.Advent begins at sundown. Advent tends to take Catholics by surprise. As Catholics prepare for Lent, they have a plan as to what sacrifice they want to do. Advent falls normally right after Thanksgiving, or the week after, and it catches many Catholics by surprise. What are we to do for Advent? Hear more in the Homily.Advent also requires a game plan; we need to be prepared. It’s not about what are the things we are going to do! What is the perspective of the heart and soul out of which we will be doing things for Advent. The readings help understand this more clearly.In the Fullness of Time, God Sent His SonWhat does fullness of time really mean? Why is that important to us now? Hear more within this Meditation Media.
The Feast of the Presentation of MaryThe Presentation of Our Lady is celebrated by the Church.The presentation in the life of Our Lady is not found in sacred scripture. The event was recounted in a very old document that is known as the prequel to the Gospel. It is the same source that we have the names of Mary’s parents. Hear more about the importance of this book within the Church’s teachings within the Homily.This feast was not initially a very big celebration in the origin of the Catholic Church. However, it was a significant feast day among the Eastern Churches. After the second Vatican Council when the revised liturgical calendar was made, this feast day was addressed. One of the reasons it was added to the calendar was a gesture of communion with the Eastern Church brothers.There is a significance to this Feast Day. The first is a question of calendar. Usually, the Sunday after this Feast is the Feast of Christ the King. That is a celebration near the end of the liturgical year, where we celebrate Jesus enthroned in His Glory Who will come to judge the living and the dead.The presentation feast is in contrast. It celebrates Mary’s presentation when she was three or four years old, way before she’ll become the Mother of God. It is the beginning and is in contrast to the Christ the King celebration at the end. Hear more within the Homily.Hear why this Presentation Feast Day is important to our own Spiritual Journey. Listen to The Feast of the Presentation of Mary. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Significance of St. Andrew, the First Called, and His Importance to AdventIn a few days, Advent starts. Advent has four Sundays. One would think the Church looks at the calendar, finds December 25th, and then counts back four Sundays . . . and that would be the beginning of Advent. While that makes logical sense, that is not how the Church does it! The Church works from the other side of Christmas! The Church finds the 30th day of November . . . the Feast of St. Andrew. Then it finds the Sunday closest to that date. And that marks the first Sunday of Advent!It’s the same result, whichever way you do it, but the official way first looks for the Feast of St. Andrew. Why would the Church do that? Why tie Advent to St. Andrew the fisherman? In our present day, we do not hear much of Andrew. When we speak of Saints, many of the Apostle’s names do not come up. Maybe Peter, but very few others and Andrew is not normally a popular selection in modern day conversation.. . . His Importance to AdventWhile Andrew might not be a popular saint in the present age, that is not what the Church says. Saints all have a great impact on Christianity. However, arguably, none had a greater impact than the Apostles. On the Feast days of the Apostles, the Church sings the Gloria. That is not normally performed for the saints’ Feast Days, but for the Apostles the Church does so. In doing so, it indicates this Feast ranks higher. Hear more within the Homily.Among the Apostles, Andrew has a singular status. He is the first Apostle. The Church calls Andrew the “First of the Called”. Andrew, a disciple of St. John the Baptist, is the first to be called among the Apostles. The Homily explains the significance.Of all the religious during the times of St. John the Baptist’s ministry, Andrew was one of the few who responded and committed himself. He heard John’s message of his preparing the way for the One. Note the way this message celebrates the coming of Advent. There is One who is Coming.Hear more about the Significance of Andrew, the First Called and His Importance to Advent. Listen to this Meditation Media.______________________________________________________________________The image is called Saint Andrew the Apostle by Flemish Artist and Painter: Peter Paul Rubens: 1611The painting shows the calling of St. Peter and St. Andrew.
The Crucifix Relates to the Feast that we Celebrate Today, the Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe (TA)One of our most important symbols is the crucifix.And yet, what many do not realize is that the crucifix itself has an interesting and important history. Because crucifixion as a form of capital punishment was not something anybody was proud of. And it took the Christian faithful quite some time before there was a comfort zone with wearing the cross or depicting the cross, let alone with Christ on it.. . . the Lord Jesus Christ, King of the UniverseAnd the experience that led the church to develop its symbolism of the crucifix relates to the feast that we celebrate today, the Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Because the faithful, laboring under persecution, and then living in areas where there was no persecution, were conscious of also of living under the authority of emperors and kings.And faced with this, with these totalizing claims, the Holy Father understood it is important for us to pause and announce to the world that there is a king, there is a ruler with authority over all nations, not merely one.Understand the history of the Cross and the special Feast Day: Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Understand how it impacts our own spiritual journey! Listen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------------------------------------Note: (TA)Media with the symbol (TA) at the end of the title contains a transcript of the audio at the bottom of the post on the Queen of All Hearts website.
One of the Images of Christian Life and Thanksgiving, is Like a Pilgrimage: The First Thanksgiving On Thanksgiving Day many think of football or food or pilgrims, or a parade.But on this day, Thanksgiving has an element of particular clarity at a place like the Shrine. For those that attend a Shrine, that visitor is called a pilgrim. Just by showing up. It recasts what it means on this day. A pilgrim is a person that makes a spiritual or religious journey. One leaves home, and goes somewhere else not just to make a visit. It is a journey in union and harmony with God.There is a fundamental religious character embedded in the Thanksgiving origin. Thanksgiving is what happens before the meal. Hear more about the original Thanksgiving within the Homily.Faith guides and marks the original journey of the pilgrims. Embedded in Thanksgiving is something that is connected with the mystery of the Church. One of the Images of Christian Life is Like a Pilgrimage. Hear more why this is so. Understand what that really means and why it’s important for our own spiritual journey. Listen to this Meditation Media.The First Thanksgiving Occurred 60 Years Prior to Plymouth’s Thanksgiving in AmericaNote: Many people think the first Thanksgiving was at Plymouth, Massachusetts. in the 1600s. We were taught that, perhaps in school. During the Homily you’ll hear about the September 8, 1565 Thanksgiving in Florida by the first pilgrims in what would be United States. Mass was held on that days on a special feast day of Our Lady. This is not to minimize what was celebrated in Plymouth some sixty years later. Hear more within the Homily.And, regardless of when its celebrated in your home and country, Happy Thanksgiving from the Association of Mary, Queen of All Hearts.
St. Catherine of Alexandria: Invincible Martyr In today’s opening prayer the Church acknowledges St. Catherine of Alexandria: A Virgin and Invincible Martyr.St. Catherine across the centuries has a tremendous popularity. Over the last 150 years or so, however, her popularity has waned. But why was she celebrated from an early time among the faithful (she was born around 287 and died when she was either 17 or 22 years of age)? Why? The clue to this may be the words . . . Invincible Martyr.Catherine was of royal blood and gifted with a high level of education and was brilliant. The Homily provides more detail. She came to her faith through her studies. The more she studied, she encountered the truth of the Gospel.Hear more about this incredible saint and what made her Invincible. Listen to this Meditation Media.
As We Approach Advent, and Prepare for His Coming . . . Hear What Jesus Says About His Second Coming (TA) In today’s readings one can understand why man looks at nature . . . the beauty of the sky, the vastness of the ocean and the power of the storms . . . and calls them God.But note how odd it is that as fascinated as man is by these things, he has a tendency to stop at the things and not move beyond them. And so it is that one is overwhelmed by the beauty of creation. But doesn’t ask the next question.Who makes these beautiful and passing things if not one who is beautiful and does not pass away? To see the might of the natural world, its great strength, and to pause there and say, but what is the source of this might and this strength? Why is it that when the human mind sees the pointing finger indicating something beyond itself, it never looks past the fingertip and fails to see God.Hear What Jesus Says About His Second ComingThis disposition that we hear in our first reading (not included within this audio), that the heavens themselves, as our psalms said, proclaim the glory of God, and yet we… See the heavens proclaiming in their beauty but fail to miss what they proclaim. This is a disposition that underlies the teaching of Jesus. So, Jesus now, speaking to his disciples, is speaking of that day when the Son of Man will be revealed.And in speaking of this way, he is pointing ahead to His second coming, to that day when the Lord will come and there will be no doubt at all who He is. When the glory of the Lord, the triumph of the Lord, the victory of the Lord will be unambiguously revealed. And yet he says, even as that day arrives, there are going to be two very, very different outcomes, depending on the state of the attentiveness of the heart of man.As we approach Advent and prepare for His coming . . . Hear What Jesus Says About His Second Coming. Listen to this Meditation Media.___________________________________________________________________Note: (TA)Media with the symbol (TA) at the end of the title contains a transcript of the audio at the bottom of the post. Select to display.
Understand What Jesus Tells Us About Devotedness in Serving. Come and Share Your Master’s Joy!Today’s Gospel is at a point where Jesus is instructing His Church on the final things.He is in Jerusalem during his last week in this life. To help His disciples He tells them a parable about a master who is going away for a while. In speaking to His disciples Jesus is also speaking to us. As we know Jesus dies, rises and ascends into heaven. He will be away for a while. In the meantime, as in the parable, there are those who are sent forward in their master’s name.Today’s Gospel might at first glance be confusing as the Church places before us in the first reading the description of a good wife. Why does the Church pair that reading with the Gospel?Today’s opening prayer tells us what the Church is thinking. The prayer (not included within this audio) tells us there is a great joy in serving the Lord. We ask in the prayer for an increase in devotedness because happiness is found in servicing the Lord. When we hear these words in the prayer, we understand more about the first reading. Serving and caring about one another is a joy.Listen to Understand What Jesus Tells Us About Devotedness in Serving. Listen more to this Meditation Media._______________________________________________________Note: For a brief moment, the microphone partially cuts out. It is replaced. Be patient for the moment the first microphone fails.
Why Is the Feast Day of the Dedication of Two Basilicas Important? Why does the Church celebrate the dedication of a building(s)?The feast celebrated today reminds us that indeed, dedication of buildings is very important.In Rome, as the Church began to grow, it experienced the martyrdom of both St. Peter and St. Paul. Their blood was spilled in testifying to the truth. The location of their martyrdom became centers where Christians gathered and prayed.Hear more why these two Basilicas are important. Hear more about these two great disciples of Jesus – Peter and Paul! Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Willingness to Offer Ourselves in Everyday Faithfulness that is Valued Greatly by GodThe Willingness to Offer Ourselves in Everyday Faithfulness . . .In the first reading (not included within this audio) of St. Paul we hear the name the name Tertius.St. Paul used secretaries to write his letters as he dictated them. At times, St. Peter and St. John also used secretaries. The Homily briefly dives into this further.Why a secretary? St. Paul did not have a great penmanship. The Lord was please to give a gift of something that is small that has a great value. Something as simple as Tertius’ penmanship was greater to the world than a dozen miracles. His skill enables St. Paul to leave behind legacy of great teachings.. . . that is Valued Greatly by GodGod values small things in everyday life. We often relate greatness to big events and actions. God values everyday small things just as much. Note what that says for every day and ordinary faithfulness! It is the willingness to offer ourselves in our everyday lives that has a great value.It is not the pausing and waiting to do something big. Because, as we know, that moment often doesn’t come. Hear more what God values in our everyday spiritual lives.Make Friends With Dishonest WealthWith that in mind, we hear the Gospel story of Jesus telling His disciples about Dishonest Wealth . . . and to use it! What is Dishonest Wealth? Why should we use anything that is dishonest? Hear more within the Homily.Listen to this Meditation Media.
Jesus Tells the Parable of the Lamps, and Cautions Us: When Good Enough in Our Spirituality is Not Really Being Ready (TA)In today’s Gospel, we encounter the parable of the ten individuals awaiting the arrival of the bridegroom with their lamps. They have been exclusively designated to receive, greet, and escort him. Equally bestowed with dignity, invited, and given a place of prominence, these ten individuals share a common task. However, the Lord’s message emphasizes a crucial distinction.Among them, five are deemed foolish, while the other five are considered wise. Importantly, this wisdom isn’t linked to academic achievements or worldly understanding. Instead, it revolves around a simple recognition: the wise acknowledge the need to ensure an ample supply of oil to keep their lamps burning.Their sole responsibility is clear – to be prepared for the bridegroom’s arrival with a lit lamp. It sounds straightforward, yet the emphasis lies in the meticulous care required to ensure readiness. This involves securing enough oil, acknowledging the uncertainty of the bridegroom’s arrival time.Herein lies the central theme: readiness. The wise recognize the necessity of being prepared, understanding the unpredictability of the bridegroom’s arrival. In contrast, the foolish ones declare their readiness with full lamps, considering it “good enough.” This attitude, as highlighted by the Lord, exposes a perilous spirit that can reside within all of us – the inclination to settle for mediocrity.. . . is Not Really Being ReadyThe human heart often aspires for the best, yet, more frequently, it succumbs to the temptation of accepting “good enough.” This mentality opposes going the extra mile, taking additional steps, and embracing generosity. The Lord’s parable lays bare the danger of contentment with mediocrity and challenges us to strive for excellence, urging us to transcend the allure of “good enough.”Listen to this Meditation Media.---------------------------------------------------(TA) Transcript is available on the Queen of All Hearts' post.
Be Careful of Those Who Give Spiritual Advice, But Are Not Vested in Your Spiritual Well-Being In the Gospel, Jesus tells us to listen to the Pharisees, but do not follow their example.We need to understand this Gospel, because of the impact on our own Spiritual Life.Because they are in authority, you need to listen to them . . . Jesus tells the crowd. But you do not need to live like them. Wow! Confusing? Hear more within the Homily.Jesus talks about a false character of teaching. It was prevalent in the past, and it is still with us today. Understand what this means because, for many, it will negatively impact their own Spiritual Life. Hear more within the Homily.Jesus tells us to Be Careful of Those Who Give Spiritual Advice, But Are Not Vested in Your Spiritual Well-Being. Listen to this Meditation Media and understand the implication for your own Spiritual Journey.
The Four Last Things: Death, Judgement, Heaven and Hell The four last things await all of us at the end of our lives on Earth.The four last things await all creation at the end of the ages. In the end, all things pass away. Hear what awaits all of us at the end of our lives.Man was not made for death. We were created for something other than death. It’s important to understand that. Understand what the Catholic Church says on these Last Four Things.Listen to this Meditation Media on The Four Last Things********Editor's Note: The Seven Deadly Sins and the Four Last Things: Dutch Painter: Hieronymus Bosch: 1500This entire painting (which appears only on the QoAH's website) has the title above. The image that you see, which appears in the top right of the full painting, is the image of Judgement. Each of the last four things appear at the corners of the full painting.
Scripture Tells Us: If You Wish to Follow Jesus, You Have an Obligation to Take Care of OthersScripture Tells Us: If You Wish to Follow Jesus, . . . Today’s readings present a number of wonderful elements of Christian life.In the first reading (not included within this audio), St. Paul points out much of the law is a series of do nots . . . do not steal, do not … do this. Note the temptation when one hears this statement. Christians normally say . . . I did not steal, I did not bring false witness, etc. Since I am not doing these do nots, I must be doing OK!But St. Paul is not saying that. All of the do nots add up to do no harm. But St. Paul wants us to love our neighbor as ourselves. St. Paul says love does no harm, so it complies with all the old law says. But love doesn’t stop at doing no harm. Love is concerned with doing good for another. That is a big difference. Hear more within the Homily.St. Paul says it’s not enough to do no harm, if we do no good for those in need. St. Paul says if you take care of yourself, recognize that you have an equal obligation to help the poor and vulnerable . . . an equal obligation to take care of others. That does not come from a government requirement, or a specific philosophy. That fact comes from scripture. You have an equal obligation to take care of others. It is hard wired into what it means to follow Jesus Christ. Hear more within the Homily.. . . You Have an Obligation to Take Care of OthersToday’s gospel tells us more. St. Luke begins by saying great crowds were following Jesus. Jesus is not impressed by the number of people. He does not celebrate the great number within the crowd. Interesting enough, He gives everyone in the crowd a reason not to be there. Jesus tells the crowd what it actually means to follow Him. He says it’s wonderful that you showed up but let’s talk about what it means to follow Me! He lists the conditions in today’s Gospel.The Lord insists if you are going to follow Me, I come first. Why? Jesus, through the scripture tells us something important. Love Me first, and then you’ll love your family and others rightly and more fully. But do not focus on other things first! Why? Hear more within the Homily.Hear what it means to follow Jesus. Understand If You Wish to Follow Jesus, You Have an Obligation to Take Care of Others. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Faith, Hope and Love. Hear what St. Paul and Jesus Says About Hope St. Paul articulates the groaning of creation.He speaks (the first reading is not included within this audio) of the connection between the creation and the fall of man. He speaks of the creation and fall of the universe itself.There is a longing for the manifestation of the children of God . . . that would be all of us! That’s odd! Somehow the universe longs to see something that has been given to us! St. Paul speaks of a longing within the universe for how it was supposed to be. Your salvation and my salvation are related to the universe! How? Hear more within the Homily.HopeIn the Homily we also hear what St. Paul says about three virtues Faith, Hope and Love. Much has been written about Faith and Love. Much less is written about Hope. Yet, it is Hope that moves our Faith and Love along. Hear more within the Homily.St. Paul also tells us about religion and its two basic movements: Struggle and Hope. Struggle without Hope is painful endurance. Struggle without Hope is working without any meaning or direction. Many in this world live that way. Hear what St. Paul has to say.Parable of the Mustard Seed . . . and HopeIn the Gospel we hear Jesus tell us what Heaven is like. He tells us the parable of the mustard seed. Its tiny. People normally do not notice it. Yet out of this tiny object, there is a quite growth. Suddenly, there is an abundance.Faith, Hope and Love. Hear what St. Paul and Jesus Says About Hope. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Impact of All Saints and Our Own Spiritual Prayer LifeThe Feast of All Saints is a very ancient feast.Early in Christian history it was important to hear the story of early Christians who spilled their blood for the Lord. In Rome the Church was persecuted. The Church was unsure about the survival of any specific member, and therefore gathered below the Coliseum. As the faithful were killed for their faith, their bodies were taken below ground, preserved and kept.The community would often bring the remains into the area where the community would gather for Mass. Hear more about the significance of this custom within the Homily.The custom of taking a relic and having it present during Mass, was not to honor the memory of this special member. The custom materialized because we are at prayer with the martyr. They are singing glory to God in heaven, while we sing the praise of God here on earth. Note the full communion. Hear more on The Impact of All Saints and Our Own Spiritual Prayer Life.Listen to this Meditation Media.
All Saints Day Means Something Different If We Realize How We Are All Created! Today we celebrate a great mystery.The Church celebrates today All Saints Day . . . in doing so, the Church celebrates the reality of holiness claiming human life. This is a remarkable thing. We celebrate not the exception, but the rule. We grow up thinking the saints are exceptional. They are not! They are the rule. Wow! What context is this discussed? Hear more within the Homily.Saints are not exceptional. They are the standard. The mediocrity that most of us mark our days, is the exception.Man was not created for sin or selfishness. Man was not created for self-indulgence. All these things that humans say are natural, they are not. They are what most humans have fallen into.What is natural is something very different. Man was created in the image and likeness of God. Realize what that means! How easy we forget that. Hear more within the Homily.Listen to All Saints Day and what that should mean for us! Understand All Saints Day Means Something Different If We Realize How We Are All Created!Listen more to this Meditation Media.
The Command to Love Our Neighbor Extends to the Dead Also! All Souls’ Day Reflections and What Jesus Tells Us! Jesus Tells Us What Love Really Is! Its impact on Our Spiritual Life!Love is the very essence of living in communion with God. In today’s Gospel, the Lord is asked what is the greatest of commandments. Out of all the commandments, Jesus tells us the two most important. And they both center around Love.We often think love involves only the heart. But Jesus tells us Love involves more than the heart. Hear more within the Homily. Hear what Jesus tells us and what it means within our spiritual life.All Souls Day ReflectionsAs we begin November (Nov. 2nd) we celebrate the Feast of All Souls. We all have experienced a reality – the loss of family members or friends. We have all been saddened by this loss. Based on our own experience, we can have conflicting feelings for those who have gone before us.For some of us, having spent so much time with a loved one who has past, we may feel like we do not know how to move forward. It feels final.The command to love our neighbor extends to the dead too. Not just the living. Listen to this Meditation Media._______________________________________________________The Handout referenced within the Homily may be found in a pdf. Select this post on the QoAH's website for the link.
The Anguish of the Lord. The Lord Uses this Term on a Day Other than His Passion! Why? We are not used to hearing that statement from the lips of Jesus, especially on a day that’s not Good Friday.There is an anguish in my heart, an anguish in my spirit. I am in anguish that I have not yet done . . . what I have come to do.His desire is the giving of himself. It is the anguish, in fact, of love. The anguish of one who wants to give himself up for others.When does He say it and what does He mean? What impact should these words have on our spiritual life?Hear more within this Meditation Media.
All Saints Day and Our Call to Holiness The Gospel is the famous Sermon on the Mount.It doesn’t begin with the Beatitudes. When Jesus saw the crowd, Jesus went up the mountain. He saw and moved away, and then sat down. His disciples then came to Him. He waited for those who would follow Him, and then he taught them!It may be subtle in this passage. But it is an aspect of the Lord in which we reflect upon too little. The Lord teaches us something. The crowd sees the Lord and the Lord sees the crowd. He then moves and awaits those who will follow Him, before departing His message! The teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is a teaching for those that moved with and to the Lord. Again, a lesson for us even today! Hear more in the audio.Feast of All SaintsThe Feast of All Saints is celebrated on Nov. 1st. It is an overwhelming number. In the first reading (not in this audio), John describes what he sees in heaven. Too many to count, he is overwhelmed. When they praise the Lord together, it sounds like thunder, there are so many. So what does he see? He sees these great numbers of souls in the glory of heaven; in the brightness of heaven.We Are All Called To HolinessThe Homily goes further into Holiness. Holiness is what we are asked to be here on earth. John sees the holy souls in heaven in their glory. How can there be so many? Many people think holiness is not for them! We are all called to be holy, says St. Louis de Montfort. Many Catholics do not strive to be so holy, because they believe it is unattainable. If it is so rare, why does John see an overwhelming number. . . too numerous to count.Hear more on our call to holiness, and the Feast of All Saints.
A Prayer Without Words: The Lesson Jesus, Martha and Mary Teaches Us Today! (TA) The readings today, at first glance, do not seem interconnected.The first reading is about Jonah and his warnings. The Gospel is the story of Martha and Mary. Yet there is a connection. Listen to the Homily for this insight.Jesus, Martha and Mary have a lesson for us! We know the story. Jesus comes to the house of Martha and Mary. Martha serves the Lord one way. Mary sits and listens to the Lord. Hear more within the Homily.Yet there is a lesson. It is a special prayer without words. Listen to A Prayer Without Words: The Lesson Jesus, Martha and Mary Teaches Us Today! Listen to this Meditation Media.******You can find the transcript on the QoAH's post for our international audience and for English-speaking listeners who prefer to read the Homily.
The Power of Persistence Prayer: The Secret to and the Depth of Asking, Seeking, and Knocking The Homily reflects on the connection between the instructions on prayer given by Jesus to his disciples and the importance of persistence and confidence in prayer.The Homily also emphasizes the need to root oneself in God’s word and will, highlighting the significance of understanding what to ask for and the necessity of proper desire and understanding in prayer. The Homily reflects also on the need for initiative and activity in the spiritual life and the infinite goodness of God, which forms the basis of confidence in asking. When one prays, you are encouraged to seek and ask for spiritual blessings and recognizing God’s abundant grace.The secret of prayer is also revealed. Understand the Secret to and the Depth of Asking, Seeking, and Knocking. Listen to this Meditation Media.********Editor's Note: You can find the transcript on the QoAH's post for our international audience and for English-speaking listeners who prefer to read the Homily.
Our Lady’s and St. Dominic’s Message: You Matter in Infinite Ways (TA)Our Lady’s and St. Dominic’s Message: . . . On the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary the afternoon’s conference focuses on how the Rosary unites us.The talk focuses on the significance of the Rosary, with a particular emphasis on the teachings of St. Dominic and the role of the Virgin Mary in guiding individuals toward a deeper understanding of Jesus Christ.St. Dominic uses the Rosary in his teachings. He’s using the Rosary as a way of rooting the basic elements, the basic narrative of the faith in the hearts of the people. But as he’s doing it, he’s also teaching them that in your prayer, don’t think first about what you want. Think first about learning what is pleasing to God.. . . You Matter in Infinite WaysFirst, I pray in the Spirit of Christ, and then, like Christ, I turn to my Mother, even as I continue to look at Him. Our speaking to Mary is at the service of my learning to see and know and understand the truth of Jesus Christ.This is why the Rosary is spiritually so very powerful. This is why the Rosary is morally so transformative. Because as Dominic taught the people, you become not what you see, you become who you see. When Our Lady is with us, when she is present, she causes the face of her son to shine forth more brightly and more clearly.The Fruit of Praying the RosaryOur Lady helps us when we are conscious of being with Her as we meditate on the mysteries. Our Lady is that one who’s not just convinced that they’re great, she knows the greatness of the mysteries of her son, because she treasures each and every one of them in her heart. And so, from that treasury where she considers all things, she begins to instruct us out of the treasury of her consideration of the greatness of her son.The real fruit, in no small measure of praying the Rosary regularly, is a double fruit. It’s the fruit of coming to know Jesus Christ so well, that I can become more like him. I become who I see. But for that to be true, I have to see him. I have to rightly see him. But it also means that my heart itself becomes something of a storeroom, something of a treasury just like Our Lady’s.You Matter in an Infinite WayAnd when St. Dominic tells people it matters what you do, what he’s really saying to them is you matter. You matter in an infinite way. And what you do matters. How you live matters. And if it matters that much, maybe we want to get it right. And so he would say to them, let’s start with this. Let’s start with the Rosary.And in no small measure precisely because it is a chain. Not the chain that prisoners wear, not a chain that enslaves, but a chain that joins. A chain that unites. And this chain of Hail Marys and this chain of mysteries is at the service of uniting our lives more.Listen more to this Conference on the Rosary. Hear more within this Meditation Media.******You can find the transcript on the QoAH's post for our international audience and for English-speaking listeners who prefer to read the Homily.Editor’s Note:The recording began a few minutes into the conference. Therefore, the opening prayer and the opening statements were not recorded.
The Rosary is a Great and Mighty Thing Precisely Because it is Prayer With Mary On this Feast of the Rosary, the Church gives us three spiritual treasures.The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles has the Church sitting around Our Lady. The Responsorial Psalm takes place earlier . . . at the time of The Magnificat. Lastly, the Gospel takes place at the Fullness of Time . . . the Annunciation.Three spiritual readings on the Feast of the Holy Rosary. The Homily tells us more.The Rosary is not merely a prayer to Mary, strange as it is to put it like that. It is not merely a prayer that is effective. But rather, it is a great and mighty thing precisely because it is prayer with Mary.Listen to the greatness of the Feast Day. Understand what happens when we begin saying the Rosary. Listen to this Meditation Media.You can find the transcript on the QoAH's post for our international audience and for English-speaking listeners who prefer to read the Homily.
Jesus Teaches His Disciples to Pray: Why the Jonah Story is Also a Story about Prayer (TA) The Church puts before us two readings.The first is the conclusion of the Jonah story (not included within the audio). In the Gospel reading, Jesus teaches His disciples to pray.Why does the Church present us with these readings? What does the potential destruction surrounding Jonah have anything to do with prayer? What is the Lord teaching us about prayer?Listen to the Lord Teaching His Disciples about Prayer. Understand how prayer plays a part in the Jonah story. Listen to the implication for us!Hear more within this Meditation Media.We are initiating a brief experiment within Meditation Media, wherein we will provide a written transcript alongside the audio content. This trial aims to gauge the utility of this feature for our non-English speaking members and listeners across the globe and assess its usefulness for English-speaking members who may experience hearing challenges.The plan is to enable this feature for a short time to determine its usefulness by examining the survey responses.Only if you use the transcript, please consider completing an anonymous survey comprising four questions. The survey does not necessitate any form of identification. For additional information, refer to the Meditation Media Transcription Announcement on the Mary, Queen of All Hearts website.
In the Presence of the Angels, I Will Sing Your Praises Lord! When we gather for Mass, we stand with one foot on this Earth, and the other, in Heaven.Our liturgy and prayers in Church, are not merely our own! Our prayer at Mass participates in and unites itself to that unending jubilation of Angelic worship in Heaven.On the Feast of the Archangels, hear what it is we celebrate! Understand more about Angels and how they participate in the Mass. Understand who the Archangels are in Heaven.Listen to In the Presence of the Angels, I Will Sing Your Praises Lord! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Why King Herod Couldn’t See Jesus and Its Implications for Us! Over the last several days we hear that the Israelites return home to Israel.The Persian king tells the Israelites to go home and build a temple to God. We hear, while they agree, the Israelites do return home, but do not immediately build a temple. They build homes for themselves to try to get things back to where they were before. Hear more within the Homily and its significance.In today’s Gospel we hear an odd reading. We hear that King Herod is confused as to who Jesus really is! He is told he is another John the Baptist. That is not possible, since he had John beheaded. Herod is confused and wants to meet Jesus.Why do we have this Gospel reading? Why is this important?There is something curious within this brief reading. Herod is curious and puzzled by Jesus. Many calls Jesus a great prophet, but Herod doesn’t know who this one is. He recognizes Jesus but is unclear who Jesus is. Then the Gospel reading ends with a curious statement. King Herod kept trying to see him. What an odd ending.Why is it odd? Seeing Jesus was easy enough to do, if one was truly interested in seeing him. He was always surrounded by crowds. It couldn’t be very hard to see Jesus . . . if one wanted to and really tried. The king wanted to see Jesus . . . but couldn’t.The Holy Spirit, through St. Luke tells us the answer. Seeing Jesus is not a trivial thing. Listen to Why King Herod Couldn’t See Jesus. Listen to this Meditation Media and understand its impact on our own spiritual journey.
There Were Three Prodigal Sons, Not Two! What Each Tell Us for Our Spiritual Journey In the Gospel, we hear there were two Prodigal Sons.Yet, there were actually three!After hearing about the first reading (not included within this audio), we hear Jesus talk about the Prodigal Sons. First, understand there were actually three, and each influence on our own Spiritual Journey.Listen to this Meditation Media.
Jesus’ Foretelling of Good Friday: Jesus Raises the Widow’s Son The Church established standards for Apostolic Service.St. Paul tells us of these characteristics in the first reading (not included within this audio). St. Paul tells us what a true calling really involves. Hear more within the Homily.In the Gospel we hear about the story of a young man who died. We hear about a funeral procession, accompanied by friends and the mother of the son. There are many who share in the affliction of the mother.St. Luke tells us the heart of Jesus is struck with compassion for the mother. The Lord is moved with compassion. The Homily touches upon something that is very beautiful within this scripture.Jesus is not only touched by the women’s sadness. In seeing her, Jesus sees something else too. We hear that the young man, whose life ended tragically early, was the mother’s only son. We also her that she was a widow.The comparison is striking. Jesus is a relatively young man in His early thirties. Likewise, Jesus is the only Son of His mother. And likewise, His mother is a widow.We again hear that Jesus is moved to compassion by a widow afflicted by the loss of her only son. Jesus knows there will be another widow deeply grieved by the loss of her only son.Hear more within the Meditation Media. Hear more of Jesus’ Foretelling of Good Friday: Jesus Raises the Widow’s Son.
The Feast of the Most Holy Name of MaryThe celebration of the name of Our Lady is beautiful and complex.It is simple . . . the name of Mary. But it is also complex, because to understand this name, it requires considerable effort.If you read the letters of St. Paul, they are obviously written after the birth of Jesus. He says Jesus is born of woman, but he does not name the woman. He does not describe her. If we pause with this reality, and if we did not have St. Luke’s Gospel and St. Matthew’s Gospel (which give us her name) what would we have? Listen further to this Homily.But we do know her name! This is the beauty of the account of Jesus’s birth in St. Luke’s Gospel. Amazingly, we know her name because she makes her appearance within scripture at the moment Christ will come into the world!Hear more and Understand the Most Holy Name of Mary, and Why That is Important! Listen to this Meditation Media.
How Did This Feast Day of the Exaltation of the Most Holy Cross Come About? What Do We Really Celebrate? One of the factors that gives rise to the Feast of The Exaltation of the Most Holy Cross, . . .. . . is an event that happened 1400 years ago. At that time Persian armies moved across Europe and Asia conquering many cities including Jerusalem. It was sport to capture the Christians and kill them. The Persian king carries away from Jerusalem the remaining piece of the Cross residing in that city. The other pieces had previously been taken to Rome. The Persians took the Cross away as a sign of triumph and as a sign of their strength.Years later Jerusalem raised an army and fought the Persians, who realized they could not win without great loss. Jerusalem negotiated piece, and one of the conditions was the return of the Holy Cross.When the Cross was returned there was a triumphant procession in Jerusalem, through the streets to the same place on the hill where Jesus died.Something odd happened during this procession. Hear about this Most Holy Cross. Understand What it is We Celebrate on The Exaltation of the Most Holy Cross of the Lord. Listen to the Meditation Media.
Understanding the Righteousness of St. Joseph and Its Implications! This is how the birth of Jesus came about, says St. Matthew.Funny. St. Matthew begins with these words but does not start with the details. Matthew continues by speaking about Joseph, and his relationship with Mary. He speaks of the internal conflict that Joseph needed to work through . . . this is how the birth came about.St. Matthew’s description is curious! We do not hear about the moment of birth. We do not hear about the journey to Bethlehem. Furthermore, we do not hear about any of these details! We are given a focus look of St. Joseph. The Homily also briefly mentions the beautiful icon of St. Joseph. Why would St. Matthew describe the birth in such manner?As we read scripture about St. Joseph prior to the birth of Jesus, we discover some wonderful things. Hidden in the description as Joseph learns his spouse is pregnant and “the child is not his”, there is a statement that Joseph decided to divorce Mary quietly. Why?We hear something strange. We hear that Joseph was a righteous man. This is a high compliment. To be righteous, is to have a high character. Curiously, righteous is not enough to describe Joseph. These words are not there by accident. He is a righteous man and yet . . . he was unwilling to expose her to shame. The Homily explains this further.Joseph is righteous, just and merciful.Listen to this Meditation Media. Listen to Understanding the Righteousness of St. Joseph and Its Implications!
Lord, How Should I Show Mercy?In today’s Gospel, Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive his brother. Jesus then responds. If one just focuses on this part of the story, it's possible to miss the real message behind what Jesus is saying.Listen to this Meditation Media.
Healing of Peter’s Mother-in-law: An Example of Intercessory Prayer by the Faithful
Today’s Gospel reading is like a bridge reading.
We hear from St. Luke, Jesus left the synagogue, and we will soon be on the Sea of Galilee with Peter. Today’s reading, we are in Simon Peter’s house.
Jesus knew Simon before today’s reading. Jesus is in the home of one that He knows. This is informative! We know that Jesus visits the homes of those that know Him . . . our homes as well.
Upon entering the home, Jesus meets illness. Simon’s mother-in-law is ill. She is sick, bedridden and her health is in danger. She is incapable of doing anything other than lying in bed.
Note, we don’t hear that Simon’s mother is sick, so Jesus goes there. That was not why He went. Of course, Jesus knows Simon’s mother is sick. But He was pleased to go to the house, because it was Simon’s house.
The mother-in-law did not cry out for healing. The Church does not know if she even knew Jesus was there. What we do know is people with growing faith . . . those in Simon’s household . . . interceded on behalf of the mother-in-law. These faithful know they can turn to Him not only for themselves, but on behalf of others. An early example of the faithful performing intercessory prayers.
Hear more about Intercessory Prayers and how that should impact our spiritual life. Listen to this Meditation Media.
No One Merely Has a Private Relationship with Jesus
The Gospel reading today reveals Peter’s meeting Jesus, again.
The Gospel reading begins and ends with an abundance. We do well to focus on the beginning abundance. The temptation is to focus on the abundance of fish caught. The Gospel reading begins with an abundance of people. There is a crowd pressing in on Jesus. Note the contrast. The reading doesn’t begin with Jesus and Simon and their relationship. Rather, Jesus’ relationship with Simon Peter is embedded within the great crowd that presses in upon Jesus.
Why is this important? Because it is instructive! No one merely has a private relationship with Jesus. If there is any relationship with us at all, it is the fruit of the broader relationship with His people. Listen to this Mediation Media: No One Merely Has a Private Relationship with Jesus
Our Lady: The New Eve vs the Original Eve
One of the ways the Church has considered and spoken about Our Lady is via a comparison. Mary has been referred to from ancient days as the New Eve. That is because St. Paul referred to Jesus as the second . . . or the New Adam. Whereas through the first Adam, death came into the world . . . the new Adam life comes to all of us.
When speak of Adam, naturally, one thinks of Eve. Just as the original eve participated in bringing death to the world . . . the New Eve participates in bringing life and salvation into the world. The comparisons continue within this conference.
The Church reflects on this meditation on this, the day of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. The Meditation Media looks at Our Lady and Eve, through the specific lens of birth.
Listen to this Meditation Media: Our Lady: The New Eve vs the Original Eve
With Delight I Rejoice in the Lord: The Birth of Our Blessed Mother Mary
The Gospel tells us of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, as well as the details on the birth of Christ.
Before the Gospel, the chant repeated includes the verse: With delight I rejoice in the Lord. This is a strange verse, since much of the world’s joy, does not include delight. What really does that mean?
On this day, the Cause of Our Joy, and the delight, is the birth of she who is the Mother of Jesus Christ. We do not simple rejoice in the birth of Mary. We rejoice in the birth of the Mother of Jesus Christ! This is a remarkable mystery. Hear more within the Homily!
Listen to this Meditation Media.
Editor's Note: Go to the QoAH's website to read more about the uniqueness of this painting.
God Gives Us Work To Give Mankind Its Dignity
The Lord tells us do not worry!
Do not worry about what you’ll eat . . . or drink . . . or wear. It’s tempting to say to the Lord, . . . that’s easy for You to say! When He tells us do not worry about tomorrow, it’s tempting to say . . . that’s great but You are the Son of God! For those of us who need to work for a living . . . we need to take care of these things!
The Lord wraps up His teaching by saying, Sufficient for a day for its own evil!
What is the Lord really telling us? The lesson the Lord is telling us is . . . work is intrinsic to what it is to be human. Work has been given by God to give man his dignity. The world may look at work as a necessary evil . . . to be avoided when possible. That is not how God sees work!
Listen more to this Homily. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
If Today You Hear His Voice . . .
These are the words we hear periodically at Mass. Indeed, the Church has repeated these words daily for well over a thousand years. Why are these words important? We hear within the Homily that the people of God have a hard time listening. Wow! But what if we do hear His voice? What if we do not? How do we listen to hear God?
Hear more within this Meditation Media.
Brief Overview: Part I of IV: This multi-part symposium explores the theme of Mary, The Cause of Our Joy!The conference focuses on three key facets. Firstly, the conference explores the profound reasons behind Mary’s role as the Cause of Our Joy. Secondly, the audio examines the historical significance of Mary as the originator of a pivotal event from many years past—the birth of Jesus. However, our inquiry extends beyond mere acknowledgment of historical occurrences; we must also recognize the ongoing impact that underscores Mary’s role in our joy—the continuous bestowal of divine grace through her. Thirdly, the Church’s attribution of this title to Our Lady underscores her active agency in shaping our lives. The first conference will provide a glimpse into the significance of this acknowledgment. Mary’s Role as The Cause of Our Joy: A Deeper PerspectiveThe audio focuses on Our Lady, hailed as The Cause of Our Joy. This title carries ancient origins in reverence to Our Lady, yet it has become rare in today’s modern world, much like several other titles associated with her. Let us take a moment to ponder this aspect as we embark upon this conference. Many are familiar with the Litany of Loretto, the Litany of Mary.However, the Litany is not a mere compilation of titles for Our Lady; it surpasses being a mere catalog of her attributes. It serves as a way of bestowing names upon Our Lady. As you engage with the Litany, observe how each title of Our Lady is followed by the entreaty… “Pray for Us!” This illustrates that we are not merely enumerating characteristics but engaging in a dialogue with a person – we are invoking her in diverse ways. Further insights on this can be explored within the conference.Every exquisite expression found within the Litany offers another facet through which we can comprehend Mary. What lies in the utterance of the word “Mary!”? When we invoke the Cause of Our Joy, we are not merely referencing Our Lady; rather, we are uncovering the essence of who she truly is – the very origin of our joy. These themes are explored more extensively within the conference.It is crucial to acknowledge that Jesus Christ is unequivocally THE CAUSE OF OUR JOY! Any discourse concerning Our Lady is inherently directed towards revealing Jesus as The Cause of Our Joy. This prompts us to inquire: What forms your source of joy? Allow the conference’s discourse on this subject to guide your reflections.OUR JOYConsider the weight behind the phrase “OUR JOY.” It signifies a joy that is not solely personal; it transcends individual delight to become a collective OUR JOY. Whose joy? On one hand, it encompasses the joy of the Church. It encapsulates the joy of all humanity! As we contemplate the inclusiveness inherent in the term “OUR,” it becomes evident that we are delving into a joy that extends beyond personal satisfaction, touching not only one’s own life but also radiating to those around us.What Does it Mean to say Mary, Cause of Our Joy? How do we genuinely comprehend OUR JOY? How do we obtain this Joy?In this conference, a great overview of The Cause of Our Joy is given. It not only includes Our Lady’s impact on salvation, but the Joy of the presence of God. Uncover more depths within this initial conference by lending your ear to its insights.
Part II of IV: Mary, The Cause of OUR Joy!The Lord Tells Us: You Will Know Your Joy, When You Know THE WOMAN.NOS CUM PROLE PIA BENEDICAT VIRGO MARIA(May the Virgin Mary bless us with her loving child)The opening portion of this conference explains the history and meaning of this Latin phrase. A phrase that was also important to St. Louis de Montfort.During the initial conference, a considerable amount of time was allocated to exploring the inherent human desire for happiness. It was conveyed that in the beginning, Adam and Eve resided in a state of bliss within paradise. The concept of paradise inherently embodies everlasting joy. Regrettably, humanity was led astray by malevolent forces, causing a forfeiture of this joy and severance from divine communion. Consequently, this loss led to the emergence of sorrow as an inheritance. Man, in isolation, is incapable of attaining complete joyfulness.THE WOMANLeft to his own devices, man would inevitably return to the dust, devoid of the experience of joy. Fortunately, the story’s culmination isn’t so bleak. This conference’s audio delves further into this narrative. In his dialogue with the Lord, Adam attributes his transgression to the woman who offered him the apple, thus leading him down the path of evil. In response, the Lord pledges to provide Adam with a new woman, a distinctive daughter. Humanity will be bestowed with a new woman, through whom the fruit of life will be bestowed. This is no ordinary woman—it is THE WOMAN. The profound significance of this revelation is expounded upon in the conference audio.The true embodiment of joy transcends mere emotion, state of being, or circumstance; it manifests as a person. The genuine joy that resonates within the human heart and spirit is embodied in Jesus Christ. Ultimately, the heart’s purpose is to forge a connection with the Lord, cultivating a sense of communion. The authentic paradise for which the human heart yearns extends beyond a physical location; it finds its fulfillment in the Lord.Therefore, it is crucial to heed the Lord’s words. When the Lord introduces THE WOMAN, a profound statement is being made. Your comprehension of joy will be complete when you come to know THE WOMAN.In this conference, we also hear about what the Lord means, via St. Luke, IN THE FULLNESS OF TIME and how this relates to The Cause of Our Joy.
Part III of IV: Mary, The Cause of Our Joy!What Is Heaven’s Name for Mary? Hail, Full of Grace!The Cause of OUR JOY. Let’s linger with these words, OUR JOY. In the first conference, the meaning of these words was covered. But the term is more inclusive. When we meditate on the words, OUR Joy, we must also consider the joy of Our Lord.There is something we must linger with . . . Our Lady is the Vessel of The Almighty’s Joy. Wow! When we say OUR JOY, do we ever think about The Almighty’s Joy. Hear more within this conference.Heaven’s Name for MaryWhen the Angel Gabriel greets Our Lady, he says the following. “Hail, Full of Grace”! Gabriel does not say, Hail Mary . . . like we do when we say the Rosary. Gariel says, Hail, Full of Grace. This is Heaven’s name for Mary!What is Grace? What would your life be like if you were filled with Grace? How does God view Mary? How does God VIEW YOU? Mary, the new Garden of Eden. All topics covered within this audio.The saints will write, the soles who learn to trust Our Lady, will begin to experience something that is wonderful, as long as that trust is great. What does that really mean? The Cause of Our Joy!Linger with Heaven’s Name for Mary. Listen to this Conference Audio.
Part IV of IV: Mary, Cause of Our JoyOur Lady in Heaven, Adorned with Grace, Intercedes for Us: The Cause of Our Joy The preceding conferences examine the various facets of the theme: “Mary, The Cause of Our Joy!” However, there exists even more depth to explore, which is truly marvelous, considering the apparent simplicity of the title.An ancient depiction of Our Lady, often overlooked, bears a direct link to the focal point of this conference. This connection derives from the Book of Genesis, though it differs from the well-known narrative of Adam and Eve in the Garden. Rather, it is rooted in the tale of Noah, the Ark, and the Deluge. Following the abatement of the waters and Noah’s offering of gratitude and sacrifice to the Lord, He declared that His bow would rest within the clouds. Whenever He beheld the clouds and the bow, it would serve as a reminder. No longer would a cataclysmic flood engulf the world.Within the Church, this tradition perceives Our Lady assumed into Glory within that rainbow. Discover more about the correlation between this scripture and the Cause of Our Joy! Uncover insights into the dynamic presence of Our Lady and its implications for us.Our Lady Guides UsHowever, comprehending merely the title of Our Lady falls short. It is imperative to grasp how this understanding influences the embodiment of our faith and enables us to embrace the richness of the Catholic tradition. Unveil the enigma of Our Lady’s guidance, aiding us in dwelling in the presence of Our Lord. Gain insight into the impact on our spiritual journey. Reflect deeply upon these themes, which are also addressed throughout this conference.Later in the conference the following is asked of all of us. Do we appreciate who we really are, in the eyes of God? Do we really appreciate not just what He is done for us, but how He continues to shape our lives? Our Lady provides us with an example. Hear how this should help shape our own love for God and Our Lady. The Cause of OUR JOY.Lastly, we hear about the source of joyfulness. It is the source and fountain of all Christian praise of the great things the Lord has done for us! Hear how this praise should also impact our own spiritual lives. The Cause of OUR JOY.
The Significance and Dignity of Nathaniel – One of the Twelve Apostles
The Gospel recounts how Nathaniel was called by Jesus.
The Homily explains Nathaniel and the Apostle Bartholomew are one in the same person. Why two names? Listen more to the Homily to understand why!
Nathaniel is very significant, though in today’s age many know very little about him. The most important thing to know about Nathaniel is he is one of the twelve Apostles.
In the first reading (not included within this audio), we hear about the new Jerusalem coming down from Heaven. The Glory of God Himself illuminates the new city! This is the image of the Church.
We also hear about the significance and dignity of what it means to be one of the twelve Apostles. There are gates in the city by which the nations may enter. The gates bear the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. As we hear more, we understand the gates of the city rest upon something. The city does not rest on the twelve tribes of Israel. The city is founded upon the twelve Apostles.
Why is this first reading so important to us? Learn more about Nathaniel! Listen more to this Meditation Media.
Peter is the Rock Jesus Builds His Church Upon! What Does That Imply For Us?
In today’s Gospel, we witness a pivotal moment . . .
. . . where Jesus designates Simon Peter as the cornerstone upon which He intends to build His Church. Matthew 16:18 becomes a cornerstone passage that elucidates the foundation of the apostolic mission of the Church. With the words, “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it,” Jesus imparts a profound message about the enduring strength and purpose of His Church.
The significance of this declaration becomes more apparent when we examine the linguistic symbolism. The name “Peter” derives from the Greek word “Petros,” which translates to “Rock” or “Stone.” It’s a name that encapsulates the stability and solidity that a rock represents. Interestingly, the scene of this proclamation is set against a backdrop that reinforces this symbolism: an altar made of a substantial 3+-ton rock and an ambo carved from a multi-ton rock. These visual cues emphasize the weightiness and significance of the message.
. . . What Does That Imply For Us?
Beyond the physical imagery, the heart of the matter lies in the spiritual implications. Jesus’ declaration to Peter carries layers of meaning. At the surface, it signifies Peter’s foundational role in the establishment of the Church. He is the bedrock upon which the Church constructs the community of believers. This points to the importance of faith, loyalty, and dedication that Peter embodies.
Furthermore, this event serves as a reminder that Jesus’ Church is built on faith, not just Peter alone. The idea of the “powers of death” being unable to prevail underscores the enduring nature of the Church, protected by divine forces against any adversity. In essence, Jesus is entrusting Peter with a leadership role, one that encompasses the mission of guiding believers and fortifying the Church against challenges.
For us, the modern followers of Christ, this Gospel passage holds timeless wisdom. It urges us to reflect on the foundations of our own faith and the roles we play within the broader Church community. The Church prompts us to examine our commitment to the principles that the Church stands upon and consider how we can contribute to its growth and resilience. Just as Peter was chosen to be the rock, we are invited to be steadfast in our convictions and to actively participate in building the Church through our actions and beliefs.
What is Jesus telling Peter, and telling us in today’s Gospel? Listen more to this Meditation Media.
The Calling of St. Peter: Jesus Calls Us to Follow Him
This presentation took place following a three-day conference, just as the attendees were preparing to participate in a Blessed Sacrament Procession.
The discourse commences by highlighting how the Lord, on three separate occasions, beckoned Peter with the words “Follow Me.”
The First Calling The initial summons to Peter occurred after an entire night dedicated to fishing.
Peter was acquainted with Jesus, who was engaged in instructing a multitude by the shoreline. Jesus requested the use of Peter’s boat as an elevated platform to address the gathering. Despite his fatigue and physical strain, Peter consented, and alongside the crowd, he listened attentively to the Lord’s teachings. Following this discourse, Jesus suggested they resume fishing. Fatigued yet compliant, Peter embarked on another fishing venture and experienced an abundant catch. Overwhelmed by this turn of events, Peter humbled himself in awe, prompting the Lord to gaze upon this weary man and utter the words, “Follow Me.”
The Second Calling As Peter continued to accompany the Lord, a second call emerged. This call was more intricate than the first, coming after a period of devoted companionship with Jesus. It was a call that delved into the profound significance of “Following Me.” Jesus posed a seemingly simple query to his disciples: “Whom do people say that I am?” This question signaled a deeper invitation. Among the diverse responses from the disciples, Peter, the one to speak up, proclaimed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God!”
While his words were accurate, Peter’s understanding had yet to align with his proclamation. The Lord instructed him not to reveal this insight, indicating that genuine comprehension of Jesus emanates from His own words. Subsequently, Jesus elucidated His identity and foretold His impending sacrifice. Peter, stirred by concern, interjected, prompting Jesus to rebuke him. Yet, Jesus affirmed that true discipleship involves a profound commitment. This second call’s relevance to our lives is expounded upon in the presentation.
The Third Calling Following the second call, the Lord embarked on purifying Peter’s (and our) discipleship. This third and most poignant calling took place again by the waterside after a night of fruitless fishing. Jesus directed Peter to cast his nets on the opposite side of the boat, resulting in an overwhelming catch. Overwhelmed with conviction, Peter plunged into the water and swam to shore to meet the Lord, embodying a redemptive encounter following his prior denial.
On the shore, Jesus engaged Peter in a sequence of three questions, culminating in the resounding command, “Follow Me.” This trilogy of inquiries held profound significance, and their purpose is explored in the presentation. This final calling epitomizes the Lord’s instructive method, shedding light on the teachings He conveyed to Peter, which carry enduring lessons for all of us.
Commemorating the Miracle of the Snows
Today, the Church honors the Dedication of the Basilica of Mary Major in Rome.
According to tradition, during the middle of Summer, Mary miraculously outlined the location of the Church in Rome by causing it to snow. Hear about this miracle and what it is that we actually celebrate on this Feast Day.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
Unveiling the Hidden Blessings: Celebrating Joachim and Anne – The Holy Parents of Mary
Today, the Church commemorates a significant privilege, though historically it has often had not been paid much attention.
When we reflect upon the prominent figures of Israel, names like Abraham, Jacob, David, Solomon, and Moses naturally come to mind, while Joachim and Anne are curiously omitted.
Yet, within Abraham’s blessings as the father of a nation lies an even greater blessing. For what could be more profound than being the parents of the Holy Virgin Mary herself? The homily delves into the illustrious names of Israel and the blessings they brought forth. It also explores the exceptional blessings bestowed upon Joachim and Anne.
Why do we hold Abraham in great esteem? Because of the profound events that followed his life! Likewise, let us explore and celebrate Joachim and Anne, discovering the significance of their story within the homily.
Today, our celebration centers around Joachim and Anne—a special mother and father, a devoted husband and wife, and faithful children of Israel. Some may perceive commemorating a husband and wife as ordinary. Especially when compared to awe-inspiring events like Moses’ parting the Red Sea or Abraham’s miraculous wonders. Yet, there is something extraordinary hidden within the fabric of family life that we explore further, finding a deeper connection to ourselves and the essence of this marriage.
Unbeknownst to many, it was within the struggles and joys of Joachim and Anne’s marriage that something truly marvelous occurred—the birth of the Immaculate Conception. Our Lady, Mary, was conceived without original sin, a testament to the holiness of their marriage. Join us in this meditation. Listen as this media unravels the profound implications and significance of Joachim and Anne’s union in relation to the Immaculate Conception.
How Does Jesus’ Description of Heaven Impact Our Own Spirituality?
Do you grasp the profound parables that Jesus shares with us in the Gospel?
There are three parables through which Jesus paints a vivid picture of Heaven. He poses this question to His disciples, seeking to know if they comprehend these teachings. Their response was prompt, but let’s pause and reflect: do we, too, truly understand these parables?
Before delving into the parables themselves, the Homily begins by aligning the first reading with the Gospel, a reading (not included within this audio) centered around Solomon’s profound request of God. God grants Solomon’s request for a specific purpose, and it holds great importance for our own spiritual journey.
Now, the focus shifts to the three parables where Jesus enlightens the audience about Heaven. Just as He asked the disciples, Jesus is also inquiring of us: Do we genuinely comprehend the depth of these parables? And how do these timeless teachings relate to our spiritual lives?
Often in spirituality, we proclaim our beliefs. But let’s be honest – at times, our faith may have certain limitations. The Gospel presents us with an opportunity to confront our spirituality truthfully.
Listen to this thought-provoking Homily. Discover how Jesus’ profound description of Heaven can impact and enrich our own spiritual lives. Listen to this Meditation Media.
During a Recent Mass for Special Needs, We Hear the Gospel of Jesus Calling Out a Name. Hear Why That Is Important to All of Us!
In today’s gathering, we begin with some opening remarks before delving into the Gospel, which recounts the story of a thirsty Mary Magdalene. It’s intriguing how the Gospel sheds light on Mary’s yearning heart and her intense thirst for Our Lord. Typically, we don’t associate thirst with matters of the heart, and often, we don’t take time to contemplate this concept, leaving us uncertain of its true significance. However, this Homily, specially tailored for attendees with Special Needs, aims to elucidate the profound meaning behind this idea and its relevance to all of us.
Mary Magdalene serves as an inspiring example for each of us. On Easter morning, her heart longed so ardently for fulfillment that it couldn’t find complete joy until she encountered Our Lord. She cherished the Lord deeply and persistently sought Him until she finally reunited with Him. She refused to settle for anything less. But why did she possess such unwavering devotion? The Homily delves into this question, revealing its wisdom.
This story holds a valuable lesson for everyone—to discern in the depths of our hearts who and what is truly best for us. It urges us to recognize those who are genuinely good for us. Interestingly, even when Mary Magdalene saw Jesus, she initially didn’t recognize Him. Why? Because as much as she loved the Lord, as much as we love the Lord, He transcends all expectations. He desires her to comprehend this truth and conveys it by calling her name. This aspect bears significance for each one of us, and the Homily elaborates on its importance.
Let us grasp the essence of the Gospel: the profound significance when Jesus calls out a name. Discover why this holds importance for all of us. Listen to this Special Meditation Media.
Note to the listener of this Special Audio.
The Homily revolves around the significance of Jesus addressing Mary Magdalene by her name, highlighting the personal nature of such interaction. It further explores how Jesus calls each of us by name, emphasizing the individual and intimate relationship with Him. After the Homily during the Mass, attendees were invited to inscribe the names of those in need of special prayers, including individuals with specific needs and their caregivers.
Each attendee wrote these names on the back of a cross, and they were later recited aloud and attached to Our Lady. During the communal recitation of the Hail Mary, the act symbolizes Our Lady’s recollection of the angel addressing her as “Hail Full of Grace.” As the community prays, Our Lady also joins in and intercedes for all the names offered to her, forwarding these prayers to God Our Father in Heaven.
Although the reading of the names during the original Mass lasted nearly 30 minutes, only a condensed version of about 60 seconds is presented in this audio. As you participate in the prayer, you are encouraged to visualize Our Lady using the images on the web page. Feel free to add the names of your loved ones whom you wish to pray for virtually and then join the community in collective prayer to Our Lady and God.
For more information about the events at the Shrine and to receive updates, please get in touch with the Shrine’s office.
Why was Mary Magdalene Chosen by the Lord to be the Apostle to the Apostle?
The Church places a significant emphasis on celebrating the life and example of St. Mary Magdalene.
She holds a unique role as the first to proclaim the Resurrection of the Lord even before the Apostles, making her the “Apostle to the Apostles,” a title given to her by the early Church fathers. Mary Magdalene was not sent to the world, but the Lord sent her specifically to the Apostles and the Church.
In today’s Gospel, one may wonder why she was chosen to be at the tomb on that particular day. The answer lies in the fact that the Lord called and spoke to her, and then entrusted her with the task of announcing His victory to the Apostles. Other people were present at the tomb that morning but did not experience the same encounter with the Lord that Mary Magdalene did. But why did the Lord call her?
The reason behind her special role might be connected to her heart’s genuine love and deep desire to seek the One she loved. This longing to be close to the object of her heart’s affection led her to have a unique encounter with the resurrected Lord. For further insights and interpretation of this scripture, one can listen to the Homily and the Meditation Media titled “Why was Mary Magdalene Chosen by the Lord to be the Apostle to the Apostle?”
The Followers of Jesus Are Distinguished By Their Hearts
The scriptures convey a twofold meaning in today’s context, and it is crucial to grasp this idea to fully comprehend the Gospel.
In today’s Gospel, we encounter the parable of the Sower, who sows seeds in various types of soil: shallow, rocky, weedy, and fertile.
However, there is a second, less apparent type of sowing discussed by the Lord – the sowing of one’s heart. Understanding both forms of sowing is the key, and the Homily can shed light on these teachings.
A vast crowd gathers to hear the Lord, necessitating Him to stand on a boat to address everyone. Ironically, despite the crowd’s presence, the Lord speaks in parables because they fail to truly listen. This irony is explored further in the Homily.
Although the crowd hears the words, many do not comprehend their meaning. Later, the disciples inquire why Jesus speaks in parables, to which He responds that the people hear but do not truly listen. Their ears work fine, but the words do not penetrate their hearts. The Homily delves deeper into this issue.
Jesus continues His conversation with the disciples, explaining that they have been granted understanding of the kingdom’s mysteries, while the crowd has not. This is not due to the Lord withholding grace from the crowd, but because those who have committed themselves to Christ and opened their hearts can both hear and comprehend. For them, listening begins from the heart.
A notable difference emerges between the crowd and the disciples. The crowd does not seek an explanation of the parables, which would indicate genuine listening, unlike the disciples who actively seek deeper understanding.
Listen more to: The Followers of Jesus Are Distinguished By Their Hearts. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Lord Tells Us Who We Really Are!
The Lord Tells Us . . .
Today’s Homily revolves around Moses, emphasizing the significance of understanding how scripture begins.
In the first reading (not included in this audio), we learn that Moses is married to the daughter of a priest, and at this point, he is not actively seeking God. Instead, he is devoted to taking care of his family and tending to his flock of sheep, much like a shepherd.
One day, while leading his father-in-law’s flock to the mountain of God, Moses unknowingly embarks on a journey that will eventually lead him to be entrusted with a people by God. It is interesting to note that Moses wasn’t actively searching for holiness at this moment; he was simply fulfilling his daily responsibilities.
When Moses encounters the burning bush on the mountain, it is the Lord who signals and calls out to him. Moses, curious and intrigued, moves closer to investigate. Only then does the Lord speak to him, revealing His identity and purpose.
. . . Who We Really Are! It becomes evident that Moses lacks a profound knowledge of God. This proves to be of utmost importance for him and also holds significance for us. As the Homily further explores this story, we gain insights into its impact on our own spiritual journey.
Interestingly, the Lord’s calling of Moses was triggered by someone else’s call upon the Lord. This underscores that Moses’ relationship with God is not a private matter but revolves around the Lord’s people. This connection between mission and relationship with the Lord reflects our own relationship as well, which will be elaborated on within the Homily.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
At Least I Am Not As Bad As That Town! Jesus Takes That Comparison Away from Us!
Today, we are urged to focus our attention on the Gospel, despite its challenging words.
The Lord reproves those who should know Him best, a message that applies to us as well.
Within the Gospel, the Lord criticizes the towns where He spent a significant amount of time and where remarkable events and healings occurred. Even during Jesus’ adult life, these towns were central to His ministry. Let us heed the words the Lord uses for these towns.
However, the Lord’s criticism is not limited to those specific towns; it extends to our present world and the Church we attend regularly. The Lord resides in the tabernacle, and in many ways, we should be among those who know Jesus best. Therefore, we must contemplate the significance of the Gospel for each of us individually and collectively.
The Lord removes any comparisons we may make to measure our spirituality against others. Even if we think we are not as bad as the people of a particular town in today’s world, the Lord reminds us that those in other towns will fare better than us unless we repent.
The message for today may be challenging, yet it holds paramount importance for all of us. Let us refrain from dismissing it with the thought that “at least we are not that bad.” Instead, let us embrace the difficulty and significance of the Gospel. Tune in to this Meditation Media and listen attentively.
I Am, Who Am! What is God Telling Us When He Tells Moses His Name?
In the first reading (not included within this audio), we experience the profound encounter between Moses and God at the burning bush.
Moses has been chosen for a mission to free his people in Egypt, but he is unsure about how to refer to God when he speaks to the Hebrews and Egyptians. Surprisingly, despite the Hebrews’ long history with God, they seem to have lost a deeper understanding of Him.
The Scripture reminds us that while God remains faithful to His covenant forever, His people often forget their relationship with Him. This serves as an essential lesson for us. Not only can worldly pleasures lead us astray, but even hardships can distance us from knowing God.
Interestingly, during tough times, some turn to God, while others turn away. God’s title as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob emphasizes His enduring connection with individuals even before their birth.
Moses is still in need of a name to call God, and God responds intriguingly, saying, “I Am, Who Am!” This enigmatic name holds deep significance and invites us to contemplate its meaning.
For a more in-depth understanding of what God is conveying through this name, it is suggested to listen further in this Meditation Media.
Unveiling the True Essence of the Sabbath: Jesus’ Message for Our Spiritual Journey
When one attentively studies the scriptures, they encounter two distinct yet complementary statements about the origin and significance of the Sabbath.
The homily delves into the concept of resting on the seventh day, as God did after completing creation, signifying a rest from the goodness of the work accomplished during the previous six days.
Moving forward in the scriptures, we find Moses speaking about the Sabbath. He reminds the people that they were once slaves, deprived of rest, but now the Lord declares that they should not enslave themselves to endless labor without rest. It is a call to rest not only in the goodness of their work but also in the goodness of salvation. The Homily expands on this theme.
Furthermore, the Gospel narrative portrays Jesus and His hungry disciples walking through a grain field. The disciples pick grain to eat, prompting the Pharisees to question Jesus about this act. Here, irony surfaces as the Pharisees claim to follow the Lord’s will through the Law but attempt to correct Jesus, questioning His disciples’ actions.
This irony is not uncommon in the spiritual life. Many desire to follow the Lord, yet they often attempt to direct Him, showing a lack of true submission in their spiritual journey. Reflecting on this, we come to understand the deeper meaning of the Sabbath and its significance in our spiritual life, which Jesus explains to the Pharisees. For a more in-depth understanding of this topic, you can explore the Meditation Media further.
The Lord Invites His Disciples to a Stormy Place To Teach Us All Something
Today is a day that we give thanks.
Today is a day of gratitude. On this day, we not only pray for our country but also express gratitude to God for it. This context is crucial as it sets the stage for today’s readings and scriptures. We give thanks for what has been accomplished and pray for what is yet to be achieved.
God Proclaims the Power of Goodness!
In the first reading (not included in this audio), we learn about the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. One might question why the Church selected this reading on a day when we celebrate our country. The reason is that there is an important lesson to learn. Mercy and justice go hand in hand in the eyes of the Lord.
Mercy cannot exist without a framework within which it can be extended. That framework is judgment. Without consequences or punishment, the concept loses its meaning. To comprehend mercy, we must recognize that God’s judgment applies not only to individuals but also to nations. This holds great significance for our country. Discover more in the Homily.
The Lord Invites His Disciples to a Stormy Place to Teach Us All Something
In today’s Gospel reading, we encounter the disciples and Jesus in the midst of a storm. Jesus is asleep while the disciples fearfully face the raging waves that threaten to capsize their boat.
The scene may appear peculiar. Jesus boards a boat, and the disciples follow Him. He then lies down and falls asleep. Sometimes our spiritual journey can resemble this scene. We strive to follow the Lord, yet it seems as if He is nowhere to be found… as if He has fallen asleep. Find further insights in the Homily.
Throughout the story, we learn about the profound peace that the Lord possesses, a peace that remains undisturbed by all the storms in the world. What does this mean for our own spiritual lives? Explore more in the Homily.
Listen to this Meditation Media to delve deeper into the reasons behind the Lord’s invitation of His disciples to a stormy place, teaching us all a valuable lesson.
Jacob’s Blessing, Montfort Tells Us, Parallels Our Devotion to Our Blessed Mother
In the first reading (not included within this audio), we hear about brothers Esau and Jacob.
These brothers are the children of Isaac, the son of Abraham. In the Homily we hear more about Esau, who loved hunting. We also hear about his character. One of his characteristics was he was not always pleasing to his mother. He was an outdoorsman, who hunted and wandered the lands.
Jacob was a gentle boy, in complete contrast to Esau. He was always at home and was always ready to listen to the advice of his mother. He does what his mother tells him.
Esau also enjoyed his food. He ate a lot. One day he asked his brother for food, as he was very hungry. Esau will give anything for a bit of food. He gave up his birth right to obtain the food. The story, at first glance, may appear as just a story of little consequence to us. But this is not the case if it is explored deeply. Montfort teaches us about this story . . . the life of the chosen one. The life of the elect. The life of those that are chosen because of their love of Our Blessed Mother. This story parallels Our Devotion To Our Lady, Montfort tells us.
This story also tells us about the senile, and those that will lose their blessings, that in a real sense was meant for them.
Listen to this story of Esau and Jacob and how Jacob’s Blessing, Montfort Tells Us, Parallels Our Devotion to Our Blessed Mother. Listen to this Meditation Media and Homily.
Fr. Jacob Otieno, SMM, is a Montfort Missionary priest from Kenya, and he graciously offers his Gospel reflections. He is currently visiting the shrines of the Company of Mary located in Connecticut and on Long Island. The Company of Mary is actively working towards establishing a shrine in Kenya and has expressed a desire to study the Marian Shrines in the United States as part of their preparations. The forthcoming shrine’s name in Kenya is Our Lady of Peace.
Jesus Tells Us: Have a Humble Heart
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us to have a humble heart.
In the reading and in the Gospel, God teaches us about humility. Jesus humbled Himself so that we may be raised up as sons and daughters of God. Jesus wants us also to be humble. Hear more within the Homily.
He also teaches us a lesson. In the Gospel, Jesus talks about revealing the secrets of Heaven to the little ones, and not the learned. Who are the little ones? We hear about the characteristics of the little ones. Jesus tells us we should emulate the actions of little children. What did He mean by that? Hear more within the Homily.
In the Homily, we hear about two people on a train. We hear one is angry, then realizes she was wrong. She should have been thankful to the man on the train. Hear how this story should impact our Spiritual Journey. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Fr. Jacob Otieno, SMM, is a Montfort Missionary priest from Kenya, graciously offers his Gospel reflections. He is currently visiting the shrines of the Company of Mary located in Connecticut and on Long Island. The Company of Mary is actively working towards establishing a shrine in Kenya and has expressed a desire to study the Marian Shrines in the United States as part of their preparations. The forthcoming shrine’s name in Kenya is Our Lady of Peace.
Do Not Let Your Left Hand Know What Your Right Hand is Doing! Jesus Teaches Us a Lesson!
In today’s Gospel Jesus tells us how to be charitable, how to pray and how to fast.
Those that do it for show or for the benefits of making themselves known, they have already received their rewards. Listen to the words Jesus tells us within this Homily!
Jesus insists on reality. But the heart of man loves appearances. The Lord tells us . . . His disciples . . . to be careful of the “masks we try to wear”. Beginning with Adam, man turns to false goodness. What does that mean for us? Listen to this Homily.
Do Not Let Your Left Hand Know What Your Right Hand is Doing! Understand what the title actually means for our spiritual journey. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Sharing in the Life of Jesus: What Does That Actually Mean and Why is it So Great?
The fundamental essence of the Christian life revolves around participating in the life of Jesus Christ.
This profound gift is bestowed upon us through Holy Baptism, wherein we not only become members of the Church but also have our sins washed away. Describing these two truths as merely “simple” might seem peculiar because they are, in fact, incredibly significant. These transformative experiences occur due to the divine intervention of the Holy Spirit, enabling us to share in the life of Jesus. It is truly awe-inspiring. Discover more insights within this Homily.
Through this intimate connection, we echo the words of St. Paul, who proclaimed, ““It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me”. Both St. Paul and Jesus Himself, as depicted in today’s Gospel reading, emphasize this profound reality. Gain a deeper understanding of St. Paul’s teachings in this Homily.
Take a moment to contemplate what it truly means to share in the life of Jesus. Immerse yourself in this Meditation Media and delve into its profound implications.
Jeremiah and Our Lady Offer Models in Faith: Do Not Be Afraid
In today’s Gospel, we are presented with the Lord sending out his disciples and Apostles to proclaim the Word.
The Lord warns them about the challenges they will face, including persecution. Let us pay attention to the instructions the Lord gives to the Apostles in this Homily.
The first reading, which is not included in this audio, focuses on God’s call to the Prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah faithfully conveys the truth revealed to him by God to the people of Israel. Unfortunately, Israel had forgotten God’s teachings and had turned to worshiping idols. Jeremiah urgently reminds them to turn away from false gods and worship the one true God. He warns Israel that due to their rejection of God, they will face the consequences of war and capture by their enemies.
During this time, false prophets and priests mislead the people, advising them not to heed Jeremiah’s message. Undeterred, Jeremiah insists that Israel must change their ways or face destruction. As a result of his boldness, Jeremiah is seized, beaten, and held captive. Let us try to empathize with Jeremiah’s feelings during this challenging period. His faith serves as a model for us, which we can reflect upon in this Homily.
Furthermore, the Homily touches upon the faith model of Our Lady. By listening attentively, we can learn how the faith of Mary should influence our own. We encourage you to engage with this Meditation Media and delve deeper into the lessons presented.
Fr. Jacob Otieno, SMM, is a Montfort Missionary priest from Kenya, graciously offers his Gospel reflections. He is currently visiting the shrines of the Company of Mary located in Connecticut and on Long Island. The Company of Mary is actively working towards establishing a shrine in Kenya and has expressed a desire to study the Marian Shrines in the United States as part of their preparations. The forthcoming shrine’s name in Kenya is Our Lady of Peace. The second picture on the website post shows Fr. Jacob during his Homily.
The Power of Hospitality Helps Reveal the Will of God for St. Anthony
Today, the Church commemorates the feast of St. Anthony, originally named Ferdinand.
Ferdinand embarked on his religious journey as a member of the Augustinian community in Portugal. Hear about the pleasant distraction presented to Ferdinand within the Homily. Learn about the Lord’s call to Ferdinand’s heart in seeking out the things of Heaven.
The Homily further delves into the life of St. Anthony, shedding light on his character. On multiple occasions, this humble servant extended his hospitality by hosting and aiding others, thereby revealing God’s will through his actions. Within the Homily, there is more to discover.
As St. Anthony nears the end of his earthly existence, he becomes renowned for something extraordinary. How many of you have uttered this prayer: “Anthony, Anthony, please come around. Something is lost and needs to be found”? Have you ever sought solace in this prayer? This invocation, in various forms, has been recited for centuries.
But how did it originate? The invocation of this prayer is not just for lost objects alone. It also encompasses lost souls. By listening to the Homily, one can uncover more details about this remarkable incident and the significance of this prayer. Listen to this Meditation Media.
God’s Decision For You!
The Homily commences by delving into St. Paul’s teachings regarding God’s Decision For You! Understand this as the Homily unravels this subject.
The Homily was delivered on Father’s Day. Distinguished fathers share a common trait – they also make a decision. Discover more within the Homily.
Lastly, a Blessing is bestowed upon St. Joseph, the Patron of the Church and the Patron of Fatherhood. In addition, a Blessing is extended to all fathers. Delve further into this Meditation Media to learn more.
The Eighth Husband and the Bride: How the Book of Tobit Echoes the Story of Jesus and His Church
Listen to how the Book of Tobit unveils the narrative of Jesus and His Church.
During the readings before the Gospel this week, we encountered passages from the Book of Tobit. But what is the significance of these readings to the Church? Why are they held in such high regard? Please note that the first reading is not included in this audio.
The Church intends to impart a lesson to us through these readings. It goes beyond simply recounting the trials faced by a family from ancient times. In the Homily, we learn about an angel, Tobit, Tobias, and Sarah. Both Tobit and Sarah are afflicted, and through their prayers, an angel comes to assist them in their struggles.
Sarah has been married seven times, and tragically, all her previous husbands were killed on their wedding day. Tobias becomes her eighth husband. The number seven holds significant symbolism in Scripture, representing fullness, and the Homily provides multiple examples of this. Tobias, as the eighth husband, also carries significance as the number eight is likewise employed throughout Scripture, such as in Octaves. The Homily delves into greater detail on this topic.
While following the unfolding of this story, it is crucial not to overlook why the Church considers it so important. It is not merely a tale of a family presenting itself before us. In Scripture, there are seven great men, seven great patriarchs: Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and David. All these men served as vessels of God for all of humanity, propelling progress forward. However, they eventually passed away without establishing a complete union between God and His people.
Then came the eighth great one—Jesus Christ. The Church is represented as the bride, and Jesus is the groom. Take note of how the Book of Tobit relates to the unfolding story of Jesus and His Church. The Church holds the Book of Tobit in incredibly high esteem; it is not solely about a family from centuries ago. Listen to this Meditation Media for further insights.
The Lesson of the Widow’s Mite or the Widow’s Offering
In the Gospel reading, Jesus teaches and speaks in the Temple shortly before His Passion. The focal point of the Gospel story is the widow’s mite or offering. Despite contributing only two small coins, the widow’s gift surpasses that of everyone else.
During the Homily, we also learn about the first reading from the Book of Tobit, which is not included in the audio. Tobit, a charitable and devout man who lived in the early 700s B.C., dedicated himself to serving God (further details are explained within the Homily). The story emphasizes that while prayer and fasting are commendable, alms giving is even more significant. The Homily provides a deeper context for this statement.
The Tobit story holds a lesson for us, one that extends beyond the mere quantity of our charitable contributions on any given day. The book teaches us multiple lessons, including the importance of God’s mercy towards us and our responsibility to show mercy and charity to those who are less fortunate. Another lesson is the transformative power of charity. The Homily delves into further discussions on these lessons.
The Gospel story carries a poignant message. It portrays religious leaders who are preoccupied with their reputation, dressing in long robes and seeking recognition and honor at banquets. They desire to be noticed and appreciated by others. However, the Lord cautions against such behavior. While observing people’s contributions to the Temple, the Lord focuses on an important moment. Wealthy individuals come forward and give substantial amounts, but then a widow steps forward. Despite being vulnerable and having limited resources, she, who should be the recipient of charity, offers her own contribution to the Lord. She is aware of others giving large sums, but this doesn’t discourage her. She believes she has something to give and proceeds to do so, regardless of what others contribute.
What lesson does Jesus impart to His disciples? Find out more within the Mediation Media.
Jesus and the Roman Coin
Jesus is approached by the Pharisees and asks Jesus if it is lawful to pay the Roman tax.
This takes place shortly before the Lord enters His passion. Jesus knows what will happen, yet He asks for the coin. Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and give to God what belongs to God. The Pharisees do not want to learn from Him, but to trap Him. As is often the case when someone wishes ill will on another, they begin with flattery.
Hear again the story of Jesus and the Roman Coin. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Take note of the unmistakable emphasis in Jesus’ voice during the Gospel reading.
When the Lord speaks of the profound mysteries we commemorate today… and indeed, the sacrament we partake in during Mass… His words carry an unwavering insistence. The Lord presents a clear-cut choice before each of us: either believe in Him or do not. These are the only two options available. You can learn more about this in the Homily.
The Lord tells us that unless we partake of His flesh and blood, we will not have eternal life. During the Last Supper, Jesus instructs us about the ongoing memorial for our salvation. He says, “Do this in memory of Me!” It is not merely a request; it is a command directed at the Apostles and His Church.
Reflect upon the significance of what we celebrate on this momentous occasion and every time we attend Mass. Listen to this Meditation Media for further insights.
Live for Wisdom: Live for Jesus The way of living that the Lord presents to us brings a certain joy to our hearts.In the first reading, which is not included in this audio, we learn about someone who highly values God’s Wisdom and devotes themselves to seeking it, even to the point of experiencing torment in the pursuit. It may seem strange that there is torment despite the presence of joy. If it brings joy, why is there torment?Have you ever felt genuine thirst or hunger? When your throat is parched and burning, you desperately seek water to alleviate the pain. However, there is a certain torment that accompanies this experience—the agony of needing and lacking. This is the torment referred to in the first reading.But let’s consider the nature of this torment. Just like a deep thirst, the author of the first reading is saying, “That’s how my heart feels. That’s my mind. That’s my spirit without your Wisdom, Lord! I am hungry and thirsty like that, desiring to know how to live rightly.” It is essential for us to grasp the spiritual significance of this. You can learn more about it in the Homily.When I discover Wisdom, it transforms me. It is a more profound relief than the splash of water on a parched throat because now I realize that I am no longer in need. The joy of possessing Wisdom fills me.However, merely searching for Wisdom is not sufficient. Merely finding Wisdom is not enough. One must live according to Wisdom. But how can we do that? Listen to this meditation media called “Live for Wisdom: Live for Jesus” io gain a deeper understanding.
Prayer on Behalf of the Synod Around the globe, numerous dioceses have organized Synods to engage both religious leaders and the laity in discussions on various topics.These Synods also take place at a national level. Later this year, Bishops, priests, and members of the laity will gather in Rome to deliberate upon the outcomes of these Synods.Consequently, the Bishops have requested prayers, specifically at Marian Shrines. In response to this appeal, a special prayer has been formulated to seek the protection and guidance of Our Lady over these Synods.To gain further insight, you can listen to a seven-minute audio clip. The initial segment, approximately three minutes long, offers a detailed explanation, while the second half features the recitation of the prayer. If you wish to follow along with the prayer, the QoAH's website / post has the text.
The Conclusion of St. John's Gospel: Insights and ReflectionsNote the Gospel’s beginning today, which includes . . . a reading from the conclusion of . . . These words mark the end of the Gospel of St. John. As we are about to celebrate Pentecost Sunday, the Church also draws closer to the conclusion of the Easter Season. Similarly, the season of the Resurrection is reaching its end. Further insights on this matter can be found in the Homily.It is crucial to grasp the Gospel’s conclusion as well. Essentially, it states that the Gospel itself is concluded but intentionally remains incomplete. St. John informs us that there is numerous other things Jesus has done, which he does not disclose. Why? Because he wants to provide us with a framework for understanding how to approach the Gospel in the first place.Although the Gospels contain historical content, they are not meant to be treated as history books. While they include details about the life of Jesus, they are not biographies attempting to satisfy every hunger for minute particulars. Their completeness lies in conveying the truth of the mystery, the life, and the actions of God in Jesus, enabling us to receive, comprehend, and believe in them.Listen more to this Homily. Listen to The Conclusion of St. John’s Gospel: Insights and Reflections. Feel free to explore more of this thought-provoking Meditation Media segment.
Pentecost: The Church’s Gathering in the Upper Room, . . .Traditionally, in certain regions, Pentecost Sunday is referred to as White Sunday.But wait, why is it called White Sunday when priests wear red and the Holy Spirit, symbolized by fire and the color red, is honored? The explanation for this can be found in the first part of the Homily.Pentecost Sunday is a day of miracles. Many Christians are familiar with the story of the Apostles being understood by people of all languages. However, the miracle was not that the Apostles spoke in multiple tongues. The true miracle lay in the act of hearing. Despite the presence of numerous cultures and languages, the people heard and understood the message spoken by the Apostles. So, what does this miracle signify? What possibilities did it enable? Discover more insights within the Homily.. . . Preceding its Mission to Proclaim to the Ends of the EarthIt is worth noting the parallels between Easter and Pentecost. On Easter Sunday, the resurrection was not witnessed by anyone; not even a select few had that privilege. Why? Because it pleased God to send the Apostles to spread the news of the Lord’s victory throughout the world. Although human eyes did not witness His rising, they will witness His victory through His Church. Delve deeper into these parallels in the Homily.Pentecost Sunday marks the birth of the Church. Pentecost: The Church’s Gathering in the Upper Room, Preceding its Mission to Proclaim to the Ends of the Earth. Further contemplation on this topic can be found in the accompanying Meditation Media.Editor’s Note: During the Homily, it was mentioned that a special prayer would be offered, along with its background. This prayer and its context have been isolated into a separate audio file.
The Ascension: Humanity Also Rises to Heaven! Understand the Implications! Many members of the Body of Christ fail to appreciate the immense greatness of the Ascension’s mystery.After 40 days since Easter Sunday, we find ourselves immersed in the context of this significant day, symbolizing a triumph over death. In the Gospel, we witness the disciples grappling with doubt as they yearn to believe in and fully comprehend the Resurrection. Interestingly, the early Church acknowledged the disciples’ doubts and even considered them worthy of gratitude. It was through this doubt that the Lord provided compelling evidence of His victory. Find further insight on this matter in the Homily.During this celebration, we not only honor the Lord’s ascent to His rightful place at the right hand of God, but we also commemorate humanity’s elevation to Heaven alongside Him. What does this signify? It signifies that humanity’s true abode is in the realm of heaven, not rooted in earthly matters. Our ultimate home lies in the heavenly realm.The Feast of the Ascension embodies a paradox. Although the Lord departs from our physical presence, He remains with us. As the eternal God who never left heaven, He dwelled among us as a human being. His ascent to heaven does not signify His abandonment of us but rather His continuous presence. To delve deeper into this enigma, listen further to this Homily.Our Lady’s Three Titles Referring to This Period Between the Ascension and PentecostListen to the three titles of Our Lady referring to this period between the Ascension and Pentecost. Lear more within the Homily.The Ascension IconHear the description of a remarkable art icon depicting the Ascension, believed to have originated around the sixth century. The image portrays the Lord adorned in a radiant garment, symbolizing the unity of His divinity and humanity. He is seated upon His throne, surrounded by angels who sound their trumpets. The disciples gather around Our Lady in this depiction. For more details about this captivating icon, which you can observe on this page, I encourage you to listen further.Listen to this conference on the Ascension, where you will gain additional insights on the topic of Humanity Also Ascending to Heaven.
The Ascension: Humanity Also Rises to Heaven! Understand the Implications! Today’s mystery is intriguing in several ways. In the Gospel, we encounter the Mystery of the Ascension, where Jesus must go and ascend to Heaven, while simultaneously claiming to be always present. Delve deeper into the homily to explore these seemingly contradictory statements made by Jesus.Forty days have passed since the Resurrection, and the Gospel narrates the physical ascension of Jesus to heaven. Take a moment to contemplate this powerful image, as the homily further explores its significance and implications.As Jesus ascends to Heaven, humanity ascends with Him. This realization carries great importance. Through the Incarnation, the Lord assumes our humanity in bodily form, undergoes physical suffering and death, and rises in His body during the Resurrection. Now, as the Lord ascends to Heaven, He takes humanity along with Him. What does this mean for us?Take the time to listen to the thought-provoking discourse titled “The Ascension: Humanity Also Rises to Heaven! Understand the Implications!” available in this Meditation Media.
The Beauty, Goodness and Dignity of Womanhood Today’s Gospel is both beautiful and mysterious.Jesus talks about the gift of having another advocate. The first and last lines of the Gospel are particularly significant, as the Lord emphasizes that loving Him means obeying His commandments. However, He is not looking for mere compliance; rather, He seeks a deeper and more vital embrace of His teachings. More on this topic can be found in the Homily.On Mother’s Day, the Homily explores the writings of St. Teresa of Ávila, a saint who lived over five centuries ago. This saint wrote about living a spiritual and fulfilling life. The Lord asks us to love Him and keep His commandments, inviting us to surrender our hearts to Him out of His love for us. As we grow older, we love our mothers not just for what they do for us, but also for who they are. Similarly, Jesus speaks to us about this kind of love. The Homily delves into these ideas in greater detail.Additionally, the Homily includes a reading on the beauty, goodness, and dignity of womanhood, with a passage from scripture dating back nearly three thousand years. There is a special blessing for all mothers listening to the Homily, as we celebrate Mother’s Day. Please listen to the Meditation for the Week to learn more.
The One Place in Scripture, Jesus Tells Us What He Thinks of His MotherThe One Place in Scripture, . . . When God created the earth, He spoke the word and it came into existence. He declared the Light and the creatures of the earth good. God’s words have the power to make things happen, and when He created man and woman, it was very good. However, mankind falls into darkness when they stop listening to God in their hearts. Learn more about this in the Homily.. . . Jesus Tells Us What He Thinks of His MotherIn the Gospel of St. Luke, we discover Jesus’ thoughts about His mother, which is the only place in scripture where He reveals them. When a woman praises Jesus’ mother, He corrects her and says that blessed are those who hear and keep the word of God. Jesus wants the best for His mother, and He loves to hear her praised as any good son would. Understand the significance of Jesus’ words by listening to the meditation media titled “The One Place in Scripture, Jesus Tells Us What He Thinks of His Mother.”The Three Great Moments that Changes the Fate of the WorldDuring this Homily, the Three Great Moments That Changes the Fate of the World is also discussed. Listen to these three moments and meditate on these words.
On the Feast of Fatima: Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart: What It Truly MeansWhen we reflect on the events that took place at Fatima and the devotion to Our Lady associated with it, several things immediately come to mind. These include the Miracle of the Sun, the three young shepherd children, the apparitions and messages, and the title of Our Lady of the Rosary. Another term that is often mentioned, but not well understood, is the Immaculate Heart of Mary. What does this term actually mean in the context of the Consecration to Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart?The Image of the Immaculate Heart of MaryThere are two approaches to understanding the mystery of Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart. The first involves examining depictions of Mary’s Heart. One such image portrays her Heart encircled by white roses, aflame, and pierced by a sword – this is the image of the Sorrowful and Immaculate Heart of Mary. If we remove the sword from the picture, we are left with the image of the Immaculate Heart of Our Lady.The second approach delves deeper into the spiritual significance of the Immaculate Heart. On the Feast Day of Fatima, this Spiritual Insight offers further explanation on the Immaculate Heart of Our Lady.
You Know the Way! How Does This Statement from Jesus Impact Our Spiritual Life? There are some Gospels that are difficult to understand what Jesus is saying. In today’s Gospel, during His speaking to His disciples, Jesus says . . . why don’t you understand? At times it may seem it is a simple message . . . but only for Jesus and not His disciples!Today’s interchange between Jesus and His disciples there are a number of powerful truths. The conversation takes place at the Last Supper. Jesus is about to lay down His life . . . for our salvation. And He speaks of going away and their (the disciples’) inability to follow after Him . . . right now! He tells them and us . . . Be Not Afraid. Listen to how our fear fills the Human Heart. Hear more about faith. Hear more in the Homily.Jesus tells His disciples . . . and us . . . to put your faith in Him. Jesus is going away to prepare a place . . . for you! Wow! For you! But you cannot follow now. Why? Jesus tells His disciples that their hearts are not ready for all of this! They are not ready to follow Him . . . yet . . . to Heaven.Listen to the truths Jesus tells us. Listen to You Know the Way. Understand how this should impact our Spiritual Life. Listen to this Meditation Media.
I Will Raise Him Up on the Last Day! What Does That Mean For Us? How can I understand if no one instructs me?In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear this statement in reference to the scriptures. We do not hear that one completely understands the scripture. Furthermore, we do not hear that I will interpret the scripture according to my understanding and knowledge! We hear the statement above. Understand the context of this statement and its importance to us . . . within the Homily.The Church has the proclamation of the Gospel and scripture within the context of Mass. Why? Because we all need to be instructed in the words of God. We all must learn how to submit our minds to the will of God. It is Christ that makes all scripture clear. Hear more within the Homily.In today’s Gospel we hear an amazing statement by Jesus. No one can come to Me (Jesus) unless the Father Who sent Me draws him to Me. And I will raise him up on the last day.What does that mean? Jesus tells us He will give to us eternal life. Jesus speaks of His upcoming Resurrection.Listen to I Will Raise Him Up on the Last Day! What Does That Mean For Us? Listen to The Bread of Life. Hear more in this Meditation Media.
Lord, Where Else Would We Go? You Have the Words of Eternal Life! In today’s Gospel, there is an exchange between Jesus and His disciples.The Gospel is part of the Bread of Life. In the exchange, someone says . . . this saying is hard. Who can accept it?This statement about the preaching of Jesus is with us for the last two thousand years. In our world, especially today, there is a tendency to believe that we can choose what to believe. We may believe that we can focus on those things of God that work for me. Wow!By thinking this way . . . we may think it is natural. So much so, we miss the arrogance of thinking this way. This leads us to tell God what we will and won’t accept from Him. It leads us to decide what we will and will not do when He speaks to me! Listen more within the Homily.This teaching is hard . . . who can accept it? The Lord’s teachings have led to this moment of decision for those that have been living with . . . believing in . . . and following the Lord. Some will choose to accept the difficult teachings. Some others will not. In doing so, they decide to turn away from the Lord.Lord, where else would we go? You have the words of eternal life! Listen to this Meditation Media.
How Well Do We Know The Voice of The Good Shepherd? The sheep follow the shepherd because they know his voice.The Church asks this day, how well do we know the voice of the Good Shepherd? How well do we know the voice of Jesus Christ?It’s a simple, but an important question. How well do we know His voice? How do we single out His voice between all the other voices within the world? How do we recognize the voice of Jesus?Listen to this Meditation Media.
Pilgrimages: Their Impact on Saint Louis de Montfort’s and Our Spiritual Life On this day the Church celebrates Saint Louis de Montfort.This conference was given at a Shrine. Shrines were important to Fr. de Montfort. That fact is largely neglected when one speaks about him. One cannot fully understand Fr. de Montfort and his mission without understanding what pilgrimages mean to him.Pilgrimage is largely misunderstood by the world today, especially in the United States. On Thanksgiving we celebrate the day and the pilgrims but disconnect the idea from pilgrimages. Understand what a pilgrimage really is. Understand how it impacts your Spiritual Life. Appreciate the impact of a Pilgrimage.Listen to Pilgrimages: Their Impact on Saint Louis de Montfort’s and Our Spiritual Life. Listen more to the Homily.
Understand What Prevents Us From Recognizing God’s Blessing, Grace, Nearness and Goodness! The Paschal candle is one of the important symbols of Easter.This fact is also illustrated in today’s Gospel. It is positioned between the ambo and the altar. It sheds light. Understand its symbol and its importance. Hear more within the Homily.In today’s first reading (not included within this audio), Peter talks about the words of scripture and the Psalms. In today’s Gospel, the Road to Emmaus, Jesus does the same and explains the scripture and the prophets.Peter speaks to the religious leaders. He tells them that Jesus is the one that is victorious over death. Peter also says that to reject Jesus is to reject God. He says this not to accuse of them of the events that led to the crucifixion, but to re-orient themselves. If they accept Jesus, they will be able to know and be able to live according to the will of God. Hear more within the Homily.Jesus and The Road to EmmausThe Gospel takes place on Easter Sunday. It’s been a few weeks after Easter, but we are still on Easter Sunday in the Gospel. The story of the Road to Emmaus, in a way, can be like our spiritual life. Jesus is right next to these two men, even though the men do not recognize Him. The Lord often has a blessing, a grace, a nearness and a goodness that might be next to us. But we are unable to recognize it . . . like the men in the Gospel. What prevents them? What prevents us from recognizing it?Understand What Prevents Us From Recognizing God’s Blessing, Grace, Nearness and Goodness! Hear more about the Road to Emmaus. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Peter’s Trusting the Lord Who Rose From the Dead The Holy Spirit is present throughout the Easter season’s readings.The Easter season begins on Easter and ends with Pentecost Sunday. Pentecost is part of the Easter season . . . and marks the end of the season. It is not a separate celebration. There is a connection between the Resurrection of the Lord (His Victory on The Cross) and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on His Church on Pentecost Sunday. Together, they form a unified mystery. Hear more within the Homily.In today’s Gospel we hear that Jesus does not ration the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Why would He ration? What does that statement really mean? Hear more within the Homily.In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear the religious leaders once again bring the disciples to the court. This takes place after Peter’s miraculous freedom from the jail with the help of an angel. The court once again threatens them for speaking in the name of Jesus.Peter says to the court that you place me in an interesting spot. I either listen to the court because of your threat, or I keep trusting the Lord who rose from the dead. Note how powerful this idea is as Peter converses with the religious leaders.Listen to Peter’s Trusting the Lord Who Rose From the Dead. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
The Miracle of the Loaves and Fish. The First of Three of Jesus’ PassoversIn the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear about the difficult relationship Jesus had with a number of the authorities in Israel.The difficulties begin with false Messiahs. Men who came before the Lord, pretending to be the one the people were waiting for in Israel. Humans, who speak well, became the criteria to stir up the people. Israel did not wait for the Lord to come, showing His anointing and wonderful deeds.There were many self-proclaimed Messiahs. One mentioned roamed the earth at the time Jesus was born. So, just thirty years before Jesus’ ends His hidden life, there was a self-proclaimed Messiah. The self-proclaimed Messiahs had a common characteristic. They normally ended in violence and their movement of the people fades away. Hear more within the Homily.In the first reading we hear though Jesus is put to death, unlike in the past, the followers / the disciples do not disburse. There is something different here. The religious leaders, in deciding how to handle the disciples, are told to take a moment. Step back and give it time. If it is not from God, it will fade away. If it is from God, then see how it unfolds. Good advice then . . . and now. Have Patience: Do Not Act Rashly in the Spiritual Life. Hear more about this lesson.. . . The first of Three of Jesus’ PassoversIn the Gospel we hear about the Miracle of the Feeding of Thousands. St. John, in his Gospel, highlights the seven signs the Lord performs to reveal His Glory . . . so that we may believe. John explains these miracles so that we may better understand the great mysteries of the Passion. This is approximately the mid-point in Jesus’ ministry, when we hear about this miracle.Hear about The Miracle of the Loaves and Fish. This is the first of three of Jesus’ Passovers outlined by the Holy Spirit through St. John.Listen more to this Meditation Media.
When the Disciples Start Moving . . . Jesus Meets Them. This is Characteristic of Discipleship The Homily begins with the gestures we make when the Gospel is proclaimed. Why do we make these gestures? What does the Church tell us? Listen to the beginning of the Homily.In today’s Gospel, the Apostles sail across the waters to Galilee. Jesus ascended the mountain to pray and was not with the disciples. The disciples leave, and Jesus is not with them, because they know they need to get to the other side.The Gospel story also tells us about what it is to follow Jesus sometimes. Jesus teaches all of us, including the disciples. He teaches what is right, so we all can just go and do it. Hear more within the Homily.The disciples sail to the other side of the waters. Its dark. Sometimes when we trust God, it’s like stepping out into the dark . . . because we do not know where we are going. The disciples sail out into the dark a few miles. As they move forward . . . doing what Jesus wants them to do . . . Jesus comes to them. The disciples see Him walking toward the boat . . . on top of the waters!When the disciples start moving . . . Jesus meets them. This is characteristic of discipleship. Hear more within the Homily. Understand the lesson for us! Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Apostles are Thrown Into Jail and Released by an Angel . . . Paralleling the Events of The ResurrectionIn early Christian writings and poetry, the breaking of chains is written to describe the Resurrection.When they take the Lord down from The Cross, they place Him in a tomb. They then rolled the stone and sealed the tomb . . . in effect locking Him in. They then place guards in front of the tomb, so no one could steal the body and claim Resurrection.On Easter Sunday, we hear that an angel comes, rolls away the stone, and we discover the Lord is not in the tomb. The stone, the seal and the guards were powerless to stop the Resurrection. They cannot stop the gift of salvation. They are powerless against the Glory of Our Lord. Hear more within the Homily.In the first reading (not included within this audio), the Apostles are arrested. Why? Because the Apostles are speaking about the Resurrection. The power of it is bringing people to the Church. The Pharisees are angry due to the preaching of the Apostles. The leaders are jealous, because these uneducated men . . . the Apostles . . . are winning more hearts than they are. The Apostles speak with authority to the people. Rather than humbling themselves, the leaders act out of anger. They want to remove those who are a threat. So, what are the leaders’ reactions?. . . Paralleling the Events of The ResurrectionThe Apostles are thrown in jail. They lock them in jail. The leaders post a guard outside a strong / heavy jail door. What happens? An angel comes. The angel appears and delivers the Apostles as though they are in a tomb. What happens? Scriptures tells us they pass through the guards and the jail to freedom.The angel tells the Apostles to not be silent, as the leaders desire. Proclaim the victory of the Resurrection.The Apostles have a parallel experience. Why is this important for us? Hear more within the Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
St. Peter’s Healing In the Name of Jesus Christ In today’s Gospel, St. Peter (and St. John) heals a man in the name of Jesus Christ.The beggar wanted coins. St. Peter does not carry coins but offers the man what he does have . . . salvation and healing through the name of Jesus Christ.The healing of the man’s legs took less than a minute. This man spent a lifetime with legs that could not support him. But within a minute, the man is healed, and he has the freedom of movement he only dreamed about in his life. The change in life for the man is dramatic. But the healing also had an impact on so many others.The crowd entering the temple sees the healed man. A man the crowd walked by week after week. Suddenly, there is a change. The crowd is curious about this event. Now the disciples need to explain what happened.Note that the woundedness of the man, for so many years, has led to many people coming to faith. The man’s inability to move is at the service of so many hearts that are gathered around the disciples.Peter Identifies the Source of the HealingPeter identifies the source of the healing. It is through the name of Jesus Christ, Who has been raised from the dead. The Lord shares His Victory over sin and death with His Church. By means of the touch of St. Peter’s hand on the man . . . the touch of the Church . . . the touch of Jesus arrives within this man. This revealing is not just for the private benefit of the man (though that is real). It is for the benefit of a public outward sign to the crowd, whose hearts were also crippled.We also hear that there are others that are troubled by this news of the healing. The Gospel tells us about them today. Religious leaders are troubled and unable to celebrate the miraculous event of this man’s life. Why? Because it doesn’t meet the leaders’ criteria for what is acceptable.St. Peter engages those who seek to silence the message. St. Peter’s response to the leaders is remarkable and said without fear. Listen to the Homily.Listen to what Peter Says About Healing In the Name of Jesus Christ. Hear Peter’s response to the leaders about healing and about the Lord, without fear.Listen to this Meditation Media.
Why Didn’t Jesus Show His Risen Glory to the World? Why Did He Entrust Delivering the Resurrection News to the Disciples?Why Didn’t Jesus Show His Risen Glory to the World? . . . The readings today place before us hearts that are hardened and reluctant to believe. The Church selects these readings today for a specific reason. Hear more within the Homily.One of the remarkable things about the Resurrection is the way it is made known to the world. On Good Friday the death of Jesus is a public event. Thousands of people watch the Crucifixion events unfold. Thousands watched it happen. Jesus’ dying was not a secret. His suffering is visible. His death is visible.Curiously, the Resurrection was not visible to the world. In fact, no one ever sees Jesus leave the tomb. Even when the angels roll the stone away, Jesus has already left the tomb. No one sees Him rise. How is His Victory not visible to the world? We would think, just like His death was made public, that His rising would also be made public. But no! Why Didn’t Jesus Show His Risen Glory to the World?. . . Why Did He Entrust Delivering the Resurrection News to the Disciples?The Lord is, curiously, pleased not to make His Victory public in the same way. He is pleased to let the world know about His Resurrection through the preaching of a handful of disciples. Why? Why didn’t Jesus show His Risen Glory to the World?Hear more within this Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Divine Mercy Sunday: Experience God’s Joy For You . . . And . . . St Thomas’ Faith For centuries, the Church has used the second Sunday of Easter or the Sunday in the Octave of Easter to celebrate the Victory of Jesus.The name Divine Mercy Sunday was added many years later. This is a day the Church celebrates Jesus’ Victory of Mercy. What is it do we really celebrate on Divine Mercy Sunday? Hear about the reality of victorious mercy. Hear about God’s Joy for You!St. Thomas’ FaithOn this day we also hear about St. Thomas. Many think Thomas’ faith is in question with today’s Gospel. Hear a second interpretation of Thomas. Thomas says what might be the greatest proclamation of faith in the Gospel. Listen to the story of Doubting Thomas and hear what it is we should imitate.Listen to this Meditation Media.
Understand Our Movement that Recognizes Something Great Has Happened for Us!It is easy to forget, or even miss the point of what it is we do here on Easter Sunday morning.On this day there must be a willingness to move. We must be moved by someone or something that is greater than ourselves. It is a movement that the Body of Church began over six weeks ago. On that day we came to Church and marked ourselves with ashes. All Christians mark themselves on that day. We began our movement away from darkness. We moved away from death and toward life. Away from sin and toward goodness.On Ash Wednesday, our goal was not just to mark our forehead. It began a movement that had a goal. It had a destination. Our journey to Easter Sunday’s Mass began over six weeks ago.We hear in the Gospel, the women moved toward the tomb. They moved from the darkness of night into the light. Out of love they go to see Jesus. In that love, they arrive and discover that Jesus’ body is not in the tomb. Mary Magdalene discovered that death was not there anymore. That their loss wasn’t there anymore. Their pain was not there anymore. Mary had to move. She ran, scripture tells us. She did not understand what had happen. But she ran because others needed to know. She again did not understand it. But she knew whatever happened, it was marvelous.Upon hearing the news, St. Peter and St. John ran to the tomb also. Easter is about movement. It is a movement, not to remember what happened two thousand years ago. It is a movement that recognizes a victory had been won. A victory by Jesus . . . for us!Hear more about Easter and the Easter Octave. Understand our movement that recognizes something great has happened for us! Listen to this Meditation Media.Just a note: If possible, go to the QoAH's website which has this post and learn more about the remarkable painting.
The Resurrection: If You Accept the Truth that the Bondage of Death . . . the Chains of Death are Now Broken, then Everything Becomes Different There is a temptation amongst Christians to talk about our faith in general terms . . . or in generalities.We say Jesus was crucified because of our sins. Jesus was crucified. Jesus rose again.Notice how these descriptions are general . . . and they do not talk about ourselves . . . they do not talk about me! Stated the first way, those sentences are merely information. These statements reduce the Gospel to mere information. But the Gospel is not about merely information! We celebrate what happened . . . that is true. The real question is: How well do we all realize the impact of the Resurrection of the Lord? That was the core of preaching in the early Church. It is this reality . . . the reality of the Resurrection that changes everything in this world! Everything is different.Up until that moment, no one ever conquered death. There was no real understanding of resurrection. There were some discussions before the Lord’s Resurrection, but they were just shadows of what it really means.If you accept the truth that the bondage of death . . . the chains of death are now broken, then everything becomes different. Listen to more within this Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Easter Sunday: The Joy of Easter, is the Joy of Jesus Christ First, and Then it Ours St. Peter talks in the first reading about the witnesses chosen in advance to the Resurrection of Jesus.Mary Magdalene went to the tomb on Easter morning. When she saw the empty tomb, she ran to tell the disciples the news. Upon hearing it, John and Peter ran to the tomb to see for themselves. John arrived first, scripture tells us, but he did not initially enter. Then Peter arrives. Easter sets lives in motion. Today, this is no less true. We attend Mass on Easter because of the greatness of today.When the Lord looked across history, before we were even born, he saw us all attending Mass on Easter, because of the greatness of the day. He saw you. Because that is the reason, He endured The Cross. He saw you! The Joy of Easter, is the Joy of Jesus Christ first, and then it ours. Hear more within the Homily.Hear about the original Easter day. Understand what Jesus’ Joy really means. Understand what The Joy of Easter is the Joy of Jesus means. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Sign that Provoked the Religious Leaders Before the Lord’s PassionIn today’s reading, the Lord tells us much.We hear about the resurrection of a people. In the first reading (not included within this audio) we do not hear about the resurrection of a person. We hear about the resurrection of a people. Israel has been destroyed. Its leaders are in exile. David my shepherd will lead them. But, he died 500+ years earlier. The kingship has collapsed. There is no king. The northern tribe disappeared 250+ years earlier. The Lord says; however, I will gather them all together. The Lord says there will be one people.The idea within the reading is of bringing back the people to a land that they have lost. A people scattered and lost is the idea. The Lord says He will cleanse them of their impurities, which brought the original destruction. Think about that image. People fallen, with their dignity comprised; the people will rise and be cleansed by the Lord. Wow! Remarkable! Hear more within the Homily.The Gospel reading is also remarkable. The Gospel focuses on the agitation of the religious leaders. Why are they agitated? They are worried about what was said concerning the raising from the dead of Lazarus. This sign provokes the leaders. They recognize that Jesus is performing great signs . . . great miracles. Should they believe in Him? The religious leaders do not. They focus on what the Romans will take away from the leaders if Jesus continues. They focus on what they will lose!Hear more about The Sign that Provoked the Religious Leaders Before the Lord’s Passion. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Three Hearts with Jesus During the Last Supper The Gospel reading takes place in the upper room and recounts the Last Supper. The disciples are sitting around the table with Jesus. Our attention is drawn to three men. It is important to note, because one cannot fully engage the Passion of the Lord, without paying attention to the other characters.Jesus suffers during the Passion, but He is not alone in most of it. The three men are Judas, Peter and the other disciple . . . the one whom Jesus loved.Three Classes of the Human HeartThree classes of the human heart. It also represents three situations in which our own heart can find itself. First, we have the unfaithful heart . . . the heart capable of rejection and betrayal. Second, we have a loyal, but flawed heart. It is the heart of one who tries to be faithful. One that tries to be a good friend. It is a heart that often succeeds, but despite best intentions, often comes up short. He fails at loving. He fails not because he doesn’t love, but often shows his love in the wrong way.Lastly, we have this “Other” heart. A heart that rests against the beating heart of the Lord Himself! The beloved, whose life is marked with a singular intimacy with the Lord. Listen to this Homily to hear more about these three hearts.The first words within the Gospel are moving words. Jesus is deeply troubled. We can almost hear the pain in His voice. He knows one of His friends will betray Him. The suffering of the Lord has already begun within the Upper Room.Listen to Three Hearts with Jesus During the Last Supper. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Church’s Message When We Kneel at the Time the Lord Gives Up His Spirit!One of the miraculous moments of all of Holy Week, just happened during the Gospel reading.During the reading of the Lord’s Passion (not included within this audio), there are many details presented. However, during the reading there is a moment when the simple statement of the Lord giving up His Spirit is read. We then kneel. Whatever I missed or not focused on, up to that time, suddenly, for a moment, everything is different.We kneel. There is an immediate response that the Church makes. The entire body of Christ falls to its knees. We are not reading history. The Church recognizes that we are all in the presence of something much greater than ourselves. And we respond. We make ourselves low before the mystery that is so very great. During those few minutes on our knees, we all recognize that there is something unspeakably great and compelling here during this moment. It prepares us for the remainder of Holy Week.As the Lord gives up His Spirit, we hear that the world itself responds to this moment. The earth trembles. The dead hears and reacts. And the sun came out and shines. At the time of death, light returns to the sky. Hear more within this approximately twelve-minute Homily.Understand the full significance for each of us at this point within the Passion. Listen to When We Kneel at the Time the Lord Gives Up His Spirit. Listen to this Mediation Media on Palm Sunday.
Even Believers in Jesus . . . Were Trying to Kill Him. What Scripture Tells Us! There is a chilling, a concerning note to the beginning of today’s Gospel.Jesus spoke to the Jews who believed in Him. The Gospel’s exchange is between the Lord and believers. Not between non-believers, but believers. Yet, Jesus says, You are trying to kill Me. Oh my! That should give of us reason to pause and pay attention, because we are believers in Jesus!Listen to this Meditation Media
The Point of Some Hardships . . . Is For the Glory and Goodness of God to Show Itself In the scriptures we hear I will take you from your grave and give you life.These words are directed to a broken people in exile. The chosen people no longer have their lands. Their life changed. Spiritually, something died. These words impact us today. The Lord speaks a Word that reaches into the dead and gives it back life. Listen further to this Homily.In the Gospel we hear about the Lord calling Lazarus out of his grave. Lazarus was sick, and a friend of the Lord. The Lord waits first before traveling to see Lazarus. The Lord does not always act immediately. Why? The illness that inflicts Lazarus does not only impact his life. There is a point to Lazarus’ sickness. When things go wrong, like an illness or some other hardship, it is not pointless . . . if we unite it with Our Lord.Hardship Is NOT Pointless, If . . .When Jesus hears about Lazarus, He waits a bit. Why? Because there is a point to the hardship Lazarus’ family is experiencing. So, He waits. This is a lesson for us to recognize! The issue is uniting our hardship with Christ which allows the point to emerge.Lazarus dies, then the Lord moves to go to him. The point of the illness was not that the family would suffer. The point is the miracle that is about to happen. The point is the Glory of God will be evident. Hardship, often, can be a way of the Goodness of God to show itself.Listen to more of this Meditation Media.
The Life Hidden with Jesus in God: Introduction and Reflections This audio is a brief Introduction and Reflections on Henri Marie Boudon’s spiritual classic “The Life Hidden with Jesus in God”.Written over three hundred years ago, it made a strong contribution to St. Louis de Montfort’s spiritual formation. The focus of the book is a remarkable spirituality of self-denial. This is a follow up to last year’s work on Boudon’s “The Holy Ways of the Cross.”OverviewFrom the back cover of the book, the following summarizes the book’s focus.Echoing Saint Paul, Henri-Marie Boudon writes: “Happy they whose life is hidden with Christ in God that they may appear with Him when He manifests His glory.”The Christian life is steeped in this mystery of hiddenness: its model, Jesus Christ himself, is hidden in God. It is with this “double hiddenness,” Fr. Hugh Gillespie, S.M.M., explains in his Introduction, “the hiddenness of our very selves within the great hiddenness of Christ” that Boudon is concerned.Thematically united to another of Boudon’s works, The Holy Ways of the Cross, The Life Hidden with Jesus in God contends primarily with the prerequisite task of Christian discipleship: to deny oneself. Only after the act of self-denial can the primary work of that discipleship begin: to follow Christ and receive life in abundance from him. Deftly edited and insightfully introduced by Andrew L. Ouellette and Fr. Gillespie, The Life Hidden with Jesus in God is a wellspring of both spiritual wisdom and practical instruction in the ways of Christian discipleship.This AudioThis approximately fifty-minute audio provides an overview and introduction to the book and offers several spiritual reflections. One does not need to have the book in hand to listen to this audio. We pray that this audio assists you in your own Spiritual Journey and encourages you to read the book.
The Brazen Serpent. What God is Really Telling Moses . . . and Us!The Brazen Serpent . . . Because He spoke this way, many became to believe in Him.This might be a puzzling statement that we hear in today’s Gospel. I might not even understand that statement! This is a mysterious passage found in St. John’s Gospel. Mysterious because it moved hearts, when to today’s ear, it may sound confusing. Hear more about what St. John is actually telling us!In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear about the people of Israel, led by Moses, in the dessert. They are complaining as they near the end of their forty-year journey. The people are complaining about the food. They are complaining about being in the dessert. It is not the first time they complain to Moses. The people do not appreciate the miraculous events of being fed every day in the dessert with Quail and Manna for Heaven.Note what we hear. Israel has a miracle raining upon them every day. Their response? We are tired of the miracles. They do not appreciate God’s gift.. . . What God is Really Telling Moses . . . and Us!It’s a lesson that is appropriate for us today! Instead of focusing on the greater things . . . the miracle and blessings God gives to us . . . we focus on the lesser things . . . in this case, the type of food they are eating. Hear more within the Homily.God steps away from protecting the people in the dessert, just as the people asks Him to do so. When He does, the serpents come, killing many of the people. The people then realize what God has done for them. Moses is then told to craft a serpent on a pole. Why? What is God telling us? How is this relevant as we approach Holy Week?Listen to the Brazen Serpent. What God is Really Telling Moses . . . and Us! Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Feast of the Annunciation and The Hiddenness of God Today we celebrate the Glory of God and the Hiddenness of God.We celebrate His wonderous workings and the humility of God. This is a feast of Jesus Christ, though we do not see Him during today’s reading and Gospel. Within the Homily we hear about the synergies between the reading and the Gospel.The Homily discusses the first reading’s (not included within this audio) story of The Annunciation. This passage was written about 740 years before the actual Annunciation. Understand why this Feast Day is so important.Saint Louis de Montfort describes this Feast Day as the greatest of all Mysteries. Greater, in some ways, than the Mystery of the Crucifixion. Why? Hear more within the Homily.This is a feast day of the Lord. It is a strange announcement, since it was told to only one person. It is a feast day that is characterized by the Hiddenness of God. Understand what this means and why it’s important to understand within our own Spiritual Journey.
Feast of the Annunciation: The Holy Rosary and Meditations Join us in praying this Rosary. Listen to the special meditations within the Feast of the Annunciation’s Holy Rosary.
From a Christian Perspective, Suffering is a Sign of God’s Patience With Us!From a Christian Perspective, . . .On the Fridays during Lent there is a sharp and clear note of the Passion in the readings. The words in which the Gospel ends today is important. They tried to seize Him and put Him to death. But no one laid a hand on Him, because His hour had not come.It is important to realize that Jesus is not a victim of circumstances. Jesus did not die because of the events that took place and He was not swept up in all of that. His death was not an accident. It was not avoidable on earthy terms. He came for this reason. He will lay down His life. The world did not take it from Him. It will come on the appropriate day, at the appropriate time, in the appropriate way. Why does He come into the world? He came to bear The Cross, by which He will save us. Every step in His life, is a step in the direction of The Cross. Hear more within the Homily.The Gospel reading is amazing. The people wanted to capture the Lord and put Him to death. Why? That is covered within the Homily. But the people wanted to test the Lord. If they make Him suffer, God will rescue Him . . . if He is truly the Son of God.. . . Suffering is a Sign of God’s Patience With Us!We hear this during the Passion and at the foot of The Cross. The people say, if you are really the Son of God, if you are really the Christ, then save yourself. The people say the proof you are the Son, is if you do not suffer.The irony is that is exactly the proof that Jesus is the Christ. It is the reason He came into the world. The ways of God are not our way. Hear more within the Homily.Suffering Has Value Within This WorldSuffering is a fact of life in this world. It is a fact, because man brought it upon himself by rejecting God and preferring to sin. We live in a world where pain exists. Suffering comes; death comes to us all.The world sees no value or good in suffering. The world says when you suffer, you are no good to me. When you suffer you are merely a burden. In the eye of God, and from the Christian perspective, suffering has a great value. By the suffering, the Lord has chosen to redeem us. The patience in bearing the suffering is a sign of the patience of God.From a Christian perspective, understand what value God sees in suffering. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Wisdom of the Cross Lenten Mission: Day 1: One Cannot Know Jesus Without Understanding The CrossAfter the opening prayer and the reading of the Gospel, the Reflection begins with the topic Why and How Do We Bless Ourselves Before the Gospel is Read. Listen more to the homily.Who does the world say I am? We hear this in the Gospel that is read as Jesus asks the question to His disciples. You who know me, what does the world say about me? There are many answers. Jesus then asks the disciples Who do you say I am? While many disciples do not answer or say anything, Peter answers and says Jesus is the Christ. Only Peter answers the Lord.The Lord then says do not tell everyone. Why? Because knowledge of Jesus does not come from us. Jesus then tells His disciples who He is! Hear more within the Mission’s Reflection.Jesus tells His disciples who He is . . . Jesus will be rejected, He will be condemned, He will be made to suffer, He will be put to death and He will rise again on the third day. This is exactly who I (Jesus) am! This was not the answer anyone was ready to hear from the Lord. Hear more within the Mission Reflection.Jesus again tells His disciples; He is the Christ. But you (His disciples) do not know what those words mean. That is why He says do not share this fact. You have the right words, but you lack an understanding. But you are missing the right spirit. You do not think as God does.We (all of us) need more than the right words. We also need the right spirit. The key to knowing the Lord, is The Cross. Without that understanding, one cannot know Jesus. You cannot understand me without understanding The Cross. The Spirit of Jesus Christ is one of self-denial and self-sacrifice.
The Wisdom of the Cross Lenten Mission: Day 2: The Cross Is Key to Knowing JesusThe first night of this Mission began with a reflection on the sign one makes at the beginning of the proclamation of the Gospel. On the second night of the Mission, the reflection begins at the end of the proclamation of the Gospel. Hear more within the reflection.The Gospel we hear tonight is The Passion of Christ, according to St. Luke. Sometimes Christians and non-Christians ask a simple question. Why did Jesus die? Some answer it was because of the hatred against Him. Others say it was the political environment of the Romans. But the simple fact is these are not the reasons. Jesus came into the world to suffer, sacrifice and die for our sins. He chose The Cross, even before His birth. Therefore, there is no engaging Jesus without also engaging The Cross.The Cross is The KeyThis is why it is so important, especially during the Lenten Season, to engage this great mystery . . . The Cross which is the key that unlocks the fullness and truth of Jesus Christ.The Passion begins on Holy Thursday night, while He is in the Garden. The soldiers come at night, and He is ready . . . and He sees them coming. While He is ready, His close disciples crumble and abandon Him . . . and flee. Jesus is alone and He is taken. He is willing to stand before the unjust ruling of the world. The world, through Pilate, initially finds no guilt. Pilate states He committed no wrong. But ultimately, Jesus is found guilty . . . He is guilty of not being worth saving. Hear more of the opening of the Passion within this reflection.After Pilate sentences Jesus to death, they bring out The Cross to Him. A large and heavy piece of wood is brought to the carpenter. The Cross is large, so much so that it takes multiple men to bring it to Jesus. Brought to Jesus to carry it . . . by Himself. He carries not only The Cross . . . but the guilt of every person whoever lived (past, present and future). The latter is much heavier. That’s The Cross. That’s the burden He bears.Jesus Takes The Cross and Looks Toward HeavenThe reflection briefly talks about artwork for The Cross. Good artwork shows Jesus taking The Cross . . . Lifting up The Cross, with His eyes toward Heaven. Visualize Jesus Carrying The Cross. Listen to the sound of hammer and nail / spike as Jesus is crucified. Hear more within this reflection.The Most Remarkable Statement Ever Uttered in the History of the UniverseAfter being sentenced, carrying The Cross, and after being nailed to The Cross, Jesus remarkably says nothing. After He is on The Cross, Jesus says What Jesus utters is remarkable. It may be the most remarkable statement ever uttered in the history of the universe. Nothing before this moment can compare. The Lord speaks after all the events and all the blows. He asks for a blessing for the guy who is swinging the hammer. Father, forgive them. Forgive him, because he does not know what he is doing. Listen to this greatest of all statements. This statement shows Who Jesus is . . . it is why The Cross is key to understanding and knowing Jesus.The Two Thieves Have a Lesson For Our Own Spiritual JourneyEven the guys (the thieves) who died with Jesus. Two other guys lifted up their cross, and they follow Jesus. But lifting up your cross is not enough. Two men, but only one gets it right. It is not enough to just lift your cross. One must deny himself first, then carry your cross to follow Jesus. Two men, but only one gets it right.These two men are important. In the entire history of the world, only these two men received this grace. Dying the same way, at the same time as Jesus. Only these two men received this grace. Going through it, they see the misery of their condemnation. Yet, Jesus is also condemned with them. Hear the lessons of the two thieves and its impact on our Spiritual Journey.
Lenten Mission: Day 3: Continuing The Wisdom of The Cross of Jesus.The Gospel takes place largely on Easter Sunday night . . . and the following Sunday. The story also includes the disciples telling St. Thomas they have seen the Lord. St. Thomas says you did not. St. Thomas then says, unless I place my hand in His side, I will not believe.The reflection begins with the words at the conclusion of the Gospel. Jesus did other things that are not written within this book. The Gospels were not written to merely gives us information. It isn’t a history book, though it is historical. Rather, these things have been written, so that you may believe. Listen more within the reflection.The Gospel reading, at first glance, does not seem to have anything to do with The Cross. How could it? The timeline is Easter Sunday, and the following Sunday. Yet, the Gospel has everything to do with The Cross. Hear how the Gospel connects with The Cross.On Jesus’ first appearance within the locked room, Jesus gives His first gift of the Risen Lord to His Church. Peace Be With You. Hear more within the reflection.We Should All Be More Like ThomasSt. Thomas often gets a bad rap. He is often characterized, on first glance, as the non-believer. In fact, the saying / name of Doubting Thomas refers to this Gospel reading, characterizing him as the non-believer. But on deeper reflection, we, perhaps, should all be like Thomas. Hear a different perspective on the faith of Thomas.St. Thomas reminds us that The Cross is the Key to Knowing Jesus, including in His Resurrection. That is why Jesus bears the signs of hanging on The Cross. Thomas suffers from the bum rap, of not believing when the other disciples saw Jesus on Easter Sunday. But Thomas offers (perhaps) the greatest declaration of faith in the New Testament from his knees. My Lord, and My God. Listen more to this reflection. Listen to how we might be more like Thomas.
The Wisdom of the Cross Lenten Mission: The Holy Rosaries and Meditations St. Louis de Montfort, before preaching a Mission, would not begin his preaching without leading the community in the Holy Rosary.Fr. de Montfort did not do this as part of a devotional practice. Rather, it served a very important purpose for him. He took to heart the Gospel that the Lord tells us when the Sower plants his seeds, he does so on various types of soil . . . fertile, or hard, or on rocks. Most of the seeds falling on the hardened soil and on the rocks does not have a chance to take root. Montfort use to say that unless the ground is prepared, the preaching has very little purpose. Montfort believed the saying of the Holy Rosary is at the service of preparing the heart. The Rosary is like rain fall. Each Hail Mary is like a rain drop falling upon the heart of the community.So, at the beginning of each night of the Mission, a Holy Rosary is said . . . The Joyful Mysteries, the Sorrowful Mysteries, and the Glorious Mysteries. Each Rosary contains Lenten Meditations on the Cross and each of the Mysteries.We encourage those that listen to the Virtual Mission on The Wisdom of The Cross, before each day’s audio, listen to and say a Holy Rosary corresponding to that night’s Mission. We pray that you also contemplate each of the Mysteries’ Meditations and that this Mission assists you in your own Preparation for Holy Week.
The Wisdom of the Cross Lenten Mission: The Holy Rosaries and Meditations St. Louis de Montfort, before preaching a Mission, would not begin his preaching without leading the community in the Holy Rosary.Fr. de Montfort did not do this as part of a devotional practice. Rather, it served a very important purpose for him. He took to heart the Gospel that the Lord tells us when the Sower plants his seeds, he does so on various types of soil . . . fertile, or hard, or on rocks. Most of the seeds falling on the hardened soil and on the rocks does not have a chance to take root. Montfort use to say that unless the ground is prepared, the preaching has very little purpose. Montfort believed the saying of the Holy Rosary is at the service of preparing the heart. The Rosary is like rain fall. Each Hail Mary is like a rain drop falling upon the heart of the community.So, at the beginning of each night of the Mission, a Holy Rosary is said . . . The Joyful Mysteries, the Sorrowful Mysteries, and the Glorious Mysteries. Each Rosary contains Lenten Meditations on the Cross and each of the Mysteries.We encourage those that listen to the Virtual Mission on The Wisdom of The Cross, before each day’s audio, listen to and say a Holy Rosary corresponding to that night’s Mission. We pray that you also contemplate each of the Mysteries’ Meditations and that this Mission assists you in your own Preparation for Holy Week.
The Wisdom of the Cross Lenten Mission: The Holy Rosaries and Meditations St. Louis de Montfort, before preaching a Mission, would not begin his preaching without leading the community in the Holy Rosary.Fr. de Montfort did not do this as part of a devotional practice. Rather, it served a very important purpose for him. He took to heart the Gospel that the Lord tells us when the Sower plants his seeds, he does so on various types of soil . . . fertile, or hard, or on rocks. Most of the seeds falling on the hardened soils and on the rocks does not have a chance to take root. Montfort use to say that unless the ground is prepared, the preaching has very little purpose. Montfort believed the saying of the Holy Rosary is at the service of preparing the heart. The Rosary is like rain fall. Each Hail Mary is like a rain drop falling upon the heart of the community.So, at the beginning of each night of the Mission, a Holy Rosary is said. The Joyful Mysteries, the Sorrowful Mysteries, and the Glorious Mysteries. Each Rosary contains Lenten Meditations on the Cross and each of the Mysteries.We encourage those that listen to the Virtual Mission on The Wisdom of The Cross, before each day’s audio, listen to and say a Holy Rosary corresponding to that night’s Mission. We pray that you also contemplate each of the Mysteries’ Meditations and that this Mission assists you in your own Preparation for Holy Week.
The Feast of St. Joseph, the Spouse of the Virgin Mary Today is not the Feast of St. Joseph!It is the Feast of St. Joseph, the Spouse of the Virgin Mary. It is the only feast day in which liturgically the Church celebrates under the title of Husband. Remarkable. There are married couples that are saints, but their title does not include their spouse. For example, our Lady’s parents are not entitled parents or spouse. Only Joseph.The Church celebrates the dignity of what it means to be a husband, as well as the dignity of marriage. The Church celebrates the particular relationship with the Holy Virgin Mary.Hear why this Feast Day is so important. Listen to this Meditation Media.
What Does Value in Suffering Mean for Our Spiritual Life? The readings today focus on contrasts between light and darkness, night and day, blindness and sight.In the first reading (not included within this audio) is the anointing of David, the future king of Israel. Jesse and his sons are invited to a feast and among his sons, a king will be chosen. As the prophet arrives, he sees the sons and says the eldest son must be the anointed one. God says no. None of the sons will do. They send for David, and he is anointed. The prophet sees one thing. Jesse sees one thing. God sees the heart of man. Listen more to the Homily.In the Gospel, Peter asks the Lord about a blind man since birth. Did the man sin or was it his parents? Jesus says neither. The man was blind since birth in order for the glory of God to be revealed to the world at the right time.Hear more about God’s Glory Revealed To Man By Curing the Blind Man. There is value in suffering. Most humans avoid the idea of suffering. What does value in suffering mean for our spiritual life? Listen more to this Meditation Media.Note: Hear more about Mission Week at the Shrine.
God is Always Ready to Extend Forgiveness and Mercy. But, YOU Must Do Something to Receive It! The note of forgiveness is apparent in today’s readings in different ways.The first reading (not included within this audio) involves physical peril. The Homily discusses a person about to be put to death as the torturer readies a white fire. We hear about someone about to enter a chamber of fire. A prayer to Heaven emerges. We hear about the calmness of the prayer. Just a few minutes left in this life, and the prayer is made in calmness. Listen to hear more about forgiveness.In the Gospel, Peter asks Jesus how many times one should forgive his brother. As many as seven times? Jesus answers seventy times seven. In the reading and the Gospel, the concern is how we deal with one another. We switch from the desperate fallen man, unable to save himself, needs something from the Lord to something different. In the Gospel, Peter asks about how the desperate fallen man needs to treat his brothers. Seven times is not a small amount of forgiveness. Jesus responds, by implying we must be willing to forgive. Jesus then tells a parable about forgiveness and how Heaven works.God is always ready to extend forgiveness. The fruit of receiving the mercy of God is extending that mercy through you. Hear more about this valuable lesson and its impact on our Spiritual Life.
The Lord Tells Us How to Achieve Greatness in Our Living and its Impact on Our Journey to HeavenThe Lord Tells Us How to Achieve Greatness in Our Living and . . . When we hear the words greatest and least, we think of one of each. One greatest and one least.Notice how the Lord speaks in today’s Gospel. Whoever, in general, does this . . . will be the least. And whoever, in general, does this . . . will be the greatest. The Lord speaks in the plural.In speaking this way, the Lord places a category in front of believers. There is a least level and a greatest level of living. The defining characteristic of least and greatest is how one engages the fullness of the Law that the Lord has given to His people. This is in harmony to what Moses says to the people as they are about to enter the promise land. The people are being given something. But to better receive it, and to live there, they must do something. This may surprise us today, as it surprised many in the day of Moses. Hear more about this comparison in the Homily.This may seem strange. Normally, when the Lord gives us something, we automatically stretch out our hand to receive it. But the Lord, as does Moses, says no . . . there must be something there first to receive what the Lord is giving us.What did Moses tell the people? To receive the promise land, and to live in it . . . you must receive the Law . . . and keep it. It is this receiving and keeping the Law, that one truly receives what the Lord has given His people. By keeping it, the receiving lasts not for a moment, but allows one to receive and abide in the blessing the Lord intends for each of us.. . . its Impact on Our Journey to HeavenNote the importance. The one that is not attentive to the Law is the one that will be least able to dwell in the land, least able to linger there, and least able to receive its fruitfulness. The one that is attentive and faithful, is the one who is greatest and able to settle into the land of blessing and to what the Lord is giving them. They are the greatest in their living. Understand the importance and the impact on our own Spiritual Life. Hear more within the Homily.The Lord Tells Us How to Achieve Greatness in Our Living and its Impact on Our Journey to Heaven. Listen to this lesson Jesus gives us in today’s Gospel. Meditate on it and have it impact your own Spiritual Life. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Chosen People Have a Special Place in God’s Heart When we attend Church, we do so because we are the people of God. That is what today’s scripture readings tells us. To belong to the Lord, means something. We want to make sure we get that right.Moses speaking to the people addresses them right before the series of movements on entering the promise land. After forty years, their journey in the dessert is coming to an end. They are about to cross the Jordan River, the place they have been seeking and promised . . . the promise land.Moses speaks to the people before crossing the river. Let’s be clear on what we are about and what we need to do when we cross the river. Who are we? We are His people. We are His chosen people. Moses tells the people they have a special place in the heart of the Lord.Hear more about God’s chosen people. Hear more about we are God’s chosen people. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Story of the Disciples James’ and John’s Ambitious Petition to Jesus . . . and The Lesson for Our Spiritual LifeIn today’s readings we have a number of complex messages. In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear from the prophet Jeremiah, who will be like the Lord and persecuted and made to suffer. Like Jesus, the opponents of Jeremiah are interested in writing down everything he says. They do so not to learn from him, but rather so they may persecute him. Hear more within the Homily.The community had hardened hearts. They picked and chose what to listen to, and even rid themselves of difficult prophets, because there was always another prophet more to their liking. Hear more in the Homily.Jesus came to save the world, but the world largely rejects Him. What a remarkable parallel story that we hear. Listen more within the Homily and why it is important, especially during this Lenten Season.Today’s Gospel is very challenging, especially for those who call themselves Christians and disciples of Jesus. The setting of this reading is very important. The Gospel speaks about one of the last things that happen before Jesus enters The Holy City on Psalm Sunday. It is a time, similar to now, where we are moving toward the Holy Days.As the Lord moves toward the Holy City, Jesus stops and calls His disciples aside. Not everyone. Just His disciples. As they are about to enter the Holy City, the Lord wants His disciples to be well formed and well prepared for what is about to happen.Jesus tells His disciples where they are going, and when they get there, certain things will take place. Jesus will be arrested, condemned, handed over and put to death. And then I (Jesus) will rise. He gives His disciples a final instruction in the Word of The Cross. The Word that is the key to understanding who the Lord is . . . without The Cross there is no understanding of Jesus Christ.Then something happens. It’s what all of us in this present age must pay attention. Jesus, in a sense, is giving a retreat or private conference to His disciples. He is opening their hearts to what is about to happen, so they can understand fully these events.But just like what often happens in our own spiritual life, our prayer gets hijacked. In this case, the mother of James and John shows up. She was not invited. The mother is the uninvited guest. She falls to her knees and has a petition. On the face of it . . . this looks like prayer.Listen to the story of James’ and John’s request (through their mother). At the very time Jesus is speaking about the Word of The Cross, there is a request that implies what do I get out of it . . . from the mother. The Lord has to do damage control, as He looks at the mother and her two sons.Hear the story of James’ and John’s Ambitious Petition to Jesus . . . and Its Lesson for Our Spiritual Life.
Humble Yourself Before the Lord. Jesus Tells us the Key to Spiritual Life.Humble Yourself Before the Lord. . . . The words from the readings of the Prophet Isaiah (not included within this audio) are particularly strong. Listen you people from Sodom and Gomorrah . . . God is speaking to Israel, not to the people of Sodom and Gomorrah. The Lord references two cities, recognized for their sinfulness. These two cities were destroyed because of their wickedness. Yet, the Lord references these cities when talking to His chosen people.The reading becomes even sharper when we understand what causes the Lord to say these words. The Lord references the sinfulness of exploitation of the poor and the weak. The Lord talks of this wickedness in terms of the wickedness of the two cities. Imagine the chosen people lumped into the discussion of the two sinful cities.The Lord, through this way of speaking, is holding out a moment of grace. However wicked your deeds, the Lord offers mercy, if the people are willing to turn from these wicked deeds. Hear more within the Homily.The grace is available if the people, if you and I, are willing to change. Hear more within the Homily.In the Gospel, Jesus wants to address a temptation that is often found within the hearts of the faithful. That is . . . if I have a leader that doesn’t meet my standards, I am not obliged to obey or follow what he or she says. It is a classic temptation and mistake. For example, we see it often today. “I do not go to Church, because it is filled with hypocrites”. Christ tells us that is a mistake.. . . Jesus Tells us the Key to Spiritual Life.Jesus describes the religious leaders of the day, the Pharisees. Our Lord tells His disciples about the Pharisees. There are two elements about these men. First, they do occupy a place of legitimate authority in the life of the people. They are the custodian of the Law and occupy that position. The second element is they do not occupy it well. Jesus explains this further to His disciples. Jesus explains our required response. Hear more within the Homily.It cannot be that way, says the Lord, speaking to His disciples. The Pharisees make a big show of the Law and how they speak. Do not place a burden on the people, without helping them carry that burden, says the Lord. It cannot be that way with you, says the Lord.The message of the Lord today is remarkably beautiful. Regardless of how perfect or imperfect the person in front of you is . . . we are all accountable for the way the Lord has given you to walk. Jesus also further tells us about Humility. Jesus tells us our spiritual and earthly life must be lived humbly. Humble yourself Before the Lord. Jesus tells us the key to Spiritual Life. Listen to Jesus’ message to His disciples. Hear more about how humility needs to impact our Spiritual Life from Our Lord. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Call of St. Matthew and The Call For All SinnersThe Call of St. Matthew and . . . I have not come to call the righteous to repentance, but the sinners. Jesus speaks these words in today’s Gospel. The Pharisees ask Jesus why He eats with tax collectors and sinners. And Jesus then says those words.To believe in the mercy of God, is to believe that the Lord will draw near to the sinner. To believe that the Lord will forgive, requires a belief that the Lord will not push the sinner away. This is the contradiction that the Pharisees celebrate in their hearts. They recognize the kindness and faithfulness of the Lord. But that kindness is in an exclusionary way. The Pharisees believe it is for me . . . and the chosen people . . . but not for the sinners. Hear more within the Homily.The Lord says, the one who needs Me, is the sinner. I will draw near to them. Jesus uses a curious example to make His point. The healthy do not need a physician. But the sick do. Note the implication. Hear more within the Homily.. . . The Call For All SinnersIn the early part of Lent, we hear this Gospel of the call of Matthew (also known as Levi). We hear about his call to discipleship. This Gospel does not focus so much on his discipleship, but rather the focus is on the sick. Hear more within the Homily.The Lord moves to the custom house and draws near to Levi. Jesus comes looking for him. Just like He comes looking for us individually, before we move to Him. Hear more about The Call of Matthew and how we should take heed of this example.Listen to this Meditation Media.
Understand the Connections Between the Message of Jonah and the Message of JesusUnderstand How the Message of Jonah . . .In today’s reading we have an example of the miraculous character of grace.And we are also given an example of the human heart closing itself off to the same miraculous character. In the first reading (not included within this audio), we are told the story of Jonah, the reluctant prophet. He arrives in the great (and large) city of Nineveh. Nineveh was the capital of the ancient Assyrian empire (located in today’s northern Iraq). The people of this country are known for their ruthlessness.This nation was a threat to all other nations. Jonah enters into this city. A capital famous for its wickedness and violence. Jonah, a lonely foreigner, goes to this city announcing forty days more and God will destroy this city. There is no reason . . . no logic . . . that his words will be accepted or effectively acted upon. There was no guarantee that he would even survive his journey across the city. Curiously there is a response. Hear more within the Homily.The timing of this announcement is important. The Lord sends His messenger when the time is right, and the message will be most effective. Understand how the people respond to this messenger. Hear more about the story within the Homily.Hear and understand how Lent has a similar characteristic. Lent, while it has forty days, does not involve our destruction at the end of the period. But it does contain a message. Hear more within the Homily.. . . and the Message of Jesus are ConnectedIn the Gospel we hear Jesus’ preaching. He says that this generation is one of signs. Just as Jonah was a sign for the people of Nineveh, Jesus will be a sign to this generation.In the story of Jonah, we understand that God has no interest in destroying the sinner. God desires the peoples’ change of hearts and their repentance. In the Gospel, we also hear that Jesus is here for the sinner. Jesus, unlike Jonah, is not a reluctant prophet. Jesus steps out of His glory to come to this world. He who is innocent stands before the wicked. Jesus says He stands before a wicked generation interested in signs.Understand how the message of Jonah and the message of Jesus are connected. Listen more to this Homily. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
The Lord’s Prayer: Understand the Significance to Our Own Spiritual Prayer LifeThe Lord’s Prayer: . . . How many times in our life have we prayed the Lord’s Prayer? Can we even count them?Having said that, do we really understand it? If asked to give an explanation of the prayer, many Christians might feel awkward. Interesting! On the one hand the prayer is very familiar. Yet on the other hand it, for many, it may feel a little slippery.Before showing us how to pray, Jesus in today’s Gospel, tells us do not babble on . . . do not ramble on saying many words that are meaningless. Don’t try to explain everything to God, as though we are His teacher.Jesus tells us your Father already knows what you need . . . before you ask Him. Jesus is not saying do not ask. No, not at all. Furthermore, Jesus tells us not to focus on the asking as though we are trying to tell God His job. We should not try to justify what we ask. Prayer is most effective when we are seeking something, when it is simple and direct. Listen more within the Homily.. . . Understand the Significance to Our Own Spiritual Prayer LifeMany Christians have a long list of prayers they say on a daily basis. There is nothing wrong with that. However, it can also be dangerous. When the prayers are said because one prayer is believed not to be enough, so they add another, this can be dangerous. Hear more about this danger within the Homily.Praying is not about saying prayers that will bring us a grace. Because sooner or later that leads to praying in the wrong spirit. So, why do we pray? What is it about? Jesus tells us, it is about your relationship with your Heavenly Father. If it’s about anything else . . . it’s wrong. Wow! Hear more within the Homily.Jesus tells us, when we pray then . . . this is how you are to pray. Jesus gives us a brief and simple and mighty prayer. Everything you need . . . is here. It doesn’t mean that other prayers are bad. On the contrary. But Jesus continues and tells His disciples that everything you need may be found here. If you say this prayer well, you will be praying well. Hear more within the Homily.Note how the prayer begins. It begins with a closeness to your Heavenly Father. Listen to the rest of Homily. Listen to The Lord’s Prayer: Understand the Significance to Our Own Spiritual Prayer Life. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
Understand How Adam and Jesus are both Tempted by Satan, and What It Means for Our Own Spiritual Life In today’s reading (not included within this audio) and the Gospel there are several contrasts.We hear about Adam and the new Adam, Jesus. The original Adam brought condemnation to the world, and the new Adam, brings salvation into the world. There is a deeper contrast in terms of the settings. Hear more within the Homily.Adam was set up for success. Created by God, he lived in a paradise garden of abundance, surrounded by blessings. This is one of the remarkable things about the fall of man . . . it happened in a paradise garden.The Gospel story is the temptation of Jesus . . . who spends 40 days in a dessert. Nothing grows in the dessert. It is anything but abundance. This is a story of obedience. The new Adam continues the contrast of the original Adam. Hear more within the Homily.In the first reading, Adam has an abundance of food. In the dessert, there is no food. In both cases, Satan tries to place a hunger before each Adam. It’s not about food, it’s a deeper issue. In the garden, Satan stokes the hunger for something Adam does not have . . . Adam can have more than he currently has in paradise. Satan, who also fell in paradise, tells Adam he can have more . . . he can be like God.Hear how Satan tempts the Lord. Understand how Adam and Jesus are both tempted by Satan, and What It Means for Our Spiritual Life. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Jesus Readies His Disciples (And Us), by Private Instruction, For What Is to Happen During Holy WeekAlleluia is a word that is not used during the Lenten Season. It is laid aside until Easter. Why?Hear more within the Homily and what its absent means during the Mass.The first reading (not included within this audio) tells us that anyone who would truly serve God, should prepare for a life of hardship and struggle. Well, that is not what most Christian want to hear!Anyone who serves God must understand this. If it is not considered, one can get overwhelmed. The reading continues with a statement that tells us fire is used to purify Gold and Silver. So it is with the human spirit. There is a certain fire that must enter into the heart to purify it. Hear more within the Homily.It is humiliation that reveals the heart of a man. It is this understanding that Jesus teaches His disciples in the Gospel. After much public teaching and formation, there is now private formation for the disciples.This is what the Lenten Season is for us! It is a six-week retreat that the Body of Christ makes with the Lord. The point of this six weeks is what the Lord says to each of us. The Lord’s teaching, in this Gospel, is not for the overall public. It is for those that will make His Word public.. . . For What Is to Happen During Holy WeekJesus begins His teaching with the Word of the Cross. It is a difficult word for us to master. Jesus wants His disciples to focus on His word. Jesus takes the disciples . . . and us, aside. The Lord tells His disciples that the Son of Man will be handed over, killed and He will rise three days later. Jesus tells His disciples where He is going. Our Lord is going to the Cross and will rise in three days.We are going through Lent to Holy Week. At the end, Jesus will rise. Jesus tells His disciples that everything Jesus does now, is to get His disciples ready for what is about to happen.Jesus Readies His Disciples (And Us), by Private Instruction, For What Is to Happen During Holy Week. Listen more to this Homily. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
Understand What the Ashes Do For Us After Ash Wednesday . . . Understand the Importance of the Ashes The Gospel today, for some, is confusing.The Lord says do not pray and do not fast so others may see. Do so in private and your Heavenly Father will see. Yet on Ash Wednesday, what do we do? We place ashes on our forehead, so that everyone can see. We appear to be doing exactly the opposite to what Our Lord instructs us to do. Are we disobeying Jesus on this day? The answer is no, as explained in today’s Homily.Today we gather to do something. We do more than just place ashes on our heads. The time of salvation is now. Not last week, now. What does that mean? Listen more within the Homily.Jesus tells us about how we can open our hearts. One’s heart can go south if we have a bad attitude. So, what does the Lord tell us? There is always a temptation to do things that gets us noticed … gets us celebrated. The Lord tells us be careful. Humans have an inner voice that often says . . . I hope they appreciated these actions. I hope they notice it. The Lord tells us what then happens.We place ashes on our foreheads to remind us that after today, we are still going to be doing something. We will be doing it . . . regardless of whether anyone else notices it or not. Hear about what the ashes do for us.Listen to more of this Homily. Understand What the Ashes Do For Us After Ash Wednesday . . . Understand the Importance of the Ashes. Listen to more of this Meditation Media.
St. Joseph’s Altar – ITE AD JOSEPHThe tradition of setting up an altar to St. Joseph in private homes and parish churches . . .. . . began in Sicily as an act of thanksgiving to St. Joseph for his intercession bringing to an end a severe drought that had caused a famine on the island. The altar would be set up and adorned with candles flowers and foods that would be enjoyed on the occasion of his feast day (March 20th this year). Anything left over would be donated in his name to the poor.The Shrine of Our Lady of the Island’s altar to St. Joseph is part of our Lenten observance. Here we will be collecting donations of non-perishable foods that will then be given in support of the outreach efforts (food pantry and soup kitchen) of St. Anne’s Roman Catholic Church in Brentwood, Long Island, New York.We encourage all Queen of All Hearts members on Long Island to visit the Shrine on or before St. Joseph’s Feast Day and linger a few moments in prayer asking St. Joseph’s intercession on behalf of the many individuals and families here on Long Island that lack basic necessities and to inspire in the hearts of all the Christian faithful a renewed spirit of generosity that we may more effectively care for them.Visitors are likewise encouraged to consider leaving a donation of one, or several, non-perishable food items here at the St. Joseph Altar so that our collective generosity might be truly abundant and effective in the service of the poor.Donations will be collected here up to, and including, the joyful celebration of the Solemn Feast of St. Joseph, the Spouse of the Virgin Mary, on Monday, March 20th.ITE AD JOSEPHGO TO JOSEPH---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Listen to more details about the St. Joseph Altar, the background and its blessing, within this seven-minute audio. Join us at the Shrine and participate in this special Lenten project.
Understand What the Transfiguration Should Mean for Our Own Spiritual Life In the first reading (not included within this audio) we are told without faith it is impossible to please God.This is an important statement to understand. We must understand it. If you are a believer, it is not enough to believe things about the Lord. We must be in the Lord. Faith is not just knowing details about the Lord and believing they are true. Faith is belief in a person. Moreover, faith is belief in the Lord. Hear more within the Homily.In today’s Gospel from St. Mark, we hear about the Transfiguration. It is important that we understand what is happening in this event. In the days before this Gospel, and within this Gospel reading, we hear that St. Peter is there at each event.In the days before, the Lord asks His disciples, who do people say that I am? The He asks, who do you (the disciples) say I am? Finally, the Lord talks about Himself. He talks about Himself in the words of The Cross. The Lord will be rejected, He will suffer, He will die, and finally, He will rise.Peter immediately objects to this description of the Passion. Peter states this is not a good plan. The Lord corrects Peter. Furthermore, the Lord has not come to fulfill Peter’s expectations, or our expectations. The Lord continues in the readings. He says, if anyone wants to come after me, let him deny himself, pick up his cross, and follow me.Jesus Shows the Disciples Where They Are Going with the Lord When They Follow HimIn today’s Gospel, the Lord takes Peter, James and John and tells them to follow Him to what would be the Transfiguration. The Homily talks about the significance of these three disciples. It is the moment for these three. It is not the moment for the other disciples.In our own Spiritual Life, there are times when the Lord will say come with me. Hear more about this! The Transfiguration has a message for us as well. It was not just about the Lord revealing His Glory to the three disciples. It was that, but more. When we deny ourselves, and pick up our cross and follow Him…there is a reason. The Lord will show us, from time to time, His Glory. He does so when it is the right time for us . . . spiritually. Jesus will show you where we are going when we follow Him in this manner. When He reveals to us . . . when He shows us Him, in His Glory . . . He is revealing what Heaven says about the Lord.The sequence in the Transfiguration (and before) is important. What does the world say about Me? What do you say about Me? Let Me tell you about Me! And, Let Heaven tell you about Me!The disciples are overwhelmed in seeing the Glory of the Lord. They see Moses and Elijah and Jesus. Jesus, in His Glory, allows the disciples to see scripture in a way they could not before this event. The disciples are changed. They come down from the mountain different than they were when the ascended.Understand what the Transfiguration should mean for our own Spiritual Life. Listen further to this Homily. Listen to this Mediation Media.
Be Perfect as Your Heavenly Father is Perfect . . . How Do We Do That? In today’s Mass we have an opening prayer.We turn to the Lord and ask for the Grace that through always contemplating heavenly things we might be pleasing to Him, in words and in deeds. Wow, that’s a prayer! As we enter the Lenten Season, hear why this is so important! Hear more within the Homily.The Scripture places before us challenging words today. In the first reading (not included within this audio), we receive a commandment from the Lord, spoken through Moses. Be Holy, just as the Lord thy God is Holy! Many humans will say, Who Me? I am not Holy! Be Holy, just as the Lord thy God is Holy! Hear more within the Homily.Be Perfect . . .Those words in the beginning of the first reading are comparable to the commandment from the lips of Jesus at the end of the Gospel. Be Perfect, just as your Heavenly Father in Heaven is Perfect! Our natural reaction is to say, Lord, you are commanding far too much from me! Lord, who can do that? Lord, how is that even possible, and what is it in the first place?Be Perfect as Your Heavenly Father is Perfect! Hear about the one specific thing that must be characteristic of every living Christian. It is fundamental to being perfect. Hear how being perfect should impact everyone’s spiritual life. Hear more within the Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Jesus Heals the Blind Man . . . Only After the Blind Man Surrenders Himself to JesusJesus Heals the Blind Man . . . In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear about Noah and the flood waters are decreasing.We hear about the releasing of birds. First a Raven. A little while later, a Dove is released, and it returns when it can find no place to rest. A week later, the Dove is released a second time, and returns with a branch. Noah waits another seven days and releases the Dove again. This time, it does not return. Noah again waits as the flood water decreases.Note how this works. Everything is not instantaneous. There is an action and a period of waiting. There is a cleansing of the earth. But it will take some time before man can walk upon it. Why? Listen more to the Homily and hear Noah’s lesson for our own spirituality.In the Gospel we hear about Jesus restoring the sight of a blind man. After touching his eyes, Jesus asks the man if he can see. The man says things are still cloudy. Jesus touches the man a second time.We do not see this anywhere else in scripture. Usually, when Jesus heals someone, it only takes one touch . . . or one word. Note what happens within this story.Jesus, and His disciples, enters a town. Later, Jesus says woe to you. It is a town which has very little faith. Hear more within the Homily.. . . Only After the Blind Man Surrenders Himself to JesusJesus takes the man aside. He takes the man away from the group who lack deep faith. Jesus’ first touch of the blind man is a touch to the man’s hand, which leads the man away. Before the blind man can see physically, he is moving, and the eyes of Jesus are leading him. Jesus does not immediately heal the man. He is not in a hurry to give sight to the man’s eyes, until those eyes belong to a man that knows how to surrender himself to Jesus.The Lord could have granted sight to the blind man immediately. But the Lord is pleased not to. Why? Understand this story and how it should impact our own Spiritual Journey. Hear more within the Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Lord Offers Us a Choice: Fire Or Water . . . But There Is an Implication The Lord offers us, each individual member of the human race, a choice: Fire or Water. Reach out and choose one. But your choice has an implication. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Garden of Eden and the Garden of Our Heart: the Intention of God for Mankind . . . For Us!The Garden of Eden and the Garden of Our Heart: . . . Today’s readings have two gardens.The first reading (not included within this audio) tells us about the Garden of Eden. The Gospel tells us about the Garden of Our Heart.In the readings of the last several days we hear about the story of the Seven Days of Creation and the Creation of Man. Today we hear about the second story of creation – The Creation of Man. One story follows the other. The Book of Genesis has two accounts of the Creation of Mankind. Hear more within the Homily.The Garden of Eden was created by God for man. The universe, and Earth, was created for man. The shape of human life is the work of God. Before you say . . . what happened? . . . Listen more to the Homily.God breathes into man to give man the fullness of life. The Garden of Eden is created to give mankind the fullness of life . . . that was what was intended by God. Remarkable!. . . the Intention of God for Mankind . . . For Us!Man, in the image of God, comes from God. All men and all human life have its origin in God. The Garden of Eden was planted in the East. East is the direction of Light . . . the direction of His Son. Hear more on what that means.God wants to settle mankind in a place of joy . . . in a place of goodness. He wants a place of abundance and beauty for all of mankind. We all know how the story of the Garden of Eden ends for man, and the reason why. Have we ever contemplated what God’s intentions are for mankind? Have we ever contemplated the goodness intended for mankind within the Garden of Eden . . . and for eternity?The Homily then discusses the second Garden. The Garden of Our Heart. What does that mean, and why is it important? The Garden of Eden and the Garden of Our Heart: the intention of God for Mankind . . . for us!Listen further to this Meditation Media.
Christmas – The Word Comes to Be With Us Has anyone ever experienced that no one does what you say? Linger with that image for a moment.Because it is important in understanding the greatness of the mystery we celebrate today.Two thousand years ago Caesar sat on his throne. He considered himself the ruler of the world. He styled himself not merely a man . . . but divine. At the same time, Herod in Jerusalem sat on a throne. He considered himself a king. He positioned himself as the heir to David. Both men understood something. The mighty get to say things to the people and they (the people) have to do these things.Worldly things begin with orders of words. The words are backed up by military powers.The Word Leaves His Glory to Come to Us as an InfantOn Christmas two thousand years ago, lay an infant in a manger. He has no earthly power . . . He has no earthly wealth. Yet, He too is a King. This infant is a curious King. He is not a king of words. He is the Word. Yet, He comes to us as an infant. Infant: it comes from the Latin root which means . . . incapable of speaking. Amazing. The Eternal Word comes to us as an infant. The Word made flesh is incapable of speaking these earthly words. Hear more within the Homily.Throughout history, before the Nativity, God spoke through the prophets. God’s word was indirect. Now, the Eternal Word will come to eventually speak to us directly. But for now . . . during this Mystery, He is incapable of speaking. Hear more within the Homily.Have you ever experienced times when you cannot find the right words? Times when you could not express yourself. If only we could find the right words!Today, at Christmas, God only has One Word. This Word says everything we need to know. The Word is not a book. The Word is a person to be met. Hear about the greatness of The Word and what the day means for mankind. Christmas – The Word Comes to Be With Us. He comes to be with us all. The Lord leaves His Glory so that He can Come to Us!Listen to the Meditation Media.
Christmas . . . a Day That Changes All Things and All Hearts Christmas, on one hand, comes every year. We celebrate with our customs and traditions.Christmas is so familiar within our mind that we risk it becoming ordinary . . . becoming common place of things that we do.Yet when we pause, we may see something about this mystery, that defeats our ability to reduce it to the familiar. The reason why it comes once a year is because it is great. It is not because it is on the calendar. It is on the calendar because it so great.Hear why! Hear why Christmas is a Day That Changes All Things and All Hearts. Don’t settle for the trivial. Do not settle for the ordinary. Don’t settle and treat this day as a day we simply get together as a family. Understand why this day is so great! Understand what it is that the Son brings to us today. Listen to the greatness of this mystery.Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Feast of the Epiphany . . . We Christians Are Like the MagiThe Feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord.Epiphany means shinning forth. It is a feast of the visibility and glorious presence of God. It is not the feast of the shinning forth of a star . . . though the star was involved. The brightness of the star is not the brightness of this mystery. This feast celebrates the brightness of the One that the star serves. The light of the star is at the service of bringing those to the greater Light . . . the Lord.The feast is not the feast of following a star. It is the feast at arriving at Jesus Christ. It’s easy to miss this within the story. God sent the star so that the Magi would follow it and would be led to Jesus. Hear more within the Homily.The Magi are not simply following a star. They were responding to a need. They are seeking a greater light. From such a distance, they are responding to the call of Jesus Christ across many nations. Jesus draws the Magi to Himself.. . . We Christians Are Like the MagiConsider that image for a moment. Meditate on that image. We start from our homes, or another location. We get up and move. All of us. All Christians. We come from various locations, and we find ourselves at Church . . . or our place of worship. We come from different directions . . . at different speeds, and wind up together. Why? We arrive because of Jesus. Why? It our response to Jesus’ calling us to Himself. We, in a way, are like the Magi. We are called by Jesus. Hear more within the Homily.How different worship is when we consider this! It is not a mere obligation that we go to Church on a Sunday. It is the fact that Jesus has called each one of us. And we are responding to that call. Hear more within the Homily.When the Magi arrived, they brought gifts. We all know the song . . . three gifts. But they brought more than that. They brought their hearts. Hear what our own devotion means and what we bring to the Lord when we arrive to worship Him!Listen to The Feast of the Epiphany . . . We Christians Are Like the Magi. Hear the similarities. Understand the call from The Lord and how that should impact how we worship. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Mary and Jesus Were Invited . . . And The Disciples Began to Believe Today’s Gospel is the Wedding of Cana.This scripture is well known to most of us. As with many parts of scripture that is well known, we should bracket the story . . . the part of the story we know . . . with the beginning and the end of the story. The story begins with Mary being invited to a wedding. Jesus and His disciples were also there. Hear what this means and why this part of the story is so important.At the end of the scripture, we hear about the miracle. We hear why this story is so important. It isn’t just that Mary tells the servants . . . do whatever He tells you.Listen to this Homily which frames the story of Cana. Listen to this Meditation Media and see if it doesn’t impact your own Spiritual Prayer life.
The Feast of the Mother of God. The Day The Child’s Name is Made Known to the World A week ago, we celebrated the birth of the Child on Christmas.This past week, we reflected on the meaning of His birth. Today we celebrate the naming of the Child. Curiously, our engagement of Christmas . . . our engagement of the Child . . . is an engagement without a name. We proclaim Christ the Lord. But, we name Him . . . the Child . . . the Son who God gives to us!It is not until today that the world first hears His name! On this eight day, as was the custom, He has a name. The Child . . . on this day, we can know by name. That name comes into the world the same way the Child did . . . Through Mary. Mary, who bares the secret of His name. A secret from Heaven.Hear the significance of this day. Hear more about the Feast of the Mother of God. Listen to this Meditation Media.Note: Before the reading of the Gospel, just a fun note that marks this special Feast Day.
The Feast of the Holy Family: The Flea to Egypt: Necessary to Fulfill the ScripturesThe Feast of the Holy Family: . . . The Feast of the Holy Family, and indeed Christmas, is often marked with sentimentality. This is not bad, but it is limiting. Everything is pleasant and safe. However, in doing so we may miss the full greatness and vigor of the joy and mystery of this holy season.Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family, within the octave of Christmas. In the Church’s eyes, it is still Christmas day! And what do we hear, in what should be a sweet time? We hear someone wishes to kill the newborn child. There is darkness in the midst of the light that shines.. . . The Flea to Egypt: Necessary to Fulfill the ScripturesWe engage this very familiar story of the three kings and the flight of the Holy Family into Egypt. At the back end of the Christmas octave, we have a family on the move. In a way, it is similar to the beginning of Christmas. A Family on the move facing a specific crisis. The Homily tells us more and its importance.On the face of it, to the world, this is chaos. Where will we go? What will we do? Where will we stay? How will we live? These questions may sound very familiar. Often, we have the same questions.Jesus is pleased to enter this world. He is pleased not to enter a time of sentimental sweetness within the family. He is pleased to enter the world into the disturbing reality that families always have had to deal with in this world.Yet in the midst of this, there is a tone of calmness and peacefulness. Calmness in the midst of a difficult situation. As the world erupts against this family, something else is at work. It is the movement of Heaven. The movement of grace.Joseph gets up and moves. Not because Herod threatens the child. He gets up because Heaven told him so, and Joseph was listening. There are two kingdoms. This family is not driven by the earthly kingdom. They are driven by the true kingdom . . . the Heavenly kingdom.The Gospel tells us that the family moves to Egypt. Why? Not because of the threat of Herod! They move for the sake of the child. They move to fulfill the scriptures.Hear more about what it means to fulfill scriptures. Why was the Flea to Egypt necessary? Hear more about the role of our own family within this world! Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Parable of the Other Two Sons: Knowing and Doing the Father’s Will Today’s Gospel is the other parable of the two sons.Scripture poses the question, which one did the will of the father? The story tells of a son who says no to going out into the field and work. He says NO!, but he changes his mind, and goes to the field. The second son says yes sir but does not go. Which did his father’s will?This is a parable Jesus tells us, in this Gospel. The Lord speaks to the authority, to the religious people of the day when He tells the parable. He speaks to people having hearts that are content or complacent with their own goodness. Jesus then asks them, tell Me what you think. The Lord, in a way, is holding up a mirror for us, in this passage of St. Matthew’s Gospel. Hear more of this Gospel and Homily.This parable is not about inheritance. It is about working in the fields. The first son, at first, refuses to do what his father wants him to do. This one who was so strong in his rejection, Jesus tells us, at some point he rethinks that and goes to the fields. He lays aside his firmness, but obeys.Hear more about both sons and the lessons for us. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Second Part of Advent: Take Advantage of This Time Spiritually Itis amazing how fast Advent goes by.Many people miss the preparation that Advent makes available to us. The Homily talks about the two parts of Advent. The first part ends two days before the Fourth Sunday of Advent. The second part begins on the day before the Fourth Sunday of Advent.So, what is the difference between the two parts of Advent? The second part allows us the chance to start over. So, if you did not start a spiritual preparation, begin anew during the second part of Advent. It is a chance to refocus oneself. Everything about Advent changes. Yes, there is still the purple color. We still have the candles. However, the prayer changes and the character of the scripture reading, also changes.Over the next week scripture takes a turn. The focus is on the events that lead up to the earthly birth of Our Lord. From the day before the Fourth Sunday of Advent to Christmas Eve (inclusive) we hear about our Lord’s pending earthly birth.We no longer hear about a pending, even distant prophecy of His Coming. The focus changes to an event that is very near. If you have done very little during Advent, listen to this Homily. If you have done very little, open up the words to O Come, O Come Emmanuel. That song has its origin in the second part of Advent. Listen further within the Homily to understand what this means for us!Understand how to take advantage of the remaining days within Advent. Listen to this Meditation Media.
St. Joseph Welcomes The Lord into His Heart Through Mary The Homily initially focuses on the prophet Isaiah.On the Fourth Sunday of Advent, we hear of the sign of the One to come (740+ years before His birth). We hear that Mary is THE VIRGIN who is to also be the sign from God. Again, we hear this from the prophet over 700 years before His birth.In today’s Gospel we hear about St. Joseph. He knows that Mary is with child and decides to divorce her quietly. An angel from Heaven approaches Joseph in a dream telling him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife.Joseph opens his door . . . he opens his heart . . . to the Lord through Mary. He takes Mary as his wife. He welcomes the Lord into his heart through Mary. Every member of The Association of Mary, Queen of All Hearts . . . every one who follows the Montfortian Spirituality . . . everyone who visits the Marian Shrine, Dedicated to Mary, Queen of All Hearts . . . must also do the same.Hear more about St. Joseph . . . hear more about welcoming the Lord into your own heart. Listen to this brief Meditation Media.
The Grace We Ask Heaven on the Third Sunday of Advent On the first Sunday of Advent, we request the grace to be Resolute. To be committed to run to Jesus upon His Coming with righteous deeds in hand. On the second Sunday of Advent we asked for the grace to remove those obstacles . . . those things . . . that would prevent us from moving forward toward Christ. Furthermore, on this third Sunday of Advent we also ask for a grace from Heaven.On this Sunday we ask for the grace to obtain the Joy of the great Salvation that God has promised us. We ask heaven not merely to be forgiven and not merely to be saved. We ask to be able to embrace the joy of what Heaven has given us! To embrace the Joy that the nearness of Christ brings! Why is this so important? Hear more within the Homily.St. John the Baptist Sends His Disciples To JesusIn the Gospel we hear that St. John the Baptist, in his days in prison, sent his disciples to Jesus to ask if He is the One we look for or is there another? John knew Jesus was the Savior. Why did he send his disciples to Jesus then with that question? What is his message to us during this Advent season? Listen to the Homily.Understand the Grace We Seek during this Sunday of Advent. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Our Lady and the History of Salvation: A Reflection During this Time of Advent and Christmas Seasons As we adorn our homes and offices with Nativity sets during this Advent and Christmas Seasons, . . .it is helpful to meditate at some point on Our Lady and the History of Salvation. Our Lady fits in the Almighty’s Plan for Salvation in a unique way.This reflection was given on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. On this day the Lord built a worthy dwelling for His Son.Listen to this reflection, especially during this time of year, and understand Our Lady’s Role in the History of Salvation.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception: THE WOMAN Will Come into the World and Oppose the Enemy of the World and Oppose the Enemy of Goodness The human heart has a tendency to hide when the person has done something wrong.It is that way when we sin. It produces a certain desire to hide. In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear about Adam and Eve hiding from the Lord after they have eaten to fruit of the tree. They hide from God. Hear more in the Homily.Everything we hear in the readings and the Gospel today deals with man’s hiddenness. God speaks of the consequences of hiding and refusing to step out of the darkness into the light. On the Day the Church celebrates the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady, the Readings and Gospel speaks of hiddenness. God tells the snake, and Adam and Eve how it will go, and what will happen.God will raise up one who will be an enemy of the snake. The snake who is the enemy of man and the enemy of goodness. God will raise up THE WOMAN who will be the enemy of the snake. The Lord is not speaking about Eve. He speaks of THE WOMAN.This WOMAN will come into the world. Hear more within the Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
God Wants You to Hope for Great Things in God Today has a remarkable set of readings. We hear a remarkable statement.Blessed are they who hope in the Lord. One might question why this is so remarkable. We have heard this numerous times. Yes, it is true, but what makes it remarkable?Many of us who are Christians, frankly, do not know How to Hope! A real Hope in God is often lacking in Christians. St. Louis de Montfort wrote a letter to the future priests of The Company of Mary. He says, Fear Not. But that is not enough!It is not enough to be unafraid. One might ask, what more would I want not to be afraid? Montfort writes, it’s not what you want! It is what God wants!What God wants from you is . . . that you Hope for Great things from Him! Hope sounds different that way. It is not just hoping in God. God wants you to Hope for Great Things in God. Not only that . . . He wants you to be filled with JOY when you hope for these great things.Hear what that actually means! Understand what the Lord is telling us! Understand how this should impact your spiritual well-being. Listen to this Meditation Media.
How Do We Know Who Gets Into Heaven? The readings over the weekdays, and Sundays, of the Advent season are connected and deliberately chosen by the Church.In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us, not everybody who looks at Him and says Lord, will enter into Heaven. This cuts across the grain of a shallow Christianity; one that says once you call Jesus Lord that you’re good and will go to Heaven. Jesus tells us . . . not so fast!There is a way of saying . . . Jesus, You are the Lord . . . which is empty and false, and actually shuts one out of Heaven. On my! Contrary to this. There is a way of turning to Jesus and saying . . . Lord . . . which is life giving, and allows one entry into Heaven. Hear more, directly from Jesus!How do We Know Who Gets into Heaven . . . and Who Doesn’t?If that is the case, How do We Know Who Gets into Heaven . . . and Who Doesn’t? The Lord tells us. He shifts His imagery in the Gospel to a house built on sand and a house built on rock.The one who listens to the words of mine, and acts upon them, is like one who builds a house upon rock.Listen to this Homily during this Advent Season. Understand How Do We Know Who Gets Into Heaven? Hear more in this Meditation Media.
The Grace We Seek During the Second Week of Advent In the first week of advent, we ask for a specific grace.The grace of resolve or firmly commit to running and greeting the Lord during His Coming with good deeds in our hands. The Advent season begins, not with a passive waiting for the Lord to come, but a preparation to meet Him when He comes. A preparation that requires us to move freely and not to arrive to the Lord empty handed.Today is the Second Sunday of Advent. It asks for a grace that builds upon the first Sunday’s grace request. Last week we asked for grace to run to the Lord with righteous deeds in hand. This week, we ask Heaven for the grace to run to the Lord in the first place. May no earthly undertaking hinder us, those who set out to run and to meet the Lord. Hear more about the grace we ask this week. Understand how the preparation time of Advent helps us spiritually.St. John the Baptist – Make Straight the Path of the LordHear how St. John the Baptist, the Voice, prepares all for the coming of the Lord. Hear his message on leaving behind those things and repent, for the King is Coming.Recognize the Lord is near. And that nearness requires a response from us. Repent, St. John the Baptist tells us. Change your heart now. So when the moment of grace arrives, you are ready.There is a lot that is surprising about Jesus. But God goes out of His way not to catch us off guard. He gives us this message from the Baptist to make straight the way of the Lord. The Baptist tells us it is our heart that must change, not the walkway of the Lord. Hear more in the Homily.So, what will happen when the Lord comes? The sheep will enjoy the company of the wolf. The lion and the lamb will play together without fear. We hear more in the Homily.Listen to and understand the Grace We Seek During this
St. Catherine of Alexandria: A Model of Virtue and Learning Today’s Gospel underscores how difficult it is to understand the signs given to us by the Lord.It is important that Christians not to pre-occupy their daily lives with understanding signs. The Lord tells us everyone will not know the day or the hour of His Coming! The ambiguity is important. If you were able to know the date, many people would say I do not have to worry until just before the date. Jesus tells us more, listen to the Homily.St. Catherine of AlexandriaToday, we celebrate a saint. For hundreds of years, the memorial has a great devotion. Then, it waned, and the Church did not include it in the liturgical calendar.Pope Benedict XVI restored this feast day to the Church’s calendar during his papacy. Why would the Holy Father insert this feast day back into the calendar? What drove him toward that? What was it about her life that made this action important to the Holy Father?Saint Catherine was a virgin and martyr. Catherine was a young woman from a wealthy family in Alexandria. She was a virgin from her youth and was determined to remain so. She was also remarkably well educated.Her most notable thing about her is her education. She is a remarkable example of combining virtue with learning. Hear more about this saint and how she is a model for our own spiritual life.
The Lord Talks about Drowsiness and its Impacts On Our Spiritual Life Be careful that your hearts do not become drowsy.This is an interesting expression the Lord utilizes within the Gospel. Think about . . . what it is to feel drowsy. Not to be asleep, but want to sleep. Don’t let your hearts become drowsy. That does not mean . . . it is different than saying . . . sluggish, or indifferent. What does it mean? Hear more within the Homily.Don’t let high energy living cause your heart to be drowsy. We all, perhaps, have experienced this at one time or another. High energy . . . then we crash. The Lord says don’t let it impact your heart. Jesus then continues and talks about . . . the anxiety of daily living.The Lord is talking about anxiety and our daily spiritual living. Anxiety zaps our energy. It then becomes hard to pray and hard to rest in peace. Often, we have sleepless nights. We are awake. Yet the next day are energy becomes zapped.Understand what the Lord is telling us as we enter Advent. Advent, a time in which we Prepare for His Coming! Listen to this Meditation Media.
First Sunday of Advent: We are Not Preparing for the Birth of Jesus. We are Preparing for His Second Coming and Preparing for Receiving the Grace of . . . Many Christians confuse the meaning of Advent. We are not preparing for the birth of Jesus. We are not preparing for the Nativity. That happened two thousand years ago! We are Preparing to celebrate the Nativity. We are also Preparing for His Second Coming! We are Preparing to Ask for Grace. Grace for what?Listen to the Gospel and Homily of the First Sunday of Advent. Understand what we are preparing for and what Grace we ask heaven for during this season. Listen to this Meditation Media.
God Shows the Apostle John (and Us) A Glimpse of Heaven and His Throne The reading (not included within this audio) and the Gospel have a theme of showing us what is going to happen in the future.In the reading, the Apostle John is told by the Voice, come and I will show you what is going to happen (from the Book of Revelation). This passage is often mis-understood to be a mere prediction on how history will unfold. Far from it! There is nothing about the unfolding of history on earth that is included within the reading. We are told . . . let Me show you what is going to happen.The Lord Shows What Will HappenWe are given a look into what will happen. Furthermore, we must be careful when we read about this vision. Our language and our mind can only comprehend so much. This vision actually goes beyond what we can comprehend. Words cannot describe it completely.The human mind anticipates the future with signs of the end of the world, and all that entails. That is NOT what the Apostle John is shown. He is shown God on His throne and heavenly bodies praising Him. They are happy.There are four creatures who can see everything . . . interior and exterior of all they look at. Wow! What an odd image. These creatures can see everything! Yet they also continually, meaning without stopping, they sing the praises of the One on the throne. In seeing everything, they also see God. The see everything in light of their position before the throne. Hear more about the significance of these creatures within the Homily.Then we hear about the additional thrones surrounding THE Throne of God. Hear more about the elders on their thrones within the Homily.The Four Creatures Surrounding Christ’s ThroneThe Homily then discusses, briefly, Christ the King on His Throne showing 4 creatures around the Lord’s throne. Listen to understand this symbolism. Understand what it means to us and how it should influence our own spiritual life. Hear what God shows the Apostle John. Understand what the Lord is now telling us. Let Him show you how things will be!Listen to this Meditation Media.
Mary Helps Zacchaeus and Helps Us Get Close to Jesus In today’s reading (not included within this audio), we hear from the Book of Revelation.We hear about letters to the early Church. There are a series of seven letters to the Church in Asia Minor (present age Turkey). The letters address specific events within the communities. They also address universal tendencies that one finds throughout the body of Christ. The Homily references two of the seven letters, that focus on shortcomings and dangers facing these communities.Jesus tells the communities that the people appear to be alive . . . but they are not. Their goodness is dying. The Homily discusses what the Lord is saying. The people have cut themselves off from life. Hear more within the Homily.In the second letter, the Lord speaks to the next church. He does not discuss their wickedness. He actually, discusses something worse. Their luke-warmness is the focus of the Lord. This is one of the greatest dangers to the human heart. Understand how both of these letters impact us today!Zacchaeus Moves Ahead of the Crowd to See JesusIn the Gospel, the scripture passage occurs in Jericho. In Jericho, Jesus passes through the city and there are great crowds. The story is about Zacchaeus. He cannot see Jesus. He must move to get around the crowd . . . a sort of wall. Zacchaeus moves and climbs a tree to position himself to see the Lord. He gets ahead of the crowd. Zacchaeus wants to see Jesus. He runs and sees a tree which will lift him and ultimately see Jesus. Mary is the tree for all of us. She lifts us so that we can see Jesus.Hear how Mary helps us. Hear how Mary helps Zacchaeus and Helps Us Get Close to Jesus. Understand how he/we need to get ahead and move to be with Jesus. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Who is St. Elizabeth of Hungary and Why Is She Important to the Church? How long does a cut flower last? Days, weeks, longer?On this day we celebrate St. Elizabeth of Hungary. In our present day, Christians do not talk about this saint as much as other saints. Today, many Christians do not have a devotion to this saint.The Church requires the observance of this memorial. It is obligatory. Obligatory memorials are reserved for those that have had an important impact on the Church.Padre Pio’s memorial is not obligatory. St. Louis de Montfort and St. Faustina are two more examples of memorials which are NOT obligatory. Strange, but in two hundred years, people might say who is Padre Pio. Through the ages, saints who were popular, may not always be as popular or as well known.Years ago, it would be unthinkable to say that no one would know who St. Elizabeth of Hungary was to the Church. Yet, in today’s age, many do not know who is this saint!Hear about St. Elizabeth of Hungary and why she is important to the Church. Hear how she is connected to roses and flowers. Listen to this Meditation Media. Note: The Homily also discusses the reading about Revelation.
How Do We Retain the Word of God? The Homily begins mentioning the first reading (not included within this audio).The Apostle John has a revelation. Heavenly bodies tell John to pick up a small scroll . . . and eat it. In your mouth it will taste very sweet. Strangely, the Heavenly body then says . . . your stomach will not like it. But, go ahead and eat it. John then eats the scroll. It is indeed pleasant in the mouth, but unsettles the stomach.The Heavenly body then tells John . . . go and prophesy. That is, speak out of the bitterness of your stomach, by means of the sweetness of your mouth.In light of the upcoming Feast Day, Jesus Christ, the King of the Universe (see that Meditation on this site), the Homily goes further into what it means to receive the Word. What really does that mean?Have you ever had the experience of forgetting what was told to you in your daily life? Something told to you in the past . . . yesterday . . . even this morning . . . that may have been forgotten. How many things have we read, but can no longer recall? We all experience this in our daily lives!The Homily also briefly talks about Saints Peter and Paul. The Homily also talks about Jesus driving out the money changers in the temple.Receiving the Word has to be different for Christians. Hear how in our spiritual lives we must receive the Word, and retain it. How? Listen to this Meditation Media.
Jesus Christ, the King of the Universe Today, we celebrate a very special feast day.The Church celebrates Jesus Christ, the King. The more complete title is the Feast of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Pause for a moment and consider that title. Hear what St. Paul tells us. Understand what this title means by listening to the Homily.On this day the Church brings to a close the current liturgical year. The Church pauses and contemplates the Glorious Rule of Jesus, already in Heaven. A Rule that exists before there was an earth.What is the Church asking from us? Why is this feast important for our daily and spiritual life? Understand what we celebrate on this day.
What Does the Life to Come Look Like? It is NOT Just a Better Earthly Living!
What Does the Life to Come Look Like? . . .
Today, there is a parallelism between the first reading (not included within this audio) and the Gospel.
The first reading from the Book of Maccabees, is similar to the Gospel in that it involves seven brothers. The Maccabees story of the seven brothers is a remarkable story. One brother after another, placed before the king to do something against his religion . . . against God . . . refuses and are then tortured and killed. Seven brothers die for the sake of their faith. All are martyrs.
The Gospel is also about seven (hypothetical) brothers who also die. In this story, seven brothers die one after another. Each marries the wife of his brother. All have no children. This is a hypothetical as the Pharisees pose a question to Jesus. The commonality between these two situations involving seven brothers is the resurrection, and what that means.
The Church’s liturgical year is coming to an end in just a few weeks. It also reminds us that our life will also have an end . . . in the future. We are all reminded in early November to pray for the departed. We gather in our faith in the Resurrection, to pray for our deceased loved ones. It is wonderful that we take time today to also reflect on the Resurrection with the readings today.
. . . It is NOT Just a Better Earthly Living!
In the first reading of the brothers, they all say the same thing. You, O king, will torture me in this world. You will make things difficult for me, and even end my life . . . in this world. But this world, is not the great world. Each of the brothers say . . . I am living not merely for the continuation of my life in this world. I am living toward a life that will be given back to me in the world to come. You, O king, cannot rob me of that. And, I will not set that aside, for anything in this world. Hear more within the Homily.
Their faith in the Resurrection allows the brothers to make their testimony and willing give their lives for something greater. Not all of God’s people believed in the resurrection. The Jewish group, the Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection.
The hypothetical about the seven brothers in the Gospel hides something to the reader. What is the resurrection and the life to come? The life we look for and the resurrection is NOT looking for this life only better! We DO NOT look for a mere earthly paradise. It is not what we know, reproduced in a better form.
Jesus, in the Gospel, takes the idea off the table. He takes the idea that Heaven is merely a better extension of earthly living off the table. The life to come, the life of those that have risen in Glory, IS NOT a mere copy or improving of this world.
The Life to Come is Radically Different
The life to come is radically different. It will be radically better. So much radically better that we cannot truly imagine it! We are not built to accurately imagine heaven.
Jesus says when our deceased loved ones enter into Glory, it is so much better than an extension of earthly living.
Listen more to this Homily. Reflect on this Meditation Media.
Imitate the Person Who is Trying to Be Like Jesus!
The memorial celebrated this day is for St. Charles Borromeo.
He made a decision early within his life to be of service to the Church, rather than caring for his family’s considerable wealth. Uniquely, it was at the time of his own brother’s untimely death, that he made the final decision to become a priest. His brother was the heir to his family’s fortune. It was a bold move, because he was now the heir. He was set to inherit the title, the land and the wealth of his family. Understand why this is so remarkable by hearing more within the Homily.
At this time, he said he must belong to Jesus. St. Charles said that he must belong to the Church. He laid aside the wealth of the world for the sake of the flock of the Lord.
He was named Bishop only a few months after becoming a priest. One might think that happened so fast, because his uncle was Pope Pius IV. His “promotion” was actually due to his considerable talent. He had an ability; at exactly time the Church needed his talent. Not just to take care of a diocese. Charles was absolutely influential in restarting the Council of Trent. He insisted that the Church cannot let the mission of reform go unfinished. He insisted the people of God needed this reform within the Church.
. . . Who is Trying to Be Like Jesus If he just stopped there, his influence on the Church would still be deemed great. However, after the Council, he returned to his diocese in Milan, and immediately began implementing the Church’s reforms. Hear more about what he did and why the Church recognizes him as St. Charles Borromeo. St. Charles lived 1538 – 1584. For those living on Long Island, St. Charles Hospital in Port Jefferson, NY, was named after this saint. He was Beatified in 1602 and became a saint in 1610.
Amazingly, when the plague came, he ran toward the needy, the sick and the poor to feed and care for them. He was a shepherd amongst his flock. On his feast day, the Church takes the Good Shepherd Gospel from St. John. This Gospel paints an image of the Lord as the true and Good Shepherd. This Bishop imitates the Lord, and also becomes a shepherd. Listen to more within the Homily.
In the reading today (not included within this audio), St. Paul tells us to be imitators of me (Paul) as I am an imitator of Christ. In other words, don’t look to St. Paul because I am a great guy. Paul tells us this in his writings. Rather, I can show you an example to be like Jesus.
As you look around the world you will see many things. The Homily describes the many things you will see. St. Paul says, do not imitate them! Because there is nothing there worth imitating. If you are going to imitate anyone, imitate the person who is trying to be like Jesus.
Hear more within this Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Makes Friends with Dis-honest Wealth! What is Jesus Telling Us?
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us to make Friends with Dis-honest Wealth!
What is dis-honest wealth? Many will think of a bank robber. Christians may think of several Gospel passages that might fit the definition. Specifically, the money changers, the tax collector, or even the dis-honest steward. Is that what Jesus is talking about?
What is dis-honest wealth? And why should we make friends with it? What is Jesus telling us? Why is understanding this topic is so important to our Spiritual Life? Listen to this Meditation Media.
Understand How Death Needs to Impact Our Spiritual Life
There is a truth that is often off-putting. We are all, eventually, going to die.
It is a truth that the human heart often avoids. We do a lot to protect ourselves. We cloth ourselves in a way so that we do not get sick. We protect ourselves when we install security alarms. We visit doctors’ offices, especially as we get older. The Homily lists several other ways we protect ourselves.
We do all this protection, to keep us safe and to keep us alive. Yet we rarely reflect on death itself. It is inevitable, but we rarely meditate on this topic. The Church recognizes this as well. That is why we have All Souls Day.
It is a day where the Church puts before us the mystery of our own mortality. It does so against the horizon that we have all . . . loss someone. When we speak of death, we refer to it as loss of life. When someone passes, those that have been left behind say they have loss someone. When we gather at Mass, we hear about Jesus’ mission of saving those that are loss. Is that what he meant? Interesting! The Homily tells us more.
Just like us, when Jesus was born on Christmas Day, He began his movement . . . His journey to the grave. When He decided to take on our humanity, He decided to take on all of humanity, including death.
Death is in the world, on account of sin. In the case of Jesus, He embraces death, because He loves us! Note the two different views. On one hand death is a consequence … death is a punishment. Then there is God, who loves us to the point of death, and refuses to let us remain loss.
Hear more and understand how death needs to impact our spiritual life. Listen to what the Church actually gives us on All Souls Day. Hear more in this Meditation Media.
Jesus Tells Us That More is Happening Than Just Our Letting Go When Someone Dies
There is an ancient and beautiful prayer reflecting on the loss of a loved one and turning to God.
It begins beautifully. We seem to give them back to you O God . . . Who first gave them to us. We seem . . . The simple truth is God Who has given them . . . has never taken His hand off them. They have always been His.
The prayer catches a beautiful note on leave taking. We are saying good-bye. We are letting go. In a real way, especially as we accompany a person through the difficult stages of having a chronic illness, there is a lot of leave taking and saying good-bye.
Yet our Gospel reading (scripture of Jesus raising from the dead the only son of a mother) goes beyond this prayer and saying good-bye. In the Gospel, a remarkable scene is described, as a mother, friends and neighbors march in a funeral procession. They are shedding their tears of sadness and loss. They are crying their good-byes.
As they move forward, the Lord arrives. We do not reflect on this part of the scene enough. Precisely at the moment of leave taking, the Lord is pleased to introduce Himself. One of the powerful moments of a Funeral Mass, or Memorial Mass, is not merely a leave taking. It is the moment, in our grief and all that we have gone through, we encounter Christ. And, that changes things. When the Lord is present, everything becomes different.
The Lord Says There is More Happening Here Than You Realize
In the scripture, the Lord stops because He is moved. St. Luke points out that Jesus does not stop because of the young man. Our Lord is moved by the grief of the mourners, especially the mother. The Lord heard the weeping, and He stopped. The Lord tells the mother to stop crying. He is not saying, get over it. He did not say your tears have no value to Me. It is the Lord saying that there is more happening here than you realize. The Lord stops the movement of grief for a moment. He places His hand on the coffin. The Lord says, young man, I tell you, arise.
During this month in which we honor and pray for our deceased loved ones, hear what happens when Jesus arrives at a Memorial or Funeral Mass. Listen to this Meditation Media on what happens when a person dies.
What is Our Relationship With the Glorious Saints!
In speaking of devotion to the saints, it is important to understand who we are in the first place . . . and who they are in the second place.
Therefore, this All Saints Conference begins by looking at the Body of Christ itself.
Note the expression. The Church is the Mystical Body of Christ. St. Augustine helps us understand this expression further. He describes the whole Body of Christ this way. Jesus is the head. And we are the body’s members. Understand that there is a fundamental oneness. There is one life within the body. And that is the life of Jesus. There is a fundamental oneness with the shared life of Jesus. The conference further explains this idea.
Shared Life of Jesus This shared life has some properties we also need to understand. Despite the discussions one might hear in modern language about your relationship with Jesus, there is a fundamental truth. You do not have a relationship with Christ that is completely separate from mine.
It is important to comprehend this truth. Salvation doesn’t happen because Jesus saves me! Rather, I am saved because Jesus saves us! There is a difference.
Some Christians believe Jesus saves me, and Jesus saves others and somehow, we come together to form His body. No, that is not accurate. Jesus saves us, by making us His people . . . by making us His body. He doesn’t save people individually, then gathers them. He saves individuals by bringing them into His people. The conference goes into further details and explains why this truth is important. The conference explains how this truth helps explain who we are within the Church.
The Three Elements of the Body of Christ
When we die, we are still members of the body of Christ. Death changes the connection somewhat, but we remain a member. When we are live, we can physically touch and see one another. When we die, or connection changes . . . but we remain a member of the body.
Typically, we speak of three levels of the Church, or three elements of the Body of Christ. We speak of not different parts (like hands or feet), but different place where we find those parts. The three elements are the Church Triumphant, the Church Militant, and the Church Suffering.
The Church on Earth, for those that are physically alive, in the struggle for goodness on earth, are called the Church Militant. The conference explains this further. Not to be confused by using the word Militant. Hear more about with this means and why it is important to understand. The other two elements are also explained.
In doing battle within the struggle of good and evil on earth and have emptied themselves to worldly views. They have turned from sin and have lived their lives in terms of the Gospel. These people are what we call the saints. They are truly gloriously alive in heaven.
The saints are alive . . . they are not simply a memory of life from long ago. While they await full redemption of their bodies in heaven, they are gloriously alive before the throne of God in heaven. They remain members of the Church. Just as they were invested in the Body of Church when they were physically alive, the remain invested within the body now! They remain concerned with the well-being of their brothers and sisters in Christ.
Why Have a Devotion to Saints?
The conference’s focus is Our Relationship with the Glorious Saints! There are several questions that are reviewed including the following. Why would I have a devotion to the Saints? Why wouldn’t I just turn to Jesus? And several other questions about Saints are addressed. Understand why we turn to the Saints.
The Glory of God is the Human Person Fully Alive. Wow! What a statement. What does it mean and what how do the saints impact this statement?
Hear more about saints and what they actually mean to us! Before you have a devotion to the saints, they have turned to us first! Listen to this important conference on Saints and how they interact with us!
All Saints and Holiness
All Saints Day. Today the Church honors All Saints.
We, of course, know about many of the saints. Only God knows all of the saints. Therefore, the Church sets aside this day to honor All Saints . . . past and present. In English, people normally associate Sainthood with Holiness. Christians normally associate holiness with people who lived long ago. Yet, the Catholic Church tells us our vocation, without exception, is our own call to holiness.
Listen to what we celebrate on this day and how it must . . . must . . . impact our own holiness and spiritual life.
November: Earning a Plenary Indulgence For Our Deceased Loved Ones
Today’s Gospel explains why we should pray . . .
. . . for our deceased loved ones. Why is that important? Why is praying today for someone who died recently, or decades ago, so important?
The Church opens its treasury from November 1st through and including November 8th, as described within this Homily. The power of prayer is explained for our deceased loved ones. What is an indulgence? What is a plenary indulgence? Why is it important?
Christians may say . . . I go to confession. I do not need to do this! Wrong! Understand what eternal salvation requires and the gaining entry into heaven means. We know we are sinners. So, what is the differences in confession and what is needed after confession? Why is it important to gain a plenary indulgence for our deceased loved ones?
After listening to the Homily, take a look at the pdf file (on the website) that explains the conditions and prayer needed to potentially earn a plenary indulgence during this octave!
Listen to this Meditation Media.
Have more questions? Look at this post which lists frequently asked questions about this topic on the website.
Lord, When Someone is Sick or Terrible Things Happen to Them . . . What Did They Do to Deserve This?
Have you ever experienced a rough patch or a miserable time?
Have you then ever asked . . . what did I ever do to deserve this? Today’s Gospel answers these questions!
In the Gospel, people reported to Jesus about a tragedy that had happened. The question that lingers is . . . what did they do to bring this upon themselves? It’s a question almost everyone has . . .when something terrible happens. Its not normally a question one askes about another . . . it normally is asked when bad things happen . . . .to us.
A few generations ago, there was an American-Protestant Work Effort. It came from a certain strain of Protestant thinking. The idea was that before you were born . . . before any single individual was born . . . they were pre-destined either for Heaven . . . or for Hell.
The idea was you would experience and move through life . . . but the end result was predestined. People would go through life looking for signs on whether they were going the right way. To see if they were on the right path. The signs they looked for were material prosperity, or blessings. So, what did people do? They worked very hard to obtain the sign(s) they were moving the right way!
Note the attitude and thought process! If you were blessed . . . it must say something about how good you are! If you were prosperous, clearly God’s favor is upon you! The implication is if you were not, that you know what that means! Hear more within the Homily.
If you know hardship, there must be something wrong with you! If you bear the cross of illness, then it must mean there is something wrong with you! Furthermore, if your business fails . . . there is something wrong with you! If your marriage fails . . . there must be something wrong with you!
. . . What Did They Do to Deserve This?
This is the issue that Jesus addresses in the Gospel. Two thousand year before the American-Protestant Work Effort movement . . . Jesus addresses these thoughts and statements! Funny, humans forget this . . .the statements Jesus tells us!
For most of Human History, almost every culture in the world viewed the ideas endorsed by the A-P Work Effort movement. The weak, the sick, the sufferings are looked upon as though their value is less, and your life is not as good because you are not successful.
Jesus, in the Gospel, speaks to this reality. A reality that is all to alive . . .even today. Interesting: The single highest occurrence or reason stated in assisted suicide is not because of the suffering. It’s because they do not want to be a burden. They identify themselves as nothing more than a burden.
Jesus Answers These Questions
It’s the same attitudes that are lingering with the questions that are brought to Jesus in the Gospel. Jesus answers these questions! Jesus says if you think you are well off is a sign that God loves you . . . you are wrong. If you think people who experience bad things are not loved by God . . . you are wrong. If you think one group of people are more guilty than another because something terrible happened to them . . .you are wrong!
The only thing you can take away from these terrible things is people do not know when their lives will be taken from them. So, what are you doing with your life?
The Lord Himself shows us the importance of this Gospel on Good Friday. How are they connected? This is explained within the Homily.
With this context, listen to the Gospel and Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Persistence in Prayer. Moses Gives a Lesson For Us Today!
In the first reading today (not included within this audio), we hear about Moses and the battle with the Amalekites.
We all heard this story in which Joshua leads men into battle. Moses, who is not a traditional soldier, climbs the mountain and holds up his arms and prays to heaven. Even in battle, there are times when there are more important things than just the soldiers.
As long as Moses prayed with his arms held high, the Israel warriors had the advantage. When his arms grew tied, the enemy were on the advantage. Moses would have two assistants, Hur and Aaron, help him hold and pray throughout the day.
The lesson: there is something more important than the skill, the strength, and the talent of the warrior. It is not that these characteristics are unimportant. It is that something else is more important. Moses stretches his hands out as the people struggle.
This is important to us. This story is not just a history lesson from many centuries ago. It impacts us today! We all struggle too. We struggle with the challenges of life. Moses could not pray to heaven . . . alone. He cannot do it by himself.
The warriors are out supporting the people. Moses supports the warriors with his prayers. And someone also needs to support Moses. Note what scripture is telling us! No one person can do it all! No single person is complete or sufficient by himself or herself.
Pray Regularly . . . and Be Persistent
The Gospel teaches us a similar lesson. It teaches us to pray regularly, without becoming weary. The Gospel parable today is about the corrupt judge. So, what does that have to do with prayer? The Lord is talking about what we experience . . . even today!
When we pray, we often worry about not being heard. We worry about not being listened to in our prayer. We very often worry about asking . . . and not receiving!
These insecurities about praying to God are common. We often ask ourselves what good is it. Maybe I should just stop praying. Again, these are common experiences and thoughts.
The Homily walks through the scriptures and provides a lesson for our own prayer life. If persistence wears down the judge in the parable, how much will persistence do for someone that is good and faithful. Persistence does something for us! Hear more within the audio.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Martyrs That Were Ready . . .
In today’s Gospel, Jesus talks of a heavy beating and a light beating. Oh My! The Gospel is very appropriate today as the Church celebrates the special memorial of the Canadian martyrs. These martyrs are like the wise stewards that Jesus speaks about in the Gospel.
Jesus Christ Must Be Made Known
Jesus Christ Must Be Made Known. This was the reason Saints Isaac Jogues, Jean de Brébeuf, and Companions came to the new world . . . to New France in Canada.
In today’s world, we do not speak always about evangelism this way. We may talk about bringing someone to Church . . . or to the faith. Which is great. However, these men made the long journey across dangerous waters (around 1636). Why? Because Jesus Christ must be made known.
Fr. Brébeuf in one of his journals, pauses in his writings and turns prayerfully to Jesus. He talks of the stirring tug in his heart toward martyrdom. He is aware that it is a real possibility for him. And there is something inside him that actually desires it. He desires it because of the way it will unite him with Jesus. In speaking this way to Jesus, the priest also says he has a great sorrow in his heart. A sorrow that Jesus is not known throughout the world! What a remarkable statement! Hear more within the Homily.
The Servant That Is Always Ready
In the Gospel today, we hear a watchful steward is vigil. The story is about a steward waiting for the return of the master. When a vigil servant is ready, it is not as important when the master returns. He is always ready. However, oh the servant that is not ready.
Listen and understand how we must be prepared spiritually. Understand how the saints we honor on this day were ready for their hour. Hear more about the Martyrs that were ready. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Martyrdom of Father Isaac Jogues S.J. Engraving by A. Malaer. Our thanks for the use of this engraving.
Jesus Comes With A Fire Within. Understand How This Shapes Our Own Spiritual Journey
Jesus Comes With A Fire Within . . .
Today’s Gospel has shockingly sharp words that Jesus uses within this scripture passage.
The Gospel is Jesus telling all that he comes to bring division. A family of 5, 3 against 2. A Father against his son, and a son against his father, etc. Jesus says he has a desire to bring fire into the world. He longs for the fact that it is still not blazing. Wow! What a series of statements.
In speaking this way, Jesus reminds us He has come for a reason. The reason for His Coming is so great, it pulls Him out of Heaven. Reflect on that for a moment.
Most of us do not spend enough time reflecting on the desire that animates Jesus. We do not reflect on the longing that animates Jesus. Jesus’ longing is not merely a longing for us. It is a longing to give himself. Jesus desires to set the entire world on fire. It is not a destructive burning. Hear more within the Homily.
. . . Understand How This Shapes Our Own Spiritual Journey
Jesus speaks of the Baptism that He longs for to occur. He doesn’t say that it must happen. He says His heart is anguished until it is completed. Of course, He is referring to His Passion.
Jesus has a fire within Him. He has a heat burning inside. He has a fire for the salvation of the world. A heat for the Glory of God. He longs to be the living flame of sacrifice.
Hear more on what Jesus means when He talks about division of the world and division within the family. It is not division for the sake of division.
Jesus did not come so we would have peace with the world. He came, so that we may have peace with God. Reflect on that. Understand what He means within this scripture passage and what it means for our spiritual journey.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
Today’s Gospel Is The Only Place In Scripture Where Jesus Says Who His Mother, Mary, Really Is!
The Gospel we hear today starts with a Women in the Crowd praising the Lord with a compliment . . . Blessed is the womb that bore you.
Jesus replied, . . . Rather, blessed are those that hear the word of God and observe it.
If a survey was possible asking Christians what their favorite Gospel reading are, it is unlikely today’s passage would rank very high. And that would be a shame. The passage we hear today is short, but important. It is the one spot in all of the Gospels where Jesus speaks directly about His mother. Now, that is important to understand!
This Gospel reading is the one place where Jesus speaks to all of us . . . about who His mother really is! The context is fascinating! He has been preaching. And those that listen to Him are deeply moved.
In the congregation is a woman listening to Him. She is so moved; she cries out those words (see above). She is touched by His words, His goodness and His authority. What does she do? In today’s culture, when someone does something very well, often people say that s/he’s mother and father would be very proud of you!
The woman does something similar. She praises the Mother of Our Lord! How wonderful your mother must be, to give us a Son like You. How delighted she must be with You! It is very high praise for both Jesus and Our Lady. Hear more within the Homily.
If it was any one of us, we would probably say . . . thank you. That is NOT what Jesus says! He says, no do not say that! He says . . . say something else!
If we hit pause here, we could ask several questions! Is Jesus saying, do not celebrate Mary? Is He saying, do not praise Mary? No, that is what it looks like at first glance . . . if we quickly read the passage. That is NOT what Jesus is saying!
Learn what Jesus says about His Mother, Mary! For those that follow Montfortian Spirituality, understand what Jesus says directly about His Mother! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Why is Martha Burden With The Serving? What Is the Holy Spirit Telling Us?
The Gospel story today is about Martha and her sister Mary in the presence of the Lord.
Martha asks the Lord to tell Mary to help her with the serving of the house guests. We all have heard this story before. As is often the case, however, when we reflect upon this reading, the reflection turns to the defense of Martha. And that is dangerous!
The Holy Spirit has given us this story in the Gospel for a reason. Many often look at their own busyness, at the expense of engaging the Gospel and at the expense of our peace. It points out how difficult our hearts can be when confronted with truths that are inconvenient.
We do well to pay attention to how this story unfolds. The Lord is not saying to avoid your household responsibilities . . . or your work. But . . . it is the Gospel that states those things have a real limit. And we need to pay attention to that!
Notice what we hear. Martha is BURDEN with much serving. It begs the question . . . just who it is that has burden Martha? Jesus did not ask her! What is it about the serving that burdens her? Martha cannot see what is burdening her.
What a powerful question it is for us when we look at our own lives and experience our own specific burden . . . our own busyness . . . of being worried.
In light of this Homily, meditate on this Gospel. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
Our World is Afflicted with the Inability to See the Fundamental Dignity of the Living
Our World is Afflicted with the Inability to See . . .
The readings today focus on how clearly, we see.
How good is our vision? It is an important question as the Shrine prepares for its Novena for Life. The so called “Pro-Life” movement can be vulnerable to is a certain kind of tunnel vision. Vulnerable to a certain form of selective seeing. This is not surprising . . . since the human heart has been inflicted by this since the beginning of time.
The Homily today focuses not on the shallow sense of Pro-Life that is bantered about in political debates. The focus is not on the shallow sense of defense of life that reduces itself to slogans.
The Homily deals with the fundamentally Christian sense of respect for life that starts someplace else. It is a deeper and much more challenging thing.
The responsorial song today (not included within the audio) is the Magnificat. It is a marvelous hymn that Our Lady, full of divine life, sings. Note what she says: …. because He has looked upon me. He does not look upon Our Lady in her virtues. He has looked upon me in my lowliness.
In speaking this way Our Lady rejoices with the life she carries within her. She also gives voice as well to that great sense of wonderment that has been with the people of God since the beginning.
. . . the Fundamental Dignity of the Living The Lord says in Deuteronomy, I didn’t choose you because you were great or had potential. I chose you because you were the lowest of all beings. I chose you because I love you and give my heart to you. The Lord says this . . . not about the child in the womb. He says this to and about people who have already been born.
Our world is afflicted with the inability to see the fundamental dignity of the living. Not just the living unborn . . . but the living born as well. That hole in the heart of man leads to the diminishment of the dignity of life. When we cheapen the life of those that we see, how easy it is to cheapen the life hidden in the womb.
The Gospel today is the story of you did not feed or cloth me when I was hungry or naked. A familiar story. Listen to it within the context of the focus on life.
Hear more about this topic that is challenging and beautiful. Understand how the Lord sees our lowliness. Understand how the Lord sees all of us! Listen to this Meditation Media.
St. Paul Reminds the Church in His Writing Not to Be Influenced by the Crowd Way of Thinking …
Have you ever been (or seen another) pressured to act in a way that is uncharacteristic?
Have you ever been tempted to do or say or try something . . . but you stop, because you wondered about what people might think?
The first reading (not included within this audio) is about that! St. Paul was writing to a Church. A group of believers were beginning to set down what was right and what was good. These believers wrote that others need to pray and practice “like we do”. This led to some self-centeredness. Those who worship differently are “not good enough”. It subsequently became a real problem for the Church. The problem spilled out to other towns and cities. To the same places where St. Paul was also writing. It led to some groups saying, “we are the better ones, and you are not”.
While the practices’ focus on Jewish practices, the problem boils down as one group saying they were better than others. That only they could tell others the “right way”. This worried the leaders of the Church. Hear more within the Homily.
. . . Not to Be Influenced by the Crowd Way of Thinking … St. Paul writes from the standpoint that he will be the guy who says something about these groups. In doing so, there are people that approach St. Paul saying . . . why don’t you do what we do!
St. Paul’s answer . . . no I will not! Because it will not be real. I’ll be living a fake life . . . if I worried what you think of me! I could never live a fake life because of what someone may or may not say about me. You’ll have me not do certain good things for people . . . because others do not like them! Jesus did not call me (St. Paul) for that!
Paul went to certain Apostles to remind them of what Jesus wants . . . and not what the crowd wants. The opposite of freedom is being afraid. Afraid of what the crowd thinks.
St. Paul reminds the Church as to what the Church is really about. He reminds them of what Jesus did for them! He reminds them the Holy Spirit wants all to be free. To follow Jesus’ teachings and not be influenced how another . . . or how a crowd thinks. St. Paul Reminds the Church in His Writing Not to Be Influenced by the Crowd Way of Thinking … If It Is Not Based Upon Jesus’ Teachings.
Listen to the Gospel, when Jesus tells His Apostles how to pray. Listen to this Meditation Media.
A Priest’s Garments . . . A Sign to the People and A Sign To What a Priest Is All About
Depending upon the liturgical season, one might see the outer vestment of a priest and possibly remark how striking it is.
But most people may not see or understand all the components of the vestments and the symbols they represent.
A priest’s garments are a sign to the people and a sign to what priesthood is all about. Listen to this vestment explanation within this six-minute audio. Listen to this Meditation Media.
What Do I Take Back Home After Mass?
What do you take back home with . . . after Mass?
This is not a normal question we ask ourselves. We come to Mass to hear the Word, and to receive the gift of the Holy Eucharist. But what do we leave Mass with . . . what do we take back home from Mass?
Listen to this Homily and ask yourself . . . What Do I Take Back Home After Mass?
Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary . . . Understanding the Real Secret of the Rosary
The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary has a remarkable history . . .
. . . in its connection with the Battle of Lepanto. The battle secured Europe’s Christendom on October 7, 1571. This victory was preceded by a call from the Holy Father the Pope to the entire European Church to pray the Rosary. While there was not a universal response to the call, there was a widespread response. The faithful gathered in parishes to call upon the intercession of Our Blessed Lady for the defense of the faith and the Church. Hear more about this historic event.
Originally, the feast day was called the Feast of Our Lady of Victory. It later was shifted to honor the means of the victory and was named the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. That shift was both good and bad. Hear more within the Homily.
The Rosary is a powerful prayer. But if we are not careful, it gives us the wrong starting point. The Rosary has a real power and effectiveness when we call upon the Lord, through Our Lady. The Secret of the Rosary, as St. Louis de Montfort tells us, is a secret of a different kind.
The Secret is not . . . if you want your prayers answered, use this tool. It’s really good! If you really want to understand this Feast day you have to lay aside the tendency to promote the Rosary in terms of answered prayers.
Listen to the real meaning of this feast day. Understand the real Secret of the Rosary . . . as per St. Louis de Montfort.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
St. Therese, The Little Flower. Why Does She Have This Title?
The Little Flower only lived for twenty-four years.
However, you would be hard pressed to not find this saint’s image (painting, window or statue) in today’s parishes. She is recognized, not only for her sainthood, but for her Holiness. She is one of only a few Doctors of the Church. When she wrote, she would describe things in spiritual terms very simplistically, so they may be understood.
But why is she known as The Little Flower? In this audio, listen to more about St. Therese. Hear more about her spiritual writings and understand why she is so important to the Church. Why should we care? What impact does she have on our Spiritual Journey?
Hear more about this Little Flower within this Meditation Media.
If You Had the Faith the Size of a Mustard Seed . . .
Lord, increase our faith!
Jesus then says, if you had the faith the size of a mustard seed … What exactly does Jesus mean when he tells the parable of the mustard seed? How do we really increase our faith? Listen to this Meditation Media on this parable.
The Roles of Angels in the Coming of Christ Into the World
What was The Role Played by the Angels in the Coming of Christ into the World?
As we celebrate angels, have you ever meditated on that topic? When we concentrate on how angels are involved within sacred scripture, when we understand them, our reading and our meditation becomes different.
A classic example is the angel that comes to bring comfort to the Lord during the Agony in the Garden (see this beautiful painting here). One angel out of many angels takes on this great mission. When we meditate on it, we understand how great a moment this really is in scripture. Our appreciation for this moment in the life of Christ becomes deeper and fuller.
The Lord Tells Us About the Angels During at His Second Coming
The Lord refers to angels a number of times when He preaches. When Our Lord preaches about His Second Coming, the Lord will be surrounded by angels. When He speaks of the time when everything is brought to completion, He speaks of the angels going out and gathering. During the time of the Final Judgement, the angels are also present. Hear more about the angels and the Second Coming.
Our Guardian Angel
Between now and then, the Lord speaks of the angels in a different way. He speaks of their care of the fragile, the weak, and the vulnerable. The Lord tells us that we need to make sure we do not bring the little ones to harm or to sin. He tells us that their guardian angel stands before the face of God.
Meditate on that. Our guardian angel, who watch over the little ones, the weak, and the frail readily stands before the face of God! Wow! What an image! Hear more in this media.
Guardian angels watch over us individually. You and I have a guardian angel! How do we know this? In several areas, but the audio cites passages from Psalm 91. Do you remember the Guardian Angel prayer? The prayer is unpacked as to its meaning within the audio. Listen to the prayer and the Psalm about angels.
The Choirs of Angels are Briefly Discussed
Understanding each of the nine levels of angels is not as important as to understand their function or the nine different ways they are involved. In another conference this was discussed and is briefly recapped here.
The first tier of angels • The first choir: the Angel. Angel means messenger. The ordinary messenger has an ordinary way of caring for us. Listen to more. • For a weightier message, there is the Archangel. These are angels as well, but a bit higher. These are entrusted with something weightier. • The Principalities are the angels that, under the direction of the Dominions, directly watch over large groups and institutions, including nations and the Church.
The second and third tiers of angels. Listen to the audio as each angel type in the other two tiers are listed: The Virtues, The Power, The Dominions, The Seraphim, The Cherubim and The Thrones. Why is knowing the above important? The spiritual masters talk of the nine ways of service to the Lord that come to us through the angels. Listen to hear more.
When Jesus rises on Easter morning, we see the empty tomb, with two angels. When Jesus ascends to Heaven, an angel speaks to the Apostles. What is that significance? Hear more within the media. Listen to this conference on The Role of Angels throughout the life of Jesus on earth, and during His Second Coming. Consider how Angels are woven into the scripture passages, and how the angels impact our lives. Imagine the voices of all the angels praising God. Imagine the greatness of God who created the angels. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Q&A Session
At the end of the session, a number of Questions were asked. While you hear the response, you might not hear the actual question. See the website post for the questions.
St. Louis de Montfort: Apostle of the Cross
Often Christians take sound bites or certain events from the life of a saint and focus on that event without appreciating the fullness of grace the Lord gave to the holy man or women.
In today’s world, St. Louis de Montfort is often referred to as the Consecration Saint. And while it is true, many Christians do not know about the fuller life of this holy man. When Montfort died, he was known as The Apostle of the Cross and the Apostle of the Rosary (in that order). On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, this conference was held to kick off the yearlong celebration of St. Louis de Montfort’s life.
Without understanding his title of Apostle of the Cross, and his understanding of the Mystery of the Cross, there is no understanding his devotion to Mary. There is no understanding of his beautiful writings on Consecration. In his writings, Montfort will tell us that the Cross is the subject of adoration . . . Our Lady is not. Note the difference. Adoration is given to Jesus. But why the Cross? Because the Cross is soaked with the blood of Jesus.
Listen to this Conference about St. Louis de Montfort: Apostle of the Cross. Gain insights about the man who would go on to write and author spirituality texts about Our Lord and Our Lady.
What Are We Really Celebrating On the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows?
The Feast we celebrate today is Our Lady of Sorrows.
The feast may be summarized within two verses of a song sang that day. Is there anyone who would not weep? Upon looking at her, is there anyone who would not weep?
Can the human heart refrain from the Blessed Mother’s pain? These are two verses from a song for the day. However, the truth is many Christians do not participate. In easy for Christians to live in indifference for all that Christ has done for us. It is easy to live and not be moved by all what Christ has done for us . . . when we do not think of His suffering for us!
It is easy for Christians to say Jesus has saved me but live in a way that indicates we do not believe that. We can be numb to what the Lord has done for us. We often do not appreciate what He did for all of us! Hear more in the homily.
This Feast is on the Catholic Calendar to address these issues. We look upon Our Lady . . . and see her tears, her grief . . . as a way to understand what the Lord has done for us!
Hear what we actually celebrate on this Feast Day. Appreciate what the Lord has done for us! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Some of the Gestures and Symbolisms of the Mass
Why do we bless ourselves before the Gospel?
We make a specific gesture immediately before the Gospel reading. Why? Hear more in the Homily given to pilgrims from a Catholic School.
Why does a priest use the Chalice? Can the priest use an ordinary cup? The answer is no, because there are specific Mass rules that prevent that. Hear more in the Homily.
Why do priests prepare the altar the way they do? What is the name of the cloth the priest spreads on the altar just before placing the chalice down? What does it do? And, what prayers are said by the priest as they prepare the altar?
Why is water added to the wine? What does the water represent? During Mass the priest extends his peace. But it is not his peace that he is extending. Understand the importance of the peace gesture.
Listen to the explanation of several steps within the Mass. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Note: the full Mass has been edited. The audio contains only the instructive and explanation portions of the Mass.
The Accounting the Lord Will Look for Us on Judgement Day
Today’s lesson from the Gospel may be at first a strange lesson.
The Gospel tells the story about the steward who was not kind to the servants. When the master returns, he tells the steward to make an accounting . . . because he can no longer remain his steward.
Scripture continues and the steward brings in all who owed something to the master. He tore up notes and had them write new promissory notes for a lower amount. The steward did this to gain favor with the people who owed a sum to the master.
The Lesson: How the Faithful Often Take for Granted the Gift of Our Salvation
Now Jesus could have told His disciples about holy men, but the Lord praises a man that we would classify a thief or criminal. The lesson the Lord wishes to speak about is how the faithful often take the gift of our salvation for granted. In taking our salvation for granted, we squander this gift.
So. the Lord tells us the story of the steward. He has not been faithful. He is a man who has been given a significant responsibility and that normally means he is trustworthy and has the character to perform such duties. The master then hears about the steward, who has not been performing in good faith. The master trusts the steward to do the job and does not. In fact, he has enriched himself, and taken value away from the master’s estate.
The owner then says, there must be an accounting of your responsibilities. The steward realizes . . . he is in trouble. The horizon that Jesus is speaking is not merely an earthly deadline. He uses this as an example. Faced with an earthly deadline, the steward will try anything to make it right. Hear more within the Homily.
Everyone Will Face an Accounting
Jesus reminds His disciples that you have been given much and have been trusted with much. The disciples have been given gifts to be used on behalf of the One Who gave them. Eventually, there is a calling to go over the books. Eventually, everyone is called into the office to review the books … to review how the gifts given were used on behalf of the Lord.
Have we used the gifts we have been given wisely? Have I squandered it? Or have I neglected it? Have I missed used these gifts? The Lord calls out the steward. The steward realized he misused the trust of the master. He decides to misuse it some more and writes lower promissory notes.
Jesus marvels at the industriousness of the steward.
Hear more about the heavenly ledger. Hear more about the day of judgement and the lessons of the Gospel. Understand the difference between honest and dishonest wealth. Hear about the accounting the Lord will look for us on judgement day. Listen to the Meditation Media.
Christians are Called to Be Better …
In St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians (not included within this audio), we hear about the early Christian Community. St. Paul tells us they play favorites among the ministers. The community are quick to take legal actions against one another on events that do not necessarily require those actions.
It is as though St. Paul is holding up a mirror. Those struggles the Church has wrestled with over the centuries. St. Paul includes in his letter . . . I write this to shame you. He tells the community you are better than this. You are called to be better than this.
One of the essences of Christian life is that . . . Christian life is supposed to be better than what we see in the world around us. We are all called to be better. Hear more within the Homily.
St. Paul asks what are you doing . . . to the early community. Rather than working things out between believers, there is the tendency to take disputes to the judges of the world. One might say that today’s age there is little difference.
St. Paul is not dismissing government or the courts. But he warns us to be careful on what actions we take against each other. Again, he reminds us to be better.
The unjust ways of the world are not the ways of Jesus Christ. Heaven doesn’t open to those who are quick to be unjust against another. Heaven will open to those who suffer. But will not open to those who practice being unjust.
Listen to the Homily to hear multiple lessons that St. Paul and the Lord leaves us. Hear more about our call to be better.
The Commissioning of the Apostles . . . The Birth of The Church
In today’s Gospel, we hear, like Moses, Jesus goes up into the mountain. When He returns, He has something. He does not have a stone tablet. He has the names of the twelve apostles. Of all the disciples that were following Him, He asks twelve to come forward. Up until this point, these twelve were not Apostles. Yet, now they are, because He calls them. In doing so, he announces the Church. Apostles . . . meaning those who are sent. He is sending them with His authority.
This is a powerful Gospel, because in reading it one witnesses the birth of the Church. It is good that the reading and the Gospel are together. We are called in Christian life to be better. The Apostles, as are we, are called to spread the Gospel to the world.
Hear more in this Meditation Media.
Do You Really Want External Happiness? Do You Really Want to Be a Disciple?
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us who can be His disciples . . . who can follow Him.
The Gospel begins with a great crowd following Jesus. Jesus at times in scripture leaves a message for the entire world. In this case the message was directed to the crowd following Him . . . who have been moving with Jesus.
This crowd has been growing in numbers . . . and Jesus addresses this crowd saying now you are ready for what I have to say to you. The Gospel teaches us . . . who is my disciple? A disciple is a follower. What does it really mean to be a follower of Jesus? What does it mean to be a disciple? Jesus tells us. Hear more in the Homily.
Part of discipleship requires a personal investment of oneself. If you want to be the Lord’s disciple, you must choose a way. Hear more about what it means to be a true disciple and follower of Jesus.
How Should We Live In The Horizon of the Second Coming? . . . I Listen So I May See
Listen and you will see.
Hear, and you will see. The senses are connected, but we do not typically think about that in our daily lives. I need to bend my ear to listen. But the fruit of listening, is the ability to see clearly. I am then able to see rightly. How is this connected, and how does it impact our spiritual journey? Listen to the Homily.
St. Paul in the reading (not included within this audio), and the Gospel, through his words, and the Lord’s, asks and tells us something. How do we see and know where we are?
It is common to think, there is no one that understands my life better than me. Often that is not true. Sometimes, we do not know ourselves, our family and our friends as well as we thought we did. That we may not fully appreciate our situation. We see what we convince ourselves is really there.
To really know our lives, we need to let someone else direct us.
St. Paul speaks to the community. The community is wrestling with an issue. The issue, living in the horizon of the second coming of the Lord. This world, and the order of this world, is passing away. And therefore, how do we respond? St. Paul tells us . . . no one says the world will end tomorrow. You must live your holy lives.
But Paul goes on to say, that we must be on guard as to not lose our selves and bury our heads into the things of this world. Hear more in the Homily about what St. Paul tells the community . . . and us!
St. Paul describes how we should live in this odd moment of time . . . that marks Christian life. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
The Lesson for Us of the Parable of the Prodigal Son … and 9/11
In today’s Gospel we hear three parables, The Lost Sheep, The Lost Coin, and the parable of the Lost Son … the parable of the Prodigal Son.
The homily touches upon the first two parables, and explores the third in detail. We all know this parable. However, Christians often miss what Our Lord is really saying in this parable. Listen to this story within the context of this Homily.
On a day we celebrate the remembrance of those impacted on the anniversary of the September 11th’s events, understand what the lesson teaches us … especially on this day of remembrance.
At the end of the Homily, the cross you see in the picture … made from the actual steel from the fallen towers, was used to bless those in attendance.
Listen to how the parables and their lesson impacts our spiritual journey.
The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Maria Bambina
It is important not to overlook the simple joys of life.
We celebrate today the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a day of joy. Life is beautiful. It is often overlooked. Life is joyous. The first gift we all receive on our birthday, is the gift of having been born. Hear more about this joy in the Homily.
The Church celebrates today one of three birthdays. Of all the holy men and women, the Church celebrates only three earthly birthdays. Saints are celebrated, normally on their birth into Heaven. The Church only celebrates three humans’ birthdays on earth; Our Lady, Our Lord on December 25th, and . . . St. John the Baptist (in June). Hear more in the Homily on why this is true.
On the Day Our Lady Was Born Our birthdays bring joy … to our families, and to the heart of God. Wow! Consider that!
On the day Our Lady was born, and she opened her eyes, it was the first time someone without sin, and full of grace, looked upon the world. A look without sin. What she must have seen, is amazing! Hear more in the Homily!
Holy Mary, Cause of Our Joy. Hear more about this title of Our Lady in the Homily.
Hear about the Maria Bambina image, as we celebrate The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The image comes to Long Island for the first time from Milan, Italy.
Before We Turn to the Lord, Jesus Sees Us!
In the book of Genesis, Jacob rested under the open sky.
On that night he had a dream in which he saw a golden ladder extending from heaven to earth. On top of the ladder was the Lord. Ascending and descending on the ladder were the Angels of God. Awaking the next morning, Jacob erected an altar and he prayed. He named the place Bethel . . . House of God, the very gate of heaven.
The homily sets the tone in describing this dream, because Jesus references it in today’s Gospel. Jesus references it as He speaks to Bartholomew, also named Nathaniel. Our Lord tells Nathaniel, . . . you will see . . . Jesus says it will not be a dream, but you will see it. You will see heaven opened. You will see the Angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.
Nathaniel, as Jesus tells us, will see a reality that is more real than what Jacob saw in his dream. Hear more what Jesus tells Nathaniel within the Homily.
Think about it. If Jacob awakes and says this is the gate of heaven, understand what the Lord is saying. He is the gate to heaven!
The Homily continues and discusses the first reading (not included within this audio). The new Jerusalem is a city which comes from heaven. This is the Church. In the Homily the Apostles are discussed as the foundation for this new city. Their names are listed above the twelve gates of the city.
Lord, How Do You Know Me?
Nathaniel is one of those twelve stones which serve as the foundation for the Church and the new Jerusalem. Why does Jesus tell this to Nathaniel? First, Philip tells Nathaniel we have found the one Moses tells us about . . . the Lord. Philip says . . . come and see. You have to see for yourself. If you want to see the One who the prophets spoke, you must come and see Him.
Nathaniel goes to see the Lord, and the Lord sees Nathaniel approach. As soon as Nathaniel is in ear shot, Jesus speaks. The word of Christ seeks Nathaniel. Here is a true son of Israel.
Nathaniel says, we are just meeting. We have not even been introduced. How do you know me? And Jesus explains, before Philip called you, I knew you.
We reflect very little on how the Lord knows us! Before we turn to the Lord, He sees us! He knows us!
Hear how the lesson of Nathaniel impacts our own Spiritual Journey! Understand the message for us in today’s Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
You Do Not Need to Be Frightened About Jesus’ Second Coming!
The readings today talk about a certain kind of blindness ... spiritual blindness.
In the first reading (not included within this audio) St. Paul tells us something in one of his letters. He writes something disturbing, that has plagued Christians since the very beginning. That is, a pre-occupation of the day of the Lord’s return. Paul writes about “self-appointed prophets” that announce the return of the Lord will happen soon. St. Paul tells us this has been going on since his day. Even some of these prophets signed St. Paul’s name to the announcement.
On one hand, it is understandable. The Lord Himself promised that He will return. Humans do not like it when we do not have all the answers. So, there are these “self-appointed prophets” that proclaim a message. The Lord has refused to tells when this will occur. He refuses to provide us with those details. Unfortunately, this sets up some within the community to a certain type of “fear based preaching”. Hear more within the Homily.
We see this in the modern age. Every certain number of years there is a voice making an announcement that the Lord will be here soon . . . or on a specific date. This type of preaching creates a spiritual upsetment within the faithful.
Seeing this, Paul wants to set the record straight. This involves two things. First, Paul tells the community to discern rightly. Not everyone that claims the title of prophet, a person that claims the mantel of holiness, is really wearing it.
Paul says the second thing to consider is . . . so what? So what if Jesus is coming soon! Paul tells us, you should be ready for that already.
You Do Not Need to Be Frightened!
You do not need to be frightened! Furthermore, you certainly do not need to be frightened into doing something a Christian should be doing all along.
If you hold on to your faith . . . and live your faith, St. Paul tells us, we will be just fine. Do not lend yourself an ear toward the speculative of what might happen tomorrow if Jesus returns. Do not listen to that spirituality, says St. Paul. And do not live in the light of speculative preaching. You shouldn’t need a warning to live and hold on to the scripture and traditions the Church and our Lord gives you.
The Church looks forward to His Coming, not with fear, but joyful anticipation. Hear more within the Homily.
Listen to more of You Do Not Need to Be Frightened! Hear more within this Meditation Media.
On this Day a Son is Given to Us . . . and as a Result, We Also Belong to Him!
The Feast of the Queenship of Mary
On this Day a Son is Given to Us . . . and as a Result, We Also Belong to Him!
Strange title for a day in which we celebrate the Queenship!
At first glance, it also seems like an odd Gospel to have on the Feast of the Queenship of Our Lady. The Gospel is a dialogue between Jesus and His Father just before Our Lord’s Passion. Great as it is, how does that relate to the feast day we celebrate? On this day, when the Montfort Community honors Our Lady, under the title Queen of All Hearts, this Gospel is particularly appropriate.
The Homily references the statue and image of Our Lady, Queen of All Hearts (see full image on the website). This title appears in Latin on the statue. At the foot of the throne is a book, authored by St. Louis de Montfort. The book is the treatise concerning True Devotion to the Holy Virgin Mary. The book is indeed the True Devotion to Mary. Fr. de Montfort wrote that Mary is the key to experiencing an authentic Christian life.
A Son Is Given Enthroned upon Our Lady is the King. He is sitting upon His throne. His throne is the Queen. A loyal subject honors Our Lady on her throne. Yet, she herself is the throne of the King . . . Jesus Christ. Hear more about the throne within the Homily.
Knelling before the throne is a loyal subject (Montfort). This great Apostle of the Cross and Apostle of the Rosary is kneeling before the throne.
In the first reading (not included within this audio), we hear a reading read on Christmas Eve. A Son is given to us! What Son? Jesus Christ! Whose Son? God the Father. And the Son of Our Lady. Because the Son is given to US, notice the sense of belonging. Why? Because the Son is also ours! Hear more within the Homily!
The One who is given to us is the One who will also save us! As a result, we likewise our His . . . we belong to Him! Wow! What a connection! On this day of Queenship…meditate on this day that we belong to Our Lord. He is given to us . . . and we are given to Him!
Hear more on this day we celebrate Our Lady and her Queenship!
Hear more about the image of the Queenship. Understand this Queen of All Hearts image. For all members of the Association, understand the image of Mary, Queen of All Hearts.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
We Can All be Blessed and Touched by Our Lord and be Filled with Grace
In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear from Our Lord through the prophet Ezekiel, that often is a source of struggle for the human heart. The Lord says none of you are merely a victim of circumstances (either good circumstances, or bad).
We all realize there are those that are born into this world with certain advantages, and some are born with certain disadvantages. The emphasis the Lord makes through His prophet, the evil done in your household before you . . . does NOT determine your destiny. Your destiny is also not determined by the good that was done in your household before you were born!
Through the advantages and / or disadvantages you receive, there is a capacity for goodness! There is no set of circumstances so terrible that there is no possibility to reach for goodness.
There is No Set of Circumstances so Terrible that There is No Possibility to Reach For Goodness
This is bold statement . . . for the people in the ancient world . . . as it is today! Circumstances, says the Lord, are not determined by the wickedness of parents. People used to think that way. But the Lord says . . . No!
Everyone has advantages and disadvantages. But in the end, the choices that we make . . . are our choices. The Lord says, we all have a gift. We all can seek good or choose not to seek good. Listen to more within the Homily.
The Lord is not interested in hearing people say . . . if I only had the advantages that others have been given . . . I would be better. No that is not what the Lord is interested in hearing. The Lord tells we all can be better with the advantages we have to bear. This is important to understand. Hear more in the Homily.
The Lord tells us there is a freedom and greatness about every heart. There is a freedom and greatness about every person. The choices we make while we live . . . reach towards eternity. Hear more in the Homily.
In today’s Gospel, families bring their children to be with and see the Lord, so that He can bless them. Within our circumstances we can all belong to Our Lord. We can all be blessed and touched by Our Lord and be filled with grace. Listen to this Gospel again, in light of this Homily.
Hear more within this Meditation Media.
The First Shall Be Last and the Last Will Be First
The prophet Ezekiel is not always very popular.
In the first reading (not included within this audio), the prophet’s words might be considered harsh … even considered by some as kicking someone when they are down.
The prophet speaks to the people of Israel. These people have been deported as the result of war. Instead of a word of kindness, the prophet rebukes the Jewish people. Not to all people, but a rebuke to the shepherds. A rebuke of the priests. A rebuke of the rulers and nobles.
The Lord says, through the prophet, there is no getting back up, until you realize why you fell in the first place. Hear more in the Homily and understand its implications for our own spiritual journey.
The Lord says, through the prophet Ezekiel, if I took you back to Israel today, what would change? You are not looking to heal your heart. You are looking to go back to the way things were. The Lord is talking to the shepherds and people in key positions. The Lord says he will raise up new shepherds, who’ll hear the Lord’s voice. Hear more in the Homily.
We see the fulfillment of this prophesy in the Gospel. Jesus is the Good Shepherd. He calls His Apostles.
The First …
In today’s Gospel we hear Jesus telling us a parable. The story of workers standing in the marketplace. The field owner goes to the marketplace several times throughout the day, to hire workers for his field. The First will be Last and the Last will be First.
The Lord comes, as He tells us the parable, and some are ready at the first hour. The workers are looking to work productively. They are prepared and ready. There is a double meaning in the parable. This first group, from early in their lives have learned to pray and learned to seek the Lord. When the Lord comes, He gives these people something to do. He employs them. He shepherds them to His field, gives work for which they will be rewarded.
The landowner, the Lord, has a large field, so He goes to the marketplace and employs others throughout the day. This is similar to how many of us obtain faith at different stages of our lives. Hear more in this Homily.
Interesting. Are we surprised that we see the Lord has such a large field? Or are we surprised by the number of people walking aimlessly until the Lord comes and puts them to work? Is this message for us, or for people across the years of time?
The landowner, the Lord, is generous. Not only in the rewards he gives people throughout the day, but to provide the dignity of employing the people.
Hear how this parable impacts our Spiritual Journey! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Imagining the Wonderment and Joy in Heaven on the Day of the Assumption of Our Lady!
Mary set out in haste to the hillside . . . to go higher.
Today’s amazing Gospel reading is remarkable. We hear Mary went to visit her cousin Elizabeth. Jesus is clothed, hidden within Mary as she sets forth on her journey. Jesus is hidden … but present. As Mary arrives at her cousin’s home, so too does Jesus.
Today, we celebrate another going up of Our Lady. Our Lady is always moving upward with a certain haste. Her Spirit . . . Her Heart is always elevated. She is always seeking after the things of Heaven. She who has the Lord enclosed within her, allows Him to lift her spirit ever higher.
The Queen of Heaven Arrives in Heaven
On this day we celebrate Our Lady’s Assumption. On this day she is born as she rises to heaven by the wings of angels and her Son. She who bore the Lord, is in turn, born by Him into Heaven. Hear more about this glorious feast day within the Homily.
We hear in scripture, how Elizabeth is overjoyed at the presence of Our Lady. The unborn St. John jumps for joy as well. Now imagine the angels’ joy and all of heaven when Our Lady arrives. The Queen of Heaven arrives in heaven . . . the angels must have jumped for joy on this day. Our Lady is not a visitor to heaven . . . she now resides in heaven. The sounds of Our Lady’s greeting . . . upon hearing this, imagine the joy in the hearts of heaven. Hear more within the Homily.
Imagine the Wonderment in Heaven
We hear about the wonderment of Abraham, and of David. Imagine the wonder of James the Apostle, who knew her on earth. Imagine Adam and Eve as they look in wonderment, because she has arrived. They look in wonderment and see what God’s plan is for all. If Elizabeth reacted in joy, how much more so will heaven jump for joy at the arrival of Our Lady!
Hear more and imagine. Hear more and share in the wonderment. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Love of a Husband for His Wife, and the Love of Wife for Her Husband Shows the World the Love of God for His People
The readings today place the issue of marriage before us, but not in a legalistic way.
We are tempted to see marriage in legal terms from the scripture, but the readings present a broader picture of marriage.
In the first reading (not included within this audio), marriage is talked about in terms of Jesus’ relationship with Jerusalem. In a blunt way, the Lord speaks through the prophet to the city of Jerusalem. The Lord says remember who you are . . . and who you were. The Lord also says, Divorce is not my way! Hear the context of the first reading. Listen to what the Lord says in this Homily.
Why Begin Discussion By Talking About Walking Away
In the Gospel we hear that the Pharisees come to Jesus and ask Him, is divorce good? . . . is it permissible? Our Lord, who left His Glory in heaven, to cloth Himself in flesh, is approached by His people and asked this question.
The Lord has experienced over centuries, human-kind’s unfaithfulness to Him, and He has not divorced us! Yet, His people ask this question.
The Lord asks why do we begin . . . by walking away? Let’s look at what marriage is, says Jesus. The Lord has a place for marriage life in His plan. A plan that is not just how the world gets populated. The plan emphasizes marriage . . . because:
The love of husband for wife and wife for husband shows the world the love of God for his people and the people for God.
It shows the world of this love in a way that nothing else can. Wow! The love of marriage is like the love between God for His people and His people for God. That is an amazingly special love with God. God gives a special love for God a visible means on Earth. It is the love within a marriage.
The Lord Discusses Marriage as Part of His Plan The Pharisees are asking what is permissible. Jesus speaks about something greater than the question.
The love of a husband for his wife, and the love of wife for her husband shows the world the love of God for his people.
Listen to the Greatness of Marriage. Listen to How the Lord loves us and what it means to our spiritual journey. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
The Father is Pleased to Bestow the Kingdom of God on You!
Much will be required of the person entrusted with much.
And still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.
Often, scripture tells us stories that are off putting or upsetting. Often, these stories come from Jesus Himself. It is good to remind the human heart of this . . . because humans like religion that is safe. We like religion that is consoling . . . and certainly like religion that is uplifting. We also like religion when it does not ask too much from us. But, . . . that is not real religion. Passages like today’s Gospel remind us of this fact.
The Lord has given us a great thing . . . Salvation. Though our hearts might be willing to settle for something less than great . . . He is not!
In today’s Gospel, we hear from sacred scripture statements about the looking forward character of faith. Wow! What does that mean?
What is Faith?
Faith is often reduced by humans as belief in certain statements . . . or certain propositions.
While partially true, that is not faith by its fullest definition. Faith has other intrinsic powerful aspects of faith. The first aspect happens when we say the Creed. We say, I believe IN God. We do not say we believe God . . . or that I believe in things about God. No, that is not we say in this prayer. We believe IN God. That is different. Hear the significance of these two-letter word we pray within the Homily.
This belief launches us into the looking forward characteristic of Faith. The Homily explains what looking forward means. It gives the example of Abraham. He was given a promise that he never fully possesses. He was given the promise because he believed in the One who made the promise. Christian life is forward looking. Hear more about the looking forward characteristic of Faith.
Jesus tells us . . . do not be afraid. The Father is pleased to bestow the Kingdom of God on you! Look forward as a Christian, understanding what God wants for us!
When the Lord speaks this way, He tells us something. This is the anecdote to depression. Remember what God wants for you! Remember what we all are moving towards! Believe IN Him. Believe the words you say in the Creed . . . I believe IN God. Jesus also tells us to prepare a treasure for ourselves! Wow!
Hear more within this Homily about what God has for you! Hear more about preparing your own treasure! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Cast Your Net Toward Jesus
The Lord says, within the Gospel, the Angels will separate the good from the bad . . .
Do you understand? In the Gospel, as it is with today’s passage, it is remarkable when the Lord asks a question. Often it is both the question and the answer that are remarkable. Often the is deeper than what appears on first glance.
The Kingdom of Heaven is like a net cast out into the sea, says the Lord. The point of casting the net is to catch something. The net catches all. It catches the good. It catches the life sustaining. And catches the good for nothing. After brining in the bounty of the sea, one needs to separate this bounty. It is a process of holding onto what is good and casting aside what is not good.
The Lord then gives this story a sense of ultimacy. The world is like the sea, says the Lord. Abundant with life . . . with human life. The Lord tells us that His Angels will cast the net across the world. Hear more within the Homily.
The Lord tells us this . . . His disciples, not to threaten us. But He is saying what we do with our time and our choices has a great value. Hear more within the Homily.
The Homily further explains the first reading (not included within this media) about the potter and how he shapes the clay into a finished product. There are some clay pieces that are fashioned directly into a good and final product. Others, the potter has to reshape. Hear more within the Homily.
Hear more about Casting Your Net Toward Jesus. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Lord Sent His Disciples into the Rough Sea. Why?
To understand more fully the Gospel today, . . .
. . . one needs to pause and contemplate what the Lord says through the prophet Jeremiah in the first reading (not included within this media). The Lord begins with the radical woundedness that resides within His people. The woundedness is further described within the Homily.
The Lord tells us that He did this to you! Woe! That is a troubling statement. I did this to you (plant the seeds of woundedness within you) because of your many sins, . . . because of how you were living. The Lord tells us we feel abandon . . . by design. The Lord tells us we have given our hearts to so many others. Given our hearts to those that can’t save, heal or protect you. Listen more within the Homily.
I let you experience the false consolation. I let you experience the false hope. The Lord lets you experience how alone you truly are in this world.
Why did the Lord do this for us? Because we give our hearts to others in this world. He must let us experience the falsehood of us giving ourselves to something that cannot save us. Why? So that our heart may turn to the Lord! The Homily explains the amazing statement that the Lord has done this to us. Hear more within the Homily.
When We Approach God, It Is Because of His Love and Desire For Us
The Homily also discusses our approaching God. Each one of us, when we approach God, it is not because we love God. It is God’s love for us, and His desire for us to approach Him . . . at that time. Wow! Listen to Homily for a deeper explanation of this statement.
Now turning to the Gospel reading, which tells us the story of Jesus walking to His disciples on the sea. Jesus was not initially with His disciples. He was at prayer. When He finishes His prayer, He moves toward His disciples. The sea is agitated. There is high winds and waves are big and powerful. Note: it was the Lord who sent His disciples into the sea. They are exactly where they need to be. The Lord sent His disciples into the rough sea. Why? So that they would know the Lord. They know Him in a way that words alone cannot convey. Hear more within the Homily.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
Drawn to Jesus, the Woman Asks Jesus for Help
In the first reading (not included in this media), the Lord says . . .
. . . I will be the Lord over all the tribes of Israel. At the time the Lord said this, for over a century, most of the tribes of Israel no longer exists. Only the small kingdom of Judea still exists. For the other tribes, they no longer exist. Their people deported. Foreigners took their place living in these lands. They are the famous lost tribes of Israel. So, imagine the force behind the Lord’s statement!
The tribes did not exist for over a century due to their sins and attitudes of the people toward God. Then the Lord tells the prophet Jeremiah, He will be the Lord of the people. Why? Because of the Lord’s love for us! The Lord has something greater in mind than the resettling of Israel. Something greater than just restoring Israel. Hear more within the Homily and this statement by the Lord.
The Woman Approaches Jesus
I will be the Lord over all the tribes of Israel. I will be the Lord over all people. In the Gospel, a Gentile woman approaches Jesus. This Syrophoenician Woman approaches Jesus and asks for His help. She realizes she cannot help her daughter physically. She needs help.
This woman is an example for many of us today. Many people today cry out . . . wounded. Many believe they are outside “the people” of God. The woman is drawn to Jesus. She gets up and moves, seeking Jesus. She asks . . . help me, for my daughter is tormented. Help me, by helping my daughter. What an interesting prayer!
She cries out not only for her own private needs. She cries out in her inability to comfort her child. Her inability to comfort her little girl. Help me because I cannot overcome this alone.
This prayer is not just of a woman. It is also a cry for help by the world. It is a statement of things that at times, overwhelm us.
Curiously, Jesus says nothing in response. This heart wrenching cry is lifted to Jesus, and He says nothing. Silence! The Lord’s ways are not our ways!
Hear more in this Homily. Understand how this Gospel story helps us in our Spiritual Journey. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
Those that do the will of God are My Brothers and My Sisters . . .
On the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, today’s scripture has a tone of a note of belonging.
The Homily discusses the first reading (not included within this audio). The reading first calls upon all to rejoice. But rejoice for a reason. The reason? That God will come and dwell with us! This is what the prophet tells us! Rejoice! It’s not just a proclamation of what is to come. Rejoice in how wonderous this is! That God will come and abide with us. Listen more within the Homily.
Hear also how Our Lady rejoices with Our Lord coming to abide with us. She rejoices not just because the Lord is within her. She rejoices because the Lord noticed her. The Homily explores this in some detail.
In the Gospel, Jesus is in the temple, and someone tells Him His Mother and Brothers are outside wishing to speak with Him. Pointing to His disciples, He asks: Who are my Mother and Brothers? Those that do the will of God are My Brothers and My Sisters and My Mother.
Jesus is not saying anything bad against His Mother. What He is asking is: What makes her so united with me? What does it mean to belong to Me? Hear what makes Our Lady great . . . . in the eyes of God! It is a lesson for all of us!
Listen to the Homily on this Feast Day. Listen to this Meditation Media.
I Will Not Turn My Back On You Says The Lord!
Love by its essence, longs to be received.
In both the first reading (not included within the audio) and the Gospel are messages of love. What parent hasn’t longed to have their love received by someone? Often, we are hurt by someone who we love. We are hurt not because love is extended . . . but because the love extended was not received.
Often, we see the very people we love turn their back on us . . . and our love. At times, this might result in anger. This is what has happened in the first reading. The Homily explains what happens in the biblical story . . . what happens when people turn their back to the Lord. Hear more within the audio.
What we find is the Lord will not turn His back on us! All through scripture, there are numerous opportunities for the Lord to be done with us! Yet, He does not turn His back on us! He always extends His love to us!
Hear more in this Meditation Media.
Isiah’s Experience With the Angels vs. Our Blessed Mother’s Experience
In the first reading, the call of the prophet Isiah and the Annunciation story in the Gospel, the common theme is to wake-up. The Word must be heard by someone who is awake and alert.
Isiah had a vision as the angels shouted Holy, Holy, Holy. Note how the Mass echoes those words. Today’s Homily initially focuses on the Mass. The prayers are not primarily directed toward Heaven. There are certain exclamations that we say to one-another at Mass. Why? To remind ourselves of the Greatness, the Goodness and the Glory of God. Listen more within the Homily.
For Isiah, the experience of Holiness of God is not only overwhelming, but also terrifying! Wow! Why? To encounter the Holiness of God, is to realize the darkness of his / Isiah’s own heart. As a recognized sinner, Isiah is unable to endure the presence of Goodness that is so Great! Isiah thought he was going to die! He is just a man of unclean lips born of a people of unclean lips. He recognizes that without support from Heaven, he cannot endure so great a presence. Understand what happens next by listening to the Homily. Hear about the flame of life.
Why did Isiah say he has unclean lips, and not an unclean heart? Hear how Isiah actions impacts the world! Understand how important this scripture story is to us! Its importance in understanding what cleansing means and how it impacts us when we are in the presence of the Lord!
Hear the difference between Isiah’s experience with the angels and Mary’s experience at the time of the Annunciation.
Hear more in this Meditation Media.
The Lord Asks Us to Pay Attention to Him!
In the first reading (not included within this audio set), we hear a number of statements that anticipates (by nearly 800 years) what happens in the events of Good Friday!
The prophet proclaims the injustice and shallow worship of the northern kingdom in Israel. He looks to the events of Good Friday. He also talks of things to come down to our present day!
He talks about Christians in terms of what happens on Sunday. The prophet says its curious on Feast days, many Christians count down the time until it’s over. Today, many Christians can’t wait until Mass is over. Christians in the time of the prophet and even today believe they have more important things to do and are anxious to begin those activities even before Mass ends. The prophet says it doesn’t manner how you worship, if your heart is not right. Hear more in this Homily and its impact on us today.
Today is the First Friday of the month. It is also the day of First Friday Devotion. What does the Lord ask of us? The Lord asks for extra time to be set aside to be with Him! The Lord Asks Us to Pay Attention to Him!
What does that really mean? Listen to this Meditation Media.
Jesus Tells Us: Go and Christ’s Presence will Soon Follow
Jesus Tells Us: Go . . .
In today’s Gospel, Jesus sends 72 disciples out into the world with specific instructions.
While it might appear at first to be just a Gospel story about the early Church, it is also a command for us! Jesus, upon His disciples return, tells them not to rejoice because spirits respond to their prayers and commands, but that your name is written in Heaven!
The Homily begins by announcing to the Mass attendees that there are two priests who will be visiting and preaching at the Shrine. Hear more about these two priests!
The Homily calls two young people from the pews and expands upon today’s Gospel. Jesus sends out His disciples telling them to not bring supplies, or money on their trip. Jesus asks His disciples to prepare the way of the Lord, to visit the towns the Lord will visit. He tells the disciples just to rely on Him. He, through other people, will provide what His disciples will need . . . shelter, food, etc. Jesus tells a lesson for us all. Listen more in this Homily.
. . . and Christ’s Presence will Soon Follow
When Jesus sends out His disciples . . . when He sends us out into the world . . . the presence of Christ always follows in some way afterwards. Wow, think about that. He is saying, don’t worry about the ability to speak in a certain way. Just go and live the Gospel. Christ’s presence will soon follow. That statement is further explained in the Homily.
Go and Christ’s presence will soon follow. Go, and you will find unexpected support as you do so! Don’t worry about having everything in place . . . everything you really need will be given to you!
The Lesson Continues
Don’t just rejoice in what you do. Rejoice that your names are written in the book of Heaven. Listen and Meditate on this Media.
The Prophet Amos Tells Us: Stop Listening to Lesser Voices!
The Prophet Amos Tells Us: . . .
In the first reading, the prophet Amos talks to those that oppose Israel, the enemy of Israel. Amos lived around 760 BC. He tells us about what will happen to the enemies . . . the consequences of what has been done wrong. Amos, after telling all what will happen, turns to those who are in the great Temple. Those that have come to pray. He addresses the king and to all of the people who have listen to what Amos said to the enemies of Israel.
Amos turns to the people of Israel and proclaims the word of God. The people wanted wickedness against their enemies. Now they hear what else Amos has to say. The Lord sees the wickedness also in the hearts of the people of Israel.
The reading we have today is directed against Israel itself. There is a note the Lord has reach the limits of His patience. The Lord has issued warnings previously that have provoked an empty response. The statements we now hear are remarkable. The Lord says it does not manner how often you come to the Temple. It doesn’t manner how often you offer sacrifices. It doesn’t manner that you make a show of observing the Feast Days . . . if you are going to leave all of that empty.
. . . Stop Listening to Lesser Voices!
In today’s world, we experience the same thing. A person does what he wills during the week and pats himself on the back because he goes to Church on Sunday!
If all of these things do not penetrate your heart, then praying or Mass attendance has very little value. Hear more in the Homily.
Why is Amos telling his message to the people of Israel? He speaks this way . . . to give Israel, one last chance. He speaks this way, in harsh terms to the people of Israel, in the hope it penetrates their hearts. Hear more within the Homily.
Hear Amos’ message to us. He tells us: The Lord, the Creator of the Universe, is Speaking to You! Stop Listening to Lesser Voices!
The Homily concludes with some thoughts about the day’s Gospel. Hear more about the boat story of Jesus and His disciples.
Hear more about the significance this reading has on our own Spiritual Journey. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Note: The Gospel is not included within this audio set. The First Reading is included within this audio set.
The Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: What Is It and Why Is It Important for our Spiritual Journey?
On this day the Church celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Our Lady.
So, with this feast day’s name, one could rightfully ask, what does it mean to celebrate a heart? Further, what does it mean to have a Devotion to the Immaculate Heart? For many, when we hear the word heart, we fall into the trap of thinking about a Hallmark moment. Many equate the heart as sentimental . . . about feelings; and specifically, good feelings. That is not at all of what Devotion to the Immaculate Heart is . . . because it is not as trivial as sentimental feelings.
The key to understanding this Devotion first requires an understanding as to what the word means. Devotion is not about feelings. Devotion means . . . being committed to another. Not a feeling . . . but a belonging. Hear more within the Homily.
Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary begins with appreciating the dignity of Our Lady. Devotion to the Immaculate Heart is relatively recent . . . it’s just less than 400 hundred years old. St. John Eudes, in France, took this Devotion and made it available to the broader community. The Devotion was known by religious and other saints, but he made it available to the broader community in the 1600s.
Listen to a 350+ year old prayer from St. John Eudes on the Immaculate Heart of Mary. We encourage you to listen to this prayer and Meditate on it.
Hear more about the Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary in this Homily. Listen to this Meditation Media.
We are in Ordinary Times We are in . . .
With the events of the last few weeks on the news, one might not think these are ordinary times.
However, to the Church, these days are called Ordinary Times. Lent, the Passion, Easter, Pentecost and several feast days have recently concluded. By doing so, we now enter Ordinary Times.
Ordinary does not mean it is not special. Far from it. Ordinary has a very specific meaning in the Catholic context. It means put into good order. Hear more why this is significant as it relates to the readings and the Gospel over the next several weeks.
The Gospel reading for today has the Lord moving toward Jerusalem. He commits to go to the place where He ultimately will lay down His life. His ministry now moves toward The Cross. Hear more in the Homily.
Jesus sends messengers to Samaritan. As soon as they find out where He is traveling to, the town’s people want no part of Him. On the one hand the Gospel tells us about the details of a people (the Samaritans) and culture that does not get along with another set of people (the Jewish people). There are ongoing hostilities between the two sets of people.
. . . Ordinary Times Why was this told to us in the scripture? Indeed, it is more than just a historical fact. It is a detail, that continues to talk to us today! All too many of us have heard about Jesus; have heard the message of Jesus; and know about Jesus. But there are moments in all our lives where the Gospel speaks to us, and we do not like where it’s going. We don’t reject the Gospel, but we simply do not receive it. Hear how the Gospel applies to the heart of man, even today!
Listen to how this Gospel impacts our Spiritual Journey. Listen to this Meditation Media.
I Will Satisfy Your Hunger . . . How the Miracle of the Loaves Relates to Us Today
Have you ever felt that you absolutely have no energy left?
You may have felt that you have reach your limits. You possibly even feel overwhelmed. Linger with that image as the Church celebrates a beautiful mystery today . . . the Body and Blood of Our Lord.
The Gospel today is one of the accounts of Our Lord feeding the multiples of people who came to hear Him. It begins simply. Jesus has been teaching and has been healing the people. One might think that would be enough.
But the people have another need as well. There are many people, most of whom are tired and hungry. There is no shelter. One might think that Jesus had done all that He could do. But that is not what we hear within the scripture.
. . . How the Miracle of the Loaves Relates to Us Today
The disciples come to the Lord asking that He send the people away, so the disciples could tend for themselves. The Lord’s response, however, is instructive. He tells the disciples not to send them away, but to feed them.
The Lord knows that there are no local places that could care for so many. The Lord knows that He cannot send them away into a world that cannot care for so many people.
Why don’t you (the disciples) feed them? The disciples look at the large crowd. The disciples know they could not feed the people. Then there is Jesus. He says, give me the five loaves and two fish. It visually makes no sense! Yet, Jesus says let’s feed them all.
Hear why this miracle is so amazing. Nowhere does it say there are five thousand loafs after the blessing. He gives them food that does not end as the disciples pass out the food. Listen to Homily explain what is actually going on within this mystery . . . both visibly and invisibly.
Hear how this story relates to what Jesus does within the Mass. Jesus tells us all, I am not willing to send you away hungry.
Hear more within this Meditation Media.
Calling Upon the Lord
This audio starts with Kings 2, and then moves into the Homily. The Homily’s focus is largely on this reading, so the Gospel for this day is not included within this audio set.
The first reading is based in what we now know as Northern Iraq. The empire had conquered the surrounding states. Often, the local culture was near extermination as the result of the battles.
We hear in the homily the Assyrian army entered into Northern Israel, conquered it, and deported its people. Other people then settled into the lands of Northern Israel. The lost tribes of Israel expression comes from these actions. These lost tribes basically disappear from history.
The army, which no kingdom or land has been able to resist, has now set its eye on the smaller kingdom of Israel; the kingdom of Judea. A kingdom that consists of just one of the original twelve tribes of Israel.
The army sets its sights on this kingdom so as to take over all of its neighboring states. The army arrives outside the gates of Jerusalem. There is no military power in Judea that is capable of resisting the would-be conquering army at its gates.
Judea, in the eyes of the world at the time, was a small . . . rather unimportant kingdom. Its territories weren’t great. It was weak in terms of worldly power. It was not wealthy or mighty.
Making the Lord . . . The would be conquering (Assyrian) army, confident in its strength and invincibility, sends a letter to the Judea king (King Hezekiah) . . . stating the obvious. Israel does not have the military power to defend itself. They army mocks Judea. They invite Judea to call upon its God, since no other nation was able to defend itself. No other nation was able to resist this conquering army, including Northern Israel which worships your God.
While all of this is interesting, why does the Church include this into its readings? Think of those times in your life when you find it difficult to overcome a reality or situation. You may be surrounded by everything that is going wrong. Examples are given in the homily. That is the reality this scripture unveils. We may have experienced a sense of doubt when our prayers are not immediately answered. Note how the letter to the king of Judea has these similar elements.
. . . the Ruler of Our Heart This could have very well been a frightening moment for Judea. The king calls out to God. He does not surrender to fear. He does not negotiate terms for peace. Rather, he cries out to God in prayer on his knees. The king of Judea will not let this opposing army be the ruler over his (Judea’s king) heart.
The prophet arrives in Judea and announces the prayer has been heard. Hear more in this homily about calling upon the Lord.
We hear about many miracles in the bible. This story is not given as much attention. It is a remarkable story in that the Lord intervenes for His people . . . and saves them. The Lord answers their prayer. Why? Our Lord made a promise to David. Seven Hundred and fifty years or so later, a special event will occur. The Lord saves His people because a greater moment will occur.
Hear more within this Meditation Media and what it means for our own Spiritual Journey.
Understanding and Celebrating the Role, Connection and Greatness of St. John the Baptist
In scripture, we are told of several births (the Homily lists many). But the Church only celebrates three people. Our Lord, the Virgin Mary, . . . and St. John the Baptist.
We do not celebrate the birthday of the disciple Jesus loved. The Church does not celebrate St. Joseph’s birthday. The Church also does not celebrate St. Peter’s or St. Paul’s, or any other saint’s birthday. The Church celebrates saints’ and others’ birth into glory, but not their birthday on earth.
This fact should tell us something about St. John the Baptist. Uniquely, for many years within the Church, we celebrated only two people . . . Jesus and St. John the Baptist. Celebrating Our Lady actually came later within the Catholic tradition.
Imagine that! For hundreds of years, there was only two birthday celebrations within the Christian traditions. The Church, by celebrating St. John the Baptist’s birthday, it emphasizes the greatness and uniqueness of the connection to Jesus and the role God Almighty ha given to him.
What role? The role in moving forward with the salvation of the world.
Hear about the greatness of this Baptist. Listen to a very unique connection to Jesus. Understand how Heaven views St. John the Baptist! Understand why the Church celebrates him. Listen to this Meditation Media
Jesus’ Mind and Heart Works Different Than Ours . . . Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
How different the mind and heart of Jesus is compared to our own!
Today’s Gospel is about the lost sheep. A single lost sheep. There are ninety-nine other sheep that Jesus leaves. Why? We certainly, most of us, would rather lose one sheep than jeopardize the flock of 99. Yet, Jesus says who among us would not go after the lost sheep. Wait. What is Jesus telling us!
Today is the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Understand what we are really celebrating on this day. It is a day of celebrating the Lord’s love for us, as well as a day in which we pray for atonement. Love and atonement. Hear what we are celebrating on this day of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Also on this day, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Pro-Life. That is very important. But there is also a deep woundedness in life today. What are we doing about that? Hear more about this in the Homily.
Listen to what it is we are celebrating in this Meditation Media.
Be Perfect, Just as Your Heavenly Father is Perfect!
Jesus says, be perfect. It is demanding and challenging. Jesus is speaking on two levels. The first is aspirational. Aspire to be perfect!
The second level: do more than aspire. Actually, try and do it. The Homily explains further on both levels what Jesus is demanding. Jesus is not saying be absolutely flawless tomorrow. Hear exactly what Jesus is demanding and the implications for us and our spiritual journey.
Be better than the world around you! Wow. What a statement! Think about it. Many Christians are no better than the world around us, yet Jesus tells us something else. Jesus then goes on and tells us how we can be different than the world. Jesus tells us what can make you perfect.
Listen to this Meditation Media and hear what it takes to Be Perfect!
Seeing My Spirit . . . Elijah Tells Us Something for Our Own Spirituality
In today’s first reading (not included in this audio), we hear about Elisha and Elijah.
Elijah is taken to heaven in a fiery chariot. Before that, the two are walking and are followed by 50 guild prophets. The Homily goes on to talk about the types of prophets. There are more than one kind of prophet.
The Homily goes on and talks about the guild prophets that were following Elijah and Elisha. Guild prophets were largely prophets that supported themselves . . . a sort of profession . . . by prophesying. This profession exists today.
There were many prophets in the past, but few are true. Elijah and Elisha are true prophets, raised up by the Holy Spirit. In the reading Elijah knows that his time of ministry is coming to an end.
A Double Portion of Your Spirit
Elijah and Elisha are walking with all the followers. They come to a river. Elijah takes his mantel and slaps the river with it. Just like in the past, the Jordan River changed its movement. The river splits so that Elijah and his disciple can walk on dry land . . . through what was previously the river. The guild prophets cannot follow. The guild prophets do not get to hear or see what comes next.
On the other side of the river, the two prophets continue walking and speaking to each other. Elijah ultimately says . . . what do you want me to do for you? Elijah says this as he knows his time is coming to an end. What gift can I give you, asks Elijah. Elisha asks for a double share of Elijah’s spirit. Hear more what that means.
Elijah says that is not an easy gift. He responds, if you see me taken up to heaven, your request is granted. The Homily explains this marvelous answer further.
Listen to the significance of this story and what it really means for our own spirituality. Listen to what Elijah is Telling Us for Our Own Spirituality.
Hear more in this Meditation Media.
Jesus Prays . . . May They Be One
In the first reading (not included within this audio), the Jewish leaders accuse St. Paul and bring legal proceedings.
The Romans concerned with what is going on, get involved also. The Romans are trying to understand what is causing such anger that it threatens the peace over the city.
The Homily tries to explain what is going on, by relating several examples in today’s world. Paul says he is a Jew, but he is being attacked because he believes in . . . and preaches about . . . the Resurrection of Jesus. Some Jewish tribes did not believe in the concept of resurrection.
Part of the Jewish leaders do not believe in the resurrection. The Jewish leaders want to position Paul against the other Jewish leaders.
The problem is both groups of Jewish are so upset, that the Romans are worried that the anger will get out of hand. No one was really listening to Paul speak the Gospel. The people were just concerned about their side and positioning. Not unlike what we see today in the world.
May They Be One Jesus says a prayer on the night before He dies. He prays . . . may they be one. May they be one in what I have given them. It is a oneness not in terms of political position, but a oneness in the love that Jesus has given to us.
There is a lesson to be learned here. Hear more about what happens when we just focus on our positioning. Find out more about Paul. Hear more about being one. Listen and Meditate on this Media.
Understand What Jesus Expects from All of Us!
Today’s Gospel presents Jesus as not nice (as we use the word today). Jesus demands something from us! He expects something. The Lord tells His people that He has expectations from His people. Unless your righteousness of the Scribes, you will not enter the kingdom of Heaven.
We all need to pause and remember, Heaven is not guaranteed, nor is it our right. We must remember, that it is a gift.
The Lord insists that we live up to the level of the gift. Heaven is not to be taken lightly. Hear more in the Homily. Understand what Jesus really wants from us . . . what He expects from His followers!
Listen to this Meditation Homily.
The Holy Spirit Has Given Each of Us a Special Gift . . . for the Use of Others!
An invisible Christianity . . . is no Christianity, the Lord tells us.
Jesus tells His disciples that you have been given something. If you give yourself to something else . . . you can lose the goodness that has been given you.
Jesus then talks about the Light within the Gospel. Elsewhere, He says He is the Light of the world. In this Gospel He tells his disciples they are the light of the world. Light must be visible and recognizable . . . or, it is no good.
You Are The Light in the World
Jesus is talking about our lives. He says He has not kindled new light and new life in you . . . I have not kindled faith in you . . . so that you will be covered up! Light is lit . . . it shines bright . . . so that others may see!
Jesus says stop with the excuses that one does not like to stand out. Stop with the excuses that one likes to be in the background. He does not say show off . . . or impose yourself. He says, do not hide. Do not conceal what you have been given. Let the light you have been given shine. Hear more within the audio.
The Holy Spirit Has Given Each of Us a Gift
St. Paul states in his writings that the Holy Spirit has given each of us a gift that is not for you . . . but for others. Every member of the Church . . . every member of the body, has been gifted something for others . . . the body of the Church! Wow!
When we get frustrated with the Church . . . and the world, St. Paul and Jesus both say, we have been given something .. . for others. Consider that for a moment. Hear more, and its importance, within the audio.
We hear more about this with the prophet Elisha. Jesus prepares a place for him, in another land, with a widow and her son. He does this at a great time of drought . . . when Israel is unfaithful. When he meets the widow, she is at a point of helplessness. When he meets her, he asks for something to eat. The widow first says she has nothing left to give. She has enough for a small piece of bread.
In the midst of her lack of food, the prophet asks for food and he says she will not lack. Amazingly, she prepares something and gives it to him. She also discovers that she still has flour and oil. The prophet then stays with the widow and her son. She receives him into her home for a year. The Lord provides for them for a year.
She opens the door to the messenger and gives a little of whatever she had to the prophet. She never runs out of what she needs to feed her household. Understand the meaning of this scripture and its implications for us!
Listen to this Meditation Media.
Pentecost Sunday: The Birth of the Church
The Gospel and readings show a single location on two different Sundays.
In the Gospel, it is the evening of the first day of the week . . . on Easter Sunday. The Lord arrives at a room. The place of the Great Super . . . the Last Super on the night before He died. In the room is His disciples . . . the Church. They are locked inside to keep the dangers of the world outside.
It is into this room, that the Lord arrives on Easter Sunday. There is great joy! His risen presence breaks the fear of His disciples. The Lord gives His disciples His first gift . . . the Gift of Peace to His Church. It is a Peace that does not take the danger out of this world. But a Peace that settles the heart to live in this world. It is a gift that is so important, that He gives it twice. The first Peace is a Peace that allows the joy of seeing Him. Then a Peace that allows the receiving of a second . . . and even greater gift. It is the Gift of the Holy Spirit. Hear more in the Homily.
The Birth of the Church
Fifty days later, we are back in the same room. The same room of the locked doors. The disciples are they there on a Sunday at prayer. The Church can fit into this one room. In quite confidence, the Church is at prayer. . . not fear. Jesus told them not to leave before the Spirit comes.
The building begins to shake. Nothing else, but the building. It was windy and very sunny. Indoors where the sunlight is greater than a sunny day at the beach. Windy and sunny. Heaven descends in its power within the room. After this happens, the Church spills out of the room. The Church steps out into the world. Today the Church spans the entire world.
The disciples had no material wealth. But they changed the world, because they came out into the world. This is what we celebrate today. Pentecost Sunday: The Birth of the Church. Hear more on what we celebrate on this birth of the Church. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Reflections of Mary, Queen of All Hearts
Saint Augustine tells us Our Lady conceived the Word in her heart first, and then in her womb.
The Church goes on to tell us further, Our Lord resides in Mary’s womb only for a short time (nine months). However, Our Lord never leaves Mary’s Heart.
Hear more about the Reflections of Mary, Queen of All Hearts in this brief (4 Minute) audio captured as part of the ninth and final day of the Queen of All Hearts’ Pentecost Novena.
Listen to this brief Meditation Media
The Fifth Gospel
The day before Pentecost Sunday has some special readings.
The first reading (not included in this audio) has St. Paul in prison. In the Acts of the Apostles, more than any other scripture writing, the scenes involve prison and prison breaks. In fact, this writing deals with imprisonment. Most Christians do not think of their faith in terms of imprisonment.
The Imprisonment and Faith When you think about it further, the Ester Season begins, in a way, with imprisonment. The Lord’s body resides in the prison of the grave, and escapes this prison with his Resurrection. Hear more about the imprisonment of humanity, and its impact on our Spiritual Life.
One lesson from the scripture is, despite St. Paul being locked up, the message of the Gospel is not contained within the prison walls. St. John in the Gospel tells us that there were many more things that Jesus did during His time in the world. There would not be enough room in the world to contain the books if all were written down. The Homily dives into this a little further.
Why Four Gospels? Why Not One? So, why are there four Gospels, vs. just one? Because no single evangelist’s perspective is comprehensive. So we are given these four glorious windows into the one saving mystery of Jesus. Taken as a set of writings, our picture and our understanding may be full. What an amazing statement John makes at the end the Gospel. If everything about Jesus is written, there is not enough space in the world to contain the books.
The Fifth Gospel However, when John says this, he is implying something. In our bible there are four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. But in the life of the Church, THERE ARE FIVE GOSPELS. Listen to this Homily and hear about THE FIFTH GOSPEL.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
Conference #1- The History & Meaning of Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary is Centuries Old When we hear the words Immaculate Heart of Mary in our present age, most will think of Our Lady of Fatima. It is understandable, but historically Devotion to the Immaculate Heart is older than Fatima. To understand this Devotion to the Immaculate Heart, one needs to travel back into the history of the Church. During this retreat there will be references to Fatima, but this conference begins with framing the Devotion to provide an additional context. What Do the Words Devotion to the Immaculate Heart Mean? Spirituality around the heart of Mary is an ancient tradition within the Church. We begin by clarify terminology. When we say Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Our Lady, let’s take a moment to understand what that really means. Each of these words are explored within the audio.
Uniquely, well before Fatima, within this Devotion to Our Lady, was an importance placed on First Saturday devotions. This is an outgrowth of dedicating Saturday to Our Lady. Hear more. Where does all this come from? And, why is there a Devotion to Our Lady’s heart? Interesting questions; the audio goes into detail. Briefly, however, there is a devotion to her heart on three levels (each explained in the audio). • Her Physical Heart • Her Interior Heart • Her Inner-most Heart Devotion to the Heart of Mary is biblical. Forty days after Jesus is born He is taken to the Temple. The scripture is read that states Mary’s heart will be pierced like a sword. The mention of the heart of Our Lady is captured within the imagination within the early Church. The image of a sword thrust into Our Lady’s heart impacted the early faithful. Hear the impact of this statement . . . the reason why Mary’s heart is wounded. Saints Write About the Heart of Mary St. Augustine writes about the Heart of Mary. He writes much, but one of his reflections (covered in audio in more detail) is: When Gabriel visits Our Lady at the Annunciation, she is already listening. She is already waiting for heaven to speak. He continues in his writings: Our Lady conceived The Word in her heart, before she conceived Our Lord within her womb. St. John Eudes continues that thought and statement. On the morning of the Nativity, Jesus left her womb, but He never left her heart. Wow! What an amazing concept! We also hear about the term Sacred Heart of Mary. Hear more about what never leaving the heart means and how it might impact our Spirituality. There is a wonderous sense of unity between the Sacred Heart of Our Lord and Our Lady. But its not just two hearts standing next to each other. Rather, its one heart living and reigning within the other. Again, meditate on that image as the audio goes further into its meaning. As a result of Fatima, there were a number of practices specified to the Immaculate Heart of Our Lady. All of these are good things. But as a result of this Conference, one can understand how these practices builds upon the understanding and teachings of the Church for the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Hear more within the closing minutes of the audio. Fatima Adds a Sharpness to the Devotion that Did Not Exist Previously Within the event of Fatima, there are three aspects to Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. They are all expressed earlier in the history of the Church. The event and message (as it relates to the Devotion) is not something new at Fatima. However, what happens at Fatima, as Our Lady visits the shepherd children, she gathers up all of the good of the Church’s Devotion to her heart, she adds something to it. She gives it a direction or sharpness that it did not have before the event. It’s the same devotion, simply amplified. These will be the themes of the next three conferences. • Adoration • Reparation • Consecration These are the fundamental practices associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Conference #2: The First Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Adoration
This is the second conference of Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. This and the next two conferences will focus on the practices associated with the Devotion. This conference focuses largely on Adoration.
Our Lady’s Heart is the Abode of the Lord First, a revisit to some of the images presented in the first conference. St. Augustine observed . . . Mary conceived the Word in her heart, before she conceived the Lord in her womb. The Church then amplifies this observation as follows. The Lord remained in her womb only a short time. But He never left her heart. This idea of Our Lady’s heart being the abode, the resting place of the Lord is vitally important for a full sense or understanding of Devotion to the Immaculate Heart.
Sacred Heart of Our Lady The word sacred in the terms Sacred Heart of Our Lady comes from the dwelling place of the Lord. The audio then provides some verses from Psalms to help with meditation of this point. Listen to more within the audio.
There are three practices associated with this Devotion. They are:
Adoration Reparation Consecration
This audio’s focus is on the first of the three.
What is Adoration? The term Adoration is often only partially understood by many Christians. Many reduce the term as a loving look at someone else. That idea is not complete. In fact, in a way, it’s wrong.
The Lord tells us: where your treasures are, there is where you find your heart. When we look at Our Lady’s heart, there is bidirectional. Both Adoration and Reparation involve a bidirectional as part of it. Our Lady’s heart is directed first to her Son.
What exactly is Adoration? Certain things require a moment of grace. At Fatima, heaven prepares the children for the event a year earlier (October, 1916) when an angel appears before the children. The Angel of Peace comes to this children. The audio explains why this is remarkable.
The lesson of the scene of the angel meeting the children is one of humbleness and preparation of the heart before prayer. This lesson is also the action one should do in Adoration. The words of prayer rise to heaven from the one who bows before the Lord . . . before the One that is greater. It is the fundamental movement of Adoration. Adoration is not only a loving look. It is first a bending low before the One who is great. Listen to the audio to understand this further.
The prayer is simple: My God, I believe, I adore, I hope, and I love You. The audio describes this prayer and how it relates to Adoration; and briefly, describes how it also relates to Reparation. Listen to this audio to further understand Adoration.
Conference #3: The Second Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Reparation
There is a much earlier connection to the Reparation to the Heart of Mary than Fatima. Indeed, it was written in the early 1600s, over 250 years before Fatima. In fact, there are prayers to the atonement to her heart also written in the 1600s.
Why Does Our Lady Appear at Fatima?
Why does Our Lady appear at Fatima? It was not to give chilling warnings. She doesn’t come to give a dark warning of danger! Mary shows the children the vision of hell. Why? To show the cost of what turning away from Our Lord really entails, so that no one ends up there. Hear how the call for Reparation is connected with the potential for lost souls. Listen to more within the audio.
Our Lady Reveals Her Heart There are two elements that ones sees when Our Lady reveals her heart to the Fatima children. When she shows her heart, it is ringed with thorns. She mentions how her heart is pierced with thorns and there is no one to remove them. When the children hear this, they immediate think that they need to do something about her pierced heart.
Francisco is moved. He is captivated by the glory of God and doesn’t understand how anyone can be indifferent. He wants to make sacrifices . . . to make Reparation for the glory of God, so that the honor of God receives its due. Francisco wants to do this on behalf of the world who will not honor the Lord.
Then there is his little sister Jacinta. In a beautiful gesture, she is worried about the poor sinners in the world. Imagine today a seven year old girl worried about the poor sinners and their potential fate. A fate lost and separated from Our Lord. She wants to be the one to extend her hand to lift them up. Hear more about little Jacinta. These two children understand and articulate the heart of Mary. The willingness to always honor the Lord for His goodness. And they always want to appreciate this goodness and love of the Lord. They recognize if they love God, they will also love the ones whom God loves . . . which includes sinners. Hear more about the event of Fatima and the call for Reparation.
First Saturdays Devotion Our Lady, and Our Lord explain further to Lucia (when she was in her covenant) the issue of repentance on Saturdays. First Saturdays is an old activity. It is not new with Fatima. Why First Saturdays? To honor and appreciate Our Lady; to celebrate and glorify her; and to help others know her. Our Lady speaks to the children about her wounded heart. She asks them to do something. Mary asks for something to be done in Reparation for the wounds that she feels in her heart. She asks the children for five consecutive First Saturdays. She asks this for outrages against her heart. Why five consecutive Saturdays? Because of five specific outrages against her heart. Hear more within the audio.
There are five steps in the Reparation Process. They include: • Set aside five consecutive First Saturdays in the spirit of Reparation. Set aside the Saturdays for confession, Holy Communion, the Praying of the Rosary, and fifteen minutes meditating on the Mysteries Hear more about First Saturdays and Reparation.
When someone approaches Reparation in this manner, the grace of conversion of hearts will occur. Hear more within this conference.
The Prayer of Atonement to the Heart of Mary Lastly, hear the prayer, originally written in French, of St. John Eudes. This prayer was translated previously, and then read at the conclusion of this conference. May we suggest all people with a love of Mary . . . even better, all people with a love for Our Lord NEED to listen to this prayer. Listen intently and hear its power. It beautifully summarizes what Reparation to Our Lady entails.
Conference #4: The Third Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Consecration
The Pope’s Consecration of the World to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
In October 1942, something important happened. It was a little more than twenty-five years after the events of Fatima. Much was happening on this date. Millions had already died in World War II. Germany was advancing across North Africa to the Suez Canal. The Germans had invaded Russia. Most of Europe was under Germany’s brutal domination. In the Pacific, the Japanese had invaded China and was expanding across the Pacific. Evil mushroomed in the world, and at times there appears little that would resist it.
A Gold Crown was delivered to Fatima in honor of Our Lady that month. In Rome, in a land that was not free (it was under rule of another), the Holy Father Pope Pius XII said a prayer. The audio begins with that same prayer. Listen closely to it.
Prayer of Consecration This powerful prayer consecrates the whole world to Our Lady and to her Immaculate Heart. Shortly after this prayer was originally said, the English army stopped the advancement of Germany in North Africa. The process of liberating Europe by Canadian and US forces began successfully. The Battle of Stalingrad was the turning point of Russia turning back Germany on Russia soil on February 2, 1943 (which was then the Feast of the Purification of Our Lady). Shortly after this prayer was said, the Allied Forces turn the tide in the Pacific theatre.
Many other things influenced all these events. However, the results might be argued as not coincidental. What an amazing prayer . . . which consecrated the world to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
What is Consecration? So, what actually is Consecration? Consecration in the modern age has lost some of its actual meaning. Many make their Consecration to Mary. But, as the audio elaborates, there is NO one form of The Marian Consecration.
Consecration is an expression of belonging. Any real relationship . . . sooner or later involves belonging. It is intrinsic to human life. We belong to one another . . . in a variety of ways. It is this belonging that allows us to make claims on one another.
When we speak of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart . . . when we speak of Marian Consecration . . . we speak of belonging. When we examine this further, we realize that everyone is not able (or ready) to belong to Mary . . . on the same level. The forms of belonging vary. Listen to the audio for more information. How Do We Grow in Devotion to Our Lady? How do we grow in Devotion to Our Lady? The first place to start is not the specific book we pick up to read! Start with an idea in how you grow in any relationship! One needs to know the person . . . and beginning to open one’s life to the other person.
But how does that work in Marian Consecration? It involves that I give myself . . . or something of myself . . . to you. It is grounded in the life that you currently live. Not the life you’ll have 10 years from now . . . or the life you wish you have, but your current life. Why is this so? Listen to the audio.
The power of Marian Devotion does not consist of promises or messages. It is found in the way she relates to the reality of the lives we are actually living. Where does a mother hold her children? In her heart! When the Lord gives Mary to the disciple He loved, she held him in her heart. When He says behold your son . . . Jesus planted that disciple in her heart. And not just the disciple Jesus loved, but all of us as well . . . in her heart!
Jesus Plants All Of Us Into Mary’s Heart Regardless of one believing it or not . . . or wanting it or not . . . we all are in Mary’s heart! So when Our Lady comes to Fatima, at the time of a great worldly turmoil, she says . . . find your way here! There is a place here! You are already here . . . within my heart! Hear more about being in Mary’s heart . . . and what consecration does for us all!
Conference #5: Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: The Song of Mary’s Heart
Benediction Meditation: The Song of Mary’s Heart
One of the ways the Church speaks of the Heart of Our Lady, is that it is like the heart of king David. It is an instrument that makes inspired praise of the great things of God. This conference offers some reflections on the song within Our Lady’s Heart.
Suffering at the Service of Joy! What Does that Mean?
Upuntil today’s readings, the last thing you would think St. Paul would need is a word of encouragement.
We seen him beaten and thrown into prison. Scripture tells us of his singing in prison. We seen him stoned. Yet today’s reading (not included within this audio), the Lord comes to him in a vision and says, do not be afraid.
The Holy Spirit, through St. Luke in the Act of the Apostle, tells us St. Paul has received a regular consoling presence on the part of the Lord. The purpose of the St. Paul story is not for us to understand that this was a one shot reminder for Paul not to be afraid. Rather, it is a reminder that the Lord has been strengthening Paul throughout all his hardships.
It is this Peace of the Lord that has allowed Paul to continue his mission and preaching.
Why do we hear about Paul’s trials and sufferings? In the reading, and in today’s Gospel, we hear that there will be suffering. However, there is a point to the sufferings. Jesus says if you remain faithful, the violence will not overcome you! You will suffer from time to time. You will know grief, but you will not be overcome.
This grief may be profound, but it is a kind of grief that has a point to it. This is very important for all of us as well! The world thinks suffering never has a point. But the Lord says just the opposite!
The Lord says to His Apostles, and to Paul, you will suffer, but it is a different kind. It is a suffering in the direction of living. It is suffering in the direction of life. It is a hardship, that is at the service of joy!
Wow! What does that mean? How can suffering be at the service of Joy? What does suffering in the direction of life mean? Hear more in this Meditation Media!
Note: The Homily also discusses the meaning behind Ask in My Name . . . What does Jesus mean by that? How should we use that statement and knowledge in our own prayers?
Jesus is One with the Father . . . and . . .
In the Gospel we hear that Jesus is praying on Holy Thursday night.
Jesus prays to His Father. It rises from His heart . . . to His Father. The Lord, who could ask for anything, . . . asks for just one thing. This one thing must be important . . . because He asks on the night before His Passion. It must be a great thing.
If anyone prays the night before one dies, all of the superficial things fall away. Only the things that mean the most would remain. The night before He dies, Jesus prays. He prays in the presence of His Church. He prays with His Apostles gathered around Him. They are witnesses to His prayer.
On the night before He dies, He prays for His Apostles. He prays for all who will hear their witness and testimony. He prays not for them to be effective missionaries. He prays to His Father . . . that they be one.
The Father and Jesus are One . . . and . . . Understand what all that means! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Toward a Pro-Life Future in the Empire State On this day, the Most Rev. John O. Barres, Bishop of Rockville Center, gave the Homily at the Shrine.
This day was special as the New York State’s Knights of Columbus, as well as councils across Long Island, attended Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady.
The Homily may be segmented into three parts (with the approximate times listed below). The Gospel (0 – 1:15) precedes the first section of the Homily (1:24 – 2:55) and greets the Spanish speaking Knights of Columbus and Spanish attendees.
How Our Lady of Fatima’s Message is Relevant Today
The second section (2:55 – 16:28) of the Homily (and the remainder of the Homily) is in English. The Homily discusses How Our Lady of Fatima’s Message is relevant today as it was 105 years ago. Additionally, the Homily discusses the Mystery of the Cross, using St. Paul as an example for us all to bridge his own crosses, while helping others with their crosses. It is a model that we need to strive to emulate. Hear more in the audio.
The third section (16:30- 24:11) of the Homily focuses on a Catholic writers’ vision of What Jesus will ask us when we appear before Him on Judgement Day. Where are the Others? This is the question Jesus asks of us all. How did we help others reach salvation? We all have this challenge, and it can be met in many ways. The Homily focuses on some examples.
Where are the Elderly and Un-born? This question of Where are the Others may be expanded. Where are the elderly? Where are the un-born? Part of facing the Lord, will be the question . . . what did we each do to protect the elderly and the un-born.
The Bishop describes what is going on in New York State concerning the un-born and potential laws. He also urges all New Yorkers to read the statement published recently by the New York State Bishops (the document may be found on the Diocese of Rockville Center’s website and the Queen of All Hearts website). Toward a Pro-Life Future in the Empire State. We encourage all members (regardless of where you live) to read the document and to understand the position and activities of the Church in NYS on this crucial manner.
Our thanks to the Bishop, and to the New York State (and local) councils of the Knights of Columbus for attending today’s special Mass.
I am the Light of the World! How will you respond?
As the Apostles started their mission in spreading the news of the Gospels, we often do not realize that early in the process, the Apostles spoke in the synagogues.
There were many more synagogues outside of Judea than in Judea. In Greek cities, there were synagogues, and Jews who spoke Greek. St. Paul arrives at various Greek cities, but they are not complete strangers. While the Church begins its mission speaking in the synagogues, it will soon step out beyond them. The Homily provides more details.
I Have Not Come to Condemn the World
The Lord says in the Gospel several times, I am the Light. There is a difference between not seeing . . . because eyes medically do not work . . . and not seeing the Light. There are some things that only Jesus . . . only the Light reveals. There is a seeing that is not possible without His Light. There is a knowing that is not possible, unless He is present.
Whoever sees Me . . .sees the One who sent Me! I am never alone, because He is always with Me! The two are inseparable. If you desire the Father, then you will come through Me.
I Am The Light
Jesus has not come into the world to condemn the non-believers . . . not to condemn anyone. He has come for one reason . . . for the sake of salvation. If you do not accept Me, Jesus says, I am not here to condemn you.
Jesus’ Words are not merely His. They are also the Father’s. So, if you reject Jesus, do not fool yourself saying you’ll have a relationship with God. That is not correct. Salvation is through Jesus.
The Church goes out and preaches that Jesus is the Light of the World. The Church also says that each individual was created for this time, and asks how will you respond to the Light of the World? The Church asks us all . . . how will you respond?
Hear the implications of this statement. Listen to this Meditation Media.
St. Matthias, the Apostolic Witness and . . . part of the Divine Plan
St. Matthias often is considered an afterthought Apostle.
We likely have heard of him, but many do not know much about him. He is most definitely, not an afterthought. We hear from St. Peter that another coming into the twelfth spot was anticipated. The Lord knows of this . . . and it was mentioned in the Psalms.
St. Matthias is not an accident of history. It should be viewed as part of the Divine Plan. The Homily tells us about St. Peter and the will of God for another to take the place of the vacant twelfth spot. St. Peter tells us that they must get it right to complete the twelve, because it impacts salvation. In the Divine Plan, it was important there was twelve Apostles, not eleven.
Why Twelve Apostles? Why twelve Apostles? Well, it could be an echo of the twelve tribes of Israel. But no, this number in the Divine Plan is not an echo. The Lord says he is not continuing with the old, but rather He is building a new people. A new Israel. A new People of God, which will embrace the entire world. Not twelve tribes . . . but twelve witnesses.
The Apostles talk to the people of God . . . not because of their blood. They call on people to blood . . . the Precious Blood of Christ. The Apostles go onto witness to the entire world.
Hear why it was important there was twelve Apostles. Listen about St. Matthias, and why he was chosen. St. Matthias, the Apostolic Witness and . . . part of the Divine Plan.
Fatima, Despite Tens of Thousands Seeing the Miracle, is a Private Revelation!
We hear sounds all arounds us.
We rarely pause . . . just to really listen. The sounds and messages we hear often distracts from the words we should hear. The Word of the Lord.
Fatima, despite the fact that tens of thousands of people saw the Miracle of the Sun, was not a public revelation. That is hard to believe. Despite the messages given . . . it was not a public revelation! It is a private revelation.
Why is it not a public revelation? Because public revelations stopped with the last Apostle. God does not reveal something new at Fatima! Interesting! We celebrate Fatima and all that makes it great . . . but, there is nothing about it that is new, except for the details. The visit of Our Lady is an echo to the world of the great speaking of Jesus.
When we understand that, the real power of Our Lady’s visit, begins to manifest itself. Fatima is not merely Our Lady’s concern for the world. It is heaven’s concern for the world! She speaks to the world with a gentle sharpness. What does that mean? Hear more in the Homily.
Our Lady of Fatima speaks with a sharpness. She talks of the sins of the world. She does so to help people move toward the light. The message cuts the heart to lead us to the light and to grace and to joy.
Again, the message of Fatima takes on a different light with this perspective. This is important to understand! Listen to why this is a private revelation! Listen to the Gentleness and Sharpness of Fatima!
Hear more, also, about a special Philippines’ moment and memory of Our Lady and Our Lord.
How does one know if you are part of His flock?
Who are the members of Our Lord’s flock?
We hear the echo of last Sunday’s Good Shepherd scripture. Jesus uses this title . . . and it does not appear out of nowhere. Moses was a shepherd, tending the flock of his father-in-law when he saw the burning bush. David, the great king, was at one time . . . a shepherd boy. Psalms reference “we are His people, the Shepherd of His flock”. The Lord Himself describes Himself as the Good Shepherd.
So the question that arises is . . . who is Your flock? That is today’s question from the readings. In today’s Gospel, the Jewish leaders approach Jesus and say . . . tell us plainly, are you the Messiah or not? Jesus then references His mighty deeds and teachings. He tells His audience despite these things, you refuse to receive the message. You are withholding judgement until you get one more piece of evidence. There is always a need for one more piece of evidence . . . regardless of what has already been done. The Jewish leaders are refusing to make a decision . . . refusing to believe . . . delaying making a decision.
There is a simple reason why you do not believe I am your Savior, Jesus tells the leaders. It is because you are not of My flock. Wow! What a sobering statement that is!
How does one know if you are part of His flock? Hear more in this Meditation Media.
What Does Jesus Think . . . of Motherhood?
This is the fourth Sunday of Easter.
It is a day that the Church reminds us the victory of the Resurrection is not only a victory for Jesus, but a victory that involves us! Why this day is special and what it means within the Church is briefly discussed.
During the Homily a different view of the Good Shepherd is discussed referring to an icon. The icon appears on the website's post. Examine it while the homily refers to the icon.
What Does Jesus Think . . . of Motherhood? The Church doesn’t directly celebrate Mother’s Day, but we do! Curiously, there is no one that celebrates Motherhood greater than Jesus. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, comes into this world by preparing for Himself . . . a perfect mother! Obviously, we all love our mothers. But there is something that is not thought of enough by Christians.
There is something marvelous about motherhood that the Word of God was pleased to experience it Himself. Think about that statement. God, the Creator of Man, was pleased to experience motherhood. There can be no greater statement about the dignity of motherhood than that.
Hear more about what Jesus thinks of motherhood. Listen to this Mediation Media.
Who ever sees Me . . . you have seen the Father
The Apostolic Nature of the Church.
After 2000 years of history, we need to be periodically reminded. It is important to recall just where the Apostolic witness comes from and what it consists.
If one was to explain . . . who is Jesus, where would you start? Why is He important? Where do you begin to explain? The resurrection is the starting point of the Apostolic witness of the Church. The Apostolic witness is from those who encountered Jesus risen from the dead.
This is where one begins. The Apostles’ witness. Hear more within this Homily.
The Lord says whoever sees Me . . . you have seen the Father. Jesus is speaking about more the physical resemblance. Hear more about what this means. Listen to this Meditation Media.
If the Apostles Stayed in Jerusalem . . . How Did the Good News Spread? Deacon Phillip Was One Way
We recently heard about St. Stephen. A Deacon, and a Jew, he went out as a disciple.
Upon preaching, he was stoned to death. There is a certain tolerance of mob violence in Israel, under Roman rule. The Jewish leaders previously said we do not have the authority to put someone to death (in the case of Jesus). On the other hand . . . there are numerous cases of people getting stoned.
The mob violence is a combination of lawlessness and lawfulness. Mob violence and mob violence encouraged by Jewish leaders. It is an odd limit of lawfulness.
We hear in the readings that as the result of the persecution, many believers left Jerusalem and took the Gospel elsewhere. This is actually the case several times in the history of the Church. The attempts to stop the spread of the Gospel via persecution, leads to the spread of the Gospel. Believes leave and are witnesses of the faith . . .spreaders of the faith.
Deacon Phillip Was One Way We also hear something strange. As the result of the persecutions, the Christian community leaves Jerusalem . . . except for the Apostles. The question arises . . . if the Apostles are in Jerusalem . . . who is this Phillip that we hear in the readings (not included within this audio)? One of the traditions says he is Phillip the Deacon.
If you receive me . . . you receive the Father. Hear more about the Giver of the Eternal Bread. Listen to this Meditation media.
Christ Charges Peter
In today’s Gospel there is more than one fishing expedition.
It is important for our own spirituality to understand that. We hear that St. Peter, and the other disciples went fishing and caught nothing all night. As light was starting to shine, Jesus was on the shoreline. He said to the disciples, cast your nets over the right side of the boat. They did and ultimately caught 153 large fish.
This is the lesser of the two fishing expeditions. A long night that produced nothing. This might sound very familiar for us all! In our own prayer, as we cast out our own nets of faith and devotion, often we are in the dark and come up . . . seemingly empty. Hear more about this first fishing expedition . . . and what it means for us!
The More Important Fishing Expedition The seconding fishing expedition . . . is really subtle. Jesus asks Peter three times . . . Do You Love Me? Many may think this is Jesus getting back at Peter for his three times denial. They are in front of a charcoal fire. There are only two charcoal fires referenced in the bible. The first, during the Passion when Peter warms himself just before denying Jesus three times.
Now we have Jesus, in front of a fire and asks Peter three times. Why? This is the second fishing expedition. We might not realize it in these terms. The questions are beautiful. Do you Love Me More Than These Others? What He is really asking . . . Are you seeking greatness in the love for Me? Do you want a love for Me beyond the ordinary? Peter responds . . . Yes, Lord, I Love You. Implying I want that love to be strong. Jesus further responds . . . Feed my lambs.
A Deeper Love Not Known by Peter Jesus asks the second question. Do You Love Me? This is not how does your love stack up against others! It is how real is your love for Me? Peter pauses. He has to look deeper into his heart. Why? At one time Peter thought his love would never fail. But during the Passion . . . it did . . . he did fail. He has to dig deeper into his heart before he responds to the Lord. Yes Lord. . . I do. Jesus responds with tend My sheep.
Now Jesus asks a third question. Do you love Me? This third question is Jesus throwing His net and Jesus is fishing. He casts the net into Peter’s heart. Hear more about this in the audio.
After the questions: Jesus says Follow Me. These are the last words to Peter. Don’t Follow Me like you used to follow me. Follow Me differently now! Again, hear what this means for us!
In the end, Jesus goes fishing with Peter . . . on the shoreline. He pulls out of Peter responses that Peter alone likely would not have achieved. He also Charges Peter with the Church.
Hear what this type of fishing means for us! Hear what Jesus charges Peter. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Nicodemus . . . is He Seeking the Lord . . . or Merely Curious?
Was He A Saint . . . Or Merely Curious?
Nicodemus is a fascinating character in scripture.
He appears by name, only in St. John’s Gospel. Nicodemus appears early in St. John’s Gospel (cf: Jn 3) as a member of the Jewish leaders. He is curious about Jesus and comes to Him at night . . . in the darkness.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to Nicodemus and he learns from Him. Later in St. John’s Gospel, Nicodemus stands up against the other leaders. Yet as he is challenged by the leaders, he says nothing. He appears again on Calvary. He is there when Our Lord is taken down. We also hear that he has over 100 pounds of ointment to take care of the body of Jesus. Hear more within the audio.
Nicodemus sits with Jesus as he arrives in the darkness. When he leaves, it is still dark. He is fascinated by Jesus. He has a certain degree of support for Jesus . . . but he has a degree of tentativeness about him.
. . . is He Seeking the Lord . . . Nicodemus is odd, because we never see him make a clear act of faith. In a way, when we think about it; there are many Christians today that are more like Nicodemus . . . than the disciples. We have been baptized; we have a degree of esteem for Jesus; but many waver as to our faith. Are we really going to give ourselves to Jesus . . . or not?
Our understanding of Nicodemus appears around the world in Christian communities. They believe Jesus is great to have around. They spend some time during certain times of the year . . . paying attention to Him. However, most times, if other things come up . . .they are important too!
. . . or Merely Curious? Amazingly, if you see Nicodemus in art, paintings, and even certain stations of The Cross, all of the characters (Mary, the Holy Women, St. John, etc.) have halos. Nicodemus, often, does not.
At Fatima, if you look at the outside stations art, one will see most of the characters with their eyes closed. This represents the blindness of faith . . . which sees clearly. As for Nicodemus, his eyes are half way opened and half way closed. He is caught between blindness and the sight of the world. Nicodemus is between belief . . . and unbelief. He is between following the Lord . . . and not following.
Nicodemus is never hostile. In fact, he is never a bad guy. But he is also not particularly good. Listen to more about Nicodemus. Listen to the comparison of the world, and its spirituality, and what a good Christian is called upon to do. Hear more about Nicodemus . . . is He Seeking the Lord . . . or Merely Curious? Mediate on this Media set.
St. Peter and St. John Healing and Preaching . . . in the Name of Jesus
. . . in the Name of Jesus Today, two thousand years after the birth of Christ, . . .
Christian believers think all Jewish people of the time celebrated the same way. Not so! For example, there were pockets of Jewish people that did not believe in the resurrection. Other pockets did believe. So for some pockets of Jewish people at that time, Jesus was doubly problematic. They disagreed that He was the Son of God. Obviously, many did not believe that. They also did not believe in the Resurrection news of Jesus when that was preached by the disciples, including St. Peter and St. John. The traditions of their fathers did not permit such beliefs.
Traditions
The leaders of the Jewish people carried on a tradition handed down by Moses. Israel always looked beyond itself for fulfillment. They looked for a Messiah to come. The leaders refused to believe, however, that Jesus was that fulfillment.
The Christian traditions did not and does not look beyond itself. We do not wait for another. Why is this important? Hear more within the audio.
So during those times, we have two traditions; the Jewish tradition of looking beyond itself and the Christian tradition of looking to Jesus. When Jesus explained to Nicodemus who He is, Jesus said I am the only Begotten Son of the Father. People need not, therefore, look for another.
God’s Only Begotten Son
For all people, to believe in Jesus, they must believe He is God’s only Begotten Son . . . He is the Great Messenger. There is no one greater that will be coming after Him.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus says the light of the world is here. Yet, the world and the human hearts prefers darkness. Those that prefer darkness, Jesus does not condemn them. People preferring darkness condemn themselves. Salvation depends upon an individual relationship with Jesus.
Hear more and Meditate on Jesus’ words in today’s Gospel . . . I am the light of the world.
Meditate on today’s Media.
The Point Where Heaven Touches Earth
On the Feast of St. Louis de Montfort (April 28th) we honor our Savior. We honor our Savior, the Word Who Became Flesh, yet He could not speak as an infant. He had to grow into speaking. We honor the Savior, the very Presence of God, Who hid Himself for thirty years.
Over these seven weeks of Easter, we honor the Our Lord for His Resurrection, He, Who does not reveal His resurrection to the world. He is pleased to hide His resurrection in the voices of the Apostles and Disciples sent forth across to world. The audio further discusses St. Louis de Montfort’s preaching and his vocation.
Psalm 19: The Heavens Declare the Glory of God
Fr. de Montfort would let the light of the Gospel shine upon him. He lived conscious of the bright light of Jesus’ victory. However cloudy it was in the world, Montfort’s spirit always walked within the light of Jesus’ victory. He would allow nothing in his life to be concealed from this light.
In Psalm 19 it states At one end of the sky . . . What do we mean by the end of the sky? It is The Point where Heaven Touches Earth. At the point where Heaven meets the Earth is the rising and coming forth of the light. This point has a name. Her name is Mary! She is the Tent . . . the Point . . . that the Lord has placed at the end of the sky! She is the point where Heaven meets Earth!
The Point Heaven Touches the Earth
For Fr. de Montfort, the secret of living in the light begins by finding that Tent . . . by finding the point where Heaven meets Earth.
Listen and Meditate about the Point Where Heaven Touches the Earth! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Reflections: How to Grow in Spirituality For anyone interested in growing in Montfortian Spirituality, the French School of Spirituality, for which Fr, de Montfort was the last from that school, has a starting point from which one prays. It consists of the coupling of two things we Christians do not normally put together. In scripture we often hear about Jesus . . . the servant. Jesus came into this world to serve. The homily goes on to describe this further. However, scripture also tells us of the times Jesus is at prayer. Several examples are cited. The French School of Spirituality states that separation of these two actions . . . service and prayer . . . is not correct and is not healthy. These two areas are important for our spirituality and the school insists on the coupling of the two . . . adoration and service. Hear why these two areas are coupled within the audio . . . and what it means to our spirituality. Fr. de Montfort had a great love for the Mystery of the Incarnation. He always saw the Blessed Trinity within this Mystery. He sees the Son of God, the Word, being born. Always coming forth from the Father. The Son is always begotten from the Father; always receiving from the Father. The audio speaks on this further. Spirituality, for Fr. de Montfort, begins with gazing into the Trinity. It follows that gaze, following the movement of God, into the Mystery of the Incarnation. This is where St. Louis de Montfort is at home within his Spirituality. The Mystery of the Incarnation begins with the Adoration of the Word becoming flesh. Begins with Jesus Living in Mary. The audio explains this further.
What is Devotion to the Mystery of the Incarnation? It begins with paying attention to this Mystery. Few Christians spend much time paying attention to this Mystery! Largely unfamiliar to many. Hear more about this within the audio.
The Incarnation first and foremost is about Jesus . . . the Word Becomes Flesh! However, one can not contemplate this Mystery in its fullness without seeing Mary. In this Mystery, one sees and gazes upon Jesus’ face through Mary. Why gaze at Mary? Because that is where one finds the hidden face of Jesus. Mary, the woman clothed with the Son.
For Fr. de Montfort, a solid devotion to Our Lady comes from knowing her. Knowing her in a way that this knowledge provokes us to love her. What happens when doing so? It produces a movement of love and knowledge in the heart. A movement not only for Our Lady, but for Our Lord. The Lord becomes more than a friend and companion. And, what does love seek to do? It seeks to show itself. The more I adore the Lord, the more I will seek to move in harmony with the Lord. Hear more within the audio!
The model for the Christian then, is the adoring and serving the Lord. Its important to understand this. Before serving, the Lord prays. After doing some service . . . He prays and shows the face of His Glory. Around all the prayer . . . and flowing from it . . . is the service. The two actions . . . becomes one. Hear more in the audio.
Seek to Know and Do the Will of God! Today, spirituality and prayer experts recommend certain resources. However, the deeper Spirituality masters recommend the following: Seek to know and do the will of God! . . . and you will grow Spiritually. It is not a manner of technique or saying one prayer vs. another. Growing Spiritually involves gazing at the Lord, seeking to know Him and then correspond and act upon that knowledge. Hear more in the audio. God is more glorified in these things, than with anything I could do on my own. Hear more on obtaining Spiritual Growth through Prayer and Service. Listen to this Spiritual Insight On How to Grow in Spirituality!
I Want To Be Like . . . Doubting Thomas?
I Want To Be Like . . .
On Divine Mercy Sunday, the Gospel passages reveal the story of Doubting Thomas.
The Homily first offers some brief reflections.
Happy Easter! It is the last day of the Easter octave, and also Divine Mercy Sunday. The Gospel begins on Easter Sunday, and ends one week later on what we call now Divine Mercy Sunday. This day concludes the passages on the Resurrection of the Lord. The Church turns toward a world that needs to receive the Joy of the Resurrection. The Homily offers several reflections on this topic.
In todays readings, contact is at issue. Its not a word normally used in today’s world, but it is so important. In the readings (not included within this audio set), the world scrambles to bring the sick and dying so that even the shadow of St. Peter and St. John can rest upon them and cure them, in the name of Jesus. The homily briefly discusses the importance.
However, today we also hear in the Gospel about Our Lord appearing on Easter Sunday to the Apostles, all but Thomas. Now this story, which occurred two thousand years ago is well known. It is often given cursory attention, because it is so well known . . . or so many believe so.
. . . Doubting Thomas? Thomas was not with the other Apostles when Jesus appeared behind closed / locked doors. When Thomas returns, the remaining Apostles tell him . . . we have seen the Lord. Thomas response implied . . . no you did not. The Apostles say they have seen Him! Again, implied by Thomas, you have not! I will not believe until I can place my finger in His nail wounds and put my hand in His side. For many . . . the word doubting is coupled with the name Thomas as a result. Why on Earth would anyone want to be like . . . Thomas?
Because Thomas reveals something we all must take notice of . . .and few do. He should not be coupled with the word Doubting. He says something that is perhaps the greatest statement of faith in all of scripture (more on this later).
Thomas’ point to the Apostles is . . . you saw the Lord . . . the risen Christ, and all you did was look? If you saw Him, why isn’t your message to the world effective? You did not bask in His glory? You only looked? Why did you not touch his wounds . . . you only looked? Did you not touch His Glory and rejoice in it? You did not come in contact with Him?
Easter is the Mystery in which the Lord makes contact with us! Hear more about what this mean and why it is important to our spiritual well-being.
After coming in contact with the Lord, Thomas kneels and looks up to the Lord and says . . . My Lord and My God. It is perhaps the greatest statement of faith in scripture. Hear more about Thomas. Hear more about why we all should strive to be like Thomas!
Listen and Meditate on today’s message.
What Happened at Three O’clock?
On the afternoon of Divine Mercy Sunday, we hear the Gospel of Good Friday!
That is very curious! Yet this specific Gospel has much to teach us about this day . . . Divine Mercy Sunday.
We hear in St. Matthew’s Gospel about the darkness that settled over the Earth. It is common in Divine Mercy devotion that three o’clock is the hour of mercy. What happened at Three O’clock? Much happens at 3 o’clock. At that hour, St. Matthew tells us, that the Lord cries out . . . My God, My God . . . Why Have You Forsaken Me? When Jesus cries out . . . He does not look toward heaven and cry about His own personal pain! No! He does so to fulfill a line within the Psalms. Here more in this Homily.
At this hour He surrenders His Spirit . . . to save us! When He surrenders His Spirit . . . the sun shines again! There is darkness when He suffers on The Cross, but as He dies . . . the sun shines. Amazingly, when He dies, the world would normally think of the darkness of the grave . . . it becomes light. Darkness dissipates. The sun did not shine during the darkness of the Passion. Now it becomes light! It is the first note anticipating the resurrection.
At 3 o’clock . . . when there is light . . . the earth trembles. It shakes.
Hear What else happens at three o’clock! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Mary Magdalen Desires the Lord on Easter Sunday
The Gospel this week are all about Easter Sunday . .. a day that lasts eight twenty-four hour periods.
On this day, the Gospel is the “do not touch me for I have not ascended to the Father”. Mary of Magdalen weeps and refuses to leave the tomb. On Easter Sunday morning we hear she saw the empty tomb and ran to tell the Apostles. Mary comes back with them, and remains after they leave. She weeps. She does not want to move.
Mary looks into the tomb and sees two angels. Often when someone in scripture sees an angel they are overwhelmed. However, Mary is not overwhelmed by the angels. She sees them and at first does not react. They ask her; Woman, why are you weeping.
Mary looks at the angels and explains. They have taken him away and I do not know where He is. Angels are not enough for Mary. Her desire is for Jesus . . . not for an angel. Her desire is for Jesus . . . and not a lesser consolation. Hear more about this amazing exchange.
The eyes long to see Jesus, and they do not, and so she weeps. They eyes long to know where Jesus is and so she weeps. Mary weeps not because of the mystery of the Passion; it is not because Jesus died. It is deeper and more complex. Hear more in this Homily.
Mary turns away from the angel, she looks outside the tomb. She sees Jesus . . . but does not recognize Him. Her eyes see Him, but they do not know Him. She desires to see Jesus . . . but she does not know Him.
Hear more about this storage and the message for our own Spiritual Journey.
The Road to Emmaus
The Gospel today is The Road to Emmaus.
Before addressing these passages in the Homily, one of the readings is first discussed (not included within this audio). We hear that a cripple man is carried to the gate / door of the temple to beg. At night, someone carries him home. The next day the process is repeated. These details are not unimportant. The Holy Spirit places this mental image before us . . . as well as our own fallen / needy condition. The cripple is at the door of the temple to beg. He is not there to pray . . . only to beg. He is there to seek worldly aid from those going into the temple. Peter and John both stop to talk to the man. Hear more about this first reading and the impact on our own spiritual life.
The Homily then advances to the Gospel passage: The Road to Emmaus. Two disciples are thinking, talking and struggling to understand and come to terms with everything that has happened. Not just the events of Good Friday. They are struggling to understand the events before Good Friday . . . indeed the last three years. They are struggling to understand how Good Friday impacts these events and their understanding.
What they do not realize is they are standing in the middle of an unfinished story! They think they know . . . because Jesus died on The Cross. They believe nothing can happen after His death. As they walk, they are dealing with all the signs that Jesus was something more . . . then He was taken from them! They are disappointed and puzzled as they leave the Holy City.
The Lord appears to these two disciples . . . but their eyes are prevented from recognizing Jesus. As they continue to walk, Jesus reshapes the conversation. He guides and shapes their conversation and their understanding.
Hear how this passage impacts our own spiritual journey. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Easter is for the Young at Heart!
In today’s Gospel, the second of two Easter Sunday Homilies, there is a lot of movement. We hear Mary Magdalen running to tell the Apostles the Lord is missing. We hear about St. Peter and St. John running to the empty tomb. Movement in the Gospel and movement in our faith . . . is important. Why? Hear more within the Homily.
Easter is for the young . . . the young at heart. Regardless of your body age . . . it is for the young at heart. What does that mean? Hear the second of two Easter Homilies . . . given at the outside Easter Mass.
Last Gospel & Homily of Lent: Judas Prepares the Betrayal: Impact on Our Spiritual Journey!
Lent begins on a Wednesday, marked by ashes, with the hope to change our hearts.
The last Mass of Lent is held on a Wednesday and comes to a conclusion with the reading about Judas’ at the Last Supper . . . preparing to betray the Lord. Judas has a heart that did not change.
It is not an accident that the Gospel is about Judas. The Church puts this image before our eyes before the events of the Passion. We are given a glimpse of the need to suffer in the first reading (not included in this audio) and Psalm #69.
There are two movements on display here. The first is the movement by God after the fall of man. A movement in which He will save this sin fallen world.
Listen to these movements and what this Gospel means to us in our own Spiritual Journey.
Humanity Also Rises From the Tomb
Nobody sees Jesus in the Gospel Easter account.
He did not appear to everyone. He was not seen by the world. The world saw Good Friday, but not the Risen Jesus. The first Easter morning . . . a woman arrived at the tomb, and it was still dark.
We all experience darkness. The woman saw something that sent the darkness away. The bolder was rolled away. The Lord was not there. The Lord rises and lifts us all with him out of the tomb. Humanity also rises out of the tomb. Understand the victory of Easter.
Hear more about the impact of Easter morning in this first of two Easter Sunday Homilies. Listen to this Meditation Media.
We Suffer Not Because We Know God Will Protect Us, But Because He is Our God Who Are We Going to Be?
In Chapter 8 of St. John’s Gospel, Jesus has a long conversation . . . over several days’ Gospel readings.
Everything is about the acceptance of Jesus Christ. The ability to accept Christ . . . for the Jews during Jesus’ ministry, and for us today . . . depends on one’s heart. Do they (we) give our hearts to God . . . or not? Uniquely, Jesus speaks to some who believe in Him. Yet, they are trying to kill Him. In the Gospel, Jesus points out an interesting statement on real faith. Listen to the homily to hear more.
The Homily reviews an earlier reading from the Book of Daniel (not included within this audio). The Babylonians rule Israel. The king requires all in the kingdom to bow down and worship an idol . . . built by the king. Three young men say no. The three young men’s answer is amazing. Again, they say no. They continue and say . . . God will save them from evil. And if He doesn’t . . . that is OK also. Wow! Talk about faith. They enter the furnace, not because they are convinced that God will rescue them. These men enter the furnace because they are His. They belong to God . . . and no one else. Wow! Hear more about these young men’s faith. Faithfulness not because of what God will do for them . . . but because He is their God. What will we do for the Lord?
Hear more in this special Lenten Meditation Media.
The Brevity of the Palm-on-Palm Sunday Signifies What Appears Brief Earthly Victory . . . But That is Not What Christians Celebrate!
The Brevity of the Palm-on-Palm Sunday Signifies What Appears Brief Earthly Victory . . .
The brevity of the palm, handed out to Christians around the world on Palm Sunday, is important on this day.
Palms will dry out in a manner of days. They will be lifeless very soon. They do not last long, lose their flexibility and their green color. So why do we collect palms on Palm Sunday? Why are they important to Christians?
Palms mirror what happens on Palm Sunday and within the day’s Gospel. Christians receive the palms, they are blessed . . . and wave them greeting the arrival of Our Lord! We experience the joy of the day . . . the joy of His presence! We then are confronted with the majesty of His death on the Cross for us! The joy is brief before we enter the Passion.
Joy quickly will turn into sorrow. Victory turns . . . it would appear . . . into defeat. The Palm and the Lord loses their life. Palms are waived because they are the symbol of victory . . . not just honor . . . but victory!
. . . But That is Not What Christians Celebrate! The Victor is hailed . . . then we see Him in what appears to be defeat. Those that hailed Him with Palms . . . would soon yell “Crucify Him”. Those that reach out for Palms . . . would soon reach out for rocks to throw at Him. They would reach out and nail Him to the Cross. How brief the Victor appears on Palm Sunday . . . or does it?
Listen to this Mediation (13 minute) Media on the importance of Palm Sunday!
How We Should Seek the Lord
How We Should . . .
The Gospel (and reading) is important to the Mysteries that will be revealed during Holy Week.
In the reading (not included within this audio clip) the Jewish people are nearing the end of their time in the dessert. It’s been 40 years. They have grown tired and exhausted. The Jewish people are tired with the “manna from heaven”. They are experiencing frustration. In their frustration, they look backwards. They look at all the things they have to give up . . . and where did that get us? We are nowhere. Nothing grows in the dessert. Why are we here? Why bring us to a place where we will starve? It’s not the first time these things are said.
However often the Lord has responded in the past . . . they forget and only see what is immediately in front of them. A wasteland. This states volumes about the human heart. Even today. During the season of Lent; we give things up. Many begin with enthusiasm within their heart. Often, this disappears . . . and we forget. We know we are moving to the victory of the Cross. But Lent can become a grind. We look forward to stopping whatever we have given up. Spiritually, we may be impacted. Here more in the audio.
. . . Seek the Lord Israel assumes that the Lord’s intentions are not good for me. Have we ever experienced those feelings? The Israel experience once more a need for the Lord with the serpents. The Lord tells Moses what he must do to change the people’s heart . . .and to heal them. The pole reminds the people of what happens when the people ask to be left alone.
We experience desperation when we ignore the Lord. Hear how this should influence our own spiritual life. Hear what happens when we are not with the Lord and do not have the Lord in our hearts. Listen to how we should seek the Lord. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Martyrdom of St. Polycarp . . . a Lesson in Faith
One of the great things about Catholic traditions, is that we do not forget our history.
On this day (Feb. 23), the Church celebrates one of the early martyrs . . . Saint Polycarp. His feast (memorial) day is celebrated each year, but many Christians are unaware of this saint.
Polycarp is a giant in the Christian tradition. He was a disciple of the Apostle John the Evangelist. St. John himself named Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna. He was appointed to guide and lead the Church in this city. In the Book of Revelations, the Church in Smyrna is mentioned. Hear more within the audio.
Polycarp is celebrated for his incredible dignity in which he taught the faith of the Church. This was precious for Polycarp. Listen to the audio which explains this in detail.
At the end of his life, Polycarp will spill his blood in defense of the faith. If they came for me, the Lord says, they will come for you. As an old man, Polycarp is living in a time when Christians are asked to burn incense and are required to refer to Caesar as lord . . . for those that do not, they will be torn apart by beasts. The martyrdoms began to happen. Polycarp knew that his time will come . . . when the Romans will demand he does the same. From the book – The Acts of the Martyrdom of Polycarp – the audio recounts how he gave his life. Hear more from this audio.
Understand how Polycarp’s death, was modeled on what he was taught by St. John the Evangelist about the death of Jesus. Hear more about faith and this hidden lesson. Understand how Polycarp’s faith might influence our own Spiritual Life.
Jesus Tells Us of Eternal Reward . . . And the Reverse
The Homily opens again with St James letter (not included within this audio).
Scripture recounts someone who has stored up his treasures for the last days. Worldly goods are stored. Scripture says lets look at your wealth. You withheld wages from your workers. How will that help you in your last days?! You exploited others! That is not really going to help you in your last days! James does not say . . . if you are wealthy you are damned. No! There is a danger when one gives oneself over to profit or worldly goods. Hear more about what James tells us!
In the Gospel, there is a similar theme that Jesus speaks to us! A simple thing . . . a simple act of giving someone a cup of water, because they are connected to the Lord. . . has a touch of eternity. Then Jesus continues the discussion. If one causes a little one to pull away from the Lord . . . Or, if one focuses only on worldly goods . . . He describes what will happen!
Listen to what the Lord tells us about Eternal Reward . . . and What We Need to Do Now! Listen to this Meditation Media.
Jesus Talks about Marriage
The Homily first begins with the St. James’ letter (not included in this audio).
The audio reviews some of the messages within St. James’ letter . . . including communication and human complaining. It also reviews doing the will of God and surrendering to the Lord. Surrendering to the will of God, opens one up to the graces the Lord desires for us! Listen to more within this audio.
The Gospel story is a question posed to Jesus. Jesus talks about the nature of marriage. But before scripture tells us what Jesus says, immediately before is a note on what it is to engage the will of God and live the life of faith. There is a connection between these two points.
Note how the Pharisees begin addressing Jesus. Is it lawful (or permitted) to divorce …? This is the trap that the human heart . . . often believers’ hearts . . . fall into regularly. What am I allowed to do? Or, what can I get away with?
What did Jesus say? He said, what did Moses command you? What did Moses say you SHOULD do? The scripture is subtle here. It is fundamental to understanding this passage more fully. Scripture is not at the service of telling us . . . what we are allowed to do! Scripture tells us what the will of God is for our lives! What we should do!
Real freedom is not doing what you are allowed to do! Real freedom is actually doing what you should be doing in the first place! Wow! A novel concept! Hear more within the audio.
Jesus Tells Us About the Nature of Marriage . . . and Its Importance
Hear what Jesus says about marriage and the meaning of marriage! In today’s world, marriage has many definitions. The audio covers several. But the world’s view is not God’s view of marriage. This passage is often regulated to . . . can one divorce or not . . . and can they still receive the sacraments. While this is not unimportant, that is not the essential element of the passage. Again, that is not God’s view of marriage.
Jesus grounds His discussion . . . In the beginning, God made them man and woman . . . and they were made for each other. God made human beings . . . and therefore, human relationships have their origin in GOD! The Homily continues . . . scriptures tells us . . . that is the reason man will leave his family.
Man and Woman’s relation is a higher love than a son’s (and daughter’s) relationship with his (her) mother and father. Man and woman’s relationship origin is a higher love. Hear more about this higher love.
Jesus further says . . . God affects this. In each marriage ceremony the Church includes the following . . . what God has joined . . . Not what man and woman joins! What God has joined! Marriage is not simply the uniting of a man and woman. God unites man and woman. What actually does that mean? In matrimony, the man and woman surrender to the movement of divine grace! Hear more what Jesus says.
Jesus concludes: All human love comes from the love of man and woman. Listen to what that means! Understand the holiness of marriage. Understand how God views marriage! Listen to this Meditation Media on marriage.
The sick and sinners are often cut off from the community. Jesus tells us no! Fr. Hugh Gillespie, SMM Do Not Cut Yourself Off From the Community . . . From Prayer
In this Homily, there are two important lessons for all Christians!
In today’s Homily, the audio references both the Gospel and St. James’ Letter. St. James(not included within this audio) talks about those that are ill and those that have sinned. In fact, the St. James passage is the beginning . . . of the anointing of the sick. In both cases (illness and sinners), often these people are cut off from the community. St. James says . . . when you are ill or have sinned . . . pray. When things are going well . . . rejoice in the Lord. Why? Because you are never really alone in those things.
It is also important to realize . . . that it is never just you and the Lord experiencing the joy . . . or experiencing the pain and/or sorrows! Hear more within the audio.
Come to Jesus Like Children . . . A Lesson for All Parents
In the Gospel, the story is the children running to Jesus. In the Homily, it is specifically mentioned that the parents bring their children to Jesus. They are brought to Him. Drawing near to Him . . . they find Him and approach Him. Hear more about parenthood, children and Jesus.
Listen to this important lesson for Christians . . . and Meditate on it!
Jesus Tells Us: Remove the Beam from Your Eye
Jesus’ Message to Us!
Today’s Gospel, with the story of the splinter and the beam, Jesus gives us a lesson.
Jesus tells us we often see small details and miss the big picture. Isn’t it amazing when something small happens to us . . . we often get very upset. For some of us, a tiny inconvenience often leads to a larger reaction than what should be appropriate. When we focus on smaller things, we often miss the larger things in one self. Listen to the story of the splinter and the beam. Understand what Jesus is saying to us and our spiritual life.
Pick up Your Daily Cross . . . and Follow Me!
Pick up Your Daily Cross
Do I Want to Follow Jesus . . . Or Not!
Each day during Lent, special graces are prayed for daily. And at the conclusion of Mass, the priest can say a special prayer over the congregation. These two prayers . . . at the beginning and end of Mass the Church calls upon particular graces to help us! Help us move through the Lenten Season. The audio goes on and explains this in detail, as well as how the week-day readings speak to one another. Listen to understand the daily graces and what it means for all of us!
The audio then explains the Responsorial Psalm. The Responsorial does not mean . . . the congregation’s response! In fact, the congregation’s response is actually optional! It is called the responsorial psalm because it is actually chosen in response to the first reading! Hear more in the audio!
The Homily then goes on and speaks about the opening and closing prayers that are said daily . . . for all those in attendance . . . and for all Catholics, because of life circumstances, cannot attend daily Mass. Nevertheless, many people in their homes are preparing themselves during the Lenten Season. Hear more within the audio.
. . . and Follow Me!
In the Homily, the audio speaks to life and death choices we all must make. In the first reading (not included within this audio), Moses asks the people just before entering the promise land . . . do you chose life or death? The people move from the desert to the promise land . . . from a hard life to something more comfortable. Moses asks the people . . . how will you live when you enter this land? Will you be like Adam and Eve . . . in paradise . . . and forgets the Lord? They chose death, not the life the Lord desires for them! Hear more what Moses tells the chosen people within this audio and its implication for the Lenten Season.
In the Gospel, the Son of Man must suffer and die. The Lord reveals to a few . . . what will happen. He does not reveal this to the crowd . . .but only to a few of His followers. Jesus makes things known to His followers . . . to those who know Him! The audio explains how this is true for the Apostles and for us! Jesus instructs us . . . to pick up your daily cross and follow Him!
Hear how we all have a choice . . . between life and death. Pick up your daily cross . . . and follow Me! Understand what really the Lord is asking from us! He never just says . . . if you wish to follow me pick up your cross. The Lord outlines a few things first! Understand this is the purpose of the Lenten Season!
What He asks means something. Mediate on this Lenten Message. Meditate on what Christian Discipleship really means!
Jesus Calls On Us to Follow Him . . . this Lenten Season and Always
Follow Me!
The Homily begins by re-examining, briefly, the significance of the ashes (from Ash Wednesday) in our lives.
The Homily goes on and discusses the Levi . . . St. Matthew. During the Homily, the audio makes reference to the painting that you see on this post. We have used it before. However, the painting reveals something about the Lord’ calling of St. Matthew.
Notice the Lord points to the Levi; the Levi is illuminated by the light of Jesus. Jesus says . . . follow me! St. Matthew became a great Apostle. He left everything behind . . . to follow Jesus. In the audio, we are placed into the story. Jesus enters our lives. The Levi . . . as far as we know, did not seek Jesus. Jesus found the Levi . . . and says follow me! Jesus seeks us as well. Listen to how this story relates to all of us!
Listen to How Jesus Calls On Us to Follow Him!
No One Gives Up These Things Without Receiving an Abundance
The Lord tells us that we will receive many gifts . . . and persecutions.
Jesus tells us we will receive an abundance. But we must be careful, that we do not reduce it to merely worldly abundance. Jesus will bless us. But we cannot reduce the Gospel to just earthly success. That is of course possible. But when Jesus talks of the abundance of gifts . . . He is largely referring to non-worldly abundance. Jesus wants us to be happy . . . and enjoy the things He has created here on earth. But we cannot stop there. We need to also look spiritually to what Jesus is really saying. Listen to the audio to hear more.
Listen to this Meditation Media.
Open the Door to Jesus Christ!
Vicar Fr. Wismick is from Haiti and expressed his deepest thankfulness to the pilgrims and regular attendees of the Shrine of Our Lady of the Island for their generosity.
Generosity to not only the people of Haiti, and the Company of Mary in Haiti, but to the Company of Mary worldwide.
We also wish to thank Queen of All Heart’s members for their generosity, both spiritually through their prayers, and financially. During the Mass that was attended recently by the Vicar and the Superior General of the Company of Mary, cards were made available of the scene “Open the Door to Jesus Christ”!
The National Director of Queen of All Hearts explains the significance of Fr. de Montfort actions one night long ago. Listen to the story of Open the Door to Jesus . . . and meditate on it. The audio itself is less than three minutes in length, but a very worthwhile story to gain insights on the man who would become a saint.
The audio mentions a hymn from St. Louis de Montfort. That would be Hymn #14 for those that have The Hymns of St. Louis de Montfort book.
Thank you again for being members of Queen of All Hearts . . . and for your continued spiritual support to the Company of Mary.
How do we acquire virtues in our heart?
In the reading, and in today’s Gospel, we hear what defiles someone.
In the first reading (not within this audio) we hear about the Queen of Sheba coming to Solomon to see if his wisdom is really true. As she meets and spends time with him, she is struck with the wisdom that comes out of him. The Queen of Sheba is amazed with how he explains things to her. The ling impresses her with the riches and other blessing God gives to Solomon. She sees the order within the kingdom, and within his household. The audio explains further about this order that influences the life of Solomon and what impresses the Queen of Sheba.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to the crowd . . . and then his apostles. Jesus explains that all food is clean. Food entering the body cannot defile the body, because it enters the stomach . . . and not the heart. Jesus, and the audio, goes on to recount what defiles man. Jesus explains that we often get lost in the external details. We [the Jewish people] worry about purifying our hands and vessels. We worry because we do not wish to be impure. He doesn’t condemn the practices. Jesus continues and says pay attention what comes out of us . . . what is in our heart.
The audio further explains how we acquire virtues within our heart. Listen to this Meditation Media.
King Solomon . . . Content With His Sin
In the first reading (not included within this audio), as well as the Gospel, there is something challenging for us!
We have heard in the previous day’s readings several passages about King Solomon. We have heard of his great wisdom and faithfulness. Today, we hear something that should give us a pause. Today, out of nowhere, we hear of his great wealth, and then the fall of Solomon. He once held a lofty height, raised by the Lord. Then he fell.
Prior to this reading, we hear of Solomon’s steady increase in wisdom and faith. Nothing suggests anything else. Then today happens. Today’s audio goes into the details of his fall. Similar to his father David, who also fell, Solomon also falls. Solomon started his reign with greater wisdom. However, David had something perhaps Solomon did not. David had a jealously for the honor of God. David had a great faithfulness.
So, what is the lesson? David committed murder and more. Solomon’s evil deeds are explained in the audio. Isn’t David’s actions worse? The audio then describes what happens when both are confronted with their sins. That is the difference and that is the lesson for us all.
David, when confronted, acknowledges the sin, repents for his sins, then cries out to the Lord for forgiveness. He then submits to the punishment that will come to him. Hear more about how David and Solomon should influence our lives.
Our Lady Comes to a Wounded World . . . Our Lady of Lourdes
Today, the Shrine was given a gift from heaven, flowers for Our Lady.
Gifts to Our Lady are normally more than a simple gift. A single act of kindness directed to Our Lady, often touches other people as well. Whatever is given to Our Lady normally is more than the givers’ intention. Fr. de Montfort speaks of this when we do things for Our Lady.
Interestingly, someone once asked Fr. de Montfort, why don’t you do something for God rather than Our Lady? His response? If I do something for God, He gets a very little thing. This is not a bad thing. In fact, it is a good thing. But the question is not whether it is good or bad, but rather can I give something to God that is even better?
That is the power of doing something . . . for Our Lady. When I perform an act of kindness for Our Lady . . . she receives it (however imperfect the kindness is) with a grateful heart. When we honor her, she understands we are honoring all things God has done in her . . . and through her. We honor her, including the crown God gave to her. . . the Word made flesh.
As she receives our gift of kindness . . . and the honor God has given her, she raises her head and praises God. What does God get from our kindness to Our Lady? God gets the thanksgiving and praises of Our Lady! That is much bigger . . . and much better than the little gift we give. Hear more about this gift to Our Lady on this day.
Today is the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. We honor Our Lady’s visit to St. Bernadette. But she does more than visit her. She comes to a wounded world and brings a touch of grace. Hear the importance of this feast day. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Jesus tells the Apostles (and Us) to . . .
In the first reading, David leaves instructions (reading not captured in this audio).
Take courage and be a man . . . David says to his son. David continues . . . and give yourself to walking in the way of the Lord. What a wonderful description of what it means for a woman or a man to have courage. Courage is not to look upon your enemy; it is not to be aggressive. However, it means be firm in the way of what is right; be firm in the way of the Lord. Do not be ashamed by that. Don’t let anything stop you in being what you should be.
This is how David insists his rule will be secure. It isn’t because his son is trained in politics. It is because he is firm in the way of the Lord.
This is not the statement on how a kingship rests upon. Rather, it is how his house rests upon. David speaks to his son . . . not just to someone who will be taking care of the kingship. He will be taking care of the household. The House of David, rests with his son.
Walking in the way of goodness is not something we talk about much in today’s world. While many desire it, few persevere in the way of goodness. When we go to confession and repeat the prayer . . .we commit to goodness. We often, however, do not place that commitment into our heart and we stray from goodness. We often do not take the statement from David to heart. Be firm in your commitment to change; be firm in your commitment to goodness.
. . . Trust In the Way of the Lord In the Gospel, Jesus sends out the Apostles. He gives them authority over evil and illness. But He instructs them to not take anything with them. Why? The Lord implies that we need things and stuff . . . but, what he says is to trust in the Lord. He will help you and reward you with what you need and provide you with grace. Hear more in this audio. Hear more what the Lord desire for us . . . and from us!
Listen to this Meditation Media and have courage . . . trust in the Lord.
The Presentation of the Lord . . . What Does the Church Ask From Us Today?
Today is a very rich celebration.
Today the feast day is called The Presentation of the Lord in the Temple. In an earlier age, it was referred to as The Purification of the Holy Virgin Mary. This Mystery contains presentation and purification. We celebrate the purification by one who is spotless and without stain. We also celebrate the presentation of the Lord. The feast celebrates the presentation of the very Lord of the Temple. This feast is a very rich celebration.
The Gospel introduces us to an old man who has lived a great number of years. He has a vision of the newly born Christ-child, as well as the vision of salvation. What joy was granted to this tired elderly man. The temple, which contains the presence of God, is suddenly filled with the presence of God like it has never before on this day. This is a rich celebration.
There are many days in the liturgical year when the focus is on the spiritual or moral message of scripture. Today is not one of these days. Today, the Church asks us to open our eyes and look at Jesus. To look at Jesus and know Him, as we have not done before today. See Him . . . as the light of revelation and the glory of people. What does that mean? See Him as the light and glory? What actually does the Church as from us?
Listen to this Meditation Media.
King David And His Rest In The Lord . . .
In the first reading (not included within this audio), David is portrayed as a heroic and a faithful servant and king.
In the reading today, events unfold that we do not think . . . or have heard evidence that the reverse will happen. Yet it does happen!
It is an example that when people attribute other living souls as holy and faithful, must be done so with great care. Up to this point, when we look at David, we look at a saint. Then today’s scripture happens. This is not a small movement from grace. We are talking about adultery and murder. It is both a political and a moral crime at the same time. This is a shocking moment. A remarkable fall from grace.
. . . Is Broken Scripture does not disclose the outrage of these events; rather, it unfolds the details. In today’s world, if a political leader did such a thing, the media would cry foul with many emotions attached to these events. In this case, David was not battling a foreign enemy. He was not at war. David was king; he was friends with God; he had the love of his people. David was at rest.
The lesson: one must be careful in thinking one is holy. One must work to remain faithful, even when at rest. One of the important ways Our Lord talks about the kingdom of God and salvation, is in terms of rest. Our Lord speaks often about entering into His rest. We will have rest from our enemies; we will have rest from our labor.
But scripture tells of us there are different types of rest. There is a right kind of rest and a wrong type of rest. Rest in the Lord and resting in the blessings of what the Lord gives us are the two types. David was resting in the blessings. It is not wrong to receive blessings. Hear the audio describe this distinction in detail.
David tries to find his own way out of these events. It is a pattern that has occurred throughout human history. Our own way often makes the original events even worse. Hear more about trying to find our own way . . . without the Lord. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Hear What Infinite Love Has for You . . .
The Word of God can be our friend . . . and often times, our enemy.
A prophet can offer words that are consoling. He can also tear down and begin to build again. The tear down is not destructive. But the tearing down can be our false opinion of ourselves that we have in our heart. Jeramiah does not tell the people what the people want to hear. While the words may be difficult, they are the Lord’s words.
Jeramiah had a difficult vocation. People did not accept all the words he spoke. In a way, he was “christ-like”.
In the Gospel reading, we hear the Lord speaking in the temple. All were impressed . . . but he is Joseph’s son. Where does He get these words? Jesus is provocative. Jesus says no, I am not going to work signs in His hometown. He speaks to people who think they are entitled. Listen to this homily that talks about the mercy of God.
. . . If You Do Not Take Jesus for Granted We are not entitled to the mercy of God. Many take His mercy for granted. Yet, we are not entitled to it. Jesus points this out. Jesus says to the towns people, you think you are entitled because you have a certain relationship with Me. You think you are entitled to a miracle or a certain treatment.
Rather, this is about what Jesus’ love can do for you when you stop taking Jesus for granted. Jesus challenges the towns people. Jesus says I am not going to give you what you want (miracles and signs). Their response: anger. The angered heart ultimately does not receive the gifts . . . or mercy Jesus wishes to give.
The reading for the day also includes St. Paul’s description of love (not included in the audio). Love is patient . . . Love is kind . . . If we listen to this passage, St. Paul tells us what we need to be in our hearts. He tells us about Jesus.
Hear what Infinite Love has for you . . . if you do not take Jesus for granted. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Why Did God Make You?
Who made you?
Of course, the answer is God. The next question is Why did God Make You? Where did I come from? I am not the origin of my life. The earth, this world, is not the total origin of my life. Life comes from someone else. God made me and you!
He made you . . . not on a whim. You were made . . . for a reason. There is a point and direction and reason for my life . . . and your life! You were made . . . for a reason by God. What . . . is that reason? Why were you made?
The answer to this why question is also the answer to the purpose or goal of your life. And what is that reason? You were made to know Him, to love Him and to serve Him in this life; so that you may be happy with Him, in the next life! God made you . . . for Him and to share the eternity of His own joy and happiness.
If that is the case, what is the way to grow into this everlasting happiness? Hear more in the audio.
The answer to the questions is very simple. They are thought provoking. Meditate on the questions. Listen more in this Meditation Media.
Note: The homily occurs on the birthday of Fr. de Montfort. The audio set also covers the three birthday each of celebrates within our lives.
David and Goliath . . . and Marian Devotion!
In chapter three of Mark’s Gospel, the Israelites are plotting to kill Jesus.
This is remarkable, because it is early within Jesus’ public ministry. In the first reading (not within the audio) we hear that David is anointed king . . . but is not king yet. He serves the current king, Saul. Like Jesus, the anointed one serves others and is content to work within the system God has in place.
David respects the authority the king on the throne currently has; though David will assume the throne someday, it will not be today. His heart respects what the Lord has in place.
When faced with a large enemy army, and a giant warrior, the Israelites are terrified. They know, that alone, they are no match for fighting the army . . . or, the giant. David approaches the challenge differently. He does not approach out of fear or inadequacy. He approaches the enemy with a confidence that God is with him. In is not blind enthusiasm. Nor is it someone who just discovered the Lord today and plans to do battle. Either action would be reckless and irresponsible.
David lived the life of God standing by him. He experienced trust in God. David experienced prior danger (attacked by a Lion) and calling out to the Lord for protection and receiving it from Him. David has “done this before”, in talking with Saul.
This is where the passage begins its Marian tone. Hear about David’s ability to go into battle on more than one occasion, relying on the Lord. Hear about what relying on the Lord really means. Listen to this Meditation Media.
During the Homily, an explanation as to why this is also a Marian passage is reviewed. Listen, and understand how does David and Goliath root us in Marian Devotion!
Blessing Real Love
In the first reading (not included in the audio), Saul has resentment toward David.
In the Mass’ audience, a couple celebrates a milestone anniversary. The anniversary and the reading are connected. David, as we heard the day prior, slew the giant. Yet David, found his life in greater risk by the people he helped than from the warrior and army he faced.
It is a sobering lesson for us! Sometimes there is danger in a place where we should be the safest. What actually is the danger? Saul cannot actually rejoice in the goodness of his servant. The king was not left out of the celebration. However, Saul cannot rejoice in the victory of David. He cannot rejoice in the victory of one who saved him. Why? Because David receives more praise than Saul . . . and therefore, Saul cannot rejoice. Again, Saul cannot rejoice in the fact that others are celebrating him . . . the king. He cannot rejoice, because another is celebrated more. His heart grows cold. He is selfish and jealous.
Real love permits one to rejoice in the goodness that one has, and the goodness we have together. However, Real love bathes in happiness because of the goodness the other has in their life. Saul’s heart is too small and harden to be capable of this truth. He settles into a temptation to perform a sin . . . to consider murder.
Hear more about what real love is in holding a family together. Listen to this Meditation and celebrate a blessing.
Feast of St. Agnes – One of the Greatest in Faith and Holy Martyrs!
Feast of St. Agnes – The Patron Saint of the Diocese of Rockville Center, Long Island, NY.
The Gospel reading today is about a great treasure found in a field. It is also the Feast of St. Agnes, also a great treasure.
The Gospel talks about a great treasure that is hidden and that one must dig up. The treasure of the Gospel and the treasure of the Kingdom of God is why we must work the field. One of the ways we plow this field, where the treasure lays and is hidden, is by considering and contemplating the great things He has done in and through our patron saints. This Gospel also tells us about St. Agnes herself.
This may be a surprise, or even confusing to the reader of the Gospel; because it does not tell us directly about martyrdom. Often times when Agnes is depicted, she is depicted as an adult. Spiritually, that is true. Historically, however, that is not true. See how Agnes surpasses many in faith by listening to her story. Understand how we all, regardless of what Diocese you live in, can spiritually be impacted by understanding why Agnes is so important.
Listen to this Meditation Media for the week.
This is the Day the Church Gathers for Prayer and Penance
Yesterday many made their presence known in Washington, DC.
This is good and important! However, on this day the Church gathers without signs and without cameras. It gathers in prayer and penance. The Church gathers, not to give witness, like the people in DC. It gathers as the entire body in Christ for prayer. A specific kind of prayer.
Understand how prayer on this day as a Church and as a country is so powerful. Hear more about what the Church does today. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
This is the Day the Church Gathers for Prayer and Penance
Yesterday many made their presence known in Washington, DC.
This is good and important! However, on this day the Church gathers without signs and without cameras. It gathers in prayer and penance. The Church gathers, not to give witness, like the people in DC. It gathers as the entire body in Christ for prayer. A specific kind of prayer.
Understand how prayer on this day as a Church and as a country is so powerful. Hear more about what the Church does today. Hear more within this Meditation Media.
Jesus Speaks to Us During the Proclamation
When the Gospel is proclaimed, who is speaking?
One might answer, the Priest (or Holy Deacon). But that would be only partially true. When the Gospel is proclaimed, we hear the Priest; but it is actually Jesus speaking through the Priest to us! . . . to you!
Proclamation of Scripture during Mass is not an exercise in giving us information; it is not an exercise in answering our questions; it is also not a time filler immediately prior to receiving Holy Communion. We Christians know this, but we also need to be reminded. It is easy to forget that the proclamation of Scripture is aimed at our heart! The Gospel words are different when we recognize this truth! The Lord is present. We stand for the proclamation specifically, because He is present. For no other reason, but He is present! The Lord is not just recounting an event from 2000 years ago! He has a specific intention. He . . . is speaking to us!
The Gospel takes on a completely different dimension when we recognize this truth! Hear more about this topic and the day’s message from Jesus within the Homily! Meditate on this Media this week and when you attend Mass! Listen to more within this audio.
At the end of the Homily, the Shrine has a special blessing for those who (speak) read sacred scripture within the Mass at the Shrine. Hear more at the end of this Meditation Media.
The Cycle Selection of the Gospels During Weekday Mass
Before focusing on the Gospel reading, the Homily introduces us to ordinary time.
The liturgical year during the week is on a two-year cycle. On Sunday’s, there is a three-year cycle. The weekday year is divided into three periods: each corresponding to a Gospel. The first period of the year is the Gospel of St. Mark. If it’s not a feast day, when we gather in the early part of the year during the week, we hear from the Gospel of St. Mark sequentially, until we get to the section just before the Passion.
Then, the Church switches Gospels, and we turn to St. Matthew. After the Lord’s Baptism to just before His Passion, we hear from St. Matthew. When this is finished, the Church turns to St. Luke. Throughout ordinary times, the Church cycles back to various times in Jesus’ life, from the perspective of these three Gospel writers.
The first readings also have its cycle. This year, in January, the Church reads from the Book of Samuel. When this concludes, the Church picks a different book for the first reading. Hear more about these cycles for the first readings and the weekday Gospels within the first few minutes of the Homily. Why does the Church do this? To move us through as much of the biblical witness as possible over the course of a year. Again, hear why this is important within the Homily.
Follow Me!
After a brief discussion about the Book of Samuel, the Homily focuses on the Gospel. In this story, the Lord selects Matthew (the tax collector) and tells him to Follow (Follow Jesus). The Lord didn’t ask Levi to consider the request. Indeed, Jesus does not ask him. Jesus gives Levi a command. Follow Me! Christ asserts a regal and divine authority within this command. At this command, Matthew leaves aside his former way of life.
Matthew was a sinner. However, Jesus’ words cut through things of this world that Matthew faces. It cuts through the ambition and the greed. It penetrated Matthew’s heart. Jesus doesn’t go to the priests. He goes and calls a sinner to Follow Me! Why? Hear more about the words of this Gospel and how these words penetrate our hearts. Hear more about our own call! Listen more to this Meditation Media.
The Three Miracles . . .
This Gospel story, from St. John, is an example that could be a danger to us spiritually.
Why? Because often, we think we know the Gospel story, and we causally glance over it. We do not spend the time to let the Holy Spirit penetrate us and help us Spiritually. Hear more in the Homily.
The Wedding of Cana has many interesting verses, especially the first and the last verse within this Gospel. St. John begins the story with these words. There was a wedding at Cana in Galilee, and the Mother of Jesus was there . . . This reading is a story of a wedding in Cana. But before that, it is a story about something that happens when the Mother of Jesus is present. It is scripture that instructs us about when Our Lady is present. It tells us of her role and what happens when she is present. And, it is important to focus on this fact; it might be missed because of our general familiarity of the Gospel story. Listen to more within the Homily.
. . . at the Wedding of Cana The end of the passage is also curious. Jesus worked this as the beginning of His signs . . . and His disciples began to believe in Him. It is the beginning of His public ministry. This Gospel is more than the miracle of water transformed into wine. Everything that happens is also at the service of the Lord revealing His Glory, so that His disciples begin to believe in Him. Hear more within the Homily.
There actually are three miracles that take place in this Gospel reading. We are familiar with one, the transformation of water into wine. Hear more about all three miracles. Listen to this Homily and Meditate on it. For those that practice Montfort Spirituality, you’ll want to meditate on this Homily for your own spiritual journey.
The Baptism of the Lord
On this day the world has already set aside Christmas.
Though in the Church, it is the last day of the Christmas Season! It is also the day the church celebrates the Baptism of the Lord. This season began with celebrating the Nativity. Later we celebrated the appearance of the star in the sky and the Magi. Today we gaze on Our Lord as the adult Jesus on the day of His Baptism.
During the Christmas Season, we celebrate Our Lord and adore Him. Hear how this celebration fits into the Christmas Season. How does the Lord’s Baptism fit into this season? Hear more within the Homily!
On this day, the world is introduced for the first time to the Blessed Trinity. Up until this time, only Our Lady knew of the Blessed Trinity. However, on this day, the world hears the Father and sees the Holy Spirit. Listen to this Meditation Media on the impact of the Blessed Trinity within this Mystery.
We Bow to the Mystery of the Word Becoming Flesh
The Gospel that was read today was the beginning of John’s Gospel.
Read it when you get a chance, and let the words penetrate you. In an earlier age in the Church’s history, Mass was not over, until these passages are read at the end of Mass. Every day, during Mass pray includes these passages. It was called, The Last Gospel. These passages were inserted into the Liturgy. It says something of its importance! So again, you are encouraged to read it when you can in this new year. During this Christmas Season, read more about the great Mystery of Our Lord. The Mystery of Our Lord, The Word becoming Flesh. Hear more in the Homily of the greatness of this passage in the beginning of John’s Gospel.
The Mystery Recalls the Great Humility of Our Lord
In the Creed, the Church asks all who recite this prayer, to bow when praying / saying “by the Holy Spirit, He was Incarnate in the Virgin Mary and became man . . . “. Bowing of the body recalls the great humility of the Lord emptying Himself and taking up our flesh. On Christmas Day, the Church asks us to kneel. Why? The Church asks us to get on our knees in adoration of this great mystery.
The Church wishes to acknowledge the importance of this mystery becoming flesh. It is so important for us; the Church asks us to show adoration for it. Why is it so important? Because when we make this adoration gesture, it is a sign of what is / or should be happening within our spirit and within our heart.
We bow to the Mystery of the Word becoming Flesh. He who is God, reduces Himself in this mysterious way to be like us! Why is it a mystery? Becoming like us . . . is not a step up for God. Hear more about Why Our Lord becomes flesh. Hear why He humbles Himself, and how this should impact on own spirituality.
Advancing Our Own Spirituality
The Apostle John, within his first letter, address three categories of people; children, young men, and fathers.
The Apostle has something unique to say to each of these three groups. In doing so, John speaks to the entire breadth of Christian Communities. He speaks to each group, addressing each at their level of spirituality.
Growth in Christian life is the growth in maturity in one’s spiritual life . . . a growth in spiritual adulthood. Everyone, every Christian, starts out spiritually as a little child. Many of us, unfortunately, do not progress spiritually beyond the level of childhood. Regrettable, but true for most Christians.
He also speaks to the young men . . . those who advance out of childhood, to the cusp of adulthood. John speaks to each group, so that individuals will not stay there . . . but move forward in their spiritual life.
John writes to the little children, because they have been forgiven of their sins. He begins with this group, because this group is at the starting point of spiritual life. In the forgiveness of the children’s sins, the group begins to also know the Father. Spiritual life’s fundamental goal, for all Christians, is to fully know the Lord. Listen to more about what John says about this spiritual group.
Spirituality Enables Us to Bring “My Will” into Conformity with “God’s Will” The Apostle also addresses the Christian Fathers; the group that has reached adulthood and has reached a mature level of spirituality. They look after the well-being of the community. This group has come to know Him, the fullness of the Lord. How does one get there? Hear more about what Saint John says about this group.
The third group the Apostle speaks about is the Young Men, or Young Woman. This is the intermediate group. This group has overcome the world. What does that mean? This group has not only experienced the forgiveness of the Lord, but they have also grown beyond those sins. Listen to what St. John says about this group!
Three spiritual groups. What does the saint say to us? Why and how can we grow spiritually? Spiritual maturity involves knowing more fully the Lord. Spirituality’s goal is not just to know the Lord, but also to bring “my will” into conformity with “God’s will”. This just does not happen by saying a prayer . . . or a series of prayers.
Hear the Beloved Apostle message to us today!
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
The Lord came into this world dependent on one of His Creators.
Hear about what is celebrated on this Solemnity and how we spirituality must do what Our Lord did and continues to do . . . love and depend upon His Mother. He who is the Creator of all lays aside His Glory to save us all and makes Himself dependent upon Our Lady. He is pleased to enter the world and redeem us in this manner. He humbles Himself in doing so.
Listen to this very brief Homily (14 minutes) and listen to how this Feast Day should impact our spiritual life.
Does the Holy Family Go to Bethlehem Because of a Decree by the Leaders?
When we look at a Nativity Creche, there are often materials that are normally discardable items included in the scene.
Rocks, hay, tree limbs. All things that go unnoticed, but placed in a creche, during the Christmas Season, they are not only beautiful, but looked upon in a different light.
The essence of the Nativity set tells us something. It doesn’t just tell us a story of various people showing up on the scene. No. It is much more. It tells us of a reality of a wounded world into which Christ came. Listen to what the world sees in the beautiful scene.
Did the Holy Family go to Bethlehem because of an earthly ruler? Yes, the Romans barked their orders, but that is not why they go. The Holy Family goes, because that is where the Lord is pleased to be born. Hear more why this is so! Hear more about what happens at the stable!
Listen to the Christmas Season Meditation Media.
How Does Jesus View the Family?
On the Feast of the Holy Family, the Homily focuses on the family.
The Church sets this day aside to focus on all our families. But how does Jesus view our families?
Hear how Jesus see your family. Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Annunciation and Saint Joseph
O Come, O Come Emanuel.
In today’s Gospel we hear the reason why we sing this song during Advent. While this hymn is very known . . . it is also very unknown. We tend to sing a verse or two or so, but not the full set of verses. This hymn is the hymn for Advent. It is the hymn especially for the last week of Advent. Each day, during Mass, one of the verses from this hymn is recited. It is also recited by priests during their evening prayers this week. The origin of this hymn is actual from the preparation of the last week in Advent leading up to Christmas and the celebration of the Nativity.
Each day, who we call Emanuel, God Is With Us, according to the mysterious prophesies of the Old Testament. It is worth getting a copy of the full set of this hymn and meditate on the verse for the day; calling out to the Lord to understand the verse as intended by Heaven. This meditation helps in the understanding of who it is that we are expecting to come. Hear more about this ancient imagery, and how it impacts our preparation!
Change In Focus Within The Mass
Over the last seven days of Advent, the readings change. We change our focus from the future day the Lord will come again, to something more immediate. The liturgy focuses on the day that already came, the Nativity Scene. The focus is now on the day the Lord was born for us and let the light shine on His face for the world to see. We hear about how the birth of Jesus comes about . . . during these last seven days.
On this day, we hear about Joseph. Yesterday’s Gospel’s focus was on the list of genealogy for Jesus; we hear each generation’s name down to Joseph. He is not known as the father of Jesus in the genealogy Gospel. He is known as the husband of Mary. This is the original title of Joseph. Joseph, Husband of Mary. In the Church’s devotion to Joseph, this is the title that is privileged above all others. Why? Because it the title the Holy Spirit gives him, as He speaks of Jesus coming into the world. Listen to more about this title.
Today’s Gospel Focus Is Actually That Jesus Is Pleased To Be Born Into This World
In today’s Gospel, the focus is on Joseph’s relationship with Mary, as Jesus comes into the world. While it may seem that it is simply a story of the relationship of Joseph and Mary, it is more than that! Scripture actually communicates the fact that Jesus is pleased to be born into this world. This is the amazing focus of today’s Gospel. With this in mind, listen / re-read the Gospel again with the engagement and meditation focus.
Jesus enters the world in a specific way. Hear about Heaven’s Annunciation to Joseph. Listen to this Homily. Jesus is pleased to come into the world. Listen to this audio and hear more about the necessity of Mary and Joseph. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Immaculate Conception: Before Our Lady Was Born, She Opposed Satin
This feast day is on the Church’s calendar to help us celebrate Mary, which helps us love Our Lady even more.
We celebrate the sinless virgin on the feast day of her immaculate conception. Those devoted to Mary are delighted and happy for something that was done for Our Lady. We rejoice in her glory; rejoice in her privilege; rejoice in her goodness because we are happy for her. That, in part, why we celebrate her today. We do so because of our devotion to Mary; we love her. Devotion to Mary has a deep interior practice. Hear more in the conference about this joy!
Fr. de Montfort recommends we contemplate Mary’s goodness in order to deepen our love for her. Contemplate her titles the Church has given her (listen to the next audio which includes praying these titles) over the centuries.
Starting at approximately the 18 minute mark, the Gospel Before There Were Gospels (Genesis 3:15) is reviewed. Sin causes the human heart to hide from God. The audio relates this truth to the fall of the human race by Adam and Eve’s actions. Haman hearts are impacted. In this audio, God also tells the serpent that He will put enmity between the serpent and THE WOMAN. What woman? Eve? No! Eve already has sin, and her heart has been impacted by the serpent.
What WOMAN then? This is the foretelling of the coming of Our Lady. In Genesis we hear the role of THE WOMAN. Hear how THE WOMAN – hear how Our Lady – opposes Satin in this conference audio. She wasn’t even born yet, when she is announced how through THE WOMAN serpent will be crushed.
Listen to this conference’s audio first audio set.
Prayerful Rejoicing In Our Lady
This second audio set leads us to a prayerful rejoicing and consideration of Our Lady in her greatness, in her glory and her goodness. The audio leads us in prayer of Our Lady’s Litany. Take note in the Litany. The beginning and closure of the Litany is speaking to God. Everything we pray to Mary, is contained between what we say to God! Contemplate this as you follow along with the community as we pray Our Lady’s Litany.
Feast of The Immaculate Conception: Celebrating the Sinless Purity of Mary
How great it is to celebrate this feast day during the season of Advent.
As we decorate our homes and churches, we prepare a place for the Lord’s Coming. In this feast day, God Himself is also preparing a place for Our Lord’s Coming. As beautiful as we try to make our homes in laying out a manager, if we are honest, a stable is not very clean.
The Lord comes to us and rests in a stable. To be able to do this, He rests someplace else first. St. Louis de Montfort correctly points out, that as filthy as a stable may be, our hearts tend to be worse. Think about that. The King is willing to come to us first, via a stable. But we need to ask ourselves, how well prepared are our hearts to also receive the King. Have I prepared and cleaned my heart?
When we speak of the Holy Virgin, we speak of her as both a person and a place. She is the Mother of Jesus, and the dwelling place of Our Lord. She is a disciple, as well as His throne room. Note what that also means for us! We are not only His followers (His disciples), but He also (desires to) abide within us! We are temples of the Holy Spirit. So, the way we speak of / about Our Lady, also points to a way we need to think about ourselves!
Imagine the goodness within Our Lady. Imagine her Sinless Purity! The Homily discusses the sinless heart of Our Lady.
The only reason we have the Immaculate Conception is because Jesus is coming to save you and me! Wow! What a statement! The gift of the Immaculate Conception is not a private gift. Hear more on this within the audio.
Listen to this Homily. Listen to the significance of this Feast Day and how it gives us a way to think about ourselves. Hear more within this Meditation media.
Those That Do The Will Of God . . .
The Gospel today is the parable of the two different houses built on different grounds, with different destinies.
We hear this parable when we also hear from the Prophet Isaiah about “That Day” (reading not included in this audio). The Homily reviews certain points, described by Isaiah, of the city that God built.
The Homily connects what Isaiah says will happen “On That Day”, with the words of Jesus in today’s Gospel about the houses. The Homily further explains what this parable means to our salvation – the salvation of man.
Listen to this Meditation Media for the Week and contemplate its meaning during this Advent Season.
. . . On That Day . . .
During the readings of the first week of Advent we hear Isaiah say “ . . . On That Day . . . “.
But what is he telling the people of his age, hundreds of years before the birth of Christ? “On this day”. We also hear, as Catholics with the knowledge of the birth of Christ, the phrase “On This Day”. What does this tell us?
In the Gospel reading the Lord looks upon the wounded and heals them. He sends out His disciples to heal the people. On that day, people saw the face of the Lord. As we prepare our nativity scene, with its empty cresh, what a marvelous way to contemplate the Lord as we gaze and wait to look upon His face.
Listen to this Homily and its various Meditation themes during this season of Advent.
What Glory Awaits Us Upon Our Resurrection?
In today’s age, we often do not recognize that the idea of resurrection was not obvious to the human race.
It was not obvious, including by the people of God. The Jewish Sadducees, people who took care of the Temple in the time of Jesus, did not have a belief of resurrection of the dead.
This is the issue that is raised in the Gospel reading. The Sadducees pose a question about the resurrection. Jesus does not play the game. We assume that in the resurrection, everything is the same. . . only better. Note what the Lord says! Do not make that mistake. Don’t assume that every aspect of life as we know it remains the same within the Glory of the Kingdom.
Jesus tells us . . . it will still be you. However, the glory that waits for us is not identical to things here. It is important to realize this truth. We tend to reduce things to the familiar. God is beyond all of that. The life, and the greatness and the happiness that the Lord holds out for us . . . is beyond anything we can conceive and understand.
Listen to this very important Homily on the Glory that awaits the faith-full. Hear more in this Meditation Media.
Honoring in Our Hearts the Goodness and Greatness of the Lord
In today’s Gospel, Jesus drives out those conducting business in the Temple.
My Father’s house is a house of prayer, says the Lord. Today’s Homily, asks what is going on within our own temple, our hearts?
The original Temple in Jerusalem was destroyed and razed to the ground by the Babylonians. The audio defines what happened to the second and third Temple in Jerusalem. In each case, there is a question concerning the dedication and purification of the temples. In each case, as it is today, the focus is on servicing and worshipping the Lord in the right way.
Worldly affairs do not impress the Lord. People conducting business in and near the temple, does not impress the Lord. The original temple was built to honor the goodness and greatness of the Lord. When Jesus enters the temple in the Gospel, he does not see people acting that way. He sees people caring about worldly affairs. Jesus drives out the men doing business in the temple.
Hear more about what it meant to gather around an altar and worship the Lord. Understand the implications for our own heart.
Listen to the Meditation Media.
Engaging the Lordship of Jesus
In the Homily, it sites a scientific study that says that we are moved when we hear a story read aloud.
Not when we read privately. But when we hear a reading, read aloud with others in our presence, our hearts become impacted.
In the Gospel today, Our Lord speaks of the day in the future, in which He will return again. On that day, the Lord will place all things in order intended by God. The Lord, who knows our hearts, gives us some very important instructions within this Gospel.
When the day comes, these will be the signs. The audio goes on and discusses this in detail. When the day comes, you will not miss it or confuse it with any other! The implication is for us not to confuse every storm or conflict between nations as the sign of His coming! You will know it when the day arrives! When it comes, it will impact everyone. Everyone will recognize it at once!
Why is this important? The Christian heart is fascinated with predicting the end. When we fall into this trap, we lose the beauty of the present moment by worrying about tomorrow. Jesus does not want us to be caught up in this fascination. He wants us to get ready for His Coming!
How does Jesus wants us to get ready? It is by asking about the real condition of my heart! When He returns, will He find us looking (and waiting) for Him? Or will we be busy about other things?
Hear more about Engaging the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Listen to preparing our hearts for His coming! Listen to this Meditation Media.
The Martyrs and Their Mother: I Am Not The One Who Gave You Life
What does it mean to be a king?
In the book of Maccabees, the king is seeking to impose new ways across the kingdom. This brings him into conflict with the Israelites. The Israelites cling to the customs, traditions and the way of life of their ancestors.
The text from 2 Maccabees is important with regard to devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The text is frequently used in speaking about Our Lady’s Sorrows. In the text, a mother has her seven sons murdered by the king. The mother is wounded each time she loses a son. It is like seven swords pierce her heart as well. This text is long recognized as the pain of Our Lady as she stood at the foot of The Cross.
In the story, misguided earthly authority kill the sons. Jesus is killed by misguided earthly authority as His mother looks on.
The mother in the story is actually remarkable. Not because she lost seven sons at once. Many mothers experience tragedies. The mother is remarkable for the way she engages the loss. She actually prefers to lose them physically, then to lose them morally and spiritually. It flies in the expectations of the king.
The mother also says she is not the source of her sons life. She carried them in her womb, but she is not the source. The One who gave you life, will restore it and return you to me. The mother, who has remarkable faith, is willing to bear this moment of pain and sorrow for the sake of the joy that awaits her.
Listen and hear more about this reading and the Gospel reading within this Meditation for the Week media. Listen to how this is a special text for those that have a devotion to Our Lady!
Behold, The Kingdom of God is Among You
Be careful how one reads this Gospel.
The Kingdom we long for, and yet we do not see. Note what Jesus says. If someone says the Kingdom of God is here . . . or there, Jesus says do not run after that. Jesus also says His disciples long to see the Glory of God. Someone will come and say He is here . . . or there. Do not chase after that, says the Lord.
Jesus says when He does come, people will not miss seeing that it is Him. Hear more about the coming of the Lord.
This day the church also celebrates St. Martin of Tours. Hear more about this saint that had his eyes affixed on the Kingdom.
Listen to this Meditation Media piece.
Pope St. Leo the Great
In celebrating this feast day, one of the things we recognize and celebrate is the way the Lord guides and governs His people.
The Book of Wisdom speaks to those who have been given authority in this world. The author of this book points out that it is important for those that have been given authority to not turn their back on how the Lord wants us all to live.
The Lord is not impressed, in any form, of any Earthly greatness! There is no status on this earth that gets the Lord’s attention!
This is why Pope St. Leo is so important. He was a truly faith-full and heroic pastor. One who founded his life on the Wisdom of the Lord and refused to compromise on that Wisdom.
There are many remarkable stories about Pope St. Leo. The Homily discusses one of these stories and it would be good for all to hear it.
The Gospel today focuses on the ten who have a disease. Jesus cures all with the disease. One returns and thanks the Lord. The healing occurred when they obeyed the Lord. Hear about the gratitude of this one soul, and how it might influence our own devotion to the Lord.
Hear more in this Meditation for the Week Media.
Feast of the Dedication of the Basilica of Saint John Lateran in Rome
Thisfeast day is often misunderstood.
Why are we celebrating a building? Why? Because buildings and space manner! Today we celebrate an event, a dedication, that goes back nearly 1700 years. Amazingly, 1700 years later, the worship of God still takes place at that location. Think about it! The Christian faith-full have received communion on this location for all these years.
This building manners greatly! When it was built and dedicated, it was the location of the great Diocese of Rome, and remains so today! Hear why this church is and remains an important church.
The homily also discusses the place we must carve out for our spiritual prayer life. Listen to this Meditation Media.
Ours is an Apostolic Faith
From the early days of the Church, faith filled pilgrim sites were located where the martyrs spilled their blood.
When Christianity became a legal religion in Rome, during the days of Constantine, he made a pilgrimage to Vatican Hill. He went to the place of the grave of St. Peter, and wept. Later, he gave the order to build a Church, which we now know as St. Peters. A Church dedicated to the prince of Apostles. The current St. Peters is not the same structure, but a Church has been on the current location of St. Peters since the fourth century.
The following year, a Church was built where the Apostle Paul was be-headed. But before both of these Churches were built, the faithful would find their way to these two locations to pray. They prayed for the intercession of these great saints to intercede and continue to guide the Church.
It is important to take a moment today to recognize that blood was spilled in witness to the Gospel. Recognizing that the Apostles, especially these two Apostles, drank from the chalice of the Lord in witness to the Gospel. Ours is an Apostolic Faith.
During the homily, the most recent paper from the US Bishops on receiving the Eucharist is briefly discussed.
Listen to this Homily as to why this statement about faith is important to our Spiritual well-being. Hear more about this Meditation Media piece.
All Saints Day and Our Call to Holiness
The Gospel is the famous Sermon on the Mount.
It doesn’t begin with the Beatitudes. When Jesus saw the crowd, Jesus went up the mountain. He saw and moved away, and then sat down. His disciples then came to Him. He waited for those who would follow Him, and then he taught them!
It may be subtle in this passage. But it is an aspect of the Lord in which we reflect upon too little. The Lord teaches us something. The crowd sees the Lord and the Lord sees the crowd. He then moves and awaits those who will follow Him, before departing His message! The teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is a teaching for those that moved with and to the Lord. Again, a lesson for us even today! Hear more in the audio.
Feast of All Saints
The Feast of All Saints is celebrated today. It is an overwhelming number. In the first reading (not in this audio), John describes what he sees in heaven. Too many to count, he is overwhelmed. When they praise the Lord together, it sounds like thunder, there are so many. So what does he see? He sees these great numbers of souls in the glory of heaven; in the brightness of heaven.
We Are All Called To Holiness
The Homily goes further into Holiness. Holiness is what we are asked to be here on earth. John sees the holy souls in heaven in their glory. How can there be so many? Many people think holiness is not for them! We are all called to be holy, says St. Louis de Montfort. Many Catholics do not strive to be so holy, because they believe it is unattainable. If it is so rare, why does John see an overwhelming number. . . too numerous to count.
Hear more on our call to holiness, and the Feast of All Saints.
Commemoration of the Faithfully Departed (All Souls Day)
Death is a fact of life. Life has a limit and comes to an end.
However, it is that fact that actually gives very real meaning to our life. Strange statement? Human life, was created by God! But human life was created destined for glory! Destined for a goodness. Destined for a happiness that will not end!
Human kind was originally created for that destiny (goodness, happiness and glory). But, we on earth do not experience this; in fact, in our sin fallen world, we do not have unending happiness. Rather, we experience illness, hardship, fear, uncertainty, and struggle.
Our mortal life has a limit. Our life has a limit. But that also means pain has a limit; illness has a limit; hardship has a limit. All of these things, have a limit as well! Ultimately, when the world is brought to completion by the Lord, all of these things will pass away. They will be no more.
Note that Our Lord did not come to take pain away from the world. Jesus loves us all. He came in the most perfect way. Our Lord could have snapped his fingers and removed pain from the world. He could have removed it in any way He chose! But He loves us so much! He chose to stretch out His hands to the wood of the Cross, and have the pain of this world nailed to Him. Note how unspeakably great that love is for us! Hear more in the audio.
We Have Been Given A Great Gift
We who live in this sin fallen world, have been given a great gift! It is a gift of faith. Faith that enables us to realize there is more than this world. We are reminded, through faith, that human life is still destined for glory; destined for happiness that will not end!
When we gather at Mass, we gather through faith knowing we are to share in the victory of the resurrection of the Lord. We are promised a share in that victory . . . all who have faith, even those that have fallen asleep and have gone before us!
Death provides a certain meaning to our living. It does so, because our time is brief. Because it is brief, what we do with our lives matters! Why? The time we have been given is the time God gives us to move into the eternal glory. Lets be honest. There are times we do not value every day that the Lord has given us! We wasted or misused many of them. We desire eternal life, but often we find ourselves not on this path.
Today We Pray For Our Loved Ones
On All Saints Day we recognize and pray for those who used their time on earth well! Today, we remember that is not all of us! While the blessed in heaven are perfect, the mercy of God extends to the imperfect as well!
Yesterday’s Gospel was the Beatitudes, and name the glory the Saints realized in their lives. Today, we hear the same Beatitudes, a call from God for all of us to grow into their fullness.
Today we pray for our loved ones who walked the path of life, in most cases, imperfectly! Many are undergoing a purification so the glory promised to them might be theirs.
Hear more of this Meditation Piece on All Souls Days. Listen to how we are still connected to our loved ones, even after they have gone on before us! Hear how we can still help them!
The Lord Knocks On the Human Heart
Today’s Gospel, Jesus says, Father will be against Son, Mother will be against Daughter, . . . etc.
There are some passages in scripture, that are very difficult. Today’s Gospel is difficult. What does Jesus mean in today’s reading by what He said? What is Jesus saying with this division?
In today’s first reading (not contained within this audio), St. Paul says everything is rubbish . . . so that I will be better able to possess Jesus. What does St. Paul mean?
Jesus is not talking about the destruction of the family. Jesus says He has not come to bring peace to the earth. Listen to this Mediation Piece that discusses what Jesus means in the Gospel. The Homily also explores St. Paul’s message.
St. Paul’s Message About the Human Heart
St. Paul’s continues in the Letter to the Romans.
He tells us to always chose the better way! Yet today’s readings says, after choosing the better way, I still do not get there. Perhaps everyone can relate to this statement. St. Paul says there may be times when one is pulled off course, even though one has the desire to do something good.
St. Paul talks about the divided heart within humans. As soon as I decide to do the will of God, often, a human heart’s wickedness wakes up inside. St. Paul expresses the pain. He recognizes the pain. When I set my mind to the good, my flesh resists. St. Paul is honest in his teachings of the Spiritual Life.
Listen to this Meditation piece.
Let Me Tend the Fig Tree
St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans has an interesting statement.
Consider what you think about regularly. Consider what occupies your time, regularly. Not what you wish to occupy your attention, but what indeed actually occupies your time; your thinking and feeling. St. Paul says, if what occupies your attention is with the spirit of the flesh, that person is concerned about worldly things. The person of the Spirit occupies their time with spiritual things.
What an interesting way for taking the pulse of our spiritual life! What are my real focus and attention?
Listen to St. Paul’s statement as he begins his teaching on freedom and what it means to our spiritual life. Hear the Homily connect the Gospel to a teaching that should impact our Spiritual Life. Listen to this Meditation Media for the Week.
St. Teresa of Jesus
St. Teresa has much to teach us. She ran away from home hoping that someone would catch her and kill her!
She was a young girl, still a child when she did this . . . hoping that she would go straight to Heaven. Not many people young or old think this way.
Her life was marked with a burning desire for eternal life. Wow! Think about that statement for a moment. Do we live our lives this way? Do we have a burning desire for eternal life? Is it not the hope of all Christians for eternal life with Jesus? Yet, do we live our lives with burning desire?
One of the great things that St. Teresa teaches us . . . is desire is not enough!
Today’s Gospel should be familiar to most. I am the vine and you are the branches. Without the vine, the branch is nothing. Teresa’s life is evident in this Gospel. God gives Teresa a gift. He gives her a vision. If she continued on her present course, she would not achieve the eternal life she had hoped for in Heaven. Understand what it meant for St. Teresa and what she did next.
Hear about her teaching for all Christians!
The Right to Life
The Homily speaks of St. Teresa, and introduces the Novena that was held on The Right To Life after the Mass.
Understand why the Church honors St. Teresa as a saint and a doctor of the Church. Listen to this Meditation piece.
Apostles James and John Make a Request of Jesus
James and John are two of the Apostles. They have been with Jesus for nearly three years!
They have been exposed to His teachings, like no other. They ask Jesus for something. They ask to sit, when they enter into Heaven, on Jesus’ left and right side. They know Jesus better than almost anyone. Yet, they still do not really know Him!
The two Apostles, in their prayer, say to Jesus what they want. But what happens if you do not want the right thing(s)? We can relate this passage to our own Spiritual Prayers. At times, we ask the Lord for a special intention. But what if it is not the right thing? Prayer is not a matter of saying or doing the right formula. But prayer does involve being in the right spirit .
The two Apostles know that Jesus will come into His Glory and He has the power to answer prayers. The Apostles know that. We, also, know that. They again . . . say what they want. While they ask for several reasons, some are right. But not all! They ask the Lord because in one sense they wish to remain close to the Lord. Good! But they also want to be near His power. To be on or near His throne . . . near His Status. They, in effect, wish to Glorify themselves. Not Good!
This is a trap Christians have fell into for two thousand years and continue to fall into, even today.
Listen to this Meditation media and understand how John and James’ request is distorting there Spiritual Prayer Life.
Queen of the Rosary: What Does This Marian Title Mean?
St. Louis de Montfort was known as the Apostle of the Rosary, and often had a large set of the Rosary.
In the beginning of the Homily, a Rosary set was revealed where each bead was almost 12 inches wide. A dramatic sight that sets the tone of the Homily.
Emphasis is placed on what we all hold in our hand when we say the Rosary. What we actually hold when we pray does matter. When we pray, we pray to that one who hid the immensity of Divine Power in a fragile body. He was also pleased to cloister within the womb, and enter the world through little Mary.
The Rosary beads contain greatness within it. We honor Our Lady under the title Queen of the Holy Rosary. What does it mean to be Queen of the Rosary? The Homily explores the passage of The Book of Sirach: Ch. 24 in helping to explain this title. Listen to this Meditation Piece and understand what this title’s meaning represents.
God’s Message to Jonah: I Desire Mercy
Sometimes the People of God Can Be Silly
The Book of Jonah is short, only four chapters long. It is worth reading alone, if you are willing to pay attention, and to be ready to laugh! This book is the telling of the story of a reluctant prophet. It makes great use of humor to underscore a serious point.
When we think of Jonah, we often think of his three days in the belly of a giant fish. But why was he the reluctant prophet? In a prior Gospel we hear, after the fish spit him out, he went on and preached in the city. He had tremendous success, as the city people listened to him. These people were warriors and conquerors, and people of terror. They were renowned for their terror and were enemies of Israel.
After his preaching and warning the people, Jonah climbs a nearby mountain to wait for the fireworks. He waits for the ultimate destruction of the city!…which never comes. He wants to see the overdue punishment of this wicked society. He waits the 40 days … camping out waiting for justice… to see what is done to these people. The sun beats down on Jonah, but he cannot go anywhere, awaiting the destruction of this city.
Listen to the end story of Jonah. Hear this Meditation Piece and why he is the reluctant prophet and witness the mercy of God.
The Greatness of the Holy Rosary: A Gift From Heaven
The very essence of the Holy Rosary are the Our Father, Hail Mary and meditation on the Holy Mysteries.
Everything else is non-essential (optional). It is important that we recognize this statement!
These three elements are the core of the Rosary. It is important to understand this; because often Christians add details that sometimes knock us off what are the core fundamentals.
If you want to understand the greatness of the Holy Rosary and the Feast of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary, we must understand this. The greatness of the Rosary is not found within the miracles obtained when praying it! The greatness of the Rosary is not what we may decide to add to it (additional prayers). Not that these additions are useless. The essential greatness of the Rosary is found within the essential elements that make up the Rosary. Our Father, Hail Mary and the Mysteries of Jesus Christ.
Why are the essentials important? Because of where the essentials come from! The Rosary is a Heaven sent and Heaven given prayer! The Rosary is Heaven sent, but not because Our Lady appeared to St. Dominic and taught him the Rosary. No, that is not why it is so great!
The Rosary is Heaven sent and Heaven given, because that is where the Our Father and Hail Mary prayers come from. These prayers are a gift from Heaven!
Learn more about the power of the Holy Rosary and the feast day celebrated this day in October. Hear about the secret and power of the Holy Rosary!
Left on Our Own . . .
Sometimes as we read the Gospel, we encounter some confusing statements made by Jesus.
There are times when numerous things are said, one after the other. At times it can be overwhelming, if not confusing. Today’s Gospel is like this.
In the first reading (not captured within the audio), the message is Jesus is patient with sinners. Yet, he does not encourage or stand for evilness. The message goes on to question what is in the heart.
In today’s Gospel, it is what is in the heart of man that is questioned by Jesus. In today’s sinful world, it is easy to have evil take residence in the heart. It is also true that we are content to allow our hearts to make a home in the wickedness that the world offers.
As Jesus moves in His ministry, he heals those inflicted by evil spirits. He casts out demons. The reaction from the crowds is remarkable! The crowd concludes, that Jesus can drive out demons, because he is a demon also. Their hearts were closed at the sight of this healing miracle.
Many in the crowd already made up their minds about Jesus, so when He gives them a sign, their hearts are closed to it. Others demand a sign from Heaven, even after Jesus just gave them one – the healing.
Jesus asks the crowd, are others who cast out demons in the name of God, are they also evil? They presuppose that Jesus is a demon, what about others?
Jesus then continues talking to the crowd to make them understand. A House divided against itself . . . Jesus says evil does not throw out evil. Why would you think that? Historically, this statement was also used by Abraham Lincoln as we stood on the doorstep of Civil War.
Left on your own, all will experience wickedness. Left on your own, all that is less than you . . . will begin to dominate you. On your own, your heart will be dominated by wickedness. Arrogance, pride, stubbornness, anger, resentment and fear will take root in man’s heart . . . left on his own.
Jesus tells us in this Gospel that He will not let us be on our own. Jesus tells us He breaks the power of the wickedness.
Hear more in this Meditation Piece.
The audio references an icon painting in Pilgrim Hall. That picture also appears on the QoAH's website. Hear its description near the end of this audio.
Blessed Is The One Who . . .
Today’s Gospel is one of the most important Marian passages in the bible.
Upon first hearing, one would not think so. Indeed, it almost sounds like Our Lord is slighting Our Lady. Not so!
When we hear about Our Lady in the Gospel, this passage is not normally sited. Yet, again, it is one of the most important. It is the one place where we hear Jesus talk about His mother. (Lk 11:27-28). One would think this passage would be more well known and more talked about by theologians. In just two verses, they are incredibly important in understanding the greatness of Our Lady.
Jesus Tells Us of the Greatness of His Mother
Jesus is preaching, and the hearts of many are moved. One lady was so stirred she can not contain herself. She is overwhelmed by Jesus’ preaching, and how marvelous and good He is. Her words that she cries out complements His family and His Mother. How proud His Mother must be to produce a Son so great as this! How blessed by Heaven she must be! If the Son is so marvelous . . . there must also be something marvelous about the life of the woman who raised Him.
This woman in so struck with the greatness of Jesus. She is also struck with the one who is closest to Him in human terms than anyone else, His Mother. She must be remarkably happy and grace-filled.
Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts in which you nursed.
In other words, Blessed is Your Mother! Jesus then corrects her, by suggesting she say something else. This is what, at first glance, sounds puzzling. One could rightfully ask, does Jesus not want us to praise His Mother? No! That is not what Jesus is implying or saying!
Listen to this meditation piece and understand why it is an important Mariology passage. Listen to how Jesus describes Our Lady’s greatness! Understand what Jesus says about His Mother. Understand what Jesus is actually telling us!
St. Therese of The Child Jesus
In today’s modern world, its tempting to view St. Therese as a cute, little saint with a safe spirituality. That would be an incorrect view for this saint.
She is remarkable, in part because of her Little Way. It is not a trivial way. It not a “so easy” way, that we do not have to think about it. Often time, the simplest things are also the deepest. Often, simple things are the most difficult to appreciate and to master.
Therese is remarkable for a number of reasons. But all the reasons stems from her sense of vocation. In her writings she explains how she recognized her full vocation.
Her vocation was not simply to be a nun. Her fuller vocation was to do great things for God! This is what the Church describes as “Holy Desire”. Not the desire to be great for myself, but for God! This desire is not a desire to great things in the world, or to achieve a sense of accomplishment. It is the desire to do something great for another! The desire to do something great for God!
This type of desire springs from love. It is why the Church selects this Gospel reading, in which it discusses who is the greatest in the kingdom of God! The homily discusses this further.
St. Therese is the patron for foreign missions, having never really physically traveled. She longed to join missionaries in their work. She prayed for missionaries. The homily explores this further.
She wanted to be an Apostle, and struggled to find her way. Given her great love and desire for the Lord, what should be her role (beyond just being a nun). She searched for the answers and found it in St. Paul’s writings. The homily explains this further, but Therese realizes that her role must come from God.
In further reading St. Paul’s writings she was struck when she read about setting your heart and eyesight on the most excellent of all things.
Hear about the love St. Therese has for the Church and for God. Hear more about this saint and her call to Holy Desire and her Fuller Vocation. List to this Meditation piece.
St. Michael and the Feast of the Archangels
The Feast of the Archangels
You will see Heaven open and the angels of God will be ascending and descending on the Son of Man.
What an interesting statement within the bible. In speaking this way, it underscores the feast celebrated today. That is . . . the angelic powers serve Christ. They carry out His will.
Why is that important? The world has some odd ideas about angels. Angels are messengers from Heaven. On this Feast day of the great Archangels – Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, we recognize the importance of angels and their doing of the will of the Lord.
These three Archangels, however, have a role that is important, decisive, and powerful. Lists exists of the names of seven or nine Archangels. However, authoritatively, there are only three in which we know their names.
The Three Archangels
The names of the arch angels are a message in themselves. Indeed, angel means messenger. The three Archangels have a message.
• In the ancient world, the “el” at the end of each of the names means God. Again, in the ancient world, “el” means God.
Each of the three names all say something about God, and to their role or mission.
Michael: means Who is Like God? The name in a sense is a question. His role: None is Like God! He defends the Honor of the Lord.
Raphael: means the Healing of God! His role: He comes to us and walks with us in times of our woundedness. He brings healing to the world.
Gabriel: means The Strength of God. He is also known as the great messenger. Why is he known as Strength of God? Because he is the messenger that brings the word of God. He brings the word of God’s will into the world.
Hear how these three Archangels serve the Lord in this meditation piece. Celebrate and listen to how each of these archangels are at the service of Jesus, and what that actually means.
The Greatest Love After Love of God
The Greatness of Marriage and Family
Today’s Gospel starts with a question from the Pharisees.
The story centers on marriage. Jesus states … “therefore, what God has joined together, no human being must separate”.
The Pharisees miss the point by asking a question; Does God allow a person to obtain a divorce? The question misses the point. It is not what I am allowed to do, but what one should do! Jesus goes on and answers . . . what should one do.
In the homily, it is stated that the love of man for his wife, and the wife’s love for her husband (after the human heart’s love for God), is the greatest of love. All other types of love are the child of this love.
The Pharisees had an attitude of trying to trick Jesus. Because of their attitude, they did not understand marriage. They did not understand the beauty of the family. Jesus turns a question into a discussion on what marriage is and the importance of the family.
He makes a statement on the God given greatness of marriage . . . a statement on the greatness of the family. Jesus talks about what God intended for marriage and the family.
Jesus tells us of the dignity of marriage given to us by God! Hear more about this fundamental order within humans. Listen to this meditation piece and understand this special love … and gift from God.
Receiving the Glory of His Forgiveness
A Relationship With Jesus
Today’s Gospel passage focuses on Simon, a Pharisees and a Sinful Woman.
Simon has a serious faith, and was proud. He welcomed Jesus into his home. Further, a sinner begins to wash Jesus’ feet with her tears, and wipes them with her hair. She anoints Him with oil.
In scripture, when someone invites Jesus into their home, we see others are also present. In our modern world, many Christians attempt to invite Jesus and have a relationship by making it private. Jesus and me. Many think they have a relationship with the Lord . . . a private relationship.
There is no relationship with the Lord that does not include His people.
In the passage we see Simon opening his door to Jesus and other, uninvited guests also show up, including the sinful woman. The door that was open for Jesus was also open for her. There is a lesson here for us as well. We do not get to pick and choose those who will be present in our relationship with the Lord. We certainly can pick some, but the Lord has others that He draws to Him. If we are with the Lord, then these people are also drawn to us also. In the story, the righteous man invites Jesus into his home, and the unrighteous woman also enters.
St. Louis de Montfort echoes this fact. When on a mission and someone invited him to dinner, the saint would say yes, but only if he could bring a friend. He would show up with several beggars. If you invite me, you also invite those that come with me. A lesson Jesus taught . . . a lesson Montfort lived by.
Repentance Comes First Note the woman. She desires to express affection to the Lord. The woman desires to honor the Lord. She desires to praise the Lord. Notice how she starts. She doesn’t start with a word of praise. She doesn’t immediately start by anointing Jesus. Why? Because that would be the wrong move.
Before she anoints the Lord, she weeps. Notice the sequence. Repentance comes first! Not praise, but repentance comes first! She knows the Lord and knows He receives the sinner. She does not praise His Glory, without first receiving the Glory of His forgiveness and healing. Our praise and prayers are often shallow because we forget this lesson.
Find out more about the significance of this passage to our Spiritual Life. Listen to this Meditation piece.
The Gestures and Vessels of Mass
The human mind, at times wanders, even in Church.
We mark ourselves before the Gospel is proclaimed as a way for helping prepare to pay attention. The marking is actually a way to ask the Lord for a gift. We mark our forehead to help us remember His Word. May the Word, stay on our mind. After that, we mark our lips . . . and then we finally make the third sign over the heart. Hear why we do each of these actions within this meditation audio.
In the Homily, the question is posed to young people; should a priest use a coffee cup or chalice? Why use the chalice? An explanation is given as to why the priests use it during the Mass . Listen to why a priest uses certain things during Mass. Listen to the analogy about a person who receives the Eucharist.
This homily is entertaining and great for young people, and also as a reminder for not so young people, about certain gestures and vessels (and our hearts) used in the Mass.
The Seeds and Our Hearts
In the parable of sowing of the seeds, there is a strange passage.
The Sower sows the seeds everywhere. He sows some on the stone pavement. The birds come and takes it away…and some goes on good ground . . . etc.
The disciples are confused. What does the parable mean? In order for them to understand, they come to the Lord and they asks for an explanation. The disciple had to think about the parable, and then go to the Lord and ask for an explanation. This is something we all can take away from the Gospel reading. We must seek the Lord and ask for understanding. This is why the Lord establishes His Church. So we have a source to go to; to seek an understanding from a source that is reliable and trust worthy.
We likely have all heard this Gospel passage. However, hear an explanation of this parable, perhaps differently than in the past. Gain an understanding about the Word and the receiving hearts of the world. The seeds and our own hearts. Meditate on this piece for the week.
The Word of the Cross
There are passages and teachings in the Gospel, when Jesus speaks to everybody (the world).
There are also passages and teachings, that are spoken by Jesus, but not to just anybody. Just to certain people. In today’s Gospel, Jesus is not speaking to the world. He has already done that. Jesus speaks to His disciples. He is also speaking to us! Jesus is not speaking to the rest of the world. He speaks to us! He speaks to all those who have been trying to follow Him.
As we follow Christ . . . as we become more mature spiritually, more is open up to us. The Lord says . . . now I have something for you. He has something to share with us.
He explains on His journey to Jerusalem, that He will be arrested, condemned and put to death. The disciples will be witnesses and will be messengers. Jesus wants His disciples involved. But, He has to prepare them. The Lord prepares us as well! Jesus describes what His Cross is. He describes the way! He describes the Word of the Cross.
Listen to this Word of the Cross. Listen to this lesson to Jesus' disciples, and to us! Hear about this great Mystery of the Cross. Hear more in this meditation piece.
Lord, Why Don’t Your Disciples Fast?
The Pharisees complain to Jesus.
Your disciples don’t fast and pray as others. Fasting and praying are not bad. He does not answer them directly. What is the point of fasting and prayer? Jesus implies if the fasting and prayer is at the service of getting ready for the Messiah, what are they really going to do when He actually shows up? Jesus says . . . He has shown up!
Jesus, in answering this question as He does, He indirectly says who He really is! Stop getting ready for His arrival, and meet Him!
Spirituality, at times, is similar. Its not always getting ready for His arrival! It is also recognizing when you are in His presence.
Hear more about the old and new wine and wine skins. Hear more in this Meditation piece connecting how this Gospel also relates to one’s Spirituality!
Who Did You Bring to Mass?: A Homily on Faith
Today’s Gospel focuses on the healing: the deaf and mute man. We are like this man. When we go to Church, Jesus finds us. Jesus also finds the deaf/mute man.
Who do bring to Mass? Listen to this homily on faith!
Be Careful What We Think Faith Is!: The Rich Will Find Entering Into Heaven Difficult!
In today’s Gospel Jesus tells us that it will be difficult for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven!
Jesus does not say the abortionist, the drug dealers or some other evil doer … will be difficult to enter heaven. He says the rich will… find it difficult!
Jesus does not give these other things a free pass into heaven. But sometimes Christians give ourselves a free pass. We think . . . at least we did not do drugs, or some other thing. Christians have a habit of thinking we are doing better than we really are!
Wealth. . . it will be difficult! It is serious enough that Jesus talks about it. In today’s world we need to pause to understand what Jesus is saying. How difficult it is for one who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven!
If one is about to say, I am not rich, so I do not have to worry about this statement from Jesus. No, that is not the point! The point is not the quantity of our material wealth. It is not how large a paycheck one receives. It is what masters the human heart.
Hear more about this topic, an important one for all believers of Jesus. Meditate on this topic.
St. Bernard: The Gold Standard for the Teaching and Living a Devotion to Mary
At the end of the Gospel reading, the Priest or the Deacon kisses the Gospel.
St Bernard’s Feast Day we celebrate this day, is a Doctor of the Church. Kissing the Gospel sums up St. Bernard’s life. He is the “Gold Standard” for Devotion to Our Lady. He lived more than 600 years before St. Louis de Montfort.
How is it that he is the gold standard in regard to the teaching of devotion to Mary? It is truly unfortunate that many Christians that have a devotion to Mary, do not really know about this man . . . this saint. He is one of the holiest, powerful and influential man the Catholic tradition has ever produced. Bernard entered religious life as a young man. He daily fasted and prayed, as he waited for the Lord to speak to him. He entered into a watchful fasting. In doing so he emptied out himself for material things (hear more about what this type of fasting means within the audio).
He was a great teacher and writer. While he was educated, his holiness sprang from the well of his prayer. Kings, Queens and even the Pope sought out his advice, even though he lived and remained largely isolated in his abbey.
He sought out Our Lady, but his objective, was the love of God. A principle not foreign to those who practice Montfortian Spirituality.
St. Bernard’s Reflection: . . . In his reflection on the Love of God, Bernard describes Christian Life as a movement of four stages of Love. Wow, how insightful! St. Bernard states that all humans begin with a Love for Self. It is a natural beginning. Christians and non-Christians begin here.
However, if we are going to progress spirituality, we must have Love of God. We move toward Love of God because of the things God does for us! This is a natural progression. It is not bad, to love God for this reason. God is gracious and merciful. Its how we begin to know God. We begin to love God, because we see how good God is to us! However, Bernard also states, many Christians stop here.
. . . Stages of Love But there is more in the stages of Love. When we really appreciate God and all that He does for us; when we really appreciate that, we enter into the next stage of Love. We come to understand How Good God Is! How Wise He Is! How Loving and Forgiving God Is! We move to love God, not because of what he does for us, but for how Wonderous, Great and Good God Is!
This is a marvelous place to be and many mature Christian hearts reach this place. It is truly wonderous. However, this is not the highest level. Typically this fact is not recognized by all Christians who have reached the third stage. The fourth stage completes the circle. We Love Ourselves For the Sake of God! When we understand how God loves us, we see and love our lives differently.
Hear more about the four stages of Love and also more about a wonderous saint with a deep devotion to Our Lady and Our Lord. Hear how Our Lady helps us along this journey of Love. Understand the greatness of this Saint and his impact on the Church! Listen to this Meditation Media piece.
What God Expects From The Grace He Gives Us All: The Parable of the Talents
In today’s Gospel, most are familiar with the story of the Talents.
However the scripture is unsettling. In today’s world, many believe the Resurrection occurred two thousand years ago. We believe and know that Jesus loves us. Many, however, believe that Heaven is ours by right. Some believe, today, that it doesn’t manner how I live, as long as I am basically OK. As long as I do not commit a serious sin. They believe this because God loves me (us) so much … He will overlook everything.
Then, we have today’s Gospel, which states the exact opposite!
Note the image in the Gospel. The King is going away on a journey. This is similar to the Lord going away during the Ascension. And what did the Lord say to His Church and His disciples? I entrust everything to you!
In the Gospel the King gathers his servants in preparing to leave and he trusts his wealth to them before he goes. The servants must be about service until the master returns. When the master does return, he calls his servants to give an accounting of their actions. Notice the master is very deliberate on giving to his servants. He doesn’t give them more than what they can handle. He doesn’t ask much in proportion to what is given.
God gives each of us grace. He gives us talents, not for our own use exclusively, but in His service.
Listen to the expectations of the master and Listen to this homily and use it as a meditation piece for our own Spiritual Journey.
Hypocrisy of the Heart
The Gospel has a special tone today.
Its focus is on the hypocrisy of the heart… not of the unbeliever, but of the believer. The Lord reserves His stern words for this condition.
St. Louis de Montfort, in his Treatise of True Devotion, he speaks about if we are going to have a devotion to Mary, we need to get it right. He writes about seven false devotions to Mary, so that we all do not fall into a trap. Its possible that a heart devoted to Mary, could actually be bad for seven reasons. The last of these seven false devotions is called: Hypocritical Devotion to Mary. Hear what this is and how it relates to the Gospel and what Jesus teaches us!
Listen to this Meditation Media for the Week.
The Foundation of the Church: The Twelve Apostles
In life, many believe there are two ways to travel.
Some are not sure where they are going and take a road and will know their destination when they see it. Others, know exactly where they are going, and map it out. Spiritually, our journey can take the same two ways.
The people of God, is not founded upon the twelve tribes of Israel. Wow! What a curious statement. We always heard that God’s chosen people are the Israelites and the twelve tribes of Israel! How could the people of God not have at its foundation the twelve tribes?
The foundation for the people of God is the Church! That also is curious, since Israel comes before the Church! How could the Church be the foundation? In time, Israel came first. The twelve tribes of Israel, however, are not the foundation for God’s people. The twelve Apostles are the foundation for the Church. Again, Israel exist at the service of God’s plan for the Church! The Church is the reason Israel exists!
The foundation stones are the Apostolic witness of the Apostles. In the Gospel it is stated Jesus saw Nathaniel, one of the Apostles. In the Homily, it is stated Jesus also saw you. See how you connect to Apostles . . . and the Church! Here more in this Meditation Media. Hear more why Abraham is at the service of God’s plan.
Why Doesn’t God Just Get Rid of Evil? Why Doesn't God Get Rid of the Weeds?
Evil exists in the world. Often, people exclaim, why doesn’t God simply get rid of evil in the world?
Why doesn’t God just get rid of the weeds in the fields? Weeds are part of today’s Gospel parable.
Be careful what one wishes! In the parable, we are not just talking about good and bad seeds. We are not talking just about good and bad plants. We are talking about people and life.
Jesus reminds us, when God made the world, and when He made the human heart, He sowed in it nothing but goodness. But in the human heart, an enemy did come and sowed evil into man’s heart. Selfishness . . . and so many other evils. Ever since the Garden of Eve, we have a mixture of good and evil in man’s heart.
Despite the evil in the world; despite the wickedness, the heart is more than weeds. It is more than evil. There is a mixture of good an evil. The difficulty is . . .this good and evil resides together in the human heart. At times, it is simply difficult to tell the wheat from the weeds. It is not until they start bearing fruit, that one can distinguish the wheat from the weeds. When they first start to grow, they look the same. The audio unpacks this more.
Humans can not always recognize the sinfulness that exists within us. We can not examine our own hearts and always tell them (good and evil) apart. Hear more about the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds.
Meditate on Why Not Just Get Rid of the Weeds?
The Parable of the Good and Bad Seeds
In today’s Gospel, the topic is sowing of the seeds. At times, the Gospel references seeds in different ways. Today’s Gospel, there are good and bad seeds.
The Bible, in general, is at times difficult to read. Not everyone will understand its meaning. Often, even transparent readings . . . have deeper meanings that are often misunderstood or not realized. Often, when we run into this, Christians seek deeper meaning, or an explanation, from the wrong sources. The audio explores this further.
The Homily then unpacks the Gospel reading of the good and bad seeds in a deeper way. Meditate on this Homily.
Illuminating Our Relationship With the Lord Like Moses
Moses had a very unique relationship with the Lord. His skin shown so bright that people could not bear to look at him directly, after he spoke to the Lord, and after he prayed. He was partially illuminous.
Prayer in front of the Lord changes people. There is a luminosity that is only achieved in prayer. Moses experienced it. Moses used to hide his face when he spoke to people. However, he never hid his face in front of the Lord. The radiance is the result of coming into the presence of the Lord.
Our prayer can be contrast with Moses. Often, Christians in their prayer, as they approach God, try to represent themselves as something better than what we really are. We try to focus in our prayer, often unsuccessfully. Yet we try to focus hoping that God will recognize this heighten awareness in our prayer. God sees everything! Including what we cover over in our lives.
Moses recognizes this. He doesn’t try to cover up in front of the Lord. Moses has a luminous face, because he doesn’t cover up his heart! Listen to how proper prayer, with the right love and attitude within the heart, in front of the Lord can dramatically change one’s relationship with the Lord.
Hear more within this Meditation Media.
The Church Celebrates a Family!
Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus
By decree, this memorial was changed from celebrating Saint Martha, to celebrating Martha, Mary and Lazarus.
The Church holds up before us a sign of holiness . . . a family. Two sisters, and a brother. The holiness that is found in the household of these siblings, is what the Church wants us all to contemplate.
Jesus is found several times in their home. This family welcomes Jesus, perhaps differently than other families. The Lord feels at home . . . in their home.
One of the ideas we should all meditate on . . .is the idea of holiness. All holiness is not the same. This family . . . three people, had different relationships with the Lord. Yet, they were all holy. The audio explores this idea further.
Each of us are given a specific gift, a specific way in relating to Jesus. A gift that is a powerful and life giving relationship with Jesus.
The Church asks for us to reflect on our own relationships with our family members. How?
Hear more about the specific gifts and specific ways this family relates to Jesus. Hear more about the relationship gift we all have been given within this Meditation Media.
The Church celebrates this memorial on July 29th.
Those Who Can Not Be My Disciples
In today’s Gospel, Jesus outlines those who can not be His disciples. This Gospel is both difficult to hear, as well as remarkable.
Unless you hate your life, you can not be my disciple. Unless you pick up and carry your cross, you can not be my disciple.
In today’s world, we often say … family comes first. Jesus, however, says . . . no it does not! In the modern world, we often hear . . . I come first! Jesus says, no, you do not!
Note, the shocking word Jesus uses in the Gospel. “Hate”. You must hate your life, Jesus tells us. What is Jesus telling us? In another part of the Bible, Jesus tell us to love ourselves. Today’s Gospel, He tells us to Hate our lives. The audio dives into this further. What Jesus is asking us, via these statements is this; Are you serious about following me, or not?
Hear more in this Meditation Media piece. What does it take to really be a disciple of Jesus? Also, on this feast day, hear about the extraordinary life of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
Why Are You Here?
Today’s Gospel focus moves beyond the feeding of the people with loaves of bread and fish.
Jesus departs, and the people do not see Jesus, or His disciples. The people go across the water and find Jesus once again.
Jesus asks them a question. Why are you here? They have just been fed, and yet are looking for more signs from Jesus. Why are you here?, Jesus asks. They are here because they wanted to find Jesus.
Yet, that is not enough. They came to find Jesus. And Jesus, basically says, Why are you really here? They traveled a great distance to be with Jesus. And He asks the people that question (from the Bread of Life discourse in Jn:6).
This Gospel is also for us. Why do we seek Jesus? Why do we go to Mass? And, why do we desire the Holy Eucharist?
Listen to this Meditation piece. Hear why the Israelites in the Gospel were looking for Jesus the way they did.
Lord, Call Me To Come To You
The Lord’s walking on water is a different experience for His disciples.
As great as it is to see the Lord restore someone’s sight, this experience is indeed different. The Lord’s walking on the top of the water is very different.
Jesus chooses this time to walk on the water. Note how the Gospel begins! Jesus sends the disciples away, so he could pray alone. He sent them away in the boat. The Lord knows what He is going to do. His disciples do not. The Apostles have seen much, and have been with Jesus about two years.
It is very similar in our Spiritual Life. The Lord sends us away. He sends us away from the familiar. We may not know exactly where Jesus is, but we know He sent us in a specific direction.
While the wind slows the Apostles in the boat, it does not impact Jesus. Jesus is walking on the water. Water holds no shape. Jesus rules the water, and can walk upon it. He can command the waters. It is not a threat to the Lord. What a different experience for the disciples.
The disciples first think He is a ghost. Its not natural for anyone to walk on water. They do not recognize Him, until He speaks. This happens in our own Spiritual Life. Often we do not recognize the Lord, until we hear His voice.
Hear more on the parallelism of this Gospel reading. Hear how the Gospel reading of the disciples witnessing the Lord walk on water connects to our own Spiritual Life.
Growth in Holiness
Saint John Vianney
Saint John is the patron saint of parish priests. This is the day we honor not only Saint John, but parish pastors. St. John is the model to what a good parish pastor is in our communities. It is a day we pray to Saint John, for his intercession. Intercession for our parish priests.
Growth in holiness is difficult. In the readings about the Israelites, at the doorstep of the promise land, some make up excuses as to why they can not enter. In today’s Gospel we hear of a woman coming to the savior, and she will not take no for an answer to her prayer. Two extremes.
How often do we experience what the Israelites experience? We desire something. As we are close … we make up excuses as to why we do not move forward. This happens in the Spiritual Life also. We desire to be more prayerful. As we do so and the demands of life come upon us, suddenly we are so tired, we no longer can pray as we desire.
Faith is not believing in things Jesus. Faith is believing in Jesus.
This meditation piece points out what the Israelites failure were in their Spiritual Life. Listen to the lesson and incorporate it into your own Spiritual Life.
Hear more in this Meditation piece.
Moses’ Lesson for Us Today
Israel experiences a difficult and lengthy journey from slavery to the promise land.
This has been the subject of recent Mass’ readings. Its important to realize that as miraculous the events in the readings are, it was also a torturous journey. Why was it torturous? Because of the state of the hearts of the people on this journey.
Time and time again, even as the Lord performed something outstanding to deliver them, they refused to trust the Lord. They cling to their self-reliance, and to their insecurity.
Over and over again, as soon as something difficult arises, the same lack of trust in the Lord materializes. Lack of faith is not a new thing.
When the people finally reach the promise land, Moses does not enter it with them. He however, gives the people one last lesson. The freedom to which they are moving is not their right … and it is not because of their achievement! When they enter this land and experience prosperity, it was not earned by themselves. This prosperity awaits them and was given to them by someone else. When one experiences goodness, do not forget the one who gives this goodness! Have trust in the Lord! This is the lesson of Moses. A lesson to Israel, and a lesson to us all.
Hear more about the lesson and how it should impact our Spiritual Life. Listen also to how the day’s Gospel also should impact our Spiritual Life. Hear more about this Meditation piece for the week.
For the Glory of God!
In today’s age, one does not hear often about St. Lawrence the Martyr.
And that is a shame. He is one of the great witnesses to the Gospel. Its important not to forget the history of the Church. Not to forget the holiness of great people that make holiness in today’s church possible. Lawrence is one of the great holy saints.
Lawrence was one of the seven deacons serving in Rome. He was the holiest and greatest of the seven deacons. He served the poor in the city of Rome, in the name of Jesus. His service was remarkable!
He was remarkable in service, not just because he was faithful or even generous. Lawrence was faithful and generous. He never lost the idea that he was first, himself, a beggar. He understand that before the Lord, everyone of us are beggars. Lawrence served joyfully as a result of this knowledge.
Service, according to St. Lawrence, was for the Glory of God.
Listen to more about St. Lawrence. Listen to how he served. Hear more about his example and how it should impact our own service, and our own Spiritual Life.
Additionally, listen to a Montfort priest murdered in France this past week.
. . . As I Love You!
Love one another as I have loved you.
This is the great Christian commandment. … as I have loved you … is the key to understanding this commandment. What is this key? There is something “prior” to being able to truly love one another.
In order to love well, you must first be loved well. This is what the Lord is telling us! And we are! But it is not enough that we are loved by Our Lord. We all must receive this love.
Jesus also says, we do not know what love is … unless we know God! We fall short, unless we know His love for us. That is true love. Greater than all other forms of earthly love.
Jesus does not come into this world merely for us to love one another as the world loves each other. No. He comes to give us something more. He gives the ability to love one another . . . perfectly.
There is no saying that sums up Christian life than this statement. Jesus loves me! We hear that statement in words and in song. While that’s true, Jesus’ love for us . . . is not exclusively for us!
Jesus’ love burns for us. Hear about how this statement and devotion to Mary are related.
Learn more about this most important commandment. It is something all Christians must not only know, must not only understand, but must live it. Hear more in this Meditation Media.
The Assumption: Our Feast Day Too!
Today is the Feast Day of the Assumption. It is Mary’s Feast Day! The day she victoriously was lifted into Heaven. Lifted into her glory. However, it is our feast day too! Why?
We celebrate Mary, who was lifted up on the shoulders of the Angels, and who bear her joyfully into heaven. When we gather on this day, we also lift her up. We lift her up as a Church.
This day we celebrate not just Our Lady, we celebrate on this day . . . us too! In the 1950s, Pope Pius XII issued a dogma stating Our Lady was completely assumed into Heaven.
Listen more to this Meditation audio and understand this Feast Day and why it is our feast day too!
Whoever has Ears . . .
A strange statement! What else does one do with ears? Every once in awhile, Jesus says the obvious. However, on second look, it may not be so obvious. He is making a statement about our hearing, and the lack of it.
Hear what? On any given day, what do we listen to? There is an incredible amount of sound. When we experience silence, some become disoriented. Much of the sound we hear today, is actually just noise. Background sounds. We may not be conscience of listening to the noise, but it fills our ears. Listen to this audio and understand the other types of “listening”.
There is another voice, that is often over-looked because it is easier to listen to the noise. That other voice is the voice of Christ. Whoever has ears ought to listen. Hear more about the discipline of listening to the right voice. Hear about how today’s Gospel should influence our living and spiritual life.
Open Your Heart to Jesus
The Gospel story tells us Jesus says the cities, which were immoral and committed great sins, will have an easier time on the day of judgement than those who have not committed those great sins. Wait! Isn’t that backwards? Not according to Jesus.
Lets apply that to today’s world. Is it possible that abortionists will have an easier time than some of us on the day of judgement? Is it possible that people who do wickedness and appear on the daily news, will have an easier time than some of us? Wow! That is a disturbing thought. How can that be?
When we see violence and injustice on the news and those that say … at least I am not that bad! Jesus is speaking to us! For those that say I am on the right side of … fill in the sin, Jesus is speaking to us! Just because we think we are on the right side … that we are not that bad for not committing … x-y-z sin, do not think that gets you ahead.
It’s a remarkable statement He makes in the Gospel. There is something greater than “not doing those things”. It is opening your heart when My Grace comes to you. Closing your heart to My Grace (on some levels) is a bigger crime than any of those other things.
Listen to the importance of this statement in the Gospel in our Spiritual Life.
Christianity is a Revealed Religion
This statement is important to understand. Christianity is not something we arrive at on our own.
It is not revealed to us by means of our own thinking. By definition, when something is revealed, it has been hidden. It is not obvious. If something is revealed to mean, I did not understand or know it on my own.
When we state that Christianity is revealed to us, it says something. It says something how God relates to us. While some knowledge of God is known to all, true and intimate knowledge of God only comes when the Lord reveals Himself.
No one knows the father, except the Son, and to those the Son wishes to reveal …
Find out how this revealing impacts our own Spiritual Life.