Ad Jesum per Mariam
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- Settle Accounts While There’s Time: St. Paul’s Honesty and Christ’s Deliverance (00:25:23)
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 Signs Jesus 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 Work The Tribute Money: Flemish Artist and Painter: Anthony van Dyck: 1623 -------------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 12: 54-59 First Reading: Romans 7: 18-25
- Meditations on the Mysteries of the Rosary Sorrowful Mysteries (00:52:17)
Meditations on the Mysteries of the Rosary The Sorrowful Mysteries Where 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 Christ The 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 to Where 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 (00:13:44)
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 Work 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: Luke 14: 15-24 First Reading: Romans 12: 5-16
- Jesus Carrying the Fallen Home: Recovering the Divine Image Within (00:21:46)
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 Sin The 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 Within The Parable of the Lost Sheep: William George Rich: late 1800s Return to Meditation Media Gospel Reading: Luke 15:1-10 First Reading: Romans 14:7-12
- The Fire of Christ’s Heart: Surrendering to Grace or to the World (00:22:18)
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 Grace Jesus 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 Work Sacred Heart of Jesus: The Shrine of Our Lady of the Island
- A Season of Mercy: Humble Prayer and the Gift of Indulgences (00:24:29)
A Season of Mercy: Humble Prayer and the Gift of Indulgences Today’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 Me The 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 Work All 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 Death (00:13:41)
Memento Mori: Holding Onto What Matters Most in Life and Death Today’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 Mori The 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 peace Listen 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 Lord In other words, Memento Mori invites us to live well by remembering that earthly life is temporary and eternal life is our true destination. ------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work All Souls’ Day: Czech Painter: Jakub Schikaneder: 1888
- Heart Speaks to Heart: The Love of Christ in the Eucharist (00:15:52)
Heart Speaks to Heart: The Love of Christ in the Eucharist Today’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 Heart From 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 Work Christ the Savior with the Eucharist: Spanish Painter: Juan de Juanes: 1545 – 1550 This 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 (00:08:52)
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 Mission The 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 (00:17:12)
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: 1-9 First Reading: 2 Timothy 4: 10-17
- Meditations on the Mysteries of the Rosary - Joyful (00:33:24)
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 Rosary The Joyful Mysteries: The Heartbeat of the Rosary As 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 Mary When 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 to The 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 (00:13:47)
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 Work Christ And The Rich Young Ruler (cropped): German Painter: Heinrich Hoffman: 1899 ---------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 11: 15-26 First Reading: Joel 1: 13-15; 2: 1-2
- The God Who Refuses to Be Narrow: Jonah, the Samaritan, and the Boundless Mercy of Christ (00:22:13)
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 (00:12:14)
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 Themselves The 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: 1894 Oil painting currently resides in The Riverside Church, New York City. ---------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Luke 17: 11-19 First Reading: 2 Kings 5: 14-17 Second Reading: 2 Timothy 2: 8-13
- Lord, Increase Our Faith: The Power of a Mustard Seed (00:24:18)
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 Work Parable of the Mustard Seed: Dutch Poet, Illustrator and Engraver: Jan Luyken: (lived) 1649-1712 ------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel: Luke 17: 5-10 First Reading: Habakkuk 1: 2-3; 2: 2-4 Second Reading: 2 Timothy 1: 6-8, 13-14
- Praying with Mary: The Power and Mystery of the Rosary (00:18:17)
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.
- The Eye of God: Seeing the Overlooked with St. Vincent de Paul (00:22:50)
The Eye of God: Seeing the Overlooked with St. Vincent de Paul by Ad Jesum per Mariam
- Mary Magdalene and the Call to Bring Our Bondages to Christ (00:09:12)
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 Wealth True 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
- Grace for the Journey: Learning to Dance with Christ (00:09:04)
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 Work Christ and the Children: Mexican Painter: Juan Urruchi: late 1800s --------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel: Luke 7: 31-35 First Reading: 1 Timothy 3: 14-16
- You Are the Temple of God: Becoming Dwelling Places of His Presence (00:11:41)
You Are the Temple of God: Becoming Dwelling Places of His Presence In 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 God The 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 First Step to Sainthood: Receiving God’s Love (00:11:27)
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 Work God the Father and the Holy Spirit: Italian Artist: Pompeo Batoni: (l. 1708-1787)
- The Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary: Following Mary in Discovering Our Mission (00:14:37)
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 Role The 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 Work The Madonna of the Roses: French Artist and Painter: William-Adolphe Bouguereau: 1903
- When the Word Takes Root: Lessons from St. John Chrysostom (00:27:26)
When the Word Takes Root: Lessons from St. John Chrysostom Today’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 to When the Word Takes Root: Lessons from St. John Chrysostom --------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work The 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 High (00:17:58)
The Cross: God’s Love Lifted High The 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 Love Through 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 to The Cross: God’s Love Lifted High ---------------------------------------------------- Art6 Work Exaltation of the Holy Cross: Artist: Anonymous Russian icon painter ---------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: John 3: 13-17 First Reading: Numbers 21: 4-9 Second Reading: Philippians 2: 6-11
- The Path to True Happiness: Keys to Lasting Joy in Christ (00:11:40)
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 Happiness Jesus 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: 20-26 First Reading: Colossians 3: 1-11 ------------------------------------------------------- Art Work The Virgin Lamb: French Painter: William Adolphe Bouguereau: 1903