Ad Jesum per Mariam
Religion og åndelighetPodcast by Ad Jesum per Mariam
Siste episoder av Ad Jesum per Mariam podcast
- 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
- Power, Pleasure, and Honor: The Temptations That Distract Us from Christ (00:16:32)
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 to Power, 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: 1-12 First Reading Ruth 2: 1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17
- Through the Narrow Gate: Salvation as a Lifelong Journey (00:12:41)
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: 22-30 First Reading: Isaiah 66: 18-21 Second 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 (00:20:32)
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 Island The 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: 34-40 First Reading: Ruth 1: 1, 3-6, 14b-16, 22
- Trusting God at Life’s Crossroads (00:14:07)
Trusting God at Life’s Crossroads Life 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 to Trusting God at Life’s Crossroads ------------------------------------------------------- Statue Blessed Mother from the Parish St Paul the Apostle in Manhattan, New York City ------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading Matthew 18: 1-5, 10, 12-14 First Reading Deuteronomy 31: 1-8
- From Jordan’s Waters to Eternal Life: Living Christ’s Command of Love (00:24:07)
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 to From Jordan’s Waters to Eternal Life: Living Christ’s Command of Love ------------------------------------------------------------- The Baptism of Christ: Italian painter: Paris Paschalinus Bordone: 1535-1540 The painting resides at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
- Why the Disciples Failed . . . and How We Can Avoid It (00:12:20)
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 Fail Today’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: 1886 Part of the online collection of the Brooklyn Museum. --------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Matthew 17: 14-20 First Reading: Deuteronomy 6: 4-13
- Listen to Him: The Transfiguration and the Tent of the Heart (00:27:00)
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 Homily This 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: 28-36 First Reading: Daniel 7: 9-10, 13-14 Second Reading: 2 Peter 1: 16-19
- Fear Not, Little Flock: God Is Pleased to Give You a Kingdom (00:30:14)
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 Kingdom The 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 Homily Note 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 Montfort The 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: 32-48 First Reading: Wisdom 18: 6-9 Second Reading: Hebrews 11: 1-2, 8-19
- From Desert Manna to Living Bread of Jesus: Trusting the Giver (00:21:53)
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 Sower The 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 Homily It 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. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Image Parable of the Sower: Dutch Painter: Pieter Bruegel the Elder: 1557 A 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: 1-9 First Reading: Exodus 16: 1-5, 9-15
- The Spirit of Jubilee vs. the Sin of Herod (00:11:54)
The Spirit of Jubilee vs. the Sin of Herod Today’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 Jubilee In 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 to The 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: 1-12 First Reading Leviticus 25: 1, 8-17
- Three Responses to God’s Claim on Your Life (00:14:49)
Three Responses to God’s Claim on Your Life Today’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), or 3. 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: 47-53 First Reading Exodus 40: 16-21, 34-38
- Stumbling into Heaven: How Encounters with God Change Everything (00:11:01)
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 to Stumbling 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: 44-46 First Reading: Exodus 34: 29-35
- Asking in Jesus’ Name: What It Really Means to Pray (00:17:41)
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 to Asking in Jesus’ Name: What It Really Means to Pray ------------------------------------------------------------ The Virgin in Prayer: Painter: Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato: 1645 ------------------------------------------------------------ Gospel Reading Luke 11: 1-13 First Reading Genesis 18: 20-32 Second Reading Colossians 2: 12-14
- Waiting on the Mountain: Trusting God’s Time with Mary and Elijah (00:25:08)
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 Homily Their 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 (00:08:35)
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 (00:14:51)
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 Neighbor The 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: 25-37 First Reading: Deuteronomy 30: 10-14 Second Reading: Colossians 1: 15-20