All Saints Parish - Sunday Homilies Podcast

In this Sunday homily, Fr. Meyer reflects on the Gospel of the rich man and Lazarus while confronting the tragic reality of gun violence in America.   He reminds us: “He knew his name… and did nothing.”   Fr. Meyer calls us to see how fatherlessness, silence, and complacency contribute to a culture of violence — and how men of faith are called to rise up. Drawing on St. Paul's words, he challenges us to pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness.   This is more than a reflection on violence — it is a call for fathers, brothers, and Christians everywhere to raise up men of God in a broken world.  

Welcome to Alive with Fr. Jonathan Meyer for the 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Luke 17:5-10). In today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us that we are “unprofitable servants.” Fr. Meyer reflects on the humility this truth calls us to embrace — recognizing that no matter our works or merits, we cannot repay what God has given us in His Son.   Through the words of Psalm 116, “How can I make a return to the Lord for all the good He has done for me? I will take up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord,” we discover that the only response is to give ourselves fully back to Him .  

In this closing homily from the Intense Youth Conference 2025, celebrated on Trinity Sunday, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the mystery of the Trinity, the power of the Eucharist, and the universal call to holiness.   Drawing on the example of Blessed Carlo Acutis, Fr. Meyer reminds us that Jesus is our truest friend and that the Eucharist is our highway to heaven. He challenges young people — and all of us — to seek Christ daily, surrender our lives to Him, and live in communion with God and one another.  

At the Intense Youth Conference 2025, speaker Lindsey Shrock challenges young people to take an honest look at their relationship with social media.   Through humor, relatable stories, and powerful insights, she unpacks the three signs that social media may be controlling us instead of us controlling it: 1️⃣ The inability to stop scrolling 2️⃣ Finding our worth in likes and followers 3️⃣ Comparing our reality to someone else's highlight reel   Lindsey then offers practical tools to break free: filtering what we consume, putting God first, and choosing real-life connections over digital ones. Her message is a timely reminder that Christ calls us to live unfiltered, authentic lives rooted in Him — not in algorithms.  

At the Intense Youth Conference, Lindsay Shrock challenges young people to ask a powerful question: Am I controlling social media, or is social media controlling me?   In this inspiring talk, Lindsay shares real-life examples, practical steps, and faith-filled wisdom on how to live authentically, put God first, and overcome the comparison trap that social media so often creates.  

In this Sunday's homily, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on St. Paul's urgent call: “In every place, the men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument” (1 Tim 2:8). We live in a world filled with violence, division, and fatherlessness. The solution is not more anger, fighting, or shouting — it's prayer. Men are called to lead with faith, humility, and hands raised to God, becoming witnesses of Christ's peace in a broken world.

In this week's ALIVE reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer connects the famous Stanford Marshmallow Test with the Gospel parable of the rich man and Lazarus. Our culture often chases instant gratification — comfort, pleasure, and quick fixes. But Jesus reminds us that true fulfillment comes through patience, sacrifice, and the hope of eternal life.

Fr. Jonathan Meyer shares his reflections after watching the powerful new film Triumph of the Heart, which brings to life the heroic sacrifice of St. Maximilian Kolbe.   This moving review explores the artistry of the film, its portrayal of Kolbe's final 14 days in Auschwitz, and the deeper spiritual truths it invites us to consider — suffering, sacrifice, forgiveness, fraternity, and triumph in Christ.  

In this week's ALIVE reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer dives into the Gospel reminder: “You cannot serve two masters.”   Each of us has to answer the powerful question: Who am I serving? Is it Christ… or the things that steal my time, joy, and energy?   Fr. Meyer invites us to reject sin, lies, and the world — and instead choose the one true Master who loves us first: Jesus Christ.  

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's tragic death, Fr. Meyer reflects on his witness to truth and courage in a world filled with confusion and violence. Like John the Baptist and the martyrs before him, Charlie spoke boldly about life, marriage, and the dignity of every human person — and he paid the ultimate price.   This homily calls us as Catholics to engage the world not with silence or fear, but with love rooted in truth, compassion, and conviction. We are reminded of Jesus' words: “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:27–28).  

Jesus tells us: “Anyone who does not renounce all of his possessions cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:33) That can sound overwhelming — but what if we started with just one possession?   In this homily, Fr. Meyer challenges us to look at our phones not as harmless tools, but as devices that can easily enslave us if left unchecked. Drawing from the newly canonized St. Carlo Acutis, who used technology wisely while living a life rooted in the Eucharist, we're invited to ask: Do I own my phone, or does it own me?  

On the anniversary of September 11th, Fr. Hollowell reflects on the desire many young people feel to respond to evil and tragedy — whether through military service, police, firefighting, or priesthood. The Catholic Church honors the dignity of those who lay down their lives to protect others, while also reminding us to pray even for our enemies.   This homily offers a Catholic response to cultural voices like Charlie Kirk, grounding the conversation in the Gospel call to sacrifice, service, and discernment of God's will.  

At a gas station encounter, a young man challenged Fr. Meyer with the words of Jesus: “Call no one on earth your father.” What does this really mean?   In this homily, we explore how Scripture must be understood in context, why St. Paul himself refers to being a spiritual father, and how there is a difference between simply having a title and truly living it.   We are all called “Christian” by baptism—but do we live as disciples of Jesus Christ? God isn't finished with us yet. We can still grow into the fathers, mothers, godparents, friends, and saints He calls us to be.  

This week on Alive, we pause to celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (Sept 14). Fr. Meyer shares the powerful story of St. Helen discovering the true cross in 326 AD and reminds us why Christians glorify a symbol of suffering: because the cross only has meaning in light of the empty tomb.   Your cross, your suffering, your trials — they are real, they hurt, but they are never the end of the story. Because of the Resurrection, every cross carries hope and redemption.  

During the Bright Parade, a conversation with non-Catholic preachers led to an important question: Does Jesus really say we don't need to do anything because He's already done it all?   In this homily, we explore what Scripture actually teaches about salvation, free will, and striving to enter through the narrow gate. St. Paul reminds us that following Christ is like running a race—something that requires effort, perseverance, and cooperation with God's grace.   The Catholic Church, universal and welcoming from east to west and north to south, invites everyone to this great adventure: responding daily to God's grace and proclaiming the Good News to the whole world.  

International Catholic speaker and musician Steve Angrisano shares a powerful message from the Intense Youth Conference. In this inspiring talk, Steve reminds us how to listen for God's voice even in the midst of life's noise, distractions, and lies.   ✝️ You'll hear about: Recognizing God's voice above the noise of the world The grace of confession and God's mercy Building holy friendships that lead us closer to Jesus Choosing daily prayer, even just a few minutes Living a life of faith one step at a time   Steve's stories, music, and humor encourage us to trust God's plan and walk in friendship with Christ.  

Fr. Meyer shares his year-long challenge of running a 5K every day—adding up to 1,131 miles, or 43 marathons—and the lessons it taught him about discipline, commitment, and perseverance.   In this Sunday's readings, we are reminded to “persevere in running the race that lies before you.” Life, marriage, family, and faith all require daily recommitment—even when it's difficult, inconvenient, or painful.   Just like running, following Christ isn't about one big moment—it's about the small daily steps, the willingness to sacrifice, and the perseverance to keep going. And we don't do it alone—we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who encourage us along the way.  

In this Sunday's Gospel (Luke 14), Jesus tells us: “Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.”   Fr. Jonathan Meyer challenges us to name our particular cross—whether it's addiction, gossip, sloth, low self-esteem, illness, financial struggles, or broken relationships—and to carry it with the help of Christ and others .   We cannot carry our crosses alone. Even Jesus was helped by Simon of Cyrene. We need friends, spiritual directors, counselors, and most of all the Lord to walk with us.  

In this Sunday's homily, Fr. Meyer reflects on one of the most difficult topics to preach about: money. Jesus spoke about it often—because how we use our resources reveals what (and who) we truly love.   But this message goes deeper than finances. Inheritance, possessions, and even our spiritual treasures can be hoarded rather than shared. God doesn't want our money—He wants our hearts. And He calls us not just to tithe, but to live generously, freely, and faithfully, giving back from all He has entrusted to us.  

We live in a world that feels more divided than ever. Every issue seems split down the middle—until we discover what I call 100% issues: causes that no one can argue against. What if the Church set its sights on ending childhood hunger in America? What if Christians became known, once again, for living lives of staggering generosity? In this talk, I share how generosity can transform not only the Church but also the culture around us. You'll hear stories of priests, parishes, and ordinary people who discovered the freedom of trusting God more than money and the joy of giving beyond expectations. Generosity is not just about money—it's about time, encouragement, praise, and creativity. When we grow in generosity, we ignite the world with hope and faith.

Welcome to ALIVE! with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. This week, on the 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Gospel challenges us to rediscover the simple but powerful act of hospitality. When was the last time you invited someone into your home for a meal—or were invited yourself? Sharing food and conversation is not just social, it's deeply spiritual. Jesus calls us to open our doors not just to friends and family, but especially to the poor, the forgotten, and those who may feel alone. Fr. Meyer reflects on the Gospel and his own memories to encourage us to reclaim the dinner table as a place of faith, fellowship, and evangelization.

This week on Alive, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the Gospel for the 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time (Luke 13).   At first glance, today's passage is tough — Jesus warns that the way to heaven is a narrow gate and that not everyone who calls on His name will enter. Yet hidden in this challenge is a message of good news: people will come from the north and south, east and west, to recline at the table of the Kingdom of God.   Fr. Meyer unpacks three key lessons from this Gospel: We must walk the narrow way — we can't live however we please and expect heaven. Our actions matter — faith and deeds go hand in hand. We are called to be servants, putting others before ourselves, for “the last will be first and the first will be last.”   The narrow way is not a burden — it is the road to peace, joy, and eternal life.   ✝️ Take time this week to reflect on this Gospel and discuss the questions below with a friend. Together, let's walk the narrow path that leads to Christ and His Kingdom.

What does it mean to live as the man God created you to be? In this powerful E6 Catholic Men's Conference talk, Matthew Kelly challenges men to rise above passivity, reclaim their God-given identity, and live with courage, clarity, and wholehearted faith.   With practical wisdom and inspiring stories, Matthew reveals how to: Recognize your unique mission in God's plan Live with the confidence of a son of the King Break free from half-measures and embrace a life of purpose Awaken the lion-hearted strength God has placed within you   Whether you're seeking to reignite your faith, strengthen your family, or stand boldly in today's culture, this talk will inspire you to take the next step toward becoming the best version of yourself.  

What do you do when someone you love has walked away from the Catholic faith? In this homily for the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Luke 12:49-53), Fr. Jonathan Meyer shares how we can hold both the reality of division and the hope of Christ's desire for unity.   You are not alone. The Lord is with you. And He may be calling you to be the answer to someone else's prayer for a loved one's return.  

In this week's homily, we're challenged to reflect on a powerful question: “How much am I giving—and how much is God calling me to give?”   Fr. shares his personal journey of learning Gospel poverty, starting with his parents' simple family tradition of the “poor kid's jar,” and growing into a life of sacrificial generosity.   Drawing from the parable of the man who built bigger barns (Luke 12), the story of Zacchaeus, and real-life mission experiences in Haiti, this message invites us to step out of a culture of greed and into the freedom of giving.  

On this 19th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Fr. Meyer reflects on the words of Jesus in Luke 12 and a powerful insight from the life of St. Catherine of Siena: “She lived as if it was always Lent.”   We're good at preparing during Advent and Lent—but how do we live when the season of preparation ends? What if the practices that help us grow during those times—confession, daily Mass, prayer, sacrifice—are meant for every season?   This week's Alive invites us to carry the graces of preparation into daily life, so we can live with greater freedom, peace, and joy—always ready, always alive in Christ.  

Every time we go to Mass, we hear the words: “This is my body, given up for you.” But what does that mean for us—in our marriages, our families, and our daily choices?   In this powerful homily, given during Natural Family Planning Awareness Week and on World Day for Grandparents, we reflect on the bold witness of St. Pope Paul VI in Humanae Vitae, the beauty and challenge of living God's plan for love, and how surrendering our bodies in love—whether in parenting, grandparenting, marriage, or spiritual sacrifice—mirrors Christ's gift to us in the Eucharist.   We also explore: Why the Church continues to teach openness to life The pain and witness of infertility How grandparents (like Saints Joachim and Anne) shape the faith of future generations Why “witnesses” are more powerful than words   Whether you're a parent, grandparent, single, married, or longing for children, this message reminds us all: we are called to give ourselves in love, just as Jesus gave Himself for us.  

Did you know that on July 30, 1956, “In God We Trust” was officially declared the motto of the United States? While it's printed on our coins and paper bills, most of us rarely handle cash these days. But what if there were a simple way to keep this powerful reminder visible in your daily life?   In this video, I share a small but meaningful challenge: grab a Sharpie and write In God We Trust on your debit or credit card. Every time you tap, swipe, or insert your card, you're not only reminding yourself—but also the world—where your trust lies.   Let's live out our faith in the little moments. Jesus, I trust in You.   #InGodWeTrust #FaithInAction #CatholicChallenge #ChristianWitness #July30 #TrustInGod

“What are you storing things up for?” In this week's Alive reflection for the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr. Jonathan Meyer challenges us to take a closer look at our attachment to material and spiritual possessions—through the lens of Luke 12:13–21.   Drawing inspiration from the quiet witness of Fr. Hallowell and the parable of the rich fool, Fr. Meyer invites us to ask:

What if the most powerful way to change the world… is to stop and be still?   In this week's homily for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr. Meyer reflects on the Gospel of Martha and Mary—and shares a personal story that forever changed his understanding of real work. From a freezing night in Minnesota to the spiritual depths of Carmelite prayer, Fr. Meyer invites us to discover what it truly means to choose “the better part.”   At the heart of this message is an invitation:

Do you ever feel like you're not praying “the right way”? You're not alone.   Even the disciples asked Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray.” In this week's ALIVE reflection for the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Luke 11:1–13), Fr. Jonathan Meyer explores the timeless longing to grow in prayer — and the very real struggles that come with it.   Whether you're new to prayer, stuck in a rut, or yearning for deeper intimacy with God, this reflection will remind you that the struggle is part of the journey — and Jesus welcomes it.  

In this powerful reflection, we hear a personal testimony of healing at Lourdes and a deeper understanding of St. Paul's words: “I fill up in my body what is lacking in the sufferings of Christ.”   What could possibly be lacking in Christ's perfect sacrifice? Nothing—except our participation. Through our own suffering, united to His, we are invited into His saving mission.   This talk challenges us to see every hardship as an opportunity to offer it up for others, to sit at the foot of the Cross, and to recognize the beauty of choosing the better part—being present at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.  

In this powerful reflection, we hear the deeper meaning behind the parable of the Good Samaritan. What if Jesus is the Good Samaritan—and the inn is the Catholic Church?   Fr. Hollowell shares how the Church is the place of healing and restoration for the wounded, and how you are called to help bring others to this place of mercy, especially those who are searching, broken, or longing for truth.   Who in your life is waiting for someone to open the door?  

In this week's Sunday Homily prep, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the Gospel of Luke 10:38–42 — the timeless story of Martha and Mary.   What does it really mean to “choose the better part”? Fr. Meyer shares powerful insights on silence, contemplative prayer, and the need to simply be with Jesus — just as Mary did.  

As we prepare for America's 250th birthday in 2026, it's time to ask: Who is telling our history—and what is it doing to our future? In this powerful homily, Fr. Meyer unpacks the forgotten faith behind the founding of the United States—from the prayers of the Continental Congress to the Christian convictions of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. You'll hear surprising facts about our founding fathers, our motto “In God We Trust,” and why reclaiming our religious heritage is key to reclaiming our national identity.

Even the greatest evangelist in Church history made mistakes. In this reflection, we look at the moment St. Paul failed to preach Jesus in Athens—and how that failure shaped his entire mission going forward.   Fr. Hollowell unpacks the two powerful lessons Paul learned after the philosophers of Athens rejected his message: Never be afraid to say the name of Jesus. Never hide the truth about the Cross.   We live in a world that needs to hear the name of Jesus and understand that suffering has meaning. Like St. Paul, we are all called to preach Christ crucified, with boldness and love.  

On the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the lives of two great martyrs, the beauty of the priesthood, and the unexpected ways God forms us—through tension, humility, and love.   This isn't just a feast day homily. It's a deeply personal testimony of 22 years of priesthood. Fr. Meyer opens his heart to share:  

On the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, we reflect on an unlikely partnership between two giants of the Church—very different men, both chosen by God, learning to serve in a hierarchy that didn't always make sense.   Fr. Bolick brings that tension into our own lives with a touching and vulnerable story about his father, leadership, and the humility it takes to receive help from those who shouldn't have to give it.  

In this week's ALIVE reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer breaks open the well-known Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37). We've all heard the story—but are we truly living it?   Jesus challenges us to stop crossing to the other side of the road and start stepping into the mess of others' lives with compassion. From hospitals to laws, the legacy of the Good Samaritan is everywhere… but the call is personal.  

Welcome to ALIVE, a weekly Gospel reflection with Fr. Jonathan Meyer! This week's message dives into Luke 10:1–12, 17–20, where Jesus says: “The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few.”   Fr. Meyer reminds us that every parish has the potential for greatness—but it starts with each of us answering the call. Whether you're a priest, teacher, musician, neighbor, or friend, YOU are a laborer in God's abundant harvest.  

In this special ALIVE episode, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the powerful feast of Saints Peter and Paul—celebrated on the weekend of his very first Mass, 22 years ago! Through two gospel readings (John 21 and Matthew 16), we're challenged to examine what we love—and whether our lives show it—and to never give ourselves to anything less than the truth.   From Peter's call to love through action to Christ's promise to build His Church on solid rock, this episode invites us to go deeper in faith, love, and fidelity to Jesus.  

Welcome to ALIVE, a Gospel reflection series with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. This week we celebrate Corpus Christi Sunday — the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ.   Today's Gospel (Luke 9:11–17) reminds us of Jesus' call: “Give them some food yourselves.” But what food? Not just earthly bread — Christ calls us to bring others to the Eucharist, the greatest gift of all: His Body and Blood.   Fr. Meyer challenges us to reflect on how we can spiritually feed others by inviting them back to Mass, to Adoration, and to a deeper relationship with Jesus.  

Welcome to Alive, our weekly Sunday Gospel reflection series with Fr. Jonathan Meyer! In this episode—celebrating the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity—Fr. Meyer invites us to embrace the “Age of the Spirit.” He reflects on John 16:12-13 (“The Spirit of truth…will guide you to all truth”), shares a powerful personal story of God's promptings in adoration, and shows how three simple words—“Come Holy Spirit”—can transform our everyday lives.

Welcome to the final Rise Up video—Pentecost Sunday! Fr. Jonathan Meyer thanks you for pressing play all 96 days, walks us through the coming of the Holy Spirit, and challenges us to root out division in our hearts, families, and communities. Drawing on the image of the apostles in the upper room (and even a relic of the Twelve!), he contrasts Pentecost's unity with the separation at Babel. In a year of unrest, we're reminded that only the Spirit can heal the divisions that plague us.

Join Fr. Hollowell as he marks 16 years of priesthood with a deeply personal homily straight from his favorite altar—our very own St. Monica/St. Martin campus. In this heartfelt reflection, he:

Join Fr. Jonathan Meyer on our second-to-last day of prayer as we draw near the great feast of Pentecost. In this Rise Up reflection, Fr. Meyer asks, “Where do you go to rest?” He points us to the Gospel image of John, the “beloved disciple,” leaning his head on Jesus' chest—and shares the story of young Francesco of Fatima, who spent entire days resting at the tabernacle. In a hectic world, we're invited to slow down, find a chapel (or a quiet corner at home), and experience the peace that only Christ can give.

Join Fr. Jonathan Meyer for today's Rise Up reflection as we journey toward Pentecost. In this video, Fr. Meyer unpacks John 21—where Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?”—and shows how Peter's willing “Yes” leads him to lay down his life for Christ. As we approach the coming of the Holy Spirit, Fr. Meyer challenges us: Are you willing to die to self, take up your cross daily, and serve God in the ordinary moments of life?

In today's homily, Fr. Hollowell walks us through two powerful lessons: first, from Acts, where the apostles ask, “When will You come back?” Jesus reminds us that the day of His return is hidden, not to keep us anxious, but to teach us to trust Him every moment of our lives. Rather than only going to confession the day before His coming, we're invited to live now in the joy and peace that come from feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and serving others—because following Jesus is never a burden, but a path to real, present happiness. Next, Fr. Hollowell explores the Letter to the Hebrews: Yes, Christ offered one perfect sacrifice on Calvary, but when we celebrate Mass, we're mystically transported back to that same sacrifice—and simultaneously celebrate His resurrection and ascension. It's not a re-crucifixion but a sacred making-present of what Christ accomplished “once for all.” Every Mass is an opportunity to stand at the foot of the cross and, in the same moment, rejoice in the empty tomb. Join us this Sunday as we learn how trusting Jesus now—through our works of mercy and participation in the Eucharist—brings us true peace today, even as we await His glorious return.

Join Fr. Jonathan Meyer for today's Rise Up reflection as we draw closer to the glorious feast of Pentecost. In this video, Fr. Meyer walks us through a powerful Gospel passage and invites us to open our hearts to the perfect, Trinitarian love of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Learn why silent prayer and radical availability are essential if we truly want Christ's love—and the Holy Spirit—to dwell within us.

Hi, I'm Father Jonathan Meyer. Back on September 4th—my birthday—I made a wild commitment: to run a 5K every single day for an entire year. I call it “48 Strong,” and today I'm checking in at the nine-month mark. In this video, I share: Why I started: I wanted to push myself physically, mentally, and spiritually—no treadmills allowed, rain or shine (or frostbite!). Early struggles & milestones: Frostbitten ankles, subzero runs, and how I got past the “I don't want to link my shoes” moments. Physical wins: I've lost 10 pounds (from about 194 to the low 180s) and sleep better than ever. Mental & spiritual growth: Running gives me daily time to pray, process, and offer each 5K as a sacrifice for someone else—turning pain into purpose. Community & creation: How running with friends keeps me accountable, and why experiencing God's world each day (from Arkansas to France) has been a blessing. I've only skipped two runs (both times I was down with a virus), and I've learned that the hardest part is simply taking that first step. If you're inspired to make a commitment—whether it's a half-mile walk or your own year-long goal—this video will encourage you to start, stay consistent, and see how your body, mind, and spirit transform.

Have you ever felt like you just don't fit in? Fr. Jonathan Meyer shares a powerful personal reflection and reminds us of Jesus' words: “They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world.” When you feel out of place, it may be because you're living the truth, set apart for something greater. You were made for more. You were made for holiness. Let the Holy Spirit remind you that you belong to God.