All Saints Parish - Sunday Homilies Podcast

Have you ever been treated badly for doing the right thing? In today's Rise Up reflection, Fr. Meyer reminds us that rejection is not new for followers of Jesus. In today's Gospel, people are so angry with Jesus that they try to throw Him off a cliff. Later, He will be mocked, scourged, and crucified.   Throughout history, the saints and martyrs have suffered for living the truth of the Gospel. If you've ever been rejected, misunderstood, or treated poorly because of your faith—you're not alone. Today is a new day. A new week. A chance to recommit to the life God is calling you to live. Keep going. Be the saint God created you to be.

Rise Up – Day 19   In today's Gospel for the Third Sunday of Lent, we hear the powerful story of the woman at the well.   After encountering Jesus, she runs back to the town and says:   “He told me everything I have done.”   Jesus saw her past. He saw her sins. He saw the things she tried to hide.   And yet she leaves that encounter filled with joy — because she realizes something incredible:   She is still loved.   Sometimes the things we try hardest to hide are the very things Jesus already sees. And instead of rejecting us, He meets us with mercy.   Today, take a moment to rest in this truth:   God sees you. God knows you. God loves you.   You are not alone.   Sign up to receive the daily Rise Up reflections by texting rise26 to 84576.   #RiseUp #Lent #Catholic #DailyGospel #WomanAtTheWell #Confession

In today's Gospel we hear the story of the Prodigal Son—but what if the real question is not which son we are… but whether we can become like the Father.   The father in the story was deeply wounded. His son essentially wished him dead and walked away from the family. Yet the father never stopped hoping, never stopped waiting, and when his son returned, he ran to meet him with mercy.   Many of us have experienced hurt, division, or broken relationships in our families. Today's reflection invites us to ask a difficult question:   Do we forgive like the Father? Do we keep hope alive for those who have walked away?   God's mercy never gives up on us. Today, let's ask for the grace to imitate that same mercy in our own lives.    God has a plan for you. Keep your head up. Keep persevering. Be a saint.  

Have you ever felt rejected? From a job… A relationship… A team… Even your own family? Rejection can leave deep wounds in our hearts. But the Gospel reminds us of a powerful truth: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” Your past does not define you. Your worst day does not define you. You are a son or daughter of God, loved and chosen by Him. Watch today's reflection in Rise Up – Day 17 and remember who you truly are. #RiseUp #Lent #Catholic #ChildOfGod #Faith #CatholicFaith #DailyGospel #ChristianHope

What are you procrastinating about? Is it prayer? Daily Mass? Calling someone you need to forgive? Taking the step you know God is asking of you? In today's Gospel reflection, Father Meyer challenges us to stop putting off the things that lead us closer to God. God gives the grace. We just have to cooperate. Maybe today is the day to stop waiting and start living the life God is calling you to. Watch today's Rise Up – Day 16 reflection and take the next step. #RiseUp #Lent #Catholic #DailyGospel #CatholicFaith #ChristianLiving #BeASaint #CatholicYouTube

Welcome to Rise Up – Day 15. In today's Gospel, Jesus asks James and John a powerful question: “Can you drink the chalice that I will drink?” At the time, they had no idea what He meant. But that chalice would become the chalice of the Mass—the sacrifice of Christ poured out for the salvation of the world. Every time we attend Mass, we are invited to enter into that same mystery: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The question remains for us today: Can we drink the chalice? Watch today's reflection and allow the Lord to draw you deeper into the mystery of the Eucharist. #RiseUp #Catholic #DailyGospel #TheMass #Eucharist #CatholicFaith #CatholicYouTube

Do your socks match? I know a young adult who intentionally wears mismatched socks. Why? He's training himself in humility. He wants to learn how to handle ridicule and small humiliations — because he knows bigger ones will come. In today's Gospel we hear: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Most of us run from humiliation. We hide from it. We avoid it. But what if small moments of humility are training for sainthood? Rise Up is a 90-day daily reflection series from Ash Wednesday through the Easter season — helping you grow in focus, friendship, and fellowship. Subscribe and walk with us.  Text rise26 to 84576.  #RiseUp #Lent #Humility #Catholic #DailyReflection #BeASaint

How big is your measuring cup? Jesus says: “The measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.” What's your measuring cup when it comes to generosity? Gratitude? Encouragement? You can't out-give God. When you are generous, blessings overflow — packed down, shaken together, and running over. This isn't prosperity gospel. It's simply the truth of the Gospel. Today, make your measuring cup bigger. Be generous. Be kind. Build people up. And get ready… it's going to overflow. Rise Up is a 90-day daily reflection series from Ash Wednesday through Easter to help you grow in focus, friendship, and fellowship. Subscribe and walk through Lent with us. #RiseUp #Lent #Catholic #Generosity #Gratitude #DailyReflection #Overflow ⸻

Back on Ash Wednesday, you had a desire in your heart. You wanted to change. You wanted to grow. You wanted to become a saint. Now we're at the Second Sunday of Lent — the Transfiguration. This is your check-in. Are you being changed? Are you moving in the right direction? Are you becoming who God is calling you to be? Today isn't about pressure. It's about reflection. It's about letting Jesus transfigure your heart. Take time to rest. Pray. Breathe. Reflect. Rise Up is a 90-day daily reflection series from Ash Wednesday through the Easter season to help you focus, walk with friends, and grow in fellowship.

“If you greet your brothers and sisters only, what is unusual about that?” Today Jesus challenges us to step outside our comfort zones. Don't just greet your friends. Don't just love the people who are easy to love. Go out and greet people today. Look them in the eye. Preach the Gospel — and if necessary, use words. Let's change the world one person at a time. Rise Up – Day 11 is here.

When was the last time you went to confession?   In today's Gospel, Jesus makes something very clear: before we approach the altar, we are called to reconciliation. Confession and the Eucharist belong together.   Lent is the perfect time to reflect, repent, and return to the Lord.   It's okay to go to Mass and not receive Holy Communion — but let's not stay away from confession.   Let's make Lent amazing by repenting of our sins.   Rise Up – Day 10 is here.  

Are you a do-gooder?   Jesus tells us: “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.”   It's easy to say we believe. But belief without action isn't what Jesus asked for.   Our faith demands a response. Scripture demands a response. Jesus demands a response.   Rise Up – Day 9 challenges us to stop just saying we believe… and start living it.   Happy Lent.   #RiseUp #Lent #Catholic #ChristianLiving #DoGood #FaithInAction #BeASaint #DailyReflection

Rise Up – Day 8 Are you waiting for a sign? In today's reflection, Father Meyer reminds us that our faith isn't built on symbols, myths, or vague spiritual feelings. Jesus is not just a sign — He is real. He lived. He died. He rose again. This Lenten season is an invitation to open our eyes to the reality in front of us — the reality of Christ, the people around us, and the grace present in this very moment. Lord, open my eyes. Watch today's reflection and share it with someone who might be waiting for a sign. #RiseUp #Lent #Catholic #DailyReflection #Faith #Jesus #Conversion #ChristianLiving

Instant gratification feels good… but forgiveness sets you free.   In today's Rise Up reflection, we face one of the hardest questions of Lent:   Who do you need to forgive?   Jesus tells us clearly: “If you forgive others… your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive… neither will your Father forgive you.”   We can't receive mercy while refusing to give it.   Let today be a day of freedom. Let the bitterness go. Let the anger go. Forgive those who have hurt you.   Rise Up is a 90-day daily Gospel reflection for Lent and Easter focused on focus, friends, and fellowship.   Text “riseup” to 84576 to receive the daily reflection by text or email.   #RiseUpSeries #LentReflection #Catholic #Forgiveness #ChristianLiving #DailyGospel #FaithJourney #LetGo #Mercy #CatholicYouTube

Have you ever stopped to think that every act of kindness — or impatience — is done to Jesus Himself?   In Rise Up – Day 6, Father Meyer reflects on the powerful words from Matthew 25: “You did it to me.”   Through the simple yet profound Five Finger Prayer taught by Mother Teresa, and the powerful witness of St. Polycarp, we're reminded that the Eucharist transforms us. When we receive Christ, we are called to become Christ for others.   What you do to the least… you do to Him.   Let's love boldly. Let's love intentionally. Let's love the Eucharist.   #RiseUp #DailyReflection #CatholicFaith #Eucharist #StPolycarp #LentJourney #BeSaints #CatholicYouTube #FaithInAction

You were fired up on Ash Wednesday. You had a plan. You were ready to “crush Lent.”   But now it's the First Sunday of Lent…   How are you doing?   In today's Rise Up reflection, we look at Jesus being tempted in the desert — and what that means for you four days into your Lenten commitment.   Because of your baptism, you are not alone. Because of your baptism, you have nothing to fear. Even in the desert.   Rise Up is a daily Gospel reflection for Lent and Easter. Text “riseup” to 84576 to receive it by text or email.   #RiseUp #Catholic #Lent #FirstSundayOfLent #GospelReflection #CatholicYouTube #BeNotAfraid

Are you sick?   Jesus says, “Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do.” The question is — do we recognize our need for Him?   If we don't admit we're not where God wants us to be yet, we won't seek healing. We won't seek growth. We won't seek repentance.   The good news? God isn't done with us.   Today is another chance to grow. Another chance to forgive. Another chance to love better than yesterday.   Let's pray for healing in our Church. Let's pray for holiness among priests. Let's pray for revival.   Rise Up is a daily reflection journey through Lent and Easter focused on the Gospel, friendship, and real transformation.  

Is Friday abstinence enough? Or are we missing the point of fasting altogether?   Jesus says when He is taken away, His disciples will fast. But what does that really mean for us today?   On this first Friday of Lent, let's talk about delayed gratification, self-denial, and the fastest way to become a saint.   Rise Up – Day 3   #RiseUp #Lent #Catholic #CatholicFaith #Fasting #FirstFriday #BecomingASaint #SelfDenial #DelayedGratification #FatherMeyer

Day 2 of Lent.   Jesus says, “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.”   But denial is hard. And instant gratification is easy.   If you've ever struggled to keep your Lenten commitments… this reflection is for you.   Spiritual transformation doesn't come from comfort. It comes from delayed gratification, daily discipline, and accountability.   Are you ready to deny yourself — not just once — but daily?  

Ash Wednesday is a day filled with possibility. Today, the world walks around marked with ashes — repentant, desiring change, longing to become who God created us to be. But most of us don't actually pray for transformation. We pray for small adjustments. In Day 1 of Rise Up, Fr. Jonathan challenges you to stop asking for minor improvements and start surrendering everything. What righteous deeds will you commit to during these 40 days? What in your life needs to change — not be tweaked — but transformed? This journey doesn't end at Easter Sunday. We will walk together through: • 46 days of Lent • 50 days of Easter • All the way to Pentecost 95 days of daily encouragement, challenge, and accountability. Let's rise up. ⸻

This reflection comes from our weekly Alive series, where we gather around the Gospel and let it speak into real life. Over Lent and Easter, Alive will pause as we enter into something even deeper.   Beginning Ash Wednesday, we'll be sharing Rise Up — a daily Gospel reflection journey that runs through Pentecost. It's about moving from rules to freedom, from white-knuckling faith to living it with grace.   How to sign up for Rise Up:

In this powerful retreat talk, Fr. Meyer invites us to rediscover our deepest identity — not based on performance, failure, or fear, but on the unshakable truth that God loved us first.   Drawing from the Nativity, Scripture, Marian devotion, and years of pastoral and youth ministry experience, Fr. Meyer reflects on what it means to know not only who we are, but whose we are: beloved daughters of God. He reminds us that our identity is rooted in God's initiative — a love freely given, not earned.   Through prayer, reflection, and a guided renunciation of lies, this talk gently leads us to release shame, fear, anxiety, and false beliefs, and to proclaim the truth of who we are in Christ: Loved Wanted Forgiven Protected Never abandoned   This talk is especially meaningful for anyone who struggles with self-worth, anxiety, or trusting God's love, and for those longing for deeper interior healing and peace.   “Your identity is rooted in the fact that God loved you first.”   May this reflection help you rest more fully in the truth of who you are — and who God is for you.

Welcome to a bonus episode of ALIVE as we prepare to celebrate Candlemas, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord.   This beautiful feast marks the 40th day of Christmas, when Mary and Joseph bring Jesus—the Light of the world—into the Temple. In this reflection, Father Jonathan Blyer explains why we bless and carry candles, why this liturgy is so powerful, and how Candlemas invites us to reflect on the light Christ brings into our own lives.   We reflect on: The blessing and procession of candles Jesus as the Light entering the darkness The Presentation in the Temple (the Fourth Joyful Mystery) Simeon's canticle and the prophetess Anna The role of candles in prayer, both at church and at home   You're also encouraged to bring candles from home to Mass to be blessed, and to consider how candlelight might deepen your personal and family prayer life.   ✨ When was the last time you lit a candle and prayed?   Discussion questions are included below. We're glad you're here. Be a saint.

Adolf Hitler was baptized Catholic — but baptism alone does not guarantee holiness or salvation. In this homily, Fr. John Hollowell reflects on the meaning of baptism, original sin, and the ongoing spiritual battle each of us faces after receiving the grace of the sacraments. Drawing on powerful analogies from hiking and mountaineering, Fr. Hollowell explains why baptism is the beginning of the Christian adventure, not the end. Baptism makes us adopted sons and daughters of God and temples of the Holy Spirit — gifts even Adam and Eve did not possess. Yet, as the Catechism teaches, the consequences of sin remain, and we are still called to strive, cooperate with grace, and put our God-given talents to work. This homily challenges us to avoid complacency, to take our faith seriously, and to find joy, peace, and purpose in striving for holiness through the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and Confession.

Fr. Vincent Lampert, longtime exorcist for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, delivers a powerful talk at the Intense Youth Conference 2025. Drawing from nearly two decades of experience in spiritual warfare, Fr. Lampert reveals how the devil works to separate us from God, the dangers of the occult and false freedoms, and the hope we find in Christ through prayer, the sacraments, and God's mercy.   This talk challenges us to “wake up” spiritually, root out anything that is contrary to Christ, and rediscover our true freedom in obedience to God.  

In this ALIVE reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time, Father Jonathan Meyer dives into one of the most challenging and misunderstood Beatitudes: “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.” What does it mean to truly see God — not just in creation, but in the human person? Drawing from Theology of the Body and real pastoral experience, Father Meyer invites us to move beyond lust and temptation toward purity of heart, where beauty leads us to gratitude, reverence, and compassion. Instead of objectifying others, we're called to recognize their dignity and see God living and breathing in them. This reflection also challenges us to respond with mercy and love, especially toward those who may not yet understand their own worth.

Welcome to ALIVE, our weekend Gospel preparation series.   In this reflection, Father Jonathan Meyer walks with us through Matthew 4:12–23, the Call of the Apostles, reminding us that God is not distant — He is actively calling each of us right now.   God calls us to prayer, to love, to repentance, to service, and sometimes to bold commitment. Too often we hesitate, overthink, or wait for the “perfect time.” But Jesus' invitation is simple: “Come after me.” And the response is just as simple — trust and follow.   Whether God is calling you to deeper faith, ministry, marriage, religious life, or to finally take that step you've been putting off, this reflection invites you to drop your nets and follow.  

The most important piece of paper in your life isn't your diploma or your résumé — it's your baptismal certificate. This Sunday homily from January 11, 2026, reflects on the Gospel proclamation spoken over Jesus and spoken over each of us in baptism: “You are my beloved. With you I am well pleased.” Our identity is not earned. It is received. It was purchased at the cost of Christ's death, and it defines who we are and how we are called to live. May we ask for the grace to live the vocation won for us through baptism and the cross of Jesus Christ. ⸻

Alive is our weekly Sunday preparation. In this episode, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the Gospel for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (John 1:29–34) and the powerful words we hear at every Mass: “Behold the Lamb of God.” Why does John the Baptist choose this title for Jesus? This reflection weaves together:  • Bethlehem as the House of Bread  • Jesus laid in a manger — a feeding trough  • The shepherds who raised lambs for temple sacrifice  • And the fulfillment of it all in the Eucharist From the unblemished lambs of the Temple, to the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world, this Gospel reveals that Jesus is not a symbol — He is the reality. As priests lift up the Eucharist at Mass, they echo the words of John the Baptist and the faith of the Bethlehem shepherds, holding not a sacrifice that points forward, but the Lamb who fulfills every promise.

Welcome to ALIVE, our Sunday Gospel preparation series with Fr. Meyer.   ALIVE follows the Sunday Gospel each week and is designed to help you slow down, reflect, and truly encounter Christ through Scripture. Each reflection is paired with discussion questions to help spark meaningful conversation and prayer.   This week's Gospel (Matthew 3:13–17) brings us to the Baptism of the Lord, where the Father proclaims:   “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”   In this reflection, Fr. Meyer invites us to reflect on the beauty of the Trinity — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — and to hear those same words spoken over us through our own baptism. You are not defined by your worst moments or your struggles. You are God's beloved son. You are God's beloved daughter.   We encourage you to journey through ALIVE with at least one other person — a spouse, friend, neighbor, or small group — and to walk together in faith each week.  

On the Feast of the Epiphany, we're invited to ask a deeper question: Will you allow yourself to be taken, broken, and given? In today's Peace on Earth reflection, we look at the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish — a profoundly Eucharistic moment where Jesus: takes, gives thanks, breaks, and gives. This isn't just about bread. It's about you. Jesus wants to take you — to delight in you. He wants to give thanks for you. And yes, He may allow you to be broken… so that you can be given to the world. This is how love multiplies. This is how vocations are lived. This is how lives are transformed. As the Christmas season draws to a close, may we surrender again and trust that God can do more with our “yes” than we could ever imagine. May there be peace on earth — and peace in your heart. Amen.   #PeaceOnEarth #Epiphany

As we reach the 12th Day of Christmas, the question isn't how much we celebrated — it's whether we've changed. This Peace on Earth reflection looks back to the beginning of Advent and asks: Have prayer, repentance, and time with the Lord actually shaped us? Or are we the same today as we were on November 30? Our faith is full of “re” words: repent, return, renew, rejoice Each one is an invitation to begin again. If you've changed — praise God. If you haven't — today is still a beautiful day to return. As we prepare to celebrate Epiphany, may we present our hearts honestly to the Lord and allow Him to keep transforming us. Happy 12th Day of Christmas.   #PeaceOnEarth #AdventReflection #ChristmasSeason #12DaysofChristmas

On the Feast of the Epiphany, we remember the gifts brought to Jesus — gold, frankincense, and myrrh. But the bigger question is this: What three gifts are you offering the Lord? In this Peace on Earth reflection, Father Jonathan Meyer invites us to look honestly at time, talent, and treasure:  • Do we give God our time — even a few minutes a day?  • Do we offer our talents for the good of others and the Church?  • Are we generous with our treasure, trusting God with our hearts? Epiphany isn't just about what the Magi gave long ago — it's about what we choose to give now. May this Christmas season help us offer meaningful gifts from the heart. Happy 11th Day of Christmas. Amen.   #PeaceOnEarth #Epiphany #CatholicReflection

Do you realize that John the Baptist speaks to us at every single Mass? When the priest lifts up the Eucharist and proclaims, “Behold the Lamb of God,” those words are straight from John 1:29. In that moment, John the Baptist introduces Jesus to us just as he once did at the Jordan River — pointing to Him as the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. The Mass is overflowing with Sacred Scripture: • John the Baptist • John the Evangelist • The Book of Revelation • The Passover Lamb • The Wedding Supper of the Lamb All woven together in one sacred moment. This reflection, on the 10th day of Christmas, invites us to listen more closely at Mass — to hear Scripture come alive, and to encounter Jesus truly present in the Eucharist. If you've ever wondered how deeply biblical the Mass really is, this is for you. Let's get to Mass… and find Jesus. Happy Christmas. Amen.   #PeaceOnEarth #CatholicMass #BeholdTheLambOfGod #JohnTheBaptist

On this Ninth Day of Christmas, Father Jonathan Meyer reflects on a question that echoes through every generation: Who are you? Drawing from today's Gospel (John 1:19–28), we hear John the Baptist refuse to define himself by titles or roles—and instead point us toward our true identity. You are not your job. You are not your worst day. You are not your failures. You are a child of God—loved, worthy, created with purpose, and not finished yet because God is not finished with you. This reflection connects beautifully with the questions posed in Decision Point: Who are you? Why are you here? Where are you going? Take time today to wrestle with this question. Everything else in life is built upon it.

On this Eighth Day of Christmas, we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God and reflect on a powerful question: What have you heard? What have you seen? Drawing from today's Gospel (Luke 2:16–21), Father Jonathan Meyer invites us to pause and reflect on how God has spoken to us this Christmas season—through Scripture, prayer, the Eucharist, our neighbors, and even the quiet moments of our hearts. Mary pondered all that she heard and saw. Today, we're invited to do the same. Take time for silence. Write it down. Let God show you how He is moving in your life. ✨ A holy day of obligation—and a holy day of opportunity.

On the seventh day of Christmas, we reflect on the gift of seven swans a-swimming and what it can teach us about preparing our hearts — and our lives — for the year ahead.   In this Peace on Earth reflection, Father Jonathan Meyer shares seven practical steps to help you enter 2026 with intention, clarity, and hope:   1️⃣ Assessment 2️⃣ Highlights 3️⃣ Lowlights 4️⃣ Lessons learned 5️⃣ What to stop doing 6️⃣ What to start doing 7️⃣ Practical, doable strategies   As we close out the year, this reflection invites you to pause, look back honestly, and make a simple plan so that God can do something new in your life.  

Welcome to Peace on Earth and the Sixth Day of Christmas. Today's Gospel comes from Luke 2:36–40, where we meet the prophetess Anna — a woman who spent decades in the Temple, praying and waiting for the redemption of Israel. What if Anna wasn't a stranger to Mary? What if she knew her — prayed with her — watched her grow in faith? Reflecting on this possibility has deeply changed the way I pray the Fourth Joyful Mystery of the Rosary: the Presentation. Anna becomes not just a passerby, but a spiritual mother, a faithful witness, and a woman who helped shape Mary's journey. Today, we're invited to reflect on the women in our own lives who have led us in faith — through prayer, devotion, sacrifice, and love. Maybe today is the day to thank them. Let us pray for grateful hearts and for the grace to be faithful witnesses to others, just as Anna was. Amen.   #PeaceOnEarth #SixthDayOfChristmas #ProphetessAnn #MaryMotherOfGod #JoyfulMysteries #PresentationOfTheLord #CatholicReflection #DailyGospel #LukeGospel #CatholicFaith #WomenOfFaith #RosaryReflection

Is your light still on? On this fifth day of Christmas, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the Gospel of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple and the witness of Simeon — reminding us that Jesus is the Light of the world. From the candles carried on February 2nd, to the baptismal candle entrusted to us at the beginning of our faith journey, and finally to the Paschal candle lit at our funeral — the flame tells the story of a life meant to shine. Christmas is not over. The light is not meant to go out. And we are still called to shine. In the midst of darkness, coldness, and discouragement, ask yourself: ➡️ Is my light still burning? ➡️ Am I allowing Christ's light to shine through me? Let us pray for the grace to keep the flame alive — not just during Christmas, but every day.

How are you protecting Jesus? On this fourth day of Christmas, and as we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family, we reflect on St. Joseph — a quiet, courageous protector who guarded Mary and the Child Jesus at all costs. Just as Joseph protected Christ from danger, we are called to protect the love of Christ within our own hearts. From noise. From busyness. From chaos and temptation. The love of Christ is like a small flame — it must be guarded, nurtured, and protected so it is not snuffed out by the world. Today, let this be a moment to fortify your heart. Cast out what doesn't belong. Make room for Christ to dwell deeply within you and remain there.

Are you open? On the third day of Christmas, we celebrate St. John the Evangelist and reflect on a beautiful Christmas mystery found in the Gospel: our salvation begins with a virgin womb and ends with a virgin tomb. Both were empty. Both were open. Both made room for God to act. Today's Peace on Earth reflection invites us to ask: Is there vacancy in my heart? Am I open and receptive to what God wants to do in my life? Just as God entered Mary's womb and the empty tomb, He desires to enter your life — if you're willing to say: “Lord, I'm open. I'm yours.” Take time for prayer, adoration, and stillness today. Open your hands. Open your heart. And let Christ enter in.

Has there been division in your family?   On the second day of Christmas, we celebrate the Feast of Saint Stephen and reflect on a Gospel that speaks honestly about family tension, division, and pain. Christmas gatherings can bring joy — but they can also remind us that not everything is healed or reconciled yet.   Jesus knew this. And He made you for this moment in your family's story.   You are not called to fix everyone. You are called to love, to pray, to intercede, and to trust that God can work in hearts just as He once worked in yours.   Don't let family struggles steal the joy you're meant to have this Christmas season. Be not afraid — the Lord is with you.  

Merry Christmas.

What do you need to be set free from?   On this final day of Advent — December 24 — we reflect on the Gospel of Luke 1:67–79, known as the Benedictus, the words spoken by Zechariah after months of silence. It's a powerful reminder of why Jesus came: to set us free.   Free from anxiety. Free from sin. Free from wounds, addictions, fear, and the burdens we carry.   Jesus wasn't born just to change history — He was born to change hearts.   As we approach Christmas, take a moment to name what you're asking Jesus to free you from, and pray simply: “Jesus, this Christmas, set me free.”   And if you still have time today — invite someone to Mass. Christ came for the whole world, not just for us.  

By what name are you known? In today's Gospel (Luke 1:57–66), we hear the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth naming John the Baptist. A simple moment—but one filled with meaning. Names matter. They carry identity, purpose, and love. In this Peace on Earth reflection, we're invited to look at:  • Where our name comes from  • The names we sometimes give ourselves  • And most importantly, the name God calls us: beloved son, beloved daughter As we prepare our hearts just days before Christmas, may we remember that God knows our name, loves our name, and calls us His own.

What good things has God done for you? As we enter the final days of Advent, today's Gospel — the Magnificat (Luke 1:46–56) — invites us to pause, reflect, and give thanks. In this Peace on Earth reflection, Jonathan Meyer encourages a simple but powerful practice: write down the great things God has done in your life. Mary proclaims, “The Almighty has done great things for me.” These words are prayed every day by the Church at Evening Prayer, reminding us that gratitude opens our hearts to joy. Take time today to:  • Reflect on God's blessings — big and small  • Shift focus from what's missing to what has been given  • Enter this final Advent week with gratitude through the Heart of Mary This reflection also includes a reminder of 24 hours of Eucharistic Adoration across Dearborn County, inviting you to go on pilgrimage and spend time with our Eucharistic Lord. Let this be a beautiful way to prepare your heart for Christmas. ⸻ ▶️ Watch the full Peace on Earth playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuie34UwUVpjiIMU5qfKh59ctB2fW2_Tv

Are you afraid to take Mary into your home?   In this Sunday Peace on Earth reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer invites us to slow down, rest in the Lord, and prepare our hearts for Christmas by learning in the school of Mary.   Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew (1:18–24), Father reflects on the angel's words to St. Joseph: “Do not be afraid to take Mary into your home.”   That same invitation is given to us today — not just at Christmas, but as a way of living the Christian life.   Mary shows us the pattern of discipleship: Receive. Conceive. Bring forth. Nurture.   As Christmas approaches, this reflection encourages you to: Rest and be at peace Make intentional time for Mass, prayer, and adoration Pray the Rosary, especially the Joyful Mysteries Create space for real presence with family and friends Detach from technology and rediscover true joy   Mary is not meant to be taken out for one season and put away. She is a model for every Christian, every day.   Allow today to be a peaceful day — so you can truly have a merry Christmas. ▶️ Watch the full Peace on Earth playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuie34UwUVpjiIMU5qfKh59ctB2fW2_Tv  

Was Mary standing by a tree at the Annunciation?   In today's Peace on Earth reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer explores Luke 1:26–38 and the powerful biblical connection between the Garden of Eden, the Annunciation, and Calvary.   Mary is the new Eve — where Eve disobeyed by a tree, Mary obeyed. Where Eve chose fruit that brought death, Mary chose the fruit of her womb — Jesus — who brings eternal life.   This reflection invites us to see: • Mary's “yes” as the reversal of the Fall • The tree of Eden fulfilled in the tree of the Cross • The Eucharist as the true fruit of the Tree of Life   A beautiful meditation on Scripture, symbolism, and the deep unity of God's plan of salvation.  

Have you ever doubted God — even in moments when everything seemed right? In today's Peace on Earth reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on Luke 1:5–25, the story of Zechariah, a priest chosen to enter the Holy of Holies — and yet, even there, he doubted. This reflection reminds us that: • Doubt does not cancel faith • Struggle does not mean failure • Faith is a choice we continue to make Zechariah's story shows us that doubt can become a place of growth, recommitment, and praise — if we persevere. If you've ever struggled in prayer, adoration, or even during a retreat, this message is for you.

 St. Joseph is often quiet, hidden, and easily overlooked — but his role mattered more than we can imagine. In today's Peace on Earth reflection, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the Annunciation to Joseph (Matthew 1:18–25) and reminds us that faithfulness in the ordinary moments of life is never insignificant. Whether you're providing for your family, serving behind the scenes, showing up day after day, or helping others shine — what you do matters. You are not invisible. You are not insignificant. You matter.

What does it mean to rejoice when life feels overwhelming?   In this homily, we look at two saints who both experienced prison — St. John the Baptist and St. Paul — and ask an important question: Why does one doubt, while the other says, “Rejoice always”?   The difference is the Holy Spirit.   Through baptism, we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit — and one of His greatest gifts is joy. Not happiness that depends on circumstances, but a deep joy that remains even in suffering.   This Gaudete (Rejoicing) Sunday reminder challenges us to ask: