Fr. Jonathan Meyer, pastor of All Saints Parish in Dearborn County, IN.
In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus praises the humility of the tax collector — a lesson Fr. John Hollowell connects beautifully to our experience at every Mass. Through gratitude, silence, and humility, we learn what it means to come before God with open hearts.
In this inspiring talk from the Intense Youth Conference 2025, Lindsay Shrock invites young women to rediscover the true meaning of chivalry and embrace the virtue of modesty as a reflection of their God-given dignity . Drawing from Scripture, Catholic tradition, and her own personal testimony, Lindsay debunks seven myths about modesty and shows how it's not about shame or rules, but about freedom, love, and protecting what is most valuable.
In this powerful talk from the Intense Youth Conference, young men are challenged to face the realities of temptation, pornography, and the culture's distorted view of sexuality. Drawing on the wisdom of St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body, this message calls men to authentic love, self-sacrifice, and to see women as God's beloved daughters.
In this homily, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reminds us that “all Scripture is profitable for teaching, refutation, and correction” (2 Timothy 3:16) — but only when read in light of Catholic tradition. Fr. Meyer shares the wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas, who compiled centuries of saintly commentary on the Gospels, and shows how these treasures are now freely available online. He also explains why even the devil can quote Scripture — and why that makes understanding the Church's interpretation so essential.
What if the way you stand, kneel, or lift your hands could change your prayer life? In this homily, Fr. Meyer explains why our bodies matter in prayer — how posture not only expresses faith but also transforms the heart. From Moses with raised arms, to Mary's openness, to the way we kneel in adoration, every gesture says something powerful to God. Discover why 70% of all communication is nonverbal — and what that means for your relationship with Christ.
In this second part of our ALIVE series, Fr. Meyer and Fr. Hollowell reflect on the first two of Chris Stefanick's Nine Rules to Live a Joy-Filled Life: Gratitude and Silence. Following the incredible Reboot event with Chris Stefanick here in Dearborn County, our parish is taking these lessons to heart — learning to live with thankful hearts and to find God's voice in the quiet. This reflection invites us to pause, give thanks for the gifts we often take for granted, and make space for silence where Christ can truly speak. ✝️ ➡️ Watch Part 1 for this week's Gospel reflection ➡️ Subscribe for next week's message as we continue the journey toward a more joyful, intentional faith #Alive #AllSaintsParish #CatholicFaith #LivingJoy #ChrisStefanick #Reboot #Gratitude #Silence #FaithInAction #GodIsGood
In this episode of the Alive series, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the Gospel of Luke 18:9–14 — the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The tax collector's humble gesture of beating his breast, saying “O God, be merciful to me, a sinner,” connects us to the way we worship at Mass and to the rich tradition of bodily prayer in the Church. Fr. Meyer explores: • Why our bodily posture matters in prayer. • How the tax collector's humility inspires us to seek God's mercy. • St. Dominic's nine ways of prayer and how they are echoed in the liturgy. This week, challenge yourself to pay attention to your posture in prayer — standing, kneeling, bowing, striking your chest — and offer it all for the glory of God.
Day 9 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for all those experiencing grief and loss, that Christ may bring hope and healing. We ask the intercession of St. Jane Frances de Chantal.
Day 8 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for those struggling with suicidal thoughts, for those who have died by suicide, and for better care and prevention. We ask the intercession of Servant of God Dorothy Day. #MentalHealthNovena #FrMeyer #AliveSeries #CatholicFaith #DorothyDay #SuicidePrevention
Day 7 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for those whose mental health is affected by poverty and economic struggles. We ask the intercession of St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa). #MentalHealthNovena #FrMeyer #AliveSeries #CatholicFaith #MotherTeresa #Poverty
Day 6 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for an end to racial injustice and for healing of the wounds it causes in mental health. We ask the intercession of St. Martin de Porres, a model of humility and love. #MentalHealthNovena #FrMeyer #AliveSeries #CatholicFaith #StMartinDePorres #RacialJustice
Day 5 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for youth and young adults, who often face isolation, pressure, and loneliness. We ask the intercession of St. Kateri Tekakwitha for peace and hope in their lives. #MentalHealthNovena #FrMeyer #AliveSeries #CatholicFaith #StKateri #CatholicYouth
In this episode of the Alive series, Fr. Jonathan Meyer reflects on the Gospel of Luke 18:1–8 — the parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge. The widow in Scripture is more than just a character — she is an image of the Church: faithful, relentless, and unwilling to give up. Like her, we are called to be people of persistent prayer, trusting in Christ, the merciful Judge who listens to us. Fr. Meyer challenges us to ask: What are you praying for today? Will you persist tomorrow? How can we live as the Church that never gives up? Let's keep asking, seeking, and knocking — confident that God loves us and has a plan for us.
Day 4 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for children living with mental health challenges, asking Christ to bless and protect them. We seek the intercession of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, the Little Flower. #MentalHealthNovena #FrMeyer #AliveSeries #CatholicFaith #StTherese #Children
Day 3 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for the growth of mental health ministries in our Church, that all who struggle may find welcome and care. We ask the intercession of St. John of God, patron of hospitals and the sick. #MentalHealthNovena #FrMeyer #AliveSeries #CatholicFaith #StJohnOfGod #MentalHealthMinistry
Day 2 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for families — that they may be sources of love, healing, and support for those facing mental health challenges. Our prayer is offered to the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. #MentalHealthNovena #FrMeyer #AliveSeries #CatholicFaith #HolyFamily #FamilyHealing
Day 1 of the Mental Health Novena with Fr. Jonathan Meyer. Today we pray for an end to the stigma surrounding mental health and ask the intercession of St. Dymphna, patroness of those with mental health struggles.
“Lord, increase our faith.” Fr. Meyer shares a powerful reflection on how a deeper devotion to the Rosary can transform your relationship with Jesus — and change the world. Discover why praying the entire Rosary daily has renewed his priesthood, strengthened his prayer life, and brought him closer to Christ through Mary.
What does the Catholic Church really say about politics, laws, and synodality? In this homily, Fr. Hollowell connects the prophet Habakkuk's cry with today's cultural struggles—abortion, same-sex marriage, and gender ideology—and shows how the Church's wisdom guides societies toward truth. At the same time, he reminds us that our mission is not condemnation, but love: to accompany every person with the Spirit of power, love, and self-control (2 Tim 1:7).
In this episode of the Alive series, Fr. Meyer reflects on the Gospel of Luke 17:11–19 — the healing of the ten lepers, where only one returned to give thanks. Gratitude changes hearts, relationships, and the way we see the world. Yet so often, the One who deserves our thanks the most — our Lord — is the One we forget. Fr. Meyer invites us to: • Reflect on who in our lives needs to hear our gratitude. • Recognize the Mass as the ultimate act of thanksgiving. • Live this week with hearts overflowing in gratitude to God.
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.
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