Podcasts about almsgiving

There is something in us that wants to make the spiritual life clear, manageable, and measurable. We fast. We give alms. We pray. We examine ourselves. And quietly, almost imperceptibly, something begins to form beneath it all: A self that stands. A self that knows. A self that can look at another and say, “At least I am not like that.” The Evergetinos tears this apart without mercy. ⸻ A brother hears something about his neighbor and believes it. Of course he does. Because it confirms something already living in his heart. A readiness to see another as fallen, compromised, lesser. The Elder does not argue facts. He strikes at the root. If God Himself did not judge without seeing, why do you? This is not about caution. It is about a refusal to participate in the hidden violence of the fallen heart. Because judgment is never neutral. It is a movement away. ⸻ The Elder takes a wisp of straw. Then he points to a beam. This is not a moral exaggeration meant to humble us. It is a revelation of reality. The one who sees clearly does not see himself as slightly better than others. He sees himself as the one most in need of mercy. Not as an idea. Not as a pious posture. But as something that crushes comparison entirely. ⸻ We think the problem is that we judge too harshly. The Fathers say something far more disturbing. The problem is that we see ourselves as separate. As individuals standing before God, each with our own moral ledger. This is not Christianity. ⸻ We have become something new. Not improved individuals. Not morally refined versions of ourselves. But members of a Body. A single life. A single love. A single Christ. To judge another is not simply to misjudge. It is to tear the Body. It is to reject a member of Christ. It is to step outside love. ⸻ Abba Pambo says nothing for four days. Because the question itself is wrong. Am I saved by this? Am I saved by that? The mind wants metrics. God waits for the heart. And when he finally speaks, the answer is devastating in its simplicity: Guard your heart from anger toward your brother. Everything else is secondary. Fasting will not save you. Almsgiving will not save you. Even great labors will not save you. If your heart stands against your brother, you remain outside the life you seek. ⸻ We have reduced the faith to morality because it is easier. It allows us to measure. To compare. To justify ourselves. But love cannot be measured. And so we avoid it. ⸻ Abba Isaiah gives the image that exposes us completely. We are all in a waiting room. Each one wounded. Each one diseased in a different way. And what do we do? We turn to the one crying out in pain and ask, “Why are you like this?” It is madness. Because if I truly felt my own wound, I would not have the strength to judge another. Judgment is always a sign of distance from one's own heart. ⸻ The Fathers go further. They say that when you judge, you take the sin of the other upon yourself. Not symbolically. But actually. Because you have stepped out of mercy and into the place of God. And having abandoned mercy, you are left exposed. ⸻ This is why the holy man weeps when he sees another fall. Not out of sentiment. But out of knowledge. He has fallen today. I will fall tomorrow. This is the only safe ground. Not confidence. Not vigilance in the moral sense. But a kind of trembling solidarity. ⸻ We do not know how to live this. Because we do not yet believe what we are. We are not individuals trying to become good. We are beings brought into Love. Beings in Love. And the only way to exist within that reality is to relate to every other person from within that same love. Not because they deserve it. Not because we have judged them worthy. But because there is no other way to remain in Christ. ⸻ To judge is to step out. To love is to remain. ⸻ And this is where the teaching becomes unbearable. Because it leaves us with no ground. No superiority. No identity. No hidden place to stand. Only this: You are wounded. Your brother is wounded. Christ alone is the physician. Stay in the waiting room. Attend to your own disease. And when you look at another, do so as one who shares the same life, the same fall, the same desperate need for mercy. ⸻ Anything less is not Christianity. It is a religion of the self. And it cannot save. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:06:23 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Volume III page 10 Section 4 00:15:01 John ‘Jack': Good evening Father 00:18:09 Bob Čihák, AZ: Volume III page 10 Section 4 00:18:14 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Volume III page 10 Section 4 00:31:13 Julie: Sometimes I find myself thinking I'm discerning but  I'm really judging 00:31:35 Nypaver Clan: Reacted to "Sometimes I find mys..." with

In this episode, Grettelyn Darkey and Joe Grabowski walk through three newly unearthed Chesterton essays from the latest issue of Gilbert Magazine—exploring almsgiving, portraiture, and a delightful transatlantic linguistic puzzle—and invite you to discover why the magazine is one of the best-kept secrets in Chesterton studies. In This Episode: Why Chesterton's "promiscuous charity" upends our instinct to vet the needy before giving—and what that reveals about the giver's own soul The overlooked personal dimension of almsgiving versus institutional philanthropy, and how Chesterton draws on virtue ethics to expose the difference A debate as old as the daguerreotype: does a photograph capture truth, or does a painted portrait go deeper—and what does Chesterton mean when he says truth is a "moral state"? Chesterton's fondness for paradox applied to art, literature, and the limits of realism How a single American phrase, "rare steak," sent Chesterton on a linguistic rabbit trail through Irish immigration and transatlantic idiom in 1934 Chapters: 00:00: Introduction 00:24: Welcome & the Gilbert Read-Along Format 02:12: The Significance of Almsgiving 04:07: "On Giving Money to Beggars"—Chesterton's Humor and Opening 10:03: Prudence, Charity, and Getting the Monkey Off Your Back 14:40: Personal Giving vs. Institutional Philanthropy 20:49: Transitioning to "Portraits" 22:00: Photography vs. Portrait Painting in 1901 26:29: Truth in Art and Chesterton's Paradox 36:28: "A Query for Philologists"—Why Americans Call It "Rare" Resources Mentioned: Gilbert Magazine What I Saw in America by G.K. Chesterton FOLLOW US Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chestertonsociety Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanChestertonSociety X: https://twitter.com/chestertonsoc SUPPORT Consider making a donation: https://www.chesterton.org/give/ Visit our Shop: https://www.chesterton.org/shop/ Produced by Saint Kolbe Studios

In this Holy Week reflection, Oscar looks back on the Lenten journey—its highs and lows—and considers how God meets us in all of it. As beloved sons and daughters, we can trust that he responds to every effort we make. But how are we called to respond in return? We're not made to avoid suffering, but to embrace it with gratitude and grace, trusting that even our hardships have purpose. This week, as we walk more closely with Jesus, we remember that we're already strapped into the ride of his love. The question is: will we trust him enough to pull the cord and follow where he leads? We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

Send us Fan MailWhat is almsgiving, and why does the Church call us to practice it?In this episode, Fr. Cristino explains the meaning of almsgiving in the Christian life and how it goes beyond simply giving money. Rooted in Scripture and Tradition, almsgiving is an act of love, a form of self-denial, and a way of participating in God's care for others.How should Catholics approach almsgiving today? Does it only apply to the materially poor? And what if you feel like you don't have much to give?Through clear teaching and practical examples, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at how we can grow in generosity and live this call in our daily lives.Support the showSupport this show and get all future episodes by email atwww.kenandjanelle.com

Sermon by Reverend Cho'on Shiba

Send a text1299. JIBM: Lent 2026: Almsgiving pt 2 | March 18, 2026Fr Joe Krupp continues teaching on Lent and almsgivingCheck out the JIBM Web site at:  https://www.joeinblackministries.com/Please use the following link if you would like to financially support  Church of the Holy Family: https://pushpay.com/g/hfgrandblanc?sr…Support the show

3/17/26 7am CT Hour - Fr. James Kubicki/ Harry Kraemer John, Glen and Sarah give update on US/Iran war, TSA worker shortage, World Baseball Classic and St. Patrick's Day. Fr. Kubicki speaks to the life and legacy of the great St. Patrick and how to celebrate this day in a way that honors the man. Harry talks about why giving alms, even in a small way, makes a big difference during Lent.

Each of us has been entrusted with unique gifts, talents, and abilities. Our gifts are blessings from God, given with and for a purpose. In the Gospels, Jesus reminds us not to "bury" the gifts we receive. We will not be measured by what we accumulate, but by what we give away—reflected in our generosity, and the service we offer to others. During the sacred season of Lent, we are called to practice almsgiving—to generously give of ourselves and share our resources to help the poor and suffering. Today, find at least one way to be generous. There is someone who needs you and your attention and timely assistance. Sacrificially, share your God-given gifts. Don't bury them!

Money has a remarkable ability to shape our emotions. In a single week, it can make us anxious, fearful, generous, or joyful. But Scripture reminds us that money—despite the power we often assign to it—cannot ultimately provide what we most want. On today's episode of Faith & Finance, we spoke with Dr. Russell James III, the CH Foundation Chair of Personal Financial Planning and Charitable Giving at Texas Tech University and author of A Christian's Guide to Joyful Wealth Management.  He helped us explore a foundational question: If money cannot give us security or control, what is it actually for? The One Thing Money Can't Do Dr. James begins where the Apostle Paul begins—in 1 Timothy 6. Paul reminds believers of a simple but transformative reality: we cannot take wealth with us when we die. “Money is temporary,” Dr. James explained. “Eventually, every one of us will lose it. The only real question is how.” That truth reframes everything about financial decision-making. If wealth cannot follow us beyond this life, then we are not owners in the ultimate sense—we are stewards. And that reality isn't merely a theological concept; it's also biological. Eventually, every dollar we possess will pass to someone else. Thinking about money this way changes the conversation. Instead of asking, “How can I keep this?” we begin asking, “How should I use what God has entrusted to me while I have it?” The Four Ways People Manage Wealth According to Dr. James, Scripture points to four common approaches to handling wealth: 1. Binge Spending wealth recklessly in pursuit of pleasure—like Solomon's experiments in Ecclesiastes or the prodigal son in Luke 15. 2. Bury Hoarding wealth, protecting it carefully but never truly using it. 3. Toil Working relentlessly to accumulate more and more wealth, even when basic needs are already met. 4. Enjoy Receiving God's provision with gratitude and using it for good. The first three approaches share a common problem: they ultimately lead to the same outcome—dying with unused or misused wealth. The fourth option—enjoyment—points us toward something better. The Hidden Role of Fear in Our Finances One of the most powerful forces shaping financial behavior is fear. Dr. James noted that many stewardship conversations focus on avoiding overspending. While that's important, Jesus often warned about the opposite problem—hoarding wealth out of fear. In both the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30) and the Parable of the Minas (Luke 19:11–27), the servant who buried what he was given offered the same explanation: “I was afraid.” Fear narrows our focus to worst-case scenarios. It tempts us to seek control through accumulation rather than trusting God as our provider. And yet Scripture reminds us that wealth cannot offer the control we hope for. It is always uncertain and ultimately temporary. The Biblical Vision of Enjoyment One of the most surprising teachings in Scripture is that God intends us to enjoy what He provides. In 1 Timothy 6:17, Paul writes that God “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.” But biblical enjoyment is not indulgence. Dr. James explained that true enjoyment comes when we put resources to work for good purposes. In the very next verse, Paul describes what that looks like: “They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” —1 Timothy 6:18 In other words, enjoyment is found not in self-indulgence but in participating in God's purposes. The Power of Generosity Generosity plays a central role in joyful stewardship. When believers share resources within the community of faith, it strengthens relationships, builds trust, and points others toward God's goodness. Dr. James highlighted an interesting biblical distinction between two types of giving: Almsgiving—helping those in need, which Jesus instructs should be done privately (Matthew 6:3–4). Community sharing—supporting the fellowship of believers and ministry, which the New Testament often celebrates publicly (2 Corinthians 8–9). Understanding these distinctions helps believers see how generosity can both honor humility and inspire others. A Legacy That Lasts When people think about legacy, they often think about money passed to heirs. But Scripture points to something deeper. Financial wealth is uncertain. It can disappear through market shifts, poor decisions, or changing circumstances. But good works endure. Paul describes generosity as “storing up treasure…as a firm foundation for the coming age” (1 Timothy 6:19). The example of a life lived in faithfulness can shape generations far more powerfully than any financial inheritance. Paul's instruction in 1 Timothy 6:19 calls believers to “take hold of the life that is truly life.” According to Dr. James, joyful stewardship allows us to do exactly that. When we release fear and trust God's provision: Gratitude replaces anxiety Generosity replaces hoarding Purpose replaces accumulation Research even confirms what Scripture has long taught: generosity produces joy. Taking Hold of the Life That Is Truly Life Money cannot give us security or control. But it can become a powerful tool in God's hands. When we see wealth as a temporary trust rather than a permanent possession, we are freed to use it wisely—enjoying God's provision, blessing others, and participating in His kingdom work. That's how stewardship moves beyond spreadsheets and budgets to become something far greater: a joyful response to God's generosity.  If you'd like to read Dr. Russell James III's book, A Christian's Guide to Joyful Wealth Management, you can download the book and study guide for free at EncourageGenerosity.com.  On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I run a small business in Texas, and I'm looking for a point-of-sale system from a company that operates with biblical values. Do you have any recommendations? I'm 81 and have been investing in the stock market for years. Would it be wise for me to move some of that money into annuities at this stage? I have two certificates of deposit right now. Should I cash them out and move that money into an IRA instead? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) A Christian's Guide to Joyful Wealth Management EncourageGenerosity.com Gainbridge Authorize.net | Square Sound Mind Investing (SMI) Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode of Trending with Timmerie: Episode Guide Impromptu explanation of the Trinity to my 3 and 5 year old's (3:31) We make our workload more intense, not AI (15:27) Is there a problem with women taking hormones to restore health? (23:06) New study shows 1 in 10 women are experiencing severe negative side effects of chemical abortion (30:21) The spiritual weapon of almsgiving (39:10) Resources mentioned: AI Isn’t Lightening Workloads. It’s Making Them More Intense. https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/ai-isnt-lightening-workloads-its-making-them-more-intense-e417dd2c?mod=hp_lead_pos11 New Study: Abortion Pill Injures Tens of Thousands of Women Every Year - LifeNews.com https://www.lifenews.com/2026/03/10/new-study-abortion-pill-injures-tens-of-thousands-of-women-every-year/ Hawley introduces bill to strip FDA approval from 'inherently dangerous' abortion pill https://www.foxnews.com/politics/hawley-introduces-bill-strip-fda-approval-from-inherently-dangerous-abortion-pill Abortion’s Impact on Maternal Mortality https://relevantradio.com/2022/05/nancy-pelosi-cant-receive-communion-abortions-impact-on-maternal-mortality/ Abortion Pill Reversal https://abortionpillreversal.com/

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Fr. Mattingly preaches on the history of almsgiving and shares the benefits of giving and receiving alms.

Join Fr Rob as he reflects on the Sunday Gospel readings and how we can apply these reflections to our lives today. 3rd Sunday of Lent Gospel: John 4:5-42

Unsulated almsgiving is a game changer!

A weekly program produced by the Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg, Pa. SHOW TITLE: Living Lent: Prayer, Fasting, Almsgiving, and the Radical Witness of the Catholic Worker Movement   SHOW DESCRIPTION: Prayer. Fasting. Almsgiving. These three practices define Lent—but what happens when they become a way of life? Renee and James from the St. Martin de Porres house in Harrisburg join us today from our local Catholic Worker movement, to discuss how it's message and each Lenten Season continue to challenge us in the Church today. SCRIPTURE: Matthew 6:1–6, 16–18 SAINT SPOTLIGHT: Servant of God Dorothy Day

What is almsgiving — and why does the Church teach that it is more about justice and right relationship than simply personal charity or philanthropy? As “Preach” continues its Lent 2026 series on the three classical pillars of the season—prayer, fasting and almsgiving—we turn to almsgiving, perhaps the most confronting of the three. In this conversation, Ricardo da Silva, S.J. is joined by Kerry Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA., and author of Imagining Abundance: Fundraising, Philanthropy, and a Spiritual Call to Service, a book that reflects on generosity as a spiritual practice rooted in faith. Timecodes: 0:00 Generosity is at the heart of almsgiving 2:30 Our cognitive dissonance with money and faith 5:43 How Kerry became a steward of her family's 80-year-old foundation  8:20 About Catholic Charities U.S.A. 11:50 Biblical teachings on giving alms  16:36 Mother Teresa: “never take away the right of another to be generous” 21:30 We need both charity and justice 26:24 New insights from Pope Leo and ‘Dilexi Te' 28:08 Preach almsgiving with thanksgiving --- Support this podcast by becoming a subscriber. Visit ⁠⁠americamagazine.org/subscribe⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send a textFr Joe Krupp continues the Lent 2026 series with a focus on AlmsgivingCheck out the JIBM Web site at:  https://www.joeinblackministries.com/Please use the following link if you would like to financially support  Church of the Holy Family: https://pushpay.com/g/hfgrandblanc?sr…Meet Me in the Word: A Daily DevotionalThoughtful reflections for Jesus-Followers Monday through Friday.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

First Lenten Retreat: The Works of Lent: Growth Toward a Generous Spirit During each Friday of the Lenten Season, there will be a Lenten Retreat Conference. This is the first week within this series. Each conference will appear singularly on the Website, SoundCloud, Facebook and iPod platforms. All conferences will also appear within this post. This Retreat explains that Lent has a deliberate spiritual structure rooted in early Church practice. While many people think of Lent mainly as “giving something up,” the Church intends something deeper: a transformation of the heart through the three traditional works of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Historically, Ash Wednesday was added later as a gateway into Lent, orienting believers toward repentance and renewal. In the ancient Church . . . especially in Rome . . . seasonal fasts (later called Ember Days) connected spiritual life to the rhythms of agriculture: planting, growth, harvest, and sharing food with those in need. These fasts were communal, not private, and included processions, vigils, ordinations, and acts of charity. The faithful prayed not only for themselves but for crops, the poor, catechumens preparing for baptism, and new ministers of the Church. The Retreat stresses that Lenten practices are not about quantity (“doing more”) but quality and intention: • Prayer asks for whom and how we pray, deepening attentiveness to God. • Fasting reveals what we truly hunger for, disciplines disordered desires, and fosters solidarity with the poor. • Almsgiving is the goal toward which prayer and fasting lead . . . self-gift in imitation of Christ. True fasting expands the heart; true prayer changes behavior; true charity gives not just possessions but oneself. Lent therefore trains Christians to move from self-centeredness to sacrificial love, mirroring Christ's own self-emptying. Ultimately, charity endures above all virtues and becomes the visible sign of authentic faith. Listen to this first devotional Lenten Retreat Conference and let it transform your heart. Join us virtually, or physically, each week for additional Lenten Retreat conferences. Listen to: The Works of Lent: Growth Toward a Generous Spirit --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work Christ Carrying the Cross: Italian Painter: Giovanni Bellini: 1500 The painting presents a quiet, intimate moment. Christ is shown close to the viewer, transforming the scene into a personal encounter . . . a call to contemplation and compassion.

EPISODE OVERVIEW In this first installment of our Lenten series on The Seven Deadly Sins, Deacon Chris explores the spiritual roots of gluttony and greed. Through the lens of Genesis and the Temptation of Jesus in the desert, we discover that the real battle is not about food or money — it is about trust. Temptation begins when we believe God is small. From there, we grasp for substitutes. This episode challenges us to examine: How we use comfort to numb deeper hunger How we cling to control instead of trusting the Father How Lent can enlarge our desire for God KEY TAKEAWAYS Hunger is not sinful — it can be holy. Gluttony is the refusal to be empty. Greed is the fear of dependence. The devil tempts us to live as orphans. Jesus overcomes temptation by remaining the Son. Freedom begins with a pause and a simple prayer. PRACTICAL CHALLENGE Before reaching for your default comfort, pray: “Jesus, what am I really hungry for?” Wait five minutes. Reclaim your freedom. SCRIPTURE REFERENCES Genesis 3:1–7 Romans 5:12–19 Matthew 4:1–11

In an episode recorded on Ash Wednesday, Ann Schwickerath, executive director of Project Renewal, discusses the work the charity does in Davenport, Iowa. Founded by Sister Concetta Bendicente and Father Marv Mottet over 50 years ago, Project Renewal serves children in all grades K-12 with afterschool programs, which include academic tutoring. The offerings are free of charge. They are provided by staff and volunteers at a house in the neighborhood. Some of the staff and volunteers live in the community with the people they serve. We connect Project Renewal's mission to the practice of almsgiving, which is central to the season of Lent. Music for this podcast is "Funky Delight, Version 1," courtesy of udio.com, inspired by David Baker, 2026. You can hear all our podcasts on your favorite podcast platform including Apple podcasts, iHeartmedia, TuneIn and more. This segment was produced and recorded at KALA Radio Studios, St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa, USA.

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021826.cfmThe world has its “small-g gods”: sex, money, and power. In this powerful Lenten homily, Fr. Chris Alar, MIC explains how the consecrated religious counter them through poverty, chastity, and obedience—but what about the laity?The answer is the Church's timeless Lenten call: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.Fasting disciplines the flesh and breaks the grip of pleasure. Almsgiving loosens our attachment to money by giving not from surplus, but from sacrifice. Prayer humbles our desire for control and power, reminding us that God is in charge—not us. These are not random practices; they are spiritual weapons.Father Chris reminds us that Lent occurs 46 days before Easter, with 40 days of fasting (Sundays excluded). Ash Wednesday—first named in 1091 under Pope Urban II—flows from ancient Jewish penitential practice and early Christian public penance. The ashes, made from burned palms, are sacramentals, not the Eucharist itself. They symbolize our mortality: “Remember you are dust.”Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting (ages 18–59) and abstinence (14+). All Fridays of Lent require abstinence from meat. Fridays throughout the year remain penitential days.Lent is 10% of the calendar year—a perfect tithe of time. As Father shares, the currency of friendship is time. If we love God, we give Him time.This Lent is not about giving up bad things. It's about surrendering lesser goods to seek the Greatest Good. Deny yourself. Take up your cross. Follow Christ. ★ Support this podcast ★

Lent is the period in the Church's calendar to where the faithful are encouraged to rekindle their relationship with Jesus through practices such as prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Come Easter, we can rise with Christ a new creation. This blogcast explores “Lenten Transfiguration" from the Ad Infinitum blog, written by Kate Fowler and read by Jonathan Harrison.“Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him.” -Luke 9:32Twice in the Gospels we hear of the trio of disciples sleeping at pivotal moments in Christ's life and ministry: at the Transfiguration – in this Sunday's Gospel – and in the Garden of Gethsemane during Christ's Agony. Both times, Christ is in deep prayer. And both times, Peter, James, and John are “overcome by sleep.”I get it. The group of men have just hiked up a mountain. It would have been normal to rest after such a grueling endeavor. Similarly, in the Garden, Jesus took the three disciples to pray after the Feast of the Passover—a long, filling meal complete with wine. I think of all the times I've napped after a holiday meal and sympathize with Peter, James, and John.  In these scenes, they are so human. They become tired and rest their eyes. And yet, because of their physical tiredness, they miss out on God's glory.In this week's Gospel for the Second Sunday of Lent, Jesus is transfigured and his three beloved disciples are offered a glimpse of the glory to come—not only the glory of the Resurrected Christ, but the glory that awaits all men and women who allow themselves to be transformed by his grace.This Lent, I find myself asking, “Am I asleep with his disciples? What's causing me to shut my eyes to God's glory?” These questions are what have guided my Lenten journey as I discern how to grow in holiness this season.  Each year, the Church in her wisdom asks us to reflect on what is making us spiritually sluggish and helps us prepare for Easter through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. By ramping up in these three Lenten tenets, we can grow in our ability to see God's will and the Holy Spirit at work in our lives.Had the Apostles been awake throughout the entirety of Christ's Transfiguration, they would have basked longer in this glory—fear and confusion would not have gripped them. Lent calls us to wake up, to be alert, not only for the Easter celebration, but for God's invitation to greater holiness throughout our lives.Pope Francis highlights Lent as the continuation of the “journey of conversion.” This journey is a lifelong one. And yet, seasons such as Lent, which focus on an even greater attention to prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, often spur us deeper and further on this journey towards Christ.As Pope Francis encouraged in his 2019 Lenten message:Let us not allow this season of grace to pass in vain! Let us ask God to help us set out on a path of true conversion. Let us leave behind our selfishness and self-absorption, and turn to Jesus' Pasch. Let us stand beside our brothers and sisters in need, sharing our spiritual and material goods with them. In this way, by concretely welcoming Christ's victory over sin and death into our lives, we will also radiate its transforming power to all of creation.The goal of Lent is not only Easter, but Christ Himself. This Lent, may our participation in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving help us shake off the drowsiness that shuts our eyes to God's glory. For more resources to accompany you throughout your Lenten journey, please click here.Questions for Reflection:  Am you asleep with Christ's disciples? What's causing you to shut your eyes to God's glory?” Author:Kate Fowler is a former staff member for the Catholic Apostolate Center. Her work included: editing posts and resources for the Center, and co-hosting the OnMission podcast. Resources:Listen to On Mission: Ash WednesdayLenten PracticesRead the Ad Infinitum blogLent and Easter Resources Follow us:The Catholic Apostolate CenterThe Center's podcast websiteInstagramFacebookApple PodcastsSpotify Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. also appears on the podcast, On Mission, which is produced by the Catholic Apostolate Center and you can also listen to his weekly Sunday Gospel reflections. Follow the Center on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and YouTube to remain up-to-date on the latest Center resources.

Prayer Fasting and Almsgiving Fr. Dave Heney joins Patrick to discuss Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving (2:57) - Biblical foundations of Lenten practices (14:15) - Lenten practices as pillars of Catholic devotion (22:07) Break 1 (23:02) - Mary - I'm praying for my mom; will fasting help? (29:49) - Jordan - Giving up social media for Lent (38:51) Break 2 (39:46) - Connie - I'm converting soon! What should I do for lent. (46:24) - practical tips for almsgiving https://lent2026.com/

Welcome to the podcast of Saint Patrick's Anglican Church in Lexington, KY. We meet Sundays at 4:30 p.m. at 200 Colony Blvd., Lexington, KY 40502. This podcast contains sermons and teaching for spiritual formation. Explore our church at www.saintpatrickschurch.org

On today's episode, Johnnette Williams walks us through how to approach Lent! She reflects on the three pillars: Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving. Listeners call in sharing how they share lent with those around them and wondering if you can offer up your Lenten season for a prayer intention.

On today's episode, Johnnette Williams walks us through how to approach Lent! She reflects on the three pillars: Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving.

Lent precedes Easter as a season of preparation. We are encouraged to pray, give alms, and fast. We invite Christ more into our lives this time of year so as to bring about greater conversion before the great feast of Easter. This blogcast explores “Letting Christ Reign in Your Lent" from the Ad Infinitum blog, written by Erin Donn, and read by Meghan Abando.“Jesus, let there be more of you and less of me.”This is the short prayer I was once encouraged to pray as a penance by a wise, older priest. As we find ourselves at the start of Lent, these words once again come to mind, and I would like to offer them for your contemplation.​The Church offers the season of Lent as an opportunity to prepare Her children well for Christ's resurrection–both at the celebration of Easter (March 31 this year) and at His Second Coming. These preparations take the form of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving; the spiritual, penitential, and charitable practices we take up and the worldly things we put down. For forty days we walk into the desert, just as Jesus did, to humbly open ourselves to temptations and more fully offer our lives to the Lord. So what does that prayer–letting there be more of Jesus and less of me–have to do with Lent? Well…everything. In the first reading at Mass on Ash Wednesday, the prophet Joel extols us: “Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the LORD, your God” with your whole hearts (Joel 2:12). The Lord does not want to see what we can do of our own strength or will during this season; He wants us to see what He can do through us and the transformation He can work within us. Lent certainly calls for a degree of testing the limits of our comfort zones. More than this, it is an invitation to leave behind our will and consider the offerings and changes that will help us become more like Christ. As you reflect on your Lenten practices, consider asking yourself: “What can I offer to Jesus? How can I make more room for Him in my life? What can I let go of that will help me on this journey?” Approaching Lent in this way necessitates an act of surrender. It requires us to focus less on the material outcomes and more on the spiritual. This might mean to not give up ice cream like you do every Lent and instead, or additionally, prayerfully consider what areas of your life you have been keeping the Lord out of. St. John Henry Newman speaks to this in a sermon for the First Sunday of Lent: “...fasting is only one branch of a large and momentous duty, the subdual of ourselves to Christ. We must surrender to Him all we have, all we are. We must keep nothing back.” This, admittedly, is a challenging invitation, but remember that we are not doing Lent on our own. We are doing it with Jesus. This act of surrender necessitates reliance. And this reliance requires humility; an admission of our own weakness and powerlessness compared to Christ's great strength. When you want to snooze your alarm and eschew the morning prayer time you've committed to, offer that to the Lord. When you are tempted to join in the office gossip, ask for Jesus' strength. Ordinary as these offerings may be, that does not mean they are easy. If we have chosen to subdue ourselves for Christ's sake, we can trust that He will provide the grace and strength we lack.​As Catherine Doherty writes in Season of Mercy, “Mortification and penance are a passionate response of a man to a Passionate Lover who is God.” In humbly striving to more fully do the will of the Father, we naturally make more room for Jesus. As you surrender yourself to Him this Lent, also rely on Him. He wants us, and the attachments that bind us, to shrink away only so that His mercy and love can reign more completely.“Jesus, let there be more of you and less of me.” Author:Erin Donn serves as the parish missionary at Immaculate Conception Church in Washington, DC. Resources:Listen to On Mission: Journeying Through Holy WeekRead and learn about Lent and EasterRead the Ad Infinitum blog Follow us:The Catholic Apostolate CenterThe Center's podcast websiteInstagramFacebookApple PodcastsSpotify Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C. also appears on the podcast, On Mission, which is produced by the Catholic Apostolate Center and you can also listen to his weekly Sunday Gospel reflections. Follow the Center on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and YouTube to remain up-to-date on the latest Center resources.

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November 2, 2025 (PM) - Pastor Phil Henry - Matthew 6:1-4

The Reformation rediscovered the five SOLAs: Sola Scriptura, Sola Fide, Sola Gratia, Solus Christus, and Soli Deo Gloria. The Reformation began with Martin Luther's 95 Theses, intended to reform the church, addressing issues like indulgences and simony. The formal cause of the Reformation was Sola Scriptura, emphasizing the Bible's authority over the Church. The material cause was salvation by faith in Christ alone.Romans 1:16-17 highlights the Gospel as God's power for salvation through faith. The bad news is mankind is ungodly and unrighteous, suppressing the truth (Romans 1:18-20, 3:10-18). Man's heart is evil, dead in sin, and by nature, children of wrath (Genesis 3:6, 6:3; Ephesians 2). No one is justified by works of the law (Romans 3:19). Man cannot save himself.Righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:21). All have sinned and fall short of God's glory, but are justified by grace through Christ's redemption. Abraham's faith was counted as righteousness (Romans 4). God declares sinners legally innocent through justification, a gift based on faith, not works. Justification through faith in Christ brings peace with God (Romans 5).Jesus' parable of the Pharisee and tax collector illustrates justification by faith (Luke 18). God's name, Jehovah Tsidkenu, means "The Lord our righteousness" (Jeremiah 23:6). In contrast, Romanism/Eastern Orthodoxy views justification as a lifelong process involving works. They believe in infused righteousness and reject imputed righteousness. Catholics believe believers can obtain merit through good works produced by grace.The Protestant view is that a sinner is justified, God's righteousness is imputed, then sanctification occurs, followed by glorification. The Romanist view is that baptism infuses righteousness, but sin returns, requiring works and sacraments. The "treasury of merit" is unbiblical. Almsgiving does not cover sins.The Mass involves re-sacrificing Jesus, contradicting Hebrews. God justifies the ungodly (Romans 8). Works mark salvation but do not merit it. Professing Jesus is not enough; one must possess Him and be born again.Cardinal Barron's view on salvation for non-Christians is questioned, contrasting it with Jesus's statement in John 14:6. Galatians 2:15-16 emphasizes justification through faith in Jesus Christ, not works of the law. Faith plus works equals salvation is man-centered, while faith equals salvation plus works is God-centered. Justification by works is the essence of every false religion.#SolaFide #Reformation #MartinLuther #FaithAlone #FiveSolas #Justification #GraceAlone #Theology #Christianity #Gospel

we're sitting at the dinner table with Jesus — and He's not making small talk. When a Pharisee invites Him to dinner, Jesus skips the handwashing ritual and drops a truth bomb that changes everything:“You clean the outside of the cup, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness.”(Luke 11:39)What does this mean for us today — especially as we head into Thanksgiving, a season that often highlights performance, perfection, and appearances?In this episode, Christina breaks down what Jesus really meant by “give alms” in Luke 11:41, and how purity isn't about rituals or routines — it's a heart posture. You'll learn how almsgiving isn't just about money or good deeds; it's about mercy flowing naturally from a heart aligned with God.

Almsgiving and Tithing

The Lord challenges us to explore the state of our inner hearts, giving us an outward action to cleanse our souls through almsgiving. (Lectionary #468) October 14, 2025 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

St. Isaac speaks with the voice of one who has tasted what he teaches. His words carry both severity and sweetness, and at their heart lies a single call: to love God with such singleness that all else is left behind, and to find rest in Him alone. He begins by speaking of reading. For the one who prays, reading is no small companion. Instead of being filled with scattered memories and impressions of the world, the soul, when nourished by Scripture, finds within itself a treasury for prayer. The words of God become recollections that rise up during stillness, offering the mind holy material with which to converse with God. Sometimes these recollections themselves are so sweet, so overwhelming, that they silence the heart entirely and leave the soul motionless before God. Reading thus becomes a doorway into the mysteries of prayer—not as an exercise of intellect alone, but as communion, as a sacrament of remembrance that enlightens the heart. But to enter such prayer, St. Isaac reminds us, requires renunciation. A heart weighted with possessions or concerns is like wet wood that cannot be set aflame. Divine fervor does not ignite in a soul that loves ease. The words are stark, even offensive, but they uncover the truth: we cannot serve two masters. Only the one purified of worldly entanglements will be able to bear witness to the sweetness of God's mysteries, for true knowledge is born only of experience, not of hearsay. Yet this renunciation is not negation alone. It must take flesh in mercy. St. Isaac turns us to almsgiving, the act that draws the heart most near to God. To give freely, without discrimination between worthy and unworthy, without expectation of return, is to love as God Himself loves. Poverty chosen for Christ becomes a higher wealth, freeing the mind for serenity and boldness in prayer. Still, even here he warns us of subtle temptations: one may come to love possessions “for the sake of almsgiving,” and thus re-enter turmoil. Almsgiving is holy, but stillness is higher, for in stillness the soul communes with God directly, free of all care. This is St. Isaac's vision—severe, yes, but radiant: to become all flame with the love of God, to renounce all so that one might rest in Him, and in that rest, to discover the joy of unceasing prayer and the inexhaustible fountain of His mercy. Here, and here alone, the soul finds the rest of love. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:10:46 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 149, last sentence on page 00:22:51 Diana Cleveland: I have found that is to be really true. It is easy to get hyper fixed on self instead of meditating on God. 00:24:14 Diana Cleveland: *hyperfixated 00:32:01 Lou Judd: Question: Father, if we are suffering or are distracted or angered by the situation of the Church, what leaders are doing… and that is distracting and upsetting you … what do you do? 00:39:44 David Swiderski, WI: I remember something from Chesterton who mentioned when someone stole his umbrella at a catholic church he knew it as the right place for him a sinner. Sometimes our pride can get in the way. I learned a long time ago to stop listening to a largely anti catholic media and read what actually is written by the church or Vatican. I prefer a more traditional mass but will go anywhere and in any language where the eucharist is present. 00:40:25 Diana Cleveland: I think of the lamentations of the minor prophets at times of anger. 00:41:03 Catherine: Reacted to I remember something... with "

Discover how Sirach, Hebrews, & Luke reveal the truth about indulgences, invoking saints, & whether good works can merit eternal life.

Episode 145: 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time, Year C In today's episode, we look at three details that come from each of the readings for this upcoming 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time, Year C. The detail from the first reading, which is taken from Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29, relates to the topic of indulgences. The […]

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Katie and Tommy discuss the most hated practices people “have” to do during Lent. Is it fasting? Extra prayers? Almsgiving? They dig into why these practices feel so hard—and why we often dread them—even when we know they're supposed to help us grow. Plus, they share some personal stories, spiritual insights, and maybe even a few Lenten hot takes you didn't see coming. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

Hour 2 for 4/9/25 Drew prayed the Chaplet of Divine Mercy with Brooke Taylor (1:00). Then, Fr. Chris Walsh finished the three-day lent series with the power of almsgiving (26:07). Topics: rich young man (33:54), St. Faustina (40:41), McDonalds meal for needy mom (44:07), Sandwich for homeless man in Dublin (45:49), and giving time (47:28).

Almsgiving (charity) is one of the three traditional practices of Lent.  When preaching about almsgiving, Jesus focuses on purity of intention.  We should love others for their sake and for the glory of God.  St. Paul paints a portrait of the Christian heart in his letter to the Ephesians.  Christian charity is especially imbued with understanding of others and selflessness in service.  https://comeawaybyyourselves.com

The three traditional disciplines of Lent are prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. While most of us are at least aware of how we can benefit through prayer and fasting, some need a deeper dive into almsgiving. George Nixon, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of West Tennessee, shares how Almsgiving based in mercy can help you have a truly powerful lenten experience.

St. Joseph's chastity, obedience, and humility with Norbertine Father Sebastian Walshe. (2:28) St. Joseph was a financial failure. How did he find self value and patience with himself? (24:47) Almsgiving as a Lenten practice (28:31) Why did an abortion business close in one of the highest volume abortion locations in the country? (41:19) Resources mentioned : Norbertines of St. Michael’s Abbey: https://theabbotscircle.com/ Book Saint Joseph: The Man Closest to Christ https://amzn.to/4bQvsu8 Learn more about chastity, a Fruit of the Holy Spirit (39:52 mark): https://omny.fm/shows/trending-with-timmerie-catholic-principles-applied/deprogramming-feminism Planned Parenthood expose in the New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/15/us/planned-parenthood-clinics.html

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https://onepeterfive.com/almsgiving-catechism/ The Meaning of Catholic is a collaborative lay apostolate dedicated to uniting Catholics against the enemies of holy Church through the domestic church, catechetics, and the public promotion of truth and charity. https://meaningofcatholic.com/ -Confession of Faith: https://meaningofcatholic.com/my-confession-of-faith/ -Internet Promise: https://meaningofcatholic.com/my-promise/ Join the Guild to support our work and access the online community, free books, and exclusive content: https://meaningofcatholic.com/register or donate: http://meaningofcatholic.com/donate or if you can't afford to join and would like free membership, contact us: https://meaningofcatholic.com/contact Join our lay sodality which offers up penance for clergy and seminarians: https://meaningofcatholic.com/2022/03/01/fellowship-st-anthony/

Msgr. Esseff teaches the importance of fasting, almsgiving and the Liturgy of the Hours during the season of Lent.  He shares his experience of fasting in a desert found in Peru. From this he learned the importance of FASTING and PRAYER.  Msgr. Esseff challenges us to discern what the Father in Heaven is asking us to do this Lent through fasting, so we can purely and perfectly follow His Holy Will.  And he describes ALMSGIVING, and story from an experience he had with Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity Sisters. The Church prepares a spiritual retreat for all of us during Lent.  The Holy Spirit is transforming you in a radical way so that you become more like Jesus Christ...the day by day exercise of Morning Prayer, the Eucharist and Evening Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving, and the other moments of contemplative prayer aids in the transformation...our ego decreases and Jesus increases in our minds and in our hearts. The post Preparing for Lent – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Read Online“But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing…But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret.But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face…” Matthew 6:3; 6; 17One Church Father explains that almsgiving, prayer and fasting are three acts that help us to combat the three temptations that Jesus overcame in the desert. First, our Lord overcame gluttony when the evil one tempted Him to turn stones into bread to satiate His hunger after fasting for 40 days. Second, our Lord overcame vainglory when the evil one took Him to the parapet of the temple and tempted Him to throw Himself down so that the angels of God would save Him, proving His divinity. Third, our Lord overcame greed when the evil one took Him up a high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world, promising to give them to Jesus if He worshiped him.Today's Gospel identifies the three ways that we are able to overcome these same temptations of gluttony, vainglory and greed. Almsgiving, or generosity, is the cure for greed. Prayer within the “inner room” of your soul is the cure for vainglory. Fasting is the cure for gluttony.As Lent begins, we are also invited into the desert for 40 days. We are invited to face the many temptations we endure in life so as to overcome them by the power of God. If you struggle with one of these above-mentioned temptations, all of them, or some similar temptation, the cure is found when the temptation is identified and the contrary virtue is embraced.Do you struggle with greed? If so, consider being generous this Lent. God has promised to provide for your needs. He has not promised earthly wealth, but He has promised to care for you. There is great freedom found in believing that promise. One way to more fully trust in God's providence is to generously give of your money to those in need. Don't hesitate to do so if this is your struggle.Do you struggle with a desire for vainglory and have an inordinate desire to prove your worth to others? If so, turn to prayer. It is in personal prayer, within that “inner room” of your heart, where God will meet you and reveal to you your true value and worth. As you discover your dignity in prayer, you will find you have no need to prove that dignity and value to others through prideful means.Do you struggle with gluttony and seek to satiate your longings by the excessive consumption of food and drink? If so, the cure will be found in fasting. Denying your disordered appetites has great spiritual value. Fasting intermingled with prayer opens your soul to seek satisfaction only in God, and not in the flesh. Reflect, today, upon that which needs to be your primary focus this Lent. What is it that keeps you from God? What temptations do you struggle with the most? Perhaps greed, vainglory or gluttony is among your struggles. If so, then do not hesitate to commit yourself to the cures this Lent. The end result will be that “your Father who sees in secret will repay you.” My freeing Lord, help me to see my greatest sins this Lent and to begin the process of overcoming them. Please reveal to me the virtues I need to embrace so as to be freed of these burdens and to grow more firmly in my love of You and others. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Guido Cagnacci - Collezione privata, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.