Podcasts about blessed mother

Welcome to Vatican Insider on the weekend that precedes the arrival in Rome of half a million youth from over 140 countries to celebrate the weeklong Jubilee of Youth that starts Monday, July 28! Exciting days ahead, for sure! And an exciting Special report this weekend in what is normally the interview segment of VI. I prepared a Special program because this is such a special weekend! Saturday is the feast of Sts. Anne and Joachim, parents of our Blessed Mother and grandparents of Jesus, and Sunday marks the 5th World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly.

Welcome to Vatican Insider on the weekend that precedes the arrival in Rome of half a million youth from over 140 countries to celebrate the weeklong Jubilee of Youth that starts Monday, July 28! Exciting days ahead, for sure! And an exciting Special report this weekend in what is normally the interview segment of VI. I prepared a Special program because this is such a special weekend! Saturday is the feast of Sts. Anne and Joachim, parents of our Blessed Mother and grandparents of Jesus, and Sunday marks the 5th World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly.

Patrick explores Charlie Kirk’s surprising comments urging Protestants to embrace greater reverence for Mary while pushing back on Catholic teachings like the Immaculate Conception and Assumption; audio clips and sharp reactions from both Protestant and Catholic perspectives tumble out as Patrick brings biblical and historical insight, citing even reformers like Luther, in thoughtful response. Vivid stories from callers swirl in, including modern accounts of extraordinary events and personal encounters with Marian devotion. The conversation turns candid and sometimes challenging as Patrick questions assumptions and connects these issues straight to faith’s daily impact. Robert - In 2007, something happened to image of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City. Did you hear about this? (02:24) Patrick shares and comments on Charlie Kirk’s talk about our Blessed Mother (21:20) Audio: reaction to Charlie Kirk (38:41)

Patrick fields pressing questions about Catholic teaching on mortal sin, moral relativism, and what truly counts as grave matter. A caller describes a broken family tie, seeking insight into relational pain, while another wrestles with the moral weight of honesty during life-or-death situations. He shares practical resources and scriptural foundations, responding to heartfelt struggles with faith, obligation, and complex family burdens. Patrick continues his conversation with Kurt from the end of the last hour asking about the conditions of mortal sin and the “grey line” of relativism. (01:03) Enrique - Is there moral grounds for my brother to abandon our family and not have any conversations with them? (17:55) Angel - My family member declined to go to Mass with us this Sunday. Is there anything I can do to talk to her? (26:02) Vance casts tie-breaking votes to move forward $9.4B rescissions package — which would defund PBS, NPR and Planned Parenthood (36:41) America's dairy farmers and ice cream producers agree to quit using artificial colors Patrick in Monterey - I was not aware that the Blessed Mother had a sister. How is this possible? (39:41) Maureen - My daughter is having a difficult time with a recent divorce. Does her ex-husband need to agree to get an annulment? (41:32) Jared - I want to work in health insurance. The government mandates that insurance covers abortion. Some even cover gender therapy. Is it wrong to be an insurance salesman and sell these things? (47:20)

The Our Lady of Mt. Carmel procession through the streets of Hammonton, New Jersey, celebrates the 150th anniversary with a Canonical Coronation from the Pope will be bestowed upon the statue a Our Lady of Mt. Carmel. Listen to Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C share more in this segment of the Son Rise Morning Show on Sacred Heart Radio, about how the procession impacted his family and the people who attend it.The 150th anniversary of the procession in honor of the feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Hammonton, New Jersey, is the longest continuous Italian festival in the United States. The image of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel there will have a canonical coronation on the feast day, July 16th. A Mass celebrates the special event as well as the annual procession of saints through the streets. The Pallottines served the parish that was called St. Joseph from 1901-2004. The diocese merged three parishes into one and renamed the parish, St. Mary of Mt. Carmel. The other image of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel that has a canonical crown is at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in New York (1904) which is the first church of the Pallottines in the United States. The Pallottines still serve there there.A canonical coronation is a formal act by the Pope, expressed through a papal bull, to crown a venerated image of Christ, the Blessed Virgin Mary, or St. Joseph. This act acknowledges the image's local and universal significance within the Catholic Church. This is a rare honor for the church and our diocese.In the United States, only four Marian images have received this honor: Our Lady of Prompt Succor: Crowned on November 10, 1895, in New Orleans, Louisiana.Our Lady of Mount Carmel: Crowned on July 10, 1904, in New York City, New York. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception: Crowned on August 22, 2013, in Lake Charles, Louisiana.  Our Lady of La Leche: Crowned on October 10, 2021, at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine in Florida.The Feast of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel celebrates the tradition that a Carmelite friar, St. Simon Stock, received a vision of the Blessed Mother presenting him with the Brown Scapular. Today, the scapular forms a part of the habit of Carmelite friars and sisters. Lay faithful who wear the scapular do so as both a sign of devotion to the Blessed Mother and as a promise to imitate her example as the perfect follower of Christ.Listen to Pallottine Fathers and Brothers to learn moreLearn more about Our Lady of Mt. CarmelVisit the Canonical Coronation websiteView the other images in the processionReady Summertime is a Time for Processions 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.

In this episode of Catholic Conversations on Catholic Spirit Radio, host Paul Garcia welcomes two special guests who share an inspiring story of faith, art, and transformation. Carmen Kelly, affectionately known as the "cleaning angel" of Catholic Spirit Radio, recounts how she came into possession of a life-size damaged statue of Our Lady of Sorrows. Together with John Smith, an art teacher from Epiphany Catholic School, they embarked on a delicate journey to restore the statue. Listeners will be moved by Carmen's devotion to the Blessed Mother and the intricate restoration process described by John. From mysterious origins and unexpected connections to an artistic rebirth, this episode highlights the power of faith and community to bring new life to something once broken. Tune in to hear how this beautiful statue became a symbol of hope and restoration for all involved.

Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church. As the Italy pilgrimage continues to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, Father Dave reflects on the Blessed Mother on today's feast. We are to behold Mary as our mother and invite her to pray with us. Preached at Basilica of St. Mary Major, Rome, Italy on 6-9-25

Patrick fields a whirlwind of listener questions, tackling everything from whether tattoos might carry hidden dangers—spiritual or otherwise—to how Catholics should respond when a relative is ordained in a Protestant church after not being raised in the faith. He clarifies misconceptions about the Novus Ordo Mass, draws from the Council of Trent, weighs in on quirky doll rumors, and offers simple steps for praying with thrifted rosaries or finding peace after confession. Answers go deeper than surface-level advice, often blending practical steps with stories and unexpected insights. James - My niece is getting ordained as a minister in a Christian Church. What should I do? (03:06) Cody - I heard a priest say that the traditional Latin mass is the only 'real dogmatic form'. Is that true? (14:09) Cristina (email) – Does the Labubu doll have an evil or devilish meaning? Celia - I am not always able to pray the rosary at 7pm with Father Rocky, but I try to pray it at different times of the day. Does it still count as praying with Father? (28:41) Eamon - How do I overcome despair from past sin? (31:23) Sal - Patrick mentioned the Martyrs suffered pain. Did the Blessed Mother suffer normal birth pains? (36:54) Lucas - I have a friend who has addiction and self-destructive behavior. What's my obligation to them? I don't want to give up on him because people never gave up on me. (42:29) Sandy - My husband refuses to get an annulment for his first marriage. I want to receive Communion but we can't. We have both been married before. (47:45)

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton talk about the Blessed Mother as a model for our motherhood. Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton talk about the Blessed Mother as a model for our motherhood. Heidi Saxton is co-host of the CatholicMom.com Prayercast, and author of Stories of the Eucharist (OSV) and The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers (Ave). She is also senior acquisitions editor for Ave Maria Press. She and her husband Craig divide their time between northern Michigan and West Palm Beach, Florida. You can read about her adventures on Life on the Road Less Traveled.  Maria Morera Johnson, author of A Beautiful Second Act:, My Badass Book of Saints, Super Girls and Halo, and Our Lady of Charity: How a Cuban Devotion to Mary Helped Me Grow in Faith and Love writes about all the things that she loves. A cradle Catholic, she struggles with living in the world but not being of it, and blogs about those successes and failures, too.   Link in Show:· Read all articles by Heidi Hess Saxton Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson

In today's episode, Father Balkey speaks with Shayne Smith, a well known comedian who has recently come to St Matthew. Together, they discuss the role of the Blessed Mother. You can watch and listen to the other episodes of Holy Hope here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgF74jpj_30HeM2CH0qZ_0rEip6QT8Zyb

The warnings that the world has received from the Blessed Mother must not be forgotten or ignored. The consistency of her messages should awaken in each of us a deeper appreciation for the times we are living in and what we can do right now. Mark Mallett joins us to break this down, especially the powerful words spoken by Our Lady in Rwanda in the 1980s. ------------------------------- Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKZ9OefEJLEx1qYcBxgAFww/join -------------------------------- Read "Rwanda's Warning" from Mark Mallett HERE: https://www.markmallett.com/blog/ -------------------------------- Check out Mark Mallett's website "The Now Word" HERE: https://www.markmallett.com/blog/ -------------------------------- PATREON - Help support this podcast by becoming a US Grace Force PATRON here: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=25398590 -------------------------------- Subscribe to our NEW US Grace Force YouTube channel! US GRACE FORCE 2.0. Don't miss any new, great content!! https://youtube.com/@USGraceForce2.0?si=zq47qEqPITXnIDkg -------------------------------- Join the US Grace Force Team HERE: https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001ESuSGaJpYPCG2iUdd4j4bkKwd4gkh2ZUVbam_Ty9rCn6blH6_U3cI2D8UvSLEcSzHnC4eq2UWmK1I0SbEw0SPKqnkZ2j0Z4J4D-_m4dD6CKJU9day-bBa8Qnx4dv7RLDIVlYAjL1JWsjfUTNPH2jQIVY9gbdbz4O4oMIzv5V1dT_upQsD8cX86iq_5Y-x4eLrTVtdOmA24s%3D&fbclid=IwY2xjawFRvvdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdo526R1rgNAIW76yyQnVbo957e1TgOoQ4RH3Tr84D8376Y7jng09gtlOw_aem_H7Y7Ej6cF6-nPyfOZ4qMTQ -------------------------------- PRAY THE ROSARY: The Joyful Mysteries: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMAR9MEN1pE&t=656s --------------------------------- The Sorrowful Mysteries: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHUkx66oAxE&t=311s --------------------------------- The Glorious Mysteries: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pg_JWsxS6EA&t=207s --------------------------------- The Luminous Mysteries: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVL5CqBr3CA&t=198s --------------------------------- The Full Rosary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44zL1kFIvP8&t=1765s --------------------------------- Be Ready Emergency Preparedness Course: Be prepared to Care for and Protect your Family in times of Natural Disasters, Emergencies, Civil Unrest, Economic Collapse, and more. Sign up for the course HERE: https://brcoalition.com/ --------------------------------- Go HERE to check out the BR Coalition and get great training Body, Mind & Soul! https://brcoalition.com/ Become part of one of the fastest growing online Catholic Membership sites. --------------------------------- Get your hands on some great US Grace Force T-shirts! https://us-grace-force.creator-spring.com/ --------------------------------- The seven promises given to St Bridget of Sweden for those who devote themselves to her Seven Sorrows. 1. I will grant peace to their families. 2. They will be enlightened about the Divine Mysteries. 3. I will console them in their pains, and I will accompany them in their work. 4. I will give them as much as they ask for as long as it does not oppose the adorable will of my Divine Son or the sanctification of their souls. 5. I will defend them in their spiritual battles with the infernal enemy and I will protect them at every instant of their lives. 6. I will visibly help them at the moment of their death—they will see the face of their mother. 7. I have obtained this grace from my divine Son, that those who propagate this devotion to my tears and dolors will be taken directly from this earthly life to eternal happiness, since all their sins will be forgiven and my Son and I will be their eternal consolation and joy.

Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle reveals how the Blessed Mother rekindles our hope in a world full of despair by helping us reawaken the joy and courage to embrace life to the fullest.

We stand on the brink of World War III. Will the pope finally heed the Blessed Mother's request?Please support the Our Lady of Fatima Podcast:Buymeacoffee.com/TerenceMStantonLike and subscribe on YouTube:@OurLadyOfFatimaPodcastFollow us on X:@FatimaPodcastThank you!

In this episode of Fatima Today, hosts Barb Ernster and Katie Moran take a deep dive into the powerful events of the June 13, 1917 apparition at Fatima. This pivotal moment revealed the mission to spread devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, especially entrusted to Lucia. Hear how the Blessed Mother gave us the promise of salvation, called for personal conversion, and offered her Heart as a refuge and guide for all souls. We also discuss the significance of this devotion in light of the Sacred Heart and Immaculate Heart feast days, highlight the Shrine's upcoming events, and share insights from the biography Pathway Under the Gaze of Mary.

Father Dave welcomes back Timothy O'Malley to discuss how we can better relate to Mary as our Blessed Mother. O'Malley is associate director at the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame, and the author of the new book “A Fierce and Tender Love: 7 Meditations on Mary, Mother of God.”

Fr. Mike reviews the major solemnities and feast days that make up the liturgical year and explains why they are important to celebrate. We learn that the liturgical year highlights key moments of the Paschal Mystery and commemorates the life of our Blessed Mother and the lives of the saints and martyrs. The feasts and solemnities of the liturgical year ultimately point us to Christ's sacrifice and strengthen our faith. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 1168-1173. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Today's Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, is celebrated annually on the Monday after Pentecost. It was officially added to the Church's calendar by Pope Francis in 2018.  As outlined in an address by Pope John Paul II, the Blessed Mother's role as Mother of the Church can be traced back to four significant events. The first is the Annunciation, where Mary was called to give her consent to the coming of the Messianic Kingdom, which would take place with the formation of the Church. The second event which helps clarify the Blessed Mother's role in the formation of the Church happens at the wedding feast of Cana. Mary asks her Son to exercise his Messianic power in changing water into wine, implanting faith in the lives of the first century disciples.  The third event takes place at Calvary. The Crucified Christ proclaims Mary's motherhood of all the faithful when he proclaims: “Woman, behold your Son.” This was not just addressed to John the Evangelist, Pope John Paul II explained, but to all the faithful, including ourselves 1992 years later.  The fourth instance of Mary's motherhood of the Church is recognized by St. Luke in Acts 1:14 in today's alternative reading, in which Luke describes the early Christians gathering together in prayer. Specifically, it states that all the apostles, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers were present and united in prayer. This verse follows our Lord's Ascension into heaven as they were waiting for the arrival of the promised Holy Spirit. The verse highlights the unity of the early Church and the Blessed Mother's prayerful presence imploring the gift of the Holy Spirit for all, the same Holy Spirit that had overshadowed her during the Annunciation.  The Church is like a mother, generating life by giving birth, but also helping her children to grow through the sacraments and accompanying us through our entire lives. For St. Jerome, “The Church is nothing other than the souls of those who believe in Christ,” carefully watched over by the Mother of the Church, our Most Blessed Virgin Mary.  Blessings,Fr. Kevin MacDonald, C.Ss.R.

Read OnlineStanding by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold, your son."  Then he said to the disciple, "Behold, your mother."  And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. John 19:25–27The memorial we celebrate today, which was added to the Roman Liturgical Calendar in 2018 by Pope Francis, highlights the truth that the Blessed Virgin Mary is not only the Mother of the Person of Christ, and, therefore, the Mother of God, she is also the Mother of the Church, that is, the Mother of all the faithful. The Blessed Virgin Mary is your mother. And as your mother, she is truly tender, compassionate, caring and merciful, bestowing upon you everything that a perfect mother desires to bestow. She is the fiercest of mothers who will stop at nothing to protect her children. She is a mother wholly devoted to you, her dear child.The Gospel passage chosen for this memorial depicts our Blessed Mother standing at the foot of the Cross. She would have been no other place than directly beneath her Son as He endured His last agony. She did not flee in fear. She was not overwhelmed by grief. She did not sulk in self-pity. No, she stood by her Son with the perfect love and strength of a devoted, caring, compassionate and faithful mother.As she stood by her Son in His hour of suffering and death, Jesus turned to her and entrusted the Apostle John to her maternal care. From the early Church Fathers until the most recent teachings of the Church today, this act of entrusting John to Mary and Mary to John by Jesus has been understood as an entrustment of all the faithful to the maternal care of Mother Mary. Mother Mary is, therefore, not only the Mother of the Redeemer, Christ Himself, she also becomes the Mother of all the redeemed, the mother of us all, the Mother of the Church.Consider the spiritual mother you have in Heaven. A mother is one who gives life. Your mother in Heaven is entrusted with the task of bestowing upon you the new life of grace won by the Cross. And as your mother, she will not withhold anything from you that is to your benefit. A mother is also one who is tender with her children. The Immaculate Heart of our mother in Heaven is one that is filled with the greatest tenderness toward you. Though her caresses are not physical, they are much deeper. She caresses with the tenderness of grace which she imparts to you as you pray and turn to her in your need. She gives you the grace of her Son, poured out upon the Cross as the blood and water sprung forth as a font of mercy. Mother Mary pours that mercy upon you as a tender and devoted mother would. She holds nothing back.If you are unaware of the love in the heart of our Blessed Mother for you, use this memorial as an opportunity to deepen your understanding of her role in your life. Many children take their mothers for granted, not fully understanding the depth of their love. So it is with our Mother in Heaven. We will never fully comprehend her love and her constant motherly workings in our life until we join her in Heaven face to face. Reflect, today, upon Mother Mary standing by you in every moment of your life. See her there in your joys and in your sorrows, during your moments of temptation and struggles, in your moments of confusion and clarity. See her there by your side, bestowing every good spiritual gift upon you when you need it the most. She is a true mother, and she is worthy of your love and gratitude.My dearest Mother, you stood by your Son with unwavering fidelity and love. You cared for Him, nurtured Him and never left His side. I also am your dear child. I thank you for your loving fidelity toward me and open my heart to the grace of your Son that you bestow upon me throughout life. Help me to be more attentive to your motherly care and to daily grow in gratitude for your presence in my life. Mother Mary, pray for us. Jesus, I trust in You.Images: Featured: The Crucifixion via Web Gallery of ArtMain: Lucas Cranach the Elder, PDM-owner, via Wikimedia Commons  Source of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

On the jewish Feast of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came upon the Apostles, Blessed Mother, and disciples and made them the first fruits. #Catholic #homily #Scripture #GospelOfTheDay Can I pray for you during my upcoming pilgrimage to the Holy Land September 16-26, 2025? Log your intentions at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf3qYdWret4imDOxsZm_x5vmszSlx6BxJKcLv9ou-7vVfovSQ/viewform?usp=header Sign up to have podcasts and blog posts emailed to you: http://eepurl.com/ioCgy2 Give feedback at https://forms.gle/gGhujv39g43BUxmK6 Readings are found at https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060825.cfm

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, we tackle one of the most intriguing questions about the Bible's development: If the disciples and early Christians referenced the Book of Enoch, why isn't it part of the biblical canon? We explore the Church's criteria for canonization, Enoch's influence, and why it ultimately didn't make the cut. Help support the work we do by donating! Catholicanswersradio.com Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 03:51 – Why was Enoch not considered canon if the disciples referenced it? 14:25 – Why is confession to a priest necessary? 21:17 – Who is St. Mary Salome? Was she the Blessed Mother's sister? 25:07 – Why is the penalty of sin, death? It seems so harsh. 33:55 – Rather than having a Catholic funeral Is having a mortuary service burial, okay? 35:32 – Is there any truth to the rumor that the baptism formula was in Jesus name early on? 40:30 – What would be the implications of a person without a soul? 44:45 – Could a Catholic accept Jesus as the new Isaac and Peter as the new Abraham as an explanation of Mt. 16:18-19? 49:17 – My husband is interested in Catholicism. He asked: 1 Peter 2:25 Why is the word bishop replaced to overseer in some versions?

How can we ensure a happy death?  We have been working our way through all the mysteries of the rosary from the Joyful Mysteries all the way through to the Glorious Mysteries. Today, we have reached the 4th Glorious Mystery. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The fruit of this mystery is a happy death. In today's podcast episode I give you 5 things you can do to ensure a happy death. All we have to do is look to the rosary which is the life and death of Jesus and the life and death of our Blessed Mother. When we pray the rosary and meditate on the mysteries, we are learning how to live so that we may die happy and reunite with our Lord and Savior at the heavenly banquet. If you live in the Lehigh Valley of Pennsylvania and would to work with me in-person to declutter your home, please email me at: tightshipmama@gmail.com If you would like to join the private Facebook group, please click the link here:Facebook Group If you would like to subscribe to my monthly newsletter which always has something related to decluttering, meal planning or praying with any zoom links to our monthly live meet-up, please click here:Monthly Newsletter Sign-Up  

In this episode of Roadmap to Heaven, Adam Wright discusses the importance of morning offerings, First Friday and First Saturday devotions, and the role of the Blessed Mother in guiding believers. Adam shares a conversation he taped with Cory Grizzle before his medical leave. They emphasize the need for trust in God, especially during uncertain times, and highlights the significance of prayer and sacraments in deepening one's faith. The conversation also touches on the lessons from the Ascension and the concept of miracles as invitations to believe. Finally, the show concludes with reflections on the glorified body and the hope of resurrection. Takeaways Morning offerings set the tone for the day. First Friday and First Saturday devotions are essential for spiritual growth. The Blessed Mother leads us closer to Jesus. Trusting God is crucial, even when we don't understand His plans. Prayer and sacraments are vital for a strong faith. Lessons from the Ascension teach us about obedience and trust. Miracles serve as evidence of God's presence and an invitation to follow Him. The glorified body is a promise of resurrection and eternal life. We must teach our children to trust in God through our actions. Daily prayer and reflection help us stay close to Christ. Download the Covenant Network app today! Pray the Visual Rosary at VisualRosary.org For more information on Covenant Network, visit OurCatholicRadio.org

Read OnlineMary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb.” Luke 1:39–42The beautiful feast we celebrate today depicts two miraculous pregnancies. One came about by the overshadowing of the Holy Spirit. The other was the miraculous conception in the womb of a woman who was advanced in years. The Scripture passage quoted above presents us with the initial encounter of Mary and Elizabeth as they greeted each other upon Mary's arrival. Mary had traveled a long distance to be with her cousin for the last few months of Elizabeth's pregnancy. And upon greeting Elizabeth, another miraculous event occurred. The baby in the womb of Elizabeth, Saint John the Baptist, “leaped for joy.” Thus, even prior to his birth, John began to fulfill his unique mission of preparing the way for the Lord. He did so at that moment by inspiring his own mother, Elizabeth, with a knowledge of the divine presence of the Savior within the womb of Mary.Consider, especially, the conversations that these two holy women would have shared during their months together. Though we are given only a small insight into their initial conversation from the Scriptures, we can be certain that this was but a small sampling of what they would have discussed in much prayerful detail. In particular, their conversations would have contained a mutual sharing of the spiritual gift of joy.Joy is much more than an emotion. It is spiritual in nature. It is not only an experience of something fun, it's the experience of realizing the action of God in your life. Seeing God at work in wonderful ways leads to gratitude and rejoicing. This joy produces a strength and energy that is contagious and uplifting.We must all strive to see the hand of God at work in our own lives so that our focus upon His divine actions will produce joy also. We need joy. We need to be strengthened by this gift so that we will be encouraged and strengthened as we daily strive to fulfill His will.Reflect, today, upon the witness of joy that these two holy women give us. Know that you are called to share in the same joy as you humbly turn your attention to the ways in which God has blessed you. If you find that you lack joy in life, then consider where you allow your mind to wander throughout the day. Do you dwell on the past, on hurts, on problems and the like? If so, these thoughts will undoubtedly lead to depression and possibly even despair. Try to turn your mind to the action of God in your life. See the many blessings you have been given and savor those divine actions. Doing so will lead you to rejoice with Saint Elizabeth and our Blessed Mother.My holy infant Jesus, as You dwelt in the sacred womb of Your own dear mother, Your presence caused much rejoicing in her heart and in the hearts of Elizabeth and John. Help me to see Your presence in our world and in my life, so that I, too, will be filled with the joy of You constantly coming to me. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Joseolgon, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

As we close out the beautiful month of May, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, join me this week, as I reflect on Mary's Fiat—her courageous and wholehearted “yes” to God—and how it continues to inspire Catholic women today. Through personal stories, scripture, Marian devotion, and insights I unpack the obstacles we face when trying to say yes to God—fear, control, suffering, and doubt—and how, like Mary, we can find the grace to trust even when the path is painful or uncertain. Whether you're navigating a difficult season, questioning your next steps, or longing to grow deeper in faith, this episode offers gentle encouragement and powerful reminders that: Saying yes is not a one-time moment—it's a daily mindset. Surrendering to God isn't giving up—it's claiming your victory. Even in suffering, God walks with you—and will equip you for the path ahead. Jennie Guinn is a Catholic life coach, podcaster, and radio show host who walks with women facing life's unexpected turns. She helps them encounter the Father's love, be transformed by the Holy Spirit, and find healing from pain and disappointment so they can magnify Christ with their lives. Through faith-filled coaching and heartfelt conversations, Jennie empowers women to rediscover hope and to live life with purpose and joy.

Did the Blessed Mother reach the point of death? Did the first houses of prayer had Priests? This and more on today's Open Line Wednesday with Fr. Mitch Pacwa.

Pentecost celebrates the moment the Holy Spirit descended upon the Blessed Mother Mary and the disciples in the Upper Room, giving them the courage to proclaim the Gospel to all they encountered. Pentecost is the birthday of the Church and Mary's is known as the Mother of the Church. Listen to Fr. Frank Donio, S.A.C share more in this segment from the Son Rise Morning Show on Sacred Heart Radio, in his reflection on Pope Francis' Bull of Indiction for the Jubilee Year, Spes Non Confundit.24. Hope finds its supreme witness in the Mother of God. In the Blessed Virgin, we see that hope is not naive optimism but a gift of grace amid the realities of life. Like every mother, whenever Mary looked at her Son, she thought of his future. Surely she kept pondering in her heart the words spoken to her in the Temple by the elderly Simeon: “This child is destined for the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed, so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed – and a sword will pierce your own soul too” (Lk 2:34-35). At the foot of the cross, she witnessed the passion and death of Jesus, her innocent son. Overwhelmed with grief, she nonetheless renewed her “fiat”, never abandoning her hope and trust in God. In this way, Mary cooperated for our sake in the fulfilment of all that her Son had foretold in announcing that he would have to “undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again” (Mk 8:31). In the travail of that sorrow, offered in love, Mary became our Mother, the Mother of Hope. It is not by chance that popular piety continues to invoke the Blessed Virgin as Stella Maris, a title that bespeaks the sure hope that, amid the tempests of this life, the Mother of God comes to our aid, sustains us and encourages us to persevere in hope and trust.In this regard, I would note that the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City is preparing to celebrate, in 2031, the fifth centenary of Our Lady's first apparition. Through Juan Diego, the Mother of God brought a revolutionary message of hope that she continues to bring to every pilgrim and all the faithful: “Am I not here, who am your Mother?” [20] That message continues to touch hearts in the many Marian shrines throughout the world, where countless pilgrims commend to the holy Mother of God their cares, their sorrows and their hopes. During the Jubilee Year, may these shrines be sacred places of welcome and privileged spaces for the rebirth of hope. I encourage all pilgrims to Rome to spend time in prayer in the Marian shrines of the City, in order to venerate the Blessed Mother and to implore her protection. I am confident that everyone, especially the suffering and those most in need, will come to know the closeness of Mary, the most affectionate of mothers, who never abandons her children and who, for the holy people of God, is “a sign of certain hope and comfort”. [21] (from Pope Francis' Bull of Indiction for the Jubilee Year, Spes Non Confundit) Notes:Jubilee ResourcesRead Spes Non Confundit hereVisit Pope Leo XIV resource pageView Pope Francis ResourcesView conclave resources here 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.

Did the Blessed Mother reach the point of death? Did the first houses of prayer had Priests? This and more on today's Open Line Wednesday with Fr. Mitch Pacwa.

In this episode of Fatima Today, hosts Barb Ernster and Katie Moran explore the rich Marian devotions of the Eastern Church. They discuss the Akathist Hymn to the Theotokos and the deep veneration of the Mother of God under the title of “Protection.” The conversation highlights the miraculous Icon of Our Lady of Mariapovch, which began shedding tears in 1670 and now resides in the Cathedral of St. Stephen in Vienna, with copies in Hungary and at a shrine in Cleveland, Ohio. Katie also shares the story of the apparitions of Our Lady of Hrushiv in Ukraine on May 12, 1914, where the Blessed Mother warned of Russia becoming godless and pleaded for the rosary—drawing a powerful connection to the message of Fatima. The episode concludes with a reflection on four beloved icons traditionally attributed to St. Luke: Our Lady of Vladimir in Russia, Our Lady of Czestochowa in Poland, Salus Populi Romani in Rome's Basilica of St. Mary Major, and Our Lady of Perpetual Help in the Church of St. Alphonsus Liguori. These sacred images testify to the enduring love and protection of the Blessed Mother across East and West.  

Deacon Steve Greco is a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Orange. He is founder of Spirit Filled Hearts Ministry, and host of Empowered by the Spirit.  In this episode, Deacon Steve presents with his wife, Mary Anne Greco, and Katie Hughes of Spirit Filled Hearts Ministry.  This is an encore episode from 2015; the topic is the role of the Blessed Mother in the Church.Empowered by the Spirit airs live weekdays at 10:00am and Fridays at 5pmPacific Time go to https://www.spiritfilledevents.com/empowered-by-the-spirit website or download our Spirit Filled Radio App for Android or Apple Devices.APPLE LINK FOR APPGOOGLE PLAY LINK FOR APPArchives of shows from Spirit Filled Radio are available on podcast at https://www.spiritfilledevents.com/empowered-by-the-spirit Support the show

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and also a time we honor Mary as our Blessed Mother. Father Dave welcomes back Scott Weeman, founder of Catholic in Recovery, to discuss his new book, “The Recovery Rosary: Meditations for Those Impacted by Addiction, Compulsions, and Unhealthy Attachments.”

Johnnette Williams talks about how God works through His people by looking at the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary and her Fiat — her yes to God. A caller's question leads to a conversation about St. Louis de Montfort and his deep devotion to Mary. We explore what it means to live with faith, trust God without needing all the answers, and let our Blessed Mother lead us closer to Him.

Johnnette Williams talks about how God works through His people by looking at the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary and her Fiat — her yes to God. A caller's question leads to a conversation about St. Louis de Montfort and his deep devotion to Mary. We explore what it means to live with faith, trust God without needing all the answers, and let our Blessed Mother lead us closer to Him.

The Email That Sparked It All Cyrus read an email from Ray in Texas, who asked a fair and honest question: “Aren’t we spending too much time on Mary? Shouldn’t we focus more on Jesus?” You could practically hear Patrick rubbing his hands together; he was itching to respond. And respond he did... with biblical insight and big-time love for the Blessed Mother. Patrick’s first big point: The Rosary is all about Jesus. Even though we’re repeating the Hail Mary, we’re actually meditating on key events in Jesus’ life: -The Annunciation The Baptism -The Passion -The Crucifixion -The Resurrection These are Jesus-focused mysteries. Mary is in the picture, sure... but as the ultimate mom. She is always directing us straight to her Son. Mary's Role: The Ultimate "Point You to Jesus" Mother If anyone’s worried that Mary might steal the spotlight, Patrick reminds us of John 2:5. “Do whatever He tells you.” That’s Mary talking. Not “Do whatever I say” or “Look at me!” but “Go to Jesus.” So even if someone’s spiritual life gets a little too “Marian-heavy”, Mary will lovingly redirect them. She’s the queen of humility. Scripture shows Mary as a constant presence throughout Jesus’ life: -She carried Him in the womb. -She nursed Him and raised Him. -She taught Him as a child. -She stood at the foot of the Cross. -She was there at Pentecost, too. No one was closer to Jesus in His earthly life. And God Himself chose her for this role. So... if she’s important to Him, she should be important to us too. The Bottom Line So don’t stress if you love Our Lady. You’re in excellent company, including Jesus Himself.

Today's Topics: Gospel - John 2, 1-11 - On the third day there was a wedding in Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and His disciples were also invited to the wedding. When the wine ran short, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, how does your concern affect me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servers, “Do whatever he tells you." Now there were six stone water jars there for Jewish ceremonial washings, each holding twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus told them, “Fill the jars with water.” So they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, “Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter.” So they took it. And when the headwaiter tasted the water that had become wine, without knowing where it came from (although the servers who had drawn the water knew), the headwaiter called the bridegroom and said to him, “Everyone serves good wine first, and then when people have drunk freely, an inferior one; but you have kept the good wine until now.” Jesus did this as the beginning of his signs in Cana in Galilee and so revealed his glory, and his disciples began to believe in him. 1, 2, 3, 4) Father William Wagner, ORC, joins Terry to discuss the Wedding feast at Cana and the role of the Blessed Mother in the Economy of Salvation

Friends of the Rosary,As we read today (John 14:1-6), Jesus said to his disciples:"Do not let your hearts be troubled.You have faith in God; have faith also in me.In my Father's house, there are many dwelling places.If there were not, would I have told youthat I am going to prepare a place for you?""I am the way and the truth and the life.No one comes to the Father except through me."Today is the memorial of St. Simon Stock (1165-1265), a hermit who received a vision of the Blessed Mother promising salvation to all those who wore the brown scapular of the Carmelite order. Mary showed Simon, a member of the Carmelite order, a brown scapular. This vision led to the widespread devotion to Mary over the following centuries.Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will. Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New York• ⁠May 16, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter Saint of the Day: St. Simon Stock; brought the Carmelite order from the Holy Land to Europe, and changed it from a hermit order to one of mendicant friars; received an apparition from the Blessed Mother in 1251, in which she gave him the brown scapular Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 5/16/25 Gospel: John 14:1-6

Faith Matters is a new weekly podcast for the Messenger newsletter of the Basilica School of Saint Mary, which gets distributed to Basilica School families. It features Father Edward Hathaway, the rector of the Basilica. In this week's episode, Fr. Hathaway ties the virtue of the month at the school -- patience -- to the Blessed Mother, who was the epitome of patience during her life. May is referred to as the month of Mary, so it's a very appropriate topic. 

Barb Ernster and Katie Moran share powerful ways to grow closer to the Blessed Mother during the Fatima season. Learn about the Rosary, the Miraculous Medal, the Brown Scapular, the Seven Sorrows, the Little Office of Mary, and more. Visit BlueArmyShrine.com or our YouTube and Facebook pages to watch the May 13 celebration from the Blue Army Shrine. Let this season be a time to deepen your love for Our Lady.

Friends of the Rosary,Today, May 13, the Catholic Church celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Fatima, or Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of Fátima (Nossa Senhora de Fátima).This feast commemorates the Blessed Virgin Mary's first of six appearances to three Portuguese shepherd children in 1917.During the apparitions, Mary revealed herself as Our Lady of the Rosary and conveyed messages about the importance of prayer and penance.The message of Fatima includes a call to conversion of heart, repentance from sin, love and trust in God, and a dedication to the Blessed Virgin Mary, especially through the daily prayer of the Rosary.On May 13th, 1917, the siblings Francisco and Jacinta Marto, aged 9 and 7 respectively, with their cousin Lucia Dos Santos, aged 10, saw inside a cloud the figure of a woman dressed in white who bore in her hand a rosary.Our Lady of Fatima asked them to return to that place in the following months, always on the 13th day.At those meetings, Our Lady of Fatima revealed startling facts to the children who were to attend, such as the end of the First World War and the threat of a second war, which was even more terrible. Other revelations concerned the political order of the world and the advent of Communist Russia.Mary also exhorted the three shepherd children: “Pray, pray very much. Make sacrifices for sinners. Many souls go to hell, because no one is willing to help them with sacrifice.”“In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph,” she reassured the children.In 1930, the Catholic Church recognized the supernatural nature of Our Lady of Fatima's apparitions. In her honor, a sanctuary was erected, and faithful worldwide still visit it as a pilgrimage destination.Today is also the traditional commemoration of Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Saint Peter Julian Eymard gave this title to our Blessed Mother in May 1868 to honor her relationship to the Holy Eucharist and to place her before us as a model in our devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.Ave Maria!Jesus, I Trust In You!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will. Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New York• May 13, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Earlier in the Catechism, we unpacked Mary as the Mother of Jesus. Now, we look at what it means for Mary to be the Mother of the Church. Fr. Mike makes it clear that, when he entrusts his disciples to Mary, his Mother, from the Cross, he's entrusting us to her as well. Today's readings are from Catechism paragraphs 963-970. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Maria Morera Johnson and Heidi Hess Saxton talk about their love of the Blessed Mother. Heidi Saxton is co-host of the CatholicMom.com Prayercast, and author of Stories of the Eucharist (OSV) and The Ave Prayer Book for Catholic Mothers (Ave). She is also senior acquisitions editor for Ave Maria Press. She and her husband Craig divide their time between northern Michigan and West Palm Beach, Florida. You can read about her adventures on Life on the Road Less Traveled.  Maria Morera Johnson, author of A Beautiful Second Act:, My Badass Book of Saints, Super Girls and Halo, and Our Lady of Charity: How a Cuban Devotion to Mary Helped Me Grow in Faith and Love writes about all the things that she loves. A cradle Catholic, she struggles with living in the world but not being of it, and blogs about those successes and failures, too.   Link in Show:· Read all articles by Heidi Hess Saxton Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson

Happy Easter Family! Join Amy, Vicky as they sit with Fr. Franco as he shares about his love for our Blessed Mother, Mary and invites you into a deeper relationship with her.   If you want more episodes likes this one, subscribe to join in on the fun! For more information about the Salesian Family please visit: https://salesians.org https://salesiansisters.org https://www.instagram.com/sym_bosco/ https://www.youtube.com/c/SalesiansofDonBosco https://www.facebook.com/salesianym https://www.salesianlaymissioners.org https://www.tiktok.com/@salesiansofdonbosco?lang=en

Fr. Mike highlights the moment God makes a covenant with David, promising him an everlasting dynasty, but reserving the building of the Temple to David's son Solomon. He also teaches us how 2 Samuel 7 foreshadows the fact that the Blessed Mother is the new Ark of the Covenant. Today's readings are 2 Samuel 6-7, 1 Chronicles 9, and Psalm 89. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

The message from Our Lady is clear, and it has been consistent. Fr Rick Wendell breaks down exactly what we are being told from heaven through the powerful apparitions of the Blessed Mother. -------------------------------- Rosary Coast to Coast HERE: https://rosarycoasttocoast.com/#home -------------------------------- More about Fr. Rick Wendell HERE: https://www.fatherrickwendell.com/ -------------------------------- PATREON - Help support this podcast by becoming a US Grace Force PATRON here: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=25398590 -------------------------------- Subscribe to our NEW US Grace Force YouTube channel! US GRACE FORCE 2.0. Don't miss any new, great content!! https://youtube.com/@USGraceForce2.0?si=zq47qEqPITXnIDkg -------------------------------- Join the US Grace Force Team HERE: https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001ESuSGaJpYPCG2iUdd4j4bkKwd4gkh2ZUVbam_Ty9rCn6blH6_U3cI2D8UvSLEcSzHnC4eq2UWmK1I0SbEw0SPKqnkZ2j0Z4J4D-_m4dD6CKJU9day-bBa8Qnx4dv7RLDIVlYAjL1JWsjfUTNPH2jQIVY9gbdbz4O4oMIzv5V1dT_upQsD8cX86iq_5Y-x4eLrTVtdOmA24s%3D&fbclid=IwY2xjawFRvvdleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdo526R1rgNAIW76yyQnVbo957e1TgOoQ4RH3Tr84D8376Y7jng09gtlOw_aem_H7Y7Ej6cF6-nPyfOZ4qMTQ -------------------------------- PRAY THE ROSARY: The Joyful Mysteries: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMAR9MEN1pE&t=656s --------------------------------- The Sorrowful Mysteries: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHUkx66oAxE&t=311s --------------------------------- The Glorious Mysteries: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pg_JWsxS6EA&t=207s --------------------------------- The Luminous Mysteries: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVL5CqBr3CA&t=198s --------------------------------- The Full Rosary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44zL1kFIvP8&t=1765s --------------------------------- Join our US Grace Force Facebook group: https://usgraceforce.com/ --------------------------------- Be Ready Emergency Preparedness Course: Be prepared to Care for and Protect your Family in times of Natural Disasters, Emergencies, Civil Unrest, Economic Collapse, and more. Sign up for the course HERE: https://brcoalition.com/ --------------------------------- Go HERE to check out the BR Coalition and get great training Body, Mind & Soul! https://brcoalition.com/ Become part of one of the fastest growing online Catholic Membership sites. --------------------------------- Get your hands on some great US Grace Force T-shirts! https://us-grace-force.creator-spring.com/ --------------------------------- The seven promises given to St Bridget of Sweden for those who devote themselves to her Seven Sorrows. 1. I will grant peace to their families. 2. They will be enlightened about the Divine Mysteries. 3. I will console them in their pains, and I will accompany them in their work. 4. I will give them as much as they ask for as long as it does not oppose the adorable will of my Divine Son or the sanctification of their souls. 5. I will defend them in their spiritual battles with the infernal enemy and I will protect them at every instant of their lives. 6. I will visibly help them at the moment of their death—they will see the face of their mother. 7. I have obtained this grace from my divine Son, that those who propagate this devotion to my tears and dolors will be taken directly from this earthly life to eternal happiness, since all their sins will be forgiven and my Son and I will be their eternal consolation and joy.

Fr. Michael Copenhagen is a Melkite (Eastern Catholic) priest, husband, and father, at St. Nicholas the Wonderworker Melkite Catholic Church in Gates, New York. He holds a Bachelors of Sacred Theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas in Rome. DESCRIPTION: In Today's Show:   Why don't more priests offer continuous Catechism classes? If the Blessed Mother was protected from sin, why not the rest of humanity? Is it allowable to listen to an Orthodox Divine Liturgy since they are not in union with the Holy Catholic Church? How binding are abstinence rules put forth by the parents of a household during Lent? In the Eastern Rite, are Thursdays dedicated to Saints Peter, Paul and St. Nicholas? Or all the apostles and St. Nicholas?  Is there any hope that the eastern Catholic Churches will grow in number? Did Christ descend into Hell? Can Eastern Catholics become pope? What is the Byzantine Catholic teaching on Thomism? What is the Eastern Rite's solution to getting rid of spite, resentment and anger? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

Read OnlineThe Savior of the World died a cruel death upon the Cross. His broken body was laid in the tomb. His disciples scattered and were fearful that they would be next. But our Blessed Mother kept vigil in the perfect hope that her Son would soon rise.Traditionally, Saturdays within the Church year are dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This ancient tradition developed in part due to the belief that, as others were filled with fear and confusion, Mother Mary kept vigil on Holy Saturday in prayerful anticipation of Jesus' resurrection. She knew her Son would rise. She had hope beyond hope. Her faith was certain. Her love kept her vigilant as she awaited the return of her Son.For many centuries, it has been suggested that the first person to whom Jesus appeared after His Resurrection was His own mother. Pope Saint John Paul II believed this. Saint Ignatius of Loyola believed it. And many others throughout the centuries shared this belief.For these reasons, Holy Saturday is an ideal day to ponder the pondering heart of our Blessed Mother. There are several times in Sacred Scripture where we are told that Mother Mary pondered the mysteries of her Son's life in her heart. She was one of the few who stood by Him in His agony and death. She stood before the Cross and prayerfully pondered His perfect sacrifice. The Blessed Mother held His dead body in her arms and pondered where His spirit had gone. And today she keeps vigil, pondering His imminent return to her.Ponder her pondering heart. Try to unite your own heart with hers. Try to understand what she was thinking and hoping. Try to feel what she felt this sorrowful day. Try to experience her faith, her trust and her joyful expectation. So many people in this world walk in despair and confusion.So many have lost hope in the new life that awaits them. So many have their own form of interior death without allowing God to draw them into His Resurrection. So many people today need the hope that was so alive in the heart of our Blessed Mother that first Holy Saturday. Ponder the reality of Holy Saturday in silence this day and allow the glorious heart of our Blessed Mother to inspire you and draw you more deeply into her life of faith, hope and love.Dearest Mother Mary, on that first Holy Saturday, you kept vigil for your Son. You allowed the divine gift of hope to grow within you, and you allowed that hope to be your strength in the midst of the horror of the Cross. Pray for me that I may ponder your beautiful heart this day so that I, too, may be filled with hope as I endure the challenges of this earthly life. Give me a heart of joyful anticipation as I await the grace of new life our Lord so deeply desires to bestow upon me. Mother Mary, pray for me.  Jesus, I do trust in You.  Guercino, 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.

Read Online“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest.” Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.” He said in reply, “I tell you, if they keep silent, the stones will cry out!” Luke 19:38–40At the foot of the Mount of Olives was the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus agonized in prayer and was arrested. But several days before that happened, our Lord crossed over that hill next to the Mount of Olives with His Apostles and then approached the slope heading toward the Garden. As He descended, He encountered “the whole multitude of his disciples” who “began to praise God aloud with joy for all the mighty deeds they had seen.” They then cried out: “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Peace in heaven and glory in the highest.” They met Him within eyeshot of the gate of the city of Jerusalem. This must have left the Twelve in amazement.Among those who were amazed were the Pharisees. But they were not amazed with joy. Their amazement was caused by envy and led to condemnation. Jesus' response was very clear: “I tell you, if they keep silent, the stones will cry out!” That begs the question: If these disciples had not offered our Lord this glorious welcome, would the stones truly have cried out? Most certainly they would have! They did so just several days later after Jesus had been abandoned by the crowds.Recall that when Jesus was crucified, almost every one of these disciples abandoned Him. They fled in fear. Even most of the Twelve ran and hid. Only our Blessed Mother, Saint John and a few others remained. Therefore, when Jesus died on the Cross, abandoned by the crowds, this prophecy of His came true. “And behold, the veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked, rocks were split, tombs were opened, and the bodies of many saints who had fallen asleep were raised” (Matthew 27:51–52).We must never keep silent in praise and worship of God. There is an important lesson to learn from these two moments from that first Holy Week. At the beginning, as Jesus entered Jerusalem with much excitement, there were many who offered Him praise. It's easy to give praise and glory to God when it is popular and when many others are doing so. Contrast this with the end of Holy Week when Jesus was persecuted and killed. Suddenly, praise and open acclamations were not that popular. Fear had the effect of silencing the crowds and ending their worship of our Lord. For that reason, the stones did cry out and the earth quaked. As we enter this Holy Week, consider whether you are more like the “whole multitude” of Jesus' disciples who praised Him when it was easy and popular, or whether you are more like our Blessed Mother and Saint John who remained faithful to Him when it was anything but popular to do so. Do you persevere in your praise and adoration of God during difficult times? Or do you allow fear of what others may say, fear of rejection and other forms of humiliation to deter you from your sacred calling? Reflect, today, upon these two contrasting moments of that first Holy Week. Join, today, with the crowds as they acclaim Jesus as King. As you do, turn your eyes to the King Whom you worship. Choose to follow Him to His betrayal, His suffering and His death. Commit yourself to fidelity, especially when it is hard to do so. Do not waver in your commitment. Look at the love in the heart of Jesus' own mother and pray to her that you will have the courage she had to remain faithful to our Lord, lest the stones be forced to cry out in your place. Most glorious King, You were fittingly worshiped and adored as You entered Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover. I commit myself to that adoration and praise, and I pray that I will honor and love You, not only when it is easy but also when it is unpopular. May I never allow fear to deter me from my love of You and follow You all the way to the glorious throne of Your Cross. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image via Adobe StockSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

For those with any lingering doubts or questions, the Catechism offers five reasons for Mary's perpetual virginity. Fr. Mike digs into each reason and explains what each of them means for us as spiritual sons and daughters of our Immaculate Mother. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 502-511. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

The Catechism tackles a few important issues regarding Mary, the mother of God—her motherhood, her virginal conception of Jesus, and her perpetual virginity. Fr. Mike reminds us that, regardless of the opinions of translators and modern theologians, our Faith steers us towards a correct understanding of our Blessed Mother. Today's readings are Catechism paragraphs 495-501. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.