Podcasts about Blessed Sacrament

Come listen to the moving finale of St. Katharine Drexel's life. Amid grief and searching, Katharine Drexel's faith is tested. A bold encounter with the pope ignites her call to religious life, leading her to champion the marginalized and the founding a new religious order: The Sisters of The Blessed Sacrament.Today's episode is a special public release of the story of Saint Katharine Drexel that was part of our 2025 Kids Lenten Challenge on Hallow called The Little Way. We can't wait for you to hear an all new season of Saints Alive starting this September!  Saints Alive is brought to you by the #1 Catholic Prayer App, Hallow! Sign up today with a 30-day free trial! Please rate, review and share with friends and family! Find resources on the saints, discussion questions and more about our team by visiting our website: https://www.saintsalivepodcast.com/

Patrick Madrid takes a call from Matt in Huntington Beach, who asks a very relatable question: How do I keep prayer intentional when I have so many intentions that it feels like a checklist? Patrick admits right away that he’s not speaking as a prayer “expert,” but as a fellow traveler who wrestles with the same distractions. He encourages you to pray at times and in places where the noise of life is quieter -- whether that’s at home in the early morning or during a visit to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. But he also affirms that prayer doesn’t have to be limited to those moments; it can happen anywhere -- in the car, at the grocery store, or in the middle of a busy day. What matters most, Patrick says, is not the absence of distractions but what you do with them. He suggests offering those distractions to God directly: “Lord, I’m trying to pray, but my mind is scattered. I give you these distractions too.” That effort, he says, is pleasing to God because it shows love and persistence. Patrick also draws on Ignatian spirituality, recommending a prayer method that involves putting yourself into the scene of Scripture or the mysteries of the Rosary. For example, while praying the Sorrowful Mysteries, you can imagine yourself standing at the pillar as Jesus is scourged, which helps stir gratitude and deepen prayer. He goes on to outline the stages of prayer: -Discursive prayer -- the “shallow end,” made up of spontaneous prayers or rote prayers like the Our Father -Meditation -- a deeper form, where the mind and heart actively engage with the truths of the Faith -Contemplation -- the “deep end” of prayer, described by saints like Teresa of Avila as gazing on God with love, much like beholding a beautiful sunset in awe On the specific problem of prayer becoming a long “laundry list,” Patrick introduces the idea of virtual intentions. Instead of naming every single person or need individually each time, you can entrust categories of people or petitions to God: “Lord, I pray for all those I promised to pray for” or “I pray for all who have died.” This way, prayer remains heartfelt without being mechanical. Finally, Patrick recommends two spiritual classics to grow in prayer: Introduction to the Devout Life by St. Francis de Sales and The Interior Castle by St. Teresa of Avila. Both provide wisdom on moving from simple, everyday prayer to deeper intimacy with God. Patrick reminds you: the key is not perfection, but intention. As long as you’re sincerely engaging with God rather than just “clickety clacking” through words, your prayer life will bear fruit.

Father Jack Bentz, SJ, is a Jesuit priest who works in campus ministry at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. He also has a new podcast called “Catholics in Ordinary Time,” which is just an awesome title. The podcast was inspired in large part by his work during the Synod on Synodality at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Hollywood, where he served before moving to Spokane. The parish conducted a whole bunch of listening sessions, just as thousands of parishes around the country did, and Fr. Jack liked that approach. So his new podcast is centered on conversations with all different sorts of Catholics, with him serving as the interviewer and listener as his guests share their stories of faith. Host Mike Jordan Laskey really likes the idea behind his show, because while there are so many different Catholic podcasts out there hosted by members of the clergy, podcasting priests are usually in the position of explainer, apologist or teacher. There's certainly a place for those types of shows, but in this flipped format, Fr. Jack models how a synodal church is a listening church. Fr. Jack and Miked talked about the things Fr. Jack has learned about today's young adults through his work at Gonzaga and at Blessed Sacrament, not to mention his decades of ministry in settings like theatre and other university campus ministry locations. Fr. Jack also shared a bit about his own vocation story, and how a kid growing up on a cattle ranch in rural Oregon came to be a Jesuit. You can find Catholics in Ordinary Time wherever you get podcasts. Catholics in Ordinary Time podcast: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-catholics-in-ordinary-time-279045450/ Fr. Jack's Substack: https://substack.com/@jackbentzsj www.jesuits.org/ www.beajesuit.org/ twitter.com/jesuitnews facebook.com/Jesuits instagram.com/wearethejesuits youtube.com/societyofjesus www.jesuitmedialab.org/

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saint Clare, Virgin Lectionary: 413The Saint of the day is Saint Clare of AssisiSaint Clare of Assisi's Story One of the more sugary movies made about Francis of Assisi pictures Clare as a golden-haired beauty floating through sun-drenched fields, a sort of one-woman counterpart to the new Franciscan Order. The beginning of her religious life was indeed movie material. Having refused to marry at 15, Clare was moved by the dynamic preaching of Francis. He became her lifelong friend and spiritual guide. At 18, Clare escaped from her father's home one night, was met on the road by friars carrying torches, and in the poor little chapel called the Portiuncula received a rough woolen habit, exchanged her jeweled belt for a common rope with knots in it, and sacrificed her long tresses to Francis' scissors. He placed her in a Benedictine convent, which her father and uncles immediately stormed in rage. Clare clung to the altar of the church, threw aside her veil to show her cropped hair, and remained adamant. Sixteen days later her sister Agnes joined her. Others came. They lived a simple life of great poverty, austerity, and complete seclusion from the world, according to a Rule which Francis gave them as a Second Order. At age 21, Francis obliged Clare under obedience to accept the office of abbess, one she exercised until her death. hbspt.cta.load(465210, '696def14-21e8-4eb1-857d-6eca58078dc1', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); The Poor Ladies went barefoot, slept on the ground, ate no meat, and observed almost complete silence. Later Clare, like Francis, persuaded her sisters to moderate this rigor: “Our bodies are not made of brass.” The greatest emphasis, of course, was on gospel poverty. They possessed no property, even in common, subsisting on daily contributions. When even the pope tried to persuade Clare to mitigate this practice, she showed her characteristic firmness: “I need to be absolved from my sins, but I do not wish to be absolved from the obligation of following Jesus Christ.” Contemporary accounts glow with admiration of Clare’s life in the convent of San Damiano in Assisi. She served the sick and washed the feet of the begging nuns. She came from prayer, it was said, with her face so shining it dazzled those about her. She suffered serious illness for the last 27 years of her life. Her influence was such that popes, cardinals, and bishops often came to consult her—Clare herself never left the walls of San Damiano. Francis always remained her great friend and inspiration. Clare was always obedient to his will and to the great ideal of gospel life which he was making real. A well-known story concerns her prayer and trust. Clare had the Blessed Sacrament placed on the walls of the convent when it faced attack by invading Saracens. “Does it please you, O God, to deliver into the hands of these beasts the defenseless children I have nourished with your love? I beseech you, dear Lord, protect these whom I am now unable to protect.” To her sisters she said, “Don't be afraid. Trust in Jesus.” The Saracens fled. Reflection The 41 years of Clare's religious life are scenarios of sanctity: an indomitable resolve to lead the simple, literal gospel life as Francis taught her; courageous resistance to the ever-present pressure to dilute the ideal; a passion for poverty and humility; an ardent life of prayer; and a generous concern for her sisters. Saint Clare is the Patron Saint of: Protection from eye disordersTelevision Read: Poor Clare, Rich in Spirit Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Send us a textIn this ]episode of the Gotta Be Saints Podcast, we dive into the remarkable life and legacy of Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, one of the most influential Catholic voices of the 20th century. I'm joined by Sherry Hughes, author of the new book Fulton J. Sheen: Convert Maker, to explore the bold witness, deep spirituality, and evangelistic fire that marked Sheen's life and ministry.Known for his groundbreaking use of radio and television, Fulton Sheen reached millions with the truth of the Gospel—yet his most powerful work often happened one soul at a time. Sherry shares personal stories, historical insights, and moving examples of Sheen's impact on the lives of countless converts—from New York streetwalkers to Protestant ministers, politicians, and beyond.In this episode, we reflect on what made Sheen such a captivating figure—and how we too can become humble and courageous witnesses to Christ in our everyday lives.

Full Text of ReadingsEighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 114The Saint of the day is Saint Peter Julian EymardSaint Peter Julian Eymard’s Story Born in La Mure d'Isère in southeastern France, Peter Julian's faith journey drew him from being a priest in the Diocese of Grenoble in 1834, to joining the Marists in 1839, to founding the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament in 1856. In addition to those changes, Peter Julian coped with poverty, his father's initial opposition to Peter's vocation, serious illness, a Jansenistic overemphasis on sin, and the difficulties of getting diocesan and later papal approval for his new religious community. His years as a Marist, including service as a provincial leader, saw the deepening of his Eucharistic devotion, especially through his preaching of Forty Hours in many parishes. Inspired at first by the idea of reparation for indifference to the Eucharist, Peter Julian was eventually attracted to a more positive spirituality of Christ-centered love. Members of the men's community which Peter founded alternated between an active apostolic life and contemplating Jesus in the Eucharist. He and Marguerite Guillot founded the women’s Congregation of the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament. Peter Julian Eymard was beatified in 1925 and canonized in 1962, one day after Vatican II's first session ended. Reflection In every century, sin has been painfully real in the life of the Church. It is easy to give in to despair, to speak so strongly of human failings that people may forget the immense and self-sacrificing love of Jesus, as his death on the cross and his gift of the Eucharist make evident. Peter Julian knew that the Eucharist was key to helping Catholics live out their baptism and preach by word and example the Good News of Jesus Christ. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Lectionary: 405The Saint of the day is Saint Alphonsus LiguoriSaint Alphonsus Liguori’s Story Moral theology, Vatican II said, should be more thoroughly nourished by Scripture, and show the nobility of the Christian vocation of the faithful and their obligation to bring forth fruit in charity for the life of the world. Alphonsus, declared patron of moral theologians by Pius XII in 1950, would rejoice in that statement. In his day, Alphonsus fought for the liberation of moral theology from the rigidity of Jansenism. His moral theology, which went through 60 editions in the century following him, concentrated on the practical and concrete problems of pastors and confessors. If a certain legalism and minimalism crept into moral theology, it should not be attributed to this model of moderation and gentleness. At the University of Naples, Alphonsus received a doctorate in both canon and civil law by acclamation, at the age of 16, but he soon gave up the practice of law for apostolic activity. He was ordained a priest, and concentrated his pastoral efforts on popular parish missions, hearing confessions, and forming Christian groups. He founded the Redemptorist congregation in 1732. It was an association of priests and brothers living a common life, dedicated to the imitation of Christ, and working mainly in popular missions for peasants in rural areas. Almost as an omen of what was to come later, he found himself deserted after a while by all his original companions except one lay brother. But the congregation managed to survive and was formally approved 17 years later, though its troubles were not over. Alphonsus' great pastoral reforms were in the pulpit and confessional—replacing the pompous oratory of the time with simplicity, and the rigorism of Jansenism with kindness. His great fame as a writer has somewhat eclipsed the fact that for 26 years he traveled up and down the Kingdom of Naples preaching popular missions. He was made bishop at age 66 after trying to reject the honor, and at once instituted a thorough reform of his diocese. His greatest sorrow came toward the end of his life. The Redemptorists, precariously continuing after the suppression of the Jesuits in 1773, had difficulty in getting their Rule approved by the Kingdom of Naples. Alphonsus acceded to the condition that they possess no property in common, but with the connivance of a high Redemptorist official, a royal official changed the Rule substantially. Alphonsus, old, crippled and with very bad sight, signed the document, unaware that he had been betrayed. The Redemptorists in the Papal States then put themselves under the pope, who withdrew those in Naples from the jurisdiction of Alphonsus. It was only after his death that the branches were united. At 71, Alphonsus was afflicted with rheumatic pains which left incurable bending of his neck. Until it was straightened a little, the pressure of his chin caused a raw wound on his chest. He suffered a final 18 months of “dark night” scruples, fears, temptations against every article of faith and every virtue, interspersed with intervals of light and relief, when ecstasies were frequent. Alphonsus is best known for his moral theology, but he also wrote well in the field of spiritual and dogmatic theology. His Glories of Mary is one of the great works on that subject, and his book Visits to the Blessed Sacrament went through 40 editions in his lifetime, greatly influencing the practice of this devotion in the Church. Reflection Saint Alphonsus was known above all as a practical man who dealt in the concrete rather than the abstract. His life is indeed a practical model for the everyday Christian who has difficulty recognizing the dignity of Christian life amid the swirl of problems, pain, misunderstanding and failure. Alphonsus suffered all these things. He is a saint because he was able to maintain an intimate sense of the presence of the suffering Christ through it all. Saint Alphonsus Liguori is the Patron Saint of: TheologiansVocations Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

There shall be no strange god among you nor shall you worship any alien god. I, the LORD, am your God who led you forth from the land of Egypt. Sing with joy to God our help.A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 13:54-58, today's readings).But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and in his own house." And he did not work many mighty deeds there because of their lack of faith.The psalm for today presents the words of the Lord to the Israelites. "There shall be no strange god among you. . . ." In the Gospel, Jesus is in his hometown of Nazareth among neighbors and family friends, when they say of him: "Where did this man get such wisdom and mighty deeds? Is he not the carpenter's son?" They name Mary, and his brothers and sisters, family members, and say out of bewilderment. "Where did this man get all this." Among his own townspeople, Jesus would have been no stranger, yet they rejected him despite witnessing his words and miraculous works. The greater truth that some would come to believe is that Jesus was no strange god among them but the Son of the Most High.Father in heaven, I know that Jesus is present in many ways, foremost in the real presence of the Blessed Sacrament. Help me see Jesus also present in the faces of the people I encounter today and in their words and actions. Those closest who bear Christ and manifest his presence are often the ones most taken for granted. Give me the grace, Lord, to pause and see in them, as Saint Paul said, "whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious." Let me consider how Christ is in my midst, right her in my native place. Saint Alphonsus Liguori, pray for us!Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Day 8 St. Alphonsus you have said:St.-Alphonsus-8 "Loving souls can find no greater delight than to be in the company of those whom they love. If we, then, love Jesus Christ much, behold we are now in his presence. Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament sees us and hears us; shall we, then, say nothing to Him? Let us console ourselves in His company; let us rejoice in His glory, and in the love which so many enamoured souls bear Him in the Most Holy Sacrament. Let us desire that all should love Jesus in the Holy Sacrament, and consecrate their hearts to Him; at least let us consecrate our affections to Him. He should be all our love and our whole desire." The post Novena to St. Alphonsus Liguori -Day 8 – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

  Maria Morera Johnson and Inés Mersch talk about tending to our spiritual and physical needs. Inés Huber Mersch is a faithful Catholic wife, mother, and grandmother residing in Mobile, Alabama. Her strong attraction to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament led to her being invited to participate in the steering committee that brought Perpetual Adoration to the Archdiocese of Mobile and continues as one of the schedulers. She has also been a guest writer at Catholic Mom. Links in Show: Broken By Me by Inés Huber Mersch Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson

In this episode of Fatima Today, Barb Ernster and Katie Moran talk about Venerable Fulton Sheen's secret to powerful preaching—spending one hour every day with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. He never missed a Holy Hour in 55 years and said, “That's where power comes from. That's where sermons are born. That's where every good thought is conceived.” They go through his 10 reasons for doing a Holy Hour and share how this time with Jesus can change your life. They also talk about St. Francisco of Fatima, who loved to sit quietly in church with Jesus, and Sister Lucia, who found wisdom and direction through her time in prayer. This episode will inspire you to make time for Jesus and discover the peace and power that comes from being with Him.

Full Text of ReadingsThursday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 398The Saint of the day is Saint Sharbel MakhloufSaint Sharbel Makhlouf’s Story Although this saint never traveled far from the Lebanese village of Beka-Kafra where he was born, his influence has spread widely. Joseph Zaroun Maklouf was raised by an uncle because his father, a mule driver, died when Joseph was only three. At the age of 23, Joseph joined the Monastery of St. Maron at Annaya, Lebanon, and took the name Sharbel in honor of a second-century martyr. He professed his final vows in 1853, and was ordained six years later. Following the example of the fifth-century Saint Maron, Sharbel lived as a hermit from 1875, until his death. His reputation for holiness prompted people to seek him to receive a blessing and to be remembered in his prayers. He followed a strict fast and was very devoted to the Blessed Sacrament. When his superiors occasionally asked him to administer the sacraments to nearby villages, Sharbel did so gladly. He died in the late afternoon on Christmas Eve. Christians and non-Christians soon made his tomb a place of pilgrimage and of cures. Pope Paul VI beatified Sharbel in 1965, and canonized him 12 years later. Reflection John Paul II often said that the Church has two lungs—East and West—and it must learn to breathe using both of them. Remembering saints like Sharbel helps the Church to appreciate both the diversity and unity present in the Catholic Church. Like all the saints, Sharbel points us to God and invites us to cooperate generously with God's grace, no matter what our situation in life may be. As our prayer life becomes deeper and more honest, we become more ready to make that generous response. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Thursday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Optional Memorial of St. Sharbel Makhlouf, 1828-1898; at age 23, he joined the Monastery of St. Maron at Annaya, Lebanon; he professed final vows in 1853, and was ordained six years later; he lived as a hermit from 1875 until his death; he followed a strict fast and was very devoted to the Blessed Sacrament; when his superiors occasionally asked him to administer the sacraments to nearby villages, Sharbel did so gladly; Sharbel died in the late afternoon of Christmas eve, 1898 Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 7/24/25 Gospel: Matthew 13:10-17

Patrick discusses a question from Nicole about whether growing a specific culture at Mass divides the parish, is the Bible ok with getting your ears pierced?, Alfredo wants to learn more about studying the Catechism plus other interesting and engaging topics. Email – Do you think we can make inroads to mass attendance if we continue to press the Eucharist and the Real Presence? Cindy – On serving the needs of both the Spanish speaking and English speaking communities at Mass. Kathleen – What are Patrick’s thoughts on how the Blessed Sacrament is to be reserved in the Tabernacle? Nicole - What if the pastor is being told to grow specific cultures in their parish? I think it is dividing the parish. I think we should go back to the Latin Mass to unify people. Mary Grace - Is there anything against getting your ears pierced in the bible? Alfredo - 1849 CCC: Do I need other books that Saint Augustine wrote in order to study the CCC?

Friends of the Rosary,Between 1961 and 1965, in the small village of Garabandal, in northern Spain, the Virgin Mary appeared to four girls, who transmitted Marian messages of repentance, prayer, and sacrifice.Conchita, Mari Cruz, Mari Loli, and Jacinta saw the Virgin Mary over 2,000 times during this period. The Holy Virgin interacted with the girls like an authentic mother, winning them over with her tenderness and affectionate gestures.The Immaculata emphasized the importance of the Eucharist and the need for personal conversion and a "divine reset."At the Pines at dusk, the girls read the text of a message:"We must make many sacrifices, do much penance, and visit the Blessed Sacrament. But first, we must be very good. Otherwise, a chastisement will befall us. The cup is already filling up, and if we do not change, a very great chastisement will come upon us."Mary also interacted with the people who came to witness the apparitions, giving each person who went to see the apparitions a sign or proof of her presence.We pray today's Rosary from Garabandal.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 YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠July 20, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have.The Rosary is foremost among them.Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.The Great Rosary Campaign is a yearlong mission for the conversion of cultural leaders. We will announce a weekly call to pray every Sunday for specific fallen-away Catholics and non-Catholics.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign, we will pray for the conversion of Rick Warren, the famous protestant author of "The Purpose Driven Life" and "megachurch" pastor.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a Holy Hour of Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

Friends of the Rosary,Today, July 14, in the United States, we celebrate the Feast Day of St. Kateri Tekakwitha (1656-1680), the first native American to be declared a Saint.Born in 1656 near Auriesville, New York, she was the daughter of a pagan Mohawk chief and a Christian Algonquin woman.When she was a child, a smallpox epidemic attacked her tribe, and both her parents and brother died. She was left with permanent scars on her face and impaired eyesight. Her uncle, who had now become chief of the tribe, adopted her, and her aunts began planning her marriage while she was still very young.A Jesuit missionary baptized Kateri (taking the name Katery after Catherine of Siena) Tekakwitha at the age of twenty. Like her namesake, she was drawn into intimate communion with God and suffered persecution for his sake, incurring the hostility of her tribe.She devoted her life to prayer, penitential practices, and caring for the sick and aged in Caughnawaga, a Jesuit mission near Montreal, where she escaped. There, she spent the last three years of her life giving herself to prayer, mortification, and works of charity.Moved by God's love for humanity, she saw the dignity in each of her people. She was devoted to the Eucharist and to Jesus Christ crucified. Known as the “Lily of the Mohawks,” Kateri spent her short life dedicating herself entirely to God through long hours of prayer and practicing severe fasting as penance for the conversion of her nation.She died at the age of 24. Witnesses reported that within minutes of her death, the scars from smallpox completely vanished, and her face shone with radiant beauty.Devotion to Kateri began immediately after her death, and her body, enshrined in Caughnawaga, near Montreal, in Quebec — where she grew in holiness and devotion to the Blessed Sacrament — is visited by many each year.Additionally, Our Lady of Martyrs Shrine, in Fultonville, NY, the birthplace of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, is a great place to make a pilgrimage. Another shrine to visit is the St. Kateri Tekakwitha National Shrine and Historic Site in Fonda, NY.She was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1980, and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21, 2012.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 YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• July 14, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Father Abbot Benedict Nivakoff of Abbey of Saint Benedict of the Mountain in Norcia, Italy joins to talk earthquake recovery and the Feast of St. Benedict. Father Mitch Pacwa's Cultural Connections segment covers the Latin Mass. Chris McCarthy of the Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament visits to discuss Adoration Sodality. Plus, Chuck Gaidica gives his weather perspective surrounding the tragic floods in Texas, and Fr. Andrew Hofer and Fr. Philip Nolan highlight the Our Father prayer and it's offering of hope in this Jubilee year.

Firework and explosion experts weigh in on the deadly Esparto warehouse explosion. Also, Davis Science Cafe explores DNA analysis and forensic science. Finally, a Dave Brubeck benefit concert for the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.

July 7th, 2025: Fix The Church Crisis with the Blessed Sacrament; Potentiality of His Precious Blood;  The Saviour of Mankind; The Precious Blood - Be Shocked at the Price of Our Salvation 

In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have.The Rosary is foremost among them.Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.The Great Rosary Campaign is a yearlong mission for the conversion of cultural leaders. We will announce a weekly call to pray every Sunday for specific fallen-away Catholics and non-Catholics.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign, we will pray for the conversion of protestant "mega-church" pastor and baptized Catholic, Mark Driscoll.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a Holy Hour of Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament of the Eucharist.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

Maria Morera Johnson is joined by Inés Huber Mersch for a conversation about the Fruits of the Spirit, and how we can cultivate the virtues in our family.   Inés Huber Mersch is a faithful Catholic wife, mother, and grandmother residing in Mobile, Alabama. Her strong attraction to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament led to her being invited to participate in the steering committee that brought Perpetual Adoration to the Archdiocese of Mobile and continues as one of the schedulers. She has also been a guest writer at Catholic Mom. Links in Show: Broken By Me by Inés Huber Mersch Read all articles by Maria Morera Johnson

When we practice our sports, instruments, arts, we become a better baseball player, trumpeter, or artist. However, when we sit with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament we become more like Him, we become saints.  Cari Reagan shares this message with the 4th-8th grade students in Summer Children's Faith Formation before a time of Eucharistic Adoration.  Come, follow us: Parish Website  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  YouTube  |  Spotify Music

Msgr. Esseff reflects on the readings for the great feast of Corpus Christi. He discusses the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The tragedy becomes when we look upon the Blessed Sacrament as a "something" instead of a "Someone". The post Corpus Christi Sunday – Building a Kingdom of Love with Msgr. John Esseff – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Friends of the Rosary,Today is the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, also known as Corpus Christi, when we commemorate the institution of the Eucharistic sacrament and celebrate our faith in the Eucharist.Saint John Paul II reminded us, “the Church solemnly bears in procession the Eucharist, publicly proclaiming that the sacrifice of Christ is for the salvation of the whole world.”The Eucharist gives us confidence that Christ abides with us through all the sorrows of our life, sanctifying us and leading us to his presence in heaven.J.R.R. Tolkien wrote, “Out of the darkness of my life, I put before you the one great thing to love on earth: the Blessed Sacrament. There you will find romance, glory, honor, fidelity, and the true way of all your loves on earth.”Today's Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ reflects the devotional movement on the Sacrament of the Altar. It's also a doctrinal response to heretical teaching on the mystery of the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. It was extended to the entire Latin Church by Urban IV in 1264.In the main reading of the Gospel (Luke 9:11b–17), Christ Jesus miraculously feeds a crowd of five thousand with loaves and dried fish. He makes a meal that satisfies and gives sustenance for the day to this enormous group of tired and hungry people.Thomas Aquinas explained that the great metaphor for the Eucharist is sustenance, daily food for the journey.As the body needs physical nourishment to get us through the day-to-day,  the spirit needs spiritual nourishment.In our spiritual life, we must eat and drink, or we will not have strength.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 YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• June 22, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

June 20th, 2025:  Why Should We Believe in the Blessed Sacrament; Corpus Christi - Change Your Parish & Society; Nothing but You, O Lord; Nourishment for Your Soul

Embark on a truly unexpected adventure as we journey to Hanceville, Alabama, to explore the awe-inspiring Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Melea is joined by Chris McCarthy, Outreach Manager for the Shrine, to unveil the history and breathtaking details of this 13th-century Italian-inspired architectural marvel. Discover its unique design, serene atmosphere, and the profound spiritual peace it offers pilgrims and visitors from around the world. This episode highlights how the Shrine provides a powerful spiritual retreat from the world's chaos, inviting all to experience its tranquil beauty. Follow North Alabama on Social Media! ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ The Unexpected Adventures in North Alabama Podcast is a part of the ⁠⁠Destination Marketing Podcast Network⁠⁠. It is hosted by Melea Hames and produced by ⁠⁠Brand Revolt⁠⁠. To learn more about the Destination Marketing Podcast Network and to listen to our other shows, please visit ⁠⁠https://thedmpn.com/⁠⁠. If you are interested in becoming a part of the network, please email ⁠⁠adam@thebrandrevolt.com⁠⁠.

Full Text of ReadingsTuesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 366The Saint of the day is Saint Joseph CafassoSaint Joseph Cafasso's story Even as a young man, Joseph loved to attend Mass and was known for his humility and fervor in prayer. After his ordination, he was assigned to a seminary in Turin. There he worked especially against the spirit of Jansenism—an excessive preoccupation with sin and damnation. He used the works of Saint Francis de Sales and Saint Alphonsus Liguori to moderate the rigorism popular at the seminary. Joseph recommended membership in the Secular Franciscan Order to priests. He urged devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and encouraged daily Communion. In addition to his teaching duties, Joseph was an excellent preacher, confessor, and retreat master. Noted for his work with condemned prisoners, he helped many of them die at peace with God. Joseph urged one of his former pupils—Saint John Bosco—to establish the Salesians congregation to work with the youth of Turin. Joseph Cafasso died in 1860, and was canonized in 1947. His liturgical feast is celebrated on June 23. Reflection Devotion to the Eucharist gave energy to all Joseph's other activities. Long prayer before the Blessed Sacrament has been characteristic of many Catholics who have lived out the gospel well: Saint Francis, Bishop Fulton Sheen, Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, and Saint Teresa of Calcutta among them. Saint Joseph Cafasso is the Patron Saint of: PrisonersPrussia Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

6-17-25: Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament – Fr. Adam Lowe by

Join Lisa and Laura for our series Names of God. In biblical times, names were of great importance—they conveyed a person's essence, history, nature, or character. As we explore the various names of God in the Old Testament, we gain insight into His character. With each name, we will learn a new attribute, deepening our understanding of and growing closer to God. In today's episode, we explore our sixth name, Jehovah Shammah—the Lord is There. This is a great name of God to call on when you feel like everything is dark, when you feel hopeless, when you feel unbearably alone or abandoned. It's also good for those times when you feel stuck, or even imprisoned, by hard circumstances. If you are nodding your head to any of this, grab your Bible (a notepad and pen aren't a bad idea either) because this is the episode for you! Open your Heart to our key Scripture. Revelation 21:3: He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode. Deuteronomy 4:37: By his Presence and his great strength. (NIV) Book of Ezekiel John 16:7: It is better for you that I go. 2 Chronicles 5:13–14: The house, the house of the Lord, was filled with a cloud, so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud; for the glory of the Lord filled the house of God. Romans 12:2: Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may demonstrate what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. Isaiah 63:9: In all their affliction he was afflicted. Psalm 34:18: The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit. Invite Him in with this episode's questions for reflection. Do I believe that Jehovah Shammah empathizes with me? Do I believe that the things that trouble me also trouble Him? If the answer is no, ask the Lord to reveal why. Why don't I believe? What is the wound keeping me from recognizing Your presence? (Do this reflection in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, if possible!) Ask the Lord, do the things that trouble me trouble You? And sit in silence and listen to Him speak to you. Show mentions. Heart of Vines Summer Book Club starting in July! Using code HOVBOGO50, purchase one Heart of Vines book and get a second one at 50% off. Limit one use per customer. This offer ends July 8, 2025. Lisa Brenninkmeyer and Katie Brenninkmeyer, Heart of Vines: An Invitation to Escape the Life that is Slowly Killing You Register for Heart of Vines Summer Virtual Book Club. Bishop Erik Varden CCC 1374 Peter Kwasniewski, The Holy Bread of Eternal Life Father Lasance, The New Roman Missal, Prayers at Benediction Geoffrey T. Bull, God Holds the Key Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Walking with Purpose, Fearless and Free Sarah Kaczmarek, Encounter Ministries Dan Burke, quote Jackie Angel, Memorize Scripture Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Walking with Purpose, Opening Your Heart, Lesson 7, Day 4 Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Walking with Purpose, Touching the Divine Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Walking with Purpose, Keeping in Balance Lisa Brenninkmeyer, Walking with Purpose, Discovering Our Dignity Let's stay connected. Don't miss an episode. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform.  Want to keep the conversation going? Join our private Facebook community. Stay in the know. Connect with us today.  We are committed to creating content that is free and easily accessible to every woman—especially the one looking for answers but unsure of where to go. If you've enjoyed this podcast, prayerfully consider making a donation to support it and other WWP outreach programs that bring women closer to Christ. Learn more about WWP on our website. Our shop. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X, and YouTube.

Faith Matters is a bi-weekly Basilica of Saint Mary podcast that features conversations with Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, on topics of interest to Basilica parishioners and the Universal Church. Today's episode centers on the Eucharist, as Father Hathaway invites parishioners to participate in the parish's June 22nd Corpus Christi Eucharistic Procession and points out why it's important to be reverent to the fact that Jesus is fully present -- Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity in the Eucharist -- citing a recent TV show that mocked the Eucharist.  All are invited to take part in our traditional Corpus Christi procession following the 5 p.m. Mass on Sunday, June 22, 2025. Clergy and parishioners will participate in this prayerful, joyous witness to our core Catholic belief in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. After the Mass, we will process with the Blessed Sacrament, south along Royal Street, to the school gym at 400 Green Street, and back to the Basilica for Benediction. Following Benediction, there will be a reception in the courtyard at 314 Duke Street that will feature Perrier, Prosecco and popsicles.  

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Adrian Lawson from the YouTube channel Sips with Serra, joins CY to discuss the growing appeal of the Catholic Church among young people—has the Church changed, or has the culture shifted? A caller enrolled in OCIA asks why we receive the Eucharist by eating it, and how that connects us to Christ's sacrifice. They also address the Eucharistic Congress and recent protests surrounding it, offering a Catholic perspective on public witness and reverence for the Blessed Sacrament. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 30:19 – What has changed to make the Catholic Church more appealing to young people? Has the church changed or American culture? 34:23 – I'm signed up for OCIA, and I am curious to why we eat the Eucharist as the mode of receiving and participating in Christ's sacrifice? 47:10 – What are your thoughts on the Eucharistic congress and the disruptive protesters following it?

Friday of the Seventh Week of Easter Optional Memorial of St. Norbert, 1080-1134; founder of the Praemonstratensians or the Norbertines; his founding of the Order was a monumental task: combatting rampant heresies—particularly regarding the Blessed Sacrament, revitalizing many of the faithful who had grown indifferent and dissolute, plus effecting peace and reconciliation among enemies; reluctantly, Norbert became archbishop of Magdeburg in central Germany, a territory half pagan and half Christian; in this position he zealously continued his work for the Church until his death Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 6/6/25 Gospel: John 21:15-19

35 Let your loins be girt, and lamps burning in your hands.Sint lumbi vestri praecincti, et lucernae ardentes in manibus vestris, 36 And you yourselves like to men who wait for their lord, when he shall return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open to him immediately.et vos similes hominibus exspectantibus dominum suum quando revertatur a nuptiis : ut, cum venerit et pulsaverit, confestim aperiant ei. 37 Blessed are those servants, whom the Lord when he cometh, shall find watching. Amen I say to you, that he will gird himself, and make them sit down to meat, and passing will minister unto them.Beati servi illi quos, cum venerit dominus, invenerit vigilantes : amen dico vobis, quod praecinget se, et faciet illos discumbere, et transiens ministrabit illis. 38 And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.Et si venerit in secunda vigilia, et si in tertia vigilia venerit, et ita invenerit, beati sunt servi illi. 39 But this know ye, that if the householder did know at what hour the thief would come, he would surely watch, and would not suffer his house to be broken open.Hoc autem scitote, quoniam si sciret paterfamilias, qua hora fur veniret, vigilaret utique, et non sineret perfodi domum suam. 40 Be you then also ready: for at what hour you think not, the Son of man will come.Et vos estote parati : quia qua hora non putatis, Filius hominis venietSt Francis is the founder of the Minor Clerks Regular. His burning love for the Blessed Sacrament was equaled by his great zeal in prayer and penance. He died A.D. 1608.

What does it mean that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist—not symbolically, not metaphorically, but wholly and completely? In this first session of our June series, we'll contemplate the stunning truth of Christ's gift of Himself in the Blessed Sacrament. We'll visit and talk about what it means to be a woman who receives Him regularly, who hungers for Him, and who allows herself to be nourished and changed by Him.✨ Come if you're longing to fall in love with the Eucharist again—or maybe for the very first time. Join the convo LIVE every Tuesday at 1 pm ET on the BIS Member Community.

Maria Morera Johnson and Inés Huber Mersch discuss ways they integrate tangible expressions of faith in their homes. Inés Huber Mersch is a faithful Catholic wife, mother, and grandmother residing in Mobile, Alabama. Her strong attraction to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament led to her being invited to participate in the steering committee that brought Perpetual Adoration to the Archdiocese of Mobile and continues as one of the schedulers. She has also been a guest writer at Catholic Mom. Links in Episode: - Broken By Me by Inés Mersch - Catholic Momcast 324: Detachment  

Friends of the Rosary,Today, Memorial Day in the U.S., is the Feast Day of St. Philip Neri (1515-1595), a gracious, cheerful priest who was Rome's apostle of the sixteenth century, one of the Eternal City's patron saints.He was a great educator of youth, spent whole nights in prayer, had a great devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, and burned with an unbounded love for mankind.As a confessor, he was in great demand; among his penitents were St. Ignatius of Loyola and Charles Borromeo.St. Philip founded the Congregation of the Oratory, a society of secular clergy without religious vows.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 YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠May 26, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET 

Alexis was received into the Roman Catholic Church this last Easter Vigil, 4/19/25. The Vigil is held in the evening after the Sun has set and it is completely dark. He was baptized at a young age, but did not complete his sacraments of initiation (Confirmation & First Eucarist). Alexis entered the Christian Initiation process here at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament after Pentecost of 2024. Let's Talk Parish is co-produced by Rex Rallanka, Titi Kila, and Chris Jensen.The theme music is “Live and Be Happy” by Valentina Gribanova.Our host is Chris Jensen.Please subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss any episodes.A special thanks goes to the Very Reverend, Father Michael O'Reilly, Rector of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament.The Cathedral appreciates your financial support. Please consider giving online as we continue our ministry via the Internet. Click⁠ https://secure.etransfer.com/CathBles...⁠ to donate.

Father Thomas Petri of the Dominican House of Studies shares his thoughts about our new Pope including the pontiff's choice of name. The Dominican priest also discusses the connections with his predecessor, Pope Leo XIII and his love for St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas. Msgr. Roger Landry joins with a look at this Leonine pope with a heart of a missionary. We also discuss the CIC Eucharistic procession, carrying the Blessed Sacrament in front of the White House. Catch the show every Saturday at 7amET/5pmET on EWTN radio!

"O wonderful loftiness and stupendous dignity! O sublime humility! O humble sublimity! The Lord of the universe, God and Son of God, so humbles Himself that for our salvation He hides Himself under an ordinary piece of bread!" St. Francis' words ring true for so many great saints of the Church who credit Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with sustenance and healing in their lives. and ministries. Learn how to build a culture of Adoration in your heart in this episode of the #BecomeFire Podcast.

In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have.The Rosary is foremost among them.Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.The Great Rosary Campaign is a yearlong mission for the conversion of cultural leaders. We will announce a weekly call to pray every Sunday for specific fallen-away Catholics and non-Catholics.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign, we will focus once more on Pope Leo XIV, and pray that his pontificate will bring glory to God, and holiness to His Church.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a Holy Hour of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Eucharist.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

Full Text of ReadingsSaturday of the Fourth Week of Easter Lectionary: 284The Saint of the day is Saint Paschal BaylonSaint Paschal Baylon's story In Paschal's lifetime the Spanish empire in the New World was at the height of its power, though France and England were soon to reduce its influence. The 16th century has been called the Golden Age of the Church in Spain, for it gave birth to Ignatius of Loyola, Francis Xavier, Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, Peter of Alcantara, Francis Solano, and Salvator of Horta. Paschal's Spanish parents were poor and pious. Between the ages of seven and 24 he worked as a shepherd and began a life of mortification. He was able to pray on the job and was especially attentive to the church bell, which rang at the Elevation during Mass. Paschal had a very honest streak in him. He once offered to pay owners of crops for any damage his animals caused! In 1564, Paschal joined the Friars Minor and gave himself wholeheartedly to a life of penance. Though he was urged to study for the priesthood, he chose to be a brother. At various times he served as porter, cook, gardener, and official beggar. Paschal was careful to observe the vow of poverty. He would never waste any food or anything given for the use of the friars. When he was porter and took care of the poor coming to the door, he developed a reputation for great generosity. The friars sometimes tried to moderate his liberality! Paschal spent his spare moments praying before the Blessed Sacrament. In time, many people sought his wise counsel. People flocked to his tomb immediately after his burial; miracles were reported promptly. Paschal was canonized in 1690 and was named patron of eucharistic congresses and societies in 1897. Reflection Prayer before the Blessed Sacrament occupied much of Saint Francis' energy. Most of his letters were to promote devotion to the Eucharist. Paschal shared that concern. An hour in prayer before our Lord in the Eucharist could teach all of us a great deal. Some holy and busy Catholics today find that their work is enriched by those minutes regularly spent in prayer and meditation. Saint Paschal Baylon is the Patron Saint of: Eucharistic Congresses and SocietiesShepherds Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

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

In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have.The Rosary is foremost among them.Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.The Great Rosary Campaign is a yearlong mission for the conversion and strengthening of cultural leaders. We will announce a weekly call to pray every Sunday for specific Catholics and non-Catholics, some of whom need to convert, or otherwise need our prayers.THIS WEEK we are doing a special edition of the Great Rosary Campaign for our new Pope, Leo XIV. Please fervently pray the Rosary for him at this, the beginning of his pontificate.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a Holy Hour of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Eucharist.In honor of Pope Leo XIV, in this week's announcement we read a short sermon delivered by the first Pope Leo, St. Pope Leo the Great, on the first anniversary of his assumption of the papacy in AD 441. May it be our and Pope Leo XIV's prayer for his pontificate. You can read it online here: https://ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf212/npnf212.ii.v.ii.htmlCountless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

From Bread to Belief: Seeing Jesus as the Giver Behind the Gift This Homily on John Chapter 6 explores the deeper spiritual meaning behind Jesus' miracles, . . . . . . particularly the multiplication of loaves and fishes and his walking on water. The commentary contrasts the emptiness of worldly provisions, symbolized by the Roman emperor Tiberius, with the true sustenance that comes from Christ. It emphasizes that the miracles are not ends in themselves but signs pointing to Jesus' divine identity. The people, however, focus on the physical benefits and miss the deeper spiritual reality. The Lord challenges them . . . and us . . . not to seek God merely for material blessings, but to move from appreciating the gifts to knowing and loving the Giver. The ultimate “work of God” is not action, sacrifice, or ritual, but faith in Jesus Christ . . . the one sent by God. This belief is the cornerstone of spiritual life and the foundation upon which everything else is built. Hear more within the Homily. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Image The Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes: Italian painter: Giovanni Lanfranco: 1620 The painting was commissioned for and may be found in the Blessed Sacrament chapel in the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome.

“This call is unique, and beautiful, and special, and adventurous, and amazing for anyone who wants to take it on.” Fr. Jaime Hinojos visits the podcast studio to share his vocation story with Fr. Craig Giera and Fr. Drew Mabee, hosts of the Men of the Hearts podcast. He reflects on his journey from childhood in Chihuahua, Mexico, to the priesthood in the Archdiocese of Detroit. The conversation touches on cross-cultural ministry, the role of mentorship, and practical advice for those exploring the priesthood.(0:26) Fr. Craig and Fr. Drew welcome listeners and introduce their guest, Fr. Jaime Hinojos. They share Easter celebrations, reflect on the passing of Pope Francis, and remark on the richness of the Easter Vigil with newly baptized and confirmed members. Fr. Jaime expresses his admiration for Pope Francis and describes how the pope's pastoral love and simplicity left a deep mark on his soul.(4:25) Fr. Jaime shares the inspiration behind his own podcast, “TheoScience,” which blends his love of theology and background in engineering. He discusses how faith and reason are complementary, not opposed. He notes that his podcast is mainly in Spanish but occasionally features English content as well.(10:59) Fr. Jaime recounts how his spiritual journey began with a male prayer group in Chihuahua, Mexico. His prayer life intensified through music, Scripture, and personal reflection. He describes a mystical experience in which he heard the word sacredote, Spanish for priest, during deep prayer and saw himself vested in green — an early confirmation of his call.(20:20) Fr. Jaime's early discernment continued to develop through his participation in an all-night Eucharistic adoration group. A providential connection through a friend led him to Fr. Bob Wurm in Michigan, setting his journey to the U.S. priesthood in motion.(28:26) Fr. Jaime credits a “pioneer spirit” with his decision to pursue the priesthood in the U.S. rather than Mexico. He remembers making little headway speaking with a religious order. He emphasizes the value of perseverance in discernment and shares the advice he received from spiritual mentors who encouraged him not to leave the seminary, even during hard times, unless asked to leave.(33:48) Fr. Jaime recalls learning the importance of presence over agenda when ministering to the sick. All three priests discuss how growth comes through challenge and change, encouraging young men to remain faithful in their discernment journey through any setbacks or confusion.(48:49) Fr. Jaime emphasizes the need to foster a culture of vocations in the Hispanic community and shares how he regularly encourages young men to consider the priesthood in joyful and lighthearted ways. He then describes the warmth and vibrancy of Hispanic Catholic culture — marked by food, family, and deep reverence for blessings.(52:00) Fr. Jaime offers advice to men discerning: Pray before the Blessed Sacrament and don't carry fear about failure. He shares how a priest once told him, “You don't have to be a priest,” liberating him from anxiety and allowing him to freely embrace his calling. His parting message encourages discerners to be joyful, flexible, and faithful. He then closes the episode with a prayer.

In these dark times, we must fight evil with the most powerful weapons we have.The Rosary is foremost among them.Join the Great Rosary Campaign today at: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com.The Great Rosary Campaign is a yearlong mission for the conversion of cultural leaders. We will announce a weekly call to pray every Sunday for specific fallen-away Catholics and non-Catholics.THIS WEEK of the Great Rosary Campaign, in light of the beginning of the conclave that will elect the next Pope, we are praying both for the repose of Pope Francis's soul, as well as for the conclave who will elect his successor.The SUGGESTED PENANCE this week is a Holy Hour of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Eucharist.Countless Saints and Popes have told us that the Rosary is incredibly powerful for three things in particular:Keeping the FaithMoral renovationConversions of non-CatholicsThe Great Rosary Campaign is also based on several biblical themes and principles.First, PRAY FOR OUR BRETHREN. “Pray for one another…” (Jas. 5:16). “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" (Gal. 6:10).Second, PRAY FOR OUR ENEMIES. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Matt. 5:43-44).Third, PRAY FOR ALL MEN, PARTICULARLY LEADERS AND THOSE IN AUTHORITY. “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, or kings and all who are in high positions…” (1 Tim. 2:1-2).Fourth, GOING INTO BATTLE WITH THE ARK. When the ancient Israelites came to Jericho, God didn't tell them to besiege the city. Instead, He told them to march around it with the Ark of the Covenant seven times, and on the seventh the walls would fall. We will now "march" in prayer for seven days with the New Ark of the Covenant, Our Lady, through the Rosary. We pray in hope that on the seventh day, a day especially devoted to Our Lady (Saturday), extraordinary graces of conversion will be given to those we are praying for.Fifth, EVANGELISM AND APOLOGETICS = LOVE + ARGUMENTS + PRAYER + PENANCE. Ultimately it is God who reveals Himself to a soul, and empowers them to say "yes" to Him by His grace. He chooses to use us, but He does not have to. We must remember that as we evangelize and defend the Faith, our arguments will be fruitless unless informed by love (charity), and reinforced by prayer and penance.Sixth, RETURNING GOOD FOR EVIL. “Do not return evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but on the contrary bless, for to this you have been called, that you may obtain a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).Sign up to take part in the Great Rosary Campaign today: www.GreatRosaryCampaign.com

Friends of the Rosary,Today is the Memorial of St. Catherine of Siena (1347-1380),  Doctor of the Church and one of the leading figures of the fourteenth century.She influenced the pope to return to Rome from Avignon and had extraordinary influence over popes, kings, sovereign cities, and crowds of disciples.This Italian saint gained significant influence through her life of prayer, extraordinary mortifications, spiritual writings, and her continual appeals for civil peace and the reform of the Church."I have placed you in the midst of your brothers," Christ told her, "so that you can do for them what you cannot do for Me.Since her first vision at the age of six, Catherine had entirely belonged to God.One day, while she was praying in her room, Christ and our Blessed Lady appeared to her. Taking Catherine's hand, our Lady held it up to her Son, who placed on it a ring that was visible to Catherine but never to other people.Catherine received an invisible stigmata, which became visible after her death, and through which she accepted the physical agonies of the crucifixion.Though always suffering terrible physical pain, living for long intervals with practically no food except the Blessed Sacrament, she was full of practical wisdom and spiritual insight.After a prolonged and mysterious agony, during which she was paralyzed from the waist downward, Catherine died, at the age of thirty-three, on April 29, 1380.She famously said, "All the way to heaven is heaven because He said, 'I am the Way.'"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• ⁠April 29, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Friends of the Rosary,Today, Monday of the Second Week of Easter, a day after Divine Mercy Sunday, we celebrate the memorial of St. Louis-Marie de Montfort, a 17th-century French saint revered for his intense devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and the Virgin Mary, especially through the Rosary.St. Louis-Marie wrote the prayer of entrustment to Our Lady, “Totus Tuus ego sum,” which means, “I am all yours.” The late Pope John Paul II took the phrase “Totus Tuus” as his episcopal motto.The saint manifested a love for the poor while he was at school and joined a society of young men who ministered to the poor and the sick on school holidays. When he was 19, he walked 130 miles to Paris to study theology, giving all he had to the poor he met along the way, and made a vow to live solely on alms.With a gift for preaching, he often drew crowds of thousands to hear his sermons in which he encouraged frequent communion and devotion to Mary.He was poisoned by Jansenists, a heretical movement within the Church that believed in absolute Predestination, in which only a chosen few are saved, and the rest damned.He wrote two masterpieces of Marian piety, “The Secret of the Rosary” and “True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin,” which he correctly prophesied would be hidden by the devil for a time. The “True Devotion” was discovered 200 years after his death.One year before his death, St. Louis-Marie founded two congregations: the Daughters of Divine Wisdom, which cared for the sick in hospitals and educated poor girls, and the Company of Mary, a missionary order devoted to preaching and spreading devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.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• April 28, 2025, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Full Text of ReadingsThe Resurrection of the Lord The Mass of Easter Day Lectionary: 42The Saint of the day is Saint Conrad of ParzhamSaint Conrad of Parzham's Story Conrad spent most of his life as porter in Altoetting, Bavaria, letting people into the friary and indirectly encouraging them to let God into their lives. His parents, Bartholomew and Gertrude Birndorfer, lived near Parzham, Bavaria. In those days, this region was recovering from the Napoleonic wars. A lover of solitary prayer and a peacemaker as a young man, Conrad joined the Capuchins as a brother. He made his profession in 1852 and was assigned to the friary in Altoetting. That city's shrine to Mary was very popular; at the nearby Capuchin friary there was a lot of work for the porter, a job Conrad held for 41 years. At first, some of the other friars were jealous that such a young friar held this important job. Conrad's patience and holy life overcame their doubts. As porter, he dealt with many people, obtaining many of the friary supplies and generously providing for the poor who came to the door. He treated them all with the courtesy Francis expected of his followers. Conrad's helpfulness was sometimes unnerving. Once Father Vincent, seeking quiet to prepare a sermon, went up the belltower of the church. Conrad tracked him down when someone wanting to go to confession specifically requested Father Vincent. Conrad also developed a special rapport with the children of the area. He enthusiastically promoted the Seraphic Work of Charity, which aided neglected children. Conrad spent hours in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. He regularly asked the Blessed Mother to intercede for him and for the many people he included in his prayers. The ever-patient Conrad was canonized in 1934. His liturgical feast is celebrated on April 21. Reflection As we can see from his life as well as his words, Conrad of Parzham lived a life that attracted others because of a special quality, something Chesterton alluded to when he wrote, “The moment we have a fixed heart we have a free hand.” If we want to understand Conrad, we have to know where he fixed his heart. Because he was united to God in prayer, everyone felt at ease in Conrad's presence. Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media