Podcast appearances and mentions of chris alar

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Best podcasts about chris alar

Latest podcast episodes about chris alar

Homilies from the National Shrine
Tearing Down the Dividing Wall - Fr. Tyler Mentzer | 11/12/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 20:06


Today, the Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Josaphat, a bishop and martyr who gave his life for the unity of the Church — a unity founded in Christ Himself, who “is our peace, He who made both one and broke down the dividing wall of enmity through His flesh” (Eph 2:14).In today's Gospel, we encounter the ten lepers who call out to Jesus from a distance. Only one returns to give thanks — a Samaritan, a foreigner. Yet it is this “outsider” who draws near, falls at Christ's feet, and glorifies God. His gratitude becomes worship. The Greek word used here is eucharisteo — to give thanks — the same root of our word Eucharist. In that moment, the healed man “Eucharisted” Jesus, showing us that true thanksgiving is communion with God Himself.Fr. Tyler reflects on how this healing foreshadows what Christ accomplishes in the Eucharist: God drawing near to the outcast, uniting what was divided, and restoring communion through His Body and Blood. Just as the Samaritan crossed the barrier between distance and intimacy, Christ crosses the infinite divide between heaven and earth, destroying the walls that sin has built.St. Josaphat lived this mystery to the end. In a time of bitter division between East and West, he longed for the unity of all Christians under the successor of Peter. For this, he was martyred — his blood becoming the seed of reconciliation. His life echoes the very prayer of Christ in John 17: “That they may all be one, as You, Father, are in Me and I in You.”Let us pray today that, like St. Josaphat, we may become instruments of unity — people who heal, reconcile, and draw others toward the Eucharist, where all division is destroyed and all hearts are made one in Christ.Watch today's Daily Homily with Fr. Tyler on DivineMercyPlus.org or the free DM+ app.#frtyler #stjosaphat #unity #eucharist #onenessinchrist #catholicunity #bodyofchrist #massreflection #dailyhomily #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok ★ Support this podcast ★

Homilies from the National Shrine
Love That Can't Be Bought - Fr. Chris Alar | 11/11/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 16:50


Today, Fr. Chris Alar reflects on the true meaning of love through the example of St. Martin of Tours — a man remembered for one simple act of charity. A Roman soldier who divided his cloak to clothe a beggar, St. Martin discovered that in serving the poor, he had served Christ Himself (cf. Mt 25:40). What seems like a small moment reveals an eternal truth: love is not sentiment but sacrifice.We often misuse the word “love.” We say we love our favorite show, a meal, or even a football team — but authentic Christian love runs much deeper. As St. Thomas Aquinas teaches, “To love is to will the good of another.” (ST I-II, Q.26, A.4) True love is not indulgent approval of anything someone does; it's the desire for their eternal good, even when that means speaking truth or making hard choices.Fr. Chris reminds us that not all giving is love. Some give out of duty, guilt, or to feel superior — but only one kind of love endures before God: the love that gives simply because it can't do otherwise. The love that expects no return. The love that flows from a heart transformed by grace.This is the love of Christ on the Cross — “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom 5:8) It is the love that becomes mercy when it takes action, when it clothes the naked, visits the sick, forgives, and gives without reward. It is the love that turns the ordinary into something eternal.Watch Fr. Chris's full homily on DivineMercyPlus.org or on the Divine Mercy Plus app — free and ad-free Catholic streaming that helps you deepen your faith. And visit ShopMercy.org for more spiritual resources to grow in authentic Christian love.#frchrisalar #stmartinoftours #love #charity #mercy #catholicfaith #catholicchurch #catholichomily #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok #holylove #sacrifice #faithinaction ★ Support this podcast ★

Homilies from the National Shrine
The Pope Who Stopped Attila the Hun - Fr. Matthew Tomeny | 11/10/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 10:17


What makes a true shepherd great? Strength in leadership, courage in the face of danger, and clarity in truth. Today, the Church celebrates Pope St. Leo the Great, whose faith shaped both the Church and the world during one of history's darkest times.When Attila the Hun and his brutal army advanced toward Rome, Pope Leo — a frail, elderly man — went out alone to meet him. History records that Attila turned away after the encounter, claiming to have seen two mighty figures standing beside the Pope — St. Peter and St. Paul — with an army of angels behind them. God Himself defended His Church through the courage and faith of His servant.Yet Pope Leo's greatest battle was not fought with swords, but with words. In an age of confusion, he boldly defended the truth about Christ's nature — fully God and fully man — against the rising heresies of his day. His Tome of Leo helped form the Council of Chalcedon's great declaration of faith: Christ is “one and the same Son... perfect in divinity and perfect in humanity.” The Fathers of the Council proclaimed, “Peter has spoken through Leo.”As Fr. Matthew reminds us, truth and mercy always go hand in hand. Pope Leo not only defended doctrine but lived charity — protecting the poor, reconciling enemies, and calling sinners to conversion. His courage calls us today to the same mission: to seek truth, forgive freely, and love without fear.May St. Leo the Great intercede for the Church today — that our shepherds may lead with the same faith, wisdom, and courage that once stopped an empire and safeguarded the Gospel for generations.Watch the full homily now on DivineMercyPlus.org or the free Divine Mercy Plus (DM+) app.#frmatt #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #popleothegreat #faith #truth #courage #catholictiktok #forgiveness #churchhistory #heresy ★ Support this podcast ★

Homilies from the National Shrine
Mary, Mediatrix of Grace? What the Church Really Teaches - Fr. Jason Lewis | 11/8/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 21:18


Who is Mary in God's plan of redemption? Is she “Co-Redemptrix”? “Mediatrix of All Graces”? What does the Church actually teach about these titles — and why has there been renewed discussion about them?In this special votive Mass, Fr. Jason offers clarity on the Blessed Virgin Mary's unique role in salvation history, following the recent doctrinal note Mater Populi Fidelis. The Church affirms that Jesus Christ alone is the one true Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5) — but His unique mediation is inclusive, not exclusive. In other words, Christ invites us to share in His saving work through participation, not competition. When we intercede, when we bring others to the faith, when we cooperate with grace, we are participating in His mediation.Mary's cooperation is utterly unique. From her “fiat” at the Annunciation to her suffering at the foot of the Cross, she united her will entirely to her Son's redemptive mission. As Vatican II teaches (Lumen Gentium 61), “The Blessed Virgin was the handmaid of the Lord in gaining for us the greatest of all graces — redemption and salvation.” Through her motherhood, she became the living vessel through which the Author of Grace Himself entered the world.Yet we must be clear: Mary is not divine, not a redeemer apart from Christ. She is the Mother of the Redeemer, the Mediatrix through whom God chose to send His grace into the world — the New Eve standing beside the New Adam, the Ark of the New Covenant seen in Revelation 11–12.As Fr. Jason reminds us, “Lex orandi, lex credendi” — as we pray, so we believe. The Church's liturgy itself honors Mary as “the Mother of Grace” and “Mediatrix of all graces,” reflecting the faith of the centuries. Through her perfect cooperation with God's will, she models how we, too, are called to cooperate in Christ's saving work.Let us love her, honor her, and imitate her — not as a rival to Christ, but as the first and greatest disciple of the Lord. Watch this full homily on DivineMercyPlus.org or the free Divine Mercy Plus (DM+) app to learn more about what the Church truly teaches about Mary's role in salvation.#frjason #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #mary #mediatrixofgrace #coredeemptrix #marianbeliefs #mariology #theology #catholictiktok ★ Support this podcast ★

Fr. Chris Explains
Ark of the Covenant

Fr. Chris Explains

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 11:09


What is the Ark of the Covenant? When was it built and by whom? Why was it built and what was it used for? Fr. Chris Alar, MIC, “unearths” the Ark and shares the reality and the connections between the Old Ark of the Covenant and the New Ark of the Covenant — Mary, the vessel that held the New Law. Become a Marian Helper!Discover more about the Catholic faith on Divine Mercy Plus! 

Homilies from the National Shrine
The Forgotten Souls: Why All Souls Day Matters More Than You Think - Fr. Chris Alar | 11/2/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2025 19:38


Fr. Chris reminds us that today — the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed — is one of the most important days of the Church year. Though it's not a solemnity or feast, its spiritual weight is immense. Following the glory of All Saints Day, we now turn to the souls who still await their full union with God — the holy souls in Purgatory. Together, these three days — All Hallows Eve, All Saints, and All Souls — form what the Church calls Allhallowtide, or the “Triduum of Death.” It is not dark, but deeply merciful, because it reveals God's justice and His love.Too often, people misunderstand Purgatory. It is not a second chance, nor punishment, nor forgiveness of sins — that happens in the confessional. Rather, it is the merciful purification of souls who died in grace but still need to be cleansed of attachment and the lingering effects of sin. As Fr. Chris teaches, “Christ paid the price for our redemption, but He did not remove the consequences.” A loving Father forgives, but still allows us to repair what was damaged. That is justice in love.The Church calls us — the Church Militant — to help the Church Suffering through prayer, fasting, indulgences, and sacrifices. The poor souls cannot help themselves; even the saints in Heaven cannot directly shorten their time. But you can. Offer Masses, rosaries, and daily sufferings for them. Each small act of love can release a soul into Heaven. “Love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Pt 4:8).As Fr. Chris beautifully says, “Perhaps some of those in Purgatory are there because of us.” Today, we make reparation — not only for our sins, but for those we may have influenced. Pray for your loved ones, forgive those who've hurt you, and offer every moment as a work of mercy. The greatest weapon against Purgatory is humility — to forgive, to love, and to trust in God's mercy.Learn more in Fr. Chris's talk on Purgatory this Saturday at DivineMercyPlus.org or on the free, ad-free Divine Mercy Plus app. Visit the link in our bio to watch, pray, and intercede for the holy souls.#frchrisalar #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #allsoulsday #purgatory #prayersforthedead #allsouls #soulsinpurgatory #catholictiktok #heaven #mercy #faith #prayer ★ Support this podcast ★

Homilies from the National Shrine
Your True Calling: To Be a Saint - Fr. Matthew Tomeny | 11/1/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2025 23:46


Happy All Saints Day! As Fr. Matthew reminds us, today we celebrate all the saints — not just those canonized and known to the Church, but also the hidden saints known only to God. These are the souls who lived their lives faithfully, quietly, and heroically, fulfilling the will of God in the ordinary duties of their daily lives. This feast is meant to be your feast day too. God desires every one of us to become a saint, to be counted among the Church Triumphant in Heaven.The Church's liturgical calendar these three days — All Hallows' Eve, All Saints, and All Souls — beautifully unites the three parts of the Church: the Church Triumphant (Heaven), the Church Suffering (Purgatory), and the Church Militant (Earth). Together, we form the one Body of Christ, called to live in holiness and communion. As Fr. Matthew explains, Scripture and Tradition tell us that the saints in Heaven will one day complete the number of angels who fell from grace. When that number is filled, Christ will come again, and the world will be renewed in glory.But sainthood doesn't come through extraordinary deeds alone. Fr. Matthew points us to abandonment to divine providence: sanctity can be reduced to one simple practice — fidelity to the duties God has appointed to you. “Thy will be done” isn't just a prayer — it's a daily way of life. Whether through marriage, priesthood, religious life, or single vocation, holiness comes through doing God's will with love, perseverance, and surrender.As St. John saw in Revelation, the saints are marked with the seal of God on their foreheads — a seal first received in Baptism. To remain faithful to that seal means living out our baptismal promises with purity and love, so that our white garments may remain spotless when we stand before God.Remember, sainthood is not reserved for a few — it's your destiny if you cooperate with grace. Strive each day to purify your heart, grow in virtue, and surrender your will to God. As Fr. Matthew says, “Don't delay becoming a saint.” Purgatory is for those who procrastinate holiness; Heaven is for those who say yes to God now.Watch more inspiring Daily Homilies like this and grow in faith at DivineMercyPlus.org and on the free, ad-free Divine Mercy Plus (DM+) app. Visit the link in bio for prayers, devotions, and Catholic resources to help you live out your call to holiness today.#frmatt #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #allsaintsday #communionofsaints #holiness #vocation #grace #heaven #purgatory #faith #virtue #jesus #catholictiktok ★ Support this podcast ★

Homilies from the National Shrine
The Eternal Investment Plan - Fr. Chris Alar | 11/7/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 16:55


In today's Gospel, Fr. Chris Alar reflects on what it truly means to be a faithful steward of the gifts God has entrusted to us. The steward in the Gospel, much like the prodigal son, squandered what was not his. But how often do we do the same? Our time, our treasure, and our talents—none of these belong to us. Everything we possess is a gift from God, and one day, we will give an account for how we used them.St. Ignatius of Loyola once said that if you only have time for one prayer a day, let it be an examination of conscience. Every evening, we should look at our words, thoughts, and deeds—have they honored God, or have we wasted His graces? Catholics are sometimes outdone in generosity by others, but Fr. Chris reminds us that our stewardship extends far beyond money. We are called to wisely use the spiritual graces received in Baptism, Confirmation, and the Sacraments to build up the Kingdom of God.Everything—our freedom, our relationships, even our suffering—can be invested for eternal gain. “To whom much is given, much is expected.” (Luke 12:48) God expects us to use His gifts for the salvation of souls, including the souls in Purgatory. When we pray for them, we make an eternal investment in the treasury of grace—a divine account from which both they and we can draw. As St. Faustina wrote, “Suffering is the greatest treasure on earth. It purifies the soul.” (Diary, 342)Fr. Chris and the Marian Fathers pray nightly for the deceased, especially during this first week of November, when the Church grants special indulgences for visiting cemeteries. When we pray for the dead, we gain spiritual riches that last forever—far more valuable than anything we could earn in this life. The world plans for retirement; the faithful plan for eternity. True wealth lies not in what we keep, but in what we give away for love of God and neighbor.Even when criticized or misunderstood, Fr. Chris calls us to persevere in charity. The mission of the Marian Fathers is to proclaim Divine Mercy to the world—to never stop teaching truth with love, even amid suffering or ridicule. Let us stand united as Marian Helpers, offering prayers, sacrifices, and mercy to build up that eternal treasury of grace.To deepen your understanding of the Sacraments and how they pour grace into our lives, get Understanding the Sacraments by Fr. Chris Alar at ShopMercy.org. And visit the link in our bio to learn more about praying the Rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet, or to request prayers from the Marian Fathers.#frchrisalar #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #stewardship #faith #purgatory #holysouls #eternallife #heaven #christianliving #jesus #mercy #holiness #salvation #hope #truth #prayer #catholictiktok ★ Support this podcast ★

Homilies from the National Shrine
The Sobering Reality of Judgment - Fr. Mark Baron, MIC | 11/6/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 20:16


As the world focuses on elections and politics, Fr. Mark Baron reminds us that November calls Catholics to something far deeper — the Last Things: death, judgment, heaven, and hell. While political outcomes can stir hope or despair, Fr. Mark challenges us to shift our trust from men to God, who alone rules history and every soul.St. Paul writes, “For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of God” (Rom 14:10). Each of us will give an account of our lives — of every thought, word, and deed, both good and evil. In that moment, nothing will be hidden from the gaze of the Almighty. Saints like Isaiah and St. Faustina describe the awe of standing before the thrice-holy God — a moment not of mere fear, but of truth, justice, and mercy.This meditation is not meant to terrify us, but to awaken a holy fear that leads to repentance and renewed love for Christ. The Lord told St. Faustina, “When a soul realizes the gravity of its sins, let it not despair, but with trust let it throw itself into the arms of My mercy” (Diary, 1541).In this month dedicated to the Holy Souls in Purgatory, Fr. Mark invites us to live with eternity in mind. Judgment is certain — but so is Divine Mercy for those who turn to Jesus. Let this sober truth inspire us to live for Heaven, not the fleeting victories of earth.Watch today's Daily Homily with Fr. Mark Baron on Divine Mercy Plus and deepen your reflection on life, death, and the eternal mercy of God.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #frmarkbaron #divinemercyplus #soulsinpurgatory #lastthings #catholichomily #catholictiktok #eternallife #divinemercydevotion #judgmentseatofgod #trustinjesus #heavenorhell ★ Support this podcast ★

Catholic Women Now
BONUS SEGMENT - Understanding the Sacraments with Fr. Chris Alar - 11/03/2025

Catholic Women Now

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 4:48


Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: - Be Not Afraid with Fr. PJ McManus - Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada - Catholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie Nelson - Making It Personal with Bishop William Joensen - Man Up! with Joe Stopulus - The Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo Bonner - The Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick Smith - The Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud Marr - Faith and Family Finance with Gregory Waddle Want to support your favorite show? Click Here   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Catholic Women Now
Understanding the Sacraments with Fr. Chris Alar - 11/03/2025

Catholic Women Now

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 25:23


Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows: - Be Not Afraid with Fr. PJ McManus - Be Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian Moncada - Catholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie Nelson - Making It Personal with Bishop William Joensen - Man Up! with Joe Stopulus - The Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo Bonner - The Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick Smith - The Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud Marr - Faith and Family Finance with Gregory Waddle Want to support your favorite show? Click Here   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Homilies from the National Shrine
Are We No Longer Able To Call Mary Co-Redemptrix or Co-Redeemer? - Fr. Chris Alar | 11/5/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 17:26


Fr. Chris Alar addresses the recent doctrinal note Mater Populi Fidelis (“Mother of the Faithful”) released by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. The document discusses Marian titles such as Co-Redemptrix and Co-Mediatrix, leading many to ask whether these titles may still be used.Fr. Chris explains that this note falls under the ordinary magisterium of the Church — meaning it is authoritative and deserves religious obedience, but it is not infallible. It does not define new dogma or forbid the use of these Marian titles. Instead, it advises caution when they are used in ways that might confuse the faithful or seem to diminish the unique and saving role of Jesus Christ.As Fr. Chris points out, several popes — including St. Pius X, Pius XI, and St. John Paul II — used the title Co-Redemptrix to describe Mary's singular participation in her Son's work of redemption. The Latin prefix co- (from cum, meaning “with,” not “equal to”) expresses that Mary cooperated with Christ in a subordinate and dependent way, never as His equal. Just as St. Paul called us “co-workers with God” (1 Cor 3:9), Mary's “yes” made her the perfect collaborator in His saving plan.Fr. Chris also emphasizes that honoring Mary does not reduce our love or worship of Jesus. Just as loving another child does not divide a parent's love, devotion to Mary actually deepens love for her Son. Mary leads us to Christ; she never replaces Him. Grace comes from God alone, through Christ, yet Mary intercedes as the one most united to His mission of mercy.The Church teaches that Jesus alone is the Redeemer and the sole Mediator between God and man (1 Tim 2:5). Mary's participation is always subordinate — a reflection of Christ's glory, not a rival to it. The new document cautions that when certain terms require constant clarification, they may be unhelpful in ordinary catechesis. However, it also explicitly states that their use is not forbidden if they are explained properly and understood in the light of the Church's faith.Fr. Chris concludes that while the Marian Fathers will always remain obedient to the Magisterium, they will also continue to explain and defend the Church's Marian tradition with clarity and fidelity. Properly understood, these titles honor Christ by acknowledging the full truth of how He chose to work through His Mother for our salvation.Watch this important reflection now on Divine Mercy Plus — the free, ad-free Catholic streaming platform dedicated to truth, formation, and the message of Divine Mercy.#frchrisalar #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #mary #blessedmother #coredeemer #coredemptrix #mediation #doctrinalnote #vatican #obedience #faith #truth #catholictiktok ★ Support this podcast ★

Homilies from the National Shrine
The Heart That Reformed the Church (St. Charles Borromeo) - Fr. Matthew Tomeny | 11/4/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 14:12


St. Charles Borromeo is one of the greatest reformers in Church history — not through rebellion or innovation, but through holiness, humility, and total detachment from the world. Born into nobility and privilege, he could have lived in comfort, wealth, and ease. Instead, after the death of his brother, St. Charles turned his back on worldly attachments and consecrated his life entirely to God. He chose not the banquet halls of the rich, but the banquet of the Lamb.Ordained at 25 and made bishop soon after, St. Charles reformed clergy life and education, ensuring priests were trained to teach and sanctify the faithful with knowledge and zeal. His leadership at the Council of Trent helped shape the Roman Catechism and the very system of seminaries that still form priests today. He also established the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) to teach children the truths of the Faith — so that all might “know, love, and serve God.”But St. Charles's reform did not stop in classrooms or cathedrals. During plague and famine, when civic leaders fled, he remained. He sold his possessions, fed thousands daily, and even gave up his bed for the sick, sleeping on the floor for the rest of his life. His heart — still venerated in Rome — became the symbol of a priest and shepherd who lived completely for God and His people.His secret? Meditation. He said, “Nothing is more necessary than meditation. We must meditate before, during, and after everything we do … in this way, all that you do becomes a work of love.” Whether in ministry, prayer, or recreation, he kept his intentions pure, doing all for the glory of God.St. Charles Borromeo reminds us that true reform begins not with power, but with purity — not by changing the world first, but by letting Christ change our hearts. May we, like him, renew the Church by renewing our love for God in every action, every thought, and every sacrifice.#frmattschneider #stcharlesborromeo #divinemercy #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #holiness #catholictiktok #faith #saints #reform #counciloftrent #catechism #ccd #seminary ★ Support this podcast ★

Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar
Praying to Dead People? All Saints' Day

Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 48:25


The practice of praying to the saints for intercession is as old as Christianity. So why is it so misunderstood? Can the saints hear us? Aren't they dead? Doesn't this take away honor from God? Do we worship them? Fr. Chris Alar answers all this and more! 

Fr. Chris Explains
End Times: The 3 Days of Darkness

Fr. Chris Explains

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 6:34


What does the Catholic Church teach about the End Times? Are we in them now? Specifically, the 3 days of darkness prophecies are referenced more than once in Scripture (in both the Old and New Testaments) and are also brought up in the Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska and the writings of other saints. Listen as Fr. Chris Alar, MIC “sheds light” on this topic in this episode on the End Times. Become a Marian Helper!Discover more about the Catholic faith on Divine Mercy Plus! 

Homilies from the National Shrine
Halloween; Good or Bad? - Fr. Chris Alar | 10/31/25

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 17:09


As Fr. Chris Alar explains, the evening we now call Halloween began not as a pagan ritual, but as a sacred Christian vigil—All Hallows' Eve, the holy night before the solemnity of All Saints' Day. This feast, instituted in the 700s, has always been a time to honor the saints and pray for the faithful departed. The Church's ancient practice of vigils reflected the truth that holy days begin at sundown, anticipating the joy of what is to come.Many claim Halloween is rooted in paganism, yet history says otherwise. Popes Gregory III and IV, who established the feast and its vigil, had no knowledge of the Celtic festival of Samhain. While certain customs like bonfires, costumes, and carved lanterns existed in pagan Europe, their Christian meaning transformed them: light overcoming darkness, prayers for the dead, and the triumph of holiness over sin. As with the Christmas tree, these cultural remnants were baptized—not banned—by the Church.Our Catholic ancestors saw All Hallows' Eve as a time to remember that life on earth is fleeting and that Heaven, Purgatory, and Hell are real. The “veil” between the visible and invisible was thought to thin, reminding us of the souls who need our prayers. Even “trick or treating” began as the holy custom of souling—children receiving soul cakes in exchange for praying for the dead. The jack-o'-lantern, too, once symbolized the light of Christ and the souls awaiting redemption.Halloween became distorted after the Reformation, when anti-Catholic sentiment labeled the feast “pagan.” Puritans even outlawed it in early America, erasing its sacred meaning. But the Church has never ceased to teach that this vigil belongs to Christ. It is not a night to glorify evil, witchcraft, or fear—but a night to honor the saints, pray for the departed, and rejoice in God's victory over death.“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). May this Holy Eve draw us closer to the Communion of Saints and remind us that holiness conquers darkness.Learn more about the truth behind Catholic tradition in Fr. Chris Alar's book Understanding the Sacraments at ShopMercy.org.#frchrisalar #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok #halloween #allhallowseve #allsaintsday #purgatory #holiness #faith #history #churchtradition #christianheritage ★ Support this podcast ★

Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar
Cremation: Is It Allowed?

Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 28:05


Many people today are turning to cremation as an easy, low-cost alternative to Christian burial. But is this really allowed by the Church? And if so, what do you need to know before you do this? Join Fr. Chris Alar as he gives an interesting summary of this important topic.

Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar
What Does the Church Say About Israel & Gaza?

Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 27:53


The terror and violence in the Israeli / Palestinian conflict is reaching a fever pitch with Hamas and the fear of World War III looming over the world. But who is right? What is happening and why? And what does the Church and the Bible say about it regarding the end times? Join Fr. Chris Alar as he summarizes this and gives you the most important information to understand and make sense of it.

Fr. Chris Explains
Pope St. John Paul II - The Mercy Pope

Fr. Chris Explains

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 9:39


Pope John Paul II was an incredibly holy man, a man of prayer, and a saint. Join Fr. Chris Alar, MIC as he shares amazing insight into the life of this man; a life centered on the Eucharist, and a pontificate dedicated to spreading the message of Divine Mercy.Become a Marian Helper!Discover more about the Catholic faith on Divine Mercy Plus! 

Fr. Chris Explains
Addiction

Fr. Chris Explains

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 9:15


Why has addiction become so prevalent in our world? What, if anything, can we do to overcome it? What can we do to maintain hope? Join Fr. Chris Alar, MIC, for a frank discussion and learn some answers to these questions. Become a Marian Helper!Discover more about the Catholic faith on Divine Mercy Plus! 

Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar
Why Did Jesus Choose St. Faustina Kowalska?

Explaining the Faith with Fr. Chris Alar

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 71:06


Join us at the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy for a special talk with Fr. Chris Alar in honor of the Feast of St. Faustina Kowalska, the Secretary and Apostle of Divine Mercy.St. Faustina was entrusted by Christ with the mission of proclaiming His message of Divine Mercy to the world, a mission that continues to transform lives through her Diary, through prayer, and through the Sacraments. On this special day, Fr. Chris will guide us deeper into the life, message, and spirituality of St. Faustina, helping us see how her trust in Jesus remains a path of hope and holiness for our times.This talk is a beautiful opportunity to celebrate St. Faustina's legacy and to rediscover the message of Divine Mercy at its very source. Come and encounter the love of Christ through the witness of the saint who gave her life to make His mercy known.