Podcasts about during lent

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2026 65:05

A conversation that begins with Girl Scout Cookies and sweet cereal slowly finds its way to something deeper: what home really means. Father Damian and Father Eric reflect on hometowns, family houses, Jesuit communities and the places that shaped them,, while wondering how those places still live in them. Somewhere between nostalgia, laughter and prayer, this episode asks a tender question: Where is the place, or who is the presence, that lets you breathe differently and be fully at rest? About the show: Two Jesuits Talking is a Catholic podcast hosted by Fr. Eric Immel, SJ, and Fr. Damian Torres-Botello, SJ. Through candid, unscripted conversations, they explore Ignatian spirituality, Catholic life, ministry, culture, prayer and the everyday questions that shape modern faith. This isn't a lecture. It's not a debate show. It's two Jesuit priests talking honestly about what it means to follow Jesus today, with humor, depth and real friendship. Whether you're a practicing Catholic, spiritually curious, returning to the Church, or just interested in authentic conversations about faith, you're welcome here. During Lent, Two Jesuits Talking episodes will appear here on the AMDG feed every Saturday. After Easter, we'll move the show onto its own dedicated feed. You can also watch episodes of the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/societyofjesus Two Jesuits Talking is a production of the Jesuit Media Lab, which is a project of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States. Learn more: jesuitmedialab.org/

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A King on a Donkey – March 30, 2026

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 4:24

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/family-devotions/20260330fam.mp3 Listen to Devotion Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the warhorses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth. Zechariah 9:9-10 A King on a Donkey In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Have you ever watched a parade when an important person comes to town? Maybe people cheer, wave, and clap. Something like that happened when Jesus came to Jerusalem on Palm Sunday! Palm Sunday can feel a little confusing. During Lent we remember that Jesus suffered and died for our sins. That makes us feel sorry for our sins. But on Palm Sunday people were cheering and celebrating Jesus. They sang joyful songs and waved palm branches. Why would people celebrate if Jesus was going to die only a few days later? When Jesus came into Jerusalem, the crowd spread their coats on the road like a red carpet. They waved palm branches and shouted with joy. Those were things people did for a king! But many people thought Jesus came to be a powerful king who would beat their enemies and make their country strong again. They wanted help with their problems right away. They didn't understand that Jesus came for something even more important. God had already told people what to do on that day. Through the prophet Zechariah he said, “Rejoice!” God wanted people to celebrate because his Son had come. That was wonderful news! Jesus is a righteous King. That means he is perfectly good and holy. We are not perfect—we sin. But that's exactly why Jesus came. He came to save us from our sins. Now notice something surprising: Jesus did not ride a big war horse like a powerful king. He rode a donkey! That showed that Jesus came gently and humbly. He came to bring peace, not to fight a battle. There's another interesting detail. Many donkeys have a dark stripe down their back and another across their shoulders, making the shape of a cross. It's a quiet reminder of why Jesus came. Right in the middle of the Palm Sunday celebration, God reminds us that Jesus was on his way to the cross. Jesus went to the cross willingly. No one forced him. He did it because he loves you. He came to forgive your sins and give you eternal life. That's why Palm Sunday is such a happy day. Our King came to save us! Let's say the Palm Sunday words together: “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for willingly going to the cross for me. Amen. The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire. Questions for Younger Children What did Jesus ride into Jerusalem on? Why is that surprising for a king? What did Jesus really come to do for us? Questions for Elementary Age Children Some people thought Jesus came to defeat their enemies and fix their problems right away. Why is what Jesus actually did even better? What is one way you can say “Hosanna” (praise Jesus) this week—at home, at school, or with a friend? Questions for Middle School and Above Sometimes we want Jesus to fix things immediately. What can we remember about Jesus when life doesn't go the way we expect? Why is it important that Jesus entered Jerusalem as a righteous King who came to suffer rather than to rule with power? Download Family Devotions Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

What Christ Suffered - A Journey Through the Passion

Gotta Be Saints

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2026 38:36

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Brendan Gotta sits down with Dr. Thomas McGovern to explore the reality of what Jesus endured during His Passion—and why it matters for our spiritual lives today.During Lent, and especially on Good Friday, we hear the Gospel accounts of Christ's suffering: the agony in the garden, the scourging, the crowning with thorns, the carrying of the cross, and the crucifixion. But many of us have wondered what these events actually meant physically. What did the human body endure? What truly happened during those final hours?Drawing from his medical expertise and years of research, Dr. McGovern walks through the Passion with both scientific clarity and deep reverence. He addresses common misconceptions about the crucifixion, explains the physical realities behind events like the “blood and water” from Christ's side, and offers a powerful look at the depth of suffering Jesus freely embraced out of love.More importantly, this conversation moves beyond the physical details to the heart of the Gospel: the meaning of suffering. Together, Brendan and Dr. McGovern reflect on redemptive suffering, what it means to “offer it up,” and how Christ's Passion gives purpose to our own crosses. This episode is not about sensationalizing pain, but about drawing closer to Jesus through a deeper understanding of His love.About Dr. Thomas McGovernDr. Thomas McGovern is a physician and author who has spent years studying the medical, historical, and theological dimensions of Christ's Passion. His work brings together scientific insight and Catholic teaching to help readers more fully grasp the reality of what Jesus suffered—and how that transforms our understanding of suffering today.

“No Kings”

Christ Episcopal Church

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2026 16:52

Palm Sunday – March 29, 2026 – May God's words be spoken, may God's words be heard. Amen. Now, if you've been coming here awhile, than you already know that this should just be Palm Sunday, with the passion being our Holy Week journey. Still, we do include it because Easter without the passion is an empty experience, and some will not be able to attend on Maundy Thursday & Good Friday. And as in past years, the Dzieci Theatre company will push our imaginations, engage our senses, and challenge our assumptions in the second half of our service as they envelope us in the experience of Christ's passion. But, let's not go there yet. Let's give the reading from Matthew, about the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, its due. It's a rather odd telling of this moment. There are cloaks and branches, not palms. Which was also almost our experience too, as these palms we have today got sidetracked by FedEx. And, unlike in the other gospels, Jesus doesn't mount one animal, but two. I mean, you can almost imagine it looking like one of those rodeo tricks – the cowgirl on with a foot on each animal? How the heck is he doing that, and even more to the point – why on earth is he doing that? Well, the short answer is that it ties Jesus directly to messianic prophesy – found not only in Zechariah, as quoted here (and as we heard earlier in the service before the procession), but also in Genesis 49. The author Matthew is making it clear that Jesus is the Messiah whose reign would not end until he drew all people to himself. But this author is also telling us that the people who greet him with praise, did not understand who he is, and the moment they were in. When some asked “Who is this?” Others answered that Jesus was a prophet from Galilee. This sets the stage for what will happen to Jesus. But there is another part to this gospel, something we will see if we read Matthew through the crucifixion to the resurrection. The text says “the whole city was in turmoil asking about him.” Yet the word turmoil is not exactly describing it. The Greek word here is σεισμός, which means earthquake, shaking, big commotion. It occurs again just after his death on the cross, and again as the women get to the tomb. Things aren't just a bit puzzling, everything was moving chaotically. That'll get your attention, just like it did the guards at the cross and the women at the tomb. Does it get ours? Because even while the people in Jerusalem didn't quite get it, the question they ask is one being asked today – of each one of us. The church is being asked to declare who we are as the body of Christ in this earthquake moment in which we together live, where empire crushes the vulnerable. What will be the crowds response if asked about us? Will we show them who we are, as Jesus did, even if they don't understand, even if they turn against us? These are questions for us today on this Palm Sunday, as much as they were for those there in Jerusalem so long ago. Jesus knew this would happen to him – he entered into this city, at this tense moment, opposite the powerful Roman military – and he knew that, while the people in the crowds may not fully understand, his disciples needed to. So, after he enters into the city, Jesus teaches his disciples a number of things, both in word and in deed. First, Jesus goes to the temple, overturns some tables, and heals the sick. Then, he offers them perhaps the most important lesson they, or we, will receive. It was about who he is. Maybe he heard the crowds, or maybe he thought his disciples still didn't understand, so he answered the crowd's question. Using the setting of a final judgement, he said about those who will be declared righteous, “…for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.” When perplexed as to how they had done that, the answer came, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” And finally, Jesus takes it a step further, washing the feet of his disciples as a model of servant ministry, a symbol of his commandment to love one another as he loved us. “Who is this?” the crowd asked. “Who is Jesus?” we need to understand the answer to, and it is this: Jesus is the stranger, the imprisoned, the hungry, the sick – the one who overturns the tables of injustice – who heals the broken ones – the loving servant – the crucified one. Why then would he be crucified – how could a government do that to another human being., or how could the people allow it to happen? It is questions like these that make this Passion we will experience here today by Dzieci is so powerful, because it is set – not in the ancient near east – but in the Warsaw ghetto of our 20th century. A Nazi created neighborhood prison, where the death toll among the Jewish inhabitants of is estimated to have been at least 400,000. This setting is a reminder to us of what can happen when we fail to understand who Jesus is as his followers. This is what can happen when we turn our backs on the crosses being erected outside our city walls. When we look at another as being “them” rather than “Him.” When we think – “that'll never happen here – not in the US, not in my neighborhood.” But, the passion sadly isn't something that just happened over 2,000 years ago. The passion is a story happening through the centuries up to this very moment, because Jesus is being crucified all over the world, not only by governments, but by our own greed, hatred, and neglect. The crucifixion of Jesus, is happening today, because today – Jesus is Alex Pretti, Renee Good, Liam Ramos, Lumos Campos, Ruben Ray Martinez, and all the other people killed, injured, unlawfully deported or detained. Jesus is the 150 Iranian girls and other civilians, killed by our bombs, and the US Servicemen and women killed in our unjustified war with Iran. Jesus is the farmer struggling to make ends meet, the mother with no food for her children, and the homeless veteran. Jesus is the LGBTQ+ person rejected by others. Jesus is the Epstein victim and all other women or girls trafficked. Jesus is the person of color afraid to grocery shop or go to school in our country for fear of being disappeared by masked Federal Agents. Jesus is the prisoner, the hungry poor, the neglected, and the oppressed. But on this Palm Sunday, Jesus is also the one who enters into the public sphere with authority and overturns tables, even as empire threatens all around, even as he can see the cross looming ahead for him. What can we learn from all of this? During Lent, a few of us have been reading together a book, “For Such A Time As This: An Emergency Devotional,” by Hanna Reichel. In it, the author writes this: “As a scholar, I have closely studied this nation. It prided itself in its influence in the world, its intellectual leadership, its technological innovation, its economic prowess. But as global orders shifted, its social and political system, built for simpler times, crumbled… Polarization increased and made coalition building ever less feasible. Widening gaps led to social unrest economic instability and even violence in the streets. The nation was overwhelmed and disoriented… Special leaders claiming for themselves special powers rode waves of public disgruntlement against immigrants, intellectuals, and those visibly “other.” Democratic processes were manipulated, checks and balances hollowed out. Executive overreach became the order of the day. The nation I am talking about is Germany; the time is roughly a century ago. But maybe my description sounded familiar to you today. Maybe, like me, you find yourself thinking: we have been here before…We’ve been here before. You won’t like what happens next.” Reichel then asks: “What should the church's response be?” Or, as Matthew might put it: “Who are you?” There were many in the church who complied with the Nazi's, even siding with them. In the decades since, many in Christendom have had to atone for this sinful inhumanity and shameful lack of courage. But there were others – those in what was called the Confessing Church – some of whom came late to it, others who resisted from the start. Deitrich Bonhoeffer is one of the more famous examples, but there were far more. But something Bonhoeffer was very clear about, “…the church is not a building, but is also not a people. It is the body of Christ.”[1] And as the body of Christ in the world, we too need to enter our proverbial Jerusalem – not on military horses with weapons, but as Jesus did – with a message of hope, healing, grace, and love – and some righteous anger to topple the tables of injustice too. And that is what many of us were a part of yesterday in the latest “No Kings” march – the largest single day of protest in the history of the United States – with 8 million people and rising in every state, and nearly every single county across our country. Joining with others of different faiths, or none at all, we were proclaiming that might does not make right – that we will not bend the knee to any President. In signs and voice, we said we will not turn our backs on our neighbors – immigrants, people of color, LGBTQ+, women, children, the poor. We will not allow them to be crucified. We will protect them, love them, and stand by their side. Because in them, we see Jesus, and we are called to love and serve him – not any imagined earthly “King.” And for me and many other parts of the body of Christ, we also proclaimed emphatically that Christian Nationalism is a heresy. Jesus did not enter Jerusalem to cooperate with Rome, or align himself with Pilate – and neither will we allow him to be used as a tool of the powerful to oppress the vulnerable. We didn't create the σεισμός – we WERE the earthquake! Did we do this weapons or violence? No. We did this the same way Jesus did and for the same reason too. Mercy and love is what shakes the city to its core, not abusive power. Think of how our own empire today wanted protestors to become violent – doing all they could to provoke them so the Insurrection Act could be brought out., and the people subdued by violence. But, Portland Oregon showed us the way – they came in inflatable frog costumes. Why? Maybe for the same reason Jesus enters Jerusalem on two animals. Not because this isn't a serious moment. No. Instead to meet the moment – to meet violence and hostility with love and joy. In protests since Portland, violence and power have been met with shouts of kindness, songs, and peaceful opposition. And you know what? That is the scariest thing any dictator could ever see. Jesus knew that too. And so, as the body of Christ today, many of us met that moment yesterday, and have been for many, many years. And we will keep doing it too. We must, because if we do not, then we are as clueless as those in Jerusalem so long ago as to who Jesus is, and who we are as his followers. Reichel in that same book ,when talking about what we do here on Sundays, said “There is no gathering without sending. The miracle of real community is a special blessing that strengthens us for everyday existence…The cross is a part of Christian life. Where we try to avoid it, we just end up putting others on it…The Christian belongs out in the world. Blessing turns into temptation when we use community to escape the world…” Or, as I have said for years – going to church on Sunday is not the destination, it is where we get strength for the journey – the journey to Jerusalem. And so we have a question to ask ourselves this Palm Sunday – the same one asked about Jesus. Who are we as the body of Christ? In this time of empire and oppression, when Christ is being crucified will we head to Jerusalem to overturn the tables of injustice? In this time of σεισμός, where it seems the world we knew is falling apart, will we move into the danger with grace and humility, love and righteous anger? Because make no mistake about it – The cross IS a part of the Christian life. The Christian belongs out in the world – and each and every one of you – every follower of Jesus – was made for such a time as this. Amen. [1] “For Such A Time,” Reichel. For the audio, click below, or subscribe to our iTunes Sermon Podcast by clicking here (also available on Audible): Sermon Podcast https://christchurchepiscopal.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Sermon-March-29-2026-1.m4a Rev. Diana L. Wilcox Christ Church in Bloomfield & Glen Ridge March 29, 2026 Palm Sunday 1st Reading – Isaiah 50:4-9a Psalm 31:9-16 2nd Reading – Philippians 2:5-11 Gospel – Matthew 21:1-11

Two Jesuits Talking | Episode 6: Sacrifice!

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2026 63:36

Lent has a way of bringing the word "sacrifice" to the surface, and we're not just talking about giving up chocolate. Father Damian and Father Eric share stories about family, adoption, commitment and the quiet ways love asks something of us over time. From the Eucharist to everyday relationships, this conversation leans into a simple truth: Real love always costs something, and that's precisely what makes it sacred. About the show: Two Jesuits Talking is a Catholic podcast hosted by Fr. Eric Immel, SJ, and Fr. Damian Torres-Botello, SJ. Through candid, unscripted conversations, they explore Ignatian spirituality, Catholic life, ministry, culture, prayer and the everyday questions that shape modern faith. This isn't a lecture. It's not a debate show. It's two Jesuit priests talking honestly about what it means to follow Jesus today, with humor, depth and real friendship. Whether you're a practicing Catholic, spiritually curious, returning to the Church, or just interested in authentic conversations about faith, you're welcome here. During Lent, Two Jesuits Talking episodes will appear here on the AMDG feed every Saturday. After Easter, we'll move the show onto its own dedicated feed. You can also watch episodes of the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/societyofjesus Two Jesuits Talking is a production of the Jesuit Media Lab, which is a project of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States. Learn more: jesuitmedialab.org/

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The Real Death We Should Fear - Fr. David Gunter | 3/26/27

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 9:27

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032526.cfmDeath appears to be the ultimate end for many, yet Jesus reveals a deeper truth that transforms our entire perspective on mortality. In the Gospel of John, we witness the raising of Lazarus, a powerful sign that death is not final for those who believe. Jesus declares Himself as the resurrection and the life, promising that whoever believes in Him will never truly die. This is not merely spiritual metaphor but eternal reality for the baptized Christian.Yet Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus, showing His profound compassion for human suffering. He understands our grief because He entered into it fully on the cross, carrying every cross we bear. The shortest verse in Scripture reveals the depth of Christ's humanity and His solidarity with those who mourn. However, the Lord weeps most deeply not over physical death, but over spiritual death—the loss of the soul through mortal sin.At Baptism, we were raised like Lazarus from spiritual death to new life in Christ. We became temples of God, filled with divine life. But when we commit grave sin with full knowledge and deliberate consent, we become spiritually dead again, like the dry bones Ezekiel saw in the field. The tragedy is not that we cannot return, but that we choose to remain bound by sin when Christ offers liberation.The Sacrament of Penance was instituted on Easter Sunday as a sign of this ongoing resurrection. Through Confession, we are untied from the bonds of Satan, sin, and death. Saint Augustine taught that the recreation of our souls through redemption is more majestic than the creation of the universe itself. Every confession is a personal resurrection, a chance to rise again in the Spirit of God.During Lent, the Church enters into a liturgical dying. The Alleluia is buried, flowers are removed, and statues are veiled. On Good Friday, even the Mass is taken from us. Yet from this complete emptiness, life shines through in Christ's Resurrection. We must enter this dying to self through penance, prayer, fasting, and the Sacraments to share in His glory.The “Catechism of the Catholic Church” reminds us that the Church will enter the kingdom only through this final Passover, following her Lord in death and resurrection. Before Christ's Second Coming, the Church must pass through trials that will shake the faith of many. We see confusion and scattering in our time, yet we must not let our faith be shaken. Like Lazarus, even when all seems lost, we can always have hope for resurrection. ★ Support this podcast ★

Lent: Can My Suffering be Redemptive? (Romans 5:3-4)

Your Daily Bible Verse

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 6:56 Transcription Available

Today’s Bible Verse: “We rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” — Romans 5:3–4 Romans 5:3–4 offers a perspective that feels almost upside down—finding purpose in suffering. During Lent, as we reflect on the suffering of Christ, this passage invites us to consider how our own hardships can be part of God’s shaping work in us. Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe MEET YOUR HOST: Dr. Kyle Norman at https://www.lifeaudio.com/your-daily-bible-verse/ The Reverend Dr. Kyle Norman is the Rector of St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in Kamloops BC, Canada. He holds a doctorate in Spiritual formation and is a sought-after writer, speaker, and retreat leader. His writing can be found at Christianity.com, crosswalk.com, ibelieve.com, Renovare Canada, and many others. Rev. Norman has 20 years of pastoral experience, and his ministry focuses on helping people overcome times of spiritual discouragement.Find more from Rev. Norman at revkylenorman.ca This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. “Whether we’re helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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March 23, 2026, Monday of the Fifth Week of Lent, Holy Rosary (Joyful Mysteries) | Sixth Anniversary of the Rosary Network

Daily Rosary

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 29:56

Friends of the Rosary,We've started the fifth and final full week of Lent. In most dioceses, crosses and statues in churches were veiled at this time to mark Passion Time. Now, day after day, the liturgical readings tell of the storm clouds that next week will break open.Today's Lenten main reading (John 8:1-11) teaches the episode of the adulterous woman, that every sin is adultery to God, and is pardonable by Christ.During Lent, the penitential spirit should be present in our lives, as this season is essentially a time of prayer and mortification. This sounds like a denial of the values of our secular society — and rightly so.The modern creed proclaims a pagan conception of mankind, and therefore, a penitential spirit is unbearable. The prevalent philosophy is: "Let us eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die."In our pagan environment, doing penance is a dysfunctional practice of delusional pietists.But penance has deeper significance as it puts us closer to Christ, the Suffering Servant, who endured the Stations of the Cross.Ave Maria!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• ⁠March 23, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

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The Real Death We Should Fear - Fr. Matthew Tomeny | 3/22/26

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2026 19:38

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032226.cfmDeath appears to be the ultimate end for many, yet Jesus reveals a deeper truth that transforms our entire perspective on mortality. In the Gospel of John, we witness the raising of Lazarus, a powerful sign that death is not final for those who believe. Jesus declares Himself as the resurrection and the life, promising that whoever believes in Him will never truly die. This is not merely spiritual metaphor but eternal reality for the baptized Christian.Yet Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus, showing His profound compassion for human suffering. He understands our grief because He entered into it fully on the cross, carrying every cross we bear. The shortest verse in Scripture reveals the depth of Christ's humanity and His solidarity with those who mourn. However, the Lord weeps most deeply not over physical death, but over spiritual death—the loss of the soul through mortal sin.At baptism, we were raised like Lazarus from spiritual death to new life in Christ. We became temples of God, filled with divine life. But when we commit grave sin with full knowledge and deliberate consent, we become spiritually dead again, like the dry bones Ezekiel saw in the field. The tragedy is not that we cannot return, but that we choose to remain bound by sin when Christ offers liberation.The sacrament of Penance was instituted on Easter Sunday as a sign of this ongoing resurrection. Through confession, we are untied from the bonds of Satan, sin, and death. Saint Augustine taught that the recreation of our souls through redemption is more majestic than the creation of the universe itself. Every confession is a personal resurrection, a chance to rise again in the Spirit of God.During Lent, the Church enters into a liturgical dying. The Alleluia is buried, flowers are removed, and statues are veiled. On Good Friday, even the Mass is taken from us. Yet from this complete emptiness, life shines through in Christ's resurrection. We must enter this dying to self through penance, prayer, fasting, and the sacraments to share in His glory.The Catechism reminds us that the Church will enter the kingdom only through this final Passover, following her Lord in death and resurrection. Before Christ's second coming, the Church must pass through trials that will shake the faith of many. We see confusion and scattering in our time, yet we must not let our faith be shaken. Like Lazarus, even when all seems lost, there is always hope for resurrection.Believe in Him who says, I am the resurrection and the life. Take advantage of the Eucharist to store up spiritual grace. If you are in mortal sin, go to the confessional and be resurrected. The Lord does not want to weep over the loss of your soul. He wants you to live forever. ★ Support this podcast ★

Two Jesuits Talking | Episode 5: Bodies!

god jesus christ holy spirit kings lent god knows maitland savior jesus church year during lent

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2026 59:29

Gymnastics. Theater. Sacraments. Muscle memory. Fathers Eric and Damian talk about the body, not as something separate from faith, but as the place where faith actually happens. Movement, gesture, breath, touch: Our bodies preach, pray and remember. Grace isn't abstract. It's embodied. About the show: Two Jesuits Talking is a Catholic podcast hosted by Fr. Eric Immel, SJ, and Fr. Damian Torres-Botello, SJ. Through candid, unscripted conversations, they explore Ignatian spirituality, Catholic life, ministry, culture, prayer and the everyday questions that shape modern faith. This isn't a lecture. It's not a debate show. It's two Jesuit priests talking honestly about what it means to follow Jesus today, with humor, depth and real friendship. Whether you're a practicing Catholic, spiritually curious, returning to the Church, or just interested in authentic conversations about faith, you're welcome here. During Lent, Two Jesuits Talking episodes will appear here on the AMDG feed every Saturday. After Easter, we'll move the show onto its own dedicated feed. You can also watch episodes of the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/societyofjesus Two Jesuits Talking is a production of the Jesuit Media Lab, which is a project of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States. Learn more: jesuitmedialab.org/

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3.15.26 - EXACTLY WHAT I NEED: God Knows Even When I Don't (Isaiah 42:14-21)

Messages from the King

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2026 22:25

“I didn't know I needed that” is a common expression of surprise and realization. It suggests that something, whether it's a piece of information, a lesson learned, or a newfound understanding, has come to light and is now recognized as being essential or valuable, even if it wasn't previously apparent. Lent is the season of the Church Year when I recognize my greatest needs. During Lent, I realize that in Christ all my greatest needs are met. God knows what I need even when I don't have any idea. The Holy Spirit makes it clear, week after week, that if I lack Christ, I have nothing. But if I have Christ, I have exactly what I need.Support the showMessages from the King is produced by King of Kings Lutheran Church in Maitland, FL.To find out more about King of Kings...Please visit VisitKoK.comLike us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/visitkok)Email us @ info@visitkok.comRemember your Savior Jesus loves you! May he bless you with his grace!

Signs Point to the Source of Hope - Fr. Anthony Gramlich | 3/17/26

Homilies from the National Shrine

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 22:40

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/031726.cfmIn life, we rely on signs to navigate our world. They tell us where we are, how far we must travel, and which direction to take. Without them, we are lost. God, too, uses signs of a different sort to guide us, some written, some unwritten, revealing His presence and power in ways that transcend the ordinary. Saint Patrick, whose liturgical feast we celebrate today, famously used the shamrock, a simple three-petaled leaf, to shed light on the mystery of the Holy Trinity — one God in three Persons. During Lent, we are called to examine our lives, recognize our sins, and convert in an annual course correction. Yet there is a danger in remaining excessively fixated on our own misery. If we only look inward, we risk despair. True Lenten conversion requires shifting our gaze from our own failures to the infinite mercy of Christ. As the “Diary” of St. Faustina reminds us, Jesus speaks constantly of our misery, but also of His mercy. The goal of the Christian life is not to wallow in self-recrimination, but to trust in Divine Mercy. We must take our eyes off our own brokenness and fix them on the One who heals.In the Gospel, Jesus performs a sign at the Pool of Bethesda. For 38 years, a man lay lame, waiting for the water to stir, hoping to be the first to enter and be healed. It was a desperate race, a competition for a cure. But Jesus does not ask him to compete. He does not tell him to run faster. Instead, He speaks a word of power: "Rise, take up your mat and walk." The man is instantly healed. He does not need the pool; he needs the Person of Jesus.This miracle is one of the great signs in the Gospel of John. Scholars often count seven signs, symbolizing perfection, but some argue for an eighth, representing the new creation and eternity. The signs escalate in power: from changing water to wine, to healing the sick, to raising the dead. Each sign points to a greater reality: Jesus is the Light of the World, the Bread of Life, and the Resurrection. The ultimate sign is the Cross and the Resurrection, where Jesus conquers sin and death forever.Yet, signs divide. Some accept them and believe; others reject them, clinging to legalism rather than grace. The religious leaders of the time were angry not because a man was healed, but because it happened on the Sabbath. They valued their rules over the miracle of life. They were spiritually blind to the presence of God right in front of them. This is the warning for us today. When we see the signs of God's mercy, do we rejoice, or do we find reasons to doubt?Jesus tells the healed man, "Do not sin any more, so that nothing worse may happen to you." This connects physical healing with spiritual restoration. God desires to heal our souls first, for a healed body means little if the soul remains dead in sin. But once the soul is alive, the body follows. The man who was lame for decades walked away, likely dancing with joy, carrying his mat as a testament to the power of Christ.Let us not be like the Pharisees, blinded by our own expectations. Let us be like the man at the pool, ready to rise when Jesus speaks. Let us embrace the signs He gives us, trusting that He is the source of all hope. Whether through the simplicity of a shamrock, the mystery of the Trinity, or the profound mercy shown to the broken, God is speaking. Will we listen? Will we believe? ★ Support this podcast ★

Lenten Devotional March 15

Voices from Church and Trade

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2026 3:47

In today's video devotional, Rev. Lewis Galloway discusses how Jesus blessing the children becomes a lens for reflecting on God's habit of reversing human values. Where the world overlooks the small and powerless, Jesus stops, gathers the children close, and offers blessing and belonging. This act echoes a broader biblical theme in which God lifts up the lowly and calls care and attention to those on the margins. During Lent, we are invited to examine our own assumptions about importance and power, and to listen for how Christ is calling us to care for "the least of these." Subscribe to daily devotionals sent to your inbox every morning in Lent at fpc.tiny.us/news.

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Two Jesuits Talking | Episode 4: Friendship!

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Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2026 67:31

Friendship is not accidental in Jesuit life; it's foundational. Fr. Eric and Fr. Damian reflect on trust, vulnerability and the risk of being known, and how real friendship shapes ministry and discipleship. Grounded in Jesus' own invitation to friendship, this conversation explores how human relationships can quietly mirror divine love. About the show: Two Jesuits Talking is a Catholic podcast hosted by Fr. Eric Immel, SJ, and Fr. Damian Torres-Botello, SJ. Through candid, unscripted conversations, they explore Ignatian spirituality, Catholic life, ministry, culture, prayer and the everyday questions that shape modern faith. This isn't a lecture. It's not a debate show. It's two Jesuit priests talking honestly about what it means to follow Jesus today, with humor, depth and real friendship. Whether you're a practicing Catholic, spiritually curious, returning to the Church, or just interested in authentic conversations about faith, you're welcome here. During Lent, Two Jesuits Talking episodes will appear here on the AMDG feed every Saturday. After Easter, we'll move the show onto its own dedicated feed. You can also watch episodes of the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/societyofjesus Two Jesuits Talking is a production of the Jesuit Media Lab, which is a project of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States. Learn more: jesuitmedialab.org/

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Confession and Hidden Sin: The Monk Who Fooled Everyone

Catholic Minute

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 8:52

Send a textIn this Lent Daily reflection, Ken and Janelle share a sobering story from Catholic tradition about confession, hidden sin, and the danger of deceiving ourselves.A monk known for his holiness dies and is buried by his brothers in the monastery. But soon after his burial, something happens that shocks the entire community and reveals a hidden truth about the soul.This powerful story reminds us of the importance of making a sincere confession and approaching the Sacrament of Reconciliation with humility and honesty.During Lent, the Church calls us to repentance, conversion, and a careful examination of conscience. May this reflection help you prepare your heart to receive God's mercy in confession.Support the showSupport this show and get all future episodes by email atwww.kenandjanelle.com

Episode 211 Taming the Wilderness Within: Centering Prayer and the Via Negativa

The Deep Dive Spirituality Conversations Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 23:48

Brian Russell teaches on Taming the Wilderness Within: Centering Prayer and the Via Negativa. During Lent as well as the rest of the year, embrace practices such as centering prayer as a means of allowing God to do the deep sanctifying work that God desires to do in each of us. The via negative is spiritual growth through subtraction. In this practical and actionable episode, Brian explores the transformational possibilities of the consistent practice of the prayer of silence, i.e., centering prayer. Questions or comments: Brian@brianrussellphd.com Brian's Newsletter: www.brianrussellphd.com/newsletter Brian's book: Centering Prayer: Sitting Quietly in God's Presence Can Change Your Life (Paraclete, 2021): https://amzn.to/47Dwdpk Brian's Other Books: Astonished by the Word: Reading Scripture for Deep Transformation https://amzn.to/3uuWCoQ (Re)Aligning with God: Reading Scripture for Church and World (Cascade Books) https://amzn.to/30tP4S9 Invitation: A Bible Study to Begin With (Seedbed) https://my.seedbed.com/product/onebook-invitation-by-brian-russell/ Work with Brian: Brian is available for personal coaching in the areas of spiritual growth, missional leadership and biblical/theological training. Brian is also available for virtual or in person speaking/teaching. He offers workshops and stand alone talks on contemplative spirituality as well as on a variety of books and topics relating to engaging Scripture for a life of mission, community and holiness. Amazon links are affiliate links. Without affecting the cost on your end, Amazon shares a small royalty with me if you purchase any product after following these links to Amazon. In other words, if you shop regularly on Amazon, you can support my work by clicking on any of the books I linked and then searching for whatever you want to purchase. Thanks for your support.

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The Price of Our Peace Has Already Been Paid! – March 11, 2026

god jesus christ church mother gospel cross catholic tongue calvary mystic three faces during lent

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 4:02

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/family-devotions/20260311fam.mp3 Listen to Devotion Read: Romans 5:1-8 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:1,6,8 The Price of Our Peace Has Already Been Paid! In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Do you like peace and quiet? If you have a little brother or sister, or a new baby in the house, you know exactly what I mean. You probably love it when everyone is calm and happy, right? But sometimes it feels impossible. Little siblings whine. Babies cry. And suddenly it seems like peace and quiet will never come back! Jesus promises peace too—but not just quiet in your house. He promises peace with God—and that's even more important. Here's why: God is holy and perfect, and we are not perfect. The Bible says we are enemies of God because of our sins. Normally, enemies try to get peace by fighting until one side wins. But that's not how we get peace with God. Paul explains it like this: “Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). “Justified” is a big Bible word that simply means: God says, “You're not guilty!” He says we are not enemies anymore, no matter what wrongs we've done. Think about your siblings for a minute. How do you try to make peace with them? Give them a snack if they're hungry? Give them a toy if they're bored? Let them take a nap if they need it? Sometimes that works. But sometimes it doesn't! They might still cry, still fight, or still be unhappy. Jesus didn't leave peace up to chance. He wanted to guarantee it for us. Paul says: “At just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly” (Romans 5:6). Even though we deserved the punishment, Jesus took it for us. He defeated the real enemies: sin, death, and the devil. Because Jesus won, peace with God is now ours—forever! That's why he's called the “Prince of Peace!” Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for giving me peace with God that I couldn't have on my own. Thank you for dying for my sins and defeating sin and death. Amen. The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire. Questions for Younger Children How does it feel when two people aren't getting along? The Bible says that Christ died for the “ungodly.” Who does that include? (Hint: it means everyone!) Questions for Elementary Age Children Why can't anyone earn peace with God on their own? The Bible often says “grace and peace” together. Why do you think that is? Questions for Middle School and Above Can you think of a Bible story that you think does a good job of showing what real peace looks like? (Helps: Jesus calms a storm, Jesus' birth—“peace on earth”, after his resurrection, Jesus greets frightened disciples, “Peace be with you.”) During Lent, we remember that Jesus paid the price for our peace. How does thinking about that help us appreciate Jesus more? Download Family Devotions Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

The Three Faces of Our Lady: Mother. Mystic. Bride.

St. Anthony's Tongue

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 31:25

In this episode of St. Anthony's Tongue we explore three spiritual faces of the Virgin Mary: Mother, Mystic, and Bride.Mary is often spoken about with titles like Queen of Heaven or Mother of God, but the Gospel reveals something deeper. Mary shows us the entire path of the Christian life. First we receive Christ like a mother. Then we carry Him within us like a mystic. And finally we remain faithful to Him like a bride, even when the road leads to the Cross.During Lent the Church walks with Christ toward Calvary. Mary walks that road with Him, and she teaches us how to follow. In this reflection we look at Mary's humanity as a mother, her contemplative heart that “kept all these things and pondered them,” and the bridal fidelity that remained with Christ even at the Cross.Mother. Mystic. Bride.These are not just titles of Mary. They are the movements of the spiritual life that every Christian is invited to enter.If this reflection helps you see Mary or the spiritual life differently, consider subscribing for more episodes exploring Catholic mysticism, the saints, and the strange beauty of the Catholic tradition.Support via Patreon: ⁠www.patreon.com/anthonystongue⁠

Gospel in Full Color | March 8, 2026 Traditional

Anderson Hills

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 31:08

Red is the color of blood, of warning, and of sacrifice. It's also the color of the Red Sea, where God's people were delivered from slavery into freedom. Just as Israel passed through water from slavery to freedom, we pass through the blood of Christ from sin to salvation. During Lent, we remember that salvation came at a cost. Red reminds us of the Lamb who was slain, whose blood marks our deliverance. Just as Israel passed through water to freedom, we pass through the cross to life.

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Drink From the Well – Week of March 9, 2026

WELS Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s Devotions

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 4:25

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/ece-devotions/20260309ECME.mp3 Listen to Devotion Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” John 4:13-15 Drink From the Well Beet-red cheeks. Forehead hair stuck to a damp brow. Children coming in from a summer afternoon of hard play. Thirsty! Water! Water is on their minds, wet and refreshing. Water can cool the body temperature and fill every organ and cell in their little bodies. Water is a necessary element for life. Water was necessary for the woman at the well. She was there on that hot afternoon to get water for her survival. Red cheeks. Sweaty head. Little did she know, she was going to receive living water necessary for her eternal life. “Living water” is what Jesus offered her. At first, it sounded like a time saver. She would not have to strategically plan her day to be at the well when her nosy neighbors were not. She would not have to heave or huff as she balanced her water jug on the walk home. In fact, she would not have to go at all! One drink and she would be done with this relentless errand! Of course, Jesus was not offering her actual wet water from the well in her town. Jesus was offering himself as her Savior. Her embarrassing string of bad decisions were sins that separated her from God. Jesus was telling her to draw water from him, her Savior from her sin. The picture Jesus created for her told her to, “Listen to me! Be forgiven in me! I am the only one who can quench your thirst for peace in your heart. I constantly provide peace between you and God because when I am in your heart, God will look at you and see what I have done for you! He will see that you are one of my very own, a precious and forgiven spiritual sibling who is no longer thirsty for mercy from any other well because you have mercy in me!” We need Jesus, the living water, too! During Lent, we ponder our sin. We look at Jesus, on his way to the cross, willing to be nailed to that cross for our sins. Those are the sins that would separate us from God. Yet, by faith, we have Jesus, our living water. He satisfies our thirst for mercy by taking those sins into his own hands. When God looks upon believing hearts, he sees Jesus' perfect life and his innocent death on the cross. He sees Jesus' empty grave. There is no more separation. He calls us his own, a precious and forgiven child. Weary sinner, drink from the well of living water that Jesus offers to you. Find mercy and peace in Jesus, your forgiving Savior from sin! Prayer: Thank you for being my Savior from sin. Help me share your word with all around me so that they, too, may drink from the well of living water. Amen! Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Gospel in Full Color | March 8, 2026 Modern

Anderson Hills

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2026 39:17

god jesus christ israel gospel modern lamb red sea during lent full color

Two Jesuits Talking | Episode 3: Music!

jesus christ christians easter sunday lent pancakes ash wednesday during lent pancake day shrove tuesday

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2026 61:45

Every life has a soundtrack. Fathers Eric and Damian swap stories about the music that formed them, the songs that carried faith, doubt, longing and joy. Along the way, they wrestle with sacred versus secular, passive listening versus real attention, and why music so often becomes prayer before we even realize it. About the show: Two Jesuits Talking is a Catholic podcast hosted by Fr. Eric Immel, SJ, and Fr. Damian Torres-Botello, SJ. Through candid, unscripted conversations, they explore Ignatian spirituality, Catholic life, ministry, culture, prayer and the everyday questions that shape modern faith. This isn't a lecture. It's not a debate show. It's two Jesuit priests talking honestly about what it means to follow Jesus today, with humor, depth and real friendship. Whether you're a practicing Catholic, spiritually curious, returning to the Church, or just interested in authentic conversations about faith, you're welcome here. During Lent, Two Jesuits Talking episodes will appear here on the AMDG feed every Saturday. After Easter, we'll move the show onto its own dedicated feed. You can also watch episodes of the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/societyofjesus Two Jesuits Talking is a production of the Jesuit Media Lab, which is a project of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States. Learn more: https://jesuitmedialab.org/

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March 4, 2026, Wednesday of the Second Week of Lent, Holy Rosary (Glorious Mysteries)

Daily Rosary

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 29:41

Friends of the Rosary,During Lent, we prepare ourselves for the central events of Good Friday and Easter Sunday.Because of the sins and disobedience of the human race, Christ, the Son of God in human nature, decided to pay for our redemption with his blood.Through his infinite mercy and love for us, he set us free from the slavery of Satan and of sin.God the Father glorified him with the resurrection.The lesson for humans was clear: if we follow Christ, the new Head of humanity, faithfully in these virtues, joys, and sufferings, we will all be offered a share in an eternal life of glory.The victory of Christ over the power of Satan, proclaimed by the Church, should be ours also. Our strength is His. In our weakness, we are strong. The Lord delights in our effort and grants us the most important thing on earth: His grace!Ave Maria!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.Ave Maria!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• ⁠March 4, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

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What is Pancake Day?

Do you really know?

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 4:24

Feeling hungry? It's march 3rd, Pancake Day ! Which means you have to choose your favourite toppings! Pancake Day is also known as Shrove Tuesday, which marks the day before the start of Lent on the Christian calendar. The date changes every year, as it depends on when Easter falls. According to Christian tradition, Pancake Day marks the last day of excess allowed before Lent. The following day is Ash Wednesday, and the beginning of 40 days of prayer and fasting. During Lent, practising Christians often give up something as a personal sacrifice to remember the forty days Jesus spent in the desert. Lent ends on Easter Sunday, when Christians celebrate Jesus's resurrection from the dead, after being crucified. How far back does the celebration of Pancake Day go? Why eating pancakes ? In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the last episodes, you can click here : ⁠How can I use the 80/20 method to save money?⁠ ⁠How are social media influencers making money through rage baiting?⁠ ⁠How much money makes you happy?⁠ A podcast written and realised by Joseph Chance. First broadcast : 15/02/2021 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Wilderness Temptation — Matthew 4:1-11

Midtown Church Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 41:46

During Lent, we are invited to confront the reality of sin—not merely as obvious wrongdoing, but as the subtle impulses and lies that distort our trust in God and neighbor. Reflecting on Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, we explore how the enemy works primarily through deception, tempting us to distrust God, test God, or pursue good ends apart from God. Yet where humanity has failed, Jesus remains faithful, resisting temptation through trust in the Father and deep grounding in Scripture.

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Deacon Tommy: Second Sundy of Lent

Homily Rewind from St. Margaret Mary Church

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 8:17

Deacon Tommy reflects that God's call often disrupts our plans, just as it did for Abraham and the apostles at the Transfiguration, but obedience opens the door to transformation and blessing. During Lent, he invites us to seek quiet time with the Lord, embrace reconciliation, and allow Christ to transfigure our hearts as we return more fully to Him.

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Ep287 Pt1 – Lent: Focusing on Our Thoughts

Heart Catholic Women

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2026 8:31

Our thoughts are powerful. They can affect our mood, our behaviour and even our physical selves. In this Heartbeat Emma teaches us how God wants us to think. During Lent this week take some time reflect on how you think.

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Second Sunday In Lent

Sermons from St. Stephen's

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2026 12:18

During Lent we journey with all those around the world who will be baptized at the Easter Vigil. In today's gospel Jesus tells Nicodemus that he must be born of water and Spirit. At the font we are a given a new birth as children of God. As God made a covenant with Abraham, in baptism God promises to raise us up with Christ to new life. From worship we are sent forth to proclaim God's love for all the world.

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Two Jesuits Talking | Episode 2: Nighttime!

Elizabeth City EMC Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2026 62:16

Two Jesuits. Real life. Real faith. Today's episode: Nighttime! There's something about nighttime that loosens the soul. In the quiet, defenses drop, memories surface and prayer shifts. Fr. Eric and Fr. Damian talk honestly about being night owls, about what darkness reveals, and about how surrender often happens when everything else goes still. The night isn't empty, it's inhabited. About the show: Two Jesuits Talking is a Catholic podcast hosted by Fr. Eric Immel, SJ, and Fr. Damian Torres-Botello, SJ. Through candid, unscripted conversations, they explore Ignatian spirituality, Catholic life, ministry, culture, prayer and the everyday questions that shape modern faith. This isn't a lecture. It's not a debate show. It's two Jesuit priests talking honestly about what it means to follow Jesus today, with humor, depth and real friendship. Whether you're a practicing Catholic, spiritually curious, returning to the Church, or just interested in authentic conversations about faith, you're welcome here. During Lent, Two Jesuits Talking episodes will appear here on the AMDG feed every Saturday. After Easter, we'll move the show onto its own dedicated feed. You can also watch episodes of the show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/societyofjesus

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Lectionary.pro for the Second Sunday in Lent, Year A

Lectionary Lab Live

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 29:13

And, we're off! Thanks, everybody, for giving our renewed Lectionary.pro format a try. Please continue to offer your comments and suggestions. Just like the original Lectionary Lab, we want to be helpful to working preachers. (“Jesus and Nicodemus”, from the Seventh-Day Adventist Bible Discussion page)RCL Readings: • Genesis 12:1–4a; Psalm 121; Romans 4:1–5, 13–17; John 3:1–17Text Summaries• Genesis 12: 1-4aGod calls Abram to leave home, security, and everything familiar, and to trust a promise he cannot yet see fulfilled. The promise is bigger than Abram's private future: through him, God intends blessing for all families of the earth. Abram's obedience is strikingly simple — “So Abram went” — and that trustful response becomes the model of covenant faith. In Lent, this text frames discipleship as movement: leaving old certainties, walking by promise, and trusting God's future over present control.• Psalm 121This psalm is a confession of trust for travelers, pilgrims, and anyone feeling exposed. Help does not come from the hills themselves, but from the Lord, Maker of heaven and earth. The psalm repeats God's “keeping” care: God watches over going out and coming in, by day and by night, now and forever. Rather than denying danger, it places vulnerability inside God's faithful attention. In a Lenten key, it teaches believers to pray honestly about risk while resting in the God who does not slumber.• Romans 4:1–5, 13–17Paul presents Abraham as the prototype of faith: righteousness comes through trusting God's promise, not through human achievement or law-keeping. If inheritance depended on performance, promise would collapse; instead, it rests on grace so that it can include all who share Abraham's faith. God is described as the One “who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist,” grounding Christian hope in God's creative power. During Lent, this text shifts the center from religious scorekeeping to grace-shaped trust and hope.• John 3:1–17Nicodemus comes to Jesus at night, sincere yet confused, and Jesus tells him that entry into God's kingdom requires birth “from above” — a Spirit-given new beginning, not mere religious competence. Jesus draws on Israel's wilderness story (the lifted serpent) to show that healing and life come through looking in faith to what God provides. The passage climaxes in God's love for the world: the Son is given not to condemn but to save. For Lent, this gospel invites people out of spiritual nighttime into rebirth, faith, and the light of God's saving mercy.Major Themes1. Faith before sight, or perhaps through sight (looking) when our focus is on God2. Promise grounded in grace3. New birth, new life in Christ4. God's keeping care in uncertain journeys5. Salvation as gift, not achievementPreaching ArcThe Call → The Keeper → The Promise → The New Birth1. The Call (Genesis 12): God calls us forward before we have full clarity.2. The Keeper (Psalm 121): We are sustained on the road by God's watchful care.3. The Promise (Romans 4): Righteousness and the future are received by faith, not earned by performance.4. The New Birth (John 3): God doesn't just improve us; God makes us new in Christ.From uncertain beginnings to Spirit-born life, faith walks forward on promise, kept by grace.A Sermon Outline“Called Before We're Ready”Core Claim: God calls us forward by grace, keeps us on the road, and gives new life through Christ.1. Opening: the discomfort of being called into the unknown2. Genesis 12: Abram's yes before clarity3. Psalm 121: God keeps us while we travel4. Romans 4: promise by grace, received by faith5. John 3: new birth is God's work, not self-improvementApplication: one step of trust this weekClosing: we go because God is faithfulOne-sentence takeaway: In Christ, we are called, kept, and made new — so we can take the next faithful step even without full certainty.An Illustration: Does anybody remember the Dunkin' Donuts commercial that featured a bleary-eyed baker rising early every morning, saying, “Time to make the donuts?” Believe it or not, that's a basic illustration of faith in something intangible. A baker starts work at 2:00 a.m. There is no smell of fresh bread yet, no customers, no visible result — just measured ingredients, kneading, waiting, and trust in the process. Hours later, what was unseen becomes nourishment (of a sort) for many.Preaching Bridge: “Faith is often bakery work: done in the dark, trusted before dawn.” (Image from the Upper Room, Discipleship Study Guide)Narrative Lectionary Text: John 13:1-17Text SummaryAt the supper before his passion, Jesus rises, takes a towel, and washes the disciples' feet. Peter resists, then overcorrects, and Jesus teaches that receiving him means accepting this upside-down pattern of love. Jesus, their Lord and Teacher, performs a servant's task and commands them to do likewise. Greatness in his kingdom is expressed through humble, embodied service.Themes Present1. Servant leadership — authority in Jesus is expressed through self-giving care.2. Love made concrete — love is not sentiment; it takes the form of action.3. Receiving before doing — discipleship starts with letting Christ minister to us.4. Humility over status — the gospel dismantles rank-driven identity.5. Imitation of Christ — “as I have done for you” is the shape of Christian community.Preaching ArcIdentity → Humility → Command → Community1. Identity: Jesus knows who he is and where he is going.2. Humility: Secure in that identity, he kneels to wash feet.3. Command: “As I have done for you, you also should do.”4. Community: The church becomes recognizable by practical, mutual, humble love.Because Christ stoops to serve us, we are formed into a people who serve one another.A Sermon Outline“The Towel and the Basin”Core ClaimJesus redefines greatness through humble service, and discipleship means receiving his love and then embodying it toward others.Big MovementStatus → Surrender → Service → WitnessOutline (7–8 min)1. Opening: Our instinct for rank• We naturally measure importance by visibility and control.• Jesus gives a different picture at the table.2. John 13: The shock of the scene• Jesus knows who he is and where he is going.• Precisely from that security, he kneels and washes feet.• True authority is not threatened by service.3. Peter's resistance: Why this feels hard• Peter resists being served.• Discipleship begins with receiving grace, not performing for God.• We cannot give what we refuse to receive.4. “As I have done for you”• Jesus moves from act to command.• Foot washing as pattern: embodied, practical, inconvenient love.5. What this means for a small (or any) congregation• Hidden service is central ministry, not secondary work.• Church health is measured by how we treat one another in ordinary moments.• The towel may look like meals, rides, prayer, repair, listening, forgiveness.Application for the week• Receive: where do I need to let Christ serve and cleanse me?• Serve: one concrete act of humble care.• Repair: one relationship step that lowers pride and raises love.Closing• Jesus is most recognizable when kneeling with a towel.• The church is most faithful when it does the same.One-Sentence TakeawayIn Christ's kingdom, greatness looks like a towel and basin: we receive his love, then kneel to serve.An Illustration: “The CEO with a Mop”A story gets told in leadership circles about a company after a major event: everyone leaves, trash is everywhere, and the cleaning crew is short-handed. One employee comes in early and sees the CEO quietly pushing a mop and picking up cups. No announcement. No photo. No speech. Just service.That moment reshaped the office culture more than any memo did. People said, “If he can do that, none of us are above serving.”John 13 is deeper than leadership technique, but the point lands: Jesus, knowing exactly who he is, takes the towel. Real authority is not threatened by humility.Preaching bridge: In Christ's kingdom, the towel is not beneath us. The towel is how love becomes visible. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit lectionarypro.substack.com

The First Gospel

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2026 49:24

During Lent, we follow Jesus to the cross, the fulfillment of God’s first promise of good news in the Garden of Eden for sinful humanity. He is the one who maps and forges the way back into right relationship with himself. Series: Shadows Of Resurrection Speaker: Sean Scribner Scripture: Genesis 3:1-21

god jesus christ gardens first gospel during lent

Reflection in words & music – Sunday 22nd February 2026

St Bride's Church, Fleet Street

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2026 18:23

Join The Revd Steve Morris, Associate Priest of St Bride's, and St Bride's Choir for this week's reflection in words and music. During Lent, which began this week, we sing the Kyries instead of the Gloria from our weekly mass setting at Choral Eucharist on Sunday mornings. This week's setting in church is the "Messe en l'honneur du Saint-Sacrement Op 130" by the Belgian composer Joseph Jongen. He wrote it in 1945 with a sense of intense relief having just learned that his son had survived internment in Buchenwald. Our reflection opens with St Bride's Choir singing the opening movement. The reading is St Matthew's account of the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness by the devil which Steve, one of our associate priests at St Bride's, then reflects on. We close with another description of that time of temptation, "Forty days and forty nights" by George Hunt Smyttan which was first published in 1856. A new episode of this online act of worship is released every Sunday morning. Information about our weekly Sunday services in St Bride's of Choral Eucharist at 11am (www.stbrides.com/worship-music/wo…horal-eucharist/) and Choral Evensong at 5:30pm (www.stbrides.com/worship-music/wo…choral-evensong/) can be found on the website. Find out what's happening at St Bride's at www.stbrides.com/whats-on If you enjoy listening, please leave a comment below or subscribe to our channel. It is great to get your feedback. SUPPORT ST BRIDE'S ================== We are hugely grateful for people's generosity which we wholly rely on to continue our work, maintain our wonderful architectural heritage and support world-class music-making. If you would like to make a donation, you can do so at www.justgiving.com/stbrideschurchfleetstreet

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1st Week of Lent: Dignity at the Cross with the Sisters of Life

Ave Explores

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2026 48:36

Rooted in their mission to uphold the dignity of every human person, the Sisters of Life witness to the truth that no one is beyond God's love and mercy. During Lent, we are invited to stand at the foot of the Cross and encounter the Lord's loving gaze, even in his suffering. Sr. Cora Caeli and Sr. Magnificat Rose share how they live Lent as religious sisters, reflecting on why the cross is not something to avoid but to embrace—especially as we repent, convert, and cling to Christ throughout these forty days. Get your copy of Witness today, with a foreword by Jonathan Roumie from The Chosen. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

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666. Kathleen 'Kass' Byrd. Natchitoches History, Part 1.

Louisiana Anthology Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2026

666. Kathleen Kass Byrd, part 1, joins us to discuss her book on the history of Natchitoches. "Kathleen M. Byrd's Natchitoches, Louisiana, 1803–1840 is an examination of one French Creole community as it transitioned from a fur-trading and agricultural settlement under the control of Spain to a critical American outpost on the Spanish/American frontier and finally to a commercial hub and jumping-oﬀ point for those heading west. Byrd focuses on historic events in the area and the long-term French Creole residents as they adapted to the American presence. She also examines the eﬀect of the arrival of the Americans, with their Indian trading house and Indian agency, on Native groups and considers how members of the enslaved population took advantage of opportunities for escape presented by a new international border. Byrd shows how the arrival of Americans forever changed Natchitoches, transforming it from a sleepy frontier settlement into a regional commercial center and staging point for pioneers heading into Texas" (LSU Pr.). Kathleen M. Byrd (nicknamed Kass) is a distinguished anthropologist, archaeologist, and historian specializing in the history and prehistory of Louisiana, particularly the Natchitoches region. A native of Connecticut, she earned her B.A. from Marquette University, an M.A. from LSU (focusing on coastal subsistence patterns), and a Ph.D. from the University of Florida. She served as Louisiana's state archaeologist for 15 years before joining Northwestern State University (NSU) in Natchitoches in 1994, where she later became director of the School of Social Sciences for 12 years until her retirement. Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 222 years. Order your copy today! This week in the Louisiana Anthology. Rida Johnson Young. Naughty Marietta: A Musical Comedy in Two Acts. PLACE: New Orleans. TIME: About 1780. SCENE: The Place d'Armes. A broad open space with the levee at back. There is a path along this levee bordered on both sides by tall trees, some of which are draped with the gray Southern moss. There is just a glimpse of the Mississippi between these trees. Along the levee from time to time as act progresses, people of various nationalities past. Mexicans, Indians, Spaniards, Negroes, etc. At extreme L. is an arcaded street in which are booths for flower sellers, cake and confectionary ' sailors, etc. Over this arcade are the high latticed windows of dwellings in old Creole style. There is a door at L. into one of these houses. At right is the getaway entrance to the St. Louis Cathedral. Up stage in centre is a large fountain. The top of the fountain is in the form of a large urn. The pedestal leading from the basin to the urn must be large enough for a person to stand up in. The fountain is dry. This week in Louisiana history. February 20, 1811. President Madison signed bill providing for Louisiana'a statehood. This week in New Orleans history. February 20, 2013: FEMA Archaeologists Discover One of the Oldest Native American Artifacts South of Lake Pontchartrain. Release Number: DR-1603/07-989, NEW ORLEANS ' Pottery sherds, animal bones and pieces of clay tobacco pipes are among the items recently discovered by a team of archaeologists under contract to the Federal Emergency Management Agency surveying land near Bayou St. John in New Orleans. 'It was a bit of a surprise to find this,' said FEMA Louisiana Recovery Office Deputy Director of Programs Andre Cadogan, referencing a small, broken pottery fragment. 'We clearly discovered pottery from the late Marksville period, which dates to 300-400 A.D. The pottery was nice, easily dateable, and much earlier than we expected." This week in Louisiana. St. Ann Catholic Church Lenten Fish Fry 3601 Transcontinental Drive Metairie, LA 70006 February 20, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM Website: stannchurchandshrine.org Email: office@stannchurchandshrine.org Phone: (504) 455‑7071 Price: Plates typically range from $10'$15, with combo options available. During Lent, many Catholic churches across Louisiana host Friday seafood dinners as both fundraisers and meatless‑Friday observances. St. Ann's annual Fish Fry is one of the most popular in Jefferson Parish: Plate Options: Fried fish, shrimp, or a combo plate, served with fries, coleslaw, and hushpuppies. Dine‑In or Drive‑Thru: Quick service for families on the go, with indoor seating available. Community Atmosphere: Proceeds support parish ministries, school programs, and local outreach. Postcards from Louisiana. Florida Street Blowhards at LSU. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook.

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Me First! – February 20, 2026

Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership with Ruth Haley Barton

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2026 4:42

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/family-devotions/20260220fam.mp3 Listen to Devotion Read: Matthew 6:1-6,16-21 [Jesus said] “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:5-6 Me First! In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. “ME FIRST!” Have you ever said that—or thought it? Maybe it was about the first slice of cake, being first in line, or getting a turn with something fun. Sometimes it even happens at school or on the playground. Kids aren't the only ones who think this way. Grown-ups do too—even if they don't say it out loud. Adults like to be noticed, thanked, or chosen first too. That “me first” feeling sneaks into all our hearts sometimes. But Jesus was different. Jesus lived with a “you first” attitude. He didn't think about himself first—he thought about others first. As we enter Lent, we see this clearly. Jesus knows he is going to suffer and die, but he still spends time teaching his disciples. He patiently helps them learn how to serve God with humble hearts. Jesus teaches them something important: Don't do good things just so people notice you. Don't chase things like money, popularity, or being number one. Those things don't save you. What matters most is loving God and trusting him. That's a great lesson—but it's also a hard one. Just like the disciples, we mess this up a lot. We put ourselves first. We get upset when we're not noticed or chosen. When we realize that, we see how much we need Jesus' forgiveness. So we come to God humbly. We don't brag or show off. We pray honestly. And God does something amazing. He forgives us, loves us, and promises us a home in heaven. Not because we earned it—but because Jesus already did the work for us. This is why Ash Wednesday is important. We come together to admit our sins—not to show off, but because our hearts are sorry. We stand with other believers and say, “Yes, we need Jesus.” And then we hear the best words of all: “You are forgiven.” Prayer: Dear God, help us notice when we put ourselves first instead of you or others. Keep us humble. Help us say “I'm sorry” for our sins and trust your forgiveness. Fill our hearts with joy so we can share your love with others and put them first! In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire. Questions for Younger Children How does it make you feel when someone says, “Me first!” and won't share or take turns? Jesus puts others first. What is one small way you could put someone else first today—at home, at school, or with a friend? Questions for Elementary Age Children When we say Jesus had a “you first” attitude, what does that tell us about how he treated people? Why do you think God cares more about what's in our hearts than about how things look on the outside? Questions for Middle School and Above Why is it sometimes hard to put others first, even when we know we should? During Lent and on Ash Wednesday, how can saying “I'm sorry” to God help us remember how much we need Jesus? Download Family Devotions Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

BONUS | Invitation to Lent: Participating in the Paschal Mystery

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 37:24

Here we are on the threshold of another Lenten season! Since the Paschal mystery is the culmination of the Lenten season, we are going to "begin with the end in mind" by exploring this great mystery of our faith and where it might be playing itself out in our own lives. Relying on Fr. Ron Rolheiser's description in The Holy Longing, Ruth identifies the five movements of the Paschal mystery and the inner dynamics that can help us enter more fully into our own journey of suffering, death, burial, and transformation. This bonus episode is intended to usher you in to the Lenten season with purpose and thoughtfulness. Mentioned in the episode: The Holy Longing by Ronald Rolheiser Music Credit: Kingdom Come by Aaron Niequist Returning from Lent Music in Solitude There's still room to join us in our upcoming course, Theology that Shapes the Soul. Many Christian leaders have a well-formed theology of what they believe about God, but far less clarity about a theology of spiritual formation: how those beliefs shape the way we live and lead. Led by Ruth Haley Barton, Theology That Shapes the Soul is a six-week guided experience for leadership groups who want to engage a biblical, theological, and spiritual framework for Christian formation—not merely as abstract ideas, but as truth to be embodied within communities. The course begins on March 4, 2026. Find out more and register here. We've started a Substack! This will be “a new home for reflection, conversation, and connection with our transforming community.” Our new Substack is called “On the Journey with the Transforming Center,” and it will include thoughtful reflections from Ruth Haley Barton and the Transforming Center team, as well as alumni and friends of the Transforming Center, occasional special video teachings and guided practices, and space to interact with our content and respond with how God is working in your life through the posts. This will also be the new home of all of our podcast patron content! There will be free and paid tiers. We'd love for you to join us over on Substack. Support the podcast! During Lent we are providing paid Substack supporters guided practices to help them journey through Lent meaningfully. Led by members of our TC alumni community, these practices include a prayer of surrender, a scripture based breath prayer, a practice of holy naming and truth telling before God, a guided meditation of one of the Gospel accounts of Jesus' passion and more. Become a paid member of Substack today to receive these practices and so much more! The Transforming Center exists to create space for God to strengthen leaders and transform communities. You are invited to join our next Transforming Community:® A Two-year Spiritual Formation Experience for Leaders. Delivered in nine quarterly retreats, this practice-based learning opportunity is grounded in the conviction that the best thing you bring to leadership is your own transforming self! Learn more and apply HERE. *this post contains affiliate links

What a Mess – February 18, 2026

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 18, 2026 4:29

https://wels2.blob.core.windows.net/family-devotions/20260218fam.mp3 Listen to Devotion Read: Isaiah 59:12-20 The LORD looked and was displeased that there was no justice. He saw that there was no one, he was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so his own arm achieved salvation for him, and his own righteousness sustained him. He put on righteousness as his breastplate, and the helmet of salvation on his head; he put on the garments of vengeance and wrapped himself in zeal as in a cloak. Isaiah 59:15b-17 What a Mess In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Have your parents ever walked into your room, looked around, and said, “What a mess! Who is going to clean this up?” Uh-oh—that's never a good sign. Maybe toys are everywhere and clothes are on the floor. It's as if everything just exploded! Or think about this: you worked really hard on something—maybe you cleaned your room or finished a school project—and then later it's messy again. That can feel really frustrating. You might think, “Hey! I already fixed this! How did it get messed up again?” God knows what that feels like. God created the world perfectly. When he finished, the Bible says God looked at everything he made and said, “It is very good.” The project was done. No mess at all! But then sin entered the world. Adam and Eve disobeyed God. Their relationship with him was broken. The world itself became broken too—people got sick, argued, and died. This was not how God wanted things to be. The perfect world he loved was now a mess. So God asked the big question: Who is going to clean this up? The Bible says in Isaiah, “He was appalled that there was no one to help . . . so his own arm achieved salvation.” That means God saw that no person could fix the mess of sin. People tried—but failed. Kings made bad choices. Prophets were ignored. God's people kept turning away from him. So God did something amazing. He cleaned up the mess himself. God sent his own Son, Jesus, to rescue the world. On Ash Wednesday, we start the season of Lent. Lent helps us to remember how serious sin is—but also how great Jesus' love is. During Lent, we think about how Jesus suffered, died, and rose again to forgive our sins. Sin made a huge mess—but Jesus didn't walk away from it. He stepped right into it to save us. Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son to clean up the mess of sin. Use the season of Lent to remind me how serious sin is, and how much Jesus did for me. Amen. The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire. Questions for Younger Children How do you feel when you clean something up and it gets messy again right away? Jesus fixed the biggest mess—sin. What is one thing you can thank Jesus for today? Questions for Elementary Age Children Why couldn't people fix the sin problem by themselves? What does Lent help us remember about Jesus and what he did for us? Questions for Middle School and Above Why is it important to know that only God—not people—could save us from sin? During Lent, what is one way you can remember Jesus' love in your everyday life (at school, at home, or with friends)? Download Family Devotions Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

2/16/26 - Fr. Casey Jones - Does the Catholic Church Charge for Annulments?

Ask A Priest Live

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2026 43:15

Father Casey Jones is a priest of the Diocese of Venice, Florida. He currently serves as the pastor of St. Elizabeth Seton Parish and school in Naples, Florida. In Today's Show: Is it wrong to feel that giving up our sufferings isn't enough? Does the Catholic Church charge for annulments? How can pregnant women with morning sickness receive the Eucharist respectfully? During Lent, is it appropriate for the congregation to recite the Apostles' Creed? Why were options for readings created in the Ordinary Form? Do we have to hate ourselves to be humble? What would be the virtuous way to handle a spouse being rude? Why do we call Mary the Mother of God? What is our responsibility towards our guardian angel? Why do people go to confession if they say they are sinless? Can a Novena be completed if a day is missed? If an AI model were to gain full sentience, would we need to treat it differently from how we use other technologies? Visit the show page at thestationofthecross.com/askapriest to listen live, check out the weekly lineup, listen to podcasts of past episodes, watch live video, find show resources, sign up for our mailing list of upcoming shows, and submit your question for Father!

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The Patrick Madrid Show: July 31, 2025 - Hour 2

The Patrick Madrid Show

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 51:05

Patrick wrestles with the rise of foul language in daily life, pulling in emails and thoughtful calls to weigh how movies and workplaces normalize swearing. Practical ideas like media filtering services and scriptural reflections tumble in, stirring lively back-and-forth about raising children and fostering respect. A sudden shift brings up deep questions about biblical history and the nature of God beyond time, all woven together in Patrick’s signature blend of candor and humor. Karen (email) - Is St John Henry Newman the same person as St John Newman? (00:28) Jane (email) - Do people swear more at work nowadays than they did decades ago? (01:37) James (email) - I sometimes hear other Catholics say that swearing is ok. I refer them to Col 3:8. I also tell my children that he who curses lives a cursed life. (11:23) Nicki - On the topic of movies and language, we have a special program that allows us to take out bad language. (13:26) Todd - As a Catholic man, I ignore it when people take God's name in vain. During Lent, I gave up profanity and I had a great change in my life. (22:11) Gale - There is an app called VidAngel that removes cuss words and avoids sex scenes and nudity. (26:39) Nancy - How do we know that the Jews are the Chosen people? Also how do we know that God is out of time and space in relation to Purgatory? (29:11) Patrick shares more bible versus in response to God being outside of time (39:23) Mark - I agree and have trouble with bad language. Can it be good in story telling for adults? Mark Twain used the N word sometimes. (47:45)

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Episode 306 - Chesterton in Lent, Pt. 5 (Re-Air)

god jesus christ bible christianity scripture spirituality philosophy catholic lent catholicism sacrament chesterton re air during lent gilbert keith chesterton

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025

During Lent this year, we are revisiting reflections on the works of a great Catholic mind of the 20th century, Gilbert Keith Chesterton. Fr. Scott is joined by his brother, Fr. Mark Lawler, an internationally recognized expert on the works of G. K. Chesterton. This is Part 5.https://archive.org/download/LetsTalkCatholic/LTC-138RR-Chesterton-in-Lent-Pt5.mp3

Episode 305 - Chesterton in Lent, Pt. 4 (Re-air)

god jesus christ bible christianity scripture spirituality philosophy catholic lent catholicism sacrament chesterton re air during lent gilbert keith chesterton

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2025

During Lent this year, we will revisit reflections on the works of a great Catholic mind of the 20th century, Gilbert Keith Chesterton. Fr. Scott is joined by his brother, Fr. Mark Lawler, an internationally recognized expert on the works of G. K. Chesterton. This is Part 4.https://archive.org/download/LetsTalkCatholic/LTC-138RR-Chesterton-in-Lent-Pt4.mp3

Lent 2025 - Avoiding An Unwarranted Collision Course

Narrate Church

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2025 31:31

This week's scripture: Psalm 63v1-8 Luke 13v1-9This week, Adam explores the 40 days of Lent as an opportunity to give the Holy Spirit space to awaken us to a possible collision course we may be on in our lives. During Lent, we're reminded our great hope is the mercy of God, but our responsibility is nothing less than following Jesus wherever He leads.

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2nd Sunday of Lent: Lent Demands Vulnerability with Oscar Rivera

Ave Explores

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025 50:38

During Lent, when life feels busy, noisy, and overwhelming, making room for the Lord is more important than ever. In this episode of Ave Explores: Lent with Sr. Josephine Garrett, CSFN, Oscar Rivera, host of Ave Spotlight, explores how Lent challenges us to embrace vulnerability and authenticity—not just with God, but with others. When we resist the temptation to close ourselves off and instead open our hearts, we create space for real spiritual growth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how Lent serves as a training ground for deeper faith and genuine connection. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

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Episode 302 - Chesterton in Lent, Pt. 2 w/ Fr. Mark Lawler (Re-Air)

god jesus christ bible christianity scripture spirituality philosophy catholic lent catholicism sacrament chesterton lawler re air during lent fr mark gilbert keith chesterton

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2025

During Lent this year, we will re-broadcast reflections on the works of a great Catholic mind of the 20th century, Gilbert Keith Chesterton. Fr. Scott is joined by his brother, Fr. Mark Lawler, an internationally recognized expert on the works of G. K. Chesterton. This is Part 2.https://archive.org/download/LetsTalkCatholic/LTC-138RR-Chesterton-in-Lent-Pt2.mp3

Ep. 10.2 - Mary: Bearing the Greatest Sorrows

Arise, My Darling Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 36:38

We continue to reflect on Mary as she "mirrors the loftiest sentiments of which the human heart is capable." This episode we unpack "the strength that is capable of bearing the greatest sorrows." During Lent, we are all invited to visit places of suffering in our own hearts and reflect upon them. How do these places make us feel? To what capacity have we invited others into our sorrows? What role do we allow Mary to play in our places of sorrow? Andrea and Lizz were also both drawn to deeper mediation through pieces of artwork and invite you to be aware of what is aiding you in your meditation.The Return from Calvary by Herbert Gustave SchmalzRachel Weeping for Her ChildrenRedemptoris Mater*apologies for Lizz's mic quality, it was not working during the recording but the content was so good we just rolled with itSend us your comments!

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1st Sunday of Lent: Jesus's Heart is Safe with Mari Pablo

Ave Explores

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2025 39:32

Being rooted in love is key to thriving in life and experiencing a fruitful Lent. In this episode of Ave Explores: Lent with Sr. Josephine Garett, CSFN, Mari Pablo shares how trusting in Jesus's love and mercy—and seeking refuge in his Sacred Heart—has guided her through life's challenges and the depths of her own heart. During Lent, as we intentionally pray, fast, and give, Christ offers us comfort, rest, and transformation. We would love it if you could leave a written review on Apple and share with your friends! Editing provided by Forte Catholic (https://www.fortecatholic.com/)

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The Spiritual Meaning of Lent: Lenten Conference #1

Ad Jesum per Mariam

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2025 34:00

The Spiritual Meaning of Lent: Lenten Conference #1 Psalm 95 and Psalm 51: The Foundations of Lent's Spiritual Journey During each Friday of the Lenten Season, there will be a Lenten Devotional Conference. This is the first week within this series. Each conference will appear singularly on the Website, SoundCloud, Facebook and iPod platforms. All conferences will also appear within this post. This first conference reflects on Psalm 95 and Psalm 51, emphasizing their significance in the season of Lent and the life of the Church. Psalm 95 is a daily call to praise, worship, and recognize God's sovereignty, but it also warns against hardening one's heart, as the Israelites did in the wilderness. It highlights the necessity of listening to God's voice today, not delaying obedience. During Lent, the Church abstains from saying “Hallelujah” as a symbolic act of preparation, reinforcing that true praise must come from a purified heart. The conference also discusses Psalm 51, a penitential psalm of King David after his sin with Bathsheba, stressing the importance of compunction—a deep sorrow for sin that moves one toward true repentance. Lent, therefore, is not merely about resisting temptation but about allowing God to transform the heart so that one can truly praise Him with sincerity and purity. Listen to this first devotional Lenten Conference and let it transform your heart. Join us virtually (or physically each week for additional Lenten conferences. Listen to: The Spiritual Meaning of Lent ------------------------------------------------ It begins as a call of praise. And so, note that the first thing the church says every day is to lift up the voice and give praise to God. And we pause at that moment, this command to praise the Lord. The word that we don't use during Lent, which I'm going to use now simply to say it so that we're all on the same page, is hallelujah. It is the great cry of Easter victory, and it literally means praise the Lord. And so note in a sense, there is this command to lift up the voice celebrating the great things God has done with a fullness of praise. And yet during Lent, we don't use that word, which expresses and communicates praise in its utter fullness. Hear more within the conference. ------------------------------------------------ Image: Christ of St. John of The Cross: Spanish Painter: Salvador Dalí: 1951 The painting is known as the Christ of Saint John of the Cross, because its design is based on a drawing by the 16th-century Spanish friar John of the Cross. Note: This is a low-resolution picture for copyright purposes. ------------------------------------------------ Note: This marks the First Friday of the current Lenten Season, featuring special formation conferences covering a range of seasonal topics. As we move forward within the Season, each week's separate post will have various links to the other conferences. There will also be one post that has all conference. As we move forward, look for the various posts and links.

Episode 301 - Chesterton in Lent, Pt. 1 (Re-Air)