Podcasts about Eleventh

The War between the Galactic Republic (Canada) and the Trade Federation (America) continues and is finally affecting things that actually matter like Doctor Who as Catherine Tate and other guests have bowed out of Edmonton Expo due to overcomplicated plane shenanigans as available flights plummet between our two nations! In better news, Steven sings the praises of the BBC show Ludwig, which is like Doctor Who if Doctor Who was a crime procedural, and Gallifrey One continues with their second wave of guest announcements! Plus more exciting Circuit Breaker updates, New Paradigm Dalek dollies, more mutant heads aka Funko Pops, and another edition of The Timelash!  Links: Support Radio Free Skaro on Patreon Katy Manning, Frazer Hines. Simon Guerrier, Stephen Cole announced for Gallifrey One Catherine Tate, other guests cancel Edmonton Expo appearances due to lack of Edmonton-LA flights Circuit Breaker: The Doctor and the Three Witches Circuit Breaker: Momento Mori Waris Hussein and Carole Ann Ford on The Whoniverse Show Redone Doctor In Distress video by the online community, supporting the Red Cross The Underwater Menace and The Faceless Ones event at Riverside Studios on October 3 Doctor Who 2005-2022 coming to Kanopy Sep 4, seasons added weekly Eleventh and Twelfth Doctor, New Paradigm Dalek sets coming from Character Options New Doctor Who Funko Pops released Aug 28 Big Finish: Doctor Who – The Sixth Doctor Adventures: Reunion Big Finish: Doctor Who – The Eleventh Doctor Adventures: Hidden in Plain Sight released The Timelash

Japanese true crime and Japanese folklore, one candle at a time.In June 1981, a Japanese literature student in Paris asked a Dutch classmate to come to his apartment and help him with his German pronunciation. Renée Hartevelt was twenty-five. She said yes because she was the kind of person who noticed when somebody was sitting on their own.Issei Sagawa confessed within days. He was never convicted, never imprisoned, and never spent a single night in a cell. He spent the next thirty-six years being interviewed, published, booked and paid — and at one point, employed as a restaurant critic.This episode pairs his case with the jikininki: the Buddhist hungry ghost, cursed to devour the dead every night through a throat too narrow to swallow anything at all. A creature no court can touch, no prison can hold, and no executioner can reach — one that ends only when somebody finally decides to stop feeding it.Two stories about an appetite that was never the crime.It was the sentence.⸻Contains: graphic violence, cannibalism, sexual violence (referenced, not depicted), and detailed discussion of a real victim. Listener discretion advised.Chapters 00:00 The Lighting 02:40 The Priest at the Hermitage 15:30 Renée 20:40 The Woman in the Ground-Floor Apartment 27:30 The Eleventh of June 36:00 The Hole in the Law 40:00 The Godfather 43:30 The Rite 50:00 The Ones Who Keep The Candles Lit⸻There is an old Japanese game. A hundred candles are lit in a windowless room. Every story told puts one out. Nobody agrees on what arrives when the last one dies — only that you should not be there to see it.This is Candle 001.Ninety-nine to go...

August 22, 2026Today's Reading: Introit for Trinity 12 - Psalm 70:2b, 4a, 5b; antiphon: Psalm 70:1-2aDaily Lectionary: 1 Kings 2:1-27; 1 Corinthians 14:1-16:24; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13“You are my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay!” (Psalm 70:5)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Psalm 70 expresses a prayer that every believer in God has prayed: “Help!” “Make haste, O God, to deliver me! O Lord, make haste to help me!” (v. 1). It is the most basic and sincerest prayer.What the exact situation of David, the author of the Psalm, was, we do not know. David had his sworn enemies. He had conquered rivals within Israel and many from other nations as well. The number of men slain by him was in the thousands. As a result, many people were out to get him. People who, as he put it, “delighted in my hurt.” (vs. 2)Some might think that a man like King David wouldn't need any help taking care of his enemies. Remember how quickly he dispatched Goliath? David could handle himself. Who would David have been afraid of? But David knew that his successes in battle were only a gift from God.For example, when they tried talking him out of fighting Goliath, he told them, “The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” And during the pre-battle trash-talking, David told Goliath, “You come to me with a sword … but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down…” (1st Samuel 17:45-46). David didn't trust in his own strength, but he relied on God, his help and deliverer.You probably haven't had anyone plot to kill you (and hopefully, you never will!) Yet, you can still relate to the need to be rescued from your enemies. Have you had kids put you down to build themselves up? Have they said unkind things? Made fun of you in front of others? Mocked you behind your back? Teenagers can be cruel. While going through these situations is no fun, take heart, cry out to God for help, and the Lord will deliver you, too. In fact, the Lord God Almighty has already delivered you from your greatest enemies: sin and death. Jesus, the Son of David, fought Satan and defeated him. He gave Himself up for you on the cross, and His victory over the grave in His resurrection is complete and final. Now all who are in Him are delivered and will be forever. Therefore, rejoice and be glad in Him and say evermore: “God is great!” (vs. 4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. Seek Him alone Who did atone, Who did your souls deliver. O seek Him first, All you who thirst For grace that fails you never. In ev'ry need Seek Him indeed; To every heart He will impart His blessings without measure. (LSB 557:3)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

August 21, 2026Today's Reading: 1 Kings 1:1-4, 15-35Daily Lectionary: 1 Kings 1:1-4, 15-35; 1 Corinthians 12:14-31“The Young woman was very beautiful, and she was of service to the king…” (1 Kings 4:4)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.We read some very weird things in the Bible; the story of Abishag is one of them. At this time, King David was old and advanced in years. He is described as bedridden and in need of constant attention. This is a far cry from the warrior king who, as a young man, killed Philistines by the thousands. So, his servants decide to find a young, beautiful woman to “…wait on the king and be in his service. Let her lie in your arms, that my lord the king may be warm.” (3) This was long before modern medicine, and some have supposed that the servants believed that by lying in David's arms, some of Abishag's youth and vigor would get passed on to him. Others suppose that, given David's lust for women, they thought a young, beautiful virgin might get the old king excited and acting like a young man again. Maybe he would even take her on as another wife or concubine. In antiquity, polygamy was widely practiced. Their logic was: married women are provided for by their husbands; rich men can afford to provide for many women; therefore, rich men can have multiple wives. Further, there were concubines. These were not illicit mistresses, but more like “lesser wives.” All of this is logical, perhaps, but not good because it goes against God's design of one woman for one man. Whatever their thinking, it was disrespectful of Abishag, who got treated like a blanket in all of this! “[Abishag] was very beautiful, and she was of service to the king and attended him, but the king knew her not.” (4) –That last part, about “knowing her not,” is a euphemism meaning they did not have a sexual relationship.What is the point of this story? Some speculate that the story highlights David's change and repentance; now, even with a beautiful woman in his arms, he is so pious that he will not take advantage of her, having truly learned from his sins with Bathsheba. Others think the story is told to describe how sickly, frail, and weak King David was and why an heir needed to take his place. What else can we learn from this? Some men have always viewed women as merely objects existing to serve them. We've come a long way, but sadly, this view still exists. If you found this story disturbing, remember that our true worth is not found in how useful we are to someone who wants to use us for selfish reasons; rather, our true value lies in being a child of God for whom Christ died. Incredibly, Jesus, the Son of David, came not to use people and have them serve Him, but rather to serve us and to give His life as a ransom for all.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Thank you, Lord, for serving us with your death on the cross and opening the kingdom of heaven. Amen.Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

August 20, 2026Today's Reading: Catechism: What sins should we confess?Daily Lectionary: 2 Samuel 12:1-25; 2 Samuel 13:1-19:43; 1 Corinthians 12:1-13“Nathan said to David, ‘You are the man!'” (2 Samuel 12:7a)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Put yourself in Nathan's shoes. How'd you like it if God sent you to confront the most powerful man in the nation to call him out for a sin –a man who was a warrior who killed thousands of his enemies and had recently been involved in a murder? Nathan had tremendous courage, but also wisdom from on high.Nathan's approach to David offers a master class in how to rebuke sinners. He tells David a story about a rich man and a poor man and gets David angry to the point he exclaims that the rich man is guilty and deserves to die for stealing the poor man's beloved little lamb. Nathan has him right where he wants him, then he springs the trap: “You are the man!” and he unloads on David for his great sins.Nathan not only reveals all the evil David tried to cover up, he also begins to pronounce the punishment that God told him would ensue. Because he used the Ammonites to kill Uriah, they would never cease attacking him. The Lord would also raise up discord in David's own house, and his wives would cheat on him, and it would be widely known.As far as we know, this is the first time anyone tried to confront David for his sin. What would David do? Would he respond in rage and lash out at Nathan? David is an exceptional man in that, even though he had been deluded and engaged in so much evil, he also can now clearly see his sin and is ready to be done with it. Many people will double down and deny and retaliate when confronted, but to his credit, David humbles himself and confesses. And Nathan responds right away: “The Lord has put away your sin; you shall not die.”God sent Nathan to David, not to put him down, but to save him. David was stuck in sin and living in unrepentance. That is the way that leads to death and damnation. God used Nathan to humble David and lead him to confess. Confession and humility is the way that leads to life. “But if we confess our sins, God who is faithful and just, will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”Sinners who turn from their sins and seek help from God will receive forgiveness, and because of Jesus, we will live even though we die. But take note: forgiveness and eternal salvation does not mean we suffer no consequences for our actions in this life. God punished David severely for his actions. We, too, must face the consequences of our sins in this life, but Christ promises a day when we will be free from even this, when we will be like the angels in their innocence, and He will wipe every tear from our eyes.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.God, be merciful to me, a sinner. Amen.Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

August 19, 2026Today's Reading: 2 Samuel 11:1-27Daily Lectionary: 2 Samuel 11:1-27; 1 Corinthians 11:17-34“But the thing that David had done displeased the Lord.” (2 Samuel 11:27b)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.How could this happen? God said that David was a man after His own heart: David trusted God and was a model of faithfulness, honoring God in both word and deed. But in our passage today, we read how this same great king slept with the wife of one of his trusted warriors, impregnated her, and tried to cover it up with lies. Then, when deception wouldn't work, he turned to murder. So, again: How could this happen? The same way it almost always does. “But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.” (James 1:14-15) It started with just one look. He saw a beautiful woman naked, and instead of looking away, he kept looking and started thinking. He started to wonder about and delight in the idea of something wicked. At some point, he also came up with a justification for himself. I imagine it went like this: I am the king. I should get to have any woman I want. I deserve this! And at that point, he said to his servant, Bring her to me.David had several wives and concubines. He wasn't starved for sexual attention. Though it may have started as lust, the real sin is greed (failing to be content with what you have been given). If he justified his actions the way I think he did, then it was ultimately driven by pride, accompanied by a sense of entitlement.As we will see tomorrow, the consequences of David's sins were enormous. So learn from his downfall. Don't excuse small sins. Look away from those images on the screen. Do not delight in wicked things. Be content with what you have and do not think you are entitled to more. You, too, are capable of great evil if you let sin go unchecked. For King David, what started with one look later grew into murder. So, take heed lest you stumble. (1 Cor. 10:12)The story of David's fall is an important warning, but here's something much more comforting: Christ Himself was tempted in every way as we are, yet was without sin. (Heb. 4:15) Where we and so many others have failed and given in to desire, Christ stood strong. He kept Himself holy and pure so He could offer Himself up as the perfect sacrifice for our sins. And that perfect sacrifice on the cross covers all sins -big and small- for those who trust in Him. In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Should some lust or sharp temptation Fascinate my sinful mind, Draw me to Your cross and passion, And new courage I shall find. Or should Satan press me hard, Let me then be on my guard, ‘Saying Christ for me was wounded,' That the tempter flee confounded. (LSB 421:2)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

August 18, 2026Today's Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10 or 1 Corinthians 15:1-10Daily Lectionary: 2 Samuel 7:18-29; 1 Corinthians 10:23-11:16“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God…” (Ephesians 2:8)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Lutherans love to say we are saved by grace through faith. But, as Luther would ask in his catechism, What does this mean? No text explains this better than Ephesians 2. Paul explains to his readers that before coming to Christ, spiritually, they were dead. Not neutral or pretty good, or able to help themselves if they tried harder or anything like that. No. Spiritually, they were dead, and they were damned. Like the rest of mankind, they were following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air- that spirit now at work in the sons of disobedience, and carrying out the desires of the flesh. (v. 2-3) These are the three great enemies of God: the world, the flesh, and the devil.The world is the pressure we feel from outside of ourselves, coming from our friends or what is advertised to us as a good time. We want to fit in and be accepted, so we listen to these voices instead of listening to God. The flesh is our own personal weaknesses. We all have temptations to which we are prone, but they aren't all the same. Some people are particularly tempted by pride, while others are driven by envy, and still others by lust, and so on. Lastly, there is “the prince of the power of the air,” or as he is better known, the devil. He is real, and as Luther said somewhere, he never takes a vacation. He's like a roaring lion prowling around, waiting to devour you. (1 Peter 5:8) He suggests evil thoughts to you, like he did to Adam and Eve, and like he did to Jesus. And except for Jesus, he has a perfect record of getting people to sin! The world, the flesh, and the devil have made us, along with the rest of mankind, objects of God's wrath. With these things stacked against us, constantly leading us to sin, we are dead. What chance does anyone have given this situation?“But God being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ-by grace you have been saved…” (4-5) Why are some going to make it to heaven? Not because they were good enough. Not because they didn't sin, but because God is merciful and Christ our substitute was good enough. Amazingly, God loves sinners in spite of their sins. What's more, even though sinners are dead in their trespasses, He made some alive in Christ. That's what the Bible calls grace –God's undeserved kindness, His Gift of new life given to people who deserve to be dead.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.By grace! On this I'll rest when dying; In Jesus' promise I rejoice; For though I know my heart's condition, I also know my Savior's voice. My heart is glad, all grief has flown Since I am saved by grace alone. (LSB 566:2)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

Episode Thirteen explains Rule Eleven of the Discernment of Spirits and how humility in consolation and trust in desolation bring balance. The post The Eleventh Rule – Discernment of Spirits /w Fr. Timothy Gallagher – Discerning Hearts Podcasts appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

August 17, 2026Today's Reading: Genesis 4:1-15Daily Lectionary: 2 Samuel 7:1-17; 1 Corinthians 9:24-10:22“sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, and you must rule over it.” (Genesis 4:7b)In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Cain and Abel both presented offerings to the LORD. Abel brought his best; Cain did not. The LORD regarded Abel's offering, but not Cain's. Cain was shown up by his little brother! “So Cain was very angry…”It's not wrong to get angry. Even Jesus got angry with moneychangers. But when Jesus was angry, He never acted inappropriately. That wasn't the case for Cain, and it often isn't the case with us. When someone else gets the recognition we wanted or thought we deserved, envy and anger are stirred up in us like they were with Cain. Pay attention, therefore, to what God says to him: “Why are you angry? If you do well, will you not be accepted?”The LORD encourages Cain by saying he can improve his situation. It isn't over for him; he can do better next time. So can we. When things don't go our way, we don't have to get angry; often, there's a way to fix the problem. Unfortunately, rage clouds our judgment, and we can't see it. Neither could Cain.The LORD explains that Cain is in a dangerous position: “If you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.” Like a predator waiting to pounce, sin wants to devour him. The LORD commands him to rule over it. Sadly, that command was ignored, and Cain murdered his brother.“What have you done?” said the LORD, “The voice of your brother's blood is crying to me from the ground.” And from there, he cursed Cain and condemned him to be a fugitive. God could have killed Cain. Instead, He exiled him. But Cain thought it was a trap: that he was being set up, “Whoever finds me will kill me!” he cried. But it wasn't a trap. God is really that forgiving. He proved it by putting a mark of protection on Cain to spare his life.I hope your anger never causes you to sin like Cain, and that the Holy Spirit will instead work in you the strength to overcome it. But when you do sin, know this: you also have a mark of protection on you. In Holy Baptism, you have been marked as God's own child. He will not abandon you or forsake you, even if the consequences of your sin cause you to suffer for a while. There's no sin you have committed that will cut you off from God. In the book of Hebrews, the author reminds us that in coming to Christ, we come, “to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.” (12:24) Abel's blood cried out for vengeance. But the precious blood of Jesus declares grace and full forgiveness to all who trust in Him.In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.Abel's blood for vengeance Pleaded to the skies; But the blood of Jesus For our pardon cries. (LSB 433:4)Rev. Joel Shaltanis, pastor of Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX.

The Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 14A)  ORISON: Savior, breathe an evening blessing (Tune: Vesper Hymn) – Dimitri Bortniansky (1751-1825); arr. The Academic Hymnal, 1899 PSALM 105:1-6,16-22 – Margaret Burk (b. 1990) HYMN 699: Jesus, Lover of my soul (Tune: Aberystwyth) – Joseph Parry (1841-1903); vs. 2 harm. Gregory W. Bloch (b. 1977); vs. 3 harm. Simei Monteiro (b. 1943), alt.  NUNC DIMITTIS – Plainsong, Tone V; harm. Vincente Ripollès (1867-1943)  ANTHEM: Domine, salva […]

Join AR Bernard and Rabbi Joe Potasnik as they speak with Chief John Esposito about the circumstances on 9/11, building devleopments since, and more on WABC.

Join AR Bernard and Rabbi Joe Potasnik as they speak with Chief John Esposito about the circumstances on 9/11, building devleopments since, and more on WABC.

July 2026 Book Club:  We're kicking off a new Doctor-cycle by starting at the beginning - with the First Doctor, as we read "The Eleventh Tiger" by David A. McIntee.  Ian, Barbara, and Vicki are along for the journey too, as we explore China in 1865.  Happy reading!    Special thanks to Alasdair Stuart for performing the dramatic reading this month.  You can check out his weekly pop culture newsletter "The Full Lid" as well as see examples of his voice work and writing at https://alasdairstuart.com    Doctor Who is out to competitive tender.  Check out co-host Chris on a 2026 CONsole Room Panel about how to survive the next hiatus, however long that may be, here https://youtu.be/eux-0HWjan0     BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/andwbcpodcast.bsky.social  Email: ANDWBCPodcast@gmail.com  Facebook: http://facebook.com/allnewdoctorwhobookclub  Twitter: @ANDWBCPodcast YouTube: https://youtube.com/@DoctorWhoBookClub

In this episode, Britten continues her series on self-abandonment through the houses of the birth chart, turning toward the Eleventh House. She explores the Eleventh House as a place where self-abandonment can happen when we stop trusting that our voice, hopes, dreams, weirdness, or heart-led vision for the world can be received, constellated around, and shared with others. Topics She Covers: Cancer season, the Moon, and why The Emergence Astrology Pathway begins with Cancer on purpose. The way Cancer invites us to leave home in order to come more fully home to ourselves. The Moon as the first voice that claimed Britten and invited her to come home, listen to herself, and name the no that would change her life. Astrology as a home inside the self, a living and responsive system that's a part of the interconnectedness of all things, and a way of building a place where it becomes safe to emerge. The Eleventh House as the house of good spirit, community, networks, patrons, groups, and those we constellate around us through shared hopes and dreams for the world. Self-abandonment in the Eleventh House as giving up on humans, magic, imagination, or the possibility of finding the people who want to build the world with us. Through the lens of the Eleventh House, this episode explores the restoration of wonder, pleasure, delight, and trust in people, and the possibility of singing the song of your Eleventh House spirit even before you know who will hear it.   Learn More About The Emergence Astrology Pathway: The Emergence Astrology Pathway is not a traditional astrology course. It's an experience you give yourself if you long to repair, recover, renew, and remember your power. Held inside the gentle embrace of this magical language.  Here Britten teaches what she's found and developed as an astrologer who helps people tune into the most authentic call within. Most of what she offers are techniques and insights that no human teacher taught her. Doors only once a year! Enrollment is now open through June 30. You can learn more and register here.   +++   E M E R G E N C E  A S T R O L O G Y ⁠⁠https://brittenlarue.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@brittenlarue Order Living Astrology Join my newsletter here Check out my new podcast CRYSTAL BALLERS on Spotify, Podbean, and Apple.   +++   Podcast art: Angela George. Podcast music: Jonathan Koe. 

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Jeffrey Morrow. Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary First Reading: Second Chronicles 24: 17-25 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 89: 4-5, 29-30, 31-32, 33-34 Alleluia: Second Corinthians 8: 9 Gospel: Matthew 6: 24-34   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 20, 2026. The readings are from 2 Chronicles 24:17-25, Psalm 89:4-5, 29-30, 31-32, 33-34, Matthew 6:24-34 (Saturday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time). Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

This reflection was originally published in 2024. Although the Redemptorist's title, ministry assignment, and the dates mentioned reflect the time of its original publication, the message of the readings and the reflection continue to speak meaningfully to us today.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Friday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday/ Romuald, Abbot First Reading: Second Kings 11: 1-4, 9-18, 20 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 132: 11, 12, 13-14, 17-18 Alleluia: Matthew 5: 3 Gospel: Matthew 6: 19-23   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Read Online“So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?' or ‘What are we to drink?' or ‘What are we to wear?' All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.” Matthew 6:31–34In the fifth century, Saint Augustine wrote The City of God, one of the most important works in Catholic thought and Western philosophy. In it, he contrasted the Christian “City of God” with the pagan “City of Man,” responding to those who blamed Christianity for the decline of the Roman Empire. He writes: “Thus, two cities have been formed by two loves: the earthly city by a love of self to the point of contempt for God, and the heavenly city by a love of God to the point of contempt for self. The former glories in itself, while the latter glories in the Lord.” (XIV.28)At the time, the once-mighty Roman Empire was in steady decline, and many falsely attributed its downfall to the rise of Christianity. Augustine, however, defended the faith, offering a profound theological and philosophical exposition of history, divine providence, and the ultimate destiny of humanity. By contrasting these two fundamental orientations of civilization—the City of Man, built on self-love and earthly glory, and the City of God, founded on divine love and eternal truth—Augustine illuminated the true path to human flourishing and salvation.Augustine's words echo Christ's teaching in today's Gospel, offering clarity and encouragement to the faithful of his time who labored to build up the growing Catholic Church. Today, his insights remain just as relevant, guiding the Church amid a world increasingly consumed by materialism and secular values.Which “city” is more attractive to you? If we are to truly build the City of God—or the Kingdom of God, as Jesus calls it—we must remain vigilant against the many secular influences that pull us away from the Gospel and the work of building God's Kingdom.As Jesus teaches, the pagans seek and worry about the things of this world, often at the expense of what is eternal. Yet our Heavenly Father knows our needs, and so we must cultivate an interior disposition of trust in His providence. While we are called to act responsibly, providing diligently for ourselves and our families, we must ultimately recognize that it is God who sustains us when we cooperate with His will. We must do so without fear.Jesus does not condemn responsible stewardship of material goods; rather, He warns against worldly anxiety. As a fundamental disposition, we must always “seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness.” When we do so, “all these things will be given you besides.” In other words, if our greatest love is to build God's Kingdom in our hearts, our families, and our society, we can trust that He will provide for our needs, freeing us to focus entirely on His divine work.Jesus concludes today's Gospel with consoling words: “Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.” This is not a license for imprudence or irresponsibility, as if we are called to live a carefree life without foresight. Rather, it is an invitation to trust in divine providence, living in confidence that when our primary concern is God and His will each day, He will provide for our needs in due measure.Reflect today on whether you truly “seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness.” The best way to discern this is to prayerfully examine the deepest desires of your heart. When your desire is for God's Kingdom, you will experience peace and interior order. When your heart clings to worldly concerns, you will be anxious and burdened by many things. Strive to order your desires properly, and God will lavish upon you all that is good and necessary for a joyful participation in the glorious and eternal City of God.Most glorious King, You came to establish Your Kingdom in our hearts, our families, and our world. Too often, I fail to recognize its glory and instead labor to build an earthly city of passing pleasure, wealth, and comfort. Draw me ever closer to You, Lord, and open my eyes of faith, that I may seek only Your will and become a true instrument of the Kingdom You desire to establish. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Jesus at the Sermon on the Mount, by August MüllerSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

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This reflection was originally published in 2024. Although the Redemptorist's title, ministry assignment, and the dates mentioned reflect the time of its original publication, the message of the readings and the reflection continue to speak meaningfully to us today.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Sirach 48: 1-14 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 97: 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7 Alleluia: Romans 8: 15bc Gospel: Matthew 6: 7-15 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Read OnlineJesus said to his disciples: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” Matthew 6:19–21Today's Gospel is one that many find difficult to take literally. It is common for people to dream of wealth and material possessions. In an attempt to reconcile our Lord's teachings with their desires, they might justify the pursuit of riches by promising to be generous with the poor. But what is the ideal we should strive for? Jesus' exhortation is clear: The treasures of this world—money, possessions, power—are fleeting. They are subject to decay, theft, and loss. In contrast, spiritual treasures—virtues, good works, acts of charity, and growth in holiness—are eternal. Recall Luke's version of the Beatitudes, in which Jesus plainly states, “Blessed are you who are poor…” (Luke 6:20). Was Jesus speaking metaphorically, or does literal poverty bestow great blessedness? In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus is recorded slightly differently: “Blessed are the poor in spirit…” (Matthew 5:3). By adding “in spirit,” He emphasizes an interior disposition of detachment from worldly goods. He calls us to be free from the attachments that hinder our union with Him. However, we must be cautious not to assume that we can possess or desire great wealth and remain truly “poor in spirit.” While some are called to use material goods wisely, in accord with God's will, the Gospel ideal is a simplicity of life that fosters detachment from material security. One reason this teaching is difficult to embrace is that material comforts provide a false sense of security. We often find satisfaction in abundance, yet struggle to believe that a life of simplicity and detachment could bring even greater joy. Jesus does not call us to destitution but to a life free from excessive attachment to wealth, where our true security rests in God. Imagine winning an all-expenses-paid trip to the most luxurious resort in the world, offering unparalleled comfort and experiences. Such a prize would naturally seem desirable, even fulfilling. But Jesus' teaching today reminds us that no earthly luxury can compare to the eternal riches of Heaven. The question remains: where do we set our hearts? If we place our ultimate hope in worldly goods, our vision will be darkened, preventing us from seeing the greater good that awaits. But if we seek first the Kingdom of God, our hearts will be filled with His light, guiding us to treasures that will never fade. Though material things are not evil in themselves, Jesus desires that our hearts be properly ordered toward the greater good. He does not condemn wealth itself but warns against its dangers when it becomes an obstacle to spiritual growth. Recall that Jesus did not say it was impossible for the rich to enter His Kingdom, but that it was difficult (cf. Matthew 19:23–24; Mark 10:25). The challenge lies in the attachments wealth creates, fostering a false sense of security and self-sufficiency rather than reliance on God. For this reason, there is great wisdom in choosing the easier path—not only the path to Heaven but also the path to abundant riches in Heaven. That path is one of intentional simplicity, freely embracing a life detached from material excess, so that our desires are purified and freed from worldly temptations. This call to detachment is not only for those who are wealthy but also for those who have little, yet remain consumed by an insatiable longing for more.Reflect today on the profound spiritual truth that when we embrace simplicity—both outwardly and inwardly—we cultivate a deeper trust in God's providence and find our true wealth in His grace. Such spiritual wealth will remain with us for eternity. Choosing it is an act of divine wisdom, leading to eternal rewards beyond imagination, where neither moth nor decay can touch the treasures we store in Heaven. Lord of all riches, You bestow upon the poor and humble treasures beyond imagination. Please free me from inordinate desires for worldly wealth, and set my heart on the true riches of Heaven. Grant me the grace to be disciplined in my possessions and, even more so, in my heart, so that I may desire You and Your will above all else. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: The frosco Jesus the Pantokrator and Teacher among the angels in the church Basilica di Santa Eufemia by Luigi Cavenaghi via Adobe StockSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Second Kings 2: 1, 6-14 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 31: 20, 21, 24 Alleluia: John 14: 23 Gospel: Matthew 6: 1-6, 16-18   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Read OnlineJesus said to his disciples: “In praying, do not babble like the pagans, who think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them. Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. This is how you are to pray: ‘Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…” Matthew 6:7–9Many pagans of Jesus' time believed they could manipulate divine action by sheer persistence, lengthy incantations, or empty repetition. Jesus contrasts this with true prayer, which is about trust in the Father's providence, not coercion. Christian prayer is not about forcing God's hand but about uniting our hearts to His will.Saint Thomas Aquinas offers profound insight into the Lord's Prayer: “Since prayer is the expression of our desires before God, we should only ask for what we ought to desire. The Lord's Prayer not only contains everything we should desire, but it presents them in the proper order—thus shaping not only our petitions but also our hearts” (Summa Theologiae, II-II, 83.9).According to Saint Thomas, prayer begins with truth entering the mind. Before we can choose and desire what is good, we must first recognize what is truly good in the eyes of God. For that reason, the first three petitions of the Lord's Prayer focus on God's glory—the highest good—rather than our needs:“Hallowed be Thy name” expresses the desire that God's holiness be recognized, honored, and made known both within us and through our witness in the world.“Thy Kingdom come” is a plea for God's reign to be established in our hearts and ultimately in the fulfillment of His Kingdom at the end of time.“Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” is a petition that our wills be conformed only to God's divine will, seeking to obey Him as the saints and angels do in Heaven.Once truth enters the mind, the will must choose it by grace. At first, we often pray these petitions out of duty, but as grace strengthens the will, we begin to love them. From there, the will's repeated choice to say “Yes” to God's truth allows our desires to be reordered, forming habits—virtues—within us. After seeking God's glory first, we turn to our own needs, acknowledging our total dependence on Him in the light of Eternal Wisdom:“Give us this day our daily bread” expresses our desire for material sustenance and spiritual nourishment through the Eucharist. As our hearts are transformed, we come to hunger not only for earthly provision but for the Bread of Life, Christ Himself.“Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us” is a plea for God's mercy, teaching us that we must extend forgiveness to everyone if we hope to receive it. Over time, grace enables us to desire mercy more than vengeance, forming our hearts in charity.“Lead us not into temptation” asks for God's help in avoiding situations that might lead us to sin. The more we grow in grace, the more we come to despise sin rather than desire it.“Deliver us from evil” is the final and most complete petition—a plea for liberation from ALL evil: sin, satan, and all that separates us from God. Here, desire reaches its highest purification in which the soul longs for final union with God, free from all evil, and attains it through purified desire.Reflect today on this perfect prayer. Meditate on each petition, allowing each word to shape your mind, will, and desire. Pray it slowly and attentively, letting grace enlighten your mind, strengthen your will, and transform your affections. If you pray these words without fully feeling them at first, persevere and allow grace to work within you, leading you to the point that you truly love what you pray so that you desire rightly, trust fully, and love completely.Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: The Life of Jesus by William Hole By William Brassey HoleSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 17, 2026. The readings are from 2 Kings 2:1, 6-14, Psalm 31:20, 21, 24, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 (Wednesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time). Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

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The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Tuesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Shane Owens. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: First Kings 21: 17-29 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 51: 3-4, 5-6ab, 11 and 16 Alleluia: John 13: 34 Gospel: Matthew 5: 43-48   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Read OnlineJesus said to his disciples: “Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father.” Matthew 6:1Authenticity draws others in. A person who lives with genuine humility and virtue naturally inspires trust. In contrast, hypocrisy—an outward display of righteousness without interior virtue, done for human approval rather than for God—breeds distrust and repels others. In today's Gospel, Jesus calls His disciples not to seek human recognition, but the quiet approval of the Father. True holiness is not performed for others to see but lived in the hidden presence of God, who sees and rewards what is done in secret.In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus highlights three essential religious practices—almsgiving, prayer, and fasting—to contrast authentic righteousness with hypocrisy. The “hypocrites” He addresses—the scribes, Pharisees, and other religious leaders—had transformed these sacred acts into performances, prioritizing human recognition over devotion to God.When the hypocrites gave alms, they would “blow a trumpet” before them, symbolically announcing their generosity. While it is unlikely that the Pharisees literally sounded a trumpet when giving alms, Jesus uses this metaphor to expose their interior disposition—one focused on self-glorification rather than genuine charity. Just as a herald's trumpet blast announces an important decree, these leaders ensured their charitable acts drew maximum attention.In contrast, Jesus teaches the proper way to give alms: “But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you” (Matthew 6:3–4). Jesus employs exaggerated language to drive home His point. The phrase “do not let your left hand know what your right is doing” is a striking metaphor for absolute humility in charity. Almsgiving should be done with such purity of heart that it seeks neither public recognition nor bolsters personal pride, but is done solely for the glory of God.Similarly, when the hypocrites prayed, they loved to position themselves “in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them.” Their concern was not communion with God but public recognition. Such a display is more an act of self-exhibition than true prayer. In contrast, Jesus teaches that authentic prayer takes place in “your inner room” where one prays to the Father in secret. This metaphor underscores the true purpose of prayer: not to be seen by others but to enter into genuine, intimate communion with God (cf. Matthew 6:5–6).Finally, Jesus points out that when hypocrites fast, they deliberately “look gloomy” and “neglect their appearance” to ensure that others take notice. Their fasting is not a sacrifice to God but a display for human admiration. In contrast, true fasting should be hidden, undertaken in a spirit of self-denial—not to impress others, but to curb disordered appetites and offer a humble sacrifice to the Father.Jesus emphasizes that the hypocrites' approach to these three practices produces only fleeting rewards: “Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.” Their “reward” is hollow and passing—the admiration of others impressed by their outward display—and bears no merit before God. Only humble and authentic almsgiving, prayer, and fasting bear eternal fruit, drawing us deeper into God's grace and securing a reward that endures in His Kingdom.Reflect today on the authenticity of your spiritual practices. Are you content with God alone seeing your good deeds? While we ought not hide our devotion out of fear or embarrassment, we must ensure our motives remain pure—seeking only God's glory and others' good. Strive to be humble, authentic, and sincere in all you do, and your Father will see your goodness and bless you with His eternal rewards. Most glorious Lord, You alone are worthy of all glory, honor, and praise. I am but Your humble servant, blessed to share in Your life and mission. Purify my intentions and grant me the grace to act always with sincerity and pure devotion. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Sermon on the Mount By Ivan MakarovSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 16, 2026. The readings are from 1 Kings 21:17-29, Psalm 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 11 and 16, Matthew 5:43-48 (Tuesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time). Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

Listen to Fr. Steve's homily from 6/16/26.Thanks for listening! Please leave us a rating and/or review, and share on social media or with a friend! You can email ashley@rootedinthereallyreal.com with any questions or suggestions. God bless.

Listen to Fr. Steve's homily from 6/15/26.Thanks for listening! Please leave us a rating and/or review, and share on social media or with a friend! You can email ashley@rootedinthereallyreal.com with any questions or suggestions. God bless.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Scott Hahn. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: First Kings 21: 1-16 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 5: 2-3ab, 4b-6, 7 Alleluia: Psalms 119: 105 Gospel: Matthew 5: 38-42   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com

Jesus said to his disciples: “You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father… So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 5:43–45, 48The Law of Moses, contained in the first five books of the Old Testament, taught the importance of loving one's neighbor: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD” (Leviticus 19:18). “Neighbor” in this context primarily referred to fellow Israelites, reinforcing the bonds of charity and unity among God's chosen people. However, the Law also commanded kindness toward foreigners: “When a stranger resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress him. He shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself” (Leviticus 19:33–34). God's command to love was never meant to be limited to Israel alone.As centuries passed, some teachers of the Law began to distort its meaning. Jesus identifies one such misinterpretation in today's Gospel: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'” While the command to love one's neighbor was indeed found in the Torah, the phrase “hate your enemy” was not. Rather, it was a human distortion that had taken root in certain circles. Some Jewish sects, like the Essenes, promoted separation from outsiders, even calling them “sons of darkness” (1QS 1:10). While the Pharisees weren't as extreme, they often limited love to their own religious and ethnic communities.Jesus corrects this error by revealing the fullness of divine love: “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Perfect charity is a high calling. It is not selective but reflects the boundless love of God, who “makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust” (Matthew 5:45). Christ calls His followers to move beyond natural human affection to a supernatural charity that embraces even those who persecute us. This love is not merely a feeling but an act of the will, a participation in the very perfection of God: “So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.”It's important, however, to distinguish between the charity that we offer everyone unconditionally and the bonds of unity forged by love that is reciprocal. When charity is offered to those who persecute us, it might feel uncomfortable at first. This form of love, though painful and challenging, has great transformative power. It extends an invitation to the persecutor to turn away from cruelty, repent, and offer love in return.Love of neighbor takes on a deeper dimension when our neighbor also loves God and reciprocates that love to us. This mutual love is not only naturally consoling but also supernaturally unifying, strengthening both individuals as they grow in holiness together.Jesus Himself demonstrated the radical nature of the love He commanded on the Cross when He prayed for His persecutors: “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). To love as God loves is to transcend worldly divisions and become true children of the Father, offering love to everyone, no matter how they treat us. Though this perfection is difficult to attain, we must never tire of striving for that ideal in our daily lives. Reflect today on those whom you love. Begin by savoring the consolation and strength you receive from relationships that are mutually reflective of God's perfect love. Then turn to those who are difficult to love. Resolve to love them and pray for them. Ask God to purify your heart of any hurt or resentment, and strive to reflect the Father's love. Let His compassion flow through you, like the rain that falls on both the just and the unjust, making you a true child of your Father in Heaven. God of all perfection, Your love knows no bounds; it is freely offered to all, both the good and the bad alike. Those who receive and reciprocate Your divine love are drawn into communion with You, sharing in Your very life, while those who reject it remain trapped in the darkness of sin. Please free me from all bitterness and resentment, purify my heart, and teach me to love as You love, so that I may truly be Your beloved child. Jesus, I trust in You.  Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 15, 2026. The readings are from 1 Kings 21:1-16, Psalm 5:2-3ab, 4b-6a, 6b-7, Matthew 5:38-42 (Monday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time). Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

Read OnlineJesus said to his disciples: “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil… Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles.” Matthew 5:38–39, 41The phrase “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” refers to the Mosaic Law of Retaliation (cf. Exodus 21:23–25). When Moses instituted this law, vengeance often escalated in response to an injury, leading to cycles of increasing violence. The law served as a form of natural justice, ensuring that retribution was proportional to the offense, preventing conflicts from spiraling out of control.Though the purpose of the Law of Retaliation was to curb excessive vengeance and restore order, Jesus revealed that true reconciliation is achieved only through radical mercy. He taught that unlimited mercy is a far greater remedy for discord, breaking the cycle of retaliation at its root. Before His coming and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, humanity lacked the grace necessary to live out this higher calling. However, in Christ, His followers were empowered by divine grace to overcome cycles of vengeance—not with retribution, but with mercy.To illustrate this higher form of reconciliation, Jesus references a Roman law that allowed soldiers to compel Jews to carry their military equipment for one Roman mile—approximately 4,855 feet, slightly shorter than the modern mile. This law was a source of humiliation for Jews, who were often forced to drop what they were doing to serve their oppressors. They had little recourse against this injustice, making it a painful reminder of their subjugation.Jesus does not justify this injustice; rather, He transforms it by calling His followers to freely exceed the demands of the law. Instead of begrudgingly fulfilling the imposed burden, they were to willingly double it—going two miles instead of one. This radical response would have astonished the Roman soldiers, turning an act of forced servitude into an unexpected display of generosity.The wisdom in this command lies in the freedom it offers. Carrying another's burden was not inherently evil; the pain came not from the injustice but from the humiliation. By embracing the burden voluntarily—walking the second mile willingly—Jesus' followers would rise above the sting of pride and resentment. Instead of being victims, they became witnesses to God's unmerited mercy, showing that true strength lies not in retaliation, but in generosity.The principle behind this elevated teaching on justice has countless applications in our lives. Whenever we experience injustice or unfair treatment, we face a choice: We can insist on strict natural justice, or we can choose supernatural charity. Those who cling to mere justice often find themselves trapped in cycles of outrage, condemnation, and resentment. But those who choose to lavish unmerited charity upon others—freely forgiving offenses and going beyond what is required—discover a profound interior freedom.Charity does not contradict natural reason; rather, it surpasses and elevates it, transforming mere human justice into something divine. To understand and live this truth, we need the Gift of Wisdom, which enables us to see life from God's perspective rather than our own limited view. This divine wisdom allows us to respond not as the world expects, but as Christ commands—breaking the cycle of retaliation with the transformative power of mercy.Reflect today on the ways you have been wronged. At times, the pain of injustice is real and the offense against us undeniable. Yet the true question is not whether we have been mistreated, but how we will respond. Jesus calls us to rise above our wounded pride and respond with acts of kindness and unmerited generosity. By embracing this higher way, we break free from the bondage of resentment and enter into the freedom of divine Wisdom.Most generous God, Your mercy far surpasses the strict justice I often seek. Grant me the Gift of Wisdom, so that I may grasp the infinite value of mercy and extend it freely in the face of every injustice I endure. Help me to trust not in my own sense of fairness, but in Your divine will, which brings true justice through love. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Sermon on the mount windows at Herzogenbuchsee Reformed church near Berne. Picture by Eugène Burnand 1910, glass by Emil Gerster of Basel 1911Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Friends of the Rosary,Today, Saturday, June 13, the day after the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we celebrate the Memorial of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.The Immaculate Heart of Mary reminds us of purity, love, and devotion. It symbolizes Mary's unwavering faith, compassion, and deep connection to God's will.Her heart, untouched by sin, is a model of holiness for all.Through her heart, we find a perfect reflection of God's mercy and grace, guiding us toward a deeper relationship. We seek Mary's intercession to live with love and humility and grow closer to Christ Our Savior.The feast was established in 1944, in the midst of World War II, by Pope Pius XII, who consecrated the world and placed it under the special protection of the Virgin Mary.Pius XII's Decree of May 4, 1944. asked her intercession to obtain "peace among nations, freedom for the Church, the conversion of sinners, the love of purity and the practice of virtue."But the devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary wasn't new.Christians were early attracted by the love and virtues of the Heart of Mary.Simeon's prophecy that Mary's heart would be pierced with a sword paved the way for this devotion. Moreover, Mary was not passive at the foot of the Cross; "she cooperated through charity," as St. Augustine says, "in the work of our redemption."The meditations on the Ave Maria and the Salve Regina date back to the Eleventh century.In the seventeenth century, St. John Eudes preached it together with that of the Sacred Heart.In 1830, during the revelation of the "miraculous medal," the Virgin Mary showed to Catherine Laboure the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the Sacred Heart of Jesus united.In the nineteenth century, Pius VII and Pius IX allowed several churches to celebrate a feast of the Pure Heart of Mary.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• ⁠June 13, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET