Podcasts about gospel matthew

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, year A  Aug. 30, 2026 Gospel Matthew 16:21-27 Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer greatly from the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.  Then Peter took Jesus aside and began to rebuke him, "God forbid, Lord! No such thing shall ever happen to you."  He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me.  You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do." Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.  For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?  Or what can one give in exchange for his life?  For the Son of Man will come with his angels in his Father's glory, and then he will repay all according to his conduct."

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, year A  Aug. 30, 2026 Gospel Matthew 16:21-27 Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer greatly from the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised.  Then Peter took Jesus aside and began to rebuke him, "God forbid, Lord! No such thing shall ever happen to you."  He turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me.  You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do." Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.  For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?  Or what can one give in exchange for his life?  For the Son of Man will come with his angels in his Father's glory, and then he will repay all according to his conduct."

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 148, 149, 150, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Job 11:1-9, 13-20, Mtr. Nancy Suellau, First Canticle: 16, New Testament: Revelation 5:1-14, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Second Canticle: 21, Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 114, 115, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: Job 11:1-9, 13-20, Mtr. Nancy Suellau, First Canticle: 15, New Testament: Revelation 5:1-14, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Second Canticle: 17, Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

Friends of the Rosary,Today, the memorial day of Saint Louis of France and Saint Joseph Calasanz, priest, we see in the Gospel (Matthew 23:23–26) how Jesus forcefully calls the Pharisees—and us—to change their hearts and behavior, and not to be trapped by the ego and its narrow concerns.When the Lord says, “Reform your life,” he means to move from that old mind and make him the center of your life.Also today, in his letter to the Thessalonians (2:1–3a, 14–17), Saint Paul says not to be shaken by rumors, fear, or confusion, but to “stand firm” in the faith. In the Gospel, Jesus warns against looking religious on the outside while neglecting mercy.Today's lesson is that God wants a clean heart, not just clean appearances. Faith is not panic, performance while missing love. It is standing firm in truth and letting mercy shape, avoiding distraction or fear.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• August 25, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

In this episode, we ask why Peter responds to Jesus' promise of suffering and death with, “God forbid it, Lord!” We discover that the cross isn't something we choose, want, or accomplish—it's something Christ does for us when our will is at odds with his. Following Jesus isn't an instruction manual for becoming a better person; it's the promise that through suffering, death, and resurrection, Christ will give us life.GOSPEL Matthew 16:21-28 21 From that time on, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and undergo great suffering at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. 22 And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “God forbid it, Lord! This must never happen to you.” 23 But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; for you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.”24 Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. 26 For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life? 27 “For the Son of Man is to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay everyone for what has been done. 28 Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”CARE OF SOULS: DEATHIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those facing death, grief, and loss.Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.Across five episodes, the hosts tackle tough but essential questions on death:How does Lutheran theology speak uniquely to death and grief?What does faithful pastoral care look like when walking alongside those who mourn?How can pastors offer both honesty and hope in the face of tragedy and loss?What does ministry look like when death impacts the pastor as well as the congregation?Why do funerals matter, and what is God giving through them?With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the sorrow of death not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about avoiding death—it's about hearing the Gospel from the One who has passed through death and opened the way to life.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of SoulsSupport the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate

What does Jesus mean when he says, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven”? In this episode, we explore why the church isn't ultimately built on Peter, a pastor, a denomination, or any other person, but on the proclamation that Jesus is the Messiah and that his forgiveness defeats sin, death, and the devil. The keys bind what binds us and loose us with Christ's promise: you are a sinner, but your sin is not the final word over you.GOSPEL Matthew 16:13-20 13 Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" 14 And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." 15 He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" 16 Simon Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." 17 And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. 18 And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." 20 Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah. CARE OF SOULS: DEATHIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those facing death, grief, and loss.Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.Across five episodes, the hosts tackle tough but essential questions on death:How does Lutheran theology speak uniquely to death and grief?What does faithful pastoral care look like when walking alongside those who mourn?How can pastors offer both honesty and hope in the face of tragedy and loss?What does ministry look like when death impacts the pastor as well as the congregation?Why do funerals matter, and what is God giving through them?With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the sorrow of death not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about avoiding death—it's about hearing the Gospel from the One who has passed through death and opened the way to life.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of SoulsSupport the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate

Monday of the 20th Week in Ordinary Time Saint of the Day: St. Clare of Montefalco, 1268-1308; born in Montefalco, Italy; as a young woman, she joined a convent of Franciscan tertiaries; her sister Joan was the abbess, and when she died, Clare succeeded her; she led an austere life, devoted to the Passion of Christ, and His Cross; when she died, an image of the cross was found imprinted on her heart, and her body remained incorrupt Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/17/26 Gospel: Matthew 19:16-22

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/16/26 Gospel: Matthew 15:21-28

Friday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. Maximilian Mary Kolbe, 1894-1941; he was ordained at the age of 24; in 1917, he formed an association called the Militia Immaculata, which started producing faith periodicals; it grew into a publishing house of 650 friars; in 1941, St. Maximilian was arrested and placed in a Nazi death camp; shortly after, he died at Auschwitz, from a lethal injection, when he bartered his own life for a man’s who had a family Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/14/26 Gospel: Matthew 19:3-12

Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Optional Memorial of Saints Pontian and Hippolytus; Pontian was Bishop of Rome from 230 – 236 A.D.; St. Hippolytus, a prominent theologian, was a theological opponent and rival of several of Pontian’s predecessors and of Pontian himself; when Maximinus I became emperor in 235, . he banished both men to the island of Sardinia; St. Hippolytus reconciled with Rome, and both men suffered inhumane treatment and death in the mines of Sardinia and they are celebrated together as holy martyrs in the Church Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/13/26 Gospel: Matthew 18:21-19:1

Wednesday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Optional Memorial of St. Jane Frances de Chantal, 1572-1641; when she became a widow, she took a vow of chastity, and in 1604 began seeking spiritual direction from St. Francis de Sales; in 1610, they formed the Congregation of the Visitation, unique in that it admitted women deemed physically unsuitable by other orders; the members went outside their convents to serve the needy; by the time Jane was canonized, there were 164 communities of the order Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/12/26 Gospel: Matthew 18:15-20

Tuesday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. Clare, 1194-1253; Clare heard Saint Francis of Assisi preach and it ignited in her a desire to follow Christ in a similar way; Saint Francis took Saint Clare to San Paolo and placed her in the care of Benedictine nuns; her sister joined her in holy vows within a month; Saint Francis established a community for them, and other women, at San Damiano and the Second Order of Saint Francis was born; later called the Poor Clares; as abbess, Saint Clare nurtured women in Christ and sent daughters planting convents all throughout Europe. Saint Clare was canonized two years after her death Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/11/26 Gospel: Matthew 18:1-5, 10, 12-14

Worship from Queen Anne Lutheran Church from August 9, 2026, our 10 AM service with Pastor Dan Peterson and Cantor Kyle Haugen.Prelude—Liturgical selections; Pop-Up Choir • Introit—Psalm 34:1, 4 • Gathering Hymn—What Is This Place? (ELW 524) • First Reading—1 Kings 19:9-18 • Second Reading—Romans 10:5-15  • Gospel—Matthew 14:22-33   • Sermon—Pastor Dan Peterson "The 'I' of the Storm" • Hymn of the Day—Precious Lord, Take My Hand (ELW 773) • Distribution Hymn—Calm to the Waves (ELW 794) • Sending Hymn —What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine ( ELW 774) • Postlude—Leaning on the Everlasting Arms;  Marianne Kim (b. 1972)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link here to view the bulletin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying our worship recordings?⁠⁠Go here to make a donation to our church

In this episode, we explore one of Jesus' most memorable encounters: a Canaanite woman who comes to him as an outsider, crosses every boundary, and simply pleads, “Have mercy on me.” As Jesus appears to reject her, she refuses to argue for her worthiness and instead holds him to the promise that his mercy is for sinners—even dogs like her who have nothing to offer but their need. Her “great faith” isn't her persistence or ability to convince Jesus; it's the faith that receives his mercy as a gift and trusts that God's kingdom is not about being treated fairly, but about Christ having mercy on the unworthy.GOSPEL Matthew 15:21-2821 Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. 22 Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, "Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon." 23 But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, "Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us." 24 He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." 25 But she came and knelt before him, saying, "Lord, help me." 26 He answered, "It is not fair to take the children's food and throw it to the dogs." 27 She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." 28 Then Jesus answered her, "Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish." And her daughter was healed instantly.CARE OF SOULS: DEATHIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those facing death, grief, and loss.Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.Across five episodes, the hosts tackle tough but essential questions on death:How does Lutheran theology speak uniquely to death and grief?What does faithful pastoral care look like when walking alongside those who mourn?How can pastors offer both honesty and hope in the face of tragedy and loss?What does ministry look like when death impacts the pastor as well as the congregation?Why do funerals matter, and what is God giving through them?With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the sorrow of death not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about avoiding death—it's about hearing the Gospel from the One who has passed through death and opened the way to life.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of SoulsSupport the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate

Father Thomas Naval proclaims the Gospel (Matthew 14:22-33) and breaks open the word. Words for your Way from Santiago de Compostela Catholic Church in Lake Forest, California.

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/9/26 Gospel: Matthew 14:22-33

Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost, August 9, 2026 Romans 8:28-39 Pastor Nate Kassulke Download Our Worship Series: What Makes Christians Different. Today's Theme: Christians Answer Doubt With Faith. First Reading: 1 Kings 19:9-18.Second Reading: Romans 8:28-39.Gospel: Matthew 14:22-33Sermon Text: Romans 8:28-39. God is For UsPastor Nate Kassulke

Gospel: Matthew 14:22-33. Sermon by Rev Lori Walton. The post Sermon for August 9 2026 appeared first on St. James' Episcopal Church Fremont California.

Saturday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. Dominic, 1170-1221; Dominic studied arts and theology at the University of Palencia; he was appointed a canon regular of the Cathedral of Osma, ordained, and made prior in 1201; in diplomatic service to his bishop, he traveled across the Pyrenees to southern France several times, and encountered heretical communities, specifically, the Albigensians; Dominic and others attempted to bring the heretics back to the Catholic faith; he organized his followers, and the Order of Preachers--the Dominicans--grew to be a large family of friars, nuns, and third order laity Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/8/26 Gospel: Matthew 17:14-20

Friday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Optional Memorial of Pope St. Sixtus II and companions, martyrs; Sixtus II was elected Supreme Pontiff in 257 AD.; in his reign, he mediated between Rome and the Asiatic and African churches over re-baptizing heretics; also, during this time, Emperor Valerian issued a decree persecuting Christians and forbidding them to assemble;Saint Sixtus II held to the Faith and, with a group of 6 deacons, was martyred during a gathering honoring the Lord in 258 A.D. Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/7/26 Gospel: Matthew 16:24-28

Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/6/26 Gospel: Matthew 17:1-9

Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Optional Memorial of the Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/5/26 Gospel: Matthew 15:21-28

Friends of the Rosary,In today's Gospel (Matthew 15:1-2, 10-14), Jesus warns that religious habits are not enough if the heart is far from God. The Pharisees focus on external tradition, but Jesus points deeper: what comes out of a person reveals what is inside.Also, today, August 4, we honor Saint John Vianney (1786-1859), also known as the Curé of Ars. Born in France in 1786, during the French Revolution, he was sent as a parish priest to Ars, a small village that was spiritually lukewarm. Here he spent forty-two years of his life, devoting himself to prayer, mortification, and pastoral works.His success in directing souls made him known throughout the Christian world. Men of all ranks and conditions of life sought his guidance and advice.He would spend many hours each day in the confessional, sometimes 12 to 16 hours, helping people return to God.His holiness was pastoral and merciful. His message was simple: go to confession, pray seriously, love the Eucharist, and do not be afraid to let God heal what is broken.St. John Baptist Mary Vianney was beatified by Pope St. Pius X, himself once a parish priest, and canonized by Pope Pius XI.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• ⁠August 4, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Tuesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. John Vianney, the curé d'Ars, 1786-1859; at age 20, he began secondary education; studies progressed slowly, but he was ordained a decade later; he opened an orphanage and began to minister in the local parish in the aftermath of the Revolution; he was appointed curé, minister of souls, and was known to spend up to 18 hours a day in the confessional; over time, his methods rippled internationally, as up to tens of thousands of pilgrims traveled annually to seek his counsel Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/4/26 Gospel: Matthew 5:1-2, 10-14

Worship from Queen Anne Lutheran Church from August 2, 2026, our 10 AM service with Pastor Dan Peterson and Cantor Kyle Haugen.Prelude • Introit—Psalm 105:1, 40b, 41a • Gathering Hymn—All Who Hunger, Gather Gladly (ELW 461) • First Reading—Isaiah 55:1-5 • Second Reading— Romans 9:1-5  • Gospel—Matthew 14:13-21   • Sermon—Pastor Dan Peterson • Hymn of the Day—Thine the Amen (ELW 826) • Distribution Hymn—Let Us Break Bread Together (ELW 471) • Sending Hymn —Go, My Children, with My Blessing ( ELW 543) • Postlude⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link here to view the bulletin⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enjoying our worship recordings?⁠Go here to make a donation to our church

In this episode, we ask a difficult question: Why would Jesus send his disciples straight into a storm he knew was coming? As the wind drives them farther from shore and fear overtakes them, we discover that the real battle isn't against the waves—it's against the doubt that God's promise could fail. Peter's cry, "Lord, save me," becomes our own, as Christ shows that faith doesn't come from our courage, but from hearing his Word: "Take heart. It is I. Do not be afraid."GOSPEL Matthew 14:22-33 22 Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. 23 And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, 24 but by this time the boat, battered by the waves, was far from the land, for the wind was against them. 25 And early in the morning he came walking toward them on the sea. 26 But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out in fear. 27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them and said, "Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid." 28 Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." 29 He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat, started walking on the water, and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" 31 Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" 32 When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, "Truly you are the Son of God."CARE OF SOULS: DEATHIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those facing death, grief, and loss.Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.Across five episodes, the hosts tackle tough but essential questions on death:How does Lutheran theology speak uniquely to death and grief?What does faithful pastoral care look like when walking alongside those who mourn?How can pastors offer both honesty and hope in the face of tragedy and loss?What does ministry look like when death impacts the pastor as well as the congregation?Why do funerals matter, and what is God giving through them?With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the sorrow of death not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about avoiding death—it's about hearing the Gospel from the One who has passed through death and opened the way to life.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of SoulsSupport the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate

Monday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Saint of the Day: St. Peter of Anagni; 12th Century Benedictine, bishop and papal legate; he so distinguished himself as a Benedictine monk that Pope St. Gregory VII appointed him bishop of Anagni; he improved the spiritual welfare of the city, built a new cathedral, and promoted the First Crusade to the Holy Land, a venture in which he participated; Pope Urban II sent him to Constantinople as papal legate to the Byzantine Empire; he died in 1105 Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/3/26 Gospel: Matthew 14:22-36

Father Thomas Naval proclaims the Gospel (Matthew 14:13-21) and breaks open the word. Words for your Way from Santiago de Compostela Catholic Church in Lake Forest, California.

Friends of the Rosary,Today's Sunday readings speak about God feeding His people. In the first reading (Isaiah 55:1-3), God invites everyone who is thirsty and hungry to come to Him. He offers what truly satisfies, not just food for the body, but for the soul. Many things promise to fill us, but only God can give peace that lasts.Saint Paul also gives a beautiful reminder (Romans 8:35, 37-39): nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Not suffering, weakness, fear, or hardship. God's love is stronger than all of it.The Gospel (Matthew 14:13-21) shows Jesus feeding the five thousand. The disciples see the crowd and think only of the problem: too many people, too little food. Five loaves and two fish look small, but in the hands of the Lord they become enough.Our faith may feel small. Our patience may feel small. Our strength may feel small. But when we place it in Jesus' hands, He can multiply it.We bring Jesus what we have, even if it is small. He asks us to offer what we can, and let Him provide what is missing.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• ⁠August 2, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

18th Sunday in Ordinary Time Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/2/26 Gospel: Matthew 14:13-21

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 75, 76, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 5:19-31, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 12, New Testament: Acts 2:21-36, Andrew Armond, Second Canticle: 19, Gospel: Matthew 28:11-20, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 5:19-31, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 9, New Testament: Acts 2:21-36, Andrew Armond, Second Canticle: 15, Gospel: Matthew 28:11-20, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

Saturday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. Alphonsus Liguori, 1696-1787; founder of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer--the Redemptorists--focused on serving adults on the fringes of society; he was consecrated Bishop of Santa Agata dei Goti and spent much of his time devoted to writing Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/1/26 Gospel: Matthew 14:1-12

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 75, 76, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 5:19-31, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 12, Second Canticle: 19, Gospel: Matthew 28:11-20, Mtr. Lisa Meirow

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 69, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 5:1-18, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 10, New Testament: Acts 2:1-21, Andrew Armond, Second Canticle: 18, Gospel: Matthew 28:1-10, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 73, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 5:1-18, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 13, New Testament: Acts 2:1-21, Andrew Armond, Second Canticle: 17, Gospel: Matthew 28:1-10, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

Friends of the Rosary,Today, July 31st, we honor Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556) as the saint of the day, a Spanish Basque soldier, mystic, and priest who founded the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) and wrote The Spiritual Exercises.In the year 1521, at the siege of Pampeluna, a cannonball fractured the left leg of Captain Ignatius Loyola, the future founder of the Jesuits. While he was convalescing, Ignatius read about Christ and His saints and thus turned wholly to God. He went to Montserrat, and hung up his arms before the altar of the Blessed Virgin, entering upon his knighthood in the army of Christ. He then equipped himself for Christ's service by acquiring a good classical and theological education.God favored and refreshed him with such wonderful spiritual lights. He patiently endured sufferings and insults in every place, undergoing the hardest trials, even imprisonment and beatings almost to death. But he ever desired to suffer far more for the glory of his Lord.At Paris he was joined by nine companions from that University, men of different nations, who had taken their degrees in Arts and Theology; and there at Montmartre he laid the first foundations of the order. Among them, St. Francis Xavier was sent to preach the Gospel in the Indies. He dispersed others of his children to spread the Christian faith in other parts of the world, thus declaring war against paganism, superstition, and heresy.God raised up Ignatius and the Society of Jesus to oppose Luther and the heretics of his time, as formerly he had raised up other holy men to oppose other heretics.The members of the Society of Jesus became the shock troops of the Church in the battle against the spread of Protestantism in Europe, as well as one of the greatest foreign mission organizations that the world has known.Ignatius everywhere opened schools for the education of youth in piety and letters. St. Philip Neri and others saw his countenance shining with heavenly light. And his power over the demons was wonderful.Ignatius died on July 31, 1556, at the age of sixty-five.Since then, St. Ignatius is celebrated for miracles and for his great services to the Church.In today's Gospel (Matthew 13:54-58), Jesus returns to His native place, and the people are astonished by His wisdom. But instead of receiving Him, they reduce Him to what they already know: “Is he not the carpenter's son?” Familiarity closes their hearts. They cannot accept that God is working through someone so close, so ordinary, so known to them.That is a warning for us. God may speak through ordinary people, ordinary duties, ordinary prayers, and ordinary moments. If we only expect God in dramatic signs, we may miss Him when He comes quietly.Saint Ignatius of Loyola fits beautifully with today's message. His life was reshaped by God after injury, ambition, and conversion. He learned to discern God's voice, to seek God's will, and to find God in all things.Let's listen when God corrects us. Do not reject truth because it is uncomfortable or because it comes through someone familiar. Ask for a humble heart that can recognize God's voice and follow His will.Like Saint Ignatius, help us seek Divine Will in all things and follow the Lord with courage.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• ⁠July 31, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Friday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. Ignatius of Loyola, 1491-1556; became a knight in his teens, but a leg wound left him convalescing for months; during that time, he read scripture and saintly works, ultimately leading to his conversion; he was ordained in 1537; in 1539, he founded the Society of Jesus, focusing on a vow of obedience to the pope, strong spiritual formation, foreign missions, and education of youth regardless of class Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 7/31/26 Gospel: Matthew 13:54-58

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 70, 71, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 4:4-23, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 8, New Testament: Acts 1:15-26, Andrew Armond, Second Canticle: 20, Gospel: Matthew 27:55-66, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 74, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 4:4-23, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 11, New Testament: Acts 1:15-26, Andrew Armond, Second Canticle: 15, Gospel: Matthew 27:55-66, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

Friends of the Rosary,In today's Gospel (Matthew 13:47-53), Jesus speaks of the Kingdom like a net gathering all kinds of fish. At the end, there is a separation between what is good and what is bad.Jesus said to the disciples:“The Kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea,which collects fish of every kind.When it is full they haul it ashoreand sit down to put what is good into buckets.What is bad they throw away.Thus it will be at the end of the age.The angels will go out and separate the wicked from the righteousand throw them into the fiery furnace,where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.”This parable is not meant only to frighten us, but to wake us up. Our choices matter, as the way we live today is preparing us for eternity.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 30, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Preparing the Heart to Receive God's Word The Homily reflects on Jesus' explanation of the Parable of the Sower, . . . . . . drawing attention to the different places where the seed falls: the path, rocky ground, thorns, and fertile soil. While a careful farmer would sow only on good soil, God generously scatters His grace upon everyone without discrimination. This reveals God's boundless love and mercy, inviting believers to imitate His generosity rather than being selective in whom they love or serve. The preacher emphasizes that hearing God's Word is not enough; it must be understood, welcomed with humility, and allowed to take deep root. Echoing the words of St. Jerome, “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ,” he encourages continual engagement with Scripture, reminding listeners that God's Word is “living and active,” always revealing new insights regardless of how many times it has been heard. The Homily further explains that shallow enthusiasm cannot sustain faith when trials arise, nor can faith flourish when worldly anxieties and the pursuit of riches choke God's Word. Lasting spiritual growth requires prayer, participation in the faith community, devotion to the Rosary, Eucharistic Adoration, and perseverance through suffering. Those who cultivate fertile hearts bear the fruits of patience, trust, and love. The preacher concludes by presenting St. Charbel as a model disciple whose humility, deep prayer life, and profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary enabled him to receive God's Word, nurture it faithfully, and bear abundant spiritual fruit. We are likewise called not merely to hear the Gospel but to live it so that their lives become a witness to Christ. Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to: Preparing the Heart to Receive God's Word ------------------------------------------------------------------ Art Work Parable of the Sower: Dutch Painter: Pieter Bruegel the Elder:  1557 A Sower went out to sow. The painting depicts a farmer scattering seed across a field. On the left, thorny bushes threaten to overtake the grain. Nearby, rocky ground offers quick growth but little endurance. To the right, further down the hill, the seed falls on fertile soil. Across the river, a crowd gathers to hear the teachings of Jesus. The painting was inspired by a trip to the mountains the artist took just before creating this piece. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Gospel: Matthew 13:18-23 First Reading: Jeremiah 3:14-17

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 72, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 3:12-30, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 11, New Testament: Acts 1:1-14, Andrew Armond, Second Canticle: 16, Gospel: Matthew 27:45-54, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 119:73-96, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 3:12-30, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 12, New Testament: Acts 1:1-14, Andrew Armond, Second Canticle: 17, Gospel: Matthew 27:45-54, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 61, 62, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 2:1-5, 11-23, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 13, New Testament: Romans 16:17-27, Laura Di Panfilo, Second Canticle: 18, Gospel: Matthew 27:32-44, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 68, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Judges 2:1-5, 11-23, Laura Ammons, First Canticle: 10, New Testament: Romans 16:17-27, Laura Di Panfilo, Second Canticle: 15, Gospel: Matthew 27:32-44, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 56, 57, 58, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Joshua 24:16-33, James Foster, First Canticle: 9, New Testament: Romans 16:1-6, Laura Di Panfilo, Second Canticle: 19, Gospel: Matthew 27:24-31, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.

Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 64, 65, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: Joshua 24:16-33, James Foster, First Canticle: 8, New Testament: Romans 16:1-6, Laura Di Panfilo, Second Canticle: 17, Gospel: Matthew 27:24-31, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.

In this episode, we ask what happens when your needs exceed your resources. As Jesus feeds the five thousand, the disciples reach the end of what they can provide, but Christ refuses to let their limitations set the agenda, revealing instead a kingdom defined by his compassion and abundant provision. The miracle isn't simply that bread multiplies—it's that Jesus gives exactly what his people need, reminding us that God's blessings are received with thanksgiving, not controlled by our demands.GOSPEL Matthew 14:13-2113 Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. 14 When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick. 15 When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, "This is a deserted place, and the hour is now late; send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves." 16 Jesus said to them, "They need not go away; you give them something to eat." 17 They replied, "We have nothing here but five loaves and two fish." 18 And he said, "Bring them here to me." 19 Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. 20 And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. 21 And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.CARE OF SOULS: DEATHIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those facing death, grief, and loss.Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.Across five episodes, the hosts tackle tough but essential questions on death:How does Lutheran theology speak uniquely to death and grief?What does faithful pastoral care look like when walking alongside those who mourn?How can pastors offer both honesty and hope in the face of tragedy and loss?What does ministry look like when death impacts the pastor as well as the congregation?Why do funerals matter, and what is God giving through them?With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the sorrow of death not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about avoiding death—it's about hearing the Gospel from the One who has passed through death and opened the way to life.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of SoulsSupport the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate