Podcasts about sacraments

Send a textThis Catholic Lent reflection shares a powerful true story of a condemned prisoner who faced the Devil on the night before his execution. In this 1700s Catholic account, Satan demands that he renounce Jesus Christ, the Sacraments, and the Virgin Mary — in exchange for his life.Support the showSupport this show and get all future episodes by email atwww.kenandjanelle.com

Mother delves into the joy of getting to give something up for Lent and accompany our Lord on his forty days in the wilderness. Mother answers questions about why the church uses such ornate buildings and vestments, individuals with special needs receiving the Sacraments, the morality of investing in the stock market, and what could happen to money saved for your future if you enter religious life.

----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for February 17, 2026 reflects on Psalm 45:13–15 and the radiant image of the Bride being led to the King. This Christ-centered Lutheran devotion explores how this royal wedding scene ultimately points to Christ and His Church. The glory of the princess is not self-made beauty, but honor given by the King. So also, believers are clothed in the righteousness of Christ, adorned by grace, and prepared for eternal joy.This Christian daily devotion highlights the communal nature of faith, as the Bride is led with companions into the palace of the King. The Church walks together in hope, sustained by the Word and Sacraments, rejoicing in forgiveness and redemption. Rooted in Scripture and the theology of the cross, this meditation proclaims that our identity is secure in Christ alone.One day, we will enter fully into the joy of His eternal kingdom.Support this ministry at

-The Roman Catechism of Trent (RCT) p. 300-304. - The Sacraments, ep. 25. - Pachamama Event: https://youtu.be/6oLpwQ_kdfM?si=fF88uFHDMC1QtNGD - Red Rose Rescue Arrest: https://youtu.be/AKpHu_KtaOI - My Site: https://www.padreperegrino.org

Patrick explores Catholic traditions and beliefs, answers questions about sacraments and the priesthood, and brings up the impact of family and faith in everyday moments. He breaks down myths around devotions, then contrasts Christianity and Islam on love and joy. Conversations turn personal, rich, and even surprising. Louise – Is Fr. Greg Boyle a Jesuit Priest? Do you know anything about this author? (00:31) Richard - My wife and I decided that she would stay home with my kids. My mom was always at work and sacrificed so much. I wanted something more for my kids. (03:41) Aymun – Priests seem to be a barrier to the Sacraments. Why can’t people give the Sacraments to each other? (08:09) Audrey - What is the Flame of Love Movement? (21:35) Dale - Is there any joy in Islam? (29:06) Audio: Islam’s global goal to dominate - Islam is not here to coexist. We were sent to dominate the world, to extinguish and wipe out every other religion. We are superior to everyone else. - https://x.com/realmaalouf/status/1991556460652675215?s=46&t=m_l2itwnFvka2DG8_72nHQ (33:57) Tom – Is wearing a scapular an insurance policy? (37:28) John – Islam doesn’t take prisoners and they force everyone to take on their religion. (40:13) George – Why do Catholics who don't believe in the true presence receive the Eucharist but protestants that do believe in the true presence cannot receive? (44:34)

Read OnlineThe disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. Jesus enjoined them, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” Mark 8:14–15Jesus and the disciples frequently traveled by boat, visiting many towns and villages along the Sea of Galilee. After a fruitful visit to the Gentile territory of the Decapolis, Jesus and His disciples crossed to Dalmanutha. Upon disembarking, some Pharisees, who had likely heard of His miraculous feeding of the 4,000, demanded a sign from Him. Jesus, deeply grieved by their lack of faith, sighed from the depths of His spirit, refused their request, and departed again by boat. It was during this boat ride that today's Gospel took place.Jesus' holy sorrow over the Pharisees' hardness of heart deeply affected Him. His grief was not one of self-pity over their rejection of Him but stemmed from His divine compassion. He felt the weight of their lack of faith and their refusal to embrace the truth of God's love. It was this profound sorrow that prompted Jesus to caution His disciples, saying, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.”“Leaven,” in this context, symbolizes a hidden yet pervasive influence that governed both the Pharisees and Herod. Just as a small amount of yeast permeates an entire batch of dough, causing it to rise, so too the destructive influence of the Pharisees and Herod spread through their actions and teachings, corrupting others. With His sorrowful encounter with the Pharisees fresh in mind, Jesus used the moment to warn His disciples not to allow such corrupting influences to take root in their own hearts.The Pharisees' hidden, pervasive, and destructive quality lay in their excessive focus on external observances of the Law and the traditions derived from it. Their rigid legalism blinded them to the true meaning of God's Law—mercy and the inner disposition of the heart—leading to their own spiritual ruin and to the misleading of others.Herod's “leaven” likely refers to a worldly mindset characterized by a relentless pursuit of power, wealth, and pleasure. Herod chose the fleeting allure of worldly things over God's eternal truths. Herod's pride and destructive behavior epitomize this mindset, which ultimately led him to have John the Baptist executed for courageously speaking the truth about Herod's adulterous relationship with his brother's wife, Herodias.Jesus' admonition to His disciples on the boat is not only a condemnation of the Pharisees' and Herod's sins but a warning about the influence such pervasive sins can have on them. Likewise, just as Jesus cautioned His disciples, so too does He caution us today: “Watch out” and “guard against” the influences that do not arise from God's saving Truth. In our world, it is essential to recognize how pervasive societal ideologies and moralities can subtly shape our thoughts and actions. By remaining vigilant and rooted in Christ, we must discern and reject the leaven of worldliness, hypocrisy, and pride, allowing God's divine light to guide our lives.Reflect today on the influences that shape your life. Do you spend countless hours on social media, browsing the Internet, or watching television? If so, take a moment to consider the hidden yet pervasive effects of the content you consume and discern if it is subtly leading you astray. The only true remedy against such worldly influences is found in prayer and the Word of God. The Gospel must permeate our minds and hearts, acting as leaven to transform us from within. This divine leaven is nourished through prayer, the Sacraments, and an ongoing commitment to the Gospel. Heed Jesus' warning, spoken to His disciples but intended for every generation: Remain vigilant. Guard your heart and mind, ensuring they are firmly rooted in God's saving grace. My grieving Lord, Your heart was filled with holy sorrow over the sins of the Pharisees and Herod, especially as You witnessed the harmful influence they had on others. Please grant me the gift of spiritual insight, so that I may recognize the influences that shape my thoughts and actions. May Your Word and Your Truth alone guide me, and may I become a witness to that Truth, serving as a holy influence for others. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: James Tissot, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: 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 readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021526.cfmFresh from a visit to the Holy Land, Fr. Chris Alar, MIC reflects on standing atop the Mount of Olives, praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, walking the Via Dolorosa, and entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre—the very places where Christ taught, suffered, and redeemed us.Looking out over Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, he recalls how Jesus wept over the city. Why? Because people would not receive His teaching.The Sermon on the Mount is not a suggestion. It is a way of life. Jesus, the New Moses, does not merely interpret the law—He fulfills and perfects it. When He says to “cut off” what leads you to sin, He speaks in holy urgency. Sin has consequences. Grace is free—but it must be received and cooperated with.Father Chris tackles misunderstood teachings head-on: • Why Catholics read Scripture as literally true—but not literalist. • What Jesus' words reveal about purgatory and accountability. • Why annulment is not a “Catholic divorce,” but a declaration about sacramental validity. • Why the Sacraments are our sure path to grace and salvation.He also pleads for prayers—prayers for persecuted Christians in the Holy Land, and for his dear friend Giuseppe recovering from a stroke. When the Church teaches clearly, it is not to restrict us, but to save us.Christ wept over Jerusalem. May we not ignore His voice today. ★ Support this podcast ★

----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

In this week's Kingdom Parables series, Jesus gives us a last day picture of His kingdom through the Parable of the Wedding Feast. This is not a moral lesson about proving we belong. It's a kingdom story about what the King does for His people. The King not only invites. He provides what is needed to belong. We'll see how Jesus makes us worthy by clothing us in His righteousness through His Word and Sacraments. And we'll end with the promise of the feast that never ends, when death is swallowed up forever and tears are wiped away. Isaiah 25:6–9 Philippians 3:1–11 Matthew 22:1–14

Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for February 15, 2026 reflects on Psalm 45:8–9 and the beauty, joy, and fragrance of Christ the King. This royal psalm paints a vivid picture of fragrant robes, ivory palaces, music, and honor—but it ultimately points beyond earthly splendor to Jesus Himself. In this Christ-centered Lutheran devotion, we consider how myrrh connects Christ's birth, suffering, burial, and victory, revealing a kingdom where glory flows through the cross.This Christian daily devotion highlights the joy of forgiveness, the peace of reconciliation, and the comfort of belonging to the King who gathers His Church as His beloved bride. Rooted in Scripture and the theology of the cross, this meditation proclaims a Savior whose reign brings life, mercy, and eternal hope.Even now, Christ rules through His Word and Sacraments, filling weary hearts with lasting joy.Support this ministry at

Trying to cram some theology into 5 minutes or so. Please consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family

----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for February 14, 2026 reflects on Psalm 45:6–7, a powerful proclamation of Christ's eternal kingship. “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever” lifts our eyes beyond earthly rulers to the true and everlasting King. In this Christ-centered Lutheran devotion, we consider the righteousness, holiness, and mercy of Jesus, whose reign does not fail.This Christian daily devotion explores how Psalm 45 ultimately points to Christ, the Anointed One, whose scepter is upright and whose throne is eternal. His kingship is revealed most clearly at the cross, where He conquers sin, death, and the devil through sacrifice and grace. Rooted in Scripture and the theology of the cross, this meditation offers comfort for troubled consciences and stability in uncertain times.Christ reigns even now through His Word and Sacraments, forgiving sins and sustaining faith. His kingdom is unshakable.Support this ministry at

Read OnlineJesus left the district of Tyre and went by way of Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, into the district of the Decapolis. And people brought to him a deaf man who had a speech impediment and begged him to lay his hand on him. Mark 7:31–32Throughout Jesus' public ministry, His actions, while purely charitable, were often deliberate and provocative. His words and deeds testified to the true meaning of the Mosaic Law by exposing the damaging legalism of many Pharisees, whose misinterpretations deeply influenced God's Chosen People. For example, Jesus healed a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath (cf. Mark 3:1–6) and cured a man who had been lame for thirty-eight years (cf. John 5:1–18). In both cases, Jesus was accused of violating the Sabbath rest as interpreted by the Pharisaic traditions. By challenging these restrictive and erroneous interpretations, Jesus demonstrated that the Sabbath is a day for mercy, healing, and honoring God, not a burdensome observance of human traditions. Jesus boldly lived the Mosaic Law as it was intended, while challenging the erroneous practices and beliefs He encountered. Another act of deliberate and charitable provocation was Jesus' ministry among the Gentiles. At that time, observant Jews often avoided direct interactions with Gentiles, considering them ritually unclean and outside the covenant community of Israel. Yet Jesus traveled into Gentile regions such as Tyre, Sidon, and the Decapolis. In today's Gospel, Jesus traveled from Tyre to Sidon and then to the Decapolis, where He healed a deaf and mute man. Being predominantly Gentile regions, they were marked by pagan worship, Hellenistic culture, and lifestyles often incompatible with Jewish religious practices. It is likely that Jesus' companions—the Twelve—were surprised and uneasy during these visits, but that was precisely the point. Their journey to these territories was itself a lesson Jesus intended to teach. By engaging with Gentiles, Jesus revealed that God's salvation is not limited to Israel but extends to all nations, fulfilling the promise made to Abraham: “All the families of the earth will find blessing in you” (Genesis 12:3). In doing so, Jesus began preparing His disciples to shed nationalistic biases and embrace the universal scope of God's covenant of salvation.The healing of the deaf and mute man carries profound significance. First, by performing the miracle in predominantly Gentile territory, Jesus directed its meaning beyond the Jews to all peoples of every nation. The message is clear: By healing the man's deafness, Jesus teaches that all must hear the saving message of the Gospel. By healing his speech impediment, Jesus further teaches that all who hear the Gospel are called to proclaim it.Though the manner of this healing—putting “his finger into the man's ears and, spitting, touched his tongue”—is rich with symbolism, it also reveals Jesus' personal and compassionate approach. For a deaf and mute man, spoken words alone would not have conveyed what Jesus was about to do. By using touch and visible gestures, Jesus communicated with the man in a way he could understand, engaging him personally and tenderly. This reflects the boundless compassion of Jesus, Who meets each of us where we are.Reflect today on the lesson the Twelve learned as they traveled with Jesus through Gentile and pagan regions. As followers of Christ, we must learn not only from His words but also from His actions. The Creed, the Sacraments, and the moral teachings of the Church are not meant for Catholics alone but for all people. At times, sharing the Gospel might require charitable provocation within the social circles in which we live and work. We must strive to do so in ways that people can understand, setting aside artificial or inconsequential traditions that obstruct the message. True compassion leads us to every person, making us instruments of their salvation, knowing that the message we bring is for all, so that “all the families of the earth” may find blessing in God through you.My compassionate and provocative Lord, You confidently and lovingly challenged the burdensome and restrictive traditions that had overshadowed the true spirit of the Mosaic Law, pointing Your disciples—and us—to the universal scope of Your saving mission. Grant me the courage and wisdom to be an instrument of Your Gospel to everyone I meet. Help me to love them where they are, with the tenderness and compassion You show, so that they, too, may be drawn into the joy of Your eternal Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: unknown, (Markusmaler und Gehilfe), Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: 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.

Patrick begins with gratitude over the successful pledge drive and quickly connects with listeners, greeting seven-year-old Lillian from California and fielding her thoughtful questions on Catholic camp options and Lent’s rituals. He fields questions on confession, tradition, and even the origin of Ash Wednesday ashes, mixing humor, personal stories, and Church teaching as he moves from summer camp memories to matters of faith and practice. Genuine conversation flows, moving from a child's curiosity to lifelong Catholic concerns, as Patrick offers clear, encouraging guidance for each caller. Lilian (7-years-old) - We just started watching the Waltons. Why can't we receive the Sacraments during Lent? (01:39) Jacob (email) - How come we are not supposed to take Jesus literally when he says, “pluck your eye out”, but we do take Jesus literally when he says “this is my body” during the last supper? (09:52) Joe - What do I tell someone who is a practicing Catholic who hasn't been to confession in 5 years? (19:08) Maria - I need help with spiritual direction. How can I get a spiritual director? (25:10) Efrank - On Ash Wednesday, does it matter what type of ashes you use? (28:52) Roy - You are quoting paragraphs in the Catechism. Is the Catechism in the Bible where regular people can read it? Or is this a special book that Protestants don't know about? (31:43) Yollie - Do you think that the student walkouts are orchestrated by groups or is this an individual choice? (45:48)

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Paul Ryder, founding minister of the Congregation for Sacred Practices, about an alternative framework for psychedelic work rooted in spirituality, ritual, and community rather than medicine alone. Paul Ryder shares how his own experiences led him to treat psychedelics as sacraments, and why he believes the medical model, while valuable, represents only an early phase of the psychedelic renaissance. Together, they explore how CSP operates as both a church and a seminary, training licensed ministers to hold ceremonies ethically, safely, and within a religious legal framework. The conversation also examines the role of community in long-term transformation, the distinction between therapists and ministers, and why practices like breathwork, meditation, and integration circles are central to spiritual development. Throughout, Ryder offers a grounded perspective on how psychedelics can support not just healing, but maturation, responsibility, and a deeper sense of purpose. You can find the full episode summary and related resources here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-342/?ref=278 Episode Links The Congregation for Sacred Practices Episode Sponsors: The Practitioner Certification Program by Third Wave's Psychedelic Coaching Institute. The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.

Most men today are ruled by emotion, pleasure, and impulse. That is not freedom. That is slavery.In this episode of The Manly Catholic, Fr. Dom confronts a hard truth the modern world refuses to face: darkness has invaded the mind, and Christ came to reclaim it. Drawing from Sacred Scripture, the Catechism, and the Church's constant teaching, this episode unpacks a powerful image: Jesus Christ as water. Water always flows to the lowest place. So does Christ.He descends into the darkest places of the human soul, especially the intellect, to heal, cleanse, and restore order. From the Jordan River to Galilee, from the manger to the Cross, Christ consistently goes where others refuse to go. He does the same in your life, if you let Him.This homily challenges men to reject emotivism, hedonism, and the lie that truth is subjective. You cannot build a holy life on feelings. You must put on the mind of Christ.Fr. Dom confronts:Why “I feel” is a dangerous way to approach truthHow logos, logic, and truth are inseparable from Jesus ChristWhy disordered passions lead men into sin, division, and confusionHow the Sacraments actively form and renew the mind of Christ in usWhy Catholic education and fatherhood are battlefields for the soulThis is a direct call to Catholic men: think clearly, live ordered, defend truth, and lead your families with conviction. Christ is the Light. Stop negotiating with darkness.Powerful Quotes from the Episode“Jesus Christ is like water. He always goes to the lowest place.”“Never start theological or philosophical truth statements with ‘I feel.'”“If we don't put on the mind of Christ, we begin conforming God to our image instead of the other way around.”Key Takeaway for Men (Act on This Today)Stop letting your emotions govern your intellect.Begin today by rejecting “I feel” as your foundation for truth. Anchor your thinking in Christ through daily prayer, frequent Confession, and intentional study of Catholic teaching. Order your mind, and your life will follow.

How can your righteousness exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees when you, like them, break God's commandments every day in thought, word, and deed? How can it exceed theirs when Jesus also says, “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect”? By that standard, no one stands. Not then. Not now. Not ever. And yet Jesus looks at His disciples and says, “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.” He does not say, “Try harder to become this.” He does not give a new set of spiritual goals. He makes a declaration. These are not imperatives. They are indicatives. Not commands to obey, but statements of reality. This is who you are in Christ. On your own, you have no righteousness that can stand before God. But Jesus gives you His. You are clothed with His obedience. You are salted with the salt of His perfect life. You are covered with the righteousness that fulfills every commandment and satisfies every demand of God's Law. Christ alone is perfect as His heavenly Father is perfect. His life is the righteousness that exceeds all others. His obedience is complete. His sacrifice is sufficient. And through His Word, His Name, and His very Body and Blood, He makes that righteousness yours. His light shines into your darkness. His forgiveness scatters your guilt. His life overcomes your death. You do not become salt and light by trying harder. You are salt and light because you belong to Him. This is not a call to self-improvement. It is a proclamation of grace. In Christ, you already have what God requires. You already stand forgiven. You already shine with a borrowed light. You already live by a righteousness not your own. And that righteousness will never fail. ----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

How can your righteousness exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees when you, like them, break God's commandments every day in thought, word, and deed? How can it exceed theirs when Jesus also says, “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect”? By that standard, no one stands. Not then. Not now. Not ever. And yet Jesus looks at His disciples and says, “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.” He does not say, “Try harder to become this.” He does not give a new set of spiritual goals. He makes a declaration. These are not imperatives. They are indicatives. Not commands to obey, but statements of reality. This is who you are in Christ. On your own, you have no righteousness that can stand before God. But Jesus gives you His. You are clothed with His obedience. You are salted with the salt of His perfect life. You are covered with the righteousness that fulfills every commandment and satisfies every demand of God's Law. Christ alone is perfect as His heavenly Father is perfect. His life is the righteousness that exceeds all others. His obedience is complete. His sacrifice is sufficient. And through His Word, His Name, and His very Body and Blood, He makes that righteousness yours. His light shines into your darkness. His forgiveness scatters your guilt. His life overcomes your death. You do not become salt and light by trying harder. You are salt and light because you belong to Him. This is not a call to self-improvement. It is a proclamation of grace. In Christ, you already have what God requires. You already stand forgiven. You already shine with a borrowed light. You already live by a righteousness not your own. And that righteousness will never fail. ----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

Welcome to church! Today we are wrapping up our "HABITS: Running the Race" series on this Super Sunday. While the rest of the world is focused on the "Big Game," we are focusing on the "Big Victory" already won for us by Jesus. Pastor Tom explores the final habit: Sacraments. We'll look at the beautiful meaning behind Baptism and Communion—what the Presbyterian tradition calls the "outward sign of an inward work"—and how these practices keep us connected to Christ and each other.

How can your righteousness exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees when you, like them, break God's commandments every day in thought, word, and deed? How can it exceed theirs when Jesus also says, “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect”? By that standard, no one stands. Not then. Not now. Not ever. And yet Jesus looks at His disciples and says, “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.” He does not say, “Try harder to become this.” He does not give a new set of spiritual goals. He makes a declaration. These are not imperatives. They are indicatives. Not commands to obey, but statements of reality. This is who you are in Christ. On your own, you have no righteousness that can stand before God. But Jesus gives you His. You are clothed with His obedience. You are salted with the salt of His perfect life. You are covered with the righteousness that fulfills every commandment and satisfies every demand of God's Law. Christ alone is perfect as His heavenly Father is perfect. His life is the righteousness that exceeds all others. His obedience is complete. His sacrifice is sufficient. And through His Word, His Name, and His very Body and Blood, He makes that righteousness yours. His light shines into your darkness. His forgiveness scatters your guilt. His life overcomes your death. You do not become salt and light by trying harder. You are salt and light because you belong to Him. This is not a call to self-improvement. It is a proclamation of grace. In Christ, you already have what God requires. You already stand forgiven. You already shine with a borrowed light. You already live by a righteousness not your own. And that righteousness will never fail. ----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

In this episode of the MAX Afterburner Podcast, host Matthew “Whiz” Buckley sits down with Bridger Lee Jensen, founder of Singularism, a Utah-based entheogenic church currently engaged in a landmark legal battle with the state of Utah.Whiz, who founded Sacred Warrior Fellowship last year, shares how he discovered Singularism and was immediately drawn to their fight to defend religious freedom at its core. Together, Whiz and Bridger take a deep dive into the legal case, the constitutional foundations of religious liberty in America, and why the right to sacramental communion lies at the heart of what this country was built to protect.The conversation explores how entheogenic sacraments like psilocybin are not about recreation or escape, but about healing, transformation, and direct communion with God. Both men share their personal religious backgrounds, the faith traditions they were raised in, and the moments that ultimately led them to step outside institutional frameworks and into their current missions.This episode challenges listeners to reconsider where God is encountered, who gets to decide what counts as legitimate faith, and why so many seekers are finding profound healing and reconnection with the Divine within through sacramental practice.This is a powerful, timely, and deeply human conversation that speaks to veterans, seekers, legal minds, and anyone concerned about the future of religious freedom in America. A must-listen episode.To learn more or support their ongoing legal fight, visit singularism.org.Return Home.

“Which Marian apparition has the best evidence?” In this episode, we explore this intriguing question alongside a variety of topics, including whether Pope Leo might change Church teaching and the implications of obeying dogmas given from the future. We also discuss the nature of sedevacantism and how God protects the Church from error. [Encore from August 8, 2025] Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 06:00 – Best-Evidence Marian Apparition 15:25 – Will Pope Leo Change Church Teaching? 22:48 – Must I Obey “Future” Dogmas? 29:55 – Is Sedevacantism Heresy? 36:30 – Accepting Jesus Without the Sacraments? (Rev 3:20) 41:15 – How Does God Protect the Church From Error? 47:47 – Protestant Mom Received Eucharist—What Should I Do?

“What are Anglican sacraments?” This question opens a discussion on the validity of Anglican sacraments, alongside inquiries about communicating the nature of devotionals to non-Catholics and the historical role of laity in the early Church. The conversation also touches on the impact of politics on the split between Orthodox and Roman rites, providing a rich exploration of faith and history. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:28 – What is “Norming the norm that cannot be normed?” 13:45 – What are some ways to communicate to non-Catholics and fallen away Catholics that devotionals are not obligatory? 21:08 – Why are Anglican sacraments not valid? 28:55 – Why does the New Testament not talk about the fulfillment of the prophecies of the destruction of the Temple? 31:48 – Are there any historical records of the laity in the early church being able to celebrate the Mass? 35:35 – What is Joe's preferred Bible? 37:41 – If it weren’t for human politics between East and West, would there not have been a split between Orthodox and Roman rites? 46:30 – Does Catholicism have a good answer to modern Biblical scholarship?

Read OnlineJesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house.” So he was not able to perform any mighty deed there, apart from curing a few sick people by laying his hands on them. He was amazed at their lack of faith. Mark 6:4–6It's an old expression that “familiarity breeds contempt.” It is often easier to harbor contempt for those closest to us than to offer admiration. This dynamic frequently manifests itself among relatives, neighbors, and friends. The “contempt” might remain subtle, without clear outward expression. Yet, when those close to us are honored, it is often easier to call to mind their faults than to join in their praise. These feelings, if left unchecked, not only harm human relationships but also blinds us to the workings of grace in those closest to us.Today's Gospel tells the story of Jesus returning to His hometown of Nazareth after beginning His public ministry. Soon after He was baptized and emerged from the desert, Jesus began gathering disciples, preaching authoritatively, and performing miracles. Though His ministry began in Capernaum, about twenty miles northeast of Nazareth, word spread quickly about Him, leaving the people of Nazareth uncertain about what to think.When Jesus returned to Nazareth for the first time, He entered the Synagogue and read from the Prophet Isaiah, declaring that the “Spirit of the Lord” was upon Him (cf. Luke 4:18). Mark's version of the event, which we read today, tells us that “many who heard him were astonished.” They asked one another, “‘Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary…?' And they took offense at him” (Mark 6:2–3).Their refusal to believe stemmed not from Jesus but from their inability to reconcile the Jesus they thought they knew—a carpenter, a local boy—with the Jesus who now spoke with divine wisdom and authority. The reaction of the people of Nazareth reveals the danger of clinging to preconceived notions about others, which blinds us to God's presence in the ordinary.When you consider the people with whom you are familiar, do you exhibit a similar tendency? Do you struggle to recognize Christ at work in family members, friends, or even within yourself? Familiarity can make us dismissive, but it also invites us to look more deeply for the divine, even in what appears humble and mundane. We must approach everyone we know with eyes of faith, searching for the presence of Christ, despite their weaknesses and sins. As Jesus reminds us, “Seek and you will find” (Matthew 7:7). This exhortation extends to seeking Christ in the people around us, especially those closest to us.This can be difficult. We are often tempted to focus on faults rather than goodness in others. The tendency is well illustrated in social media. Sensational and shocking posts draw our attention far more than uplifting and inspiring ones. This reveals the fallen human inclination, much like the people of Nazareth, to reject goodness and the deeper truth we are called to see. We often want others to fail as a way of feeling better about ourselves. Among the people of Nazareth, despite Jesus' perfection, those who knew Him allowed their preconceived judgments to blind them, leading to their rejection of Him as the Messiah. This reaction challenges us to examine our own hearts. How often do we fail to recognize Christ's presence in those closest to us? Reflect today on those closest to you and ponder how easily you seek and find Christ in them. Everyone you know—including yourself—is a sinner. It's easy to find fault and dwell on it, even sometimes when there is no fault to be found—such as with Jesus at Nazareth. Prayerfully reject that fallen human tendency and embrace the mission of seeking Christ in others, for “the one who seeks, finds.” Seek Jesus everywhere and celebrate the Good News of His ongoing presence in our world, especially in the lives of those with whom you are most familiar. My omnipresent Lord, You reveal Yourself to me in countless ways—through the Sacraments, Your holy Word, and the lives of those around me, especially those closest to me. Grant me the grace to seek You each day with faith and love, that I may find You in the hearts and actions of those You have placed in my life. Transform my vision, Lord, so that I may see Your presence even in the ordinary and humbly respond with gratitude and trust. Jesus, I trust in You.He Taught them with Authority by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.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.

February 3rd, 2026:  Sacraments & Sacramentals;  The Atheist Applauded;  St Blaise & Spiritual Health;  The Promise of Eternal Life;  St Blaise & Sacramentals

-The Roman Catechism of Trent (RCT) p. 291-299. -The Sacraments, ep. 24. -Fr. Wolfe talk on perfect contrition:  https://youtu.be/ncNNME98vyA

In the Beatitudes, Jesus radically redefines what it means to be blessed. The world teaches us that blessing looks like success, strength, health, and having life under control. But when Jesus looks out over the crowd on the mountain, He sees the poor, the grieving, the weary, and the broken. And He calls them blessed. Not because their lives are working, but because the kingdom of heaven has come near to them. The Beatitudes sound wrong to us because they expose our hearts. By nature, we do not want to be poor in spirit, meek, or mourning. We want to justify ourselves, manage appearances, and prove our worth before God and others. As the prophet Micah reminds us, we often assume God wants religious performance. But the Lord desires humility, a people who walk honestly before Him, knowing who He is and who we are not. In this way, the Beatitudes function as God's Law. They reveal our spiritual poverty and collapse every attempt at self-made righteousness. They leave us with empty hands. Yet they also lead us directly to the Gospel. Jesus is the truly blessed One. He is poor in spirit, meek, merciful, and persecuted for righteousness' sake. He fulfills every Beatitude in His own life, death, and resurrection. And what He fulfills, He freely gives. The Beatitudes are not instructions for how to earn God's favor. They are promises describing what is already true for those who are in Christ. Even now, believers possess the kingdom of heaven. Even now, they are comforted with forgiveness and filled with Christ's righteousness, often hidden under weakness and the cross. This blessing becomes especially concrete at the Lord's Table. There, the poor in spirit come with nothing to offer and receive everything. Christ gives His true Body and Blood for the forgiveness of sins. Holy Communion is the Beatitudes made tangible, mercy placed on the tongue and peace given as a gift. Finally, the Beatitudes lift our eyes toward heaven, where all that is hidden will be revealed. Mourning will turn to joy. Hunger will give way to fullness. Suffering will be transformed into glory. Until that day, Christ continues to gather His Church, not to reward the strong, but to bless the needy with this sure promise. Yours is the kingdom of heaven. ----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

In the Beatitudes, Jesus radically redefines what it means to be blessed. The world teaches us that blessing looks like success, strength, health, and having life under control. But when Jesus looks out over the crowd on the mountain, He sees the poor, the grieving, the weary, and the broken. And He calls them blessed. Not because their lives are working, but because the kingdom of heaven has come near to them. The Beatitudes sound wrong to us because they expose our hearts. By nature, we do not want to be poor in spirit, meek, or mourning. We want to justify ourselves, manage appearances, and prove our worth before God and others. As the prophet Micah reminds us, we often assume God wants religious performance. But the Lord desires humility, a people who walk honestly before Him, knowing who He is and who we are not. In this way, the Beatitudes function as God's Law. They reveal our spiritual poverty and collapse every attempt at self-made righteousness. They leave us with empty hands. Yet they also lead us directly to the Gospel. Jesus is the truly blessed One. He is poor in spirit, meek, merciful, and persecuted for righteousness' sake. He fulfills every Beatitude in His own life, death, and resurrection. And what He fulfills, He freely gives. The Beatitudes are not instructions for how to earn God's favor. They are promises describing what is already true for those who are in Christ. Even now, believers possess the kingdom of heaven. Even now, they are comforted with forgiveness and filled with Christ's righteousness, often hidden under weakness and the cross. This blessing becomes especially concrete at the Lord's Table. There, the poor in spirit come with nothing to offer and receive everything. Christ gives His true Body and Blood for the forgiveness of sins. Holy Communion is the Beatitudes made tangible, mercy placed on the tongue and peace given as a gift. Finally, the Beatitudes lift our eyes toward heaven, where all that is hidden will be revealed. Mourning will turn to joy. Hunger will give way to fullness. Suffering will be transformed into glory. Until that day, Christ continues to gather His Church, not to reward the strong, but to bless the needy with this sure promise. Yours is the kingdom of heaven. ----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

Read OnlineWhen Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:1–3The Beatitudes call us to the heights of morality and holiness. Those who live according to these divine precepts are blessed beyond measure. The promises to those who live this high calling are great: They become children of God and inherit the Kingdom of Heaven. Furthermore, they receive comfort, satisfaction, mercy, purity, and peace. Though the rewards are great, so are the requirements: spiritual poverty, holy sorrow, meekness, longing for righteousness, a merciful heart, purity, peacemaking, and patient endurance during persecution.The Beatitudes reveal the culmination of God's moral teaching and the highest revelation of the Christian life. To fully appreciate their significance, it is helpful to understand the history of moral revelation. Doing so is more than a history lesson on God's deepening revelation, it also reveals the path for our spiritual journey toward perfection.Morality begins with the Natural Law—the innate understanding of right and wrong written on the human heart. This Law is from God and is often described as living in accord with right reason or common sense. All people have access to this moral law within their own consciences, enabling them to recognize God as the Creator, honor Him, respect human dignity and the common good, and refrain from acts such as murder, theft, and deception. Though universally present in all people, sin and our fallen human nature cloud our ability to clearly see and follow that law.In the Old Testament, God slowly revealed Himself and called His people to greater holiness and moral living by adding to the Natural Law through revelation. From Abraham and his descendants, God raised up Moses through whom He revealed the Ten Commandments—a concise moral code rooted in Natural Law but explicitly revealed by God that called His chosen people to right worship, justice, and love for one's neighbor.Through the prophets—such as Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel—God called Israel to move beyond mere external observance of the law to an interior conversion of heart. Isaiah emphasized the virtues of justice and mercy, Jeremiah prophesied a new covenant in which God's law would be written on the hearts of His people, and Ezekiel promised that God would give His people a new heart and a new spirit, enabling them to follow His statutes.The wisdom literature—Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Wisdom, Sirach—deepened the understanding of moral life by revealing moral gifts, such as the Fear of the Lord, the blessedness of righteousness, and the call to trust in God's providence and live a virtuous life.The Beatitudes elevate all laws of the Old Covenant. Jesus not only calls us to profound holiness, He also provides the means to achieve it through His Sacrifice, transmitted through the grace of the Sacraments. To live the Beatitudes is to live in imitation of Christ, who perfectly embodied all virtues in His life, Passion, and Resurrection. Hence, the Beatitudes are not only a moral code we must follow, they are a participation in and union with the Son of God, Who lived the Beatitudes to perfection.As we ponder the Beatitudes, reflect today on their high and glorious calling, as well as their rewards. Sometimes, reading the Beatitudes can leave us discouraged, as we are aware of how far we are away from perfecting them. Dispel discouragement and know that these new divine precepts are attainable by grace. Set your eyes on the heights of perfection and open yourself to the abundant grace offered. Doing so will not only result in glorious spiritual rewards in this life, it will also result in the greatest eternal rewards in Heaven.Lord of perfection, You lived the Beatitudes to the fullest during Your life on earth and continue to manifest those perfections from Heaven. Please open my heart to Your grace and fill me with Your Holy Spirit, so that I may answer the call to the new and glorious moral state to which I am called. Empower me to live fully immersed in and guided by Your Sacrificial Love. Help me to inspire others to embrace this path of holiness, so that we may journey together toward the eternal joy of Your Kingdom. Jesus, I trust in You!  Image: Église Saint-Martin de Castelnau-d'Estrétefonds, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: 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.

In the Beatitudes, Jesus radically redefines what it means to be blessed. The world teaches us that blessing looks like success, strength, health, and having life under control. But when Jesus looks out over the crowd on the mountain, He sees the poor, the grieving, the weary, and the broken. And He calls them blessed. Not because their lives are working, but because the kingdom of heaven has come near to them. The Beatitudes sound wrong to us because they expose our hearts. By nature, we do not want to be poor in spirit, meek, or mourning. We want to justify ourselves, manage appearances, and prove our worth before God and others. As the prophet Micah reminds us, we often assume God wants religious performance. But the Lord desires humility, a people who walk honestly before Him, knowing who He is and who we are not. In this way, the Beatitudes function as God's Law. They reveal our spiritual poverty and collapse every attempt at self-made righteousness. They leave us with empty hands. Yet they also lead us directly to the Gospel. Jesus is the truly blessed One. He is poor in spirit, meek, merciful, and persecuted for righteousness' sake. He fulfills every Beatitude in His own life, death, and resurrection. And what He fulfills, He freely gives. The Beatitudes are not instructions for how to earn God's favor. They are promises describing what is already true for those who are in Christ. Even now, believers possess the kingdom of heaven. Even now, they are comforted with forgiveness and filled with Christ's righteousness, often hidden under weakness and the cross. This blessing becomes especially concrete at the Lord's Table. There, the poor in spirit come with nothing to offer and receive everything. Christ gives His true Body and Blood for the forgiveness of sins. Holy Communion is the Beatitudes made tangible, mercy placed on the tongue and peace given as a gift. Finally, the Beatitudes lift our eyes toward heaven, where all that is hidden will be revealed. Mourning will turn to joy. Hunger will give way to fullness. Suffering will be transformed into glory. Until that day, Christ continues to gather His Church, not to reward the strong, but to bless the needy with this sure promise. Yours is the kingdom of heaven. ----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012926.cfmWhen Jesus speaks of a lamp placed on a stand, He reveals how God works in history. What God makes known is meant to give light, and what He reveals is never accidental or incomplete.Father Mark Baron, MIC, shows how the Gospel and the First Reading proclaim a single, unified plan of salvation. The promise given to King David of a kingdom without end was never about political survival or earthly dominance. Even when Israel's kingdoms fell, God's promise did not fail. It was fulfilled in a way far greater than David could have imagined.At the Annunciation, the eternal kingdom promised to David takes flesh in Christ. God does not establish a political empire; He establishes a spiritual kingdom meant to rule hearts. From Abraham to Moses, from David to Christ, God's covenants expand His family until all are invited in. Israel is not discarded or replaced, but fulfilled. The Church is the continuation and completion of God's plan — the universal family gathered under Christ the King.Father Mark also clarifies modern misunderstandings that divide salvation history or reduce God's kingdom to end-times speculation. Catholic teaching proclaims one continuous plan, guided by the Holy Spirit, entrusted to the Church, and ordered toward charity, justice, and conversion of heart.Christ already reigns — in the Eucharist, in the Sacraments, and in every heart willing to receive His grace.Watch the full homily on DivineMercyPlus.org, the no-cost, ad-free Catholic streaming platform with exclusive Catholic content. ★ Support this podcast ★

The Beatitudes. The beginning of the Sermon on the Mount. We ask Sarah Stenson and Lars Olson: What is Jesus conveying in this sermon and how can preachers build on that in their own sermons? How do Christians misconstrue this text to be an instruction manual for being a good person?And how are you actually blessed when people revile you, persecute you, and utter all kinds of evil against you? CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTIONIn 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 struggling with life's challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the broken places of addiction not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it's not about fixing people—it's about preaching the Gospel.Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of Souls - AddictionCONFIRMATION Does your church have a confirmation class? Luther House of Study is excited to present a comprehensive online confirmation curriculum. The curriculum includes interactive digital lessons and supplemental teacher guides featuring custom videos, quizzes, drag and drop tasks, discussion questions, scripture passages, and prayers about the Apostles' Creed, the 10 Commandments, the Lord's Prayer, and the Sacraments. Visit lutherhouseofstudy.org/confirmation to dive into the curriculum and share it with your church or your pastor. SING TO THE LORD Martin Luther said, "Next to the word of God, the art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." To understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran church, Lars Olson and Mason Van Essen sit down with Zachary Brockhoff to discuss the lectionary's hymns, their meaning and history, and how the music preaches the Gospel. 

The early church father Augustine offered a simple but profound insight. Evil exists only where good should be. Cold has no life of its own. It is the absence of heat. Darkness is not a thing in itself. It is the absence of light. Heat and light exist independently. Cold and darkness do not. They depend on what is missing in order to appear. Evil works the same way. It is not a created substance with its own power. It emerges where goodness is absent. Scripture tells us that only God is good. And Jesus is God in the flesh. When He steps into Galilee and begins His ministry, something decisive happens. The people dwelling in darkness see a great light. Those living in the region and shadow of death find that a light has dawned. This is not a poetic exaggeration. It is a declaration of reality. Where Jesus is present, darkness cannot remain. The light that dawns is the Gospel itself. Jesus does not merely speak about goodness. He is goodness. He does not simply point toward the light. He is the Light of the world. His preaching, His healing, His calling of fishermen and sinners, all announce the same truth. God has come near. The darkness that once ruled has been confronted by the One who alone is good. This light does not shine only for a moment in history. It continues to shine wherever Christ is preached. Wherever sins are forgiven. Wherever the sick are healed and the broken are restored. The shadow of death is real, but it is no longer final. The light has dawned, and the darkness cannot overcome it. ----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

The early church father Augustine offered a simple but profound insight. Evil exists only where good should be. Cold has no life of its own. It is the absence of heat. Darkness is not a thing in itself. It is the absence of light. Heat and light exist independently. Cold and darkness do not. They depend on what is missing in order to appear. Evil works the same way. It is not a created substance with its own power. It emerges where goodness is absent. Scripture tells us that only God is good. And Jesus is God in the flesh. When He steps into Galilee and begins His ministry, something decisive happens. The people dwelling in darkness see a great light. Those living in the region and shadow of death find that a light has dawned. This is not a poetic exaggeration. It is a declaration of reality. Where Jesus is present, darkness cannot remain. The light that dawns is the Gospel itself. Jesus does not merely speak about goodness. He is goodness. He does not simply point toward the light. He is the Light of the world. His preaching, His healing, His calling of fishermen and sinners, all announce the same truth. God has come near. The darkness that once ruled has been confronted by the One who alone is good. This light does not shine only for a moment in history. It continues to shine wherever Christ is preached. Wherever sins are forgiven. Wherever the sick are healed and the broken are restored. The shadow of death is real, but it is no longer final. The light has dawned, and the darkness cannot overcome it. ----- Worship Times Sunday – 8:00 & 10:45 a.m. Monday – 6:30 p.m. https://trinitysheboygan.org https://facebook.com/trinitysheboygan We are a congregation of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Join us as we proclaim Christ crucified and risen for the forgiveness of sins. --- Trinity Lutheran Church, School and Child Care have been "Making Known the Love of Christ" in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and throughout the world since 1853 as a congregation gathering around God's Word and Sacraments to receive forgiveness and life everlasting. Trinity is located in downtown Sheboygan, only one block from the Mead Public Library and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts. We invite you to visit us in person! Trinity Lutheran Sheboygan is a proud member of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit their website: https://www.lcms.org/​​​​ Music for this production was obtained through a licensing agreement with One License, LLC. The copyright permission to reprint, podcast, and record hymns and songs is acquired through ID Number: 730195-A #LCMS #Lutheran #DivineService

To die a happy death is not about comfort, it is about grace. Scripture and the saints are clear: remaining in a state of grace is not optional for the soul that desires Heaven. One unrepented mortal sin is all it takes to place eternity in danger.In this episode we confront a truth the modern world avoids: distraction, compromise, and spiritual laziness slowly pull us away from Christ — often without us noticing.This is a call to wake up. To return to the Sacraments. To flee sin. To cling to Jesus with urgency and love. Because the battle for your soul is real.New Episodes Every Sunday Catholic Warrior 1:1 Coaching: ⁠ https://catholicwarrior.comSubscribe to Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@catholicwarriorofficialFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catholicwarriorpodcast?igsh=YWQwaTczMXJnazdt&utm_source=qr

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012526.cfmFather Chris Alar, MIC addresses one of the deepest wounds of our time: division. Scripture asks plainly, “Is Christ divided?” (1 Cor 1:13; NABRE). The answer is no. Yet division arises when truth is rejected and replaced with opinion. Christ Himself warned that His coming would cause division—not because division is good, but because some would refuse the truth He reveals.Father Chris explains that unity is not built on compromise or competing viewpoints. True unity can exist only where truth is shared. Jesus declares, “I am the way and the truth and the life” (Jn 14:6; NABRE). When individuals or societies abandon objective truth, division becomes inevitable. Violence, confusion, and unrest are symptoms of a deeper problem: the refusal to stand on what is true.The Church, established by Christ and entrusted with His authority, exists precisely to safeguard and proclaim that truth. While her members can fail in their human weakness, the Church cannot err in her divine teaching when she definitively proclaims matters of faith and morals. As the Catechism teaches, “It is part of the Church's mission to pass moral judgments even in matters related to politics, whenever the fundamental rights of man or the salvation of souls require it” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2246).Father Chris reminds us that division ends only when we surrender our will to God's will. The first commandment is not merely about avoiding false gods; it is about refusing to make ourselves the arbiter of truth. When we submit to Christ through the teaching of His Church, unity becomes possible—not a shallow peace, but a peace grounded in truth.This call is demanding, but it is also merciful. Truth is not meant to crush us; it is meant to free us. Only by standing together on the truth can the divisions of our world begin to heal.To deepen your understanding of how Christ guides His Church and communicates saving truth through the Sacraments, explore Understanding the Sacraments at ShopMercy.org. ★ Support this podcast ★

Pancho & Pepa Talk about: Amoris Laetitia Decoded: Clarity on Divorce, Remarriage, and Sacraments by padre Hector

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012426.cfmFather Jason Lewis, MIC confronts a question that has echoed since the time of Christ: Who is Jesus, really? As the Gospel recounts, some of Jesus' own relatives believed He was “out of his mind,” while the scribes accused Him of acting by the power of evil. Yet Jesus' works—healing the sick, casting out demons, forgiving sins—force a decision that cannot be avoided.Father Jason draws on the classic trilemma, popularized by C.S. Lewis: Jesus can only be one of three things—lunatic, liar, or Lord. A mere “good moral teacher” is not an option. As Lewis argued, a man who claimed divine authority and spoke as Jesus did could not simply be misunderstood or exaggerated. Either His claims were false, making Him gravely deceptive or delusional, or they were true, demanding our faith and obedience. Scripture itself bears witness to this truth: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (Jn 1:1, 14; NABRE).The Church has always proclaimed this same confession of faith. Saint Peter declared, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Mt 16:16; NABRE), not by human reasoning alone, but by revelation from the Father. Father Jason reminds us that the fruit of Christ's life and teachings confirms this identity. Lies do not produce saints. Deception does not transform the world through sacrificial love, truth, and mercy across centuries.Because Jesus is Lord, He does more than teach—He gives Himself. In the Eucharist, entrusted to the Apostles and handed down through the priesthood, Christ remains truly present to nourish His people and draw them into divine life. This is the heart of the Gospel and the foundation of Christian faith.To grow deeper in your understanding of how Christ continues His saving work through the Sacraments, explore Understanding the Sacraments at ShopMercy.org. ★ Support this podcast ★

In this sermon “The Light That Shatters the Shadow” based on Isaiah 9:2, we hear how Jesus Christ enters the real darkness of our world with His saving Gospel. This message for the Third Sunday after the Epiphany proclaims that the promised Messiah is not distant but present through His Word and Sacraments. The sermon speaks to Christians facing anxiety, guilt, cultural hostility, and spiritual loneliness, announcing that the Light of Christ overcomes sin, death, and the devil. From a confessional Lutheran (LCMS) perspective, the Law exposes the shadow in our hearts while the Gospel delivers forgiveness through Baptism and the Lord's Supper, where the true Body and Blood of Christ bring life and peace. Drawing on Isaiah, John 1, Matthew 4, and 2 Corinthians 4, this message centers on Christ as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace. If you are searching for biblical preaching, Lutheran sermons, Law and Gospel teaching, real presence theology, hope in suffering, Epiphany season sermons, or Christ the Light of the world, this proclamation is for you. Share with anyone needing encouragement that Jesus still shines in the valley of the shadow of death.☕ Support this ministry: https://buymeacoffee.com/whitegandalphWebsite: buymeacoffee.com/whitegandalphHashtags (5)#LutheranSermon #Isaiah9 #LightOfChrist #EpiphanySeason #LawAndGospel

Father Gabe Cillo, MIC, reflects on the witness of St. Marianne Cope, an immigrant and religious sister who did not hesitate when the call came to serve those suffering from leprosy on the island of Molokai, in Hawaii. While dozens of religious communities declined to send their members to serve, her community said yes. Saint Marianne went without fear, spending decades caring for the sick and dying, including St. Damien of Molokai in his final days. Her courage was not rooted in human strength, but in a supernatural certainty: Every person, especially the abandoned and suffering, bears the image and likeness of God.As death draws near, what remains essential becomes unmistakably clear. Father Gabe reminds us that in moments of illness, isolation, or approaching death, the soul longs for God with a new urgency. The Eucharist, a priestly blessing, and the presence of someone who comes “in the name of Jesus” are no longer small consolations; they are lifelines. Jesus tells us, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever” (Jn 6:51; NABRE).The saints understood this with great clarity. Saint Marianne Cope and St. Damien found their strength in the same source that sustains the Church today: the Most Blessed Sacrament. At the Last Supper, Christ entrusted Himself to the Apostles, commanding them, “Do this in memory of me,” handing on the gift of His Body and Blood through the priesthood across the ages. In the Eucharist, Christ remains truly present — Body, Blood, soul, and Divinity — faithful to His people until the end of Time.This living presence of Jesus is what steadies the heart when eternity comes into view. It is where the saints found courage, and where we, too, are invited to find our hope.To deepen your understanding of the Sacraments, explore Understanding the Sacraments at ShopMercy.org. ★ Support this podcast ★

Dean Taylor returns to the podcast to explain the sacraments and what this means for the life of the church. Historically, the Anabaptist view of the sacraments was a major issue in their breaking from the Catholics and Protestants. What were the issues at stake in those debates? What is the Anabaptist view of the sacraments? How should this inform how we live and do church?Dean's episode on the atonement AusbundDoctrines of the Bible ed. by Daniel KauffmanThe Shape of the Liturgy by Gregory DixThe Martyrs MirrorAn Introduction to Mennonite History by Cornelius J. DyckThe Schleitheim Confession The Writings of Pilgram MarpeckThe Writings of Balthasar HubmaierThis is the 303rd episode of Anabaptist Perspectives, a podcast, blog, and YouTube channel that examines various aspects of conservative Anabaptist life and thought.Sign-up for our monthly email newsletter which contains new and featured content!Join us on Patreon or become a website partner to enjoy bonus content!Visit our YouTube channel or connect on Facebook.Read essays from our blog or listen to them on our podcast, Essays for King JesusSubscribe on your podcast provider of choiceSupport us or learn more at anabaptistperspectives.org.The views expressed by our guests are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Anabaptist Perspectives or Wellspring Mennonite Church.

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/012026.cfmIn the Gospel, Jesus' repeated conflicts with the Pharisees over the Sabbath reveal not rebellion against God's law, but a restoration of its true purpose. As Father Mark Baron, MIC explains, the Pharisees arose during a time of intense pressure to preserve Jewish identity. Their zeal to protect the Law led them to build layers of manmade regulations meant to prevent even the possibility of sin. What began as devotion slowly became a burden.When the disciples plucked heads of grain, the Pharisees accused them of unlawful work. Yet Jesus responds with divine clarity: “The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath” (Mk 2:27; NABRE). God did not establish the Sabbath to enslave His people in fear, but to sanctify them. The commandment to rest is ordered toward holiness, not anxiety.Scripture confirms this purpose. “Remember the sabbath day—keep it holy” (Ex 20:8; NABRE). The Sabbath is a sign that God sanctifies His people, forming them into a holy nation (ref. Ex 31:13–14). To sanctify means to make holy, to perfect us in goodness. When rest becomes fear-driven rule keeping, the heart of the law is lost.Jesus, as Lord of the Sabbath, restores it to its original intention: human flourishing through worship, surrender, and love. This is fulfilled for Christians in the Lord's Day, when the faithful gather for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The Mass is not a burden imposed by God, but a gift through which He sanctifies us. To neglect it knowingly is not freedom, but loss.God's commandments are always a “yes” to life, goodness, and holiness. When rightly understood, they draw us closer to Him and restore us to what we were created to be.To deepen your understanding of how God sanctifies us through the Sacraments, explore Understanding the Sacraments at ShopMercy.org. ★ Support this podcast ★

-The Roman Catechism of Trent (RCT) p. 287-291. -The Sacraments, ep. 23. -How to make a general confession: https://www.youtube.com/live/6u1ZjJMBTiw?si=twH2UgwRYSfELBWh -Donate: https://www.padreperegrino.org/donate/