Podcast appearances and mentions of saint augustine

Storing Up Treasures in Heaven In this Homily, Jesus calls His disciples to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. The Homily explains that during biblical times people commonly measured wealth through fine clothing, gold and silver, abundant harvests, honor, and power. Yet all these earthly treasures are temporary. Clothes wear out, food decays, wealth can be stolen, and worldly achievements eventually pass away. Through examples such as the rich man and Lazarus and the parable of the rich fool, Jesus reminds His followers that material possessions cannot provide lasting security or eternal life. The Homily emphasizes that the true treasure of heaven is Jesus Christ Himself. Quoting Saint Louis de Montfort . . . “To have Jesus is to have everything” . . . and Saint Augustine's teaching to love God above all things and love everything else for God's sake, the Homily invites us to examine our priorities. What Occupies Our First Thoughts What occupies our first thoughts in the morning and our final thoughts at night? God asks not only for our love, but for our supreme love. When God becomes the highest good in our lives, all other gifts . . . family, friendships, work, talents, and possessions . . . find their proper place. The challenge of Christian discipleship is to make God our greatest treasure so that our hearts remain fixed on Him. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work Painting: Sermon on the Mount: Carl Bloch (1834 -1890) -------------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Matthew 6:19-23 First Reading: 2 Kings 11:1-4, 9-18, 20 -------------------------------------------------------------------- Why this Image Was Selected: This painting portrays Christ teaching the very principles that form the foundation of the Homily. It captures Jesus instructing His followers about heavenly values, spiritual priorities, and the eternal kingdom.

What can a missionary from the eighth century teach us about faith, leadership, history, and using our talents well? Recorded on the feast of Saint Boniface—the patron saint and namesake of Father Boniface Hicks—this episode explores the life of the Benedictine monk known as the Apostle to the Germans and the lasting civilization that grew from his mission.Father Boniface explains how Saint Boniface left England to preach among the Germanic peoples, established monasteries and dioceses, strengthened connections with Rome, reformed parts of the Church, and worked wisely with political leaders who could protect the growing Christian communities. His monasteries became more than religious buildings: monks and nuns cultivated land, educated people, stabilized communities, and helped create the foundations from which towns and cities grew.Joe reflects on what this means today. Saint Boniface did not separate spiritual faithfulness from practical competence. He used language, organization, diplomacy, courage, Scripture, liturgy, and political awareness in service of God. His life demonstrates that Christians are not called to withdraw from the world or reject success. They are called to develop their gifts, use worldly knowledge wisely, and direct everything toward love, evangelization, and the good of others.Key IdeasReading the lives of the saints gives us a personal and often more reliable way to understand history.Saint Boniface combined missionary courage with organization, education, diplomacy, and practical leadership.Monasteries became centers of evangelization, agriculture, stability, learning, and the development of communities.Worldly skills are not opposed to holiness when they are placed in service of God and the good of others.Saint Boniface invested his talents rather than protecting them, ultimately giving his life while continuing his missionary work.Links & ReferencesNone explicitly referenced with a clear official/source link in this episode.CTA: If this helped, please leave a review or share this episode with a friend.Questions or thoughts? Email FatherAndJoe@gmail.com.TagsFather and Joe, Joe Rockey, Father Boniface Hicks, Saint Boniface, feast of Saint Boniface, Apostle to the Germans, Benedictine, Benedictine monk, missionary, evangelization, Christian history, Church history, eighth century, Germany, England, Rome, Pope Gregory, Saint Augustine of Canterbury, Charles Martel, Charlemagne, Holy Roman Empire, monasteries, monasticism, Church reform, Latin Church, Latin liturgy, Scripture, martyrdom, courage, talents, stewardship, leadership, diplomacy, political wisdom, civilization, agriculture, education, community building, Fulda, Saint Vincent Archabbey, Boniface Wimmer, Catholic history, relationship with God, relationship with others, relationship with self

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Joshua at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

From the book Marriage and Virginity by St. Augustine.

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

What do prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance look like in the life of a believer? In this episode, we explore Saint Augustine's take on the four cardinal virtues. Discover whether Christians should intentionally pursue these traits and how to cultivate true, God-centered virtue in your daily spiritual walk.Connect With Usprovidenceomaha.org | Instagram | FacebookEmail Usformation@providenceomaha.org

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

Send us Fan MailA privileged life can make you feel safe while your soul quietly starves. We tell the story of Saint Norbert, a gifted court insider who climbs the ladder of influence, enjoys the splendor of the imperial court, and performs religious duties without letting the Gospel become a living fire. Then a violent thunderstorm interrupts everything. A lightning strike near his horse throws him to the ground and, in that terrifying stillness, he finally sees the truth about himself and the mercy of God that refuses to let him stay comfortable.From there, we walk step by step through what Catholic conversion looks like when it's real: repentance that goes beyond emotion, a return to the sacraments, and a new hunger for confession and the Eucharist. Norbert's story is packed with timeless themes Catholic listeners search for today: God's mercy, surrender, spiritual renewal, Eucharistic devotion, and how to discern a call to deeper faith when your life looks “fine” on the outside.Norbert doesn't stop at self-repair. He embraces penance and poverty, then preaches across Europe with a message that confronts corruption without losing compassion. We also explore the founding of the Norbertine Order at Premontre, a community built on the Rule of Saint Augustine, Marian devotion, and a powerful balance of contemplative prayer with active ministry. If you've been craving renewal in your own walk with Christ or wondering what meaningful Church reform actually starts with, this story gives a clear, challenging answer.Subscribe for more saint stories that strengthen daily discipleship, and if this helped you, share it with a friend and leave a review so more listeners can find the journey.Become a Mission AngelOpen by Steve Bailey Support the showJourneys of Faith brings you Super Saints PodcastsChat with US 24/7 Ask us anything https://chatting.page/mjxs9aerrtgm3lmpndlcepmbyosntrjnDownload Journeys of Faith App for Iphone or Android FREE https://journeysoffaith.com/pages/download-our-appPlease consider subscribing to this podcast or making a donation to Journeys of Faith Help us Grow!Journeys of Faith is blessed to provide Catholic media, including podcasts and inspirational content, free of charge across multiple media platforms for viewers and listeners around the world. While access to this content remains free, there are significant and continually increasing costs associated with producing, hosting, and distributing these programs. Your support helps us continue sharing the beauty of the Catholic faith with souls everywhere. We want to reach more souls and you can help us do that by becoming a Mission Angel. Make a Donation Any AmountRefer a FriendYou can help us ...

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

Purpose Statement: The church has lost most of its zeal for soul winning! Gibbon the historian, says that the chief cause of the rapid spread of Christianity in the days of the Roman Empire was the tremendous amount of personal work carried on by the rank and file of Christ's followers? How did Saint Augustine come to Christ? Who did Bishop Meletius lead to Christ? What did the late Gypsy Smith say about capturing souls? What question did Nicodemus wrestle with when he came to talk with Jesus at night?

Today is May 31, 2026 - the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity. Our celebrant was Monsignor Joseph Donnelly.Who is God? On the Feast of the Holy Trinity, we explore that timeless question through the story of Saint Augustine on the shore and what it means to stand before a sacred mystery too vast for any of us to fully grasp. Drawing on the three readings for today's feast, we trace our experience of God through Scripture: God the Father in the Old Testament, Jesus Christ in the Gospels, and the Holy Spirit alive in our lives today. God hasn't gone anywhere..., and chances are, you already know that.Permission to stream the music in this service obtained from ONE LICENSE with license # A-735133. All rights reserved.

Today’s Topics: 1, 2, 3, 4) Father Charles Murr joins Terry Gospel – Mark 10:32-45 – The disciples were on the way, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus went ahead of them. They were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. Taking the Twelve aside again, He began to tell them what was going to happen to Him. “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes,  and they will condemn Him to death and hand Him over to the Gentiles who will mock Him, spit upon Him, scourge Him, and put Him to death, but after three days He will rise.” Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus and said to Him, “Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask of You.” He replied, “What do you wish Me to do for you?” They answered Him, “Grant that in Your glory we may sit one at Your right and the other at Your left.” Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the chalice that I drink or be baptized with the baptism with which I am baptized?” They said to Him, “We can.” Jesus said to them, “The chalice that I drink, you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized, you will be baptized; but to sit at My right or at My left is not Mine to give but is for those for whom it has been prepared.” When the ten heard this, they became indignant at James and John. Jesus summoned them and said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Memorial of Saint Augustine of Canterbury, Priest Saint Augustine, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day

Join Father Kevin Drew as he preaches on this Memorial of Saint Augustine of Canterbury, Bishop. Today's readings First Reading: 1 Thessalonians 2:2b-8 Psalm: Psalm 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 7-8a, 10 Gospel: Matthew 9:35-38 Catholic Radio Network

Send us Fan MailEngland's conversion didn't begin with a throne room debate. It began with a monk stepping onto a foggy shoreline, carrying the Gospel, trusting the Eucharist, and refusing to meet fear with force. We tell the story of Saint Augustine of Canterbury as a true Catholic pilgrimage, one shaped by obedience, humility, and the kind of courage that looks quiet until it changes history. We start by sketching the world Augustine enters: late sixth century Anglo-Saxon kingdoms marked by pagan worship, local warlords, and a deep spiritual longing that doesn't yet know the name of Christ. From there, we follow Pope Gregory the Great and the moment that moves him to act, then the careful wisdom of his instructions: go patiently, teach gradually, and let witness carry the weight of the message. Along the way, we return again and again to core Catholic themes that made the mission possible, devotion to Mary, the rosary, and unwavering faith in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Then we arrive in Kent, where first encounters matter. We walk through Augustine's meeting with King Ethelbert, the first Mass celebrated on English soil, and the steady influence of Queen Bertha, whose prayerful fidelity helps prepare a kingdom for baptism. The takeaway is simple and demanding: evangelization grows through prayer, charity, and sacramental life, one household at a time. If you care about Catholic saints, Church history, or how to share the faith today without compromise, this story will stay with you. Subscribe for more, share this with a friend who loves the saints, and leave a review so more listeners can find us. What's one “yes” you're being asked to make right now?Open by Steve Bailey Support the showChat with US 24/7 Ask us anything https://chatting.page/mjxs9aerrtgm3lmpndlcepmbyosntrjnDownload Journeys of Faith App for Iphone or Android FREE https://journeysoffaith.com/pages/download-our-appJourneys of Faith brings your Super Saints PodcastsPlease consider subscribing to this podcast or making a donation to Journeys of Faith Help us Grow!Why you should shop here at Journeys of Faith official site!New Mega Search Engine!Lowest Prices and Higher discounts up to 50%Free Shipping starts at $18 - Express Safe Checkout Click HereCannot find it let us find or create it - - Click HereRewards Program is active - click Here

Full Text of Readings Wednesday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 349 The Saint of the day is Saint Augustine of Canterbury Saint Augustine of Canterbury's Story In the year 596, some 40 monks set out from Rome to evangelize the Anglo-Saxons in England. Leading the group was Augustine, the prior of their monastery. Hardly had he and his men reached Gaul when they heard stories of the ferocity of the Anglo-Saxons and of the treacherous waters of the English Channel. Augustine returned to Rome and to Gregory the Great—the pope who had sent them—only to be assured by him that their fears were groundless. Augustine of Canterbury set out again. This time the group crossed the English Channel and landed in the territory of Kent, ruled by King Ethelbert, a pagan married to a Christian, Bertha. Ethelbert received them kindly, set up a residence for them in Canterbury and within the year, on Pentecost Sunday 597, was himself baptized. After being consecrated a bishop in France, Augustine returned to Canterbury, where he founded his see. He constructed a church and monastery near where the present cathedral, begun in 1070, now stands. As the faith spread, additional sees were established at London and Rochester. Work was sometimes slow and Augustine of Canterbury did not always meet with success. Attempts to reconcile the Anglo-Saxon Christians with the original Briton Christians—who had been driven into western England by Anglo-Saxon invaders—ended in dismal failure. Augustine failed to convince the Britons to give up certain Celtic customs at variance with Rome and to forget their bitterness, helping him evangelize their Anglo-Saxon conquerors. Laboring patiently, Augustine of Canterbury wisely heeded the missionary principles—quite enlightened for the times—suggested by Pope Gregory: purify rather than destroy pagan temples and customs; let pagan rites and festivals be transformed into Christian feasts; retain local customs as far as possible. The limited success Augustine achieved in England before his death in 605, a short eight years after his arrival, would eventually bear fruit long after in the conversion of England. Augustine of Canterbury can truly be called the “Apostle of England.” Reflection Augustine of Canterbury comes across today as a very human saint, one who could suffer like many of us from a failure of nerve. For example, his first venture to England ended in a big U-turn back to Rome. He made mistakes and met failure in his peacemaking attempts with the Briton Christians. He often wrote to Rome for decisions on matters he could have decided on his own had he been more self-assured. He even received mild warnings against pride from Pope Gregory, who cautioned him to “fear lest, amidst the wonders that are done, the weak mind be puffed up by self-esteem.” Augustine's perseverance amidst obstacles and only partial success teaches today's apostles and pioneers to struggle on despite frustrations and be satisfied with gradual advances.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Theology is the study of the nature of God. By that definition, a theologian doesn't have to take the shape of C.S. Lewis or Saint Augustine or Thomas Aquinas. Anyone can be theologian.That's the mindset that Phylicia Masonheimer had when she created her ministry, Every Woman a Theologian. “We at EWAT argue for a different kind of theologian: the theologian who drives to her corporate job every morning, who knows what it's like to be single at thirty, or who juggles babies while her husband travels for work,” she writes. “Yes, we believe every woman should be a theologian. Every woman should be a student of the heart of God.”Phylicia is such a gifted writer and thinker, it was a joy to welcome her on the podcast this week. I've followed her for a while, but we connected recently after I came across an essay of hers where she shared her experience with secondary infertility. That resonated deeply with me as Emily and I are in the midst of our own infertility journey.Much of our conversation centers around that topic — how to navigate it as well as how to care for those in your life that are experiencing infertility or miscarriage. Phylicia also shares her testimony and how an addiction to erotica is what propelled her into writing in the first place. Her vulnerability has continued to resonate with readers for over two decades, and I'm grateful she was willing to share her story on the podcast this week.She's the author of several books, including Every Woman a Theologian and Every Home a Foundation. She also has tons of free resources centered around theology on her website, phyliciamasonheimer.com.All episodes are now available in full on Substack and YouTube. On YouTube, Just search ⁠In No Hurry Podcast⁠ and subscribe to be notified when new episodes go live.If you enjoyed this, consider sharing it with a friend or someone in your life who might need to hear it. And if you want to stay connected, follow In No Hurry Podcast on ⁠Instagram⁠ and the new ⁠TikTok⁠ page for clips, updates, and more from these conversations.

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

Today’s Topics: Joshua Charles joins Terry for Friday with the Fathers 1) Gospel – John 21:15-19 – After Jesus had revealed Himself to His disciples and eaten breakfast with them,  He said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” Simon Peter answered Him, “Yes, Lord, You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My lambs.” He then said to Simon Peter a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” Simon Peter answered Him, “Yes, Lord, You know that I love You.”  He said to him, “Tend My sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was distressed that He had said to him a third time, “Do you love Me?” and he said to Him, “Lord, You know everything; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. Amen, amen, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted;  but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” He said this signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when He had said this, He said to him, “Follow Me.” Memorial of Saint Rita of Cascia, Religious Saint Rita, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) In Part 2, Terry and Joshua discuss miracle stories of Early Father of the Church, Saint Augustine

Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”In a world that often feels disconnected from the divine, many of us grapple with profound questions about identity, purpose, and love. Saint Catherine of Siena once said that if you become who you truly are, you would light the world on fire. This echoes the sentiments of John Paul II and Saint Athanasius, who spoke of the deep yearning inscribed in each human heart—a longing for a divine connection that can transform our lives. In this Episode we delve into these themes, particularly through the lens of Saint Augustine's journey and the insights from the Claymore Battle Plan.To start, we must recognize that our hearts are filled with desires to love and be loved. Yet, they can also be confused and hurt, struggling to find coherence in our experiences. In *Act 26* from the Claymore Battle Plan Handbook, we explore how the gospel intersects with our lived experiences. This interaction leads us to our "aha moment," where we encounter Jesus Christ and begin to understand our true purpose. Visit Claymore Milites Christi to learn more about the Battle Plan and connection to other men! Support the show

There is a restlessness in the human heart that nothing in this world can satisfy. Saint Augustine called it the clue to our true nature — we were made for God, and until we find that, the searching never stops. Every object has its dharma, its purpose. The sages of the Bhakti yoga tradition say the dharma of the soul is divine love. It's what we're made for. In this episode Raghunath and Kaustubha explore that human restlessness alongside the Srimad Bhagavatam's Rāsa Līlā — where the gopīs of Vrindavan surrender to the calling of what they were made for. Let your FOMO be for the divine. Srimad Bhagavatam 10.29.21-30 ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

There is a restlessness in the human heart that nothing in this world can satisfy. Saint Augustine called it the clue to our true nature — we were made for God, and until we find that, the searching never stops. Every object has its dharma, its purpose. The sages of the Bhakti yoga tradition say the dharma of the soul is divine love. It's what we're made for. In this episode Raghunath and Kaustubha explore that human restlessness alongside the Srimad Bhagavatam's Rāsa Līlā — where the gopīs of Vrindavan surrender to the calling of what they were made for. Let your FOMO be for the divine. Srimad Bhagavatam 10.29.21-30 ******************************************************************** LOVE THE PODCAST? WE ARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AND WOULD LOVE FOR YOU TO JOIN! Go to https://www.wisdomofthesages.com WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@WisdomoftheSages LISTEN ON ITUNES: https://podcasts/apple.com/us/podcast/wisdom-of-the-sages/id1493055485 CONNECT ON FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/wisdomofthesages108 *********************************************************************

Let's relax in the wayback machine with more from the religious history of England. This time, Saint Bede recalls Saxon double-dealings, divine healings, the Pelagian heresy, and the somewhat cowardly companions of Saint Augustine, who get politely yelled at by the pope. Miraculous!   Help us stay ad-free and 100% listener-supported! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/boringbookspod Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/d5kcMsW   Read "Ecclesiastical History of England" by The Venerable Bede at Project Gutenberg: https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/38326   Music: "Boring Books for Bedtime" by Lee Rosevere, licensed under CC BY, https://leerosevere.bandcamp.com   If you'd like to suggest a copyright-free reading for soft-spoken relaxation to help you overcome insomnia, anxiety and other sleep issues, connect on our website, https://www.boringbookspod.com.

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

Full Text of Readings Saturday of the Sixth Week of Easter Lectionary: 296 The Saint of the day is Saint Margaret of Cortona Saint Margaret of Cortona's Story Margaret was born of farming parents in Laviano, Tuscany. Her mother died when Margaret was seven; life with her stepmother was so difficult that Margaret moved out. For nine years she lived with Arsenio, though they were not married, and she bore him a son. In those years, she had doubts about her situation. Somewhat like Saint Augustine, she prayed for purity—but not just yet. One day she was waiting for Arsenio and was instead met by his dog. The animal led Margaret into the forest where she found Arsenio murdered. This crime shocked Margaret into a life of penance. She and her son returned to Laviano, where she was not well received by her stepmother. They then went to Cortona, where her son eventually became a friar. In 1277, three years after her conversion, Margaret became a Franciscan tertiary. Under the direction of her confessor, who sometimes had to order her to moderate her self-denial, she pursued a life of prayer and penance at Cortona. There she established a hospital and founded a congregation of tertiary sisters. The poor and humble Margaret was, like Francis, devoted to the Eucharist and to the passion of Jesus. These devotions fueled her great charity and drew sinners to her for advice and inspiration. She was canonized in 1728. St. Margaret of Cortona's liturgical feast is celebrated on February 22. Reflection Seeking forgiveness is sometimes difficult work. It is made easier by meeting people who, without trivializing our sins, assure us that God rejoices over our repentance. Being forgiven lifts a weight and prompts us to acts of charity.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Proverbs on Mother's Day at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

One of the great forefathers of our Christian faith was Augustine of Hippo, who lived from 354 to 430 AD. You may know him as Saint Augustine. Perhaps you've even read some of his writing, including his Confessions, which is his autobiography, and the City of God. His conversion story is fairly well known, as his mother had diligently prayed  seventeen years for her son to come to faith in Jesus Christ. Recently, I've been reading a little book of quotes from Augustine, and I ran across these words from one of his sermons. I believe they're good words to inform the way we parent: "Good superiors rebuke those who stir up strife, comfort those of little courage, take the part of the weak, refute opponents, and guard against traps. They teach the ignorant, awake the indolent, put the presumptuous in their place, mollify the quarrelsome, help the poor, liberate the oppressed, encourage the good, suffer the wicked, and love everyone." Parents, love your children well!

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

4.29.2026 #RolandMartinUnfiltered: Voting Rights Siege. SCOTUS Guts Voting Act. VA Court Blocks Certification. DeSantis Map Approved We're facing a significant assault on our voting rights. The Supreme Court has weakened the core requirement of the Voting Rights Act that protected majority-minority districts. This decision will make it much more difficult to challenge discriminatory redistricting maps. I'll discuss this ruling with Virginia Congressman Bobby Scott, Co-Chair of the Congressional Voting Rights Caucus; Quentin James, President of The Collective PAC; and Damon Hewitt, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. In Florida, the state House has passed Governor Ron DeSantis' proposed congressional map, which could enable Republicans to flip up to four seats. We'll show you how Representative Angie Dixon's disapproval of the vote. The Virginia Supreme Court has chosen not to overturn a lower court ruling that blocked the implementation of last week's redistricting election results. In South Carolina, the Lieutenant Governor has criticized students at HBCU South Carolina State University for protesting her speaking at this year's graduation. We'll talk to a former board member and alum about the resistance to her presence. And, in North Carolina, the interim president of Saint Augustine's University has resigned as the school files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and ceases its fight for accreditation. Download the Black Star Network app at http://www.blackstarnetwork.com! We're on iOS, AppleTV, Android, AndroidTV, Roku, FireTV, XBox and SamsungTV. The #BlackStarNetwork is a news reporting platform covered under Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

Full Text of Readings Tuesday of the Third Week of Easter Lectionary: 274 The Saint of the day is Saint Anselm Saint Anselm's Story Indifferent toward religion as a young man, Anselm became one of the Church's greatest theologians and leaders. He received the title “Father of Scholasticism” for his attempt to analyze and illumine the truths of faith through the aid of reason. At 15, Saint Anselm wanted to enter a monastery, but was refused acceptance because of his father's opposition. Twelve years later, after careless disinterest in religion and years of worldly living, he finally fulfilled his desire to be a monk. He entered the monastery of Bec in Normandy, was elected prior three years later, and 15 years later, was unanimously chosen abbot. Considered an original and independent thinker, Anselm was admired for his patience, gentleness, and teaching skill. Under his leadership, the Abbey of Bec became a monastic school, influential in philosophical and theological studies. During these years, at the community's request, Anselm began publishing his theological works, comparable to those of Saint Augustine. His best-known work is the book Cur Deus Homo (“Why God Became Man”). Against his will, Anselm was appointed archbishop of Canterbury in 1093, at age 60. His appointment was opposed at first by England's King William Rufus and later accepted. Rufus persistently refused to cooperate with efforts to reform the Church. Saint Anselm finally went into voluntary exile until Rufus died in 1100. He was then recalled to England by Rufus' brother and successor, Henry I. Disagreeing fearlessly with Henry over the king's insistence on investing England's bishops, Anselm spent another three years in exile in Rome. His care and concern extended to the very poorest people. Opposing the slave trade, Anselm obtained from the national council at Westminster the passage of a resolution prohibiting the sale of human beings. Reflection Like every true follower of Christ, Saint Anselm had to carry his cross, especially in the form of opposition and conflict with those in political control. Though personally a mild and gentle man and a lover of peace, he would not back off from conflict and persecution when principles were at stake.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

This is the first meditation from a year end retreat at Saint Augustine's Seminary in Toronto, begun April 13, 2026. We begin with the account of the discouraged disciples of Emmaus.Preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai in Saint Augustine Seminary.Thumbnail: MS VisualsMusic: Kevin Macleod, White Lotus.

Bishop Michael Burbidge discusses his Pastoral Letter: The Divine Physician and a Christian Approach to Mental Health and Wellbeing. Dr. Michael Horne continues the conversation as the Director of Clinical Support for Catholic Charities. T's Two Sense talks surrender with regard to Saint Augustine. Plus, Newman Guide News with Kelly Salomon features an important conversation with the President of the University of Dallas, Dr Jonathan J. Sanford

Matt Swaim stops in with highlights from tonight's The Journey Home on EWTN. Fr. Paul Sullins comments on his research regarding post-abortive persistent emotional stress. Gail Buckley-Barringer brings us the Scripture Verse of the Week. Plus, T's Two Sense looks at an interview with James K.A. Smith about Saint Augustine. Finally, an uplifting conversation with Dr. Ryan Hanning - discussing what is behind the new trend and the record breaking numbers of young adults 19-35 coming to the Catholic Church

Pastor Ted Owens preaches from Ephesians at Petra Baptist Church located in Saint Augustine, Florida.

I had the wonderful opportunity to lead candlelight at a local revival. We spent the evening reflect on the history of communion and Paul's words to the church of Corinth.

A single sentence from a saint can inspire a whole generation, or mislead it. We open with the line many Orthodox Christians have heard, “Saint Paisios said America will become Orthodox,” then slow the story down to ask the question most of us skip: what was actually said, to whom, through what translation, and with what intent? That one case becomes a clear window into how patristic quotes and saint sayings spread online, especially when memes replace sources and confidence replaces context.Translations shape theology. We dig into why older patristic translations can smuggle in legalistic language, and why terms like “atonement” and “substitution” carry baggage.Cloud of Witnesses, Jeremy Jeremiah, Mario Andrew, and James St. Simon talk with Father Joseph Lucas about how patristic quotes get distorted and how to read the Church Fathers in context without turning memes into theology. We trace how the Orthodox Church leans on consensus, careful sourcing, and prayerful practice so our reading leads to repentance rather than argument.• the Saint Paisios “America will become Orthodox” quote and why its original context is more tentative• why unsupported “floating quotes” should not shape doctrine or spiritual decisions• authority in tradition through ecumenical councils and the consensus of the Fathers• reading individual Fathers through the lens of the wider patristic tradition• why Saint Augustine needs careful, contextual reading alongside the Greek Fathers• the difference between modern online apologetics and patristic apologetics with oversight• why ancient rhetorical attacks do not translate well to today's debates• how translation choices can import legalistic or forensic connotations• why “the theologian is one who prays” matters and how Saint Mary of Egypt models itPlease, if you haven't already, give this video a like. Let us know your thoughts down below. Subscribe if you want more content like this. If you haven't bought the book yet please go check it out I would recommend it highly. You can find this entire conversation at our Patreon right now.Father Joseph Lucas, author of How To Read The Holy Fathers, helps us build a practical framework for reading the Church Fathers and the wider Orthodox tradition responsibly. We talk about patristic consensus, why ecumenical councils carry unique weight, and why later “compiler” saints can guide ordinary readers toward what the Church has truly received. We also tackle tough edges like how to approach Saint Augustine carefully, how to think about figures like Origen, and why you cannot build a full Orthodox theology on one favorite author.We then turn to Orthodox apologetics today: what it gets right, what it risks, and why ancient debate tactics do not map neatly onto modern online arguments. We close with translation and theology language, including how certain English terms can carry legalistic baggage, and we return to the heart of the Fathers: theology that forms prayer, repentance, and transformation, beautifully embodied in Saint Mary of Egypt.That “famous” Church Father quote might be fake or twisted. We talk with Fr. Joseph Lucas about reading the Holy Fathers in context, spotting meme theology, and staying inside the Church's consensus.Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Audio: https://cloudofwitnessesradio.buzzsprout.comPlease leave a comment with your thoughts!

It's a fact that many of you who are listening to my voice right now are weighed down under the burden of a child or grandchild who has entered into rebellion and walked away at some level from you and from the Church. I know that this is a heartbreaking load to carry. And when you are carrying it, you are often led to feel like nobody understands or nobody is willing to step up and carry the load with you. I want to remind you of the words Jesus has spoken in Matthew 11:28. He says, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and over-burdened, and I will give you rest! Put on my yoke and learn from me. For I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Along with Saint Augustine, we can pray these words for each other, “Lord, those who are bowed down with burdens you lift up, and they do not fall because You are their support.” Burden-bearing parents, may the Lord bless you today with a deep sense of his promised peace. 

Read OnlineOn the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don't know where they put him.” John 20:1–2Have you ever misunderstood something, even when your intentions were good? We all experience moments when we act with love but still get things wrong. Even our good actions are rarely perfect.On that first Easter morning, before the sun rose, Mary Magdalene offers an example of this. She got some things right—her love and devotion to Jesus were sincere—but she did not yet understand the full reality of what she witnessed. Though the other Gospels mention other women at the tomb, John highlights Mary. Saint Augustine suggests that this is because she was “undoubtedly the most fervent in love” with Christ. When Mary Magdalene saw the stone rolled away, her love compelled her to act immediately. Saint John Chrysostom says she “ran to the disciples with all the speed of love.” Her fervor drove her to tell Simon Peter and John what she had seen, showing us how love urges us to seek God without delay.Despite her deep love, Mary misunderstood the meaning of the empty tomb. Her emotional response—“They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don't know where they put him”—reveals her struggle to grasp the mystery unfolding before her. Like many of us, she was driven by emotion rather than a deeper trust in God.Jesus was certainly not displeased with her misunderstanding, as Scripture identifies her in John 20:11–17 as the first to whom He appeared. When she encountered the risen Christ, she initially mistook Him for the gardener, indicating that her understanding of the Resurrection was still unfolding. Despite that, Jesus met her where she was and guided her toward deeper faith. This reminds us that our emotions, though good, must be purified by faith, allowing love to mature into greater trust and understanding. Reflect today on Mary Magdalene's experience on Easter morning. Like her, we are called to seek our Lord with fervor, even when our understanding is incomplete. And like her, we can trust that Jesus will meet us where we are, gently leading us into deeper faith. As we celebrate the Resurrection, pray that your love, with all its emotions, may be more fully purified by grace, so that you, too, will encounter Christ with renewed understanding and joy. My resurrected Lord, I love You deeply but acknowledge that my love must be further purified by faith so that I will understand You and Your will more clearly. As I grow in understanding of the many divine mysteries You reveal to me, help my love to grow so that I may more perfectly imitate the pure love You desire of me. Jesus, I trust in You.    Image: Christ's Appearance to Mary Magdalene after the Resurrection by Alexander Ivanov. State Russian Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia. Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Fr Ripperger accuses Traditional Catholics of "detraction" : Is he right? Detraction vs. Calumny? Jaden Ivey plays sports, Chicago Bulls play politics. Neo-Pontiff of Modernist Synodality Leo congratulates pro-abortion, pro-perversion Sarah Mullally on her becoming the "Archbishop of Canterbury" - the 106th successor of Saint Augustine of Canterbury! Holy Week and God's unfathomable love for us! This episode was recorded on 3/31/2026. Our Links: http://linkwcb.com/ Please consider making a monetary donation to What Catholics Believe. Father Jenkins remembers all of our benefactors in general during his daily Mass, and he also offers one Mass on the first Sunday of every month specially for all supporters of What Catholics Believe. May God bless you for your generosity! https://www.wcbohio.com/donate Subscribe to our other YouTube channels: ‪@WCBHighlights‬ ‪@WCBHolyMassLivestream‬ May God bless you all!

Read OnlineMany of the Jews who had come to Mary and seen what Jesus had done began to believe in him. But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees convened the Sanhedrin and said, “What are we going to do? This man is performing many signs. If we leave him alone, all will believe in him, and the Romans will come and take away both our land and our nation.” John 11:45–48Tomorrow we begin Holy Week with Palm Sunday, commemorating Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Today's Gospel recounts events shortly after Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, which took place in Bethany, near Jerusalem—just days before He would ride into the city on a donkey, greeted with shouts of “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (John 12:13).During the final months of His life, Jesus often stayed out of the public eye to avoid those plotting His death. However, He briefly emerged to perform His final recorded miracle: raising Lazarus from the dead. This miracle became the decisive moment that prompted the Pharisees to actively plot against Him. Some witnesses reported it to the authorities, and the Sanhedrin feared Jesus' growing popularity would provoke a Roman persecution upon the Jews. At the high priest Caiaphas' suggestion, they decided it was better for Jesus to die than for the nation to suffer.As high priest, Caiaphas spoke prophetically—even unknowingly—about Jesus' death, saying, “It is better for you that one man should die instead of the people, so that the whole nation may not perish” (John 11:49–50). Commenting on this, Saint Augustine teaches: “This passage shows that the Spirit of prophecy can even work through wicked people to reveal future events” (Tractate 49 on the Gospel of John).Knowing that God's omnipotent power can use even evil actions to accomplish His divine plan should console us when we encounter injustice or malice in our own lives. Jesus was never a victim of circumstance; He remained in full control of His mission. At His arrest, He reminded His disciples: “Do you think that I cannot call upon my Father, and He will not provide me at this moment with more than twelve legions of angels?” (Matthew 26:53).Jesus could have commanded the angels to overthrow the Sanhedrin and the Roman authorities, taking His place as an earthly king by force. But instead, He chose to submit to the Father's will, allowing the malice of Caiaphas to set His Passion in motion. Though Caiaphas acted with selfish intent, God, in His providence, used this evil act to advance His plan of salvation for all who would turn to Him in faith.This insight is essential as we enter the “Holy Weeks” of our lives—those times of trial, suffering, or injustice that we do not always fully understand. When we encounter crosses, it is easy to see them as obstacles to joy and peace. But Romans 8:28 reminds us: “All things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.” Every cross, injustice, or hardship is within God's providential care, just as Holy Week was. When we trust Him, even the evil we experience can be transformed into a path toward God's glory and for our good.Reflect today on the perfect wisdom of God's plan, which used even the sins of wicked people to bring about salvation. Consider any crosses, sufferings, or injustices you currently face. Instead of giving in to anger or despair, have faith that God can use them for good. If you remain in God's grace, trust that whatever He permits in your life is an expression of His almighty power and love, working all things for His glory and your good. Just as Jesus set His face toward Jerusalem, knowing that great suffering awaited Him, so too must we turn our eyes to our own “Jerusalem”—to the challenges and difficulties we encounter—and trust that God will work all things for good. All-powerful Lord, nothing deterred You from fulfilling Your Father's will. Your mission was to save many souls and to do so through the instrumentality of both the good and the wicked. Evil was conquered because You, in Your goodness, drew even greater good from it. Please help me to imitate You and to participate in Your glorious victory over sin and death by uniting every injustice and suffering I endure with Your Passion so as to achieve Your glory and victory in my life. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: The Judgment of the Sanhedrin: He is Guilty! by  Nikolai GeSource: 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/032526.cfmDeath appears to be the ultimate end for many, yet Jesus reveals a deeper truth that transforms our entire perspective on mortality. In the Gospel of John, we witness the raising of Lazarus, a powerful sign that death is not final for those who believe. Jesus declares Himself as the resurrection and the life, promising that whoever believes in Him will never truly die. This is not merely spiritual metaphor but eternal reality for the baptized Christian.Yet Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus, showing His profound compassion for human suffering. He understands our grief because He entered into it fully on the cross, carrying every cross we bear. The shortest verse in Scripture reveals the depth of Christ's humanity and His solidarity with those who mourn. However, the Lord weeps most deeply not over physical death, but over spiritual death—the loss of the soul through mortal sin.At Baptism, we were raised like Lazarus from spiritual death to new life in Christ. We became temples of God, filled with divine life. But when we commit grave sin with full knowledge and deliberate consent, we become spiritually dead again, like the dry bones Ezekiel saw in the field. The tragedy is not that we cannot return, but that we choose to remain bound by sin when Christ offers liberation.The Sacrament of Penance was instituted on Easter Sunday as a sign of this ongoing resurrection. Through Confession, we are untied from the bonds of Satan, sin, and death. Saint Augustine taught that the recreation of our souls through redemption is more majestic than the creation of the universe itself. Every confession is a personal resurrection, a chance to rise again in the Spirit of God.During Lent, the Church enters into a liturgical dying. The Alleluia is buried, flowers are removed, and statues are veiled. On Good Friday, even the Mass is taken from us. Yet from this complete emptiness, life shines through in Christ's Resurrection. We must enter this dying to self through penance, prayer, fasting, and the Sacraments to share in His glory.The “Catechism of the Catholic Church” reminds us that the Church will enter the kingdom only through this final Passover, following her Lord in death and resurrection. Before Christ's Second Coming, the Church must pass through trials that will shake the faith of many. We see confusion and scattering in our time, yet we must not let our faith be shaken. Like Lazarus, even when all seems lost, we can always have hope for resurrection. ★ Support this podcast ★

Today’s Topics: Joshua Charles joins Terry for Friday with the Fathers 1) Gospel – Luke 1:26-38 – The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin's name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give Him the throne of David His father, and He will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of His Kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the Child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Terry and Joshua discuss miracle stories of Early Father of the Church,  Saint Augustine

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

Pastor Ron and Pastor Chris sit down for a thoughtful conversation about what lies ahead for Saint Augustine Academy. Together, they reflect on why launching this school matters, how it serves our broader mission, and what it means for the life and future of our church community.

Exodus 5:1—6:1; Commentary on the psalms by Saint Augustine (4:34); Luke 13:22-33 (8:26); Homily by Rev. Mr. Jeffrey Pooley (11:18). Support our seminary: archden.org/futurepriests

Friends of the Rosary,Today's Today, the Third Sunday, the Catholic Church begins the second phase of Lent with the Gospel of “living water” (Jn 4:13-14): the intense dialogue of Jesus and the Samaritan woman, a foreigner from whom He asks a drink of water.Christ the Lord said to her, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”Pope Benedict XVI, recalling the great teaching of Saint Augustine, explained: “God thirsts for our faith and our love. As a good and merciful father, he wants our total, possible good, and this good is he himself.”“The Samaritan woman, on the other hand, represents the existential dissatisfaction of one who does not find what he seeks. She had “five husbands,” and now she lives with another man; her going to and from the well to draw water expresses a repetitive and resigned life. However, everything changes for her that day, thanks to the conversation with the Lord Jesus……” (Benedict XVI, Angelus 24 February 2008).Today'sAve Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• March 8, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Dr. Taylor Marshall breaks down the Catholic Doctrine of Just War Theory from Saint Augustine to Saint Thomas Aquinas and applies it to the current war with Iran. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Read OnlineAt that time Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. He fasted for forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was hungry. The tempter approached and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command that these stones become loaves of bread.” Matthew 4:1–3In His great humility and compassion for us, Jesus, the Incarnate Son of God, allowed Himself to endure something that we sinful human beings encounter every day—temptation. God's glorious plan from the beginning included the creation of both humans and pure spirits—angels—to form one glorious Kingdom of God. Original Sin, the fall of the angels, and our struggle against temptation were not part of God's original intention, but they became realities due to the misuse of free will, both by angels and by humans. Free will was necessary for both angels and humans to love God freely, which led to a third of the angels and many humans turning away from Him.Theologians such as Saint Thomas Aquinas and Saint Augustine offer profound insights into God's original plan for His Kingdom. In that plan, angels were believed to have been tasked with assisting humans in their journey toward perfection through enlightenment and contemplation. Some choirs of angels were tasked with the governance of the cosmos, guiding the physical world in harmony with God's will.Tragically, the fall of a third of the angels, along with the sin of our first parents, Adam and Eve, has resulted in a world filled with struggle and sin. The fallen angels—now demons—use their natural gifts to deceive, confuse, and tempt. Those who were once responsible for guiding the cosmos now seek to sow chaos, contributing to the existence of natural disasters, disease, and death. While Catholic angelology is speculative, based on a limited amount of biblical revelation, it is important to recognize the role of angels and demons as we enter this sacred season of Lent.Today's Gospel focuses on the activity of the most powerful fallen angel—satan, originally named Lucifer, meaning “Light-Bearer.” Tradition holds that he was among the highest of the angels, possibly a Seraphim. According to Saint Thomas Aquinas, Lucifer's fall resulted from pride: He desired to be a god unto himself, to create and govern according to his own will, refusing to serve God. This cosmic reality, of which both Jesus and satan were fully aware, sets the stage for and adds profound significance to their encounter in the desert.In this dramatic confrontation, Jesus, by allowing Himself to be tempted, begins the ultimate defeat of satan, a victory that will culminate in Jesus' Passion, Death, and Resurrection. This is the only recorded instance in which Jesus permits satan to tempt Him directly. While satan remained active throughout Jesus' ministry, seeking to disrupt His mission, this moment in the desert addresses temptation specifically. By rejecting each temptation, Jesus not only demonstrates how to overcome the devil but also empowers humanity with the grace needed to resist temptation through His triumph on the Cross.As we enter into the first full week of Lent, reflect today on the temptations you face in your own life. Though satan is powerful and highly intelligent, he is no match for the grace of God. By uniting ourselves to Christ, we are strengthened to resist all that satan and his demons throw at us. Victory over temptation is not achieved by our own strength but through Christ's grace, which He freely offers to all who turn to Him. My victorious Lord, You faced satan with courage, the once-beautiful angel who fell from grace through pride and envy. Now he seeks to destroy those whom You love. Give me Your strength and courage this Lent as I confront my own temptations, so that united with You, I may share in Your victory. Jesus, I trust in You.Image - Carl Heinrich Bloch - Jesus TemptedSource: 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.