Podcast appearances and mentions of saint paul

Friends of the Rosary,Today, August 27, the Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Monica (333-387), who, through prayer and tears, gave the great Augustine to the Church of God.We also celebrate today the feast of the Seven Joys of the Blessed Virgin Mary, or the Franciscan, and the feast of Mary, Health of the Sick.St. Monica prayed, endured, hoped, and trusted God for years, especially for the conversion of her son, Saint Augustine, one of her three children, as well as for Navigius and Perpetua, who later became a nun.At about the age of sixteen, Augustine fell in with bad companions and took a concubine. Monica greatly desired that her son become a Christian, and for this she labored long—praying, pleading, weeping.To her joy, Augustine was baptized in Milan by Saint Ambrose at the age of thirty-two. She died in Ostia in 387. Augustine praised God for his mother: “Graciously you heard her, and you did not despise her tears when they flowed down from her eyes and watered the earth beneath, in whatsoever place she prayed.”St Monica was born in Tagaste, northern Africa, and died in Ostia, near Rome. Monica was a Christian, but her husband Patricius was a pagan and a man of loose morals. Monica's virtues and prayers, however, converted him, and he was baptized a year before his death. When her son, Augustine, joined the Manichean sect and went astray in faith and morals, Monica's tears and prayers for her son were incessant. She followed him to Milan, where Augustine went to teach, and there continued to storm heaven with her prayers for her son.In today's readings from the Gospel, Saint Paul reminds the Corinthians that God has enriched them with grace and will keep them firm to the end. In parallel, Jesus tells His disciples to stay awake and be ready, like faithful servants waiting for their master. Ultimately, God asks us to stay awake in love, keep doing what is right, and trust His timing.We ask Lord Jesus to give us the patient faith of Saint Monica, helping us to stay awake in prayer, faithful in our duties, and steady in hope while we wait for His grace to bear fruit.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

Friends of the Rosary,Today, the memorial day of Saint Louis of France and Saint Joseph Calasanz, priest, we see in the Gospel (Matthew 23:23–26) how Jesus forcefully calls the Pharisees—and us—to change their hearts and behavior, and not to be trapped by the ego and its narrow concerns.When the Lord says, “Reform your life,” he means to move from that old mind and make him the center of your life.Also today, in his letter to the Thessalonians (2:1–3a, 14–17), Saint Paul says not to be shaken by rumors, fear, or confusion, but to “stand firm” in the faith. In the Gospel, Jesus warns against looking religious on the outside while neglecting mercy.Today's lesson is that God wants a clean heart, not just clean appearances. Faith is not panic, performance while missing love. It is standing firm in truth and letting mercy shape, avoiding distraction or fear.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• August 25, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

There is a proposal of a merger between the St. Paul and Minneapolis chambers and we discuss what effect this could have on Saint Paul, its rich history of businesses and economic independence with Jake Reint, former St. Paul Chamber board member and St. Paul resident joins to talk about this proposal!

There is a proposal of a merger between the St. Paul and Minneapolis chambers and we discuss what effect this could have on Saint Paul, its rich history of businesses and economic independence with Jake Reint, former St. Paul Chamber board member and St. Paul resident joins to talk about this proposal!

Learn the meanings of names you may have heard: monastery, basilica, cathedral, chapel, and more. Support us on Patreon for Member access to our special podcast series where we go in depth on books of the Bible. Ongoing season: Ecclesiastes. You will also gain access to the entire archive of Season 1: John, Season 2: Exodus, and Season 3: Hebrews Apply for Saint Paul's House of Formation Email us Music by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications Word & Table Episode Index

Thursday Thoughts kicks off your day for SDH AMJosh Walters, head women's soccer coach at James Madison, visits to talk about his program, its growth, and Soccer In SanfordWe look at the ATLUTD win in Saint Paul against the Loons with highlights and postmatch sound from Tristan Muyumba Nino Torres looks at South America copas, Portugal, and Jose MourinhoSounder at Heart/Pulso Sports Niko Moreno breaks down the west in MLS and the situation with Seattle and their freefallPlus, your transfer news and reports for Thursday

We have a history lesson with Lyndon B. Johnson and his summer pants, Colleen and Holly went to Catzen Coffee in Saint Paul and it's a delightful haven for cat and coffee lovers, and the filmmaker of "One Night Only" shares why Gen Z and Gen Alpha aren't interested in sex on screen. Jason takes Jenny Jones's biscuit recipe to task, Madonna leads this year's MTV VMA nominations and Jack Lowden might be the frontrunner for James Bond, AITA: For asking my friend to pay me back for dinner? And we have a beef with Minnesota's most popular soda is Diet Mountain Dew and we're kinda shocked!SCREEN QUEENS: Colleen is all about the new "A Different World" and Oasis documentary trailers, and Paramount explains the death of a "Dexter" spin-off. Plus, "Lanterns" and "Double Lives of Suburban Wives." Plus, we discuss the latest episode of "The Oprah Podcast" about generational differences. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A long-overdue episode all about the sacrament of Eucharist, or Holy Communion Support us on Patreon for Member access to our special podcast series where we go in depth on books of the Bible. Ongoing season: Ecclesiastes. You will also gain access to the entire archive of Season 1: John, Season 2: Exodus, and Season 3: Hebrews Apply for Saint Paul's House of Formation Email us Music by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications Word & Table Episode Index

Josh is in for DJ and has today's Quick Takes including a big concert announcement coming to Saint Paul, Drive In movies coming to Mall of America and much more! Then we jump into annoying words and phrases that we consume and maybe use too much!

Read OnlineMarriage and Divine UnionSome Pharisees approached Jesus, and tested him, saying, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any cause whatever?” He said in reply, “Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator made them male and female and said, For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, man must not separate.” Matthew 19:3–6In Jesus' time, divorce was a controversial and divisive issue. Two prominent schools of thought offered opposing views: The followers of Rabbi Hillel permitted divorce for trivial reasons, while the followers of Rabbi Shammai allowed it only for serious offenses. In today's Gospel, Jesus does not side with either group. Instead, He elevates the conversation by pointing back to God's original design for marriage, revealed at the beginning of creation.Jesus reminds us that God's intention for marriage is the permanent and sacred union of man and woman—a covenant, not merely a contract. When the two become “one flesh,” it is not only a physical union but also a spiritual and ontological reality: A new creation comes into being through the marital bond.Today, many people misunderstand the sacredness of marriage. Many marriages falter for a variety of reasons. This is partly because the ideal of marriage is demanding and requires deep personal sacrifice. True love—caritas, or charity—goes far beyond emotion and affection. It calls for the complete gift of self, radical selflessness, and unwavering commitment. When lived according to God's design, such love yields rewards that far surpass the trials it entails. But when relationships are clouded by selfishness, resentment, unforgiveness, or sin, they often unravel, leaving behind pain and regret.Saint Paul refers to marriage as “a great mystery,” likening it to the union between “Christ and the Church” (Ephesians 5:32). This is more than a metaphor; it is a theological truth. Every baptized person is called to be part of the Body of Christ and to share in the eternal Wedding Feast of the Lamb. The saints and mystics refer to this as “spiritual marriage”—the soul's union with Christ in Divine Love.The path to such divine union is rigorous. It demands the total gift of oneself to God. Every sin and attachment to sin must be stripped away by grace—and by our cooperation with that grace. This purifying journey prepares the soul for Mystical Marriage, a lasting and unbreakable union with God.Just as the heights of sanctity are reached only through great effort, so too is the perfection of marriage—or any relationship. This can feel daunting, but it should not lead to discouragement. Rather, it should inspire us with hope and resolve. Whether in marriage, friendship, or our relationship with God, we must pursue the ideal with zeal. Sanctity does not happen overnight, and neither do holy relationships. All require perseverance, humility, and grace.Jesus' teaching on marriage challenges us, but it is full of promise. It offers hope because it affirms that the grace needed to live this vocation comes as a gift from God in the Sacrament of Matrimony. For those called to marriage, and who receive and cooperate with this grace, the reward is nothing less than divine communion and eternal joy. To reach this end, we must transcend our natural limitations and rise above self-interest, fear, and the desire for comfort. This vocation requires a lifelong commitment to sacrificial love, fidelity, and perseverance, even amid trials and suffering.Reflect today on your vocation and how well you live the depth of love to which you are called. Whether you are married or celibate, trust in God's providence and resolve to live not by the standards of the world, but by the wisdom of the Kingdom of Heaven. Such a calling can only be fulfilled by grace and by hearts courageous enough to say “Yes” to that grace, day after day. Resolve to say “Yes,” and your reward will be great.My loving Lord, the charity that flows from Your Sacred Heart is pure and holy, radiating throughout Your entire Church. Draw me ever deeper into that love, so that I may receive You into my life and radiate Your love to others. Help me and all Your children to love You with all our hearts and to love one another, so that we may be perfectly united in You. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Scribes and Pharisees in the church, Iulian RosuSource: 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 this episode, we're joined by Dr. Nicholas Schaser, who is Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and the author of A Ransom for Israel: Jesus and Jewish Salvation in Matthew (published by SBL Press). In our conversation, we talk about christology and soteriology in Matthew, and how Dr. Schaser understands Matthew to be showcasing how Jesus secured salvation for ethnic Israel through the cross. Team members on the episode from The Two Cities include: Dr. John Anthony Dunne and Dr. Logan Williams. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the last several years, the Church has been focusing on “synodality.” But many Catholics are still unsure of what the term even means, as many Church documents on the topic tend to be bogged down by bureaucratic jargon. Carl Olson turns to the clear writings of St Paul to help cut through the mess.

Minneapolis City Council Member Robin Wonsley delivers a blunt message to property owners, want cops? Then get used to your property taxes climbing forever. Meanwhile, the new “homeless camp” in Saint Paul has turned into a full blown blight for the residents of Waterford Landing apartments. Plus, a golf cheating story you won't believe. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On January 18th, 2026, protestors marched into a church building in Saint Paul, Minnesota in the middle of the worship service. They began chanting and disrupting the space, forcing the church ushers to evacuate the children's wing and the congregation. The pastor of that church is Jonathan Parnell. Parnell also serves as the Send Network's City Missionary in the Twin Cities, where he works to encourage fellow pastors and train church planters. He is the author of Mercy for Today: A Daily Prayer from Psalm 51 (2020), Never Settle for Normal: The Proven Path to Significance and Happiness (2017) and coauthor of How to Stay Christian in Seminary (2014). A graduate of Bethlehem College and Seminary, he previously worked on the content team at desiringGod.org where he's written hundreds of articles over the years. He and his wife, Melissa, live in the Twin Cities with their eight children. For more information, visit https://www.jonathaneparnell.com/about TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction 1:00 How did you end up doing what you're doing today? 4:42 Tell us a little about church planting 8:08 How receptive is the population of Minneapolis to hearing the gospel? 10:44 Tell us about the ICE protests on January 18th 18:50 As a leader, what was the first thought going through your mind? What did the Spirit do in you in that moment? 24:40 How do you keep upper congregation from being distracted during the service as the protests continue? 29:30 Have you been able to engage with the protestors? 33:05 In hindsight, is there anything you would have done differently? Do you have any advice toward other pastors and leaders today?   Questions or comments? Email us at podcast@blackaby.org   DONATE: If you have enjoyed this podcast and want to support our ministry into the next 20 years, click here: https://bit.ly/382Exi3   RESOURCES: Desiring God website: https://www.desiringgod.org/   Order Experiencing God in Everyday Life now at: https://www.lifeway.com/en/product/experiencing-god-in-everyday-life-bible-study-book-with-video-access-P005853831   CONNECT: X: @richardblackaby Facebook: https://bit.ly/2WvZPzw Read Richard's latest blog posts at www.richardblackaby.com

Pianist Larry McDonough and guitarist Joel Shapira are interpreters of Bill Evans and Jim Hall. Larry and Joel have recorded two CDs of Evans and Hall material, and have played their interpretations in venues around the Twin Cities. Larry and Joel are doing it again, Sunday August 9, at the Arts on Lafond series, 1697 Lafond Avenue in Saint Paul. When Phil Nusbaum talked to Joel and Larry, Larry first explained how the slow, melancholic character of much of the Evans and Hall repertoire reflected their characters.

We dive deep into the realities of launching a solo practice, focusing on:The Power of Community: How Andy and his peers turned forced networking into a vibrant, informal monthly meetup that balances shop talk with genuine friendship.Entrepreneurial Lawyering: Why the "best days" in his practice have nothing to do with billable hours and everything to do with curiosity, human connection, and having zero ego.Hunting vs. Farming: How he approaches business development—balancing visibility with authentic relationship-building.The Listening Approach: Why success in estate planning isn't about selling documents; it's about reading people, building trust, and acting as a dedicated human advisor rather than a transaction-focused service provider.Join us for a conversation on de-optimizing the grind and rediscovering the "old school" value of being the family lawyer who actually cares about the family.About AndyAndy has been passionate about the law for many years. During an extended career with the federal government, he began pursuing his dream of becoming a practicing attorney. Andy graduated cum laude from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and served as an Associate on the Mitchell Hamline Law Review. He earned his bachelor's degree in business finance from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia.Andy's practice consists primarily of Estate Planning, Estate Administration, Wills and Trusts, and Conservatorships/Guardianships. In his estate planning, he works with individuals, couples, and families to develop comprehensive and efficient estate plans through wills, trusts, incapacity instruments, and other related documents. Andy also works with those suffering from the loss of a loved one to smoothly and cost-effectively navigate the administration of an estate through the probate system or by providing counsel to trustees.Additionally, his experience provides him with insights into the financial decisions, social work, and life care plans associated with guardianships and conservatorships. This background informs his personalized service and compassionate approach to family legal matters. Andy is professional yet approachable and is full of positive energy when it comes to helping his clients.A dedicated member of the legal community, Andy serves as a Governing Council Member of the Minnesota State Bar Association Probate & Trust Law Section. He is a recognized "North Star Lawyer," having donated over 50 hours of pro bono service annually to programs such as the Minnesota State Bar Association Wills for Heroes Program and the Probate Advice Clinic. Licensed in Minnesota and North Carolina, Andy lives in Minneapolis with his wife, Jessica, and their three cats. Outside the office, he enjoys running and bike rides.⁠https://www.andygregorylaw.com/

Are we responsible for the unintended consequences of an action? Support us on Patreon for Member access to our special podcast series where we go in depth on books of the Bible. Ongoing season: Ecclesiastes. You will also gain access to the entire archive of Season 1: John, Season 2: Exodus, and Season 3: Hebrews Apply for Saint Paul's House of Formation Email us Music by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications Word & Table Episode Index

Berlin clame haut et fort que son armée sera au service de l'Europe et de l'Otan, mais continue d'assumer sa dépendance aux États-Unis en y achetant l'essentiel de ses armes. En dépit du virage stratégique de Washington.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Breaking exclusive news out of St. Paul on the Mayor Kaohly Her / SPPD “Weiner Wednesday” saga. In this extra, we do a deep dive on the why behind the what bringing first hand evidence with first hand facts. If you are looking for a full cup on the political theater of Saint Paul, heres your shop.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Friends of the Rosary,Today's Sunday readings speak about God feeding His people. In the first reading (Isaiah 55:1-3), God invites everyone who is thirsty and hungry to come to Him. He offers what truly satisfies, not just food for the body, but for the soul. Many things promise to fill us, but only God can give peace that lasts.Saint Paul also gives a beautiful reminder (Romans 8:35, 37-39): nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. Not suffering, weakness, fear, or hardship. God's love is stronger than all of it.The Gospel (Matthew 14:13-21) shows Jesus feeding the five thousand. The disciples see the crowd and think only of the problem: too many people, too little food. Five loaves and two fish look small, but in the hands of the Lord they become enough.Our faith may feel small. Our patience may feel small. Our strength may feel small. But when we place it in Jesus' hands, He can multiply it.We bring Jesus what we have, even if it is small. He asks us to offer what we can, and let Him provide what is missing.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠August 2, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Saint Paul reminds us that the Church is God's building, founded on Jesus Christ alone, and that each of us is called to build our lives with materials that will endure. Drawing on St. John Chrysostom's homilies on this reading, this sermon explores how small acts of faithfulness—or neglect—shape the kind of people we are becoming. God's goal is not merely that we obey His commandments, but that, stone by stone, we become His holy temple, a dwelling place for His presence. Enjoy the show! --- Gold or Straw? Building a Life That Lasts I Corinthians 3:9-17 In today's Epistle, Saint Paul gives us two images. First, he says that we are God's building. Then he says something even more astonishing: we are God's temple. Those two images belong together. Buildings are not assembled all at once. They are built stone by stone, beam by beam, choice by choice. That is the Christian life. Notice that St. Paul does not say, "You are Paul's building," or "You are Apollos's building." He says, "You are God's building." Paul planted. Apollos watered. Others continued the work. But the Church belongs to God. That means the Church was never meant to gather around personalities, no matter how charismatic, convincing, or popular. It gathers around Christ. Then St. Paul says something even stronger: "No one can lay any other foundation than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ." Chrysostom piles image upon image from Scripture. Christ is the Head, and we are the Body. Christ is the Vine, and we are the branches. Christ is the Bridegroom, and we are the Bride. Christ is the Foundation, and we are the building. Every one of those images teaches the same thing: there can be no gap between Christ and us. Because he is remembered as such a great theologian, it is easy to forget that St. John Chrysostom was also a pastor who understood the daily struggles of his flock. In his homily on this Epistle, he shares a piece of deeply practical wisdom. We often think the greatest danger comes from great sins, but he warns us about little ones. Going back to the image of the building, a tiny crack in a wall becomes a collapsing building. A small tear in a garment becomes a ruined cloak. A branch cut off only a little while from the vine quickly withers. Small acts of neglect, if ignored, soon become great ones. That is why the spiritual life requires attention—not because God is keeping score, but because love is either growing or shrinking. Then Paul changes the image. Now he says every one of us is building with different materials. Some build with gold, silver, and precious stones. Others build with wood, hay, and straw. What does that mean? Chrysostom says he is talking about the life we build. Some habits endure forever—we carry both them and their fruits into the age to come. Others prove empty. They cannot withstand the testing fire. Patience, mercy, faithfulness, prayer, and truthfulness become like gold. Resentment, vanity, bitterness, and self-indulgence are straw. They may seem substantial now, but they cannot sustain us in this life, and they have no place in the life of the Kingdom. That raises an important question: what are we building today? Because we are always building something. Every conversation, every decision, every act of forgiveness, every refusal to forgive, every prayer, every excuse, every generous act, every selfish act—another stone is being laid, or another bundle of straw. Finally, Paul says, "Do you not know that you are God's temple?" Notice the progression. We begin as a building. We end as a temple. God is not constructing a monument. He is preparing a dwelling place. His purpose is not merely that we behave better. His purpose is that He Himself may dwell within us. That is why holiness matters—not because God needs better rule-keepers, but because God desires a home in the human heart. And that changes everything. We do not practice patience simply because patience is a rule. We practice patience because it prepares the heart to receive Christ. We forgive because resentment has no place in God's temple. We pray because prayer is how the living God is welcomed into His temple. We come to church week after week because God is still building us—stone by stone, prayer by prayer, act of repentance by act of repentance—until the building truly becomes what it was always intended to be: the dwelling place of the living God.  

The Moonlight Serenaders 14-lice big band has been around for decades. The group plays a free concert in Rice Park in Saint Paul, next Wednesday, August 5, 7 to 9pm. The group's current director, percussionist Dan Marrs, and former director and current trumpeter, Linda Ness, talked to Phil Nusbaum about the group. To a greater degree than much contemporary jazz, a big band relies on all the players reading what's been composed and arranged. So Phil asked Dan and Linda about keeping everybody focused on the arrangement.

La vague de migrants entrés illégalement en Espagne depuis le Maroc crispe ses voisins européens et constitue un premier test depuis l'entrée en vigueur, en juin, du nouveau pacte asile et migration.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Something happened with the Twins yesterday. I won't spoil it, but apparently it's the first time it's happened in the MLB in 40 years. And wouldn't you know it, Jimmy is in studio and was present for it. He's also the mayor of South Saint Paul, so he can weigh in on the hacking going on in Minnesota.Topics:The Twins had a historic play yesterdayMinnesota municipal water systems got hacked by what is apparently IranPearson closed down its Saint Paul factory

Its been the biggest news of the week - St. Paul Mayor Koahly Her in some hot water over some sexual harassment accusations and even more so - is in conflict with St Paul Police Cheif Axel Henry - we discuss why this is such a bad look as a leader and early in her time as mayor for Saint Paul!

Fr Blackburn dives into the Eight Chapter of Saint Paul's Epistle to the Romans.

Friends, on this Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, I want to focus on the Second Reading from Saint Paul's Letter to the Romans. The eighth chapter of Romans represents the culmination of an argument Paul's been making, and the reading for today is the rhetorical high point of that conclusion. This is the first great theologian of the Church naming what is essential to Christianity—so we have to pay attention!

Friends of the Rosary,The Lord, appearing in a dream to Solomon (as we learn today in the first reading), said to him:"Because you have asked not for a long life for yourself, nor for riches, nor for the life of your enemies, but for understanding so that you may know what is right—I do as you requested. I give you a heart so wise and understanding that there has never been anyone like you up to now."Health and wealth can easily be lost, but the union with God is everlasting.The human heart is wired to seek God — or to respond to His call. And faith is the “pearl of great price.”We are created to be conformed to the image of His Son—in all his glory.Without Him nothing has a firm foundation, nothing is wise or joyful.Saint Paul said in his letter to the Romans 8:28-30, "We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose."In Matthew 13:44-52, Jesus said to his disciples: “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.”Like the merchant, we get rid of everything that distracts us and acquire the field with the treasure of the faith.Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• ⁠June 26, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

What if prayer, fasting, confession, and Holy Communion are not assignments from a strict schoolmaster but the ordinary practices of life in our Father's house? Reflecting on Galatians 3:23–4:5, this homily invites us to see the Christian life as a journey from guardianship to sonship, from preparation to fulfillment, and from obedience to loving communion with God. --- Galatians 3:23-4:5 In today's Epistle, Saint Paul says something that has puzzled Christians for centuries. He tells us that "before faith came, we were kept under guard by the Law." Then he says that "the Law was our tutor"—our guardian—"until Christ came." That naturally raises a question. If Christ had to come, then why did God give the Law in the first place? Was the Law a mistake? Did Christ come to replace what God had already done? Not at all. Saint John Chrysostom says Paul isn't criticizing the Law. He's defending it. The Law accomplished exactly what God intended it to accomplish. The problem wasn't the Law. The problem was thinking that the Law was the destination instead of the journey. Perhaps an example will help. Imagine someone saying, "Elementary school is useless because you can't become a doctor unless you go to medical school." Well, of course you can't. But that doesn't make elementary school a failure. It was never meant to produce physicians. It was meant to teach you to read, to write, to count, to think, so that one day you could become something greater. You don't despise elementary school because you've graduated from it. You honor it because it accomplished exactly what it was designed to do: it prepared you for something greater. That is exactly what Saint Paul is saying. The Law was God's elementary school—or, as Paul says, the guardian who escorted His children until they were ready for Christ. It taught His people who He is. It taught them holiness. It taught them justice. It taught them mercy. It taught them that sin separates us from God. It taught them that sacrifice is necessary. It taught them to long for redemption. Every commandment, every sacrifice, every feast, every priest, every prophet was preparing Israel for Christ. The Law was never the destination. It was preparing God's people for the One who is. That's why Paul calls it a guardian. The Greek word is paidagōgos. It doesn't mean a classroom teacher. It refers to the trusted servant who escorted a child to school, watched over him, corrected him, and protected him until he became an adult. The guardian had an important job. But no loving parent intended for the child to remain under the protection of the guardian forever. The goal was maturity. That is exactly what God was doing with His people. The Law guarded Israel. It preserved them. It protected them from idolatry. It formed them into a people through whom the Messiah would come. And when Christ came, the time of preparation gave way to the time of fulfillment. That is why Paul goes on to say something astonishing. He does not merely say that Christ forgives us. He says that "God sent forth His Son... so that we might receive adoption as sons." Notice how much greater that is. God's purpose was never merely to produce well-behaved servants. His purpose is to raise sons and daughters. He doesn't simply pardon sinners. He adopts us as His children and welcomes us into His household. That is why the Christian life is so much more than rule-keeping. Rules can regulate behavior, but they cannot create love. They can restrain evil, but they cannot heal the heart. Only Christ can do that. Through the Holy Spirit, He writes God's Law upon the heart. Only the life of Christ dwelling within us can make us into the kind of people who naturally love what is good. This is why Orthodoxy speaks so often about salvation – theosis – as a process and a way of life. God's purpose is not simply to forgive sinners. His purpose is to unite us to Christ so completely that we begin to share His life. As Saint Athanasius famously said, "God became man so that man might become god"—not by nature, but by grace. That is what Saint Paul is describing. We are no longer merely subjects obeying a king. We are children living in our Father's house. And that changes how we understand the Christian life. Many people imagine Christianity as an endless list of religious obligations. Pray. Fast. Confess. Attend services. Receive Holy Communion. Read the Scriptures. Give alms. Sometimes it can even feel exhausting. But what if we've misunderstood all of it? What if these are not assignments given by a strict schoolmaster? What if they are the ordinary practices by which children grow into the likeness of their Father? A child becomes part of a family in a single moment. But learning to speak like the family, to think like the family, to love like the family, takes years. So it is with us. The moment we are united to Christ, we truly become God's children. But growing into that reality is the work of a lifetime. As we discussed last week, that is why we return to church week after week. Why we pray the same prayers. Why we fast. Why we confess. Why we receive the Holy Mysteries. Not because we are trying to earn God's love, but because we already have it. These are the ordinary means by which the Holy Spirit forms us into the people God created us to be. Again, little by little, almost without noticing it, our desires begin to change. The sins we once loved begin to lose their attraction. The virtues that once seemed difficult begin to bring joy. We become more patient, more merciful, more truthful, more generous—not simply because we are trying harder or following more rules [even Orthodox rules], but because Christ is living His life within us. But this also comes with a warning. It is possible to remain spiritually immature. It is possible to spend years in the Church and still prefer the security of the guardian to the intimacy of the Father's house; to imagine that God is keeping score instead of raising a family; to measure our faith by checking boxes rather than by growing in love. Saint Paul calls us beyond that. He calls us into maturity. Into sonship. Into freedom—not the freedom to do whatever we please, but the freedom to become what we were created to be. And if we were to keep reading beyond today's Epistle, Paul brings his argument to its beautiful conclusion. He says, "Because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!'" Abba. That is the goal. Not merely that we obey God. Not merely that we fear God. But that, in Christ, we know God as our Father, and by the Holy Spirit we begin to love Him with the very love of the Son Himself. That is the fulfillment toward which the Law was always pointing. That is the life into which Christ has brought us. So let us not become discouraged if the road sometimes seems long or the growth seems slow. No child becomes an adult overnight. Formation takes time. God is patient, and He is faithful. As Saint Paul says elsewhere, "Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, let us press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." For this is the good news of today's Epistle. The Law brought God's people to Christ. Christ brings us to the Father. And the Holy Spirit patiently raises us into the mature sons and daughters we were created to become. That is the Christian life—not merely obeying God's commandments from the outside, but gradually becoming the kind of people in whom those commandments are fulfilled by the life of Christ Himself, until we can truly call upon God with confidence and joy, "Abba, Father."

The Kendra Glenn band and Ace Mack collaborate for the Funk Extravaganza at the Minnesota Music Cafe in Saint Paul, 8pm on Friday July 31. It'll be an evening of great singing, with a tight band performance, and of course, dancing. Phil Nusbaum talked with Ace and Kendra about the show. The group enjoys covering Aretha Franklin, whose songs leaned in the direction of funk.

We can hardly believe that it's been 5 Years since MYRIEL opened on Cleveland Avenue in Saint Paul, Chef Karyn Tomlinson joins us to celebrate.And while we talk birthdays, Stephanie shares her best birthday cake ideas. Plus summer berries are at peak season right now, what are we doing with these beauties?We have some great boxed cake hacks, we talk Coney's Candies & Tony The Movie is coming out. And we'll beat the heat with our latest favorite ice cream gadget. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

An introduction to the book of Ecclesiastes and its peculiar but essential message about the meaning of human life (and the lack thereof).  Support us on Patreon for Member access to our special podcast series where we go in depth on books of the Bible. Ongoing season: Ecclesiastes. You will also gain access to the entire archive of Season 1: John, Season 2: Exodus, and Season 3: Hebrews Apply for Saint Paul's House of Formation Email us Music by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications Word & Table Episode Index

“What is schism and heresy?” These concepts are explored alongside questions about the nature of sin and forgiveness, including how a priest forgives sins. The discussion also touches on the implications of making a slasher movie, the fate of souls after death, and the role of guardian angels, providing a comprehensive look at these important topics. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:15 – What is Schism and Heresy? 18:23 – Is it objective grave matter to make a slasher movie? 30:30 – How does it work for a priest to forgive sins? 32:35 – My atheist friend is asking where are people who have died? If Christ hasn't come to judge yet then they couldn't be in heaven or hell. 38:30 – Would it be a stretch to say that Saint Paul might have wrote the first few chapters of Hebrews, with one of his followers finishing it after he was executed? 46:15 – What happens to your guardian angel when you die? 49:13 – Why do Catholics believe in no divorce when Jesus says that there is an exception for sexual immorality?

At long last, we focus solely on the sacrament of Baptism, its components, effects, and why it is normative for salvation. Support us on Patreon for Member access to our special podcast series where we go in depth on books of the Bible. Ongoing season: Ecclesiastes. You will also gain access to the entire archive of Season 1: John, Season 2: Exodus, and Season 3: Hebrews Apply for Saint Paul's House of Formation Email us Music by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications Word & Table Episode Index

Saint Paul tells us.....

Joan Hutton and Sue Orfield's Take That Back Releases new CD called Splash and performs at Metronome in Saint Paul, Monday night July 20. Uncommon as it is in small group jazz for a band to be led by two saxes, Take That Back has made a distinct impression in the jazz community. The new Take That Back CD is called Splash, and the group performs 7 to 9 pm, Monday July 20 at Metronome in Saint Paul. When Joan Hutton talked to Phil Nusbaum about Take That Back, she first addressed how the group started.

From Grace to Greater Grace Romans 12:6-14 Every Christian has received gifts from God, but discernment begins not with extraordinary revelations, but with a quiet heart that learns to recognize where God is already at work. Drawing on St. John Chrysostom's image of the vessel, this homily explores how repentance, prayer, humility, and faithful cooperation with God's grace enlarge our capacity to receive His life. The goal of the Christian life is not to envy another's calling but to become fully ourselves in Christ, growing "from grace to greater grace, from love to deeper love."  Enjoy the show! --- In today's Epistle, Saint Paul says something both wonderfully encouraging and deeply challenging. He reminds us that every one of us has received gifts from God. No one here has been overlooked. No one is unnecessary. The Holy Spirit has given each of us something through which He intends to build up the Body of Christ. But that immediately raises a question. How do we know what our gift is? Sometimes we imagine that discernment means waiting for a lightning bolt from heaven. We think that one day God will suddenly reveal exactly what He wants us to do. Usually, that's not how it works. More often, discernment grows out of a life that has already become quiet enough to hear God. Part of your discernment is simply paying attention. What has God placed in your life? What opportunities has He given you? What needs has He placed before you? What abilities has He entrusted to you? Those are often the first clues to discovering your vocation. Discernment isn't first about discovering a career or even a ministry. It is learning to recognize where God is already at work and joining Him there. Saint John Chrysostom has a beautiful insight here. He says that Saint Paul is careful to preserve two truths at the same time. First, every gift is truly a gift. If someone has the gift of teaching, or leadership, or generosity, or mercy, there is no room for pride because none of us manufactured these gifts ourselves. They have all been entrusted to us by God. But Chrysostom also says there is no room for laziness. He uses the image of a vessel. God pours out His grace generously, but the amount a vessel can receive depends upon its capacity. The larger the vessel, the more it can hold. The more the vessel has been enlarged through faith and repentance, the more room there is for God's grace to work. That means our task is not to envy someone else's gift. Our task is to enlarge the vessel. Notice what Paul doesn't say. He doesn't tell us to manufacture the grace. He tells us to become capable of receiving it. I was reminded of that recently while traveling in Italy. Everywhere we went, coffee was served in those little espresso cups. Perfectly fine for espresso—but after a few days I found myself missing my big American coffee mug! A larger vessel simply holds more. But then it occurred to me that size isn't the only thing that matters. A large cup that is full of old coffee grounds, grime, or yesterday's leftovers still can't receive fresh coffee. Before it can be filled, it has to be cleaned. The same is true of us. God is always pouring out His grace. The question isn't whether He is willing to give it. The question is whether we have made room to receive it. Repentance cleans out the vessel, and the spiritual life enlarges it. How do we do that? By repentance. By prayer. By worship. By humility. By learning to quiet the passions that so often drown out the voice of God. This is why the spiritual life is so important. Before we can use our gifts well, we must become the kind of people who can receive and exercise them wisely. And that requires stillness. We live in a noisy world. There are constant opinions, constant distractions, constant arguments, constant anxieties. Every day someone tells us what we should fear, what we should desire, what we should be angry about. It becomes very difficult to hear God when every other voice is shouting. One of the greatest acts of spiritual discipline is simply learning to become quiet. Not merely quiet on the outside. Quiet on the inside. Quiet enough that we stop reacting to every impulse. Quiet enough that we stop needing to prove ourselves. Quiet enough that we can finally listen. Only a quiet heart can recognize the gentle movements of the Holy Spirit. There is another temptation, and it's a subtle one. Because we rightly confess God's grace, we can begin to think that our role is simply to wait. "If God wants me to become holy," we tell ourselves, "He'll make it happen." But Saint John Chrysostom won't let us think that way. Grace is always God's gift. But he reminds us that the beginning lies with us. We enlarge the vessel. We exercise the gift. We practice the virtues. We pray. We repent. We forgive. We become faithful in the little things. God supplies the grace, but He does not bypass our freedom. He invites our cooperation. And our cooperation is required because the command is to love God and our neighbor, and love requires action. This is what the Fathers mean when they speak of synergy—not that we earn God's grace, but that we freely cooperate with it. And that finally brings us to trust. So much of our anxiety comes from believing that everything depends on us. What if I make the wrong decision? What if I miss my calling? What if I should be doing something else? But those are the wrong questions. The right questions are much simpler. Am I becoming faithful? Am I becoming humble? Am I becoming the kind of person who can receive what God wants to give? Because if the answer to those questions is yes, then God is perfectly capable of directing your life. As we look through the Scriptures, one thing becomes obvious. God has never had trouble finding capable people. Egypt had capable people. Babylon had capable people. Rome had capable people. Finding competent men and women has never been God's problem. What God delights in finding are hearts that are willing to trust Him. Hearts humble enough to learn. Hearts faithful in the little things, day after day. Hearts open to receiving His grace. That's why comparing ourselves with other people is such a waste of time. God isn't asking you to become someone else. He's asking you to become fully yourself in Christ. So don't spend your life wishing you had someone else's gift or someone else's job. Don't imagine that if only you could preach like this person, sing like that person, organize like someone else, then God could finally use you. That isn't His question. His question is: What have I already entrusted to you? And what kind of vessel are you becoming? Are you enlarging it through prayer? Through repentance? Through trust? Through love? The saints were not people who received different grace from us. They simply spent a lifetime enlarging the vessel because God delights in filling every vessel that is offered to Him. God has already given you everything you need for today's obedience. Just look around you. There is no shortage of opportunities to love. There is no shortage of people who need encouragement. No shortage of burdens to help carry. No shortage of prayers to offer. No shortage of forgiveness to extend. The opportunities to love are already waiting for us. And here's the beautiful thing: as we are faithful in these little things, God enlarges the vessel. He entrusts us with more—not because He needs more accomplished, but because He is teaching us to love more deeply. That's the joy of the Christian life. God is not merely giving us work to do. He is forming us into the kind of people who can love as Christ loves. Every act of obedience, every quiet prayer, every burden we help carry, every hidden act of mercy is one more way that the Holy Spirit shapes us, little by little, into the likeness of Christ. And that is the greatest gift and the highest calling of all. In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Karen Swallow Prior, the 2025–2026 Karlson Scholar at Bethel Seminary in Saint Paul, Minnesota, and the author of several books, including You Have a Calling: Finding Your Vocation in the True, Good, and Beautiful (Brazos). Over the course of our conversation, we talk about the difference between passion and calling, and how pursuing the transcendentals of the true, good, and the beautiful is the best framework for reconceiving what our callings actually are. Team members on the episode from The Two Cities include: Dr. John Anthony Dunne, Stanley Ng, Rev. Daniel Parham, and Dr. Sydney Tooth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do people actually receive Holy Communion once it has been consecrated? Support us on Patreon for Member access to our special podcast series where we go in depth on books of the Bible. Ongoing season: Hebrews. You will also gain access to the entire archive of Season 1: The Gospel of John and Season 2: The Book of Exodus Apply for Saint Paul's House of Formation Email us Music by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications Word & Table Episode Index

The United States is hosting the World Cup soccer tournament, but Minnesota is not a host city. So instead, fans are flocking to bars and breweries. And new data from the payment company Square found bars and breweries saw an 8 percent increase in revenue, and that was just during the first round of the tournament. Wes Burdine, owner of the Black Hart of Saint Paul, a LGBTQ+ soccer bar, joined Minnesota Now host Nina Moini to talk about the economic moment brought by the World Cup.

Send us Fan MailA doctor with steady hands discovers that the deepest wounds in his city are not physical, they're spiritual. Saint Anthony Zacaria begins as a promising physician in Cremona, but his hunger to serve Christ pulls him into the priesthood and into the heart of Catholic renewal in 16th century Italy. We walk through the defining moments of his life, from early formation and charity to the radical decision to trade prestige for the Gospel.We also explore the world that shaped his mission: a Renaissance culture full of brilliance and upheaval, where many believers feel worn down by routine and scandal. Anthony's answer is strikingly personal. He calls for repentance, deeper prayer, and a return to the sacraments, not as a program but as a way of life. That vision becomes concrete through the Barnabites, the Angelic Sisters of Saint Paul, and committed lay partners who bring evangelization into streets, homes, and hospitals, showing that holiness belongs to everyone.Everything culminates in his enduring Eucharistic legacy: the Forty Hours Devotion and a renewed love for the Blessed Sacrament. We unpack what the devotion is, why forty hours matters, and how Eucharistic adoration can move a parish from spiritual fatigue to real conversion. If you're longing for a clearer prayer life, a stronger Catholic identity, or a practical path to renewal, this story gives you one. Subscribe, share this with a friend, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.Open 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 ...

Full Text of Readings Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 100 The Saint of the day is Saint Anthony Zaccaria Saint Anthony Zaccaria's Story At the same time that Martin Luther was attacking abuses in the Church, a reformation within the Church was already being attempted. Among the early movers of the Counter-Reformation was Anthony Zaccaria. His mother became a widow at 18, and devoted herself to the spiritual education of her son. He received a medical doctorate at 22, and while working among the poor of his native Cremona in Italy, was attracted to the religious apostolate. Anthony Zaccaria renounced his rights to any future inheritance, worked as a catechist, and was ordained a priest at the age of 26. Called to Milan in a few years, he laid the foundations of three religious congregations, one for men, one for women, and an association of married couples. Their aim was the reform of the decadent society of their day, beginning with the clergy, religious, and lay people. Greatly inspired by Saint Paul—his congregation is named the Barnabites, after the companion of that saint—Anthony preached with great vigor in church and street, conducted popular missions, and was not ashamed of doing public penance. Anthony Zaccaria encouraged such innovations as the collaboration of the laity in the apostolate, frequent Communion, the Forty Hours devotion, and the ringing of church bells at 3:00 p.m. on Fridays. His holiness moved many to reform their lives, but as with all saints, it also moved many to oppose him. Twice his community had to undergo official religious investigation, and twice it was exonerated. While on a mission of peace, Anthony became seriously ill and was brought home for a visit to his mother. He died at Cremona at the age of 36. Reflection The austerity of Anthony Zaccaria's spirituality and the Pauline ardor of his preaching would probably “turn off” many people today. When even some psychiatrists complain at the lack of a sense of sin, it may be time to tell ourselves that not all evil is explained by emotional disorder, subconscious and unconscious drives, parental influence, and so on. The old-time “hell and damnation” mission sermons have given way to positive, encouraging, biblical homilies. We do indeed need assurance of forgiveness, relief from existential anxiety, and future shock. But we still need prophets to stand up and tell us, “If we say ‘We are without sin,' we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Had the chance to talk to Ken Schaefer, President of the Saint Paul Rotary Club joins Jason to preview the return of the fireworks in Saint Paul in part due to the Rotary Club piecing enough together to make it happen! He shares more on this event and how Saint Paul was able to bring back this Fourth of July tradition!

We are ramping up to the Fourth of July and we begin and start with a bang! Beginning with why Minnesota is protecting a convicted predator through a pardon, Ken Schaefer joins as Saint Paul is bringing the fireworks back, Christine Noonan with the Minnesota State Fair on 50 Years of the Blue Ribbon Recipes, some of your 4th of July recommendations. Then final hour - we weigh in on whether fireworks should become legal and Sean McPherson on the Top Hot Dogs and more in the Twin Cities!

Learn the schools and terms of the science of Christian Moral Theology: examining human behavior and making ethical decisions in the light of God's revelation through Jesus Christ. Support us on Patreon for Member access to our special podcast series where we go in depth on books of the Bible. Ongoing season: Hebrews. You will also gain access to the entire archive of Season 1: The Gospel of John and Season 2: The Book of Exodus Apply for Saint Paul's House of Formation Email us Music by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications Word & Table Episode Index

Full Text of Readings We couldn't findthis page. The Saint of the day is First Martyrs of the Church of Rome First Martyrs of the Church of Rome's Story There were Christians in Rome within a dozen or so years after the death of Jesus, though they were not the converts of the “Apostle of the Gentiles” (Romans 15:20). Saint Paul had not yet visited them at the time he wrote his great letter in 57-58 A.D. There was a large Jewish population in Rome. Probably as a result of controversy between Jews and Jewish Christians, the Emperor Claudius expelled all Jews from Rome in 49-50 A.D. Suetonius the historian says that the expulsion was due to disturbances in the city “caused by the certain Chrestus” [Christ]. Perhaps many came back after Claudius' death in 54 A.D. Paul's letter was addressed to a Church with members from Jewish and Gentile backgrounds. In July of 64 A.D., more than half of Rome was destroyed by fire. Rumor blamed the tragedy on Nero, who wanted to enlarge his palace. He shifted the blame by accusing the Christians. According to the historian Tacitus, many Christians were put to death because of their “hatred of the human race.” Peter and Paul were probably among the victims. Threatened by an army revolt and condemned to death by the senate, Nero committed suicide in 68 A.D. at the age of 31. Reflection Wherever the Good News of Jesus was preached, it met the same opposition as Jesus did, and many of those who began to follow him shared his suffering and death. But no human force could stop the power of the Spirit unleashed upon the world. The blood of martyrs has always been, and will always be, the seed of Christians.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Read Online“Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my heavenly Father. And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:17–19Though the Church will suffer in many ways, She will ultimately overcome all things. As we celebrate the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, we are reminded of this truth by pondering their lives as two of the greatest pillars of the Church. Neither imprisonments, persecutions, nor apparent defeats kept them from fulfilling the mission God gave them. Likewise, the Church will never be overcome, for She remains under the guardianship of divine providence.The Church shall prevail for one simple reason: Jesus said so. He founded the Church upon the Twelve Apostles, giving unique and supreme authority to Peter: “I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Though Peter's given name was Simon, Jesus changed it to Peter—Petros in Greek and Cephas in Aramaic. Both terms can be used as a man's name but also mean “rock.” Hence, Peter, and the Apostles in union with him, become the rock and immovable foundation upon which the Church is built.By giving Peter “the keys to the Kingdom of heaven,” Jesus granted him singular authority to teach, govern, and sanctify with divine authority. This authority did not end with Peter; it is passed on to his successors through the office of bishop. Since Peter died in Rome, Rome remains the see of the Church's divinely established governance.Though Peter offers the Church the stability and clarity necessary as the immovable rock foundation, Paul reflects the Church's missionary role to bring the Gospel to the ends of the earth. This is seen especially in today's second reading, where Paul, facing the end of his earthly life, proclaims that he has “competed well,” “finished the race,” and “kept the faith.” His life was poured out as a libation for Christ, tirelessly laboring to make the Gospel known to all nations. While Peter ensures the Church's unity and fidelity to divine truth, Paul embodies her zeal to spread that truth to every corner of the world, calling all people into communion with Christ and His Church.Peter and Paul remain spiritually alive and active today through the unbroken tradition God established through them. Often at World Youth Day, when the Holy Father is present, young people chant, “You are Peter!” It is a beautiful expression of their faith in this foundational truth Christ established. Though every pope is a sinner like the rest of humanity, faith leads us to look beyond human weakness to see the successor of Saint Peter, the solid rock to whom Christ entrusted the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. Thus, Peter's mission remains alive today, not only in the person of the Holy Father, but also in our faith in his divinely given authority.Saint Paul remains alive today through the ongoing fulfillment of the mission God gave him. His burning zeal to proclaim the Gospel lives on in every missionary endeavor, every act of evangelization, and every effort to spread the Good News to the ends of the earth. His spirit is especially present in those who courageously preach the Word, catechize the young, defend the faith, and labor tirelessly for the salvation of souls. Just as Peter ensures unity and fidelity, Paul inspires action and outreach, so that the Church may extend Christ's Kingdom to every land and heart.Reflect today on these pillars of the Church and acknowledge the living witness they gave and continue to give. Renew your faith in Peter, alive in the Holy Father, professing him as the rock foundation. See Paul at work by recognizing the missionary activity of the Church, carried out by countless souls with zeal and courage. Allow their witness to inspire within you a deeper love for the Church, and commit yourself anew to the mission entrusted to you: to remain firmly rooted in the truth and to bring that truth to the world with boldness and charity.Saints Peter and Paul, God called you in powerful and unique ways, making you pillars of the Church. Please pray for us, and for the entire Church, that we may continue the mission Christ entrusted to you. I especially entrust myself to that mission and pray that I may remain faithful to it in imitation of your example. Saints Peter and Paul, pray for us. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Saint Peter & Saint Paul by Lawrence OP, 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.

Live Nation has provided an update on the cancellation of The Dave Matthews Band concert earlier this week, the joy of a long-term friend group, and a deadly heat wave is sweeping Europe. Plus, The New York Times reports on the Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce wedding-- all signs point that it IS happening at Madison Square Garden and a Lionel Richie health scare in Saint Paul. 7 Brew Quest at 7: Holly's sister, Jess and her family see how long it takes to get through the new 7 Brew drive-thru in Apple Valley! And we talk to you about your love for the beverage chain. FIX MY LIFE: Bridget has a chatty neighbor, but she wants her her morning peace -- what should she do? SCREEN QUEENS: "Voicemails for Isabelle," "I Will Find You," and "America's Sweethearts." We revisit the 7 Brew concept and why it's so popular, breaking Timberwolves news: Naz Reid traded, Colleen is still miffed about Live Nation's cancellation of The Dave Matthews Band concert, and a Lionel Richie health update. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Read Online“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,' will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name? Did we not drive out demons in your name? Did we not do mighty deeds in your name?' Then I will declare to them solemnly, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you evildoers.'” Matthew 7:21–23Jesus' words are shocking because they challenge the assumption that prophesying, casting out demons, and performing mighty works in His name guarantee entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven. However, mighty works without obedience and love are insufficient. The passage warns against a distorted discipleship that promotes our own will rather than relying on the interior conversion required to do the will of the Father.Saint Paul echoes this truth: “And if I have the gift of prophecy and comprehend all mysteries and all knowledge; if I have all faith so as to move mountains but do not have love, I am nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:2). Even the most extraordinary spiritual gifts—prophecy, knowledge, and faith to move mountains—are worthless unless they are animated by the infused virtue of charity, the love that comes from God and enables us to act according to His will.Jesus' warning is particularly relevant to those who bear responsibility for preaching, teaching, or guiding others in the faith. Those who work in God's name can sometimes act according to their own will rather than His. At times, even devout Christians fail to be authentic instruments of God's pure and perfect will, mistaking their own judgments or desires for His divine guidance.It is essential that everyone who claims to follow Christ regularly reflect on Jesus' words. He did not teach this lesson as a mere theoretical warning but because He knew that many of His followers would need it. This passage is not meant to encourage us to judge others within the Church, presuming to identify those who fit His description. Rather, it is a personal exhortation meant for each of us. Jesus preaches these words so that we might examine our own hearts, asking whether we truly seek to do the Father's will or merely profess faith in name alone.As a source of self-reflection, consider the words “Lord, Lord.” If you use those words—if you pray and call on God as the Lord of your life—that is a good start; but it is only a start. Many people struggle even to reach that personal level of prayer and attentiveness to God.Presuming you do pray, how do you pray? Do you list for God the many things you do for Him, expecting Him to be impressed? Do you prophesy in God's name, meaning you speak about Him to others? Do you cast out demons in God's name, meaning you combat satan and all evil? Do you do mighty deeds in God's name, meaning you engage in works that reflect Christian discipleship?If so, that is good—but based on today's Gospel, it is not enough. According to our Lord, some who answer “Yes” to those questions will hear at the time of their judgment: “I never knew you. Depart from me, you evildoers.”Reflect today on Jesus' challenging call to listen clearly to His voice alone and then act in accord with His will. Doing so requires us to set aside our own agenda and preconceived notions of what God wants. Serving Christ is not a matter of doing Him favors for which He will be grateful. It's a matter of unwavering obedience by which we do God's will alone—nothing less, nothing more, and nothing other. Heed Jesus' challenge and reexamine how you serve Him. Listen first, then act on what you hear. Doing so will guarantee that your life is built on a solid rock foundation of the faith that leads to the divine gift of charity.My demanding and just Lord, flood my mind with Your Word, that I may know Your ways. As I listen to Your voice, grant me the courage to act on all You say, never seeking my own will but Yours alone. Use me as You will for Your glory and make me obedient to Your Word, that my life may be built upon the solid foundation of faith and love. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Jesus teaches, by JaroslavSource: 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.

Read OnlineJesus said to his disciples: “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces.” Matthew 7:6Today's Gospel contains one of Christ's more difficult teachings. At first glance, His words seem harsh. Yet they reveal a profound truth: the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven require a heart properly disposed to receive them. Divine truths are not to be offered indiscriminately, especially to those who would treat them with scorn or hostility. Faith is essential to receive and understand the deeper mysteries of God. Jesus expressed a similar principle at the Last Supper when He told the Twelve: “I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth” (John 16:12–13).Though Jesus, as the eternal Word of God, possessed perfect and complete knowledge of divine truth, He did not reveal everything to His disciples all at once. Had He done so, they might have been overwhelmed. Even His closest followers often struggled to grasp His teachings, misunderstanding His words and resisting difficult truths. Yet Christ unveils the mysteries of His Kingdom gradually, according to each person's ability to receive them.The divine mysteries are so deep, vast, and profound that we will only fully comprehend them when we behold God face to face in the Beatific Vision. Until then, His deeper truths remain veiled. This does not mean we should cease seeking them; rather, as we grow in faith and knowledge of God, He lifts the veil little by little, drawing us closer to Himself. As we progress in holiness, He perfects within us the spiritual Gift of Wisdom, which ultimately deepens our love for Him.The pearls Jesus refers to symbolize these divine mysteries—treasures of divine Wisdom that must be sought, cherished, and received with reverence. This principle of gradual revelation is also seen in the ministry of Saint Paul. After his dramatic conversion, Paul received extraordinary spiritual insights, yet he recognized that his listeners were not always ready for the fullness of divine teaching. To the Corinthians, he wrote: “Brothers, I could not talk to you as spiritual people, but as fleshly people, as infants in Christ. I fed you milk, not solid food, because you were unable to take it” (1 Corinthians 3:1–2).Like Saint Paul, when God grants us glimpses of His divine Wisdom, we must treasure these revelations, ponder them in faith, and allow Him to deepen His communication with us. At the same time, as we share our faith with others, we must be mindful of their openness and capacity to receive what is holy—the pearls of divine truth. Though the saving message of the Gospel must be preached to all, the deepest mysteries are attained only through prayer and an interior receptivity to grace.When Jesus warns, “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine…”, He is not discouraging evangelization. Rather, He is teaching us that not everyone is immediately receptive to the hidden mysteries of the Gospel. Some might reject it outright, treat it with indifference, or even respond with hostility. Thus, just as Saint Paul recognized the need to nourish spiritual infants with milk, not solid food, we too must exercise prudence in sharing the deepest divine truths, ensuring that they are offered in a way that hearts are prepared to receive. Reflect today on your own openness to God's eternal truth. Are you like an infant in need of spiritual milk? If so, drink that milk eagerly, allowing it to nourish your soul. As you mature in faith, devote more time to prayerful contemplation of God's Word, seeking His wisdom with a receptive heart. If God entrusts you with the role of feeding others, do so with love and gentleness, discerning the pearls God wants you to share. Only by first being receptive ourselves will we be prepared to be the instruments and evangelists that God calls us to be. Lord of Eternal Wisdom, the mysteries of faith are vast and beyond my comprehension without Your grace. Draw me ever closer to You, unveiling Your hidden presence and the precious pearls of Your Truth. Deepen my understanding, that I may ponder Your mysteries with a receptive heart. As I grow in faith, use me as You will to nourish others according to their need, leading them ever deeper into Your divine Wisdom. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Our Eucharistic Lord, by Lawrence OP, 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.