Podcasts about Solemnity

Episode 1042 (17:09) In this episode: Online social media isn't how we can truly get to know someone; What is need is an in-person encounter with the person. The same is true with Jesus. How can we come to know Jesus? Who do I say he is? How do I proclaim that truth? Episode 1041 (16:11) In this episode: Dcn. Brett Edmonson preaches; Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary; Mary was a beautiful person due to her grace from God; Beauty wounds only to awakens us; Beauty captivates us; God is Beauty, Truth, and Goodness itself. All beautiful things draw us to God; Dostoevsky wrote that Beauty will save the world; Let us be open to God's beauty and therein encounter Him. Music: "Answering With Our Lives" (Lyrics & music generated by AI: Chat GPT and Suno.com) Audio Produced on Logic Pro Music: Suno.com Artwork: ChatGPT Related Web Sites:  My Website Podcast Page All Previous Episodes

Celebrated annually on August 22, the eighth day (the octave) after the Solemnity of the Assumption (August 15), the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary is an official liturgical feast day linking Mary's bodily assumption into heaven with her coronation as queen. Established in 1954 by Pope Pius XII, the day honors Mary as the Mother of Jesus, designated by Christians as the King of Kings, and recognizes her unique role and spiritual intercession in heaven and earth. Chapter 12 from the Book of Revelation describes a "woman clothed with the sun" who gives birth to a male child, which some Christian interpreters view as a symbolic representation of Mary crowned in heavenly glory, thereby providing biblical foundation and support for the Queenship of Mary. Chapter-A-Day Audio Bible available at https://amzn.to/4i2XdlE John Stange books available at https://amzn.to/41DS9hRMV Book of Revelation available at https://amzn.to/3TY8nkw Historical Jesus books available at https://amzn.to/43rnYbq ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Bible Audio narration (WordProject, International Biblical Association); Chapter-A-Day Audio Bible podcast with John Stange (LifeAudio Podcast Network, Salem Web Network). Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mary teaches us the way to heaven…not by doing more, but by listening, trusting, and receiving Jesus.

Dr. Tom Curran asks Fr. Kurt Nagel: Why doesn't the church expect Catholics to attend Mass when a Holy Day falls on a Saturday? What's special about the role of Queen Mother? What are admirable pursuits? Today's hosts reflect on the Feast of St. Maximilian Kolbe and the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary by Dr. Scott Hahn. Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Solemnity – Day First Reading: Revelation 11: 19a; 12: 1-6a, 10ab Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 45: 10, 11, 12, 16 Second Reading: First Corinthians 15: 20-27 Gospel: Luke 1: 39-56   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com

Fr. Patrick preached this homily on August 15, 2026. The readings are from Revelation 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab, Psalm 45:10, 11, 12, 16, 1 Corinthians 15:20-27, Luke 1:39-56 (Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary). Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SlakingThirsts/

Original Post Date: August 15, 2024 === Gospel Luke 1:39-56 Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, and has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children forever.” Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home. Reflection There are many things that God has done that are shocking to humanity, and certainly one of them is choosing a woman and saying that I need you.. God needs you to help him create a human slash divine figure that will be the model for the world of who we are to become. It's an incredible privilege. But even more than that, it is an incredible way of imagining the dignity that Jesus is engaged us in. He's not going to save us alone. He's only going to save us through one another. Closing Prayer Father, the dignity that God wants us to have about the way in which he has created us to be a part of saving the world, establishing the kingdom. Keep us always engaged in that excitement and enthusiasm for what he is doing with, for us, through us. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friends of the Rosary,Today, August 15, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which honors the Christian belief that the Virgin Mary was taken body and soul into heavenly glory at the end of her earthly life.Assumed into heaven, Mary reveals our own destiny.Pope Benedict XVI wrote, “Precisely because Mary is with God and in God, she is very close to each one of us. While she lived on Earth, she could be close to only a few people. Being in God, who is actually within all of us, Mary shares in this closeness of God.”She “knows our hearts, can hear our prayers, can help us with her motherly kindness. She always listens to us, and, being Mother of the Son, participates in the power of the Son and in his goodness. We can always entrust the whole of our lives to this Mother.” As Msgr. Ronald Knox said: “That transformation of our material bodies to which we look forward one day has been accomplished—we know it now for certain—in her.”On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII officially defined the dogma of the Assumption in his apostolic constitution, Munificentissimus Deus:“For which reason, after we have poured forth prayers of supplication again and again to God, and have invoked the light of the Spirit of Truth, for the glory of Almighty God who has lavished his special affection upon the Virgin Mary, for the honor of her Son, the immortal King of the Ages and the Victor over sin and death, for the increase of the glory of that same august Mother, and for the joy and exultation of the entire Church; by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, of the Blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, and by our own authority, we pronounce, declare, and define it to be a divinely revealed dogma: that the Immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.”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 15, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

What's the deal with all these Marian Feast Days?

Listen to Fr. Steve's Homily from August 14, 2026

This podcast will cease airing within the next two weeks. Please see the links below to continue to get good Catholic content for catechesis and prayer. Thank you all for listening! Oremus pro invicem.  Judith 13: 22-25; 15: 10; Luke 1: 41-50; Lapide Commentary Check out my books and consider buying or gifting one, or just spreading the word!  "Penance Primer: A Guide to the Sacrament of Confession" : ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/01IAVb81⁠⁠"Panis Angelicus: The Mass Explained by St. Thomas Aquinas" : ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/03RrGELa⁠⁠"Ancient Meditations on the Mysteries of the Rosary" is available on my page in PDF (see below) and on Amazon: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0eJFr37j⁠⁠"Praying the Psalms with the Saints: Select Psalms with Brief Meditations and Commentary from the Saints" is available on my page (see below) and on Amazon::⁠⁠https://a.co/d/040Am2FI⁠⁠“The Fathers Explain the Sunday Gospels: Ordinary Time, Year A”, available as a PDF on my page (see below) and on Amazon: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0avKNVZC⁠⁠  And a volume for Advent: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0eFm6sMd⁠⁠“Soldiers of Christ: A Traditional Catholic Handbook for Young Men” is available as a PDF on my page (see below) as well as on Amazon in paperback form: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0iuT0LPG⁠⁠"5 Minute Theology: A Primer on Apologetics and Catholic Doctrine" is available as a PDF on my page (see below) and in Kindle and paperback versions on Amazon: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0cF4XpHc⁠⁠"Commentary on the Traditional Latin Mass Readings For Every Sunday of the Year" Volumes I ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/01qdaN4a⁠⁠IV ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/02IgWoJn⁠⁠ and Appendix I ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/09rddkCA⁠⁠ are also available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback, and on my donation page as PDFs (see below)You can purchase the PDF versions of these books on my donation page; just click the link”Shop” tab.⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief⁠⁠Please consider giving a five star rating and sharing the podcast with your friends and family.

This podcast will cease airing within the next two weeks. Please see the links below to continue to get good Catholic content for catechesis and prayer. Thank you all for listening! Oremus pro invicem.  Revelation 11: 19; 12: 1-6, 10; 1 Corinthians 15: 20-27; Luke 1: 39-56; Lapide Commentary Check out my books and consider buying or gifting one, or just spreading the word!  "Penance Primer: A Guide to the Sacrament of Confession" : ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/01IAVb81⁠⁠"Panis Angelicus: The Mass Explained by St. Thomas Aquinas" : ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/03RrGELa⁠⁠"Ancient Meditations on the Mysteries of the Rosary" is available on my page in PDF (see below) and on Amazon: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0eJFr37j⁠⁠"Praying the Psalms with the Saints: Select Psalms with Brief Meditations and Commentary from the Saints" is available on my page (see below) and on Amazon::⁠⁠https://a.co/d/040Am2FI⁠⁠“The Fathers Explain the Sunday Gospels: Ordinary Time, Year A”, available as a PDF on my page (see below) and on Amazon: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0avKNVZC⁠⁠  And a volume for Advent: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0eFm6sMd⁠⁠“Soldiers of Christ: A Traditional Catholic Handbook for Young Men” is available as a PDF on my page (see below) as well as on Amazon in paperback form: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0iuT0LPG⁠⁠"5 Minute Theology: A Primer on Apologetics and Catholic Doctrine" is available as a PDF on my page (see below) and in Kindle and paperback versions on Amazon: ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/0cF4XpHc⁠⁠"Commentary on the Traditional Latin Mass Readings For Every Sunday of the Year" Volumes I ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/01qdaN4a⁠⁠IV ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/02IgWoJn⁠⁠ and Appendix I ⁠⁠https://a.co/d/09rddkCA⁠⁠ are also available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback, and on my donation page as PDFs (see below)You can purchase the PDF versions of these books on my donation page; just click the link”Shop” tab.⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief⁠⁠Please consider giving a five star rating and sharing the podcast with your friends and family.

Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven Saturday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 8/15/26 Gospel: Luke 11:27-28

August 15 is the annual Feast of the Bodily Assumption of Mary (aka Solemnity of the Assumption / The Dormition of the Theotokos). It commemorates the "falling asleep" (death), resurrection, and bodily assumption into heaven of the Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. The day thus honors Mary entering heaven. Christian denominations that celebrate the Feast include Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Eastern Catholic, and select Anglo-Catholic/Anglican/Episcopal and protestant Lutheran churches. Super Saints podcast available at https://amzn.to/46spnjl Bob & Penny Lord's book: Visionaries, Mystics & Stigmatists at https://amzn.to/41z4aUS Bob & Penny Lord books available at https://amzn.to/4epZEiT Books about the Sacred Heart at https://amzn.to/4fATopj ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 X (twitter): https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Super Saints podcast with Bob and Penny Lord, Life of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, 12july2021. All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Read OnlineA Promise and Sign of Hope“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is his Name.” Luke 1:46–49Today we celebrate one of the great solemnities on the Church's liturgical calendar: the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Belief in her bodily assumption first took root in the early Church among those who witnessed this glorious event. Though we do not have written firsthand accounts of the Assumption, a variety of traditions have stood the test of time.According to a tradition handed down by Saint John Damascene in the fifth century, all of the Apostles except Thomas were miraculously gathered in Jerusalem at the time of Mary's Dormition, or falling asleep. After reverently placing her body in a tomb near the Garden of Gethsemane, they later opened it at Thomas's request, who had arrived late and wished to venerate her body. To their astonishment, the tomb was empty. This led the Apostles to conclude, through divine revelation, that the Blessed Virgin had been assumed body and soul into Heaven. That empty tomb is still honored today in the cave near Gethsemane and remains a popular place of pilgrimage.This early tradition laid the foundation for the Church's growing conviction through the centuries that Mary's Assumption was not merely a pious belief but a divinely revealed truth. In 1950, this truth was solemnly defined as dogma by Pope Pius XII in Munificentissimus Deus.Why was the Blessed Virgin Mary taken body and soul into Heaven at the completion of her earthly life? Because, by a singular grace, when she was conceived in the womb of her mother—traditionally known as Saint Anne—her conception was the Immaculate Conception. That is, she was conceived without the stain of Original Sin. This grace, called a prevenient or preceding grace, was given to her through the foreseen merits of her Son's future death on the Cross. That grace transcended time and preserved her from sin in advance, making her Son also her Savior, as she proclaimed in the Magnificat: “My spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”Though the Blessed Virgin Mary was not saved by her own merit, having been given the fullness of grace at the moment of her Immaculate Conception, she perfectly cooperated with that grace throughout her life. She remained free not only from Original Sin but also from all personal sin. Since “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23), and since the Blessed Mother was entirely without sin, her body and soul were never separated in death, which leads to bodily corruption. Instead, having completed the course of her earthly life, the Blessed Virgin Mary “was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory” (Munificentissimus Deus, 44).Why is this important for us today? Because the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is not only a singular privilege granted to her, it is also a sign of hope and a promise of what awaits all who remain faithful to Christ. Mary is the first and greatest disciple; where she has gone, we hope to follow. Her bodily glorification reveals that our salvation is more than spiritual, it also includes the redemption of the body. In a world wounded by sin, suffering, and death, the Assumption shines as a beacon of the final victory of grace. It reminds us that Heaven is our true home, that holiness is possible, and that those who entrust themselves to God alongside our Blessed Mother will share in Christ's Resurrection. As our loving Mother, now enthroned in glory, Mary intercedes for us and draws us ever closer to her Son, encouraging us to live each day with faith, purity, and joyful hope.Reflect today on the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary as a sign of hope and a promise of what is to come for you and your loved ones. Though we will die and our bodies will be laid to rest, one day our bodies and souls will rise and share in the resurrected glory of Jesus and Mary. This will be our eternity. Turn your eyes to that day, profess your faith in it, rejoice in God your Savior, and proclaim His greatness alongside His most glorious Mother.Most glorious Mother of God, you were singularly privileged to be preserved from the stain of Original Sin at your Immaculate Conception, and you fully cooperated with the fullness of grace throughout your earthly life, thereby meriting the gift of your bodily Assumption when your time on earth was completed. Pray for me, that I may be filled with hope and persevere in grace, so that I, too, may one day share in the glory of the Resurrection. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Assumption of the Virgin Mary, by Guido ReniSource: 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.

Full Text of Readings Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Lectionary: 621, 622 The Saint of the day is Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary The Story of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII defined the Assumption of Mary to be a dogma of faith: “We pronounce, declare and define it to be a divinely revealed dogma that the immaculate Mother of God, the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul to heavenly glory.” The pope proclaimed this dogma only after a broad consultation of bishops, theologians and laity. There were few dissenting voices. What the pope solemnly declared was already a common belief in the Catholic Church. We find homilies on the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary going back to the sixth century. In following centuries, the Eastern Churches held steadily to the doctrine, but some authors in the West were hesitant. However by the 13th century there was universal agreement. The feast was celebrated under various names—Commemoration, Dormition, Passing, Assumption—from at least the fifth or sixth century. Today it is celebrated as a solemnity. Scripture does not give an account of Mary's assumption into heaven. Nevertheless, Revelation 12 speaks of a woman who is caught up in the battle between good and evil. Many see this woman as God's people. Since Mary best embodies the people of both Old and New Testaments, her assumption can be seen as an exemplification of the woman's victory. Furthermore, in 1 Corinthians 15:20, Paul speaks of Christ's resurrection as the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. Since Mary is closely associated with all the mysteries of Jesus' life, it is not surprising that the Holy Spirit has led the Church to believe in Mary's share in his glorification. So close was she to Jesus on earth, she must be with him body and soul in heaven. Reflection In the light of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, it is easy to pray her Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55) with new meaning. In her glory she proclaims the greatness of the Lord and finds joy in God her savior. God has done marvels to her and she leads others to recognize God's holiness. She is the lowly handmaid who deeply reverenced her God and has been raised to the heights. From her position of strength she will help the lowly and the poor find justice on earth, and she will challenge the rich and powerful to distrust wealth and power as a source of happiness.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

The Blessed Virgin Mary's Assumption of her body and soul into Heaven makes very clear to us that there is room for our humanity in Heaven. Come and start celebrating this great Solemnity on Open Line Tuesday with Fr. Wade Menezes.

Preaching for the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary, Bonnie Abadie, DMin offers a reflection on her journey from a "plastic" and untouchable image of Mary to one grounded in the revolutionary power of the Magnificat:"I could see how it took great courage for her, a very young woman, to accept God's invitation to be the instrument through whom God's power turns the world upside down."Bonnie Abadie, DMin, a native of San Antonio, Texas, is Professor Emerita of Pastoral Studies at Oblate School of Theology. She holds a Doctoral Degree in Ministry (D. Min) and an M.T.S. from Oblate School of Theology; a B.A. in Religious Studies from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio. Visit www.catholicwomenpreach.org/preaching/08152026 to learn more about Bonnie, to read her preaching text, and for more preaching from Catholic women.

Welcome to Alive, our weekly reflection series to help you prepare for Sunday Mass. This week, Fr. Jonathan Meyer uncovers a beautiful connection between the Gospel for the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time and the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the Gospel, a persistent mother intercedes for her daughter, and Jesus responds to her faith. Could this woman also help us understand Mary's role in our lives? Just as this mother interceded for her child, Mary continues to intercede for us before her Son, Jesus Christ. Her Assumption into heaven is not simply about honoring Mary—it's about God's plan for our salvation and the powerful gift of a mother who never stops praying for her children. If you've ever wondered why Catholics ask Mary to pray for them, this reflection beautifully explains why.

Solemnity - The Solemnity of the Assumption of The Blessed Virgin Mary –15th August 2026 Image Credit: Photo Description - https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/iue9MPjiBnbqTkWZp2AD/the-assumption-of-the-blessed-mary-into-heavenly-glory?ru=Paul-Evangelion Readings FIRST READING: Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10 Psalm: Ps 44:10-12, 16. "The queen stands at your right hand, arrayed in gold." SECOND READING: 1 Corinthians 15:20-26 GOSPEL ACCLAMATION, (Alleluia, alleluia! Mary is taken up to heaven, and the angels of God shout for joy. Alleluia!). GOSPEL: Luke 1:39-56 ++++++++++++ Blessed Virgin Mary, assumed body and soul into heaven, pray for us—so that we may be made worthy of Christ's sure promises. Amen. ++++ References: Fr Paul W. Kelly https://aleteia.org/2019/08/14/beautiful-thoughts-from-the-saints-on-marys-death-and-assumption also see- https://www.ncregister.com/blog/the-assumption-of-mary-12-things-to-know-and-share-27jd571n?amp Image Credit: Photo Description - https://creator.nightcafe.studio/creation/iue9MPjiBnbqTkWZp2AD/the-assumption-of-the-blessed-mary-into-heavenly-glory?ru=Paul-Evangelion +++++++++ On this special (Solemnity of) the Assumption Of Mary Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries. Lord Jesus, you glorified your mother, the ark of God. Lord have mercy. You raised the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul, into heavenly glory. Christ have mercy. Mary's assumption is the first fruits of the victory you won for the human race. Lord have mercy. May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++ PREFACE: Glory of Mary assumed into heaven (solemnity) Euch.Prayer: 3 Memorial Acclamation 1. We proclaim your Death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again. ++++++++ Archive of homilies and reflections: http://homilycatholic.blogspot.com.au To contact Fr. Paul, please email: paulwkelly68@gmail.com +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ To listen to the weekly homily audio podcast, please click this link here: https://soundcloud.com/user-633212303/tracks Further information relating to the audio productions linked to this Blog: "Faith, Hope and Love - Christian worship and reflection" - Led by Rev Paul Kelly Prayers and chants — Roman Missal, 3rd edition, © 2010, The International Commission on English in the liturgy. (ICEL) Scriptures - New Revised Standard Version: © 1989, and 2009 by the NCC-USA. (National Council of Churches of Christ - USA) "The Psalms" ©1963, 2009, The Grail - Collins Publishers. Prayers of the Faithful - " Together we pray" by Robert Borg. E.J. Dwyer, Publishers (1993). (Sydney, Australia). Sung "Mass In Honour of St. Ralph Sherwin" - By Jeffrey M. Ostrowski. The Gloria. Copyright © 2011 ccwatershed.org. Hymn – "Rainfall – Mother of Mercy." Music by Paul W. Kelly. 1994, 2021. Words adapted by Paul W. Kelly, based on the Traditional Salve Regina Hymn. Arranged & with additional lyrics by Stefan Kelk. 2021. https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk Marian Hymn – "Whom Earth and Sea and Sky Proclaim." Traditional 6th Century Hymn. Melody: Bartholomäus Gesius (d.1613). #376 - Brébeuf Hymnal. From https://www.ccwatershed.org/hymn/ Marian Hymn - "Salve Regina Mater Misericordiae." (Traditional 11th Century). Melody: Mainz (1712), Hymn #783 - Brébeuf Hymnal. From https://www.ccwatershed.org/hymn/ Magnificat (Praise and sing to God) - Music by Paul W. Kelly. (1985, 2010, 2021), Lyrics inspired by Magnificat (Luke 1:46–55). Music arranged, with adapted lyrics by Stefan de Freyne Kelk. [https://www.airgigs.com/user/stefankelk] July 1, 2021. [ Production - KER - 2026] May God bless and keep you. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

For 8 August 2026, Solemnity of St. Dominic, based on Isaiah 52:7-10, Matthew 5:13-19, sent in from St. Louis, Missouri, USA. (Image is a watercolor of St. Dominic by John Gerlach, OP)

Friends of the Rosary,We celebrate today, August 6, the Feast of the Transfiguration, an event described in the three Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 17:1–8, Mark 9:2–13, Luke 9:28–36) which foretells the glory of the Lord as God and His Ascension into heaven.In the gospel accounts, Jesus and three of his apostles, Peter, James, and John, went to a mountain (the Mount of Transfiguration) to pray. On the mountaintop, Jesus began to shine with bright rays of light. Then the Old Testament figures Moses and Elijah appeared, and he spoke with them. Both figures had eschatological roles: they symbolize the Law and the prophets, respectively. Jesus is then called "Son" by the voice of God the Father, as in the Baptism of Jesus.The Transfiguration anticipates the presence of heaven, where we shall see God face to face.From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, #554, we learn:"From the day Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, the Master began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things... and be killed, and on the third day be raised.Peter scorns this prediction, nor do the others understand it any better than he does. In this context, the mysterious episode of Jesus' Transfiguration takes place on a high mountain, before three witnesses chosen by himself: Peter, James, and John. Jesus' face and clothes become dazzling with light, and Moses and Elijah appear, speaking "of his departure, which he was to accomplish at Jerusalem".A cloud covers him, and a voice from heaven says: "This is my Son, my Chosen; listen to him!"Thomas Aquinas considered the transfiguration "the greatest miracle" because it complemented baptism and revealed the perfection of life in Heaven. In 2002, Pope John Paul II introduced the Luminous Mysteries in the rosary, which include the transfiguration.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 6, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Solemnity of the Most Precious Blood

Welcome to the Intense Youth Conference! Celebrated on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Fr. Jonathan Meyer opens Intense with a powerful invitation to encounter the living Christ. Sharing the story of his own conversion, Fr. Meyer reminds us that Jesus doesn't simply want us to know about Him—He wants a personal relationship with each one of us. At every Mass, Jesus gives us everything: His Body, His Blood, and His Sacred Heart. The question is simple: Will you give Him your heart in return? Whether you're attending Intense for the first time or have been here for years, this homily is an invitation to surrender your life to Jesus Christ and discover the love that changes everything. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us. #IntenseYouthConference #FrJonathanMeyer #SacredHeart #Catholic #CatholicYouth #HolyMass #Eucharist #JesusChrist #EncounterJesus #CatholicHomily #CatholicFaith #Adoration #YouthConference #BeASaint

Welcome to Concert Friday on the Solemnity of St. Thomas the Apostle"Doubting Thomas" by Nickel CreekWhat will be left when I've drawn my last breathBesides the folks I've met and the folks who know me?Will I discover a soul-saving loveOr just the dirt above and below me?I'm a doubting ThomasI took a promiseBut I do not feel safeOh me of little faithSometimes I pray for a slap in the faceThen I beg to be spared 'cause I'm a cowardIf there's a master of death, I bet he's holding his breathAs I show the blind and tell the deaf about his powerI'm a doubting ThomasI can't keep my promises'Cause I don't know what's safeOh me of little faithCan I be used to help others find truthWhen I'm scared I'll find proof that it's a lie?Can I be led down a trail dropping bread crumbsTo prove I'm not ready to die?Please give me time to decipher the signsPlease forgive me for time that I've wastedI'm a doubting ThomasI'll take your promiseThough I know nothing's safeOh me of little faithOh me of little faith"Jesus, My Lord, My God, My All" by The Vigil Project (feat. John Finch)Jesus, my Lord, my God, my allHow can I love Thee as I ought?And, how revere this wondrous giftSo far surpassing hope or thought?Sweet Sacrament, we Thee adoreO, make us love Thee more and moreO, make us love Thee more and moreHad I but Mary's sinless heartTo love Thee with, my dearest KingO with what bursts of fervent praiseThy goodness, Jesus, would I singSweet Sacrament, we Thee adoreO, make us love Thee more and moreO, make us love Thee more and moreSound, sound His praises higher still,And come, ye angels, to our aid,'Tis God, 'tis God, the very GodWhose power both man and angels madeSweet Sacrament, we Thee adoreO, make us love Thee more and moreO, make us love Thee more and moreSweet Sacrament, we Thee adoreO, make us love Thee more and moreO, make us love Thee more and moreSweet Sacrament, we Thee adoreO, make us love Thee more and moreO, make us love Thee more and more

"Jesus built his church on top of a weak man." Stop hiding your weakness—it's the very place where Christ desires to build something that will last.

There's a new Niles in the world. Joshua Benedict Rex was born this week, and Dave wants you to know how stressful it all was. For the dad, that is. The pressure. The anxiety. All those things. None of which come to mind right now. Joke's on Dave, though, because Lady Pamela got to the birth center, the midwife offered to break her water, and Joshua arrived eleven minutes later. That's boy number three, bringing the count to three boys and four girls. Adam got the "we're going in" text at the hospital, stopped to pray, and barely beat the birth. The baby's a content little guy. A stereotypical Niles baby, the spitting image of baby Davy. Baptism's in a couple weeks with Uncle Father Sean, godparents are Sarah and Drew, and somewhere in there is a real theology question the guys throw to the priests who listen: can you name godparents after the fact for a baby baptized in a rush? Asking for a Mary.That birth set the whole table. Every time a baby comes into this circle of friends, the men pull their money, buy one nicer bottle of whiskey, sign it with the kid's name, and drink it together. They call it the "baby bottles" tradition. It blends friends into family. And it's exactly the kind of gift that makes you grateful, which is what this whole episode is about.They're recording on a Friday, the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart, the same day the bishops of America consecrated the entire country to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The pour is Glendalough, a pot still Irish whiskey the guys actually visited on pilgrimage. Triple distilled by law, smooth, no burn, and oddly cheap. The bottle shows St. Kevin in cruciform, a bird nesting in his open hand. The pious legend says he held that prayer posture so long the eggs hatched. Jim's scale (Irish edition): 3.96 out of 6.Then the meat: gratitude. Not the bumper-sticker kind. Gratitude is a virtue, a sub-virtue of justice, because it renders to another what's due, first to God who gave us everything. Aquinas lays out three degrees: recognition, expression, repayment. Most of us fail at the first one. We take the morning, the clothes, the breath for granted. St. Bernard calls ingratitude a scorching wind that dries up the streams of grace. God pours, the man doesn't return thanks, the flow stops.The hardest, most masculine turn in the episode is receiving. Men hate it. I don't need your charity. I can carry this cross. But refusing a gift graciously offered isn't humility. It's a wall. Adam's lived on the receiving end through Mary's time in the NICU, and he's learned the Christian paradox: the more graciously indebted you are, the richer your life, because the score is never even. That's not a debt to clear. That's a brotherhood.And the punchline ties it all together. Eucharist means thanksgiving. A man of gratitude is a Eucharistic man. You can't repay God for creating you, so He came down, became one of us, and offered Himself on your behalf. All you have to do is show up. Protect, provide, establish, and give thanks. Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDJoshua Benedict Rex Niles is born, baby boy number three, bringing the Niles count to three boys and four girlsDave's tongue-in-cheek case that the dad has it hardest in childbirthLady Pamela's eleven-minute birth at the birth center after the midwife broke her waterThe "kingship" theme running through the Niles boys' names: David, Joseph, and now Joshua Benedict RexWhy every Niles baby is a "cookie cutter" content baby, and Joshua looking just like baby DavyThe wonder that a child somehow looks like both mom and dad, "only God could make a baby look like both"Baptism plans with Uncle Father Sean and godparents Sarah and DrewThe open question for the priests who listen: can you name godparents after the fact for a baby baptized in a rush?The "baby bottles" tradition, the men pooling money for a signed bottle of whiskey to honor each new babyWhy this kind of tradition blends friends into familyRecording on the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart, and the U.S. bishops consecrating the country to the Sacred Heart of JesusWhiskey of the week: Glendalough pot still Irish whiskey, triple distilled and smoothThe legend of St. Kevin of Glendalough, the bird's nest in his hand and his love of all God's creaturesWhy Irish whiskey is the most approachable place to start, and surprisingly cheapJim's scale (Irish edition): 3.96 out of 6"Better than I deserve, I'm sure," Adam's go-to answer to "how are you?"The man at the pharmacy who'd just lost his wife, and never knowing what people are carryingGratitude as a virtue, and specifically a sub-virtue of justiceThe book of Job as the model of gratitude to the core: "the Lord has given and the Lord has taken away"Why a member of the Body of Christ is doing well no matter what else is going wrongAquinas's three degrees of gratitude: recognition, expression, repaymentWhy recognition is the weak spot for most people, the habit of taking things for grantedThe internal act of the will toward the benefactor as the heart of repaymentThe humility it takes to receive a gift, and why most men refuse charityHow receiving a gift graciously multiplies joy and binds a community togetherThe Christian paradox of being "graciously indebted," and why the score is never evenSt. Bernard of Clairvaux on ingratitude as a burning wind that dries up the streams of graceDeacon Garlick's prayer of thanks as a model for opening prayerMeditating on the magnitude of the Incarnation, the worm-and-the-man analogyWhy real men don't complain or "vent," and complaining as carrying the cross while griping about its weightDying for your family is easy; living for your family is hard, the little deathsAre you willing to get up, eat right, moderate your drinking, and put the phone down for your family?The Malcolm Gladwell mentorship lesson and the hidden cost of remote work, tribal knowledge not getting passed downWhy none of our best fatherhood or business "hacks" are original, and the duty to pass them onSt. John Chrysostom and St. Thérèse of Lisieux: gratitude as the superpower of the soulWhy you won't become holy without the habit of gratitude"People need to be reminded more than they need to be instructed"Keeping the right perspective so you don't live in a false reality the devil wants for youEucharist means thanksgiving, a man of gratitude is a Eucharistic manREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks & Writings:The Book of Job (the model of gratitude through suffering)The Summa Theologiae by St. Thomas Aquinas, Second Part of the Second Part (the three degrees of gratitude; ingratitude as sin)Malcolm Gladwell's work on mentorship and learning a craft (referenced by Adam)Saints & Church Fathers:St. Thomas Aquinas (the three degrees of gratitude; gratitude as a sub-virtue of justice)St. Bernard of Clairvaux (the "leaky vessel"; ingratitude as a burning wind that dries up the streams of grace)St. Kevin of Glendalough (the bird's-nest legend; love of God's creatures)St. John Chrysostom ("gratitude is the superpower of the soul")St. Thérèse of Lisieux (gratitude and the spiritual life)Simon of Cyrene (carrying the cross with Christ)People:Adam Minihan (host; founder of M6 Marketing; writes The Grounded Builder on Substack)Jim (in studio, keeper of the yummy scale)Lady Pamela Niles (delivered baby number seven)Joshua Benedict Rex Niles (newborn), David Jr., and Joseph Niles (the "kingship" names)Baby Mary Minihan (still in the NICU, the gifts and prayers received)Uncle Father Sean (baptizing Joshua); Sarah and Drew (godparents)Deacon Garlick (his prayer of thanks)Programs & Institutions:The Catholic Man Show pilgrimage (where the guys visited Glendalough)Glendalough Distillery, IrelandSPONSOR BLOCKSponsor: Select International Tours: selectinternationaltours.comWhen Adam and Dave decided to lead their first pilgrimage, one name kept coming up: Select International Tours. They're the best. Having used them, the guys can vouch for it. No matter where in the world you want to go, Select has a tour ready for you. Whether you want to lead a pilgrimage or attend one, head to selectinternationaltours.com and take a look at everything they offer. You won't regret it.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul by Ms. Joan Watson. Peter and Paul, Apostles Solemnity – Day First Reading: Acts 12: 1-11 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 34: 2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 Second Reading: Second Timothy 4: 6-8, 17-18 Alleluia: Matthew 16: 18 Gospel: Matthew 16: 13-19   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To register for the St. Paul Center's 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner, please visit stpaulcenter.com/gala Encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at stpaulcenter.com/memberships  

Today’s Topics: Father Robert Elias joins Terry 1) Gospel – Matthew 16:13-19 – When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi He asked His disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “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.” Solemnity of  of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles Saints Peter and Paul, pray for us! 2, 3, 4) In Part Two, Terry and Father Robert continue discussing Saint John of the Cross, his Spirituality and what he teaches us

Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 29, 2026. The readings are from Acts 12:1-11, Psalm 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17-18, Matthew 16:13-19 (Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles). Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

Original Post Date: June 29, 2024 === Gospel Matthew 16:13-19 When Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter said in reply, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus said to him in reply, “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.” Reflection Jesus is making clear that he's given authority to his church. The church must be founded on truth so that the Kingdom of God can take place one day here on this earth.  Closing Prayer Father, help us to acknowledge the authority in the truths that we find in our religion. All religions. We pray that churches will proclaim consistently your wisdom, your truth. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Friends of the Rosary,Today, June 29th, the Universal Church celebrates the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, apostles. They are the solid rock, the principal pillars, on which the Church is built. Both apostles were martyred under the reign of Emperor Nero, in Rome, then the capital of the Empire, around the year 64.Peter was crucified upside down, while Paul, a Roman citizen, was beheaded.St. Peter was buried on the hill of the Vatican on the very site of today's Basilica of St. Peter's. St. Paul was beheaded in the Via Ostia on the spot where now stands the basilica bearing his name.Among the Twelve Apostles, Peter became the spokesman, declaring: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” At Pentecost, he delivered the first fiery sermon of the infant Church.Although not one of the Twelve, Paul is also called an apostle (the thirteenth apostle, the apostle to the Gentiles) after encountering the resurrected Jesus on the road to Damascus while persecuting Christians.Early church fathers, like St. Augustine, noted that even if they died on different days, they are celebrated together because of their intertwined legacies.In the Catholic Church, it is a holy day of obligation in some regions and is marked by the Pope with a Grand Papal Mass at St. Peter's Basilica.In many predominantly Catholic cities (especially in Rome, as well as in Latin America and Europe), the day is marked with local processions, traditional seafood feasts, and outdoor festivals.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 29, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Greek matters!

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.

The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist by Dr. Scott Hahn. Nativity of John the Baptist Solemnity – Day First Reading: Isaiah 49: 1-6 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 139: 1b-3, 13-14ab, 14c-15 Second Reading: Acts 13: 22-26 Alleluia: Luke 1: 76 Gospel: Luke 1: 57-66, 80 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To register for the St. Paul Center's 25th Anniversary Gala Dinner, please visit stpaulcenter.com/gala Encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at stpaulcenter.com/memberships  

Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 24, 2026. The readings are from Isaiah 49:1-6, Psalm 139:1b-3, 13-14ab, 14c-15, Acts 13:22-26, Luke 1:57-66, 80 (The Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist). Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

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Original Post Date: June 24, 2025 === Gospel Luke 1:57-66, 80 When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy toward her, and they rejoiced with her. When they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Immediately his mouth was opened, his tongue freed, and he spoke blessing God. Then fear came upon all their neighbors, and all these matters were discussed throughout the hill country of Judea. All who heard these things took them to heart, saying, “What, then, will this child be?” For surely the hand of the Lord was with him. The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the desert until the day of his manifestation to Israel. Reflection We see in this story a very, very important teaching. The Old Testament and the New Testament are not the same. The Old Testament, based on the law and performance. The New Testament based on God's presence within us. It's a radical shift. And it's so fascinating that in the plan of God, the greatest of the Old Testament prophets is the one that looks at Jesus and says, there that's the one. That's what we've been talking about. That's the direction you need to now take. Listen to him. I spoke God's words, but he is God incarnate. Closing Prayer Father, it's always been difficult for us to make the shift between the Old and the New Testament. The Old Testament is so much more attuned to our minds and our wills. And yet, the New Testament demands that we open our heart and let God dwell there. So help us in this transition. It's what we all go through in our own spiritual journey. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Read OnlineWhen they came on the eighth day to circumcise the child, they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” But they answered her, “There is no one among your relatives who has this name.” So they made signs, asking his father what he wished him to be called. He asked for a tablet and wrote, “John is his name,” and all were amazed. Luke 1:59–63The Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist is one of only three birthdays the Church celebrates with a liturgical feast—the others being those of Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary. This extraordinary honor reveals the singular role Saint John played in salvation history as the Forerunner who prepared the way for the Lord. Three profound mysteries surrounding John's birth invite our reflection.First, Elizabeth's pregnancy in her old age, after years of barrenness and beyond natural childbearing years, was a deliberate sign of divine intervention and a testimony to God's power and mercy. Recall that a similar miracle occurred when Sarah conceived Isaac in her old age. Spiritually, Elizabeth represents Israel—and all humanity—trapped in the barrenness of sin. By bringing forth life from her barren womb, God manifests His ability to bring forth new life where human effort fails.Second, the bestowal of John's name reveals the divine initiative governing his life and mission. In the biblical tradition, names are rich with meaning, often disclosing a person's identity and destiny. The name “John,” meaning “The Lord is gracious,” was not chosen by his parents, but was announced by the Archangel Gabriel before his conception (cf. Luke 1:13). When Elizabeth and Zechariah insist upon the name given by God, they demonstrate their obedience to divine revelation over human custom. Their relatives' confusion—“There is no one among your relatives who has this name”—highlights how this birth breaks from human expectations. John is not to carry on his father's name or legacy; he is set apart entirely for the mission of preparing the way for the Messiah. In this, we see a lesson for every Christian: Our true identity and mission are not rooted in earthly lineage or human tradition but are given to us by the free and gracious call of God.Finally, the restoration of Zechariah's speech after months of divinely imposed silence serves as a powerful sign of faith's triumph over doubt. Zechariah had been struck mute because of his initial disbelief at the angel's announcement (cf. Luke 1:20). During Elizabeth's pregnancy, he lived in silence—a silence that must have been filled with contemplation, repentance, and deeper trust. It was only when he confirmed God's command by writing, “John is his name,” that his tongue was loosed. His first act upon regaining his speech was to bless God, revealing that his heart had been purified and transformed. The loosening of Zechariah's tongue prefigures the prophetic voice of his son John, who would cry out in the wilderness, calling Israel to repentance. Spiritually, it also reminds us that true praise of God flows from hearts made humble and obedient to His will.As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, reflect today not only on John's unique role in salvation history but also on how God desires to work in our own lives. If you experience moments of barrenness or dryness in your faith, take hope from John's miraculous birth: God can bring forth new life even from what seems lifeless. As John's name revealed the graciousness of God, so too are you called to trust in His mercy at work within you. And as Zechariah learned obedience and deeper faith through his silent suffering, pray that you may embrace any hidden trials you endure, allowing them to purify your heart and prepare you to proclaim God's goodness with renewed joy.Lord of Wisdom and Love, Your plan for our salvation is perfect and far beyond our understanding. As Your Church celebrates the birth of Saint John the Baptist, grant me a renewed appreciation for his life and mission. May he prepare my heart for You, as he did for Your coming, so that I, like his father Zechariah, may sing Your praises with a loosed tongue. Saint John the Baptist, pray for us. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: His name is John, 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.

Full Text of Readings Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Lectionary: 586, 587 The Saint of the day is Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Story of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Jesus called John the greatest of all those who had preceded him: “I tell you, among those born of women, no one is greater than John….” But John would have agreed completely with what Jesus added: “[Y]et the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he” (Luke 7:28). John spent his time in the desert, an ascetic. He began to announce the coming of the Kingdom, and to call everyone to a fundamental reformation of life. His purpose was to prepare the way for Jesus. His baptism, he said, was for repentance. But one would come who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. John was not worthy even to untie his sandals. His attitude toward Jesus was: “He must increase; I must decrease” (John 3:30). John was humbled to find among the crowd of sinners who came to be baptized the one whom he already knew to be the Messiah. “I need to be baptized by you” (Matthew 3:14b). But Jesus insisted, “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15b). Jesus, true and humble human as well as eternal God, was eager to do what was required of any good Jew. Jesus thus publicly entered the community of those awaiting the Messiah. But making himself part of that community, he made it truly messianic. The greatness of John, his pivotal place in the history of salvation, is seen in the great emphasis Luke gives to the announcement of his birth and the event itself—both made prominently parallel to the same occurrences in the life of Jesus. John attracted countless people to the banks of the Jordan, and it occurred to some people that he might be the Messiah. But he constantly deferred to Jesus, even to sending away some of his followers to become the first disciples of Jesus. Perhaps John's idea of the coming of the Kingdom of God was not being perfectly fulfilled in the public ministry of Jesus. For whatever reason, when he was in prison he sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the Messiah. Jesus' answer showed that the Messiah was to be a figure like that of the Suffering Servant in Isaiah. John himself would share in the pattern of messianic suffering, losing his life to the revenge of Herodias. Reflection John challenges us Christians to the fundamental attitude of Christianity—total dependence on the Father, in Christ. Except for the Mother of God, no one had a higher function in the unfolding of salvation. Yet the least in the kingdom, Jesus said, is greater than he, for the pure gift that the Father gives. The attractiveness as well as the austerity of John, his fierce courage in denouncing evil—all stem from his fundamental and total placing of his life within the will of God. The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist shows us the way to purity and graceSaint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Adam's on the front porch watching one of those Oklahoma sunsets that make you forgive the state for everything else. Dave pulls up. Walks toward the house, chest out, confident, ready to record. Adam asks the only question that matters: did you bring the equipment? He did not. New baby syndrome. Joshua got his first bath that night, Lady Pamela's still on the mend and bending over a tub isn't on the menu yet, and somewhere between bathing the kids and getting out the door, the recording gear stayed home. So Dave logged a solid hour of windshield time driving back and forth across town to fetch it. The baby's worth it. Six days old and already back to birth weight, sleeping three hours at a stretch, an almost unfairly easy kid for a man who's had colicky ones before.The pour is a curveball: Saltire, a 14-year independent bottling distilled at Tomar, a first-fill Oloroso sherry cask. It's a Speyside, but nobody at the table would've guessed it. It drinks salty, like saltwater taffy, like it grew up near the ocean. The notes promise polished leather, dried cherries, tobacco, and, if you add water, burnt sugar, hazelnut, and "speckled chocolate milk," a phrase that derailed the conversation for a solid minute because nobody could agree what speckled chocolate milk is supposed to be. Cheers to Jesus. We're on the winning side.Then Adam reaches past the planned backbiting episode, grabs Francis Weiser's Handbook of Christian Feasts and Customs off the shelf, and lands on something better: the Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, June 24th.Here's the hook that got him. The Church only celebrates three birthdays. Jesus. Our Lady. And John the Baptist. Everybody else gets honored on the day they die, because for a saint that's the real birthday, the day they enter eternal life. So why John? The tradition says all three were born free from original sin. John wasn't conceived without it like Jesus and Mary, but he was sanctified in the womb when he leapt at the sound of Our Lady's voice at the Visitation. Born clean. St. Augustine treats it as a settled tradition, and if the Fathers are in, the guys are in.The logic of the date is the part that'll stick with you. June 24th rides the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and from there the light starts to wane all the way down to Christmas and the winter solstice, when it turns and climbs again. John said it himself: I must decrease, so that He must increase. That's not just a calendar coincidence. It's a map of the soul. The more room you take up in your own heart, the less there is for Christ. If you want Him to be king there, you've got to get out of the way.Then the fun: how to actually live it. Put it on the calendar and get to Mass. Pray the Benedictus as a family and light a candle. Build a bonfire on the eve, John the Baptist is one of the three fires on the Catholic year. Feed the kids honey sticks and, if you're brave, dried crickets, locusts and wild honey, desert food. Make it the anchor of your summer. This is the Establish pillar in the flesh, the small traditions that hand your kids an identity they'll carry for life. Catholic spice. Raise your glass.TOPICS COVEREDDave forgets the recording equipment thanks to "new baby syndrome," and logs an hour of windshield time driving back for itJoshua Niles at six days old, back to birth weight and sleeping three hours at a stretch, an unfairly easy babyLady Pamela still recovering, and a dad bathing the kids to take the load offThe aside on Irish twins, baby formula, and why breastfeeding affects fertilityElizabeth Niles getting blessed by Pope Leo, and which popes "bless with their kisses"Whiskey of the week: Saltire 14-year, an independent bottling distilled at Tomar, first-fill Oloroso sherry caskA Speyside that drinks salty, like saltwater taffy, and the mystery of "speckled chocolate milk"Dave's wheat experiment, tripling the planting and cutting it by hand with a scythe, and the open call for a small-scale wheat-farming expert to email the showThe broody-hen saga, abandoned eggs, four surprise chicks, and Adam's "apartment" trick for relocating broody hens at nightWhy the episode pivoted from a planned backbiting topic to living liturgicallyFrancis Weiser's Handbook of Christian Feasts and Customs as a source for feast-day livingThe Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist on June 24thWhy the Church celebrates only three birthdays: Jesus, Mary, and John the BaptistThe tradition that all three were born free from original sin, and John sanctified in the womb at the VisitationWho John was: son of Zechariah and Elizabeth, Zechariah struck mute, "no one greater born of women"The small-t tradition that John's parents died young and he was raised in the desert by angelsJohn as the forerunner and the "best man" escorting the bride to Christ the BridegroomFifteen churches dedicated to John the Baptist in ancient Constantinople aloneJohn as patron of tailors, shepherds, and masons, and why each one fitsWhy June 24th: the summer solstice and "I must decrease so that He must increase" as a map of the soulThe real reason it's the 24th and not the 25th: the Roman calendar counting backward from the kalendsWeiser's pushback on the idea that the feast was a baptized pagan partyJust how high this feast ranked in the early Church: three Masses, abstaining from servile work, and a 14-day fast prescribed by a German synod in 1022The other two feasts of John: the Decollation (Aug 29) and the East's celebration of his conception (Sep 23)St. John Paul II on Christ as door, vine, mother hen, and actual BridegroomTier-one celebration: put feast days on your calendar and get to Holy MassJoseph Pieper on a true feast requiring the divine and abundanceFamily traditions like pierogies, and how they hand kids a Catholic and ethnic identityPraying the Benedictus (Luke 1:68-79) as a family and lighting a candleTier-two celebration: a bonfire on the eve, the three fires of the Catholic year, and feeding the kids crickets and honey sticksTier-three celebration: making the feast the anchor of your family's summer vacationREFERENCED IN THIS EPISODEBooks & Writings:Handbook of Christian Feasts and Customs by Francis X. Weiser, S.J. (out of print; the episode's primary source)Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist by Brant Pitre (the best man / bridegroom imagery)Jesus and the Jewish Roots of Mary by Brant Pitre (recommended alongside it)The Gospel of Luke, chapter 1 (Zechariah and Elizabeth; the Benedictus, vv. 68-79; Gabriel telling Mary that Elizabeth is in her sixth month)Saints & Church Fathers:St. John the Baptist (the Nativity, June 24; the Decollation, Aug 29; the conception, Sep 23 in the East)St. Augustine (the tradition that John was sanctified in the womb)St. Joseph (referenced for his multiple feasts, including St. Joseph the Worker)St. Faustina and Divine Mercy Sunday (an example of a feast the Church raised up for the times)St. Louis de Montfort, True Devotion to Mary and the confraternity (the first-Saturday plenary indulgence)People:Adam Minihan (host; founder of M6 Marketing; writes The Grounded Builder on Substack)Dave Niles (host; Porter Prairie homestead)Lady Pamela Niles (recovering after the birth of baby Joshua)Joshua Niles (six days old) and the Niles children, including Joseph and ElizabethPope Leo (who blessed Elizabeth Niles) and Pope FrancisJoseph Pieper (Adam's private devotion; on the nature of a feast)St. John Paul II (Christ as Bridegroom)Programs & Institutions:Select International Tours (sponsor; the guys' pilgrimage company)SPONSOR BLOCKSponsor: Select International Tours: selectinternationaltours.comWhen Adam and Dave decided to lead their first pilgrimage, they asked around for who to work with, and one name came back over and over: Select International Tours. The best. Having used them now, the guys can attest to it. No matter where in the world you want to go, Select has a tour ready for you. Whether you want to lead a pilgrimage or attend one, do yourself a favor and head to selectinternationaltours.com to see everything they offer. You won't regret it.Amen App by the Augustine InstituteThe Amen app is the free Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.

Homily from the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). To have the Real Presence in the Eucharist, one needs the Apostolic priesthood. Corpus Christi is an important feast for an important Reality. We know that Jesus was clear when He taught about His Body and Blood in the Eucharist...yet this true Presence requires the true ministerial priesthood that Jesus established with His Apostles. Christ's followers are divided, but He continues to desire our unity. Mass Readings from June 7, 2026: Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14-16 Psalm 147:12-15, 19-201 Corinthians 10:16-17 John 6:51-58

Friends, we've come to the great Solemnity of Corpus Christi—a celebration of the Body and Blood of Christ in the Eucharist. Our first reading mentions the “manna” that fed the Israelites in the desert—a mysterious bread from heaven described in the book of Exodus. This is then correlated to the Eucharist, the bread from heaven that Jesus gives us, in our Gospel from the sixth chapter of John. I want to explore four dimensions of this relationship between manna and the Eucharist.

Homily from the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity. God is not a problem to solve, but One to be trusted. The Holy Trinity is the term that we use to try and convey the Mystery of Who God ultimately is. But no definition will suffice. And no explanation could possibly capture God's fullness. God is simply beyond anything that we can conceive of or imagine...but He has revealed Himself and called us into relationship with Him. Even if we do not fully grasp Him. Mass Readings from May 31, 2026: Exodus 34:4b-6, 8-9 Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 562 Corinthians 13:11-13 John 3:16-18