Podcasts about Theotokos

🌍 ¿Te has preguntado por qué la figura de una madre virgen o una diosa madre es central en tantas religiones? En este video, hacemos un viaje espiritual a través de culturas y épocas para descubrir el poderoso arquetipo de la Madre de Dios. No hablamos solo de la Virgen María del cristianismo, sino de un símbolo universal presente desde la antigüedad. 🔍 Exploraremos juntos: • Isis, la diosa madre egipcia que amamantó a faraones y resucitó a Osiris. • Devī o Parvati en el hinduismo, madre de dioses poderosos como Ganesha. • Māyā, la madre de Buda, y su milagroso nacimiento. • La Virgen María y su papel como Theotokos ("portadora de Dios"). • Figuras mesoamericanas como Coatlicue, madre de Huitzilopochtli. • La conexión sorprendente: ¿Por qué todas encarnan amor, sacrificio, creación y un vínculo único entre lo humano y lo divino?

Our beloved holy Father Nicholas is, along with St George (and second to the All-holy Theotokos), probably the best-loved Saint of the Church. His numberless miracles through the ages, on behalf of the countless Christians who have called on him, cannot be told.   He was born in Lycia (in Asia Minor) around the end of the third century, to pious Christian parents. His love of virtue, and his zeal for observing the canons of the Church, were evident from his infancy, when he would abstain from his mother's breast every Wednesday and Friday until the evening. From early youth he was inclined to solitude and silence; in fact, not a single written or spoken word of the Saint has come down to us. Though ordained a priest by his uncle, Archbishop Nicholas, he attempted to withdraw to a hermit's life in the Holy Land; but he was told by revelation that he was to return home to serve the Church publicly and be the salvation of many souls.   When his parents died, he gave away all of his inheritance to the needy, and thereafter almsgiving was his greatest glory. He always took particular care that his charity be done in secret. Perhaps the most famous story of his open-handedness concerns a debt-ridden man who had no money to provide dowries for his daughters, or even to support them, and in despair had resolved to give them into prostitution. On three successive nights the Saint threw a bag of gold into the window of the man's house, saving him and his daughters from sin and hopelessness. The man searched relentlessly to find and thank his benefactor; when at last he discovered that it was Nicholas, the Saint made him promise not to reveal the good deed until after he had died. (This story may be the thin thread that connects the Saint with the modern-day Santa Claus).   God honored his faithfulness by granting him unparalleled gifts of healing and wonderworking. Several times he calmed storms by his prayers and saved the ship that he was sailing in. Through the centuries he has often done the same for sailors who call out to him, and is considered the patron of sailors and all who go to sea.   He was elected Bishop of Myra not long before the great persecutions under Diocletian and Maximian (c. 305), and was put in prison, from which he continued to encourage his flock in the Faith. When the Arian heresy wracked the Church not long after Constantine came to the throne, St Nicholas was one of the 318 Bishops who gathered in Nicea in 325. There he was so incensed at the blasphemies of Arius that he struck him on the face. This put the other bishops in a quandary, since the canons require that any hierarch who strikes anyone must be deposed. Sadly, they prepared to depose the holy Nicholas; but in the night the Lord Jesus and the most Holy Theotokos appeared to them, telling them that the Saint had acted solely out of love for Truth, not from hatred or passion, and that they should not act against him.   While still in the flesh, he sometimes miraculously appeared in distant places to save the lives of the faithful. He once saved the city of Myra from famine by appearing to the captain of a ship full of grain, telling him to take his cargo to the city. He appeared in a dream to Constantine to intercede for the lives of three Roman officers who had been falsely condemned; the three grateful soldiers later became monks.   The holy bishop reposed in peace around 345. His holy relics were placed in a church built in his honor in Myra, where they were venerated by throngs of pilgrims every year. In 1087, after Myra was conquered by the Saracens, the Saint's relics were translated to Bari in southern Italy, where they are venerated today. Every year, quantities of fragrant myrrh are gathered from the casket containing his holy relics.

In this episode, Stephen Boyce and Pat May examine the Second Council of Constantinople (553), the Fifth Ecumenical Council, convened under Emperor Justinian I during the Three Chapters Controversy. We explain the condemnation of Theodore of Mopsuestia, Theodoret of Cyrrhus, and the Letter of Ibas, the reaffirmation of Chalcedonian Christology, and the council's defense of Mary as Theotokos and her perpetual virginity. We also cover the dramatic Pope Vigilius controversy, his resistance, arrest, eventual submission, and the lasting impact of the council in both the East and West.#SecondCouncilOfConstantinople #FifthEcumenicalCouncil #ChurchHistory #EcumenicalCouncils #ConstantinopleII #ByzantineChurch #Justinian #PopeVigilius #ThreeChaptersControversy #StephenBoyce

What does it mean to call Mary the “Mother of God”? In this episode, Greg dives into the ancient debate at the Council of Ephesus (431 AD) over the term Theotokos and why it's a cornerstone of Christian orthodoxy. Far from just being about Mary, this doctrine safeguards the truth of the Incarnation—that Jesus is fully God and fully man. Greg unpacks common Protestant objections, addresses misunderstandings, and explores how Theotokos shapes Catholic theology and liturgy today. Whether you're curious about Catholicism or deepening your faith, this episode will challenge you to see Jesus in a new light. SUPPORT THIS SHOW Considering Catholicism is 100% listener-supported. If this podcast has helped you on your journey, please become a patron today! For as little as $5/month you get: • Every regular episode ad-free and organized into topical playlists • Exclusive bonus content (extra Q&As, Deep-Dive courses, live streams, and more) • My deepest gratitude and a growing community of like-minded listeners ➡️ Join now: https://patreon.com/consideringcatholicism (or tap the Patreon link in your podcast app) One-time gift: Donate with PayPal! CONNECT WITH US • Website & contact form: https://consideringcatholicism.com • Email: consideringcatholicism@gmail.com • Leave a comment on Patreon (I read every one!) RATE & REVIEW If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating (and even better, a review) on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — it really helps new listeners find us. SHARE THE SHOW Know someone who's curious about Catholicism? Send them a link or share an episode on social media. Thank you! Christus vincit, Christus regnat, Christus imperat.

He was born in Constantinople in 715 to pious parents named John and Anna. His mother had prayed often to the most holy Theotokos to be granted a son, and received a revelation from our Lady that she would conceive the son she desired. When the child was born, she named him Stephen, following a prophecy of the Patriarch St Germanos (commemorated May 12). Stephen entered monastic life as a youth, and so distinguished himself in asceticism and virtue that the hermits of Mt Auxentius appointed him their leader at a young age.   'During the reign of Constantine V (741-775), Stephen showed his love of Orthodoxy in contending for the Faith... Besides being a fierce Iconoclast, Constantine raised up a ruthless persecution of monasticism. He held a council in 754 that anathematized the holy icons. Because Saint Stephen rejected this council, the Emperor framed false accusations against him and exiled him. But while in exile Saint Stephen performed healings with holy icons and turned many away from Iconoclasm. When he was brought before the Emperor again, he showed him a coin and asked whose image the coin bore. "Mine," said the tyrant. "If any man trample upon thine image, is he liable to punishment?" asked the Saint. When they that stood by answered yes, the Saint groaned because of their blindness, and said if they thought dishonouring the image of a corruptible king worthy of punishment, what torment would they receive who trampled upon the image of the Master Christ and of the Mother of God? Then he threw the coin to the ground and trampled on it. He was condemned to eleven months in bonds and imprisonment. Later, he was dragged over the earth and was stoned, like Stephen the First Martyr; wherefore he is called Stephen the New. Finally, he was struck with a wooden club on the temple and his head was shattered, and thus he gave up his spirit in the year 767.' (Great Horologion)

He was born in Constantinople in 715 to pious parents named John and Anna. His mother had prayed often to the most holy Theotokos to be granted a son, and received a revelation from our Lady that she would conceive the son she desired. When the child was born, she named him Stephen, following a prophecy of the Patriarch St Germanos (commemorated May 12). Stephen entered monastic life as a youth, and so distinguished himself in asceticism and virtue that the hermits of Mt Auxentius appointed him their leader at a young age.   'During the reign of Constantine V (741-775), Stephen showed his love of Orthodoxy in contending for the Faith... Besides being a fierce Iconoclast, Constantine raised up a ruthless persecution of monasticism. He held a council in 754 that anathematized the holy icons. Because Saint Stephen rejected this council, the Emperor framed false accusations against him and exiled him. But while in exile Saint Stephen performed healings with holy icons and turned many away from Iconoclasm. When he was brought before the Emperor again, he showed him a coin and asked whose image the coin bore. "Mine," said the tyrant. "If any man trample upon thine image, is he liable to punishment?" asked the Saint. When they that stood by answered yes, the Saint groaned because of their blindness, and said if they thought dishonouring the image of a corruptible king worthy of punishment, what torment would they receive who trampled upon the image of the Master Christ and of the Mother of God? Then he threw the coin to the ground and trampled on it. He was condemned to eleven months in bonds and imprisonment. Later, he was dragged over the earth and was stoned, like Stephen the First Martyr; wherefore he is called Stephen the New. Finally, he was struck with a wooden club on the temple and his head was shattered, and thus he gave up his spirit in the year 767.' (Great Horologion)

Today Fr. Philip encourages us as we continue on our journey through the Nativity season. Father weaves together the parable of the Rich Fool and the life of the Theotokos, demonstrating how one who follows God should be rich. You can find his blog with this reflection and more in written form at https://easternchristianinsights.blogspot.com

Today Fr. Philip encourages us as we continue on our journey through the Nativity season. Father weaves together the parable of the Rich Fool and the life of the Theotokos, demonstrating how one who follows God should be rich. You can find his blog with this reflection and more in written form at https://easternchristianinsights.blogspot.com

What if reverence isn't a feeling you chase, but a reality you enter?This episode follows a grateful former Protestant named Michael from his upbringing all the way to a first Divine Liturgy in a small Orthodox chapel on a military base in Okinawa—and the quiet discoveries that happened along the way. Join Cloud of Witnesses hosts Jeremy Jeremiah and Mario Andrew as we move through warm family memories, the culture shock of military life, and the slow drift that happens when belief outruns practice. Then the trail turns: an old-school YouTube series on church history, the Jordan River baptismal site, a striking painting of confession, and even a meme about the Theotokos—little breadcrumbs pointing toward something older, deeper, and strangely familiar.What we explore (without the debate club tone):Icons, saints, Mary—through the Incarnation: not add-ons, but practices that flow from God made flesh and the Church's unbroken life.A reframing question: instead of “Were the early Fathers really Christians?” try “Would they recognize our faith as theirs?” That single question reshapes how we think about worship, authority, sacraments, and belonging to a parish that actually forms us.Worship reimagined: the first Liturgy lands as awe-filled, ordered, communal—not performance or preference but the Church at prayer.Accountability & spiritual fatherhood: why guidance matters when culture pulls hard—and how confession, obedience, and community keep us real.Vocation with roots: plans for law school and faithful presence in public life, now steadied by a tradition that tells you who you are.Gratitude without amnesia: love for Scripture and prayer received in Protestant homes, alongside honesty about what felt missing—continuity, reverence, and a daily rule of life.If you've felt restless—church-hopping, yearning for weight and continuity—this conversation offers a gentle map: the ancient path is not a museum; it's a living way that teaches hearts to pray, minds to think with the Church, and bodies to worship with all the senses.Listen & share. If this resonates, subscribe and send to a friend who's searching. In your review, tell us the one question you'd ask the early Church—what would you hope they recognize in your faith?Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTokPlease leave a comment with your thoughts!

Fr. Evan answers your questions on the Orthodox position on the priesthood of all believers, how to deepen our relationship with the Theotokos as a mother figure, if an Eastern Orthodox can believe in one nature of Christ, how one can move their faith from their head to their heart, and more on this episode of Orthodoxy Live!

Fr. Evan answers your questions on the Orthodox position on the priesthood of all believers, how to deepen our relationship with the Theotokos as a mother figure, if an Eastern Orthodox can believe in one nature of Christ, how one can move their faith from their head to their heart, and more on this episode of Orthodoxy Live!

When the holy and most pure child Mary (Mariam or Miriam in Hebrew) reached the age of three, her parents, the righteous Joachim and Anna, fulfilled the vow they had made to dedicate her to God. Going in procession with a company of maidens carrying torches, they presented their child at the Temple in Jerusalem, where Zecharias the High Priest took her under his care, blessing her with these words: "The Lord has glorified thy name in every generation; it is in thee that He will reveal the Redemption that he has prepared for his people in the last days." He then brought the child into the Holy of Holies — something completely unheard-of, for under the Law only the High Priest was allowed to enter the Holy Place, and he only once a year on the Day of Atonement.   (In the icon of the feast, the maidens who accompany the Theotokos are shown bare-headed, as was customary for unmarried girls; but the Theotokos herself, though only three years old, wears the head-covering of a married woman to show her consecration to God.)   The holy Virgin lived in the Temple for the next nine years, devoting herself entirely to prayer. In this time she attained the utter purity of heart befitting the destined Bearer of the Most High; she became in her own person the fulfilment and condensation of all of Israel's faithfulness. Saint Gregory Palamas says that, when the Theotokos entered the Holy of Holies, the time of preparation and testing of the Old Covenant came to an end for Israel, which was now ready, in the blessed Virgin, to bring forth the Savior.   When Mary approached marriageable age, she was entrusted to the chaste widower Joseph to guard her. (The Prologue says that a life of intentional virginity was unknown among the Hebrews, so the righteous Joseph undertook the forms of marriage so as not to cause scandal among the people.)   "Wherefore the Church rejoices and exhorts all the friends of God for their part to enter into the temple of their heart, there to make ready for the coming of the Lord by silence and prayer, withdrawing from the pleasures and cares of this world." (Synaxarion)

When the holy and most pure child Mary (Mariam or Miriam in Hebrew) reached the age of three, her parents, the righteous Joachim and Anna, fulfilled the vow they had made to dedicate her to God. Going in procession with a company of maidens carrying torches, they presented their child at the Temple in Jerusalem, where Zecharias the High Priest took her under his care, blessing her with these words: "The Lord has glorified thy name in every generation; it is in thee that He will reveal the Redemption that he has prepared for his people in the last days." He then brought the child into the Holy of Holies — something completely unheard-of, for under the Law only the High Priest was allowed to enter the Holy Place, and he only once a year on the Day of Atonement.   (In the icon of the feast, the maidens who accompany the Theotokos are shown bare-headed, as was customary for unmarried girls; but the Theotokos herself, though only three years old, wears the head-covering of a married woman to show her consecration to God.)   The holy Virgin lived in the Temple for the next nine years, devoting herself entirely to prayer. In this time she attained the utter purity of heart befitting the destined Bearer of the Most High; she became in her own person the fulfilment and condensation of all of Israel's faithfulness. Saint Gregory Palamas says that, when the Theotokos entered the Holy of Holies, the time of preparation and testing of the Old Covenant came to an end for Israel, which was now ready, in the blessed Virgin, to bring forth the Savior.   When Mary approached marriageable age, she was entrusted to the chaste widower Joseph to guard her. (The Prologue says that a life of intentional virginity was unknown among the Hebrews, so the righteous Joseph undertook the forms of marriage so as not to cause scandal among the people.)   "Wherefore the Church rejoices and exhorts all the friends of God for their part to enter into the temple of their heart, there to make ready for the coming of the Lord by silence and prayer, withdrawing from the pleasures and cares of this world." (Synaxarion)

Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley are joined by Macy English to play Knowing Faith Theological Trivia. Grab a pen and paper to play along!Questions Covered in This Episode:The Story of the Bible:Name the four gospels.In what waters did Naaman wash in to be healed of leprosy?Who in the Old Testament prefigures Christ as both priest and king?True or False: King Saul was from the tribe of Judah.Which prophet's scroll records the story of the valley of dry bones?Spiritual Belief:What does the word “Trinity” describe?The Nicene Creed says the Son is “begotten, not made.” What heresy does that refute?Which ecumenical council affirmed Mary as Theotokos or the “God-bearer”?Which heresy claimed Jesus only appeared to have a human body?What Latin term captures the Reformation truth that faith alone justifies, but the faith that justifies is never alone?Spiritual Formation:What word means “to become more like Christ”?According to John Owen, sanctification involves the mortification of ___ and vivification of ___.True or False: The Greek word for “fruit” of the Spirit in Galatians 5 is plural.Who first popularized the phrase “means of grace” to describe habits that grow believers?Which Reformation theologian taught that true knowledge of God leads to knowledge of self?Bonus Round:Who was the left-handed judge who killed the Moabite king Eglon with his sword?Guest Bio:Macy English is the Owner & Principal Consultant of English Media, where she helps businesses with all things sales & marketing. She is a lover of people, culture, marketing, and health, and she strives for all that matters in life. Macy and her husband, JT, live in Arvada, CO, with their two kids and love to travel.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Deep Discipleship Program Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteOur Sister Podcast:Tiny TheologiansSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join the show with a TEXT here!A former Protestant apologist has flipped the script: once a defender of sola scriptura, he now argues that the church's authority supersedes Scripture. In this episode we watch his video, unpack his central objections to sola scriptura, and trace how his new ecclesial framework reshapes his understanding of dogma.We'll move from close reaction to careful analysis, testing his claims against historical and theological standards and then putting one of the canons from Nicaea II under the microscope to show where an ecclesial-first approach clashes with a Scripture-centered view of authority.This episode is for anyone interested in doctrinal controversies, patristic authority, or the Protestant–Catholic/Eastern conversation—pastors, students, and curious listeners alike. Grab your Bible, bring a snack, and settle in!

As we continue our discussion of the difficulty in integrating the journey on the way of the life of faithfulness to the evengalion of Jesus, The Christ, the Orthodox Christian way of life, into contemporary western culture, Jim & Fr Symeon take the opportunity to discuss "the other side". Last conversation we defined & critique "woke" as the civil religion of the so-called Left. This time we will define & critique "Make America Great Again" as the civil religion of the so-called Right. The reason we wish to critique it is because it uses Christian language but is not Christian. And yet we can end the episode with the hymns to The Theotokos which call her a military leader, proclaiming our victory & the establishment of our way of life. Find out why this isn't about theocracy & isn't about violence, by tuning in!Scripture citations for this episode: - Genesis 1 & 2   - Creation as a battle against chaos & death - Genesis 11   - Tower of Babel - Galatians 5:16-26   - Fruits of The SpiritThe Christian Saints Podcast is a joint production of Generative sounds & Paradosis Pavilion with oversight from Fr Symeon KeesParadosis Pavilion - https://youtube.com/@paradosispavilion9555https://www.instagram.com/christiansaintspodcasthttps://twitter.com/podcast_saintshttps://www.facebook.com/christiansaintspodcasthttps://www.threads.net/@christiansaintspodcastIconographic images used by kind permission of Nicholas Papas, who controls distribution rights of these imagesPrints of all of Nick's work can be found at Saint Demetrius Press - http://www.saintdemetriuspress.comAll music in these episodes is a production of Generative Soundshttps://generativesoundsjjm.bandcamp.comDistribution rights of this episode & all music contained in it are controlled by Generative SoundsCopyright 2021 - 2023

Fr. John LoCoco joins Patrick to discuss Marian Dogmas What are Dogmas? (2:45) why are Maran Dogmas important for Catholics? (8:30) Mary the Mother of God. (15:57) Naser - I am a Muslim: Muslims are the only religion in the world who recognize Jesus as a prophet. It is hard for us Muslims to see Mary as mother of God also since God can't have mothers (23:22) Break 1 (25:37) Perpetual Virginity of Mary. (32:53) Tom - AS a catechist, Can father add clarity to share ways I can share the element of mystery? The Assumption, Theotokos. (37:37) Break 2 (39:52) The Immaculate Conception. (44:37) The Assumption of Mary. Why does the Catholic Church teach about Doctrinal Development?

His Hebrew name is Jacob. He was a close kinsman of Christ, and was therefore called, according to the Jewish usage of the time, his "brother." Some accounts say that he was a child of Joseph by his first marriage; others accounts say that he was the son of Joseph's brother Cleopas and his wife Mary, who was first cousin of the Theotokos. He took the Nazirite vows of one completely consecrated to God according to the Law, and from a young age he was called "the Just" by his people. He is called James the Lesser in Scripture (Mark 15:40) to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, who is called the Greater. The Apostles appointed him first Bishop of Jerusalem. It was he who presided at the earliest Council of the Church in Jerusalem, where he resolved the problem of how gentile converts should be received into the Church (see Acts 15). He wrote the New Testament Epistle, addressed primarily to Jewish converts to the Faith, that bears his name. About the year 62, he ascended to the peak of the Temple in Jerusalem on Passover, and there bore witness to Christ so effectively that the people cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David." At this, the Scribes and Pharisees, fearing that all the people would be converted to Christ, cast him down to the ground. By God's grace, he survived long enough to rise, kneel and pray, like his Master, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do." He was then clubbed to death by one of the scribes.

His Hebrew name is Jacob. He was a close kinsman of Christ, and was therefore called, according to the Jewish usage of the time, his "brother." Some accounts say that he was a child of Joseph by his first marriage; others accounts say that he was the son of Joseph's brother Cleopas and his wife Mary, who was first cousin of the Theotokos. He took the Nazirite vows of one completely consecrated to God according to the Law, and from a young age he was called "the Just" by his people. He is called James the Lesser in Scripture (Mark 15:40) to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, who is called the Greater. The Apostles appointed him first Bishop of Jerusalem. It was he who presided at the earliest Council of the Church in Jerusalem, where he resolved the problem of how gentile converts should be received into the Church (see Acts 15). He wrote the New Testament Epistle, addressed primarily to Jewish converts to the Faith, that bears his name. About the year 62, he ascended to the peak of the Temple in Jerusalem on Passover, and there bore witness to Christ so effectively that the people cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David." At this, the Scribes and Pharisees, fearing that all the people would be converted to Christ, cast him down to the ground. By God's grace, he survived long enough to rise, kneel and pray, like his Master, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do." He was then clubbed to death by one of the scribes.

Part 2- This is the second of four installments of a special Constant Procession podcast series to celebrate the 200th year of the Erie Canal and how my creation of a documentary about the canal brought me closer to the Virgin Mary. The story continues with the person who took responsibility for moving the canal from a pipe dream into the waterway it is today, 200 years later. Someone had to step up in a leadership position, and that man was DeWitt Clinton. As mayor of New York City, Clinton was an innovator. His contributions to the city were ahead of their times. His ability to develop and implement ideas have marked the landscape of both the city and the country. He was to become immortalized for his work on the Erie Canal. Listen from the beginning- Episode 478- Part 1   There are links, photos and more about this on my website. Pray for this war in the Middle East to end. Also, Pray for the People of Ukraine. There are links for ways to support them on my website: NikosSteves.com   I have written a contemporary novel with Christian themes entitled "The Very Fine Light" Preview it for FREE and/or purchase "The Very Fine Light" at Amazon.com   I value feedback through the comments section on my website, NikosSteves.com Or via email at NikosSteves@gmail.com Constant Procession tells of key apparitions of the Virgin Mary since she passed on from the world and how she serves humanity through Christianity. The origin of these podcasts began with my first book, The Constant Procession. Constant Procession (the podcast) is published every Tuesday morning and has links, photos, video and more information for each episode at NikosSteves.com      

43 And having fulfilled the days, when they returned, the child Jesus remained in Jerusalem; and his parents knew it not.consummatisque diebus, cum redirent, remansit puer Jesus in Jerusalem, et non cognoverunt parentes ejus. 44 And thinking that he was in the company, they came a day's journey, and sought him among their kinsfolks and acquaintance.Existimantes autem illum esse in comitatu, venerunt iter diei, et requirebant eum inter cognatos et notos. 45 And not finding him, they returned into Jerusalem, seeking him.Et non invenientes, regressi sunt in Jerusalem, requirentes eum. 46 And it came to pass, that, after three days, they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, hearing them, and asking them questions.Et factum est, post triduum invenerunt illum in templo sedentem in medio doctorum, audientem illos, et interrogantem eos. 47 And all that heard him were astonished at his wisdom and his answers.Stupebant autem omnes qui eum audiebant, super prudentia et responsis ejus. 48 And seeing him, they wondered. And his mother said to him: Son, why hast thou done so to us? behold thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.Et videntes admirati sunt. Et dixit mater ejus ad illum : Fili, quid fecisti nobis sic? ecce pater tuus et ego dolentes quaerebamus te. 49 And he said to them: How is it that you sought me? did you not know, that I must be about my father's business?Et ait ad illos : Quid est quod me quaerebatis? nesciebatis quia in his quae Patris mei sunt, oportet me esse? 50 And they understood not the word that he spoke unto them.Et ipsi non intellexerunt verbum quod locutus est ad eos. 51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them. And his mother kept all these words in her heart.Et descendit cum eis, et venit Nazareth : et erat subditus illis. Et mater ejus conservabat omnia verba haec in corde suo.To commemorate in liturgy the fifteenth centenary of the Council of Ephesus (held in A.D. 431), which vindicated the title of Theotokos or "Mother of God" for our Lady, Pope Pius Xi in the year 1931 instituted this Feast to be observed by the whole Church.

Part 1- This is the first of four installments of a special Constant Procession miniseries series to celebrate the 200th year of the Erie Canal and how my creation of a documentary about the canal brought me closer to the Virgin Mary. During the movie shoots over a 5-year period I discovered that as I traveled to parts of New York State unknown to me, I found the Virgin Mary was always there. I became more sensitive to the real nature of her presence and I've continued to find her as I go on my overseas travels. Part 1 covers the reasons for the need of a canal in the early years of the United States of America. And the episode ends with the person responsible for making the project happen. Here is the beginning of the story: A big part of America's history almost never got built. Its builders ignored presidential advice, risked millions of dollars, and changed the course of America's society by building a ditch. Work was begun in 1817 and completed in only seven years. But it was not simply a matter of digging a few trenches to link one river to a second and a third and so on. This was a man-made ditch, four feet deep, the height of an average car, and 40 feet wide, the width of a four-lane highway, 363 miles long, running almost the entire length of New York State, from East in Albany to West in Buffalo. There are links, photos and more about this on my website. Pray for this war in the Middle East to end. Also, Pray for the People of Ukraine. There are links for ways to support them on my website: NikosSteves.com   I have written a contemporary novel with Christian themes entitled "The Very Fine Light" Preview it for FREE and/or purchase "The Very Fine Light" at Amazon.com   I value feedback through the comments section on my website, NikosSteves.com Or via email at NikosSteves@gmail.com Constant Procession tells of key apparitions of the Virgin Mary since she passed on from the world and how she serves humanity through Christianity. The origin of these podcasts began with my first book, The Constant Procession. Constant Procession (the podcast) is published every Tuesday morning and has links, photos, video and more information for each episode at NikosSteves.com

Patrick takes heartfelt questions from callers wrestling with scrupulosity, confession anxiety, and misunderstandings about Catholic teaching on celibacy and sin. He shares practical wisdom, weaving in scripture and personal encouragement, as listeners reveal their own struggles with temptation, family faith conflicts, and daily spiritual challenges. His perspective brings clarity and reassurance to those unsure about where they stand with God or how to approach difficult conversations in faith. Laura (email) - I'm not sure if I am behaving too scrupulous or not. (00:44) Jim - My son went to a Baptism where there was a married priest. This confuses me. I feel discouraged that married men can't become priests. (11:49) Patricia - Is the Farmer's Almanac demonic? (21:16) Allan - What is the Theotokos? Is Mary divine? (25:21) Nick - My Church offers confession every day. If I have a strong temptation, is that appropriate to take to confession? (27:52) Pat - You said that priests cannot marry because of their choice. Do married priests still have to practice celibacy and can they get remarried? (37:43) Maria - I am trying to evangelize a Muslim, and he does believe He is a prophet. How do I explain to Muslims that Jesus died and rose again? (45:11)

It is a striking fact, though often overlooked, that from the earliest days of the Church, the Virgin Mary was not merely honoured as the Mother of our Lord, but held up as the model of Christian faith itself.This wasn't because early Christians confused her with Christ, or wished to place her above Him. Rather, they saw in her something the modern world too often misses: a life fully and freely surrendered to God. Before she carried Christ in her womb, she had already welcomed Him in her heart.When the angel Gabriel came to her, he did not offer a polite suggestion. He declared a divine reality: “You will conceive and bear a son.” No theological debate, no careful exposition, only a moment of decision. And Mary's response—“Be it unto me according to thy word”—was more than agreement. It was the first, purest act of discipleship in all of Christian history. From that moment, the Church understood something profound: Mary is not the exception to the Christian life; she is its pattern.Long before St. Peter dropped his nets or St. Paul fell from his horse, Mary had already said yes to God. She believed when belief came at a cost. She trusted when she did not understand. She obeyed when the path was unclear. And when all others had fled the cross, she remained.This is why the earliest Christians honoured her—not as a goddess, not as a distant symbol, but as the first and truest disciple. They called her Theotokos, “God-bearer,” not to exalt her above Christ, but to defend the truth of the Incarnation: that God truly became man, and did so through the willing obedience of a human being.Mary shows us what it looks like when humanity is fully open to God. Not proud. Not self-sufficient. Not scrambling to control. But open. Receptive. Willing. We are not called to be her, but we are called to follow her. And most of us, it must be said, are not likely to become apostles, prophets, or martyrs. But we are all called to do what she did: to listen for the voice of God—and to respond, not with delay or demands, but with faith.If the Fall began with Eve's “no,” then redemption begins with Mary's “yes.” In that yes, history turned, Heaven touched Earth, and the Word became flesh. She did not work miracles. She did not preach sermons. She simply gave herself to God—and in doing so, gave the world its Saviour. Her faith was quiet, but unshakable. Hidden, but world-changing. And if we have eyes to see it, her life offers us not a relic to revere, but a path to walk. --- Help Spread the Good News --- Father Brian's homilies are shared freely thanks to generous listeners like you. If his words have blessed you, consider supporting this volunteer effort. Every gift helps us continue recording and sharing the hope of Jesus—one homily at a time. Give Here: https://frbriansoliven.org/give

He was probably the first Bishop of Athens, ordained by the Holy Apostle Paul himself. St Dionysius (see October 3) describes St Hierotheos as his teacher and friend "after Paul." With St Dionysius, St Hierotheos was miraculously brought by the power of the Holy Spirit to be present with the Apostles at the Dormition of the Theotokos. He reposed in peace.

He was probably the first Bishop of Athens, ordained by the Holy Apostle Paul himself. St Dionysius (see October 3) describes St Hierotheos as his teacher and friend "after Paul." With St Dionysius, St Hierotheos was miraculously brought by the power of the Holy Spirit to be present with the Apostles at the Dormition of the Theotokos. He reposed in peace.

On October 1, 911, during the reign of Emperor Leo the Wise, an all-night vigil was being held at the Blachernae Church of the Mother of God in Constantinople, with many of the faithful crowding the church. St Andrew the Fool for Christ (commemorated tomorrow, October 2) was standing at the back of the church with his disciple Epiphanius. At around four in the morning, the most holy Theotokos appeared above the people, clothed in resplendent garments, surrounded by indescribable radiance, and holding a veil in her outstretched hands, as though to protect all the people. St Andrew said to Epiphanius 'Do you see how the Queen and Lady of all is praying for the whole world?' Epiphanius replied 'Yes, Father, I see it and stand in dread.' This wonderful event is recorded in Epiphanius' life of St Andrew. Because of it, the Church keeps an annual feast on this date.   Note: This feast is particularly well-loved in the Slavic churches. In 1960, the Greek church transferred its observance to October 28, in memory of the Mother of God's protection of the Greek forces holding the Albanian front against Italy in 1940. St Romanos the Melodist of Constantinople (556)

On October 1, 911, during the reign of Emperor Leo the Wise, an all-night vigil was being held at the Blachernae Church of the Mother of God in Constantinople, with many of the faithful crowding the church. St Andrew the Fool for Christ (commemorated tomorrow, October 2) was standing at the back of the church with his disciple Epiphanius. At around four in the morning, the most holy Theotokos appeared above the people, clothed in resplendent garments, surrounded by indescribable radiance, and holding a veil in her outstretched hands, as though to protect all the people. St Andrew said to Epiphanius 'Do you see how the Queen and Lady of all is praying for the whole world?' Epiphanius replied 'Yes, Father, I see it and stand in dread.' This wonderful event is recorded in Epiphanius' life of St Andrew. Because of it, the Church keeps an annual feast on this date.   Note: This feast is particularly well-loved in the Slavic churches. In 1960, the Greek church transferred its observance to October 28, in memory of the Mother of God's protection of the Greek forces holding the Albanian front against Italy in 1940. St Romanos the Melodist of Constantinople (556)

October 1st, 2025:  Carmelites & Our Lady; Holy Protection of the Theotokos - Protecting Us in this Spiritual Warfare; Great Littleness; Bl Francis Cichi of Pesaro; St Remigius, Anger & the Wedding Garment; Protection of the Theotokos - Run to Your Mother

The holy Apostle was, by the world's reckoning, the nephew of our Savior, since his mother Salome was the daughter of St Joseph the Betrothed. Called 'the beloved disciple,' St John was the only one of Christ's disciples to follow Him to the Cross. He was entrusted by the Savior with the care of the most holy Theotokos, and became like another son to her, providing for her care until the day of her repose. He preached the Gospel of Christ throughout Asia Minor, especially in Ephesus. During the persecutions of the Emperor Domitian, he was taken in bonds to Rome, where he was subjected to various tortures; but when he emerged from these miraculously unharmed, he was exiled to the island of Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation. After the death of Domitian, he returned to Ephesus and there wrote his Gospel and Epistles. He reposed in peace at a great old age. When his disciples later opened his grave, they found that his body was not there. He is called the Theologian because of the sublimity of theological expression in his New Testament writings.

The holy Apostle was, by the world's reckoning, the nephew of our Savior, since his mother Salome was the daughter of St Joseph the Betrothed. Called 'the beloved disciple,' St John was the only one of Christ's disciples to follow Him to the Cross. He was entrusted by the Savior with the care of the most holy Theotokos, and became like another son to her, providing for her care until the day of her repose. He preached the Gospel of Christ throughout Asia Minor, especially in Ephesus. During the persecutions of the Emperor Domitian, he was taken in bonds to Rome, where he was subjected to various tortures; but when he emerged from these miraculously unharmed, he was exiled to the island of Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation. After the death of Domitian, he returned to Ephesus and there wrote his Gospel and Epistles. He reposed in peace at a great old age. When his disciples later opened his grave, they found that his body was not there. He is called the Theologian because of the sublimity of theological expression in his New Testament writings.

'Our righteous Father Sergius was born in Rostov, north of Moscow, about the year 1314. Named Bartholomew in baptism, he was brought up in Radonezh, and at the death of his parents he withdrew to the wilderness to become a monk. It is notable that without having been trained in a monastery, he was of such a spiritual stature as to be able to take up the perilous eremitical life from the beginning, without falling into delusion or despondency. When he had endured with courage the deprivations of the solitary life, other monks began to come to him, for whom he was made abbot against his will. On the counsel of Philotheus, Patriarch of Constantinople, he organized his monks according to the cenobitic life, appointing duties to each. While Anthony and Theodosius of Kiev, and the other righteous Fathers before Sergius, had established their monasteries near to cities, Sergius was the leader and light of those who went far into the wilderness, and after his example the untrodden forests of northern Russia were settled by monks. When Grand Duke Demetrius Donskoy was about to go to battle against the invading Tartars, he first sought the blessing of Saint Sergius, through whose prayers he was triumphant. Saint Sergius was adorned with the highest virtues of Christ-like humility and burning love for God and neighbor, and received the gift of working wonders, of casting out demons, and of discretion for leading souls to salvation. When he served the Divine Liturgy, an Angel served him visibly; he was also vouchsafed the visitation of the most holy Theotokos with the Apostles Peter and John. He was gathered to his Fathers on September 25, 1392. At the recovery of his holy relics on July 5th, 1422, his body and garments were found fragrant and incorrupt. His life was written by the monk Epiphanius, who knew him.' (Great Horologion)

'Our righteous Father Sergius was born in Rostov, north of Moscow, about the year 1314. Named Bartholomew in baptism, he was brought up in Radonezh, and at the death of his parents he withdrew to the wilderness to become a monk. It is notable that without having been trained in a monastery, he was of such a spiritual stature as to be able to take up the perilous eremitical life from the beginning, without falling into delusion or despondency. When he had endured with courage the deprivations of the solitary life, other monks began to come to him, for whom he was made abbot against his will. On the counsel of Philotheus, Patriarch of Constantinople, he organized his monks according to the cenobitic life, appointing duties to each. While Anthony and Theodosius of Kiev, and the other righteous Fathers before Sergius, had established their monasteries near to cities, Sergius was the leader and light of those who went far into the wilderness, and after his example the untrodden forests of northern Russia were settled by monks. When Grand Duke Demetrius Donskoy was about to go to battle against the invading Tartars, he first sought the blessing of Saint Sergius, through whose prayers he was triumphant. Saint Sergius was adorned with the highest virtues of Christ-like humility and burning love for God and neighbor, and received the gift of working wonders, of casting out demons, and of discretion for leading souls to salvation. When he served the Divine Liturgy, an Angel served him visibly; he was also vouchsafed the visitation of the most holy Theotokos with the Apostles Peter and John. He was gathered to his Fathers on September 25, 1392. At the recovery of his holy relics on July 5th, 1422, his body and garments were found fragrant and incorrupt. His life was written by the monk Epiphanius, who knew him.' (Great Horologion)

He was a peasant named Hilarion in the district of Vologda, and lived a simple, laboring life until he began to lose his sight. Not despairing, Hilarion went to all the churches nearby and asked that services of intercession be offered for him. One day, during the Divine Liturgy, Hilarion beheld a man in white clothing who told him that his name was Cosmas, blessed him, and told him that he would soon be healed. The next day Hilarion was going to church again and the Holy Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian appeared to him along with an icon of the Mother of God. A voice from the icon said that the people must cleanse the place where he stood and erect a cross there. Upon venerating the icon, Hilarion was instantly and completely healed. Returning to his village, he joyfully told what had happened. The villagers cleansed the place, as commanded in Hilarion's vision, set up a cross, and built a chapel to house the icon, which began to work many miracles. When the bishop learned of these events, he determined to found a monastery on that spot, and made Hilarion the first monk, giving him the name of Joseph. Saint Joseph spent the next thirty years there in prayer and great asceticism: he would spend the winter nights without sleep, standing in prayer before the miraculous icon of the Theotokos. He reposed in peace and was buried in the chapel that he and his fellow-villagers had built years before.

He was a peasant named Hilarion in the district of Vologda, and lived a simple, laboring life until he began to lose his sight. Not despairing, Hilarion went to all the churches nearby and asked that services of intercession be offered for him. One day, during the Divine Liturgy, Hilarion beheld a man in white clothing who told him that his name was Cosmas, blessed him, and told him that he would soon be healed. The next day Hilarion was going to church again and the Holy Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian appeared to him along with an icon of the Mother of God. A voice from the icon said that the people must cleanse the place where he stood and erect a cross there. Upon venerating the icon, Hilarion was instantly and completely healed. Returning to his village, he joyfully told what had happened. The villagers cleansed the place, as commanded in Hilarion's vision, set up a cross, and built a chapel to house the icon, which began to work many miracles. When the bishop learned of these events, he determined to found a monastery on that spot, and made Hilarion the first monk, giving him the name of Joseph. Saint Joseph spent the next thirty years there in prayer and great asceticism: he would spend the winter nights without sleep, standing in prayer before the miraculous icon of the Theotokos. He reposed in peace and was buried in the chapel that he and his fellow-villagers had built years before.

Mary embodies the Church and each of her members through her title “Theotokos.” She shows us how we are called to “bear God” in our own lives.

Today Fr. Philip offers a reflection on the Nativity of the Theotokos, and the lessons from it that we can use to help embrace our struggles. You can find his blog with this reflection and more in written form at https://easternchristianinsights.blogspot.com/.

Today Fr. Philip offers a reflection on the Nativity of the Theotokos, and the lessons from it that we can use to help embrace our struggles. You can find his blog with this reflection and more in written form at https://easternchristianinsights.blogspot.com/.

What do we know about Mary from the New Testament scriptures? What do the episodes of her life recorded in the Gospels and Acts reveal about her character and vocation and that of her son Jesus?Support us on Patreon for Member access to our special podcast series where we go in depth on books of the Bible. Ongoing season: Exodus. You will also gain access to the entire archive of Season 1: The Gospel of John.Apply for Saint Paul's House of FormationEmail usMusic by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications Word & Table Episode Index

In the final part of their Dormition series on the Life of the Theotokos, Elissa Bjeletich and Kristina Wenger explore the details of her passing from earthly life.

In the final part of their Dormition series on the Life of the Theotokos, Elissa Bjeletich and Kristina Wenger explore the details of her passing from earthly life.

Catholics call her the Queen of Heaven. The Orthodox call her Theotokos, the God-bearer. Both traditions pray to her, sing hymns to her, and ask for her intercession. But here's the question: Is Mary truly meant to be our mediator—or have centuries of devotion blurred the line between honoring the mother of Jesus and worshiping her? Where did these beliefs come from, when did they start, and how do they stack up against Scripture? On our next episode, we're asking: does Marian devotion deepen faith in Christ—or distract from Him?

The Third "Feast of the Savior" in August While the Lord was preaching in Palestine, his fame reached a king Avgar of Edessa, who suffered from leprosy. Avgar sent a messenger named Ananias to ask whether the Lord could heal his illness. The king also charged Ananias, if he was unable to bring back Jesus Himself, to bring back a likeness of Him. When Ananias found Jesus, the Lord told him that he could not come to Edessa since the time of His passion was at hand. But he took a cloth and washed His face, miraculously leaving a perfect image of His face on the cloth. Ananias brought the holy image back to the king, who reverently kissed it. Immediately his leprosy was healed, save for a small lesion that remained on his forehead. Later the Apostle Thaddeus came to Edessa, preaching the gospel, and Avgar and his household were baptized, at which time his remaining leprosy vanished. The king had the holy likeness mounted on wood and displayed above the city gate for all to revere. But Avgar's grandson returned to idolatry, and the Bishop of Edessa had the image hidden in the city wall to prevent it from being defiled. Many years later, when the Persian king Chosroes besieged Edessa, the Bishop Eulabius was told in a vision to find the sealed chamber, whose location had been forgotten. The holy icon was found, completely incorrupt, and by its power the Persian army was driven off. In the year 944 the image was brought to Constantinople and enshrined in the Church of the Theotokos called the Pharos. This is the event commemorated today.

The Third "Feast of the Savior" in August While the Lord was preaching in Palestine, his fame reached a king Avgar of Edessa, who suffered from leprosy. Avgar sent a messenger named Ananias to ask whether the Lord could heal his illness. The king also charged Ananias, if he was unable to bring back Jesus Himself, to bring back a likeness of Him. When Ananias found Jesus, the Lord told him that he could not come to Edessa since the time of His passion was at hand. But he took a cloth and washed His face, miraculously leaving a perfect image of His face on the cloth. Ananias brought the holy image back to the king, who reverently kissed it. Immediately his leprosy was healed, save for a small lesion that remained on his forehead. Later the Apostle Thaddeus came to Edessa, preaching the gospel, and Avgar and his household were baptized, at which time his remaining leprosy vanished. The king had the holy likeness mounted on wood and displayed above the city gate for all to revere. But Avgar's grandson returned to idolatry, and the Bishop of Edessa had the image hidden in the city wall to prevent it from being defiled. Many years later, when the Persian king Chosroes besieged Edessa, the Bishop Eulabius was told in a vision to find the sealed chamber, whose location had been forgotten. The holy icon was found, completely incorrupt, and by its power the Persian army was driven off. In the year 944 the image was brought to Constantinople and enshrined in the Church of the Theotokos called the Pharos. This is the event commemorated today.

On the Cross, the Lord charged the Apostle John to care for His holy Mother. The Apostle settled her in a house in Jerusalem, where she lived for the rest of her days on earth, praying and offering counsel and encouragement to the Apostles. In her old age, the Archangel Gabriel appeared to her and told her that in three days' time she would enter into her rest. Giving thanks to God, she hastened to the Mount of Olives where she prayed continually, preparing herself to meet the Lord. Meanwhile, the Apostles, scattered in various parts of the earth, were caught up in clouds and miraculously brought by the holy Angels to Jerusalem, so that they might all be with the Theotokos at her repose. After she had blessed them, she gave up her soul to God. The Apostles buried her with all honor, solemnity and joy at Gethsemane. The Apostle Thomas, who was delayed (again!) by God's providence, arrived on the third day and went to her tomb, intending to honor her. But when the Apostles opened her grave, they found her holy body gone and only the winding-sheet remaining. That evening the Theotokos appeared to them surrounded by angels, and said to them, 'Rejoice: I will be with you always!'. Thus they learned that she had been bodily translated to heaven, anticipating the general resurrection of all. Her age at her repose is not known, but many say that she was about sixty years old.

On the Cross, the Lord charged the Apostle John to care for His holy Mother. The Apostle settled her in a house in Jerusalem, where she lived for the rest of her days on earth, praying and offering counsel and encouragement to the Apostles. In her old age, the Archangel Gabriel appeared to her and told her that in three days' time she would enter into her rest. Giving thanks to God, she hastened to the Mount of Olives where she prayed continually, preparing herself to meet the Lord. Meanwhile, the Apostles, scattered in various parts of the earth, were caught up in clouds and miraculously brought by the holy Angels to Jerusalem, so that they might all be with the Theotokos at her repose. After she had blessed them, she gave up her soul to God. The Apostles buried her with all honor, solemnity and joy at Gethsemane. The Apostle Thomas, who was delayed (again!) by God's providence, arrived on the third day and went to her tomb, intending to honor her. But when the Apostles opened her grave, they found her holy body gone and only the winding-sheet remaining. That evening the Theotokos appeared to them surrounded by angels, and said to them, 'Rejoice: I will be with you always!'. Thus they learned that she had been bodily translated to heaven, anticipating the general resurrection of all. Her age at her repose is not known, but many say that she was about sixty years old.

Full Text of ReadingsTuesday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 408The Saint of the day is Dedication of Saint Mary Major BasilicaThe Story of the Dedication of Saint Mary Major Basilica First raised at the order of Pope Liberius in the mid-fourth century, the Liberian basilica was rebuilt by Pope Sixtus III shortly after the Council of Ephesus affirmed Mary's title as Mother of God in 431. Rededicated at that time to the Mother of God, St. Mary Major is the largest church in the world honoring God through Mary. Standing atop one of Rome's seven hills, the Esquiline, it has survived many restorations without losing its character as an early Roman basilica. Its interior retains three naves divided by colonnades in the style of Constantine's era. Fifth-century mosaics on its walls testify to its antiquity. St. Mary Major is one of the four Roman basilicas known as patriarchal churches in memory of the first centers of the Church. St. John Lateran represents Rome, the See of Peter; St. Paul Outside the Walls, the See of Alexandria, allegedly the see presided over by Mark; St. Peter's, the See of Constantinople; and St. Mary's, the See of Antioch, where Mary is supposed to have spent most of her later life. One legend, unreported before the year 1000, gives another name to this feast: Our Lady of the Snows. According to that story, a wealthy Roman couple pledged their fortune to the Mother of God. In affirmation, she produced a miraculous summer snowfall and told them to build a church on the site. The legend was long celebrated by releasing a shower of white rose petals from the basilica's dome every August 5. Reflection Theological debate over Christ's nature as God and man reached fever pitch in Constantinople in the early fifth century. The chaplain of Bishop Nestorius began preaching against the title Theotokos, “Mother of God,” insisting that the Virgin was mother only of the human Jesus. Nestorius agreed, decreeing that Mary would henceforth be named “Mother of Christ” in his see. The people of Constantinople virtually revolted against their bishop's refutation of a cherished belief. When the Council of Ephesus refuted Nestorius, believers took to the streets, enthusiastically chanting, “Theotokos! Theotokos!” Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media