Shows
Ad Jesum per MariamJesus Tells His Disciples and Us: If You Want to Be Great . . .Jesus Tells His Disciples and Us: If You Want to Be Great . . .
Often in our discussions, we talk about the greatest.
The greatest athlete in a specific sport, like soccer, basketball or football. There is even a greatest hot dog eater as per the July 4th competition!
If we are honest with ourselves, we all want to be great! It is the reason we work hard. It is the reason we endure many sleepless nights to make ourselves better. There is nothing wrong with being great. However, if our obsession to be great is at the expense of others, then...2024-09-2416 min
Ad Jesum per MariamReading Through the Declaration on Human Dignity Part 5: Moving Forward With the TeachingReading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity
This audio is Part 5 of 5: Moving Forward with this Teaching. See all the titles within this conference below.
Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.
“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the belief t...2024-05-301h 27
Ad Jesum per MariamReading Through the Declaration on Human Dignity Part 4Reading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity
This audio is Part IV: Threats to Human Dignity: Part 2 of 2: See all the titles within this conference below.
Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.
“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the beli...2024-05-281h 31
Ad Jesum per MariamThreats to Human Dignity - Part 1 of 2Reading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity
This audio is Part III: Threats to Human Dignity: Part 1 of 2: See all the titles within this conference below.
Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.
“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the beli...2024-05-161h 31
Ad Jesum per MariamReading Through the Declaration on Human Dignity - Part 2 - Learning to Live in a Dignified WayReading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity
This audio is Part II: Learning to Live in a Dignified Way. See all the titles within this conference below.
Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.
“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the b...2024-05-081h 10
Ad Jesum per MariamReading Through Dignitas Infinita Part I - A Correct Understanding on Human DignityReading Through Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity : Part I
Dignitas Infinita (which means Infinite Dignity) is a 2024 declaration on Catholic doctrine that outlines the importance of human dignity, explains its connection to God.
“Dignitas Infinita – The Declaration on Human Dignity” is a profound testament to the intrinsic worth and rights of every individual. Crafted as a guiding beacon for ethical and moral conduct, it articulates the fundamental principles that uphold human dignity across diverse cultural, social, and philosophical landscapes. Rooted in the belief that every person possesses inherent value and deserves respect, the declaration addresses key facets of human ex...2024-05-021h 25
Ad Jesum per MariamOur Lady and the History of Salvation: A Reflection During this Time of Advent and Christmas SeasonsOur Lady and the History of Salvation: A Reflection During this Time of Advent and Christmas Seasons
As we adorn our homes and offices with Nativity sets during this Advent and Christmas Seasons, . . .
it is helpful to meditate at some point on Our Lady and the History of Salvation. Our Lady fits in the Almighty’s Plan for Salvation in a unique way.
This reflection was given on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. On this day the Lord built a worthy dwelling for His Son.
Listen to this reflection, especially during this time of year, and understand Our Lady’s Ro...2022-12-0937 min
Ad Jesum per MariamGod Wants You to Hope for Great Things in GodGod Wants You to Hope for Great Things in God
Today has a remarkable set of readings. We hear a remarkable statement.
Blessed are they who hope in the Lord. One might question why this is so remarkable. We have heard this numerous times. Yes, it is true, but what makes it remarkable?
Many of us who are Christians, frankly, do not know How to Hope! A real Hope in God is often lacking in Christians. St. Louis de Montfort wrote a letter to the future priests of The Company of Mary. He says, Fear Not. But that is not...2022-12-0522 min
Ad Jesum per MariamHow Do We Know Who Gets Into Heaven?How Do We Know Who Gets Into Heaven?
The readings over the weekdays, and Sundays, of the Advent season are connected and deliberately chosen by the Church.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us, not everybody who looks at Him and says Lord, will enter into Heaven. This cuts across the grain of a shallow Christianity; one that says once you call Jesus Lord that you’re good and will go to Heaven. Jesus tells us . . . not so fast!
There is a way of saying . . . Jesus, You are the Lord . . . which is empty and false, and actually shuts one out of H...2022-12-0522 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Grace We Seek During the Second Week of AdventThe Grace We Seek During the Second Week of Advent
In the first week of advent, we ask for a specific grace.
The grace of resolve or firmly commit to running and greeting the Lord during His Coming with good deeds in our hands. The Advent season begins, not with a passive waiting for the Lord to come, but a preparation to meet Him when He comes. A preparation that requires us to move freely and not to arrive to the Lord empty handed.
Today is the Second Sunday of Advent. It asks for a grace that builds upon the...2022-12-0530 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSt. Catherine of Alexandria: A Model of Virtue and LearningSt. Catherine of Alexandria: A Model of Virtue and Learning
Today’s Gospel underscores how difficult it is to understand the signs given to us by the Lord.
It is important that Christians not to pre-occupy their daily lives with understanding signs. The Lord tells us everyone will not know the day or the hour of His Coming! The ambiguity is important. If you were able to know the date, many people would say I do not have to worry until just before the date. Jesus tells us more, listen to the Homily.
St. Catherine of Alexandria
Today, we celebrate a...2022-11-2825 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Lord Talks about Drowsiness and its Impacts On Our Spiritual LifeThe Lord Talks about Drowsiness and its Impacts On Our Spiritual Life
Be careful that your hearts do not become drowsy.
This is an interesting expression the Lord utilizes within the Gospel. Think about . . . what it is to feel drowsy. Not to be asleep, but want to sleep. Don’t let your hearts become drowsy. That does not mean . . . it is different than saying . . . sluggish, or indifferent. What does it mean? Hear more within the Homily.
Don’t let high energy living cause your heart to be drowsy. We all, perhaps, have experienced this at one time or another. High ener...2022-11-2820 min
Ad Jesum per MariamFirst Sunday of Advent: Preparing for His Second Coming and for Receiving the Grace of . . .First Sunday of Advent: We are Not Preparing for the Birth of Jesus. We are Preparing for His Second Coming and Preparing for Receiving the Grace of . . .
Many Christians confuse the meaning of Advent. We are not preparing for the birth of Jesus. We are not preparing for the Nativity. That happened two thousand years ago! We are Preparing to celebrate the Nativity. We are also Preparing for His Second Coming! We are Preparing to Ask for Grace. Grace for what?
Listen to the Gospel and Homily of the First Sunday of Advent. Understand what we are preparing for and...2022-11-2833 min
Ad Jesum per MariamGod Shows the Apostle John (and Us) A Glimpse of Heaven and His ThroneGod Shows the Apostle John (and Us) A Glimpse of Heaven and His Throne
The reading (not included within this audio) and the Gospel have a theme of showing us what is going to happen in the future.
In the reading, the Apostle John is told by the Voice, come and I will show you what is going to happen (from the Book of Revelation). This passage is often mis-understood to be a mere prediction on how history will unfold. Far from it! There is nothing about the unfolding of history on earth that is included within the reading. We...2022-11-2332 min
Ad Jesum per MariamMary Helps Zacchaeus and Helps Us Get Close to JesusMary Helps Zacchaeus and Helps Us Get Close to Jesus
In today’s reading (not included within this audio), we hear from the Book of Revelation.
We hear about letters to the early Church. There are a series of seven letters to the Church in Asia Minor (present age Turkey). The letters address specific events within the communities. They also address universal tendencies that one finds throughout the body of Christ. The Homily references two of the seven letters, that focus on shortcomings and dangers facing these communities.
Jesus tells the communities that the people appear to be alive . . . but th...2022-11-2219 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWho is St. Elizabeth of Hungary and Why Is She Important to the Church?Who is St. Elizabeth of Hungary and Why Is She Important to the Church?
How long does a cut flower last? Days, weeks, longer?
On this day we celebrate St. Elizabeth of Hungary. In our present day, Christians do not talk about this saint as much as other saints. Today, many Christians do not have a devotion to this saint.
The Church requires the observance of this memorial. It is obligatory. Obligatory memorials are reserved for those that have had an important impact on the Church.
Padre Pio’s memorial is not obligatory. St. Louis de Montfort and St. Faustina ar...2022-11-2127 min
Ad Jesum per MariamHow Do We Retain the Word of God?How Do We Retain the Word of God?
The Homily begins mentioning the first reading (not included within this audio).
The Apostle John has a revelation. Heavenly bodies tell John to pick up a small scroll . . . and eat it. In your mouth it will taste very sweet. Strangely, the Heavenly body then says . . . your stomach will not like it. But, go ahead and eat it. John then eats the scroll. It is indeed pleasant in the mouth, but unsettles the stomach.
The Heavenly body then tells John . . . go and prophesy. That is, speak out of the bitterness of your stomach...2022-11-2128 min
Ad Jesum per MariamJesus Christ, King of the UniverseJesus Christ, the King of the Universe
Today, we celebrate a very special feast day.
The Church celebrates Jesus Christ, the King. The more complete title is the Feast of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Pause for a moment and consider that title. Hear what St. Paul tells us. Understand what this title means by listening to the Homily.
On this day the Church brings to a close the current liturgical year. The Church pauses and contemplates the Glorious Rule of Jesus, already in Heaven. A Rule that exists before there was an earth.
What is the Church asking...2022-11-2129 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWhat Does the Life to Come Look Like? It is NOT Just a Better Earthly Living!What Does the Life to Come Look Like? It is NOT Just a Better Earthly Living!
What Does the Life to Come Look Like? . . .
Today, there is a parallelism between the first reading (not included within this audio) and the Gospel.
The first reading from the Book of Maccabees, is similar to the Gospel in that it involves seven brothers. The Maccabees story of the seven brothers is a remarkable story. One brother after another, placed before the king to do something against his religion . . . against God . . . refuses and are then tortured and killed. Seven brothers die for the sake...2022-11-0727 min
Ad Jesum per MariamImitate the Person Who is Trying to Be Like JesusImitate the Person Who is Trying to Be Like Jesus!
The memorial celebrated this day is for St. Charles Borromeo.
He made a decision early within his life to be of service to the Church, rather than caring for his family’s considerable wealth. Uniquely, it was at the time of his own brother’s untimely death, that he made the final decision to become a priest. His brother was the heir to his family’s fortune. It was a bold move, because he was now the heir. He was set to inherit the title, the land and the wealth of his...2022-11-0721 min
Ad Jesum per MariamMakes Friends with Dis-honest Wealth! What is Jesus Telling Us?Makes Friends with Dis-honest Wealth! What is Jesus Telling Us?
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us to make Friends with Dis-honest Wealth!
What is dis-honest wealth? Many will think of a bank robber. Christians may think of several Gospel passages that might fit the definition. Specifically, the money changers, the tax collector, or even the dis-honest steward. Is that what Jesus is talking about?
What is dis-honest wealth? And why should we make friends with it? What is Jesus telling us? Why is understanding this topic is so important to our Spiritual Life? Listen to this Meditation Media.2022-11-0723 min
Ad Jesum per MariamUnderstand How Death Needs to Impact Our Spiritual LifeUnderstand How Death Needs to Impact Our Spiritual Life
There is a truth that is often off-putting. We are all, eventually, going to die.
It is a truth that the human heart often avoids. We do a lot to protect ourselves. We cloth ourselves in a way so that we do not get sick. We protect ourselves when we install security alarms. We visit doctors’ offices, especially as we get older. The Homily lists several other ways we protect ourselves.
We do all this protection, to keep us safe and to keep us alive. Yet we rarely reflect on death it...2022-11-0327 min
Ad Jesum per MariamJesus Tells Us That More is Happening Than Just Our Letting Go When Someone DiesJesus Tells Us That More is Happening Than Just Our Letting Go When Someone Dies
There is an ancient and beautiful prayer reflecting on the loss of a loved one and turning to God.
It begins beautifully. We seem to give them back to you O God . . . Who first gave them to us. We seem . . . The simple truth is God Who has given them . . . has never taken His hand off them. They have always been His.
The prayer catches a beautiful note on leave taking. We are saying good-bye. We are letting go. In a real way, especially as we...2022-11-0215 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWhat is Our Relationship With the Glorious Saints?What is Our Relationship With the Glorious Saints!
In speaking of devotion to the saints, it is important to understand who we are in the first place . . . and who they are in the second place.
Therefore, this All Saints Conference begins by looking at the Body of Christ itself.
Note the expression. The Church is the Mystical Body of Christ. St. Augustine helps us understand this expression further. He describes the whole Body of Christ this way. Jesus is the head. And we are the body’s members. Understand that there is a fundamental oneness. There is one life within th...2022-11-0239 min
Ad Jesum per MariamAll Saints and HolinessAll Saints and Holiness
All Saints Day. Today the Church honors All Saints.
We, of course, know about many of the saints. Only God knows all of the saints. Therefore, the Church sets aside this day to honor All Saints . . . past and present. In English, people normally associate Sainthood with Holiness. Christians normally associate holiness with people who lived long ago. Yet, the Catholic Church tells us our vocation, without exception, is our own call to holiness.
Listen to what we celebrate on this day and how it must . . . must . . . impact our own holiness and spiritual life.2022-11-0224 min
Ad Jesum per MariamNovember: Earning a Plenary Indulgence For Our Deceased Loved OnesNovember: Earning a Plenary Indulgence For Our Deceased Loved Ones
Today’s Gospel explains why we should pray . . .
. . . for our deceased loved ones. Why is that important? Why is praying today for someone who died recently, or decades ago, so important?
The Church opens its treasury from November 1st through and including November 8th, as described within this Homily. The power of prayer is explained for our deceased loved ones. What is an indulgence? What is a plenary indulgence? Why is it important?
Christians may say . . . I go to confession. I do not need to do this! Wrong! Understand what et...2022-10-3124 min
Ad Jesum per MariamLord, When Someone is Sick or Terrible Things Happen to Them . . . What Did They Do to Deserve This?Lord, When Someone is Sick or Terrible Things Happen to Them . . . What Did They Do to Deserve This?
Have you ever experienced a rough patch or a miserable time?
Have you then ever asked . . . what did I ever do to deserve this? Today’s Gospel answers these questions!
In the Gospel, people reported to Jesus about a tragedy that had happened. The question that lingers is . . . what did they do to bring this upon themselves? It’s a question almost everyone has . . .when something terrible happens. Its not normally a question one askes about another . . . it normally is asked when bad...2022-10-2822 min
Ad Jesum per MariamPersistence in Prayer. Moses Gives a Lesson For Us Today!Persistence in Prayer. Moses Gives a Lesson For Us Today!
In the first reading today (not included within this audio), we hear about Moses and the battle with the Amalekites.
We all heard this story in which Joshua leads men into battle. Moses, who is not a traditional soldier, climbs the mountain and holds up his arms and prays to heaven. Even in battle, there are times when there are more important things than just the soldiers.
As long as Moses prayed with his arms held high, the Israel warriors had the advantage. When his arms grew tied, the enemy...2022-10-2121 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Martyrs That Were Ready . . .The Martyrs That Were Ready . . .
In today’s Gospel, Jesus talks of a heavy beating and a light beating. Oh My! The Gospel is very appropriate today as the Church celebrates the special memorial of the Canadian martyrs. These martyrs are like the wise stewards that Jesus speaks about in the Gospel.
Jesus Christ Must Be Made Known
Jesus Christ Must Be Made Known. This was the reason Saints Isaac Jogues, Jean de Brébeuf, and Companions came to the new world . . . to New France in Canada.
In today’s world, we do not speak always about evangelism this way. We ma...2022-10-2120 min
Ad Jesum per MariamJesus Comes With A Fire Within. Understand How This Shapes Our Own Spiritual JourneyJesus Comes With A Fire Within. Understand How This Shapes Our Own Spiritual Journey
Jesus Comes With A Fire Within . . .
Today’s Gospel has shockingly sharp words that Jesus uses within this scripture passage.
The Gospel is Jesus telling all that he comes to bring division. A family of 5, 3 against 2. A Father against his son, and a son against his father, etc. Jesus says he has a desire to bring fire into the world. He longs for the fact that it is still not blazing. Wow! What a series of statements.
In speaking this way, Jesus reminds us He has co...2022-10-2123 min
Ad Jesum per MariamToday’s Gospel Is The Only Place In Scripture Where Jesus Says Who His Mother, Mary, Really Is!Today’s Gospel Is The Only Place In Scripture Where Jesus Says Who His Mother, Mary, Really Is!
The Gospel we hear today starts with a Women in the Crowd praising the Lord with a compliment . . . Blessed is the womb that bore you.
Jesus replied, . . . Rather, blessed are those that hear the word of God and observe it.
If a survey was possible asking Christians what their favorite Gospel reading are, it is unlikely today’s passage would rank very high. And that would be a shame. The passage we hear today is short, but important. It is the one spot...2022-10-1922 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWhy is Martha Burden With The Serving? What Is the Holy Spirit Telling Us?Why is Martha Burden With The Serving? What Is the Holy Spirit Telling Us?
The Gospel story today is about Martha and her sister Mary in the presence of the Lord.
Martha asks the Lord to tell Mary to help her with the serving of the house guests. We all have heard this story before. As is often the case, however, when we reflect upon this reading, the reflection turns to the defense of Martha. And that is dangerous!
The Holy Spirit has given us this story in the Gospel for a reason. Many often look at their own busyness...2022-10-1923 min
Ad Jesum per MariamOur World is Afflicted with the Inability to See the Fundamental Dignity of the LivingOur World is Afflicted with the Inability to See the Fundamental Dignity of the Living
Our World is Afflicted with the Inability to See . . .
The readings today focus on how clearly, we see.
How good is our vision? It is an important question as the Shrine prepares for its Novena for Life. The so called “Pro-Life” movement can be vulnerable to is a certain kind of tunnel vision. Vulnerable to a certain form of selective seeing. This is not surprising . . . since the human heart has been inflicted by this since the beginning of time.
The Homily today focuses not on the...2022-10-1830 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSt. Paul Reminds the Church in His Writing Not to Be Influenced by the Crowd Way of Thinking …St. Paul Reminds the Church in His Writing Not to Be Influenced by the Crowd Way of Thinking …
Have you ever been (or seen another) pressured to act in a way that is uncharacteristic?
Have you ever been tempted to do or say or try something . . . but you stop, because you wondered about what people might think?
The first reading (not included within this audio) is about that! St. Paul was writing to a Church. A group of believers were beginning to set down what was right and what was good. These believers wrote that others need to pray and pr...2022-10-1715 min
Ad Jesum per MariamA Priest’s Garments . . . A Sign to the People and A Sign To What a Priest Is All AboutA Priest’s Garments . . . A Sign to the People and A Sign To What a Priest Is All About
Depending upon the liturgical season, one might see the outer vestment of a priest and possibly remark how striking it is.
But most people may not see or understand all the components of the vestments and the symbols they represent.
A priest’s garments are a sign to the people and a sign to what priesthood is all about. Listen to this vestment explanation within this six-minute audio. Listen to this Meditation Media.2022-10-1706 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWhat Do I Take Back Home After Mass?What Do I Take Back Home After Mass?
What do you take back home with . . . after Mass?
This is not a normal question we ask ourselves. We come to Mass to hear the Word, and to receive the gift of the Holy Eucharist. But what do we leave Mass with . . . what do we take back home from Mass?
Listen to this Homily and ask yourself . . . What Do I Take Back Home After Mass?
Listen to this Meditation Media.2022-10-1521 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary . . . Understanding the Real Secret of the RosaryThe Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary . . . Understanding the Real Secret of the Rosary
The Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary has a remarkable history . . .
. . . in its connection with the Battle of Lepanto. The battle secured Europe’s Christendom on October 7, 1571. This victory was preceded by a call from the Holy Father the Pope to the entire European Church to pray the Rosary. While there was not a universal response to the call, there was a widespread response. The faithful gathered in parishes to call upon the intercession of Our Blessed Lady for the defense of the faith an...2022-10-1525 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSt Therese, The Little Flower. Why Does She Have This Title?St. Therese, The Little Flower. Why Does She Have This Title?
The Little Flower only lived for twenty-four years.
However, you would be hard pressed to not find this saint’s image (painting, window or statue) in today’s parishes. She is recognized, not only for her sainthood, but for her Holiness. She is one of only a few Doctors of the Church. When she wrote, she would describe things in spiritual terms very simplistically, so they may be understood.
But why is she known as The Little Flower? In this audio, listen to more about St. Therese. Hear more abou...2022-10-0326 min
Ad Jesum per MariamIf You Had the Faith the Size of a Mustard Seed . . .If You Had the Faith the Size of a Mustard Seed . . .
Lord, increase our faith!
Jesus then says, if you had the faith the size of a mustard seed … What exactly does Jesus mean when he tells the parable of the mustard seed? How do we really increase our faith? Listen to this Meditation Media on this parable.2022-10-0323 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Roles of Angels in the Coming of Christ Into the WorldThe Roles of Angels in the Coming of Christ Into the World
What was The Role Played by the Angels in the Coming of Christ into the World?
As we celebrate angels, have you ever meditated on that topic? When we concentrate on how angels are involved within sacred scripture, when we understand them, our reading and our meditation becomes different.
A classic example is the angel that comes to bring comfort to the Lord during the Agony in the Garden (see this beautiful painting here). One angel out of many angels takes on this great mission. When we meditate...2022-09-3047 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSt. Louis de Montfort: Apostle of the CrossSt. Louis de Montfort: Apostle of the Cross
Often Christians take sound bites or certain events from the life of a saint and focus on that event without appreciating the fullness of grace the Lord gave to the holy man or women.
In today’s world, St. Louis de Montfort is often referred to as the Consecration Saint. And while it is true, many Christians do not know about the fuller life of this holy man. When Montfort died, he was known as The Apostle of the Cross and the Apostle of the Rosary (in that order). On the Feast of...2022-09-2057 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWhat Are We Really Celebrating On the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows?What Are We Really Celebrating On the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows?
The Feast we celebrate today is Our Lady of Sorrows.
The feast may be summarized within two verses of a song sang that day. Is there anyone who would not weep? Upon looking at her, is there anyone who would not weep?
Can the human heart refrain from the Blessed Mother’s pain? These are two verses from a song for the day. However, the truth is many Christians do not participate. In easy for Christians to live in indifference for all that Christ has done for us...2022-09-2024 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSome of the Gestures and Symbolisms of the MassSome of the Gestures and Symbolisms of the Mass
Why do we bless ourselves before the Gospel?
We make a specific gesture immediately before the Gospel reading. Why? Hear more in the Homily given to pilgrims from a Catholic School.
Why does a priest use the Chalice? Can the priest use an ordinary cup? The answer is no, because there are specific Mass rules that prevent that. Hear more in the Homily.
Why do priests prepare the altar the way they do? What is the name of the cloth the priest spreads on the altar just before placing the chalice...2022-09-1921 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Accounting the Lord Will Look for Us on Judgement DayThe Accounting the Lord Will Look for Us on Judgement Day
Today’s lesson from the Gospel may be at first a strange lesson.
The Gospel tells the story about the steward who was not kind to the servants. When the master returns, he tells the steward to make an accounting . . . because he can no longer remain his steward.
Scripture continues and the steward brings in all who owed something to the master. He tore up notes and had them write new promissory notes for a lower amount. The steward did this to gain favor with the people who owed a...2022-09-1925 min
Ad Jesum per MariamChristians are Called to Be Better …Christians are Called to Be Better …
In St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians (not included within this audio),
we hear about the early Christian Community. St. Paul tells us they play favorites among the ministers. The community are quick to take legal actions against one another on events that do not necessarily require those actions.
It is as though St. Paul is holding up a mirror. Those struggles the Church has wrestled with over the centuries. St. Paul includes in his letter . . . I write this to shame you. He tells the community you are better than this. You are call...2022-09-1619 min
Ad Jesum per MariamDo You Really Want External Happiness? Do You Really Want to Be a Disciple?Do You Really Want External Happiness? Do You Really Want to Be a Disciple?
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us who can be His disciples . . . who can follow Him.
The Gospel begins with a great crowd following Jesus. Jesus at times in scripture leaves a message for the entire world. In this case the message was directed to the crowd following Him . . . who have been moving with Jesus.
This crowd has been growing in numbers . . . and Jesus addresses this crowd saying now you are ready for what I have to say to you. The Gospel teaches us . . . who is my...2022-09-1517 min
Ad Jesum per MariamHow Should We Live In The Horizon of the Second Coming? . . . I Listen So I May SeeHow Should We Live In The Horizon of the Second Coming? . . . I Listen So I May See
Listen and you will see.
Hear, and you will see. The senses are connected, but we do not typically think about that in our daily lives. I need to bend my ear to listen. But the fruit of listening, is the ability to see clearly. I am then able to see rightly. How is this connected, and how does it impact our spiritual journey? Listen to the Homily.
St. Paul in the reading (not included within this audio), and the Gospel, through his...2022-09-1323 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Lesson for Us of the Parable of the Prodigal Son … and 9/11The Lesson for Us of the Parable of the Prodigal Son … and 9/11
In today’s Gospel we hear three parables, The Lost Sheep, The Lost Coin, and the parable of the Lost Son … the parable of the Prodigal Son.
The homily touches upon the first two parables, and explores the third in detail. We all know this parable. However, Christians often miss what Our Lord is really saying in this parable. Listen to this story within the context of this Homily.
On a day we celebrate the remembrance of those impacted on the anniversary of the September 11th’s events, understa...2022-09-1340 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Maria BambinaThe Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Maria Bambina
It is important not to overlook the simple joys of life.
We celebrate today the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a day of joy. Life is beautiful. It is often overlooked. Life is joyous. The first gift we all receive on our birthday, is the gift of having been born. Hear more about this joy in the Homily.
The Church celebrates today one of three birthdays. Of all the holy men and women, the Church celebrates only three earthly birthdays. Saints are celebrated, normally on their birth into...2022-09-1224 min
Ad Jesum per MariamBefore We Turn to the Lord, Jesus Sees Us!Before We Turn to the Lord, Jesus Sees Us!
In the book of Genesis, Jacob rested under the open sky.
On that night he had a dream in which he saw a golden ladder extending from heaven to earth. On top of the ladder was the Lord. Ascending and descending on the ladder were the Angels of God. Awaking the next morning, Jacob erected an altar and he prayed. He named the place Bethel . . . House of God, the very gate of heaven.
The homily sets the tone in describing this dream, because Jesus references it in today’s Gospel. Jesus re...2022-09-0623 min
Ad Jesum per MariamYou Do Not Need to Be Frightened About Jesus’ Second Coming!You Do Not Need to Be Frightened About Jesus’ Second Coming!
The readings today talk about a certain kind of blindness ... spiritual blindness.
In the first reading (not included within this audio) St. Paul tells us something in one of his letters. He writes something disturbing, that has plagued Christians since the very beginning. That is, a pre-occupation of the day of the Lord’s return. Paul writes about “self-appointed prophets” that announce the return of the Lord will happen soon. St. Paul tells us this has been going on since his day. Even some of these prophets signed St. Paul’s n...2022-08-2525 min
Ad Jesum per MariamOn this Day a Son is Given to Us . . . and as a Result, We Also Belong to Him!On this Day a Son is Given to Us . . . and as a Result, We Also Belong to Him!
The Feast of the Queenship of Mary
On this Day a Son is Given to Us . . . and as a Result, We Also Belong to Him!
Strange title for a day in which we celebrate the Queenship!
At first glance, it also seems like an odd Gospel to have on the Feast of the Queenship of Our Lady. The Gospel is a dialogue between Jesus and His Father just before Our Lord’s Passion. Great as it is, how does that relate to th...2022-08-2318 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWe Can all be Blessed and Touched by Our Lord and be Filled with GraceWe Can All be Blessed and Touched by Our Lord and be Filled with Grace
In the first reading (not included within this audio) we hear from Our Lord through the prophet Ezekiel, that often is a source of struggle for the human heart. The Lord says none of you are merely a victim of circumstances (either good circumstances, or bad).
We all realize there are those that are born into this world with certain advantages, and some are born with certain disadvantages. The emphasis the Lord makes through His prophet, the evil done in your household before you . . . does...2022-08-2317 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe First Shall Be Last and the Last Will Be FirstThe First Shall Be Last and the Last Will Be First
The prophet Ezekiel is not always very popular.
In the first reading (not included within this audio), the prophet’s words might be considered harsh … even considered by some as kicking someone when they are down.
The prophet speaks to the people of Israel. These people have been deported as the result of war. Instead of a word of kindness, the prophet rebukes the Jewish people. Not to all people, but a rebuke to the shepherds. A rebuke of the priests. A rebuke of the rulers and nobles.
The Lord...2022-08-1926 min
Ad Jesum per MariamImagining the Wonderment and Joy in Heaven on the Day of the Assumption of Our LadyImagining the Wonderment and Joy in Heaven on the Day of the Assumption of Our Lady!
Mary set out in haste to the hillside . . . to go higher.
Today’s amazing Gospel reading is remarkable. We hear Mary went to visit her cousin Elizabeth. Jesus is clothed, hidden within Mary as she sets forth on her journey. Jesus is hidden … but present. As Mary arrives at her cousin’s home, so too does Jesus.
Today, we celebrate another going up of Our Lady. Our Lady is always moving upward with a certain haste. Her Spirit . . . Her Heart is always elevated. She is alw...2022-08-1825 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Love of Husband and Wife Shows the World the Love of God for His PeopleThe Love of a Husband for His Wife, and the Love of Wife for Her Husband Shows the World the Love of God for His People
The readings today place the issue of marriage before us, but not in a legalistic way.
We are tempted to see marriage in legal terms from the scripture, but the readings present a broader picture of marriage.
In the first reading (not included within this audio), marriage is talked about in terms of Jesus’ relationship with Jerusalem. In a blunt way, the Lord speaks through the prophet to the city of Jerusalem. The Lord sa...2022-08-1524 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Father is Pleased to Bestow the Kingdom of God on You!The Father is Pleased to Bestow the Kingdom of God on You!
Much will be required of the person entrusted with much.
And still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.
Often, scripture tells us stories that are off putting or upsetting. Often, these stories come from Jesus Himself. It is good to remind the human heart of this . . . because humans like religion that is safe. We like religion that is consoling . . . and certainly like religion that is uplifting. We also like religion when it does not ask too much from us. But, . . . that is not real...2022-08-1526 min
Ad Jesum per MariamCast Your Net Toward JesusCast Your Net Toward Jesus
The Lord says, within the Gospel, the Angels will separate the good from the bad . . .
Do you understand? In the Gospel, as it is with today’s passage, it is remarkable when the Lord asks a question. Often it is both the question and the answer that are remarkable. Often the is deeper than what appears on first glance.
The Kingdom of Heaven is like a net cast out into the sea, says the Lord. The point of casting the net is to catch something. The net catches all. It catches the good. It catches th...2022-08-0824 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Lord sent His disciples into the rough sea. Why?The Lord Sent His Disciples into the Rough Sea. Why?
To understand more fully the Gospel today, . . .
. . . one needs to pause and contemplate what the Lord says through the prophet Jeremiah in the first reading (not included within this media). The Lord begins with the radical woundedness that resides within His people. The woundedness is further described within the Homily.
The Lord tells us that He did this to you! Woe! That is a troubling statement. I did this to you (plant the seeds of woundedness within you) because of your many sins, . . . because of how you were living. The...2022-08-0824 min
Ad Jesum per MariamDrawn to Jesus, the Woman Asks Jesus for HelpDrawn to Jesus, the Woman Asks Jesus for Help
In the first reading (not included in this media), the Lord says . . .
. . . I will be the Lord over all the tribes of Israel. At the time the Lord said this, for over a century, most of the tribes of Israel no longer exists. Only the small kingdom of Judea still exists. For the other tribes, they no longer exist. Their people deported. Foreigners took their place living in these lands. They are the famous lost tribes of Israel. So, imagine the force behind the Lord’s statement!
The tribes did not ex...2022-08-0522 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThose that do the will of God are My Brothers and My Sisters . . .Those that do the will of God are My Brothers and My Sisters . . .
On the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, today’s scripture has a tone of a note of belonging.
The Homily discusses the first reading (not included within this audio). The reading first calls upon all to rejoice. But rejoice for a reason. The reason? That God will come and dwell with us! This is what the prophet tells us! Rejoice! It’s not just a proclamation of what is to come. Rejoice in how wonderous this is! That God will come and abide with us. List...2022-07-1822 min
Ad Jesum per MariamI Will Not Turn My Back On You Says The Lord!I Will Not Turn My Back On You Says The Lord!
Love by its essence, longs to be received.
In both the first reading (not included within the audio) and the Gospel are messages of love. What parent hasn’t longed to have their love received by someone? Often, we are hurt by someone who we love. We are hurt not because love is extended . . . but because the love extended was not received.
Often, we see the very people we love turn their back on us . . . and our love. At times, this might result in anger. This is what has ha...2022-07-1317 min
Ad Jesum per MariamIsaiah’s Experience With the Angels vs. Our Blessed Mother’s ExperienceIsaiah’s Experience With the Angels vs. Our Blessed Mother’s Experience
In the first reading, the call of the prophet Isaiah and the Annunciation story in the Gospel, the common theme is to wake-up. The Word must be heard by someone who is awake and alert.
Isaiah had a vision as the angels shouted Holy, Holy, Holy. Note how the Mass echoes those words. Today’s Homily initially focuses on the Mass. The prayers are not primarily directed toward Heaven. There are certain exclamations that we say to one-another at Mass. Why? To remind ourselves of the Greatness, the Goodne...2022-07-1115 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Lord Asks Us to Pay Attention to Him!The Lord Asks Us to Pay Attention to Him!
In the first reading (not included within this audio set), we hear a number of statements that anticipates (by nearly 800 years) what happens in the events of Good Friday!
The prophet proclaims the injustice and shallow worship of the northern kingdom in Israel. He looks to the events of Good Friday. He also talks of things to come down to our present day!
He talks about Christians in terms of what happens on Sunday. The prophet says its curious on Feast days, many Christians count down the time until it’s ov...2022-07-0720 min
Ad Jesum per MariamJesus Tells Us: Go and Christ’s Presence will Soon FollowJesus Tells Us: Go and Christ’s Presence will Soon Follow
Jesus Tells Us: Go . . .
In today’s Gospel, Jesus sends 72 disciples out into the world with specific instructions.
While it might appear at first to be just a Gospel story about the early Church, it is also a command for us! Jesus, upon His disciples return, tells them not to rejoice because spirits respond to their prayers and commands, but that your name is written in Heaven!
The Homily begins by announcing to the Mass attendees that there are two priests who will be visiting and preaching at the Shri...2022-07-0522 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Prophet Amos Tells Us: Stop Listening to Lesser Voices!The Prophet Amos Tells Us: Stop Listening to Lesser Voices!
The Prophet Amos Tells Us: . . .
In the first reading, the prophet Amos talks to those that oppose Israel, the enemy of Israel. Amos lived around 760 BC. He tells us about what will happen to the enemies . . . the consequences of what has been done wrong.
Amos, after telling all what will happen, turns to those who are in the great Temple. Those that have come to pray. He addresses the king and to all of the people who have listen to what Amos said to the enemies of Israel.
Amos turns...2022-07-0226 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: What Is It and Why Is It Important?The Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: What Is It and Why Is It Important for our Spiritual Journey?
On this day the Church celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Our Lady.
So, with this feast day’s name, one could rightfully ask, what does it mean to celebrate a heart? Further, what does it mean to have a Devotion to the Immaculate Heart? For many, when we hear the word heart, we fall into the trap of thinking about a Hallmark moment. Many equate the heart as sentimental . . . about feelings; and specifically, good feelings. That is no...2022-06-2825 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWe are in Ordinary TimesWe are in Ordinary Times
We are in . . .
With the events of the last few weeks on the news, one might not think these are ordinary times.
However, to the Church, these days are called Ordinary Times. Lent, the Passion, Easter, Pentecost and several feast days have recently concluded. By doing so, we now enter Ordinary Times.
Ordinary does not mean it is not special. Far from it. Ordinary has a very specific meaning in the Catholic context. It means put into good order. Hear more why this is significant as it relates to the readings and the Gospel over...2022-06-2721 min
Ad Jesum per MariamI Will Satisfy Your Hunger . . . How the Miracle of the Loafs Relates to Us Today.I Will Satisfy Your Hunger . . . How the Miracle of the Loaves Relates to Us Today
Have you ever felt that you absolutely have no energy left?
You may have felt that you have reach your limits. You possibly even feel overwhelmed. Linger with that image as the Church celebrates a beautiful mystery today . . . the Body and Blood of Our Lord.
The Gospel today is one of the accounts of Our Lord feeding the multiples of people who came to hear Him. It begins simply. Jesus has been teaching and has been healing the people. One might think that would be...2022-06-2618 min
Ad Jesum per MariamCalling Upon the LordCalling Upon the Lord
This audio starts with Kings 2, and then moves into the Homily. The Homily’s focus is largely on this reading, so the Gospel for this day is not included within this audio set.
The first reading is based in what we now know as Northern Iraq. The empire had conquered the surrounding states. Often, the local culture was near extermination as the result of the battles.
We hear in the homily the Assyrian army entered into Northern Israel, conquered it, and deported its people. Other people then settled into the lands of Northern Israel. The lost tr...2022-06-2525 min
Ad Jesum per MariamUnderstanding and Celebrating the Role, Connection and Greatness of St. John the BaptistUnderstanding and Celebrating the Role, Connection and Greatness of St. John the Baptist
In scripture, we are told of several births (the Homily lists many). But the Church only celebrates three people. Our Lord, the Virgin Mary, . . . and St. John the Baptist.
We do not celebrate the birthday of the disciple Jesus loved. The Church does not celebrate St. Joseph’s birthday. The Church also does not celebrate St. Peter’s or St. Paul’s, or any other saint’s birthday. The Church celebrates saints’ and others’ birth into glory, but not their birthday on earth.
This fact should tell us something...2022-06-2523 min
Ad Jesum per MariamJesus’ Mind and Heart Works Different Than Ours . . . Feast of Sacred Heart of JesusJesus’ Mind and Heart Works Different Than Ours . . . Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
How different the mind and heart of Jesus is compared to our own!
Today’s Gospel is about the lost sheep. A single lost sheep. There are ninety-nine other sheep that Jesus leaves. Why? We certainly, most of us, would rather lose one sheep than jeopardize the flock of 99. Yet, Jesus says who among us would not go after the lost sheep. Wait. What is Jesus telling us!
Today is the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Understand what we are really celebrating on this...2022-06-2422 min
Ad Jesum per MariamBe Perfect, Just as Your Heavenly Father is Perfect!Be Perfect, Just as Your Heavenly Father is Perfect!
Jesus says, be perfect. It is demanding and challenging. Jesus is speaking on two levels. The first is aspirational. Aspire to be perfect!
The second level: do more than aspire. Actually, try and do it. The Homily explains further on both levels what Jesus is demanding. Jesus is not saying be absolutely flawless tomorrow. Hear exactly what Jesus is demanding and the implications for us and our spiritual journey.
Be better than the world around you! Wow. What a statement! Think about it. Many Christians are no better than the world...2022-06-2114 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSeeing My Spirit . . . Elijah Tells Us Something for Our Own SpiritualitySeeing My Spirit . . . Elijah Tells Us Something for Our Own Spirituality
In today’s first reading (not included in this audio), we hear about Elisha and Elijah.
Elijah is taken to heaven in a fiery chariot. Before that, the two are walking and are followed by 50 guild prophets. The Homily goes on to talk about the types of prophets. There are more than one kind of prophet.
The Homily goes on and talks about the guild prophets that were following Elijah and Elisha. Guild prophets were largely prophets that supported themselves . . . a sort of profession . . . by prophesying. This profession exists to...2022-06-1727 min
Ad Jesum per MariamJesus Prays . . . May They Be OneJesus Prays . . . May They Be One
In the first reading (not included within this audio), the Jewish leaders accuse St. Paul and bring legal proceedings.
The Romans concerned with what is going on, get involved also. The Romans are trying to understand what is causing such anger that it threatens the peace over the city.
The Homily tries to explain what is going on, by relating several examples in today’s world. Paul says he is a Jew, but he is being attacked because he believes in . . . and preaches about . . . the Resurrection of Jesus. Some Jewish tribes did not believe in...2022-06-1422 min
Ad Jesum per MariamUnderstand What Jesus Expects from All of Us!Understand What Jesus Expects from All of Us!
Today’s Gospel presents Jesus as not nice (as we use the word today). Jesus demands something from us! He expects something. The Lord tells His people that He has expectations from His people. Unless your righteousness of the Scribes, you will not enter the kingdom of Heaven.
We all need to pause and remember, Heaven is not guaranteed, nor is it our right. We must remember, that it is a gift.
The Lord insists that we live up to the level of the gift. Heaven is not to be taken lightly. He...2022-06-1321 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Holy Spirit Has Given Each of Us a Special Gift . . . for the Use of OthersThe Holy Spirit Has Given Each of Us a Special Gift . . . for the Use of Others!
An invisible Christianity . . . is no Christianity, the Lord tells us.
Jesus tells His disciples that you have been given something. If you give yourself to something else . . . you can lose the goodness that has been given you.
Jesus then talks about the Light within the Gospel. Elsewhere, He says He is the Light of the world. In this Gospel He tells his disciples they are the light of the world. Light must be visible and recognizable . . . or, it is no good.
You Are The...2022-06-1020 min
Ad Jesum per MariamPentecost Sunday: The Birth of the ChurchPentecost Sunday: The Birth of the Church
The Gospel and readings show a single location on two different Sundays.
In the Gospel, it is the evening of the first day of the week . . . on Easter Sunday. The Lord arrives at a room. The place of the Great Super . . . the Last Super on the night before He died. In the room is His disciples . . . the Church. They are locked inside to keep the dangers of the world outside.
It is into this room, that the Lord arrives on Easter Sunday. There is great joy! His risen presence breaks the fear of...2022-06-0817 min
Ad Jesum per MariamReflections of Mary, Queen of All HeartsReflections of Mary, Queen of All Hearts
Saint Augustine tells us Our Lady conceived the Word in her heart first, and then in her womb.
The Church goes on to tell us further, Our Lord resides in Mary’s womb only for a short time (nine months). However, Our Lord never leaves Mary’s Heart.
Hear more about the Reflections of Mary, Queen of All Hearts in this brief (4 Minute) audio captured as part of the ninth and final day of the Queen of All Hearts’ Pentecost Novena.
Listen to this brief Meditation Media2022-06-0804 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Fifth GospelThe Fifth Gospel
The day before Pentecost Sunday has some special readings.
The first reading (not included in this audio) has St. Paul in prison. In the Acts of the Apostles, more than any other scripture writing, the scenes involve prison and prison breaks. In fact, this writing deals with imprisonment. Most Christians do not think of their faith in terms of imprisonment.
The Imprisonment and Faith
When you think about it further, the Ester Season begins, in a way, with imprisonment. The Lord’s body resides in the prison of the grave, and escapes this prison with his Resurrection. He...2022-06-0820 min
Ad Jesum per MariamConference #1- The History and Meaning of Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of MaryConference #1- The History & Meaning of Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary is Centuries Old
When we hear the words Immaculate Heart of Mary in our present age, most will think of Our Lady of Fatima. It is understandable, but historically Devotion to the Immaculate Heart is older than Fatima. To understand this Devotion to the Immaculate Heart, one needs to travel back into the history of the Church.
During this retreat there will be references to Fatima, but this conference begins with framing the Devotion to provide an additional context.
What...2022-06-071h 00Ad Jesum per MariamConference #2: The First Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart: AdorationConference #2: The First Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Adoration
This is the second conference of Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. This and the next two conferences will focus on the practices associated with the Devotion. This conference focuses largely on Adoration.
Our Lady’s Heart is the Abode of the Lord
First, a revisit to some of the images presented in the first conference. St. Augustine observed . . . Mary conceived the Word in her heart, before she conceived the Lord in her womb. The Church then amplifies this observation as follows. The Lord remained in...2022-06-071h 08
Ad Jesum per MariamConference #3: The Second Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart: ReparationConference #3: The Second Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Reparation
There is a much earlier connection to the Reparation to the Heart of Mary than Fatima. Indeed, it was written in the early 1600s, over 250 years before Fatima. In fact, there are prayers to the atonement to her heart also written in the 1600s.
Why Does Our Lady Appear at Fatima?
Why does Our Lady appear at Fatima? It was not to give chilling warnings. She doesn’t come to give a dark warning of danger! Mary shows the children the vision of hell. Why? To sh...2022-06-0754 min
Ad Jesum per MariamConference #4: The Third Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart: ConsecrationConference #4: The Third Practice Associated with Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Consecration
The Pope’s Consecration of the World to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
In October 1942, something important happened. It was a little more than twenty-five years after the events of Fatima. Much was happening on this date. Millions had already died in World War II. Germany was advancing across North Africa to the Suez Canal. The Germans had invaded Russia. Most of Europe was under Germany’s brutal domination. In the Pacific, the Japanese had invaded China and was expanding across the Pacific. Evil mushroomed in the...2022-06-071h 10
Ad Jesum per MariamConference #5: Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: The Song of Mary’s HeartConference #5: Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary: The Song of Mary’s Heart
Benediction Meditation: The Song of Mary’s Heart
One of the ways the Church speaks of the Heart of Our Lady, is that it is like the heart of king David. It is an instrument that makes inspired praise of the great things of God. This conference offers some reflections on the song within Our Lady’s Heart.2022-06-0713 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSuffering at the Service of Joy! What Does that Mean?Suffering at the Service of Joy! What Does that Mean?
Upuntil today’s readings, the last thing you would think St. Paul would need is a word of encouragement.
We seen him beaten and thrown into prison. Scripture tells us of his singing in prison. We seen him stoned. Yet today’s reading (not included within this audio), the Lord comes to him in a vision and says, do not be afraid.
The Holy Spirit, through St. Luke in the Act of the Apostle, tells us St. Paul has received a regular consoling presence on the part of the Lord. The...2022-05-3118 min
Ad Jesum per MariamJesus is One With the Father . . . and . . .Jesus is One with the Father . . . and . . .
In the Gospel we hear that Jesus is praying on Holy Thursday night.
Jesus prays to His Father. It rises from His heart . . . to His Father. The Lord, who could ask for anything, . . . asks for just one thing. This one thing must be important . . . because He asks on the night before His Passion. It must be a great thing.
If anyone prays the night before one dies, all of the superficial things fall away. Only the things that mean the most would remain. The night before He dies, Jesus prays. He prays in...2022-05-3118 min
Ad Jesum per MariamToward a Pro-Life Future in the Empire StateToward a Pro-Life Future in the Empire State
On this day, the Most Rev. John O. Barres, Bishop of Rockville Center, gave the Homily at the Shrine.
This day was special as the New York State’s Knights of Columbus, as well as councils across Long Island, attended Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady.
The Homily may be segmented into three parts (with the approximate times listed below). The Gospel (0 – 1:15) precedes the first section of the Homily (1:24 – 2:55) and greets the Spanish speaking Knights of Columbus and Spanish attendees.
How Our Lady of Fatima’s Message is Relevant Today
The second s...2022-05-1824 min
Ad Jesum per MariamI am the Light of the World! How will you respond?I am the Light of the World! How will you respond?
As the Apostles started their mission in spreading the news of the Gospels, we often do not realize that early in the process, the Apostles spoke in the synagogues.
There were many more synagogues outside of Judea than in Judea. In Greek cities, there were synagogues, and Jews who spoke Greek. St. Paul arrives at various Greek cities, but they are not complete strangers. While the Church begins its mission speaking in the synagogues, it will soon step out beyond them. The Homily provides more details.
I Have Not...2022-05-1720 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSt. Matthias, the Apostolic Witness and . . . part of the Divine PlanSt. Matthias, the Apostolic Witness and . . . part of the Divine Plan
St. Matthias often is considered an afterthought Apostle.
We likely have heard of him, but many do not know much about him. He is most definitely, not an afterthought. We hear from St. Peter that another coming into the twelfth spot was anticipated. The Lord knows of this . . . and it was mentioned in the Psalms.
St. Matthias is not an accident of history. It should be viewed as part of the Divine Plan. The Homily tells us about St. Peter and the will of God for another to take...2022-05-1622 min
Ad Jesum per MariamFatima, Despite Tens of Thousands Seeing the Miracle, is a Private Revelation!Fatima, Despite Tens of Thousands Seeing the Miracle, is a Private Revelation!
We hear sounds all arounds us.
We rarely pause . . . just to really listen. The sounds and messages we hear often distracts from the words we should hear. The Word of the Lord.
Fatima, despite the fact that tens of thousands of people saw the Miracle of the Sun, was not a public revelation. That is hard to believe. Despite the messages given . . . it was not a public revelation! It is a private revelation.
Why is it not a public revelation? Because public revelations stopped with the last Apostle...2022-05-1623 min
Ad Jesum per MariamHow does one know if you are part of His flock?How does one know if you are part of His flock?
Who are the members of Our Lord’s flock?
We hear the echo of last Sunday’s Good Shepherd scripture. Jesus uses this title . . . and it does not appear out of nowhere. Moses was a shepherd, tending the flock of his father-in-law when he saw the burning bush. David, the great king, was at one time . . . a shepherd boy. Psalms reference “we are His people, the Shepherd of His flock”. The Lord Himself describes Himself as the Good Shepherd.
So the question that arises is . . . who is Your flock? That is...2022-05-1616 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWhat Does Jesus Think . . . of Motherhood?What Does Jesus Think . . . of Motherhood?
This is the fourth Sunday of Easter.
It is a day that the Church reminds us the victory of the Resurrection is not only a victory for Jesus, but a victory that involves us! Why this day is special and what it means within the Church is briefly discussed.
During the Homily a different view of the Good Shepherd is discussed referring to an icon. The icon appears on the website's post. Examine it while the homily refers to the icon.
What Does Jesus Think . . . of Motherhood?
The Church doesn’t directly celebrate Mother’s Da...2022-05-1418 min
Ad Jesum per MariamWho ever sees Me . . . you have seen the FatherWho ever sees Me . . . you have seen the Father
The Apostolic Nature of the Church.
After 2000 years of history, we need to be periodically reminded. It is important to recall just where the Apostolic witness comes from and what it consists.
If one was to explain . . . who is Jesus, where would you start? Why is He important? Where do you begin to explain? The resurrection is the starting point of the Apostolic witness of the Church. The Apostolic witness is from those who encountered Jesus risen from the dead.
This is where one begins. The Apostles’ witness. Hear more within th...2022-05-0919 min
Ad Jesum per MariamIf the Apostles Stayed in Jerusalem . . . How Did the Good News Spread? Deacon Phillip Was One WayIf the Apostles Stayed in Jerusalem . . . How Did the Good News Spread? Deacon Phillip Was One Way
We recently heard about St. Stephen. A Deacon, and a Jew, he went out as a disciple.
Upon preaching, he was stoned to death. There is a certain tolerance of mob violence in Israel, under Roman rule. The Jewish leaders previously said we do not have the authority to put someone to death (in the case of Jesus). On the other hand . . . there are numerous cases of people getting stoned.
The mob violence is a combination of lawlessness and lawfulness. Mob violence and...2022-05-0922 min
Ad Jesum per MariamChrist Charges Peter . . . The Rock of the ChurchChrist Charges Peter
In today’s Gospel there is more than one fishing expedition.
It is important for our own spirituality to understand that. We hear that St. Peter, and the other disciples went fishing and caught nothing all night. As light was starting to shine, Jesus was on the shoreline. He said to the disciples, cast your nets over the right side of the boat. They did and ultimately caught 153 large fish.
This is the lesser of the two fishing expeditions. A long night that produced nothing. This might sound very familiar for us all! In our own prayer, as...2022-05-0624 min
Ad Jesum per MariamNicodemus . . . is He Seeking the Lord . . . or Merely Curious?Nicodemus . . . is He Seeking the Lord . . . or Merely Curious?
Was He A Saint . . . Or Merely Curious?
Nicodemus is a fascinating character in scripture.
He appears by name, only in St. John’s Gospel. Nicodemus appears early in St. John’s Gospel (cf: Jn 3) as a member of the Jewish leaders. He is curious about Jesus and comes to Him at night . . . in the darkness.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to Nicodemus and he learns from Him. Later in St. John’s Gospel, Nicodemus stands up against the other leaders. Yet as he is challenged by the leaders, he says nothing...2022-05-0322 min
Ad Jesum per MariamSt. Peter and St. John Healing and Preaching . . . in the Name of JesusSt. Peter and St. John Healing and Preaching . . . in the Name of Jesus
. . . in the Name of Jesus
Today, two thousand years after the birth of Christ, . . .
Christian believers think all Jewish people of the time celebrated the same way. Not so! For example, there were pockets of Jewish people that did not believe in the resurrection. Other pockets did believe. So for some pockets of Jewish people at that time, Jesus was doubly problematic. They disagreed that He was the Son of God. Obviously, many did not believe that. They also did not believe in the Resurrection news of...2022-05-0320 min
Ad Jesum per MariamThe Point Where Heaven Touches EarthThe Point Where Heaven Touches Earth
On the Feast of St. Louis de Montfort (April 28th) we honor our Savior. We honor our Savior, the Word Who Became Flesh, yet He could not speak as an infant. He had to grow into speaking. We honor the Savior, the very Presence of God, Who hid Himself for thirty years.
Over these seven weeks of Easter, we honor the Our Lord for His Resurrection, He, Who does not reveal His resurrection to the world. He is pleased to hide His resurrection in the voices of the Apostles and Disciples sent forth across...2022-05-0221 min
Ad Jesum per MariamReflections: How to Grow in SpiritualityReflections: How to Grow in Spirituality
For anyone interested in growing in Montfortian Spirituality, the French School of Spirituality, for which Fr, de Montfort was the last from that school, has a starting point from which one prays.
It consists of the coupling of two things we Christians do not normally put together.
In scripture we often hear about Jesus . . . the servant. Jesus came into this world to serve. The homily goes on to describe this further. However, scripture also tells us of the times Jesus is at prayer. Several examples are cited.
The French School of Spirituality states that...2022-05-0257 min