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Homilies from the National Shrine
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Homilies from the National Shrine

Author: The Marian Fathers

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These difficult times demand that we turn back to the beautiful mystery of who God is and what it means to be His cherished children. Listen in to the daily homilies from the Marian Fathers at the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy, including Fr. Chris Alar, Fr. Kaz Chwalek, and many more. May they help you to live by God’s will that you may play an active and effective role in a world whose wellbeing requires authentic Christian witness!
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The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120325.cfmAdvent invites us to wait—not passively, but with trust. As Fr. Tyler Mentzer reflects on Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” he reminds us that God’s provision is never merely sufficient; it is abundant, verdant, and overflowing. In a world where we’re tempted to grasp, control, or hurry, Advent teaches us to rest in the “fertile pastures” where the Good Shepherd gives us repose.Fr. Tyler shows how the Lord’s generosity is revealed through Scripture: the prophecy of Isaiah, the miracles of Jesus, the multiplication of loaves, and the Eucharist—our “juicy, rich food” and “pure choice wine.” The Catechism teaches: “Hope is the confident expectation of divine blessing” (CCC 2090). Advent hope means trusting that God’s timing is perfect, His providence lavish, and His guidance steady—even in the “dark valley.”Like Jesus in the desert and on the Cross, we are invited to wait on the Father rather than take matters into our own hands. The fruit of this waiting is abundance, courage, resurrection life, and the promise that we “shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”Watch the full homily on YouTube, DivineMercyPlus.org, the DM+ app, and wherever you get your podcasts.Deepen your Advent with exclusive Catholic content on the free, ad-free Divine Mercy Plus streaming platform. Explore the Diary of St. Faustina and Understanding the Sacraments at ShopMercy.org.More resources available at the link in our bio.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #frtylermentzer #catholictiktok#advent #psalm23 #goodshepherd #eucharist #hope #waitingonGod #trustGod #CatholicHomily #dailyhomily #JesusChrist ★ Support this podcast ★
The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120225.cfmIn Proverbs 8, Scripture reveals a tender mystery: before the world began, the Eternal Son “was beside Him… playing before Him at all times.” Before creation, before the angels, Jesus rejoiced in the Father’s presence with the freedom of a child. Fr. Anthony reminds us that this childlike joy is not optional—it is essential to the spiritual life. “Unless you become like little children, you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven” (Mt 18:3).We work, plan, strategize, and try to control everything. But God models something different: on the seventh day He rested—not out of fatigue, but delight. He teaches us to receive, to enjoy, to play. Children do this naturally. They don’t resent the snow; they run into it with joy. They teach us spontaneity, hope, and wonder—dispositions that open the heart to grace.The saints lived this way. St. Therese taught her “little way” precisely because she recognized her own littleness and God’s greatness. St. Faustina wrote Diary only out of obedience, abandoning her own will for God’s. This surrender is the heart of Divine Mercy: “My will does not exist; now I do the will of God” (Diary).Childlikeness is not immaturity—it is spiritual clarity. It is trusting that God will truly provide everything, spiritually and materially. It is receiving Holy Communion with the joy of a child opening a Christmas gift. It is letting Jesus “clean the house” of your soul. It is learning to say with Mary: “Let it be done to me according to Your word.”Explore more Catholic teaching at DivineMercyPlus.org, and get the Diary of St. Faustina at ShopMercy.org.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #franthonygramlich #catholictiktok #dailyhomily #adventreflection #childliketrust #jesuslovesyou #trustgod #holymass #eucharist #sttherese #divinemercydevotion ★ Support this podcast ★
The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/120125.cfmIn today’s homily, Fr. Daniel offers a challenging but deeply Catholic truth: salvation belongs to Christ alone, yet His grace reaches far wider than we often imagine. Jesus praises the faith of the pagan centurion, teaching that many from east and west will recline with Abraham in the Kingdom (cf. Mt 8:11). This isn’t sentimental pluralism—it’s the mystery of a God whose grace cannot be confined, even as He has entrusted the fullness of truth to His Church.The Catechism affirms that the Church possesses the “fullness of the means of salvation” (CCC 816), yet also acknowledges that elements of truth and goodness in other religions ultimately come from Christ, the one Way, Truth, and Life (Jn 14:6). As St. John Paul II taught, actual graces can move any soul toward virtue, awakening the conscience and preparing the heart for deeper conversion.But this does not lessen our missionary call. Every person deserves the fullness of truth—the sacraments, the Eucharist, the tender strength of Our Lady, and the saving intimacy of Jesus Christ. “Go, therefore, and make disciples” remains a command of love. And as Fr. Daniel reminds us, judgment considers not only what we have done, but what we have been given. Those who reject the Gospel after receiving much will be accountable for more.In the end, God’s mercy is vast, but truth is not relative. Christ alone saves, Christ alone is divine, and Christ alone conquered death. Yet His grace works tirelessly—even in hidden places—to draw every heart toward Himself. May we cherish the fullness we’ve received, evangelize with zeal, and trust that God never ceases reaching for His children, from every nation, religion, and corner of the earth.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #frdaniel #catholictiktok #homily #dailyhomily #gospelreflection #catholictruth #salvation #evangelization #jesuschrist #eucharist #catholicchurch ★ Support this podcast ★
Fr. Mark reminds us that Advent is not Christmas—it is a penitential season meant to awaken our souls, sharpen our spiritual vision, and prepare us to stand before the Lord. Across the 24 Churches that make up the Catholic Church, Advent (or its equivalent) is lived with deep seriousness: 40-day fasts, vegan disciplines, weeks of total abstinence, and long seasons of preparation. Their witness challenges us in the Roman Rite to rediscover what this season truly is: a call to repentance, renewal, and readiness.Advent invites us to slow down the “ho-ho-ho” and lean into the holy *“woe”—*the humble acknowledgment that we are sinners destined for judgment, yet infinitely loved by a merciful God. Remember the season. Recognize your need. Renew your spiritual life. Prayer, fasting, almsgiving, confession, daily conversion—these are not optional extras but the heart of Advent itself.Live this season with purpose. Let your preparation be real, intentional, and penitential, so that when Christ comes—at Christmas or at the hour of your death—you will be ready to stand before Him with a heart made new.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok #frmarl #advent #penance #fasting #conversion #preparetheway #secondcoming #judgment #mercy #holiness #repentance ★ Support this podcast ★
Today's Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112625.cfmToday’s guest homilist, Fr. Richard Shuaibu of the Diocese of Sokoto, Nigeria, joined us at the National Shrine to share a living testimony of the Gospel we heard proclaimed—Christ’s promise that “not a hair on your head will be destroyed” because eternal life is secure in Him. Introducing him, Fr. Chris reminded us that while persecution is rising across the world—especially in Nigeria—the victory of the Christian is not measured by earthly safety but by fidelity that leads to heaven.Fr. Richard’s powerful witness brought this truth into sharp focus. He spoke of daily persecution: churches burned, priests martyred, families displaced, children abducted, communities attacked simply for bearing the name of Jesus. And yet—he stood before us with unshakable peace. Why? Because the enemy cannot conquer the heart that belongs to Christ.He reminded us that Christians do not fight with weapons of destruction, but with weapons of conversion: the Holy Rosary and the maternal protection of Our Lady. Even amid violence, miracles occur. Even in the jungle, faith endures. And even under threat of death, Fr. Richard proclaimed the truth: “There is no God but the Lord, and Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”Please pray for Fr. Richard, for the Church in Nigeria, and for all who suffer for the Gospel. And may his witness strengthen us to stand firm in Christ, who alone is our hope and our life.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok #frchrisalar #persecution #martyrs #nigeria #prayfornigeria #courage #faith #rosary #ourlady ★ Support this podcast ★
Today's Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112625.cfmAs we reach the final days of the liturgical year, the Church invites us to lift our eyes toward the ultimate realities: Christ’s return, the purification of the world, and God’s unshakeable plan for His people. Fr. Chris reminds us that the Scriptures, the Catechism, and the Church-approved Marian apparitions all speak with one voice: we are already living in the “last hour” (CCC 670), and yet God’s mercy remains our refuge and our hope.From Akita to La Salette, Fatima to Quito, Heaven has warned of chastisements—but always with a mother’s plea: If you pray, if you repent, if you return to God, the course of history can change. The future is not fixed. Divine Mercy is God’s final outreach before His justice, as Jesus told St. Faustina: “Mankind will not have peace until it turns with trust to My mercy” (Diary, 300). These messages are not meant to terrify but to awaken, calling each of us to deeper prayer, conversion, and fidelity to the sacraments.Fr. Chris breaks open what Heaven asks of us in these times: trust in Divine Mercy; a Eucharistic life; confession; consecration to Jesus through Mary; the Rosary and Chaplet; fasting; accepting our daily crosses; and leading others to Christ through Mary’s maternal guidance. These are not extraordinary tasks—they are the ordinary path to holiness, given with extraordinary urgency. The Triumph of the Immaculate Heart and the Era of Peace will come, but God invites us to participate in their arrival through our own response.Now is the time to turn back to the Lord. Now is the time to pray. Now is the time to choose trust over fear. Heaven has spoken—and its message is mercy.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism#frchrisalar #endtimes #fatima #akita #lasaLette #divinemercyplus #catholictiktok #eucharist #rosary #chapletofdivinemercy #catechism #secondcoming ★ Support this podcast ★
The Place Persecution Cannot ReachIn today’s homily, Fr. Tyler reflects on a truth revealed by the Vietnamese Martyrs—117 canonized, more than 300,000 known to God alone—who witnessed with their blood that no earthly power can touch the deepest sanctuary of the human person: the heart. Persecution may imprison the body, silence the voice, or press upon the mind, but it cannot force the interior surrender of one’s freedom. As the Catechism teaches, the heart is “the seat of moral decision,” the place where we choose for or against God.Saint Andrew Dũng-Lạc and his companions lived this truth heroically. Arrested, tortured, ransomed, and arrested again, they remained interiorly free—joyful even—because their choice for Christ was rooted in the depths no chains could reach. Their witness echoes that of the Apostles singing hymns in prison, and above all, Christ Himself on the Cross. From His place of suffering, Jesus freely offered His life: “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord” (John 10:18). His heart remained sovereign, forgiving His persecutors, entrusting Himself to the Father, and rising in glory.Fr. Tyler reminds us that persecution in our own age may be subtler—cultural pressures, moral confusion, spiritual weariness—but the battleground is the same. Nothing in this world, no government, movement, or ideology, can make the choice of our heart for us. Every Christian must decide: Will I choose Christ today, especially when the cross becomes heavy? The Vietnamese martyrs, the Apostles, and the Lord Himself show that true freedom is found in fidelity, even in suffering. As the liturgical year draws to its close, the Gospel calls us to stay awake, to guard that sacred interior ground where God speaks and where love chooses Him in return.May we, like the martyrs, give Christ our “yes” anew today, remaining faithful until the end when He leads us through death into eternal life.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism#frtyler #vietnameseMartyrs #saintandrewdunglac #martyrdom #persecution #catholichomily #saintoftheday #choosechrist #catholictiktok ★ Support this podcast ★
Today's Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112325.cfmIn today’s homily, Fr. Anthony reminds us of a truth Americans rarely ponder: we have never lived under a king — yet our entire faith rests on the Kingship of Jesus Christ. Unlike earthly monarchs who seek power, privilege, and protection, Jesus rules from a place no human king would ever choose: the Cross. His throne is wood, His crown is thorns, His royal robes are His own Precious Blood. This is the radical reversal of the Gospel — a King who saves not by “saving Himself,” but by pouring Himself out in total self-gift. As Scripture says, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mk 10:45).The mockery of the rulers, the soldiers, and the thief — “Save yourself!” — echoes the temptation we all face: self-preservation over self-surrender. Yet Jesus reveals the true meaning of kingship: mercy. On Calvary, He establishes a kingdom not of domination but of redemption. He conquers sin, death, and Satan by embracing the Cross, proving that divine authority is expressed through sacrificial love. The Diary of St. Faustina echoes this mystery when Jesus says, “The flames of mercy are burning Me. I desire to pour them out upon human souls” (Diary, 1074). Christ thirsts for souls, not for earthly glory.Fr. Anthony urges each of us to enthrone Jesus as King in our hearts. The real battle is not with political enemies or cultural currents, but within — between virtue and vice, grace and temptation. To invite Christ the King is to ask Him to conquer our interior enemies quickly and decisively. And where the King reigns, He places His Queen — the Blessed Virgin Mary — beside Him. Through truth, humility, and repentance, the kingdom of God takes root within us, leading us to the final victory: rising with Christ after our death, just like the good thief who prayed, “Jesus, remember me.”For more Catholic teaching, visit DivineMercyPlus.org and the link in our bio. Deepen your understanding of Christ’s saving work and the Sacraments with Understanding the Sacraments at ShopMercy.org.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism#franthony #christtheking #dailyhomily #catholicpreaching #jesuschristking #calvary #divinemercydevotion #maryourmother #catholictruth #gospelteaching ★ Support this podcast ★
Today's Mass Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112025.cfmPilgrimage Promo: https://youtu.be/LSw5E8f5jNYRegister for the Pilgrimage Here: https://marian.org/events/pilgrimage-medjugorjeAs we approach the end of the liturgical year, Fr. Jason Lewis reflects on Jesus’ anguished words to Jerusalem — the city that should have recognized “what makes for peace” (Lk 19:42). Like Eden and the Temple, Jerusalem was meant to be the spiritual center of the cosmos, yet its people often turned from the very Source of life. Jesus laments a blindness of heart that leads to ruin, reminding us that true peace is found only when we return to God with humility and trust. As the Catechism teaches, “Peace is the tranquility of order” rooted in God Himself (CCC 2304).Fr. Jason shows how Our Lady, the Queen of Peace, leads us directly to her Son, the Prince of Peace. Her message echoes the words Jesus gave to St. Faustina: “Mankind will not have peace until it turns with trust to My mercy” (Diary, 300). Medjugorje, a place of deep conversion for many, calls us to pray from the heart, read Scripture, adore Christ in the Eucharist, fast, and make frequent confession — the very sacramental life through which Divine Mercy heals and restores us. Access to grace in the Eucharist and Confession reveals why the Church calls the Sacraments “powers that come forth from the Body of Christ” (CCC 1116).The world promises peace through wealth, comfort, or distraction, yet these leave us empty. Only Jesus offers a peace that endures (cf. Jn 14:27). Our Lady invites us to trust, surrender, and choose the narrow path that leads to life. To deepen your understanding of the Sacraments, visit ShopMercy.org for Understanding the Sacraments. To grow in Divine Mercy spirituality, see the Diary of St. Faustina at ShopMercy.org. For guidance on praying the Rosary and Chaplet, visit the link in our bio.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #frjasonlewis #queenofpeace #medjugorje #divinemercydevotion #masshomily #confession #eucharist #catholicprayer #holymary #spiritualwarfare #peaceinChrist ★ Support this podcast ★
Today's Mass Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111925.cfmIn today’s homily, Fr. Mark Baron reflects on the harrowing story from 2 Maccabees: a mother witnessing the martyrdom of her seven sons for refusing to abandon God’s law. As Fr. Mark highlights, the woman’s courage was rooted in hope—hope in God’s providence, mercy, and the promise of eternal life. This hope allowed her to endure unimaginable suffering, guiding her sons to remain steadfast, even in the face of death (2 Maccabees 7:1–31). The passage underscores the dignity of choosing God over worldly life and reminds us that our faith calls us to something greater than ourselves. Fr. Mark draws a parallel to the early Christian martyrs, who drew inspiration from these events to face persecution with unshakable resolve. He also challenges modern believers to live boldly for the truth, resisting “weenieism” or compromise in a culture often hostile to God’s law. Our ultimate confidence comes from knowing God Himself: omnipotent, merciful, and the source of all goodness (Ex 3:14). By fixing our hearts on Him, we too can face trials with courage and trust in His divine plan. Let the witness of the Maccabean martyrs inspire us to serve God faithfully, to prioritize eternal life, and to live nobly for what truly matters. Learn how to strengthen your faith and pray for perseverance—link in bio. ★ Support this podcast ★
In today’s homily, Fr. Matt offers a sobering reminder: a nation cannot survive spiritually if its people abandon truth. As Catholics, we are called not only to believe the faith, but to study it, to guard it, and to allow it to shape our daily lives. The Church teaches that the Holy Spirit is the “Spirit of Truth” (John 14:17), and when we invite Him into our hearts, He strengthens us to love what is good, reject what is false, and persevere through every trial. This is why the Catechism says that life in Christ transforms the whole of our existence (CCC 1691).Fr. Matt reminds us that a country’s spiritual health depends on the conversion of its people. We must let the Holy Spirit place divine truth on our hearts—not as an idea, but as a lived reality. St. Paul wrote, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Rom 12:2). A renewed mind becomes a renewed family, a renewed Church, and a renewed nation.We are called to pray deeply for our country, not in despair, but with hope rooted in Divine Mercy. In moments of darkness, the Lord asks us to return to His Heart, where truth and mercy are never separated. Divine Mercy Plus offers many resources to help you grow in faith and understanding; visit the link in our bio to explore talks, articles, and ways to ground your spiritual life in the truth Christ entrusted to His Church.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok #frmattolea #holyspirit #truth #conversion #pray ★ Support this podcast ★
In today’s homily, Fr. David reminds us that the pro-life mission begins not only with defending the unborn, but with defending the truth about the human person. As the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith taught in Donum Vitae (1987), “Human life must be absolutely respected and protected from the moment of conception.” This foundational truth reveals why the Church insists that no one may claim the right to directly destroy an innocent human being—for life begins with the creative action of God and belongs entirely to Him.Yet Fr. David takes us deeper: physical life and death matter, but our spiritual life or death is even more decisive. St. John tells us, “Whoever does not love remains in death” (1 Jn 3:14). Spiritual death is the absence of charity; spiritual life is union with God, who is love (Jn 14:23). St. Faustina writes in Diary 1148 that “we resemble God most when we forgive our neighbors.” Without forgiveness, the heart withers. Without truth, charity collapses.Through the story of Anna Maria Schmidt, Fr. David shows the terrible cost of hatred and the supernatural power of forgiveness. Her journey—from rage to grace—reveals that only God can heal the heart so deeply that it can forgive even in the face of grave injustice. This is the same grace our nation desperately needs. More than 65 million children have been lost to abortion since 1973. This staggering reality exposes not only a crisis of truth, but a crisis of love.Scripture teaches, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (Jn 8:32). Love divorced from truth becomes sentimentality; truth without love becomes cruelty. But united, they become the path to holiness. Study the faith. Seek the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth. Pray for our nation. And ask God daily to enkindle in your heart the charity that defends life, forgives enemies, and transforms the world.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #frdavid #catholictiktok #prolife #loveandtruth #holiness #gospeloflife #donumvitae #forgiveness #saintfaustina #mercy ★ Support this podcast ★
In today’s homily, Fr. Chris invites us to confront a reality many avoid: the Church teaches that we are living in the “end times”—not because the world is ending tomorrow, but because public revelation closed with the death of the last Apostle. As the liturgical year ends, the Gospel readings turn our attention to eschatology: the destruction of the Temple, the trials that precede the end, and the Second Coming of Christ. Jesus warns that earthly securities crumble, but the true Temple—His Eucharistic Presence and the soul living in grace—endures forever (cf. 1 Cor 3:16).Scripture is clear: “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim 3:12). Fr. Chris explains how persecution purifies both the innocent and the guilty in the Church, reminding us that the Church is both divine and human—perfect in her doctrine, yet wounded in her members. Even so, Jesus promises that faithfulness leads to eternal life, even when earthly suffering seems overwhelming.Drawing on the witness of modern martyrs, especially Christians in Nigeria, Fr. Chris shows that God grants particular graces to those who suffer for the Gospel. Their serenity in the face of death mirrors the peace of the early martyrs, reminding us that Christian hope is not shaken by earthly violence. As Jesus told St. Faustina, He offers the world this “time of mercy” before the time of justice (Diary, 1160). Now is the moment to return to Him with trust.Whether through persecution, family tensions, daily misunderstandings, or the crosses we quietly bear, Christians are invited to unite their sufferings to the Cross, fulfilling St. Paul’s words: “I complete what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of His body” (Col 1:24). Remaining faithful in a world of confusion is not fearmongering—it is the path to peace, hope, and eternal life. We belong to a Kingdom that cannot be shaken.#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #frchrisalar #catholictiktok #endtimes #eschatology #catholichomily #persecution #martyrs #hope #trust #divinemercydevotion #jesusitrustinyou ★ Support this podcast ★
The Book of Wisdom reminds us that creation itself reveals the divine Artist, yet humanity so often stops at the art and forgets the Artist. St. Paul echoes this in Romans 1:20, teaching that God’s truth is visible through nature, leaving us “without excuse.” Natural law is not an invention of the Church but a reflection of the Creator’s design — especially in matters of human love, complementarity, and moral responsibility.Fr. Daniel speaks with pastoral clarity about the dangers of confusing compassion with affirmation of sin. Scripture, natural law, and the Catechism all reveal that true love always leads toward conversion, never toward conformity with what wounds the human soul. The sacraments themselves presuppose repentance — “Repent!” was the first word of John the Baptist’s call (Mt 3:2). Christ’s mercy heals, but it never excuses. He tells every soul: “Go and sin no more” (Jn 8:11).The priesthood exists to guard the flock, not to bless the wounds the Gospel came to heal. When clergy publicly celebrate lifestyles contrary to the teachings of Christ, they risk leading souls away from salvation rather than toward it. A shepherd who refuses to warn of the wolf is not merciful — he is negligent. A spiritual doctor who hides the truth of the disease is not kind — he is cruel.The Church does not reject persons; she rejects the lie that sin can coexist with holiness. Every person — regardless of attraction or struggle — is infinitely loved by God and called to purity, which is the expression of authentic love. Christ does not say “Be yourself,” but “Be made new” (2 Cor 5:17). He does not say “Follow your desires,” but “Follow Me.”Pray today for priests: that they may preach with apostolic boldness, charity rooted in truth, and fidelity to Christ’s teachings. And pray for all who struggle with sexual sin, that they may encounter not false affirmation but true liberation in Jesus Christ, who alone has the power to heal, transform, and set every soul free. ★ Support this podcast ★
True wisdom doesn’t come from books or clever ideas — it comes from God Himself. As Fr. Mark reminds us, divine wisdom is the light of God that orders all things in creation and directs them toward their ultimate purpose. Today’s readings from Wisdom 7:22b–8:1 and Luke 17:20–25 show us that this divine wisdom is not something distant or abstract; it’s the very presence of God’s Kingdom living within the soul.Before the Fall, humanity walked in the light of God’s wisdom. But sin darkened our understanding, blinding us to the truth about who God is and how we are meant to live. The Book of Wisdom reminds us that divine wisdom is “holy, unique, manifold, subtle, loving the good, and all-powerful.” It is this wisdom that restores the order lost by sin and allows us to see reality through God’s eyes. When we live according to His divine order, peace and fulfillment follow. When we reject it, disorder and unhappiness rule our hearts.Jesus teaches in today’s Gospel that “the Kingdom of God is within you.” This means that the Kingdom is not merely a place but the very life of God alive in the soul of the righteous. As St. Faustina recorded in her Diary, Jesus said, “My Kingdom is my life in the human soul.” To live wisely, then, is to allow the Kingdom of God to take root in us — to let divine wisdom order our thoughts, our choices, and our desires according to God’s plan.Fr. Mark urges us to ask daily for the gift of wisdom — a wisdom that enables us to live rightly, see eternally, and walk in peace. The truly wise are those who look not merely to this world but to eternity, shaping their lives by the light of divine truth. May we pray: “Lord, grant us wisdom, that we may live wisely, love deeply, and build Your Kingdom within and around us.”#marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok #frmarkbaron #wisdom #kingdomofgod #bookofwisdom #gospelreflection #divinewisdom #catholichomily #dailyhomily ★ Support this podcast ★
Today, the Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Josaphat, a bishop and martyr who gave his life for the unity of the Church — a unity founded in Christ Himself, who “is our peace, He who made both one and broke down the dividing wall of enmity through His flesh” (Eph 2:14).In today’s Gospel, we encounter the ten lepers who call out to Jesus from a distance. Only one returns to give thanks — a Samaritan, a foreigner. Yet it is this “outsider” who draws near, falls at Christ’s feet, and glorifies God. His gratitude becomes worship. The Greek word used here is eucharisteo — to give thanks — the same root of our word Eucharist. In that moment, the healed man “Eucharisted” Jesus, showing us that true thanksgiving is communion with God Himself.Fr. Tyler reflects on how this healing foreshadows what Christ accomplishes in the Eucharist: God drawing near to the outcast, uniting what was divided, and restoring communion through His Body and Blood. Just as the Samaritan crossed the barrier between distance and intimacy, Christ crosses the infinite divide between heaven and earth, destroying the walls that sin has built.St. Josaphat lived this mystery to the end. In a time of bitter division between East and West, he longed for the unity of all Christians under the successor of Peter. For this, he was martyred — his blood becoming the seed of reconciliation. His life echoes the very prayer of Christ in John 17: “That they may all be one, as You, Father, are in Me and I in You.”Let us pray today that, like St. Josaphat, we may become instruments of unity — people who heal, reconcile, and draw others toward the Eucharist, where all division is destroyed and all hearts are made one in Christ.Watch today’s Daily Homily with Fr. Tyler on DivineMercyPlus.org or the free DM+ app.#frtyler #stjosaphat #unity #eucharist #onenessinchrist #catholicunity #bodyofchrist #massreflection #dailyhomily #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok ★ Support this podcast ★
Today, Fr. Chris Alar reflects on the true meaning of love through the example of St. Martin of Tours — a man remembered for one simple act of charity. A Roman soldier who divided his cloak to clothe a beggar, St. Martin discovered that in serving the poor, he had served Christ Himself (cf. Mt 25:40). What seems like a small moment reveals an eternal truth: love is not sentiment but sacrifice.We often misuse the word “love.” We say we love our favorite show, a meal, or even a football team — but authentic Christian love runs much deeper. As St. Thomas Aquinas teaches, “To love is to will the good of another.” (ST I-II, Q.26, A.4) True love is not indulgent approval of anything someone does; it’s the desire for their eternal good, even when that means speaking truth or making hard choices.Fr. Chris reminds us that not all giving is love. Some give out of duty, guilt, or to feel superior — but only one kind of love endures before God: the love that gives simply because it can’t do otherwise. The love that expects no return. The love that flows from a heart transformed by grace.This is the love of Christ on the Cross — “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom 5:8) It is the love that becomes mercy when it takes action, when it clothes the naked, visits the sick, forgives, and gives without reward. It is the love that turns the ordinary into something eternal.Watch Fr. Chris’s full homily on DivineMercyPlus.org or on the Divine Mercy Plus app — free and ad-free Catholic streaming that helps you deepen your faith. And visit ShopMercy.org for more spiritual resources to grow in authentic Christian love.#frchrisalar #stmartinoftours #love #charity #mercy #catholicfaith #catholicchurch #catholichomily #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #catholictiktok #holylove #sacrifice #faithinaction ★ Support this podcast ★
Who is Mary in God’s plan of redemption? Is she “Co-Redemptrix”? “Mediatrix of All Graces”? What does the Church actually teach about these titles — and why has there been renewed discussion about them?In this special votive Mass, Fr. Jason offers clarity on the Blessed Virgin Mary’s unique role in salvation history, following the recent doctrinal note Mater Populi Fidelis. The Church affirms that Jesus Christ alone is the one true Mediator (1 Timothy 2:5) — but His unique mediation is inclusive, not exclusive. In other words, Christ invites us to share in His saving work through participation, not competition. When we intercede, when we bring others to the faith, when we cooperate with grace, we are participating in His mediation.Mary’s cooperation is utterly unique. From her “fiat” at the Annunciation to her suffering at the foot of the Cross, she united her will entirely to her Son’s redemptive mission. As Vatican II teaches (Lumen Gentium 61), “The Blessed Virgin was the handmaid of the Lord in gaining for us the greatest of all graces — redemption and salvation.” Through her motherhood, she became the living vessel through which the Author of Grace Himself entered the world.Yet we must be clear: Mary is not divine, not a redeemer apart from Christ. She is the Mother of the Redeemer, the Mediatrix through whom God chose to send His grace into the world — the New Eve standing beside the New Adam, the Ark of the New Covenant seen in Revelation 11–12.As Fr. Jason reminds us, “Lex orandi, lex credendi” — as we pray, so we believe. The Church’s liturgy itself honors Mary as “the Mother of Grace” and “Mediatrix of all graces,” reflecting the faith of the centuries. Through her perfect cooperation with God’s will, she models how we, too, are called to cooperate in Christ’s saving work.Let us love her, honor her, and imitate her — not as a rival to Christ, but as the first and greatest disciple of the Lord. Watch this full homily on DivineMercyPlus.org or the free Divine Mercy Plus (DM+) app to learn more about what the Church truly teaches about Mary’s role in salvation.#frjason #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #mary #mediatrixofgrace #coredeemptrix #marianbeliefs #mariology #theology #catholictiktok ★ Support this podcast ★
What makes a true shepherd great? Strength in leadership, courage in the face of danger, and clarity in truth. Today, the Church celebrates Pope St. Leo the Great, whose faith shaped both the Church and the world during one of history’s darkest times.When Attila the Hun and his brutal army advanced toward Rome, Pope Leo — a frail, elderly man — went out alone to meet him. History records that Attila turned away after the encounter, claiming to have seen two mighty figures standing beside the Pope — St. Peter and St. Paul — with an army of angels behind them. God Himself defended His Church through the courage and faith of His servant.Yet Pope Leo’s greatest battle was not fought with swords, but with words. In an age of confusion, he boldly defended the truth about Christ’s nature — fully God and fully man — against the rising heresies of his day. His Tome of Leo helped form the Council of Chalcedon’s great declaration of faith: Christ is “one and the same Son... perfect in divinity and perfect in humanity.” The Fathers of the Council proclaimed, “Peter has spoken through Leo.”As Fr. Matthew reminds us, truth and mercy always go hand in hand. Pope Leo not only defended doctrine but lived charity — protecting the poor, reconciling enemies, and calling sinners to conversion. His courage calls us today to the same mission: to seek truth, forgive freely, and love without fear.May St. Leo the Great intercede for the Church today — that our shepherds may lead with the same faith, wisdom, and courage that once stopped an empire and safeguarded the Gospel for generations.Watch the full homily now on DivineMercyPlus.org or the free Divine Mercy Plus (DM+) app.#frmatt #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #popleothegreat #faith #truth #courage #catholictiktok #forgiveness #churchhistory #heresy ★ Support this podcast ★
Fr. Chris reminds us that today — the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed — is one of the most important days of the Church year. Though it’s not a solemnity or feast, its spiritual weight is immense. Following the glory of All Saints Day, we now turn to the souls who still await their full union with God — the holy souls in Purgatory. Together, these three days — All Hallows Eve, All Saints, and All Souls — form what the Church calls Allhallowtide, or the “Triduum of Death.” It is not dark, but deeply merciful, because it reveals God’s justice and His love.Too often, people misunderstand Purgatory. It is not a second chance, nor punishment, nor forgiveness of sins — that happens in the confessional. Rather, it is the merciful purification of souls who died in grace but still need to be cleansed of attachment and the lingering effects of sin. As Fr. Chris teaches, “Christ paid the price for our redemption, but He did not remove the consequences.” A loving Father forgives, but still allows us to repair what was damaged. That is justice in love.The Church calls us — the Church Militant — to help the Church Suffering through prayer, fasting, indulgences, and sacrifices. The poor souls cannot help themselves; even the saints in Heaven cannot directly shorten their time. But you can. Offer Masses, rosaries, and daily sufferings for them. Each small act of love can release a soul into Heaven. “Love covers a multitude of sins” (1 Pt 4:8).As Fr. Chris beautifully says, “Perhaps some of those in Purgatory are there because of us.” Today, we make reparation — not only for our sins, but for those we may have influenced. Pray for your loved ones, forgive those who’ve hurt you, and offer every moment as a work of mercy. The greatest weapon against Purgatory is humility — to forgive, to love, and to trust in God’s mercy.Learn more in Fr. Chris’s talk on Purgatory this Saturday at DivineMercyPlus.org or on the free, ad-free Divine Mercy Plus app. Visit the link in our bio to watch, pray, and intercede for the holy souls.#frchrisalar #marian #marians #marianfathers #marianhelpers #divinemercy #thedivinemercy #catholic #catholicism #romancatholic #romancatholicism #allsoulsday #purgatory #prayersforthedead #allsouls #soulsinpurgatory #catholictiktok #heaven #mercy #faith #prayer ★ Support this podcast ★
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Comments (2)

ID29729157

Great explanation of the Our Father. I really enjoyed the breakdown of prayers, petitions and needs all in the context of time. Excellent!

Jun 20th
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Regina Pontes

I just discovered you post ypur homilies here. This is a hidden treasure. You need to advertise this at the end of masses Fr. Chris! You don't know how many times I said to myself that I wish I had a written or video copy of a particular homily of Frs Chris and Kaz! God bless you all at the Shrine. Pax Christi!

Feb 20th
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