Joel 2:12-18 “Blow the trumpet in Zion; sanctify a fast; call a solemn assembly; gather the people. Sanctify the congregation; assemble the aged, gather the children… Between the vestibule and the altar let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep. Let them say, ‘Spare your people, O Lord.'” (Joel 2:15, 17) What is the ...read more

In his message for Lent 2023, Pope Francis reflected on the Transfiguration of Our Lord and the “’retreat’ on Mount Tabor” as an image of the Church’s journey to Easter as well as of the synodal path. The Holy Father said that “Lent leads to Easter: the ‘retreat’ is not an end in itself, but ...read more

Many people associate Lent with sacrifice and giving up something they enjoy. However, Lent isn’t just about suffering and repentance: it’s also about spiritual growth. It’s a time for introspection, reflection, and self-examination. As Catholics, we are called to look inward, turn away from our vices, and seek God’s healing, strength, and guidance to make ...read more

I find that Lent is a certain “dying to ourselves.” Often, we imagine this happens through giving something up, and it certainly does. There are many things that we can remove from our lives to amplify God more: social media, coffee, online shopping.  But what if amplifying God can come about through a different means, ...read more

On February 2, 2023, the third day of his Apostolic Visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Pope Francis heard from and responded to young people and catechists in Martyrs’ Stadium. He encouraged listeners to incorporate five “ingredients for the future” in their lives today: “prayer, community, honesty, forgiveness, and service.” Read the full ...read more

“Mother Teresa: No Greater Love” is an inspiring documentary from the Knights of Columbus on the life of St. Teresa of Kolkata. You can watch the trailer here. Deacon Pedro spoke with Director and Producer David Naglieri on the SLHour in October, 2022. Here’s his interview: If you’re curious about the full podcast episode, you ...read more

In today’s catechesis, Pope Francis begins a new series on evangelization. He reflects on the call of St. Matthew the Apostle and quotes Pope Benedict XVI: “The Church does not engage in proselytism. Instead, she grows by ‘attraction.’” Read the full text below: Dear brothers and sisters, good morning! Today we begin a new cycle ...read more

Read the full text of Pope Francis' homily for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, and the 55th World Day of Peace on January 1, 2022. ...read more

? Do you ever get the feeling that you’re not in control of your life? So often we can try to take the driver’s seat, to be in charge of where we’re heading. We can be unsettled when something unexpected happens or disappointed when things don’t go our way. It’s a normal part of being ...read more

Come, Flower of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: save us without delay! When I think of this antiphon I can’t help but think of Mary. In fact, I would consider that this O Antiphon, O Radix Jesse, is inseparable from Mary. But O Radix Jesse, Root of Jesse, is a ...read more