The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/021526.cfm Fresh from a visit to the Holy Land, Fr. Chris Alar, MIC reflects on standing atop the Mount of Olives, praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, walking the Via Dolorosa, and entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre—the very places where Christ taught, suffered, and redeemed us. Looking out over Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, he recalls how Jesus wept over the city. Why? Because people would not receive His teaching.

In the New Testament, St. Paul writes, “We have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God” (Heb 4:14). So, if Jesus is the Great High Priest once and for all, who, then, are Catholic priests? Father Chris Alar, MIC, explains how Christ established the priesthood, delegating His authority to forgive sins on earth to the Apostles and their successors (bishops and priests) down to the present day, known as Apostolic Succession. Then hear the story of Br. Gabriel, a Franciscan Friar who puts his faith and ministry on wheels – literally!

This year, Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day fell on the same day, Feb. 14, 2024. They have more in common than you might think. Join Fr. Chris Alar as he explains the opening of the holy season of Lent, a time to think about God and not ourselves.