Is the Holy Land Safe? I was Just There

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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.

The Sermon on the Mount is not a suggestion. It is a way of life. Jesus, the New Moses, does not merely interpret the law—He fulfills and perfects it. When He says to “cut off” what leads you to sin, He speaks in holy urgency. Sin has consequences. Grace is free—but it must be received and cooperated with.

Father Chris tackles misunderstood teachings head-on:
• Why Catholics read Scripture as literally true—but not literalist.
• What Jesus’ words reveal about purgatory and accountability.
• Why annulment is not a “Catholic divorce,” but a declaration about sacramental validity.
• Why the Sacraments are our sure path to grace and salvation.

He also pleads for prayers—prayers for persecuted Christians in the Holy Land, and for his dear friend Giuseppe recovering from a stroke.

When the Church teaches clearly, it is not to restrict us, but to save us.

Christ wept over Jerusalem. May we not ignore His voice today.

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