It is an obligation of the Church on certain days to Fast and Abstain from meat, and to pray and do almsgiving every day. Fr. Chris Alar explains why do we do penances and what is the meaning within and outside of Lent.

Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword” (Mt 10:34). Many hear these words and recoil — how could the Prince of Peace bring division? Yet, as Fr. Chris Alar explains in today’s Daily Homily, this “sword” is the truth that cuts through the lies we cling to. It divides not because Christ desires conflict, but because truth exposes falsehood.

Why has addiction become so prevalent in our world? What, if anything, can we do to overcome it? What can we do to maintain hope? Join Fr. Chris Alar, MIC, for a frank discussion and learn some answers to these questions. This episode also features an interview with Jim Wahlberg (brother of Mark Wahlberg) in which he shares some of his family’s experience with addiction and how they have worked to overcome it.