Did you know that Our Lady, under the title of the Immaculate Conception, has a deep connection to the discovery of America and the founding of the United States? Father Chris Alar, MIC, traces the Marian roots that ultimately led to the declaration of Mary as patroness of our country. Then hear Fr. Thaddaeus Lancton, MIC, as he discusses a fascinating topic with Fr. Rendell Torres of the Diocese of Albany, New York: how the Immaculate Conception relates to contraception.

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.

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.