How did Catholicism survive in England when outlawed during Queen Elizabeth I's reign in the 16th century? Hear Fr. Matthew Tomeny, MIC explain how heroic priests helped keep the Catholic Faith alive in the underground English Church, treated by the government as enemy secret agents, usually on the run or in hiding with the assistance of resourceful and self-sacrificing Catholics, implementing clever systems to safely administer the sacraments, evangelize, and guide the shepherd-less Catholic laity, with some ultimately paying the price with their blood.

Father Anthony reflects on the risen Christ who meets weary travelers along the road after the Resurrection, drawing near when hope feels thin and understanding incomplete. He explores how Jesus is first recognized not by dramatic signs, but by presence—walking, listening, sharing the journey—until he sits with them, shows them His hands, and even eats fish, showing a love that is real, embodied, and near. What appears ordinary slowly becomes holy as their eyes are opened to the truth that the stranger is the Lord.

Father Anthony uses the story of Abraham’s obedience to God to encourage us to have faith in God’s plan when he is calling us out of our comfort zones.