Fr. Jason Lewis reminds us that joy is born from gratitude, and gratitude flows from knowing the faithfulness of God. The very word “Eucharist” means thanksgiving. Each time we come to Mass, we are invited to rediscover the joy that springs from a heart that thanks and trusts the Lord. Gratitude is not merely polite—it is transformative. It lifts us out of self-focus and immerses us in the mercy of God, who remains ever faithful, even when we are not.

What does the Church really teach about contraception? Hear Fr. Chris Alar explain why the Church teaches what it does on this subject. 

St. Ignatius of Antioch stands as one of the most important figures in the early Church. A disciple of St. John the Apostle and the third bishop of Antioch—appointed by St. Peter himself—Ignatius lived and died for the truth of the Catholic faith. As he was led to martyrdom in Rome, he urged fellow Christians not to rescue him, declaring that salvation comes through freedom from the fear of death.