The first ever Marian apparition was Our Lady of the Pillar (see previous talk), but the first ever Marian devotion was Mary, Help of Christians. If you don't understand why there is devotion to Mary, you might want to learn what the earliest Christians did regarding her! Fr. Chris Alar gives a fascinating and easy-to-follow explanation about this and why we need it today more than ever because of persecution of Christianity.

We often hear the biblical instruction, "Call no man your father,” and many wonder why priests are called fathers. But in the Bible, the concept of fatherhood is not just restricted to God and our earthly Fathers. It is also used as a sign of respect to those with whom we have a special relationship, such as spiritual fathers. Father Chris Alar, MIC, explains. Then learn about the beautiful, sacred work of the Frei family who for five generations have been making stained glass for places of Catholic worship.

In today’s Gospel reflection from Luke, Fr. Chris Alar explores the profound lesson of persistent prayer. Jesus shares the parable of the man who, despite a late-night visit, is convinced to provide for his neighbor’s need. Fr. Chris reminds us that prayer is our way of acknowledging God’s authority in our lives and asking for His help. Even when our prayers seem unanswered, God always responds with love and wisdom, sometimes in ways we may not immediately understand.