Surprisingly, Fr. Chris Alar has never done a Saturday Talk on the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven.

Father Anthony reflects on the startling tenderness of the Gospel in John 4, where Jesus waits at Jacob’s well and speaks to a Samaritan woman—crossing boundaries of history, prejudice, and shame with the simple request, “Give me a drink.” He explores how Christ does not approach her as a case to be judged, but as a soul to be known—thirst meeting Thirst, loneliness met by the steady gaze of mercy.

Father Anthony reflects on the Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man, revealing how generosity and compassion open the way to eternal life. He shows how indifference to the suffering of others hardens the heart, while true discipleship means seeing Christ in the poor—and giving with love that bridges heaven and earth.