On this feast of St. Padre Pio, the Church reminds us of one of the most beloved saints of modern times, a humble Capuchin friar marked by extraordinary gifts, suffering, and faith. Fr. Chris Alar reflects on today’s Gospel (Luke 8:19–21), where Jesus tells us that His true family are those who “hear the word of God and act on it.” Few lived this more radically than Padre Pio.

Why did the Church split in 1054 and what are the similarities and differences between the Catholic and Orthodox Church? Fr. Chris Alar explains why this is important in understanding what is happening in the Church and world today.

Welcome to a new podcast, "Divine Mercy Calls to Our Hearts," hosted by Fr. Mark Baron, MIC, and acclaimed author Donna-Marie Cooper O'Boyle.