The Gospel presents a man described as “full of leprosy.” Not partially wounded. Not mildly afflicted. Completely sick. And yet this is the man who is healed — because he approaches Jesus correctly. Father Anthony Gramlich, MIC, explains that Scripture reveals three responses to spiritual leprosy. The first is pride: refusing to see one’s own sin while accusing everyone else. This leprosy cannot be healed because it denies the wound. The second is despair: seeing the sin clearly but believing mercy is impossible. This leprosy turns inward and never reaches the Physician.

Saint Bernadette was born into a loving family that lived at a mill until they fell on hard times. She was a small girl but was loved dearly and she was brought up in the faith. Learn more about her upbringing as we continue our virtual Marian pilgrimage with Fr. Joseph Roesch, MIC.The beautifully photographed book "France: A Pilgrimage with Mary" is now available at ShopMercy.org

Father Joe Roesch, MIC, the Marians' vicar general, talks about Our Lady's call for a simple prayer — the Rosary. Pray it daily, says Fr. Joe, and thereby "unite with Our Lady in her plan for peace for the world."