To exercise true freedom, you have to be able to say yes and no to both the bad and the good, not just to what is sinful. When you fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, you are being obedient to the Church and share in the sacrifice of Christ. In fact, some demons can only be driven out by prayer and fasting. Father Chris Alar, MIC, explains.

What is the meaning of suffering, sickness, loss, and death? Why would a "merciful" God allow such things? Fr. Chris Alar answers these questions in a powerful way that will give you the strength to understand and persevere in the midst of such trials.