How did Catholicism survive in England when outlawed during Queen Elizabeth I's reign in the 16th century? Hear Fr. Matthew Tomeny, MIC explain how heroic priests helped keep the Catholic Faith alive in the underground English Church, treated by the government as enemy secret agents, usually on the run or in hiding with the assistance of resourceful and self-sacrificing Catholics, implementing clever systems to safely administer the sacraments, evangelize, and guide the shepherd-less Catholic laity, with some ultimately paying the price with their blood.

In today’s homily, Fr. Mark Baron reflects on the harrowing story from 2 Maccabees: a mother witnessing the martyrdom of her seven sons for refusing to abandon God’s law. As Fr. Mark highlights, the woman’s courage was rooted in hope—hope in God’s providence, mercy, and the promise of eternal life. This hope allowed her to endure unimaginable suffering, guiding her sons to remain steadfast, even in the face of death (2 Maccabees 7:1–31).

In this special year dedicated to St. Joseph, the head of the heavenly family of Nazareth, Fr. Chris delves into the devotion for this saint who said so little but who accomplished so much. He explains why we should consider consecration to this saint.