Why Penances? Understanding Lent, Fasting, Almsgiving (Ash Wednesday)
Why Penances? Understanding Lent, Fasting, Almsgiving (Ash Wednesday)
It is an obligation of the Church on certain days to Fast and Abstain from meat, and to pray and do almsgiving every day. Fr. Chris Alar explains why do we do penances and what is the meaning within and outside of Lent.
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In today’s Gospel reflection from Luke, Fr. Chris Alar explores the profound lesson of persistent prayer. Jesus shares the parable of the man who, despite a late-night visit, is convinced to provide for his neighbor’s need. Fr. Chris reminds us that prayer is our way of acknowledging God’s authority in our lives and asking for His help. Even when our prayers seem unanswered, God always responds with love and wisdom, sometimes in ways we may not immediately understand.
Many believe that all good people will go to Heaven when they die, saying, “I'm fine. I never killed anybody.” Well, Jesus' words in the Bible and the Diary of St. Faustina say something a bit different. Father Chris Alar, MIC, explains that Heaven is not a prize for those who are just good, but for those who are active disciples of Christ. Then hear the story of Hearts for Music, an inspiring group that brings children and adults with profound disabilities together through the universal language of music and compassion.
What does it mean to be the Vicar of Christ? What does Church teaching that the Pope is infallible really mean? It isn't what you think. Join Fr. Chris Alar as he explains what the Church really teaches about the papacy, the Ordinary Magisterium, the Extraordinary Magisterium, Apostolic Succession, Ex Cathedra, etc. and if the Pope can make an error or not.
