Reflections from St. Ann DC

What should we remember about this week's Gospel, a continuation of the Sermon on the Mount? Abide by love, not "the law."

Ds doubt that Jesus desires your happiness? That His “Way” isn’t all it’s cracked up to be? This homily podcast is for you.

Amidst a snowy Washington in a chaotic world, Msgr. Watkins keeps it simple and brief: do not be distressed --- when Christ calls, don't dither, follow him.

We have a lot to learn from St. John the Baptist! Take a listen.

We are all his beloved sons and daughters; we must listen to Him, find our mission, and never lose hope in asking for His grace and mercy: Amen.

Christmas is often left after December 25th, but every day should be remembering the mystery of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. We must remember why Jesus came to us and his perfect sacrifice in death. He reminds us that through his death we are constantly washed clean of our sins.

When should we be generous? When do I store? When do I save? Let us learn from Mary.

Msgr. Watkins' #NewYears resolution: Be brief. Be sincere. Be seated.

We sometimes forget that the Holy Family lived real human lives — facing uncertainty, difficult decisions, and moments of struggle. In this homily, Msgr. Watkins invites us to look at their story through a human lens, beginning with the heartfelt reflection: “Poor Joseph.” Walk with them, feel their challenges, and discover a fresh perspective.

Jesus lived a short and humble life. What was he showing us? We can imitate him and live a holy life, in our own families. We invite you this week to place a photo of your family next to the manger scene. In doing so, we may be reminded to treat our families with gentleness and patience, growing in holiness along the way.

In today's homily, Monsignor Watkins discusses the importance of the Holy Family — Mary, Joseph, and Jesus — and togetherness. As we near the end of the 12 days of Christmas, and enter into the new year, do not forget the importance of your loved ones in your life.

Msgr. James Watkins beautifully captures the heart of Christmas this year: embracing the Christ Child. During his homily, he tenderly holds a parishioner’s baby—a powerful and poignant image that says it all. May we, too, embrace the Christ Child this #Christmas 🙏🫶 Amen 🎄✨ #MerryChristmas

This Fourth Sunday of Advent, Fr. Ivan Pertiné explains that we should not hold onto our plans too tightly, so as to allow God to move in our hearts and minds. Let us pray that God's plan will always triumph in our lives!

Are you attentive to the signs of God? We have to stay alert this Advent, and listen. Prayer is the most important.

We see most of the world as black and white, good is acknowledged, bad is punished and most religions are the same way. In Christianity however, God doesn't owe us anything. If Santa were loving and merciful, he would go to the land of misfit toys regardless of their defects. Jesus is mercy he came among us into our flawed world and didn't come for the righteous, but for the sinner. Not to...

Fr. Maximo explains the three comings of Christ: Jesus' Incarnation, His Second Coming, and during the Sacrament of the Most Holy Mass. In light of this, our attitude should change during "Adventus," or Advent, and here's how and why.

Jesus should be King of our lives, and here's why.

Msgr. Watkins gives the history of the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe instituted by Pope Pius XI in the wake of the First World War's devastation to call the faithful's attention away from earthly contestations and back to the true and rightful ruler of our lives: Christ the King.

Remember Jesus' words—a powerful reminder today that the world is fleeting, and what is of God is eternal: "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away" (Matthew 24:35).

Christ dwells in us as the building blocks of something grand—His Kingdom. What does your building look like?

Let's learn more about All Souls, All Saints, and St. John Henry Newman in this week's homily.

Pray with us.

Persistence may be hard, all things in life are hard. In Exodus, Moses is tired and weary but he is supported by Aaron and Hur to fulfill what the Lord wants. Then, Jesus in the gospel of Luke also speaks on persistence and to pray unceasingly without being weary. Jesus was weary on the cross with no assistance but he still cried out to his father that “thy will be done”. His sacrifice and his per...

Those who are grateful are happy. God is at work. He has his ways of communicating with us no matter what. We're only able to see a fraction of what He is doing.

People often ask how can a good merciful God allow for all the evil in our world to happen? The apostles experienced this question, asking Jesus to increase their faith, as people of faith can understand the evil of the crucifixion which was necessary as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. Being grateful to God is how people are able to put the evil of the world into perspective, having faith that g...