Reflections from St. Ann DC

In this week's homily, Fr. Maximo Stock explains the five pieces of advice that the rich man should have considered taking that could have helped him break through indifference and connect with others. Take a listen.

In today's homily, His Eminence Cardinal Wuerl preaches the importance of Catholic Charity and how we, unlike the wealthy gentile in today's reading, must find humility and recognize the sin of greed in ourselves before it is too late.

In Fr. Maximo's homily this week, he repeats Jesus' words asking us to have the shrewdness of the children of this world, while at the same time the integrity of the Children of Light. "Be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves," Jesus says in Matthew 10:16. Let's learn how.

It's easy to write people off, but we can learn from everyone. We need to make the distinction: We learn from the world, without becoming entrenched in the world's sin. How do we make this distinction?

Have you ever wanted to know more about the history, architecture, art and foundation of our parish? This is your chance!

Why is the cross so important? In the midst of many recent tragedies, we commemorate the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, which has healing powers we cannot comprehend - in, and beyond, this world. Take a listen as Fr. Aaron Stettler explains the beauty of the cross.

Monsignor Watkins discusses how Jesus called us to give up our possessions in order to follow him as a disciple, as well as ways to reduce the weight of our physical or mental possessions.

Fr. Maximo Stock explains how Jesus provides a model of leadership. The Christian leader puts others first at the expense of him- or herself.

Fr. Ivan Pertine speaks about the disposition necessary for entering the Kingdom of Heaven.

Msgr. Watkins speaks on the substance of the Mass and what should be our focus each Sunday.

We don't desire too much...we desire too little.

Jesus gives us peace, but we shouldn't expect it in the world.

Why must Mary, our Virgin Mother and the Mother of God, be human? Why is it necessary that she not die? Learn the answer to these questions and more in today's homily podcast with Msgr. James Watkins, our pastor.

What difference could one little coin make? Let's find out.

In today's homily, Msgr. Watkins reflects on how we as Catholics put our faith into practice, and how, even though it may be difficult at times, faith in the Lord brings great joy.

Monsignor Watkins reflects on the hoarding of physical possessions but also how people around us and our obsessions can possess us as well. He urges us to give one possession, tangible or intangible to God.

Why should we pray if God already knows our desires and needs? Discover the profound purpose and transformative power of prayer as explained by Fr. Maximo Stock in this thoughtful and enlightening episode of our podcast. Tune in now to explore this essential aspect of faith. Book suggestion: In the Shadow of His Wings

Msgr. Watkins invites guest Priest Fr. Dave O'Connor to speak on his decade of work as a missionary in the southeastern Peru and to describe the joys and hardships in that place.

In today's reading, Jesus gently corrects Martha who is doing chores while Jesus is teaching. While Mary chose "the better part," what Martha is doing is still good. Both are serving Christ. However, Mary listened to Jesus first, before taking action, while He was speaking and teaching in her home; this is key.

What is the difference between love and charity? Hint: You do not need to like someone to show them love — that's charity.

Fr. Ivan explains just four easy steps to evangelize on our mission as missionary disciples: look around, pray, approach and invite. The three attitudes to take this a step further are: be poor, approach people without second intentions, and approach people with joy.

Fr. Ivan explains the key roles of Saints Peter and Paul in their apostleship, and applies their examples to the present day: "We need prudence and boldness; we need tradition and renewal; we need structure and creativity."

What does it mean to consume the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ?

Listen to the mystery of the Holy Trinity explained, through the way we love one another!

Msgr. Watkins discusses the complexity and the mystery of the Trinity and how our faith is special. The connections between the 3 persons of the Trinity are elaborate but make more sense through the love of the Father.