Podcast
Franciscan Fridays
Hosted by Franciscan Fridays · EN
Franciscan Fridays is a weekly podcast from the Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, featuring conversations with CFR Franciscan friars on faith, culture, and living the Gospel today. Join us each Friday for thoughtful reflections, spiritual insights, and engaging discussions rooted in Catholic truth and devotion to the Blessed Mother.
13episodes
Episodes
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Everyone Can Be a Saint: Pentecost Explained | 57
5d ago00:06:10Tap to summarizeWhat does the Holy Spirit actually do in our lives? Support the podcast and the Blue Army: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this Pentecost Sunday reflection, Brother Pius and Father Luke share how the Holy Spirit transforms ordinary people into saints through everyday holiness, heroic virtue, and surrender to God. From a powerful World Youth Day story in Rome to reflections on Padre Pio, St. Bernadette, and the Fatima children, this conversation explores the true meaning of sanctity — not extraordinary mystical gifts, but loving God faithfully in the concrete details of daily life. 🔥 Topics Covered: Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit What it means to become holy The lives of the saints as examples of transformation Padre Pio and heroic virtue How the Holy Spirit works in ordinary life Catholic spirituality and sanctification “Everyone can be a saint” 🙏 Prayer: “Come Holy Spirit, fill our hearts and make us holy.” 00:00 The Polish Sisters at World Youth Day 00:38 “Everyone Can Be a Saint” 00:51 Welcome to Franciscan Fridays 01:25 The One Big Pentecost Message 01:42 What Does the Holy Spirit Do? 02:01 Saints Become Holy Through Virtue 02:22 Theology vs Transformation 03:14 Becoming Partakers in the Divine Nature 03:31 Padre Pio and Heroic Virtue 04:07 Giving God a Blank Check 05:11 The Holy Spirit in Everyday Life 05:35 Medieval Saints vs Real Holiness 05:56 Come Holy Spirit Prayer
Transcribe →Kobe Bryant, Fatima & “The Job’s Not Finished”: A Catholic Message for Today | 56
2w ago00:17:29Tap to summarizeWhat does Kobe Bryant have to do with Our Lady of Fatima? Support the podcast and the Blue Army: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode from the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in New Jersey, we explore the surprising connection between Kobe Bryant’s famous “Job’s not finished” mentality and the ongoing mission of Fatima. Following the May 13 anniversary of the first apparition at Fatima in 1917, we reflect on: • The message of Our Lady of Fatima • The Blue Army pledge and spiritual mission • Daily Rosary and First Saturday devotion • Vocations, holiness, and perseverance • Spiritual warfare and living the Catholic faith wholeheartedly • Kobe Bryant’s Catholic faith and final Mass before his passing • How young Catholics can answer God’s call with courage and commitment The message of Fatima is simple but urgent: Pray the Rosary daily. Live your vocation faithfully. Pursue holiness. The job is not finished. Whether you are married, discerning religious life, single, or striving to grow spiritually, this conversation is an invitation to go “all in” for God. 🙏 Join the Blue Army 🙏 Commit to the First Saturdays devotion 🙏 Draw closer to Jesus through Mary Subscribe for more Catholic conversations, Fatima teachings, and spiritual encouragement from the National Blue Army Shrine. The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Fr. Luke’s “ Daily Homilies” Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jhj0ryoBG5vRl0ySGcRLk?si=c244d430b23a4057 Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Blue Army Jubilee Prayer Card: https://www.shopfatima.com/blue-army-press/ Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/
Transcribe →The TRUE Message of Our Lady of Fatima (Not the Conspiracies) | 55
3w ago00:18:28Tap to summarizeWhat do “May flowers” bring? Pilgrims. Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays at the Shrine, Brother Pius and Father Luke reflect on the message of Our Lady of Fatima as the 2026 Fatima season begins. From the first apparition on May 13, 1917, to today’s distracted digital culture, this conversation explores how Mary’s message remains simple, powerful, and deeply relevant: prayer, sacrifice, conversion, and peace. The friars discuss: The first apparition of Our Lady of Fatima Why God chose three humble shepherd children Prayer and the Rosary as heaven’s peace plan The danger of internet sensationalism and conspiracy theories How ordinary faithfulness changes the world Living the Catholic faith with simplicity and charity Why Fatima still matters in 2026 In a world filled with noise, division, and distraction, Fatima reminds us to return to the basics: prayer, the sacraments, Scripture, charity, and trust in God. 🙏 Dedicate yourself to praying the Rosary this May. 🙏 Seek peace through Christ and His Blessed Mother. 🙏 Live the faith faithfully in ordinary life. 📿 Subscribe for more Franciscan Fridays episodes. 🕊️ Leave a comment with topics you'd like covered in future podcasts. #Fatima #OurLadyOfFatima #Catholic #Rosary #Prayer #Franciscan #Mary #CatholicPodcast #Christianity #Faith #Conversion #Peace #OurLady #CatholicYouTube #SpiritualLife The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/ #OurLadyOfFatima #BlueArmyShrine #WorldApostolateOfFatima #CatholicShrine #BlueArmy #FatimaToday #FatimaMessage #FrLukeMaryFletcher #FatimaApparitions #FatimaMessages #CatholicDevotions #Fatima #FatimaApparitions #MarianDevotion #CatholicFaith
Transcribe →The Sacred Heart Explained: Healing Your Broken Heart Through Jesus & Mary - Ep. 54
4w ago00:20:05Tap to summarizeWhat does the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary really mean—and how does it relate to your own heart? Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke explore the deep biblical and spiritual meaning of the heart. Drawing from Scripture, the Catechism, and the message of Our Lady of Fatima, they unpack how the “heart” is not just emotion—but the very center of the human person. 💔 Ever felt broken, messy, or spiritually disconnected? You’re not alone—and that might actually be the place where God meets you most deeply. In this video, you’ll discover: Why the Sacred Heart of Jesus is central to Catholic devotion The meaning of the Immaculate Heart of Mary as refuge and guide How your broken heart can become a place of encounter with God The true meaning of prayer as “attuning” your heart to God’s will How First Friday and First Saturday devotions transform your interior life 🙏 “God will accept a broken heart—if He gets all the pieces.” Whether you’re new to Catholic spirituality or deepening your faith, this conversation offers a powerful invitation to authenticity, healing, and deeper prayer. The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Fr. Luke’s “ Daily Homilies” Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jhj0ryoBG5vRl0ySGcRLk?si=c244d430b23a4057 Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Blue Army Jubilee Prayer Card: https://www.shopfatima.com/blue-army-press/ Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/
Transcribe →Why Suffering is Necessary: Catholic Teaching explained | ep. 53
Apr 2400:16:20Tap to summarizeWhat if your suffering actually has a purpose? Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke explore a surprising teaching from Jesus—that suffering is “necessary.” Drawing from the Road to Emmaus, Scripture, and real-life experiences, they unpack how pain, trials, and even humor (yes… muffins 😂) can lead to growth, redemption, and deeper union with Christ. You’ll hear: The meaning behind Jesus’ words on suffering How to unite your struggles with Christ Why Good Friday is called “good” A powerful perspective shift that can transform your pain 🙏 Whether you’re going through a difficult season or just seeking deeper faith, this conversation will challenge and encourage you. The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Fr. Luke’s “ Daily Homilies” Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jhj0ryoBG5vRl0ySGcRLk?si=c244d430b23a4057 Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Blue Army Jubilee Prayer Card: https://www.shopfatima.com/blue-army-press Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/ 📢 Please Like, Share, and Subscribe! 🔔 Turn on notifications to stay updated with our latest content. #OurLadyOfFatima #BlueArmyShrine #WorldApostolateOfFatima #CatholicShrine #BlueArmy #FatimaToday #FatimaMessage #FrLukeMaryFletcher #FatimaApparitions #FatimaMessages #CatholicDevotions #Fatima #FatimaApparitions #MarianDevotion #CatholicFaith
Transcribe →The Light of Fatima Explained Glorified Body, Mary & the Easter Mystery - Franciscan Fridays Ep. 52
Apr 1700:18:26Tap to summarizeDiscover the profound mystery of divine light through the lens of Easter, the Resurrection of Jesus, and the apparitions of Our Lady of Fatima. Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this special collaboration episode, Father Luke Fletcher, Barbara Ernster, and Catie Moran explore: The glorified body of Jesus Christ after the Resurrection Insights from St. Thomas Aquinas on the qualities of the glorified body The powerful light experienced by the Fatima children Connections to Our Lady of Guadalupe and Our Lady of Lourdes Biblical themes of light vs. darkness from the Gospel of John Mystical parallels from saints like St. John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Ávila What did the children of Fatima really see? What is this “light” they described as God Himself? And how does it relate to our eternal destiny? This conversation dives deep into Catholic theology, Marian apparitions, and the spiritual meaning of light as a sign of God’s presence. ✨ Whether you're exploring Fatima, deepening your faith, or seeking spiritual insight during the Easter season, this episode offers powerful reflections and inspiration. 🙏 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to help spread the message of Fatima. 00:00 Introduction & Podcast Collaboration 00:58 The Glorified Body of Jesus Explained 02:00 Easter Season & the Meaning of Light 03:00 The Light of Fatima & the Children’s Experience 05:20 Why God Gave the Children This Vision 06:20 Connections to Scripture & Creation (Genesis & John) 07:00 Our Lady of Guadalupe & Divine Light 08:00 Our Lady of Lourdes & Supernatural Encounters 09:00 Light vs Darkness in the Spiritual Life 10:00 The August 13 Fatima Phenomenon (Witness Accounts) 11:30 Angel vs Mary: Different Spiritual Experiences 13:15 Saints, Mystics & Supernatural Light 14:00 Insights from Popes on Fatima & Light 16:00 The Immaculate Heart as Our Refuge 17:00 Living in the Light: Practical Spiritual Takeaways 18:00 Final Reflections & Outro The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Fr. Luke’s “ Daily Homilies” Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jhj0ryoBG5vRl0ySGcRLk?si=c244d430b23a4057 Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Blue Army Jubilee Prayer Card: https://www.shopfatima.com/blue-army-press/ Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/ 📢 Please Like, Share, and Subscribe! 🔔 Turn on notifications to stay updated with our latest content. #OurLadyOfFatima #BlueArmyShrine #WorldApostolateOfFatima #CatholicShrine #BlueArmy #FatimaToday #FatimaMessage #FrLukeMaryFletcher #FatimaApparitions #FatimaMessages #CatholicDevotions #Fatima #FatimaApparitions #MarianDevotion #CatholicFaith
Transcribe →Christ Is Risen… So Why Am I Still Struggling? | Spiritual Warfare Explained | Ep. 51
Apr 1000:13:32Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke explore a powerful and often misunderstood question: 👉 If Jesus conquered sin and death, why do we still experience spiritual warfare? Support the Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays From the reality of the Resurrection to the ongoing battle in the human heart, this discussion dives into: The biblical evidence of spiritual warfare after Easter The role of the demonic even after Christ’s victory Why struggles don’t mean you’re failing—but may mean you’re doing something right How to stay grounded through prayer, sacraments, and truth 💬 Whether you're wrestling with doubt, temptation, or simply trying to grow in faith—this message is for you. The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Fr. Luke’s “ Daily Homilies” Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jhj0ryoBG5vRl0ySGcRLk?si=c244d430b23a4057 Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Blue Army Jubilee Prayer Card: https://www.shopfatima.com/blue-army-press/ Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/
Transcribe →Good Friday & the Demonic: Can the Devil Really Influence Us | Ep. 50
Apr 300:20:04Tap to summarizeWelcome back to Franciscan Fridays! In this episode, we explore a deep and often misunderstood topic: the role of the demonic in Good Friday and the Passion of Jesus Christ. Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays Can the devil really influence human actions? Did evil forces play a role in the crucifixion? And what does the Catholic Church actually teach about spiritual warfare, temptation, and free will? Through Scripture, the Catechism, and reflections on figures like Judas, Peter, and the Pharisees, we unpack how sin, temptation, and grace interact in the story of salvation. 💡 Key themes in this video: The difference between temptation and possession Why the devil cannot “make” us sin The role of free will in the Passion of Christ How God brings good out of evil What Good Friday means for your personal struggles This conversation ultimately points to hope: no matter the darkness, Christ has already won the victory. The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Fr. Luke’s “ Daily Homilies” Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jhj0ryoBG5vRl0ySGcRLk?si=c244d430b23a4057 Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Blue Army Jubilee Prayer Card: https://www.shopfatima.com/blue-army-press/ Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/
Transcribe →The Sacred Heart Explained - Healing Your Broken Heart Through Jesus & Mary | ep. 54
Apr 300:20:05Tap to summarizeWhat does the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary really mean—and how does it relate to your own heart? Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke explore the deep biblical and spiritual meaning of the heart. Drawing from Scripture, the Catechism, and the message of Our Lady of Fatima, they unpack how the “heart” is not just emotion—but the very center of the human person. 💔 Ever felt broken, messy, or spiritually disconnected? You’re not alone—and that might actually be the place where God meets you most deeply. In this video, you’ll discover: Why the Sacred Heart of Jesus is central to Catholic devotion The meaning of the Immaculate Heart of Mary as refuge and guide How your broken heart can become a place of encounter with God The true meaning of prayer as “attuning” your heart to God’s will How First Friday and First Saturday devotions transform your interior life 🙏 “God will accept a broken heart—if He gets all the pieces.” Whether you’re new to Catholic spirituality or deepening your faith, this conversation offers a powerful invitation to authenticity, healing, and deeper prayer. The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Fr. Luke’s “ Daily Homilies” Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jhj0ryoBG5vRl0ySGcRLk?si=c244d430b23a4057 Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Blue Army Jubilee Prayer Card: https://www.shopfatima.com/blue-army-press/ Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/
Transcribe →From Ashes to Palms: The Hidden Meaning of Lent & Holy Week | ep. 49
Mar 2700:10:23Tap to summarizeWhat’s the connection between Ash Wednesday and Palm Sunday? Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Father Luke Fletcher and John Paul Caskey reflect on the powerful spiritual link between ashes and palms—and what it reveals about Lent, sacrifice, and the journey to Easter. From “Remember you are dust” to the triumphant palms of Palm Sunday, discover how these two moments come full circle in the Catholic faith. This reflection explores repentance, mortality, victory in Christ, and the hope of the Resurrection. Filmed at the Our Lady’s Blue Army Shrine in New Jersey. 🙏 Topics Covered: - Meaning of Ash Wednesday - Symbolism of Palm Sunday - Lent and spiritual conversion - Death, resurrection, and eternal life - Catholic teaching on penance and hope 00:00 Ash Wednesday Reminder 00:23 Introduction – Franciscan Fridays 00:44 Lent is Ending – Entering Holy Week 01:04 The Symbolism of Palms 02:10 Palms Become Ashes 02:40 Full Circle in the Faith 03:18 Mortality & Resurrection 04:18 Spiritual Meaning of Lent 05:01 Ashes: Death & Conversion 06:09 Dying to Self 07:14 Joy & Penitence 07:39 The Big Takeaway 08:14 Triumph Over Death 09:08 Easter is the Goal 09:48 Final Reflection & Hope The World Apostolate of Fatima is the Vatican’s official voice in proclaiming the authentic message of Our Lady of Fatima. The Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima is the National Headquarters of Our Lady's Blue Army. Fr. Luke’s “ Daily Homilies” Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Jhj0ryoBG5vRl0ySGcRLk?si=c244d430b23a4057 Join Our Lady of Fatima's Blue Army: https://www.bluearmy.com/join/ Support Our Mission: https://www.bluearmy.com Visit Our Shop: https://www.shopfatima.com/ Blue Army Jubilee Prayer Card: https://www.shopfatima.com/blue-army-press/ Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/
Transcribe →