Podcast
The Good Word
Hosted by Fr. Robert Cooper · EN
Our priests and deacons break open God's Word each day at Mary, Queen of Peace in Mandeville, Louisiana. Listen and learn how you can relate the Gospel to your every day life!
6episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
For the Glory of God
Jul 800:07:48Tap to summarizeAs America approaches its 250th anniversary, it is worth reflecting on the biblical foundation upon which this nation was built. From the wooden cross planted at Cape Henry in 1607 to George Washington's first presidential address, the evidence is clear that this civilization was established for the glory of God. Like ancient Israel, however, America has drifted far from that foundation, exchanging the light of God for the idols of culture, politics, and moral relativism. The only true hope for this nation is not found in governments, courts, or financial markets. It is found in one name alone: Jesus Christ. As Catholics, we are called to repent, to stand firm, and to bend our knee before Him alone, come what may.
Transcribe →True Christian Hospitality
Jun 3000:12:41Tap to summarizeTrue Christian hospitality is far more than polite greetings or dinner parties. Rooted in Scripture and modeled by saints like Benedict, it means genuinely opening the door of your heart to another person. From Abraham welcoming strangers to the woman of Shunem keeping a room ready for the prophet Elisha, the Bible consistently shows that welcoming others is central to the life of faith. Jesus Himself promised that whoever welcomes His disciples welcomes Him, and that even a cup of cold water given to the least will not go unrewarded. In a world more digitally connected than ever yet more deeply lonely than ever, the call to real, personal hospitality has never been more urgent. Faith is passed on through relationship, and the people around you will remember not what you said, but how you made them feel. This week, make one intentional, personal act of genuine welcome toward someone in your life.
Transcribe →Seen, Known, Loved
Jun 2600:12:54Tap to summarizeFear has a way of taking hold before we even realize it, but Jesus offers a powerful reminder: you are seen, you are known, and you are deeply loved. Using the image of a sparrow, one of the most common and overlooked birds in the world, Jesus makes the point that if God's care reaches even the smallest creature, how much more does it reach you. God's love is both expansive and personal. It covers everyone, and it reaches you specifically, in the middle of your fears, your struggles, and your circumstances. Fear is one of the greatest obstacles to faith, and Jesus speaks directly to it: do not be afraid, you are worth more than many sparrows. We are never sent through life alone. God goes with us, and He places us in community so we can carry one another. His door is always open. The question is whether we are willing to walk through it.
Transcribe →True Food & True Drink
Jun 2000:13:38Tap to summarizeThe Eucharist represents the most profound mystery of Catholic faith, where Jesus Christ becomes truly present in bread and wine through consecration. Just as homemade bread requires personal investment and love, Jesus poured His entire life, death, and resurrection into giving us this gift. When we receive Holy Communion, we become living tabernacles where Christ dwells. Recent surveys show only one-third of Catholics believe in the Real Presence, despite Jesus clearly teaching that we must eat His body and drink His blood to have life within us. The Eucharistic miracle of Lanciano provides scientific evidence of this reality, where bread became actual human heart tissue. We must approach Communion with reverence and faith, allowing this encounter to transform us into Christ's presence in the world.
Transcribe →A Spirit Filled Recharge
Jun 1800:12:35Tap to summarizeThe Feast of Pentecost celebrates the Holy Spirit's outpouring upon the apostles, transforming fearful disciples into bold proclaimers of the Gospel. Just as devices need batteries to function, our spiritual lives require the Holy Spirit's power to truly come alive. True power comes not from worldly pursuits like fame or wealth, but through surrendering to the Spirit's movement. The Spirit brings unity wherever present and always leads us outward in mission and service. A Spirit-filled life produces discernment, direction, and fruitful ministry. We must regularly maintain our spiritual connection through prayer, sacraments, and openness to God's grace.
Transcribe →Why Jesus Loves Sinners
Oct 2900:12:57Tap to summarizeJesus' parable of the Pharisee and tax collector reveals why God's heart is drawn to those who recognize their need for mercy. The self-righteous Pharisee listed his religious accomplishments and looked down on others, while the humble tax collector simply pleaded for God's mercy. Jesus declared the tax collector righteous, not the Pharisee. This story teaches us that Jesus loves sinners because they know they need to grow, they don't judge others harshly, and ultimately, we are all sinners in need of grace. The danger lies in spiritual pride that causes us to feel superior to others rather than approaching God with humility.
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