Lord's Day Reflections with Lawrence Westfall

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Fourth Sunday of Easter. The reading used for this reflection is from the Novus Ordo and is the Gospel according to St. John 10:1-10. In this lesson, we take a look at Jesus as the Good Shepherd on this Good Shepherd Sunday. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Happy Resurrection Sunday! Happy Easter! Conquered Grave, Empty Tomb, Living Saviour: The Triumphant Message We Proclaim Today! May our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ grant you a blessed Resurrection Sunday and should you listen to this after Easter, may God still bless you as you either continue to live out your Christian life and remain with Him or if you are trying to find him! God Love You!

Happy Palm Sunday! Happy Lord’s Day! This Palm Sunday I invite you to accept Christ into your heart. May this message encourage you to do just that! This Palm Sunday could be the new found joy in your life that will become your eternal Easter - Accept Him Now! May God grant you a blessed Holy Week and should you listen to this after Holy Week, may God still bless you as you either continue to search out for Him or remain with Him if your already a believing Christian! God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day!Today is the Fifth Sunday of Lent. The reading used for this reflection is from the Novus Ordo and is the Gospel according to St. John 11:3-7, 17, 20-27, 33-45. In this lesson, we take a look at the raising of Lazarus from the dead and how this Gospel reading can be applied to our lives. God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day!Today is the Third Sunday of Lent. The reading used for this reflection is from the Novus Ordo and is the Epistle to the Romans 5:1-2, 5-8. The reading this Sunday speaks about justification and faith. In this lesson, we take a look at how we are already saved (we are saved, we are being saved, and we will be saved in full). God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! This is the last Lord’s Day I will be reading from Lenten discourses of Archbishop John J. Swint. These particular chapters from his booklet “The Parables of the Kingdom” have proven ever so necessary to be read, reflected upon, and given to the world as a reminder of what was and still is the truths of our Catholic faith that should always be upheld. This faith, the Catholic faith, is the very faith and Church founded upon by Christ Himself, the Divine Redeemer of mankind, and our Lord and Saviour! Today, the parable focused upon is the Parable of the Net Cast into the Sea which is found in the Gospel reading according to St. Matthew 13:47-51.The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Parables of the Kingdom” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). Each episode title contains both the name of this work from Archbishop Swint and the title of the sermon. His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The kindly reception which has accorded my booklet ‘The Moral Law’ (which I read from during the Lenten Season of AD 2025) has given me courage to venture the publication of this second series of Lenten discourses on the ‘Parables of the Kingdom.’ This is in no way intended as a scientific treatise on these parables, but merely as a course of popular sermons that may be drawn from, or built up around, them. Also I am fully aware that there are other parables of the kingdom. But I have confined myself to the series of parables as found in the thirteenth chapter of the Gospel according to St. Matthew. I believe it is generally customary, or at least permissible, to refer to this group of parables as ‘The Parables of the Kingdom…’ I have myself been rather surprised at the extensive field which these parables of the kingdom cover, and I trust this booklet will help preachers of Lenten discourses to prepare without much effort a series of sermons that will be eminently useful to their audiences.”In continuing the Archbishop’s work and legacy over 90 years later, this work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the parables of our Lord and Saviour throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! For the next few weeks, I will be reading from Lenten discourses of Archbishop John J. Swint. These particular chapters from his booklet “The Parables of the Kingdom” have proven ever so necessary to be read, reflected upon, and given to the world as a reminder of what was and still is the truths of our Catholic faith that should always be upheld. This faith, the Catholic faith, is the very faith and Church founded upon by Christ Himself, the Divine Redeemer of mankind, and our Lord and Saviour! Today, the parable focused upon is the Parable of Hidden Treasure and Pearl of Great Price which is found in the Gospel reading according to St. Matthew 13:44-47.The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Parables of the Kingdom” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). Each episode title contains both the name of this work from Archbishop Swint and the title of the sermon. His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The kindly reception which has accorded my booklet ‘The Moral Law’ (which I read from during the Lenten Season of AD 2025) has given me courage to venture the publication of this second series of Lenten discourses on the ‘Parables of the Kingdom.’ This is in no way intended as a scientific treatise on these parables, but merely as a course of popular sermons that may be drawn from, or built up around, them. Also I am fully aware that there are other parables of the kingdom. But I have confined myself to the series of parables as found in the thirteenth chapter of the Gospel according to St. Matthew. I believe it is generally customary, or at least permissible, to refer to this group of parables as ‘The Parables of the Kingdom…’ I have myself been rather surprised at the extensive field which these parables of the kingdom cover, and I trust this booklet will help preachers of Lenten discourses to prepare without much effort a series of sermons that will be eminently useful to their audiences.”In continuing the Archbishop’s work and legacy over 90 years later, this work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the parables of our Lord and Saviour throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! For the next few weeks, I will be reading from Lenten discourses of Archbishop John J. Swint. These particular chapters from his booklet “The Parables of the Kingdom” have proven ever so necessary to be read, reflected upon, and given to the world as a reminder of what was and still is the truths of our Catholic faith that should always be upheld. This faith, the Catholic faith, is the very faith and Church founded upon by Christ Himself, the Divine Redeemer of mankind, and our Lord and Saviour! Today, the parable focused upon is the Parable of the Leaven which is found in the Gospel reading according to St. Matthew 13:33.The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Parables of the Kingdom” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). Each episode title contains both the name of this work from Archbishop Swint and the title of the sermon. His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The kindly reception which has accorded my booklet ‘The Moral Law’ (which I read from during the Lenten Season of AD 2025) has given me courage to venture the publication of this second series of Lenten discourses on the ‘Parables of the Kingdom.’ This is in no way intended as a scientific treatise on these parables, but merely as a course of popular sermons that may be drawn from, or built up around, them. Also I am fully aware that there are other parables of the kingdom. But I have confined myself to the series of parables as found in the thirteenth chapter of the Gospel according to St. Matthew. I believe it is generally customary, or at least permissible, to refer to this group of parables as ‘The Parables of the Kingdom…’ I have myself been rather surprised at the extensive field which these parables of the kingdom cover, and I trust this booklet will help preachers of Lenten discourses to prepare without much effort a series of sermons that will be eminently useful to their audiences.”In continuing the Archbishop’s work and legacy over 90 years later, this work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the parables of our Lord and Saviour throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. God Love You!

“Where Christ reigns, love reigns! Where love reigns, peace reigns!” A brief Christmas message as we enter the Christmas season. May God grant you all His many blessings and may you all have a Merry Christmas! God Love You!

This was originally a Substack article of mine (https://open.substack.com/pub/lawrencethezealot/p/good-people-go-to-hell?r=3hyxcs&utm_medium=ios), but it is so true and so necessary to be proclaimed vocally that I decided to release it in audio sermon form. Good people go to Hell everyday, those who have done good works go to Hell everyday, but those who have faith in Jesus Christ, do good works, and are good people can be saved from the fires of Hell. It all starts with Christ, it is through Christ that we find salvation and the path that leads to eternal life with Him in Heaven.This sermon isn’t meant to frighten anyone, but rather make clear that without having faith in Jesus Christ no one can be saved. God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the First Sunday of Advent. The reading used for this reflection is from the Novus Ordo and is the Gospel according to St. Matthew 24:37-44. In today’s reflection, we focus on the return of Christ at the consummation of the world. Also, the heresy of the pre-tribulation rapture is addressed. The title of this reflection might throw you off, but it is for to catch the attention of individuals who need to know the truth about the so-called rapture doctrine. As addressed in this reflection, this will be my last one until Christmas Day. I hope that God grants you a gracious and blessed Advent as we prepare for the Octave of Christmas! God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. Luke 23:35-43. In today’s reflection, the thieves on the Cross are looked back too and the salvation power of the Cross is proclaimed! Christ is King! God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the First Epistle to the Corinthians 3:9-11, 16-17 6:3-9. In today’s reflection, the Lateran Basilica and the Church’s one foundation is examined. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed or commonly called All Souls’ Day for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the Epistle to the Romans 6:3-9. In today’s reflection, the baptism of a person which transforms them into a Christian through a new birth in Christ is examined. Through this new birth, we receive a newness of life. A life which ultimately will lead the baptized to their eternal reward in Heaven with our Lord and Saviour forevermore. God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. Luke 18:9-14. In today’s reflection, the parable of the tax collector and the Pharisee is examined. One had humility and one had pride. One left justified and the other left unjustified. God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the Second Epistle to Timothy 3:14-4:2. In today’s reflection, 2 Timothy 3:16-17 is given a closer look as the topics of Sola Scriptura (Scripture/Bible Alone) and a defense of Biblical Inerrancy is laid down. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day!Today is the Twenty-Eighth Sunday of Ordinary Time for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. Luke 17:11-19. The reading this Sunday speaks ten lepers who were healed of leprosy and one who turned back. In this lesson, it is discussed of how we should be like the one leper who turned back to give thanks to Christ after Christ had healed him of his disease.If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! God Love You!

This is the final lesson in the Superiority of Christ (SoC) sermon given by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews. This sermon of St. Paul’s spans 10 chapters. In this episode I will be dissecting the eighth and final lesson from St. Paul’s sermon and preaching upon the topic. If you would like to follow along in your Bible, you can find it in Hebrews 10:1-18. This begins our next lesson of Christ being the Superior Sacrifice. In this lesson we discuss the perfect sacrifice that brought complete forgiveness of sins and ended the need of sacrifice after sacrifice. There is once a time for sacrifice after sacrifice, but because of Christ’s superior sacrifice there is no longer any need for endless sacrifices. This lesson begins the break that will be taken for the next month or two. If you would like to follow another podcast that I’ve created and will be using, you can find me at “Let’s Read the Bible with Lawrence Westfall.” If you would like to learn more about the Catholic faith, especially on a series about the sacraments, you can find that on another podcast of mine titled, “Answering Catholicism with Lawrence the Zealot.” Thanks be to God that you have embraced His Word and the teachings shared by a layperson. I have strived to uphold the Catholic faith unaltered and share it with you. Thanks for your interest in the Catholic faith, your prayers, and your support. Please know of my prayers for you. When I return, the lessons shall return to be focused on the Sunday readings from the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass - Novus Ordo Mass readings, Tridentine Mass Readings, and if possible, readings from the Divine Liturgy. May Jesus Christ bless and keep you! God Love You!

In the next few lessons of this podcast, we will be taking a look at the Superiority of Christ sermon given by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews. This sermon of St. Paul’s spans 10 chapters. In this episode I will be dissecting the seventh lesson from St. Paul’s sermon and preaching upon the topic. If you would like to follow along in your Bible, you can find it in Hebrews 9:1-28. This begins our next lesson of Christ being the Minister in a Superior Tabernacle. In this lesson we discuss the tabernacle not made for endless sacrifices, but the tabernacle where the ultimate sacrifice was made for mankind by God the Son, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in the presence of God the Father. May Jesus Christ bless and keep you! God Love You!

Our nation this week dealt with a political assassination, a school shooting, and the Anniversary of 9/11. It seems that every passing hour of this week has been a constant heartbreak as the forces of evil seem like they are winning. Yet we must not forget that there is a remedy in this hour of darkness. The remedy is found in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Where He is, darkness turns into light, death turns into life, and defeat turns into victory. In Christ is our victory found and He is the remedy to a nation that is sick to its core. Pray for those who are the victims of gun violence, pray for their families, and pray that the loving Father of the universe will heal the wounds of a broken nation. "Evil may have its hour, but God will have His day.” - Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. SheenGod Love You

In the next few lessons of this podcast, we will be taking a look at the Superiority of Christ sermon given by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews. This sermon of St. Paul’s spans 10 chapters. In this episode I will be dissecting the sixth lesson from St. Paul’s sermon and preaching upon the topic. If you would like to follow along in your Bible, you can find it in Hebrews 8:1-13 and Jeremiah 31:31-34. This begins our next lesson of Christ being the Minister of a Superior Covenant, the New Covenant. In this lesson we discuss the death of the Old Covenant and the covenant which succeeds it, the New Covenant. The Old Covenant was a Covenant of the Law, but the New Covenant is a Covenant of Grace, that is the Covenant we are currently under and will last forever as our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is it’s ultimate fulfillment. In this series episode I made a mistake by saying that the New Covenant will one day pass away, it will not. Unlike the Old Covenant, the New Covenant is permanent and everlasting. IT IS FOREVER! Christ did not come to break the law, but to fulfill it (St. Matthew 5:13). He certainly did fulfill it. He fulfilled it, ended it, and established a New Covenant for the people of God that is for everyone who is baptized with and in faith of Jesus Christ. May Jesus Christ bless and keep you! God Love You!

In the next few lessons of this podcast, we will be taking a look at the Superiority of Christ sermon given by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews. This sermon of St. Paul’s spans 10 chapters. In this episode I will be dissecting the fifth lesson from St. Paul’s sermon and preaching upon the topic. If you would like to follow along in your Bible, you can find it in Hebrews 4:14-5:10 and Hebrews 7:1-28. This begins our next lesson of Christ being superior to the Jewish Priesthood (Levitical Priesthood). May Jesus Christ bless and keep you! God Love You!

In the next few lessons of this podcast, we will be taking a look at the Superiority of Christ sermon given by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews. This sermon of St. Paul’s spans 10 chapters. In this episode I will be dissecting the fourth lesson from St. Paul’s sermon and preaching upon the topic. If you would like to follow along in your Bible, you can find it in Hebrews 4:1-11, which begins our next lesson of Christ being superior to Joshua. May Jesus Christ bless and keep you! God Love You!

In the next few lessons of this podcast, we will be taking a look at the Superiority of Christ sermon given by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews. This sermon of St. Paul’s spans 10 chapters. In this episode I will be dissecting the third lesson from St. Paul’s sermon and preaching upon the topic. If you would like to follow along in your Bible, you can find it in Hebrews 3:1-6, which begins our next lesson of Christ being superior to Moses. May Jesus Christ bless and keep you! God Love You!

In the next few lessons of this podcast, we will be taking a look at the Superiority of Christ sermon given by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews. This sermon of St. Paul’s spans 10 chapters. In this episode I will be dissecting the second lesson from St. Paul’s sermon and preaching upon the topic. If you would like to follow along in your Bible, you can find it in Hebrews 1:4-14 and Hebrews 2:5-18, which begins our next lesson of Christ being superior to the angels. Correction: At the end, you’ll hear that next Sunday will focus on Christ being superior to Joshua, that is in two weeks. Next week will focus on Christ being superior to Moses. Sorry to get you excited about Joshua, will get there, but first Moses! May Jesus Christ bless and keep you! God Love You!

In the next few lessons of this podcast, we will be taking a look at the Superiority of Christ sermon given by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews. This sermon of St. Paul’s spans 10 chapters. In this episode I will be dissecting the first lesson from St. Paul’s sermon and preaching upon the topic. If you would like to follow along in your Bible, you can find it in Hebrews 1:1-3, which starts us off with Christ being superior to the prophets. May Jesus Christ bless and keep you! God Love You!

In this week’s reflection, we turn to the missionary call of every baptized Christian. Taking a look at the Gospel according to St. Luke 10:2-3, we turn our gaze to the missionary work that we have been called to do in this world today. All of us have a mission as children and soldiers of God among the wolves of this world to boldly proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith. Let us not live as causal Catholics, but as heroic Catholics, bringing the entire world to Jesus Christ and His Holy Bride, the Catholic Church. Our Lord and Saviour has called you to something greater in your ordinary life, He has called you to do something extraordinary, to help Him call the world to salvation. The harvest is plentiful, now is the time to labour for the salvation of souls! Do not delay any longer. If you'd like to know more, please listen to this reflection. I hope it speaks to your heart and leads you to help advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ in this world today for the salvation of souls! God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost for the Tridentine Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. Luke 5:1-11. The reading this Sunday is about the miraculous catch of fish and the calling of St. Peter. In this lesson, it is discussed of how Jesus is calling each of us to be fishers of men in our daily lives as Christians. If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! God Love You!

Last week, I shared with you my conversion story. This week I’m sharing with you my first sermon after announcing my call to preach as a young Protestant before becoming Catholic. The Sermon comes from the Gospel according to St. Matthew 14:22-33.I do not process the second sermon that I preached, for it would also be my last before converting to Catholicism. Nevertheless, I hope you find this edifying for your soul and that it will encourage you to step out of the boat, begin walking on the sea, and trusting in Christ every step of the way. Above all else, pray for the salvation of souls! God Love You! This sermon was first preached on Sunday, November 24th, AD 2019 . It may contain Protestant elements of doctrine at times, therefore be careful in listening to it and holding certain things true.

Happy Lord’s Day! This podcast episode is a special edition. This isn’t the typical Sunday reflection, but rather my conversion to Catholicism from Protestantism. I hope this might be of benefit to your faith and soul. Please forgive my errors in speech during this podcast episode, none of which is on purpose. This has come from the heart to share with you. God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Fifth Sunday after Easter for the Tridentine Mass. The reading is from the Epistle of St. James 1:22-27.The reading this Sunday speaks of how we must not just be hearers of the Word, but also doers of the Word. Also, it speaks of how religion is a vital part of being a Christian. Being a Christian, having faith in Christ, is belonging to a religion. That religion is Christianity. In this lesson, it is discussed of what religion and relationship should truly mean to the Christian believer. It is also shown of how religion and relationship cannot be divorced from one another. A Christian can’t have a relationship with Jesus Christ without the aspect of the religion that is found in Christ, neither can one have the religion of Christianity without first having faith in Christ. If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! Please pray for me as I begin my mission trip this week and know of my prayers for you!God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Fifth Sunday of Easter for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the second reading from the Book of the Apocalypse (Revelation) 21:1-5. The reading this Sunday speaks about the new Heaven and new Earth where we will shall spend eternity with our God and God shall spend eternity with us. In this lesson, it is discussed of the home prepared for us where death, sadness, and sickness are no more. A home where we shall be with Jesus Christ forevermore! If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Fourth Sunday of Easter for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the second reading from the Book of the Apocalypse (Revelation) 7:9, 14-17. The reading this Sunday speaks the great multitude that will be found in Heaven, the tribulation period, and the triumph to follow the tribulation period when it’s all over. In this lesson, it is discussed of how me must of the great multitude to be found in Heaven, the pre-tribulation rapture heresy, and the great triumph to follow for those who keep the faith! If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Third Sunday of Easter for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. John 21:1-19. The reading this Sunday speaks about the appearances of Jesus after His resurrection and the reconciliation plus restoration of St. Peter. In this lesson, it is discussed of how me must like St. Peter strive to love Christ with our entire hearts and lives. If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is Low Sunday in the Tridentine Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. John 20:19-31. However, this is the same reading in the Novus Ordo Mass for this Second Sunday of Easter. I have chosen to use the biblical translation from the Tridentine Missal and therefore have opted to use name for this Sunday from the 1962 Mass. The title of this message comes from the phrase St. Thomas used after seeing and touching our Lord. “Dóminus Meus et Deus Meus” in Latin and “My Lord and My God” in English. The reading this Sunday speaks about the Sacrament of Confession/Reconciliation, doubting Thomas, and the mention of how everything Jesus said and did aren’t recorded in the Holy Bible. In this lesson you will find out how Christ instituted the Sacrament of Confession/Reconciliation and how it is recorded in Scripture and carried on through the ministry of the Church. We will look at the doubt of St. Thomas that Christ was truly risen and the profound meaning behind it. Last of all, we will see how “Sola Scriptura (Latin)” or “Scripture Alone (English)” is defeated using the Bible alone itself. It is my hope that you will enjoy this message and perhaps hear something you needed to hear or take away from this message something that you can use to evangelize to non-Catholics. Thank you for joining me on this Lord’s Day or whenever you might listen to this reflection/message. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Happy Resurrection Sunday! Happy Easter! Today is Easter Sunday or Resurrection Sunday as I like to call it for all three branches of Christianity this year! The reading comes from the Tridentine Mass for this Resurrection Sunday and is the Gospel according to St. Mark 16:1-7. The reading this Sunday is focused on the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. In this Resurrection Message, the focus is on the resurrection of Christ. Christ paid the ultimate sacrifice, the sacrifice of sacrifices, once and for all sacrifice on Mount Calvary so that we might be saved from eternal damnation, set free from the bondage of sin, and be able to live with Him in Heaven forever. The resurrection is the hope of that promise fulfilled and by Christ rising from the dead, so too we can rise from the grave of sin and death to new life in Christ forever. Because of Christ, we are free indeed! To anyone and everyone belonging to the Christian faith on this April 20th, In the Year of Our Lord 2025, Happy Easter and Resurrection Sunday! Let us pray that we may all be one as Jesus is one with the Father in Heaven (St. John 17:21). For those who entered the Church this year, Welcome Home! For those waiting to become Catholic and contemplating it, know of my prayers for you. For those thinking of returning home to the Catholic Church, Holy Mother Church, come and dine at the table. The Church is willing and ready to forgive and invite you back into the fold and restore you as if you’d never left. The Church is willing to restore you like the father who restored his lost son in the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). Christ has a plan to bring you to the fullness of truth on this earth in His Holy Catholic Church if you’re willing to listen and receive. Be patient as the Lord works in your life! One final time, Happy Easter and Resurrection Sunday! God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is Sixth (Palm) Sunday of Lent for the entire Church, but the readings of the Epistles and Gospels for this Sunday and the next five Sundays (six in total) will be coming from the Tridentine Mass. Today the Gospel reading is that which is the Last Gospel for Palm Sunday according to St. Matthew 21:1-9. The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Moral Law - Six Lenten Sermons On The Commandments Of God” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. The titles of these reflections will be the same titles to the sermons Archbishop Swint wrote and gave. This is why you’ll see in the title to this episode, “The Seventh, Eighth, and Tenth Commandments (of God)” which is what he titled the original sermon. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The only excuse for the appearance of this little book is the hope, on the part of the author, that it will be of some service, especially to priests in preparing a Lenten course on the Commandments of God. The Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack. There is need of preaching on the Commandments, which principally contain the moral law. The arrangement is purely arbitrary, the purpose being to compress the Ten Commandments into six sermons or instructions — one for each week of Lent. Both arrangement and treatment are the fruit of many years of experience.”So true is the fact that the, “the Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack.” Therefore, in the continuing of the Archbishop’s work in handing on the faith 90 years later, his work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the Commandments of God throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task during Lent out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, this Lent, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. For those wondering why most of the above paragraphs is the same as last week, this will remain pretty much the same throughout Lent. This is so any new listener will know where these Lenten reflections are coming from and who first wrote/preached them. Thank you for listening to these sermons inspired by Archbishop John J. Swint during this season of Lent.Archbishop Swint, Pray for Us!God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is Fifth (Passion) Sunday of Lent for the entire Church, but the readings of the Epistles and Gospels for this Sunday and the next five Sundays (six in total) will be coming from the Tridentine Mass. Today the Epistle reading is from Hebrews 9:11-15 and the Gospel reading is that which is according to St. John 8:46-59. The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Moral Law - Six Lenten Sermons On The Commandments Of God” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. The titles of these reflections will be the same titles to the sermons Archbishop Swint wrote and gave. This is why you’ll see in the title to this episode, “The Fifth, Sixth, and Ninth Commandments (of God)” which is what he titled the original sermon. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The only excuse for the appearance of this little book is the hope, on the part of the author, that it will be of some service, especially to priests in preparing a Lenten course on the Commandments of God. The Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack. There is need of preaching on the Commandments, which principally contain the moral law. The arrangement is purely arbitrary, the purpose being to compress the Ten Commandments into six sermons or instructions — one for each week of Lent. Both arrangement and treatment are the fruit of many years of experience.”So true is the fact that the, “the Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack.” Therefore, in the continuing of the Archbishop’s work in handing on the faith 90 years later, his work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the Commandments of God throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task during Lent out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, this Lent, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. For those wondering why most of the above paragraphs is the same as last week, this will remain pretty much the same throughout Lent. This is so any new listener will know where these Lenten reflections are coming from and who first wrote/preached them. I would like to remark about just wars and being involved. I forgot to make mention of it when recapping the points of the Archbishop’s sermon. One might ask: What would be a modern day example? An example would be if the United States of America attacked Canada or Greenland. It would be unjust to make war with countries just to make war or takeover. If the military was given orders or the draft imposed upon men and women were to happen, then the right and just thing would be to refuse such orders. The same with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is the Fourth (Laetare) Sunday of Lent for the entire Church, but the readings of the Epistles and Gospels for this Sunday and the next five Sundays (six in total) will be coming from the Tridentine Mass. For those wondering, “Laetare” is a Latin word meaning “Rejoice” in English! Today the Epistle reading is from Galatians 4:22-31 and the Gospel reading is that which is according to St. John 6:1-15. The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Moral Law - Six Lenten Sermons On The Commandments Of God” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. The titles of these reflections will be the same titles to the sermons Archbishop Swint wrote and gave. This is why you’ll see in the title to this episode, “The Fourth Commandment of God” which is what he titled the original sermon. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The only excuse for the appearance of this little book is the hope, on the part of the author, that it will be of some service, especially to priests in preparing a Lenten course on the Commandments of God. The Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack. There is need of preaching on the Commandments, which principally contain the moral law. The arrangement is purely arbitrary, the purpose being to compress the Ten Commandments into six sermons or instructions — one for each week of Lent. Both arrangement and treatment are the fruit of many years of experience.”So true is the fact that the, “the Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack.” Therefore, in the continuing of the Archbishop’s work in handing on the faith 90 years later, his work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the Commandments of God throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task during Lent out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, this Lent, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. For those wondering why most of the above paragraphs is the same as last week, this will remain pretty much the same throughout Lent. This is so any new listener will know where these Lenten reflections are coming from and who first wrote/preached them. God Love You!

In addition to the reflection given today on the Third Sunday of Lent (2025), I have added a little extension onto the reflection. This addition is not to cause controversy or to upset fellow members of the faithful, but rather to encourage them to sanctify their Sundays instead of doing it on Saturdays. For us Christians, Sunday is the Lord’s Day. No other day of the week can claim this. Saturday was once a day of rest, it is still the seventh day of the week. However, since Christianity began, Sunday has become the new day in which we as Christians must sanctify in celebration and commemoration of Jesus’s resurrection. Sunday, NOT SATURDAY, is the day set apart for us to worship with the sacrifice of Calvary being extended throughout all time in the sacrifice of the Mass. “Sunday is the day on which we all hold our common assembly, because it is the first day on which God, having wrought a change in the darkness and matter, made the world; and Jesus Christ our Saviour on the same day rose from the dead.” - First Apology of St. Justin Martyr (AD 155) The Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox hold their Sunday celebrations of Divine Liturgy on Sunday. The faithful that make up these communities are expected to worship on Sundays. If those in the Eastern Catholic rites and Eastern Orthodox jurisdictions don’t hold a Saturday Vigil/Anticipatory Liturgy to substitute the Sunday Divine Liturgy, then the Latin Rite has no excuse for a Saturday Virgil/Anticipatory Mass. Let Saturday be Saturday, and Sunday alone be the Lord’s Day! God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is the Third Sunday of Lent for the entire Church, but the readings of the Epistles and Gospels for this Sunday and the next five Sundays (six in total) will be coming from the Tridentine Mass. Today the Epistle reading is from Ephesians 5:1-9 and the Gospel reading is that which is according to St. Luke 11:14-28.The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Moral Law - Six Lenten Sermons On The Commandments Of God” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. The titles of these reflections will be the same titles to the sermons Archbishop Swint wrote and gave. This is why you’ll see in the title to this episode, “The Third Commandment of God” which is what he titled the original sermon. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The only excuse for the appearance of this little book is the hope, on the part of the author, that it will be of some service, especially to priests in preparing a Lenten course on the Commandments of God. The Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack. There is need of preaching on the Commandments, which principally contain the moral law. The arrangement is purely arbitrary, the purpose being to compress the Ten Commandments into six sermons or instructions — one for each week of Lent. Both arrangement and treatment are the fruit of many years of experience.”So true is the fact that the, “the Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack.” Therefore, in the continuing of the Archbishop’s work in handing on the faith 90 years later, his work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the Commandments of God throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task during Lent out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, this Lent, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. For those wondering why most of the above paragraphs is the same as last week, this will remain pretty much the same throughout Lent. This is so any new listener will know where these Lenten reflections are coming from and who first wrote/preached them. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is the Second Sunday of Lent for the entire Church, but the readings of the Epistles and Gospels for this Sunday and the next five Sundays (six in total) will be coming from the Tridentine Mass. Today the Epistle reading is from 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7 and the Gospel reading is that which is according to St. Matthew 17:1-9.The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Moral Law - Six Lenten Sermons On The Commandments Of God” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. The titles of these reflections will be the same titles to the sermons Archbishop Swint wrote and gave. This is why you’ll see in the title to this episode, “The Second Commandment of God” which is what he titled the original sermon. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The only excuse for the appearance of this little book is the hope, on the part of the author, that it will be of some service, especially to priests in preparing a Lenten course on the Commandments of God. The Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack. There is need of preaching on the Commandments, which principally contain the moral law. The arrangement is purely arbitrary, the purpose being to compress the Ten Commandments into six sermons or instructions — one for each week of Lent. Both arrangement and treatment are the fruit of many years of experience.”So true is the fact that the, “the Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack.” Therefore, in the continuing of the Archbishop’s work in handing on the faith 90 years later, his work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the Commandments of God throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task during Lent out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, this Lent, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. For those wondering why most of the above paragraphs is the same as last week, this will remain pretty much the same throughout Lent. This is so any new listener will know where these Lenten reflections are coming from and who first wrote/preached them. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is the First Sunday of Lent for the entire Church, but the readings of the Epistles and Gospels for this Sunday and the next five Sundays (six in total) will be coming from the Tridentine Mass. Today the Epistle reading is from 2 Corinthians 6:1-10 and the Gospel reading is that which is according to St. Matthew 4:1-11. The following lay reflections will be coming from the “The Moral Law - Six Lenten Sermons On The Commandments Of God” by Archbishop John Joseph Swint who served as the fourth (4th) bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling (Now: Wheeling-Charleston) from AD 1922 to his death in AD 1962 (40 Year Episcopal Reign). His Excellency, Archbishop John J. Swint (D.D. - Doctor in Divinity) wrote these sermons in the 1930s. The sermons are around 90 years old and as they were relevant in those times, they are still relevant today. Therefore, the Lenten reflections you will hear from me are from the very sermons Archbishop Swint once wrote and preached. The titles of these reflections will be the same titles to the sermons Archbishop Swint wrote and gave. This is why you’ll see in the title to this episode, “The First Commandment of God” which is what he titled the original sermon. Since it is his work, I can take no personal credit except for delivering these sermons through podcast. He wrote in the introduction of the book that contains these great sermons when they were originally released the following: “The only excuse for the appearance of this little book is the hope, on the part of the author, that it will be of some service, especially to priests in preparing a Lenten course on the Commandments of God. The Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack. There is need of preaching on the Commandments, which principally contain the moral law. The arrangement is purely arbitrary, the purpose being to compress the Ten Commandments into six sermons or instructions — one for each week of Lent. Both arrangement and treatment are the fruit of many years of experience.”So true is the fact that the, “the Christian moral law, as never before since Christianity began, is now under attack.” Therefore, in the continuing of the Archbishop’s work in handing on the faith 90 years later, his work is being put into a podcast episode to be able to be heard by everyone, wherever one might get their podcasts. This is that both clergy and faithful might gain insight, knowledge, and an increase of faith and love in the Commandments of God throughout the United States and the entire world. I must make clear, I am NOT a member of the clergy, but a simple layman trying to advance the Word of God taken from the Catholic Mass throughout the world to deliver lay reflections. Pray that my faith would not fail and that I should always deliver what the Holy Ghost permits me to deliver to you and every listener. I have personally undertaken this task during Lent out of my love and respect for the works of Archbishop Swint. May his memory be eternal, may he rest in the eternal peace of Christ, this Lent, I ask that you remember his soul in prayer. God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the Epistle of 1 Corinthians 15:54-58. The reading this Sunday speaks about the victory we have in Christ. In this lesson, it is discussed how we labor not in vain, but for a just cause, that cause being Jesus Christ! Because of Christ, death has been conquered and sin has been defeated. If we believe this, we will inherit, and go from that which is corruptible to that which is incorruptible, and no longer put on clothes of mortality, but rather clothes of immortality. God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is Sexagesima Sunday in the Tridentine Mass. The reading is from the Epistle of 2 Corinthians 11:19-33; 12:1-9. The reading this Sunday speaks about the infirmities of St. Paul and how he gloried in Jesus Christ through his sufferings and what he saw. In this lesson, it is discussed how we should be like St. Paul and rejoice in our infirmities, not in ourselves, but in Christ. “And he said to me: my grace is sufficient for thee: for power is made perfect in infirmity. Gladly therefore will I glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me” (2 Corinthians 12:9). God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time for the Novus Ordo Mass. The reading is from the Book of Jeremiah 17:5-8. The reading this Sunday speaks about those place their trust in humans versus those who put their trust in God. In this lesson, it is discussed of how me must not trust in fallible men, but rather place our trust in Almighty God. If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany in the Tridentine Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. Matthew 13:24-30. The reading this Sunday speaks about the evil sower who is Satan who comes to sow cockle, that which represents evil, among the wheat, which represents the good.In this lesson, judgement, the modernist agenda, and keeping our eyes on Christ is the main three topics. If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! God Love You!

Happy Lord's Day! Today is the Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany in the Tridentine Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. Matthew 8:23-27. The reading this Sunday speaks about when Jesus calms the storm after being asking by the Apostles who lacked faith in the Master of the Sea. In this lesson, the attitude of Christ and His Apostles during this event is examined plus that of how we must place our entire faith and trust in Jesus Christ when the storms of life rage. If you'd like to hear more, then give this episode a listen! God Love You!

In addition to this podcast, I am launching a catechetical and apologetic branch called “Answering Catholicism with Lawrence the Zealot.” Soon this podcast and the new one in the making will launch on other podcast networks to further advance the Catholic faith. God Love You!

Happy Lord’s Day! Today is the Second Sunday after the Epiphany in the Tridentine Mass. The reading is from the Gospel according to St. John 2:1-11. The reading this Sunday speaks about the Wedding Feast at Cana. Many know that this is the first miracle performed in John’s Gospel and the first miracle Christ performed. This began the Lord Jesus Christ’s ministry on earth. You may ask: Did anyone prompt Christ to begin His ministry? If so, at whose request did Jesus begin His ministry? In this lesson you will find that out and you will understand why having recourse to this person after Christ is most effective. As Christ is our only mediator, this person is our most powerful intercessor after the mediation of Christ. God Love You!