Faith Matters is a weekly podcast for the Messenger newsletter of the Basilica School of Saint Mary, which gets distributed to Basilica School families. It features Father Edward Hathaway, the rector of the Basilica. In this week’s episode, Fr. Hathaway reflects on the Ascension of our Lord and what that means for us as Christians. He also invites …

How is it that a set of beads can be a tool of comfort, a means of contemplative prayer, and provide hope for those in need of spiritual direction? Hear how the Rosary, a gift given to us by the Blessed Virgin Mary, can become for us a guide to Heaven. In this episode, you will learn: The spiritual benefits the Rosary offers to those who pray it re…

Father Joseph Townsend, a parochial vicar, shares a homily during the Sixth Sunday of Easter. It was given in the Basilica on May 25, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

Today's episode features Dr. Nicolas McAfee, the Postdoctoral Teaching Fellow at the Center for Thomas More Studies who, in the fall, will join the faculty of Christendom College as Assistant Professor of Political Science and Economics, and Dr. Shaun Rieley, the Director of Educational Programs & Teaching Fellow at Hillsdale College’s Washington, …

Love One Another: Baccalaureate Mass 2025 by Fr. Aaron M. WilliamsBy Fr. Aaron M. Williams

Faith Matters is a new weekly podcast for the Messenger newsletter of the Basilica School of Saint Mary, which gets distributed to Basilica School families. It features Father Edward Hathaway, the rector of the Basilica. In this week’s episode, Fr. Hathaway reflects on recently celebrating 34 years as a priest. He also talks about the recent clergy…

Explore mental health through the lens of the Catholic faith with our special guest, Mental Health Clinician Coralys Quintero Muñoz. Let’s journey together toward hope and healing! In this episode, you will learn: The importance of Mental Health Awareness The role of faith in Mental Health Discover spiritual and practical steps for mental well-bein…

Faith Matters is a new bi-weekly Basilica of Saint Mary podcast that features conversations with Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, on topics of interest to Basilica parishioners and the Universal Church. Today's episode includes the recent priest convocation Father Hathaway and his brother priests attended. He also offers some ref…

Faith Matters is a new weekly podcast for the Messenger newsletter of the Basilica School of Saint Mary, which gets distributed to Basilica School families. It features Father Edward Hathaway, the rector of the Basilica. In this week’s episode, Fr. Hathaway ties the virtue of the month at the school -- patience -- to the Blessed Mother, who was the…

How do we walk through life every day with hope? Join Angela Sealana and special guest Stacie Afflerbaugh for encouragement on your daily journey. During our journey, you will: Learn ways to boost your hope each day Hear uplifting stories of God’s action in ordinary people’s lives Discover an event that helps women of all life stages maintain hope …

Today's episode features David Bereit, an internationally acclaimed pro-life leader, strategic advisor, and passionate Catholic convert who is also the founder of 40 Days for Life. His Theology on Tap talk was called “Love, Life, and Liberation: Uncovering the Power and Purpose of Humanae Vitae.” It was recorded at Murphy's Grand Irish Pub in Alexa…

Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, shares a homily during the Fourth Sunday of Easter. It was given in the Basilica on May 11, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

Faith Matters is a new weekly podcast for the Messenger newsletter of the Basilica School of Saint Mary, which gets distributed to Basilica School families. It features Father Edward Hathaway, the rector of the Basilica. Normally released via video, from now on Faith Matters will be recorded and released as a podcast. In this week’s episode, Fr. Ha…

Journey alongside a young San Antonio priest who was in Rome after the death of Pope Francis. Hear how Carlo Acutis’ original canonization schedule brought thousands of young people to Pope Francis’ funeral. In this episode, you will learn: Hear a first-hand account of the transfer of Pope Francis's body from Santa Marta to St. Peter's Basilica, fo…

Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, shares a homily during the Third Sunday of Easter. It was given in the Basilica on May 4, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

Transitional Deacon David Tines has been helping out at the Basilica since last August as part of his final year as a seminarian at Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Maryland. His home diocese is the Diocese of Lincoln, Nebraska, where he will be ordained on May 24, 2025. His last weekend helping out at the parish was April 26-27, 2025. In…

The guest in today's episode is Dr. Nicolas McAfee, the Postdoctoral Teaching Fellow at the Center for Thomas More Studies who, in the fall, will join the faculty of Christendom College as Assistant Professor of Political Science and Economics. He previews his May 20, 2025, conversation he will have with Dr. Shaun Rieley, the Director of Educationa…

In this episode, the monthly series called “What Are the Sisters Reading?” continues. For the month of May, Sister Emily Beata Marsh, FSP, and Sister Kathryn James, FSP, share about a book called "Eucharistic Amazement: Experience the Wonder of the Mass," by Father Randy Stice, the director of the Office of Worship and Liturgy for the Diocese of Kn…

Join Mary Jane Fox as she spiritually travels to the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Mother of Jesus, and Mother of all men and women. It is the first, largest, and oldest church dedicated to the Mother of God, and the final resting place of Pope Francis. During our journey, Mary Jane will discuss: Relic o…

Deacon Alex Solsma, a transitional deacon, shares a short reflection on Divine Mercy during Divine Mercy Sunday. It was recorded in the Basilica on April 27, 2025.By Basilica of Saint Mary

Deacon Aaron Zanca, a transitional deacon, shares a homily, his first, during the Second Sunday of Easter. It was recorded in the Basilica on April 27, 2025.By Basilica of Saint Mary

Deacon Alex Solsma, a transitional deacon, shares a homily, his first, during the Second Sunday of Easter. It was recorded in the Basilica on April 27, 2025.By Basilica of Saint Mary

Father Joseph Townsend, a parochial vicar, shares a homily during the Second Sunday of Easter. It was given in the Basilica on April 27, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

After the 12:10 p.m. Mass on April 25, 2025, Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, led a recitation of the Glorious Mysteries of the Holy Rosary, with musical meditations, for the repose of the soul of Pope Francis.By Basilica of Saint Mary

Faith Matters is a new bi-weekly Basilica of Saint Mary podcast that features conversations with Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, on topics of interest to Basilica parishioners and the Universal Church. Today's episode centers on the recent death of Pope Francis and the upcoming ordinations to the transitional diaconate of two Ba…

Along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, the risen Jesus appeared to His disciples and prepared breakfast for them. In that same sacred place, He offered Peter a moment of healing and restoration. In this episode, you will: Unpack the Gospel of John, chapter 21, to explore this powerful post-resurrection encounter. Discover the symbolism behind the c…

Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, shares a homily during Easter Sunday of the Resurrection of the Lord. It was given in the Basilica on April 20, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

Ever wondered how to carry your cross in daily life? Join Angela Sealana as she reflects on the Passion of Christ and shares insights from role models of faith. In this episode, you will: Discover the importance of meditating on Christ's Passion, especially during challenging times. Hear reflections from several saints who encourage us to dedicate …

Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, shares a homily during Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord. It was given in the Basilica on April 13, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

The Catholic Seniors Conference is almost here! Mary Jane Fox talks with Vivian Cantu and Ray Baird about why it's important to celebrate and support seniors. Hear how this special event helps seniors see their value and purpose. During our journey, you will learn: The story behind the Catholic Seniors’ Conference, an event organized by Pilgrim Cen…

Deacon David Tines, a transitional deacon, shares a homily during the Fifth Sunday of Lent. It was given in the Basilica on April 6th, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

Father James Searby, a parochial vicar, offers a reflection on the Fourth Joyful Mystery of the Rosary for our Communal First Saturday for April. It was recorded on April 5, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

The works of mercy have the power to change the world. Join Mary Jane Fox and Victor Negron as they discuss Pope Francis’ message of hope and how small, intentional acts of kindness can make a lasting impact. Discover how you can be a source of hope in your community. During our journey, you will learn: What is this letter from Pope Francis? What a…

In this episode, the monthly series called “What Are the Sisters Reading” continues. For the month of April, Sister Nancy Usselmann, FSP, shares about a book she wrote called "Media Fasting: Six Weeks to Re-Charge in Christ." Sister Emily Beata Marsh, FSP, was also present during the episode to ask Sister Nancy questions. Here are some things to co…

Join Angela Sealana as she explores the connections between Islam and Catholicism with Dr. Gabriel Said Reynolds, a professor of Islamic studies. Discover insights on fostering understanding and respect between our faith communities in this enlightening conversation. In this episode, you will learn: What is every Catholic's theological relationship…

Discover the inspiring virtues of St. Joseph! Join Mary Jane Fox as she explores how his life can guide our faith journeys. In this episode, you will learn: Hear St. Joseph's story, which is deeply rooted in scripture Discover virtues of St. Joseph that can guide you toward a deeper faith Unlock spiritual exercises to deepen your devotion to St. Jo…

Father Christopher Goodwin, an assisting priest, shares a homily during the Second Sunday of Lent. It was given in the Basilica on March 16, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

Aimee Redmann is a Basilica parishioner who is from Louisiana, where the Saint Joseph Altar is part of the Catholic culture there, especially in the New Orleans area. She shares about her devotion to Saint Joseph and talks about the history of the altar, which will be on display on Wednesday evening, March 19, in our Lyceum Auditorium. As part of t…

Father James Searby, a parochial vicar , shares a homily during the Fourth Sunday of Lent. It was given in the Basilica on March 30, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, shares a homily during the Third Sunday of Lent. It was given in the Basilica on March 23, 2025.By Basilica of St. Mary

Take a dive into the lives of some remarkable women, whose journeys exemplify the strength and resilience that faith can inspire. Mary Jane Fox and Angela Sealana shine a light on the stories of women saints who have made significant impacts throughout history. In this episode, you will learn: Who are some prominent Catholic women in history? Who a…

Father Jack Riley, the spiritual director of the diocesan retreat center, who will be leading our Lenten Parish Mission from March 10-13, shares a homily during the First Sunday of Lent. It was given in the Basilica on March 9, 2025. To learn more about the parish mission, click here: https://stmaryoldtown.org/2025lentenmission…

Join Deacon Tom and Mary Jane Fox as they explore the history, significance, and personal reflections on the Stations of the Cross. Learn how this powerful devotional practice serves as a spiritual pilgrimage and how praying the stations can deepen your faith and understanding of Christ's suffering. During our journey, you will: Explore how the Sta…

During a Theology on Tap talk on March 3, 2025, at Murphy's Grand Irish Pub in Alexandria, Virginia, Virginia Nyce, the Basilica's archival manager, shared about the history of Catholicism in Virginia. To learn more about the Basilica's history and its museum, click here.By Basilica of Saint Mary

Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, shares a homily during the Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time. It was given in the Basilica on March 2, 2025.By Basilica of Saint Mary

Father James Searby, a parochial vicar, offers a reflection on the Third Joyful Mystery of the Rosary, the Nativity, for our Communal First Saturday for March. It was recorded on March 1, 2025.By Basilica of Saint Mary

Dr. James Bergida, a professor of political science and economics at Christendom College, previews the subject of his upcoming four-week Lenten series in our Lyceum Auditorium – an introduction to Catholic Social Teaching. The series will share about the Catholic Church's "best-kept secret”: its social doctrine. Here are the dates of his talk: + Ma…

In this episode, the monthly series called “What Are the Sisters Reading” continues. For the month of March, Sister Julia Darrenkamp, FSP, shares about a book called "The Holiness of Ordinary People" by Madeleine Delbrêl. The book gathers together essays and notes written by Delbrêl, who was a French poet, social worker and lay missionary and has b…

Discover the beauty of religious life! Join Angela Sealana and her gests, Sr. Bernadette, Sr. Claire, and Elizabeth Molina as they share their unique journeys toward fulfilling their vocations. Their stories will inspire you to reflect on your own journey and the ways you can live out your faith in the world. In this episode, you will: Learn the me…

Father Peter Clem, a parochial vicar, shares a homily during the Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. It was given in the Basilica on February 23, 2025.By Basilica of Saint Mary