Franciscan Fridays

Franciscan Fridays

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.

  1. 5D AGO

    Nighttime Prayer Routine for Better Sleep | Catholic Night Prayer & Peace of Heart | ep. 43

    Nighttime Prayer Routine for Better Sleep: Catholic Night Prayer & Peace of Heart | Ep. 43 Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays Struggling to sleep? Racing thoughts, anxiety, noise, or stress at night? In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke talk honestly about nighttime routines, Catholic night prayer, and how to end your day with peace—spiritually and practically. From the Church’s Night Prayer (Compline) and the Examen of Conscience, to gratitude, surrender, Marian prayers, Eucharistic adoration, and practical tips for anxious minds, this conversation explores how prayer before bed can transform sleepless nights into moments of trust and rest in God. They also share real-life experiences—city noise, summer heat, racing thoughts, and exhaustion—and offer simple, realistic practices like prayer, journaling before bed, and surrendering worries to Jesus. If you’re looking for Catholic guidance on nighttime prayer, anxiety, gratitude, and spiritual habits before sleep, this video is for you. Share in the comments what helps you end your day well. 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&nd=1&dlsi=67e2ad332fa84767 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/yoh-pc-year-of-hope-jubilee-prayer-card.html Invite the Pilgrim Virgin to your parish: https://fatimatourforpeace.com/ Fatima Today Podcast: https://listen.bluearmy.com/

    18 min
  2. FEB 6

    The Morning Offering: A Catholic Morning Routine That Changes Everything | Franciscan Fridays - Ep. 42

    Struggling with mornings? Tired of productivity hacks that don’t actually change your life? Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays at the Shrine, Father Luke and Brother Pius explore the Catholic Morning Offering — a powerful, centuries-old prayer that transforms your entire day by offering it to God. Rooted in the spirituality of the early Church, the Blue Army of Our Lady of Fatima, and saints like St. Louis de Montfort, St. Maximilian Kolbe, and St. Pope John Paul II, the Morning Offering helps you unite every thought, word, and action with the sacrifice of the Mass. You’ll learn: What the Morning Offering really is (and where it comes from) Why it’s more powerful than modern “morning routines” How offering your day changes your spiritual trajectory The connection between the Morning Offering, the Mass, and Marian devotion A simple way to begin each day with the Rosary Whether you’re not a morning person, new to prayer, or looking to deepen your Catholic spiritual life, this video offers a practical and life-changing habit you can start tomorrow morning. 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/

    19 min
  3. JAN 29

    Why God Allows Temptation Spiritual Combat & the Rosary | Franciscan Fridays ep. 41

    Why God Allows Temptation Spiritual Combat & the Rosary | Franciscan Fridays ep. 41 Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays Why does God allow temptation—and how can it actually purify the soul? In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke explore spiritual combat, temptation, and the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary. Why does God allow temptation, and how can resisting it actually make us holier? In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke reflect on the Temptation of Christ in the Desert, a powerful moment that follows Jesus’ Baptism and deepens our understanding of the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary. Recorded at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima (Blue Army Shrine) in New Jersey, this conversation draws from Sacred Scripture, the Desert Fathers, St. Ignatius of Loyola, St. Padre Pio, and St. Augustine to explore spiritual combat, virtue, grace, and God’s long game in our salvation. Topics include: • Why temptation is not sin • How resisting temptation strengthens virtue • Padre Pio’s famous “soap” analogy • God’s grace at work in spiritual battles • Healing temptation through both spiritual and psychological means • Why falling doesn’t mean failure in the Christian life Whether you’re struggling with recurring temptations or seeking deeper prayer through the Rosary, this episode offers hope, wisdom, and encouragement. 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

    14 min
  4. JAN 16

    Ordinary Time Isn’t Boring: Living Extraordinary Faith in Daily Life | Franciscan Fridays Ep. 39

    Ordinary Time can feel gray, quiet, and even boring—but is it really? Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays at the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Fr. Luke Mary Fletcher and John Paul Gutschke explore the extraordinary grace hidden in ordinary life. Drawing from the message of Our Lady of Fatima, the wisdom of Sister Lucia, and the spirituality of daily duty, this conversation reveals how holiness is lived not through flashy moments—but through faithful love in everyday life. We reflect on: What “Ordinary Time” truly means in the Church The forgotten heart of the Fatima message Why Sister Lucia emphasized daily duties over dramatic devotions The power of the First Saturday Devotion Eucharistic miracles, modern saints like St. Carlo Acutis, and the miracle that happens every day at Mass This episode is a reminder that there is nothing ordinary about fidelity to God—even in winter, even in silence, even in routine. 📿 Whether you’re struggling spiritually, feeling dry in prayer, or simply wondering how to live your faith more authentically, this conversation 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/ 📢 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

    14 min
  5. JAN 9

    Jesus Made HOW Much Wine?! The Wedding at Cana Explained | Franciscan Fridays Ep. 38.mp3

    What really happened at the Wedding at Cana—and why does it matter for your life today? Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke dive deep into the Second Luminous Mystery of the Rosary: Jesus’ first miracle—turning water into wine at the Wedding at Cana. From the shocking overabundance of wine (nearly 200 gallons!) to Mary’s powerful words, “Do whatever He tells you,” this mystery reveals God’s hidden generosity, the meaning of marriage, the Eucharist, and our ultimate call to union with God. Whether you’re married, single, religious, divorced, widowed, or discerning your vocation—this mystery is for you. 📿 Topics include: Why Jesus’ first miracle was hidden God’s generosity and grace Mary’s role as intercessor Marriage, vocation, and the Eucharist Why Cana speaks to every state of life 🙏 Support the Shrine If you’d like to help beautify this sacred place in the hills of Warren County, New Jersey, please consider donating.  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 #livefatimadaily

    13 min
  6. JAN 2

    The Star of the Magi vs Secular Fame: Epiphany Explained | Franciscan Fridays ep. 37

    Celebrate the Christmas season as we approach Epiphany with this powerful reflection on the Star of the Magi and its meaning for our lives today. Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke explore the biblical prophecy from Numbers 24, the journey of the Three Magi, and how God used even secular signs to reveal Christ to the world. They compare the Star of Bethlehem with modern secular symbols of fame—like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Times Square New Year’s Ball Drop—to uncover the difference between worldly glory and divine truth. This conversation touches on: The prophecy of the Star and Scepter in Scripture The Magi’s journey and God’s universal call Epiphany as the manifestation of Christ How God speaks through everyday life Why true honor lifts us up instead of being walked on ✨ Epiphany reminds us that God is always revealing Himself—if we have eyes to see. 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/donate   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/

    9 min
  7. 12/25/2025

    Christmas Isn’t Over: Finding Joy, Hope, and Healing After Christmas | Franciscan Fridays Ep. 36

    Christmas doesn’t end on December 25. In this episode of Franciscan Fridays at the Shrine, Brother Pius and Father Luke reflect on why the Catholic Church celebrates Christmas as a season—and how the mystery of Christ’s birth holds both deep joy and real sorrow. Support the podcast:  https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays Through personal stories, Franciscan spirituality, and Catholic tradition, this conversation explores: Why Christmas lasts beyond one day How joy and grief often coexist during the holidays Jesus entering fully into our humanity—our suffering and our hope The connection between Bethlehem, the Eucharist, and the Resurrection If Christmas is a joyful time for you—or a difficult one marked by loss or loneliness—this reflection offers encouragement and hope rooted in Christ’s coming into the world. 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/donate   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/ #OurLadyOfFatima #BlueArmyShrine #WorldApostolateOfFatima #CatholicShrine #BlueArmy #FatimaToday #FatimaMessage #FrLukeMaryFletcher #FatimaApparitions #FatimaMessages #CatholicDevotions #Fatima #FatimaApparitions #MarianDevotion #CatholicFaith

    9 min
  8. 12/19/2025

    A Catholic Christmas Light Festival That Tells the Whole Story of Salvation | Franciscan Fridays

    Discover how a Catholic Christmas Festival of Lights can become a powerful journey through salvation history — from the Garden of Eden, through the Old Testament prophecies, to the Nativity of Jesus Christ and the New Jerusalem. Support the podcast: https://tinyurl.com/franciscanfridays In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius, Father Luca, and Father Luke walk you through the inspiration, prayer, and meaning behind the Christmas Festival of Lights at Our Lady’s Shrine in New Jersey. Rooted in Franciscan spirituality and the love of St. Francis of Assisi for Christmas, this immersive display uses light, music, Scripture, and symbolism to invite visitors into prayer. You’ll learn: Why Franciscans love Christmas so deeply How Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming The Old Testament prophecies that lead to Jesus The spiritual meaning behind each section of the light display How slowing down helps us encounter the joy of Christmas 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/

    16 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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.

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