The fourth Saturday is usually a lot more fraternal, more hanging out, spending time with good men and the rest of us. But for this one, because we're having it at St. Mary's and I have always wanted to hear his story, I asked Mike Diacovo to entertain us with his story for a few minutes. So we're going to listen to his story, and then otherwise we're just going to have fraternal time.

The conversation revolves around a reflective discussion on the intersection of prayer and the passion of Christ. The speaker emphasizes that Jesus is the essence of prayer and that through prayer, one can experience a profound sense of joy and love from God. The speaker shares a personal story of how a conversation with a Catholic missionary led him to a deeper understanding of joy and love through prayer, ultimately transforming his life and leading him to dedicate his life to missionary work. The session concludes with a call to prayer and reflection on the crucifixion and death of Jesus.

Fasting is an ascetically practice recommended in the scriptures and the writings of the church fathers. It is sometimes prescribed by a precept of the church, especially during the liturgical season of Lent, which is why we're doing it now. If you look through scripture, you'll see that fasting is mentioned throughout as an aid to prayer.

Almsgiving is something that most people understand to the original definition, but they don't really get why or the meaning inside as far as what purpose it serves in God's plan. The definition according to the Greeks, Ili bon sine. Which means pity, mercy, and compassion. Catholicism brings up almsgiving in lieu of the poor and the needy. But who are the poor and the needy?