
The Catholic Deacon
By Deacon Stephen Valgos
The Catholic Deacon is directed primarily to sharing reflections on Sacred Scripture from the weekday or Sunday lectionary, as well as Catholic teachings from the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Listen, share, and support!
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9.22.21 Wed. Homily: On A Journey
The Catholic Deacon • By Deacon Stephen Valgos • Sep 23, 2021
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1.4.23 CCD Homily: Called to Be Saints
Deacon Stephen teaches the youth that each of us is called, like Elizabeth Ann Seton, to be a saint.
05:42
January 04, 2023

1.1.23 S. Homiy: An Heir
Deacon Stephen teaches that with the birth of Jesus Christ, we have become adopted children of God, inheritors of the riches of eternal life!
12:39
January 01, 2023

12.25.22 S. Homiy: The Visita
Today is John’s Gospel…no shepherds, no magi, no kings, no baby Jesus. John teaches if you want to know where Jesus came from, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. All things came to be through him...The true light that enlightens everyone was coming into the world.” In Jesus, the fullness of God, the eternal and invisible Word has visited his people. It’s the greatest visita of all time. The visita of vistas!
12:59
December 25, 2022

12.18.22 S. Homily: Emmanuel
As we arrive at this final Sunday of Advent, Deacon Stephen explains that peace and love is what this Christian things is truly all about, after all. In Jesus, through the incarnation, God brings peace to the human heart. Not anxiety, not fear, not guilt or shame, but peace and comfort, and calm. That’s how you know Emmanuel–God is with us.
12:18
December 18, 2022

12.14.22 Advent Mission Day 3 - The Eucharist. Food for the Journey
Deacon's part of this three part series is an explanation of the Eucharist and how God has provided this food from heaven as food that nourishes us through the journey of life. This is the bread that comes down from heaven during each Mass that we might be fed and remain strong to fight the good fight and enter into eternal life.
55:39
December 14, 2022

12.14.22 CCD Homily: Jesus
Deacon Stephen teaches the youth that God desires to be with us, one with us, and to speak and act through us. The name of Jesus itself means, "Jesus Saves." That's his name, that's his mission, but he does not save us without us. We must respond.
13:56
December 14, 2022

12.11.22 S. Homily: Joy and Patience
Deacon Stephen explains that it the readings today, St. James says, “The farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient with it. You too must be patient…Do not complain about one another, that you may not be judged.” Today’s message is quite clear, “If you want joy, stop trying to control the world.” Let God be God, everything in its proper time–God’s time, not ours.
13:10
December 11, 2022

12.7.22 CCD Homily: Nothing Is Impossible For God
Deacon Stephen teaches the youth that with god, nothing is impossible. No matter how dark, no matter how bad, with God there is always the possibility of redemption, restoration, and healing--and because of that, hope.
10:32
December 07, 2022

12.4.22 S. Homily: God is Just
Deacon Stephen explains that we live in a time when the leaders of homes, of schools, and of governments have become weak. In a misdirected and misunderstood desire to show love and mercy, we have failed to love and teach justice. If we are going to truly love, first justice, then mercy. First the truth of consequences for wrongful actions, and then generosity and support while those consequences are endured. Today’s readings speak of warning, repentance, and consequences. St. Augustine of Hippo said, “Don’t imagine that you love your children when you never discipline them, or that you love your neighbors when you never admonish them. This isn’t love, but mere weakness. Let your love be eager to correct, to reform.” God is love and God is just.
14:31
December 04, 2022

11.30.22 CCD Homily: God is Just
Deacon Stephen explains that we must always be mindful that God is just. God gives to each what is rightfully theirs. Reward to whom reward is due, and consequence to whom consequence is due. Our world often acts unjustly in a desire to love, but love and justice are found perfectly in God.
10:53
November 30, 2022

11.27.22 1st S. Advent Homily: Climb!
Deacon Stephen teaches as we begin Advent, we should be motivated as we begin to climb the Lord’s mountain this year. We should be filled with the hope that marks this first Sunday of Advent–but we must prepare. It sounds amazing to sit in God's presence and enter into His peace, but first we must climb. The Christian life demands focused, concerted effort.
13:01
November 27, 2022

11.24.22 Thanksgiving Day: Give Thanks!
Deacon Stephen teaches true joy begins by thanking God all throughout our day for the blessings of life, children, grandchildren, food on our table, a job, a roof over our head. The leper did it in a loud voice. So should we! Make your faith known to all. St. Paul tells the Thessalonians, “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks.” (5:16)
11:45
November 24, 2022

11.20.22 S. Homily: King of the Castle
Deacon Stephen explains that when we recognize Jesus as the king, we are obedient to his voice. Jesus as king comes with implications.
10:32
November 20, 2022

11.16.22 CCD Homily: Obey the King
Deacon Stephen tells the youth that Jesus is the King of the Universe, the king of the castle, and it is to Him that we owe our obedience.
10:37
November 16, 2022

11.13.22 Sun. Homily: Persevere
Deacon Stephen reminds us that Jesus’ point is that we have a tendency to be overly impressed with the things of the earth, and when they are destroyed we are shaken–we’re upset. Today he tells us we should expect difficulty and suffering in this life. He is the way to joy and happiness--not stuff. Stuff will always let us down!
14:22
November 13, 2022

11.9.22 CCD Homily: Courageous
Deacon Stephen speaks to the youth about the importance of being courageous in the faith life.
11:01
November 09, 2022

11.6.22 Sun. Homily: God's Law
Deacon Stephen asks the most important questions, namely, does God’s law, the law of Moses, and the law of the Church matter at all to me? Would I be willing to die, to watch my children die for love of the law? Do I even care about the Law at all? We should. Ignorance of God’s Law is no excuse. There will be a judgment. Which side will we be on? Those who stood for life? For love? For God and God’s laws? Or among those who have no time for God, for our country’s laws, for the unborn, or the poor.
13:14
November 06, 2022

10.23.22 Sun. Homily: Compete Well
Deacon Stephen invites us to look at the end of our life. What difference will you and I have made? Do we ever think about that; what difference our life will have made?
11:37
October 23, 2022

10.16.22 Sun. Homily: What We Need
Deacon Stephen teaches us that God wants us to go to him in prayer. He wants us to be persistent and constant. He wants us to raise our hands to him, and to gather friends around us in prayer on behalf of the world and ourselves, but more than anything, God wants us to be with him forever in heaven–that’s the goal.
11:50
October 16, 2022

10.5.22 CCD Homily: Please and Thank You!
Deacon Stephen tells the youth that the most basic thing in the world is to say please and thank you. To God, that is prayers of petition and thanksgiving...that's Eucharist.
08:39
October 05, 2022

10.2.22 Sun. Homily: Right Relationship
Deacon Stephen explains that faith is the relationship we have with the invisible God--because of our faith we trust and believe in the promises of God in Scripture and through the community of faith. And like any relationship, faith can grow if we nurture it with prayer, reflection, and adoration.
14:32
October 02, 2022

9.28.22 CCD Homily: Do Good, Always
Deacon Stephen explains that our goal is simply to do good! Not because we want a reward, or to avoid punishment, but because it's good to be good. We just servants doing God's will for our lives--humble servants doing God's will.
08:53
September 28, 2022

9.25.22 Sun. Homily: A Great Separation
Deacon Stephen explains that the great separation between Lazarus and the rich man began long before the situation of the parable. The separation began every time the rich man separated himself from those who suffered around him. He created the separation that lasted for eternity...and so do we.
14:29
September 25, 2022

9.21.22 CCD Homily: God Still Calls
Deacon Stephen speaks to the youth of our parish, reminding them that God has not revoked the call to discipleship. He continues to call us to witness to our faith through the gifts we've been given.
09:60
September 21, 2022

9.11.22 Sun. Homily: Would You?
Deacon Stephen asks whether we would be courageous enough, irresponsible enough, or loving enough to go after the one that got away...Jesus does.
18:37
September 11, 2022

9.7.22 CCD Homily: How to Live, How to Love.
Deacon Stephen explains that the Gospels today teach us both how we are called to live, and how we are called to love.
10:16
September 08, 2022

9.4.22 Sun. Homily: Go Play
Too often we try to control what is not ours to control. We are angry or frustrated, scared, or anxious. The book of Wisdom has much to say to us, doesn’t it? There is only one way to have peace in this life–and that, quite simply, is to let go of the wheel and allow God to be the Lord of our Life. It was easy to understand when we were a child–mom and dad got the last word, but as adults we too often forget the important lesson we had learned time and time again as a child; we’re not in charge.
15:30
September 05, 2022

8.28.22 Sun. Homily: Humility
Deacon Stephen talks about the danger of greed. Greed creates a desire in me to have more than what is mine, or what is due to me. Greed causes me to want what is rightfully anothers', and even to plot how I might have it. It was king David’s sin when he first took Uriah’s wife, Bathsheba, and then had Uriah killed in battle. Greed makes me want what is not mine to take, and do what should not be done.
12:47
August 29, 2022

8.21.22 Sun. Homily: Discipline
While in college, I wrote an unpopular essay titled, “Spare the rod, spoil the child.” That saying comes from the Book of Proverbs 13:25, “Whoever spares the rod hates the child, but whoever loves will apply discipline.” Parents and children would do well to read the Book of Proverbs daily–there are some real gems in there. Gems that our parents and grandparents were well-acquainted with, but, sadly, have been lost on our generation–the effects of which are nowadays quite visible.
13:09
August 22, 2022

8.14.22 Sun. Homily: Take Your Stand
I am a Christian today because I like Jesus. I like how he loved people and had a tender heart toward them. I like how he healed people whether he knew them or not. I like how he fed people who were hungry, and I like how he spoke courageously to anyone–religious leader or Roman leader. He didn’t care if you were rich or poor, gentile or Jew, slave or king. He said what was true because, well, it was true. The earthly Jesus was just a good man, a courageous man, he was not afraid of anything or anyone– and I think that’s a pretty good way to live our life, don’t you? I try to live like Jesus. I’m not there yet, but I do try.
13:29
August 15, 2022

8.7.22 Sun. Homily: Be Prepared!
The Gospel we heard today is not meant to instill fear in us, but it should cause us to reflect a bit about the quality of our work in the Lord’s absence. Our Lord Jesus, the Son of man, is a good and generous master too. He has put us in charge of his children, his Church, the earth, and all that is in it.
09:58
August 08, 2022

7.31.22 Sun. Homily: Possessed Much?
Jesus tells the crowd, “Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions.” I think there are many good people who fall into the trap of letting their possessions, possess them. Amazon Prime, Door Dash, and other immediate delivery services have made it very easy for us to spend our money.
12:19
August 01, 2022

7.24.22 Sun. Homily: A Sinful City
Deacon Stephen explains that the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is not a window through which we judge others, but a mirror in which we reflect on to what degree we are living right, living God's commandments, and striving mightily to remain in the center of his will.
12:00
July 24, 2022

7.3.22 Sun. Homily: Godly Labor
Jesus’ disciples return with great joy, celebrating the power with which they were able to carry out the Lord’s work. The harvest was abundant–there was a lot of work to do–but the laborers were few–it seems there is always a labor shortage both in the Church, and in the world.
11:41
July 04, 2022

6.26.22 Sun. Homily: For Life
Deacon Stephen explains that disciples of Jesus Christ are unabashedly pro life. In all ways, in all forms, at all times. Our God is the Lord of Life, and we are called to be life-giving.
10:59
June 26, 2022

6.19.22 Sun. Homily: Quote Me!
Deacon Stephen gives a number of quotes from the lives and teachings of the early church about the truth of the Real Presence of Jesus Christ under the appearance of ordinary bread and wine.
11:28
June 19, 2022

4.30.22 All Saints Retreat: Married Love Talk 5: Faith, Hope, Love Remain
Deacon closes up the retreat with the Theological virtues of faith, hope, and love, and applies them to our married life.
50:36
June 11, 2022

4.30.22 All Saints Retreat. Married Love Talk 4: Love is Not
On talk 4 of this marriage retreat, Deacon talks about what love is not, and those attributes within our selves that cause violence to the love we had at first.
36:52
June 10, 2022

4.30.22 All Saints Retreat. Married Love Talk 3: Love is...
Deacon Stephen teaches that if a marriage is to be fruitful it must be patient, and kind. It must believe all things, hope all things, endure all things, and never fail.
36:33
June 10, 2022

4.30.22 All Saints Retreat. Married Love Talk 2: If Only…1,2,3
Deacon Stephen explains that it is not good enough to good at public speaking, making money, or being talented in any variety of things in the world and even in the church. If we do not have love we are nothing.
34:46
June 08, 2022

4.29.22 All Saints Retreat. Married Love. Talk 1 A Helper For Life
Deacon Stephen offers a retreat on married love to over a hundred people at All Saints University Parish, in Turlock. This first talk is about the call to love above all else.
54:31
June 08, 2022

5.29.22 Sun. Homily: Even Better
Deacon Stephen gives a homily about recognizing that in order to grasp something better, we will have to let go of something less.
08:20
May 29, 2022

5.1.22 Sun. Homily: Choose Wisely
Deacon Stephen reminds us to choose wisely! What we do matters and has eternal consequences.
13:54
May 01, 2022

4.27.22 CCD Homily. It's No Ghost!
Deacon Stephen explains that the gospel writers went to great length to teach the truth of the Resurrection. Jesus was no ghost--he is truly risen!
10:22
April 27, 2022

4.24.22 Sun. Homily: Be Divine
Deacon Stephen exhorts the followers of Jesus Christ to be what we have become through Jesus Christ--divine! Restored in baptism and ever-renewed in Reconciliation, we ought to image the love and mercy of God to others on this earth. In that way we become Christ to the world, the goal of the Christian life, namely, to be like God.
14:08
April 24, 2022

4.16.22 Saturday Vigil of the Resurrection of the Lord
Deacon Stephen explains that in the Resurrection our God restores all of humanity, the earth, and all that is in it. Jesus makes things good again.
13:05
April 16, 2022

4.13.22 CCD Homily: Small Things, Big Picture
Deacon Stephen reminds us that if we want our kids to talk to us about the really big things, we must talk to them about the small things, because to them, they are all really big things!
09:24
April 13, 2022

4.10.22 Sun. Homily: Humility
Deacon Stephen offers a reflection on the virtue of humility in the Christian life.
17:32
April 10, 2022

4.3.22 Sun. Homily: Believe In Him
Deacon Stephen gives his homily on the 5th S. of Lent.
12:01
April 03, 2022

3.30.22 CCD Homily: Punishment for Change
Deacon Stephen gives a homily at the youth CCD Mass.
09:36
March 30, 2022

3.23.22 CCD Homily: A Forever Love
Deacon Stephen speaks of the absolute and forever love that a father has for his children.
16:02
March 23, 2022

3.22.22 Tuesday Daily Mass: Our Debt
Deacon Stephen reminds us that we who have been forgiven a great debt should likewise be willing to forgive others their debt toward us.
09:60
March 22, 2022

3.20.22 Sun. Homily: And Justice
We often lean on the love and mercy of God, but Deacon Stephen explains that we must also remember that God is just and there will be an accounting for all that we do or fail to do.
14:52
March 20, 2022

3.13.22 Sun. Homily: Listen
Deacon Stephen speaks the the community about the importance of listening to God's beloved son, Jesus.
12:08
March 14, 2022

3.9.22 CCD Homily: Experience God and Listen
Deacon speaks to the youth about taking time to experience God, and then hearing the voice of God speak to them.
09:01
March 10, 2022

3.8.22 Tue. Homily: Forgiveness
Deacon does a communion service on Tuesday and speaks to the community about forgiving others.
08:12
March 09, 2022

2.27.22 Sun. Homily: A Listening Church
Deacon Stephen talks about good leadership; leadership that listens.
14:09
February 28, 2022

2.23.22 CCD Homily: This is a Christian
Deacon Stephen speaks to the youth about what it means to be a good Christian, and to bear good fruit.
08:09
February 24, 2022

2.13.22 Sun. Homily: Cenotes and Ceiba Trees
Deacon Stephen explains Jeremiah's vision of a tree that produces fruit because its roots run deep--like the ceiba trees found in the cenotes of Mexico.
11:16
February 13, 2022

2.6.22 Sun. Homily: Deeper Water
Jesus challenges us to trust him in spite of our current understanding of things.
09:57
February 06, 2022

2.2.22 CCD Homily: Fulfill Your Duty
Deacon Stephen Speaks to youth and RCIA about our obligation to respond to the Lord's call.
09:11
February 02, 2022

1.26.22 CCD Homily: God Loves Everyone
Deacon Stephen speaks to the youth and RCIA about God's love for them, but not only them!
06:45
January 26, 2022

1.19.22 CCD Homily: We Are Free
Deacon Stephen speaks to the youth and RCIA about the proper use of our freedom.
09:46
January 19, 2022

1.16.22 Sun. Homily: The Ordinary Times
As we enter into Ordinary Time, Deacon Stephen explains that we NEED ordinary time, as it allows us to regroup, refocus, and relax with the Lord.
11:30
January 16, 2022

1.5.22 CCD Homily: Jesus' Baptism
Deacon Stephen explains Jesus' baptism, and the significance of our own Baptism.
06:57
January 05, 2022

1.2.22 The Epiphany of the Lord: Bad Leaders Beware!
Deacon Stephen says that Herod and other immoral, unjust, and unworthy leaders are right to be concerned about Jesus and his disciples. Catholics and non-catholic Christians are inspired by God to do his will first and foremost. The Church as seen the rise and fall of empires, kingdoms, and various forms of government. We obey God's laws and our well-formed conscience first. Period. Bad leaders should beware.
10:13
January 02, 2022

1.1.22 The Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary 2022
Deacon Stephen that the story of Jesus' birth can be trusted. The Word of God is never forgotten for those whose heart it penetrates.
10:42
January 01, 2022

12.26.21 The Feast of the Holy Family: Our Model
Deacon Stephen sees the Holy family as our model of holiness, that can be followed in three steps, according to the Gospel today.
10:47
December 26, 2021

12.24.21 The Nativity of the Lord: Among the Saints
Deacon Stephen gives his Christmas homily, calling the disciples of Jesus to want more than anything the gift of eternal life with God.
15:13
December 24, 2021

12.19.21 Sun. Homily: The Visitation
Deacon Stephen teaches that we were made for the visitation, to love each other, and be near each other. That certainly explains the difficulty so many of us have had during COVID shutdown!
09:49
December 20, 2021

12.15.21 CCD Homily: Faith Formation
Deacon Stephen's homily is for the faith formation students, and focuses on the upcoming Sunday readings.
06:07
December 16, 2021

12.12.21 Sun. Homily: Rejoice Always!
On this 3rd Sunday of Advent, we rejoice! The Lord is near, and God's desire is that we be filled with joy, now and always!
15:08
December 13, 2021

12.8.21 Wed. Homily: Faith Formation Homily
Deacon Stephen gives the Wednesday catechism class a homily for the upcoming Sunday readings.
09:15
December 09, 2021

11.28.21 Sun. Homily: A Warning & A Prayer
Deacon Stephen says that as we begin Advent, we look forward to the return of the Lord. Today's Gospel offers us both a warning and a prayer.
12:39
November 29, 2021

11.10.21 Wed. Homily: The Fig Tree
Deacon Stephen unpacks the lesson of the fig tree for the RCIA and youth on Wednesday.
06:49
November 10, 2021

11.3.21 Wed. Homily: Your 2-Cents
Deacon Stephen encourages youths to give whatever they have to God.
06:14
November 04, 2021

10.27.21 Wed. Homily: Love
Deacon Stephen speaks to the youth about the importance of love.
11:54
October 28, 2021

10.24.21 30th Sun. Homily: 5-Steps
Deacon Stephen explains that Bartimaeus received his site in five steps. We too can be cured of our blindness by following these five steps as well.
14:15
October 24, 2021

10.13.21 Wed. Homily: Be First
Deacon Stephen tells the youth that if they want to be greatest in the kingdom of God, they need to be first. First to love, first to forgive, and first to serve.
08:10
October 14, 2021

10.6.21 Wed. Homily: Do What's Good
Deacon Stephen explains that our Lord teaches us to pray.
11:11
October 07, 2021

9.29.21 Wed. Homily: Feast of the Archangels
Deacon Stephen on Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, archangels.
10:35
September 30, 2021

9.26.21 Sun. Homily: Speak Up!
Deacon Stephen said that we must be willing to Speak Up! Like the prophets of old, we too have the Spirit of God and are called to prophesy! Would that all would be so courageous to speak God's truth to a world filled with sin and violence.
11:45
September 27, 2021

9.22.21 Wed. Homily: On A Journey
Deacon Stephen reminds us that this is not our home, and like the disciples, (and the Marines) we are called to "pack light and freeze at night." We cannot become anchored to this earth lest it become an impediment to heavenly glory!
06:40
September 23, 2021

9.19.21 Sun. Homily: Self - LESS
Deacon Stephen explains that the Christian life is marked by the struggle to think more about others and less about ourselves; it can be quite counter cultural, but it is the life of loving service that compels us.
16:60
September 19, 2021

9.15.21 Wed. Homily: United In Her Sorrow
Deacon Stephen reflects on the Memorial of our Lady of Sorrows. Mary embraced her many pains and suffering in her love for Jesus. We too are invited to offer up our sufferings to the Lord.
10:46
September 15, 2021

9.12.21 Sun. Homily: Never Forget
Deacon Stephen reminds us that we should never forget the sacrifice and love of men and women offering their lives for others on Sept. 11, but also that we must never forget who we are and that we are called to love.
14:46
September 12, 2021

9.8.19 Wed. Homily: The Perfect Age
Deacon Stephen explains that the genealogy of Jesus Christ isn't about bloodlines, but rather about the plan of salvation unfolding from Abraham to Jesus who inaugurates the perfect age...the Kingdom of God.
12:28
September 08, 2021

9.5.21 Sun. Homily: Make No Distiction
Deacon explains that during difficult times we need to work hard to make no distinction between one person and another. Our call is to love all of God's creatures and all of creation. By this work and this love, our faith is revealed.
15:24
September 06, 2021

8.29.21 Sun. Homily: With You!
Deacon Stephen speaks on the importance of being there to support our church, it's leaders, and our country--and not just pay lip service!
15:16
August 29, 2021

8.25.21 Wed. Homily: What's Inside
Deacon Stephen explains that the world is hyper-concerned with what's on the outside, but our Lord teaches that it's what's on the inside that matters most!
06:44
August 26, 2021

8.22.21 Sun. Homily: To Whom Shall We Go?
Deacon Stephen explains that we are not called to understanding, but rather to fidelity to the Lord--to stand by his side, to walk with him as far as the journey takes us. It is he, after all, who has the words of eternal life.
14:06
August 22, 2021

8.18.21 Wed. Homily: Just and Generous
Deacon Stephen explains that the disciple of Jesus is called to be like his Master, who treats us both with justice and generosity.
13:21
August 18, 2021

8.15.21 The Assumption 2021: Say Yes!
Deacon Stephen explains that Mary's "yes" to God was not without difficulty or struggle, yet she still exclaimed the greatness of the Lord--even with suffering and pain. We too are called to give our yes and follow her example.
13:26
August 15, 2021

8.4.21 Wed. Homily: St. John Vianney
Deacon Stephen Valgos gives a brief homily that recognizes this amazing priest, who worked tirelessly in response to Jesus' command to heal.
07:23
August 05, 2021

8.1.21 Sun. Homily: Food that Endures
Deacon Stephen teaches that each of us must choose wisely between the things of this world and things of eternal value.
10:17
August 02, 2021

7.12.21 ARMEE: Spare No Expense
Deacon Stephen explains the parable of the Buried Treasure and the Pearl of Great Price. We must be willing to give up everything else of value to experience the treasure of the kingdom of God.
41:14
July 12, 2021

7.4.21 Sun. Homily: Celebrating Freedom
Deacon Stephen Valgos speaks of true freedom, and what we ought to do with it.
11:35
July 04, 2021

5.30.21 Sun. Trinitarian Love
Deacon Stephen explains that understanding the Trinity is less about language as it is about relationship. The disciples encountered God and want us also to encounter and worship.
12:18
May 30, 2021

Encountering God. Talk 4 of 8. “Take and Eat. This Is My Body.” Holy Eucharist (C.C.C. 1322 - 1419)
Offered as a lecture series over a number of months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy this series, please make a financial contribution to this ministry and keep me in prayer.
56:58
April 02, 2021

3.27.21 Confirmation Talk 2 The Gifts and Fruit of the Spirit
Deacon Stephen Valgos
18:22
March 27, 2021

1.23.21 Walk for Life Mass Homily; Known By Name
Deacon Stephen Valgos was invited to attend a Mass dedicated to the Walk For Life at OLA. The homily reflects his view of the dignity and value of life from the very moment of conception, because, “a person’s a person no matter how small.” -Dr. Seuss
09:09
January 23, 2021

12.16.20 Wed. Homily: What Do They See?
Deacon Stephen Valgos explains that just as Jesus' actions defined who he was as the Christ, the awaited Messiah, so do our actions define who we are as his followers.
09:03
December 16, 2020

11.26.20 Thanksgiving Homily: Thanks for the Toes!
Deacon Stephen Valgos talks about giving thanks even for the little things!
14:21
November 27, 2020

10.31.20 All Saints Day Homily: Happy Hallow E'en!
Deacon Stephen Valgos talks about the true meaning of Halloween.
13:11
October 31, 2020

Church Talk: The Role of a Confirmation Sponsor
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, explains why choosing a Confirmation is such a big deal, and they sponsor has a definite role to play in the life of a believer.
50:16
October 02, 2010

Church Talk. Adult Ed. and The Sacrament of Reconciliation
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, gives a talk about the Sacrament of Reconciliation and why most have an underdeveloped sense of sin, and the need for reconciliation with God and neighbor.
01:02:09
September 02, 2010

Church Talk. Evangelization; Sharing God's Love with Others
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, teaches the word evangelization is not exclusive to Protestant Christians, but is instead the work of EVERY Christian!
01:03:09
August 02, 2010

Church Talk: How To Keep Christ In Christmas
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, talks about the season of Christmas, the difference between what our Church offers us, what the world offers us, and how to stay focused on the real reason for the season.
57:26
July 02, 2010

Church Talk. Reconciliation - Remaining In God's Love
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, explains that reconciliation is about remaining in God's love in spite of human weakness and sin. The Lord provided a way for those who move far off to return to his love time and again.
57:47
June 02, 2010

Church Talk. Lent; It's about Transformation...Not Chocolate
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, explains the real purposed of the Season of Lent. Why we get ashes, why 40 days, why prayer, fasting, and alms.
57:12
May 02, 2010

Church Talk. We Believe In Purgatory
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, explains that Purgatory is not only a truth of the faith, but a reasonable explanation for the intersection of grace, and life, and human weakness and sin. Purgatory just makes sense.
01:04:32
April 02, 2010

Church Talk: The Role of Parents In the Church
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, teaches from the Catechism about the role of parents and of children in the Church.
22:50
March 02, 2010

Church Talk. Jesus, Are You In There? The Real Presence
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, explains why Catholics profess the real presence of Jesus Christ under the appearance of ordinary bread and wine.
01:08:60
February 02, 2010

Church Talk. Where We Got the Bible
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, gives an important talk about where the Bible came from, its writing, formation, and canonization. This talk is a must for anyone who loves the Bible!
01:09:23
January 02, 2010

The Catholic Mass. Talk 8 of 8: The Liturgy of the Eucharist and Concluding Rites
This series was offered over the course of several months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy these talks, please consider offering a one-time or monthly donation to support this ministry. God bless.
01:04:57
August 02, 2009

The Catholic Mass. Talk 7 of 8: Introduction to the New Testament Epistles
This series was offered over the course of several months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy these talks, please consider offering a one-time or monthly donation to support this ministry. God bless.
01:03:32
July 02, 2009

The Catholic Mass. Talk 6 of 8: Introduction to the New Testament Gospels
This series was offered over the course of several months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy these talks, please consider offering a one-time or monthly donation to support this ministry. God bless.
57:59
June 02, 2009

The Catholic Mass. Talk 5 of 8: Introduction to the Old Testament
This series was offered over the course of several months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy these talks, please consider offering a one-time or monthly donation to support this ministry. God bless.
01:02:43
May 02, 2009

The Catholic Mass. Talk 4 of 8: The Liturgy of the Word Explained
This series was offered over the course of several months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy these talks, please consider offering a one-time or monthly donation to support this ministry. God bless.
01:02:50
April 02, 2009

The Catholic Mass. Talk 3 of 8: The Introductory Rites Explained
This series was offered over the course of several months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy these talks, please consider offering a one-time or monthly donation to support this ministry. God bless.
56:56
March 02, 2009

The Catholic Mass. Talk 2 of 8. The Who, What, Where & When of Catholic Worship.
This series was offered over the course of several months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy these talks, please consider offering a one-time or monthly donation to support this ministry. God bless.
59:04
February 02, 2009

The Catholic Mass. Talk 1 of 8: The Mass; Work of the Trinity
The Mass is the most sacred act of worship in which a person can participate on this side of heaven. At the Last Supper, Jesus sat down with His disciples, gave thanks and broke bread. At this supper Jesus did something new, and what He began continues today and until the end of time. The Mass “is an action of Christ” and a “sacred action that surpasses all others; no other action of the Church can equal its efficacy by the same title and to the same degree” (SC 7).
We experience the Mass as a sacrament, a sacrifice, the new Passover, the representation of the Paschal Mystery, the communion of God with man, the revelation of heavenly worship, and the source and summit of the Church’s life and unity. The Mass has an essential unity; and, though external forms have changed from age to age, the “Mass of all ages” remains the same. Join me and others as we learn more about the parts of the mass, the symbols used and the beauty of this great celebration.
Also included in this series are introductions to the Old Testament, the four Gospels, and the New Testament epistles written by St. Paul and others. After listening, you will never experience the Mass in the same way again. You owe it to yourself, your faith and your family to own this CD series!
If you enjoy these talks. Please consider offering a one-time or monthly donation to support this ministry. God bless.
01:04:35
January 02, 2009

The Moral Life. Talk 8 of 8. The Role of the Church (C.C.C. #2030 - 2046)
The series follows the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and was offered as a lecture series over a number of months. If you enjoyed this talk and feel called to support this ministry financially, please do so. Consider being a monthly supporter! God Bless.
01:01:41
August 02, 2008

The Moral Life. Talk 7 of 8: The Law and Freedom (C.C.C. #1949 - 2016)
The series follows the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and was offered as a lecture series over a number of months. If you enjoyed this talk and feel called to support this ministry financially, please do so. Consider being a monthly supporter! God Bless.
01:09:16
July 02, 2008

The Moral Life. Talk 6 of 8. The Human Community (C.C.C. #1877 - 1942)
The series follows the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and was offered as a lecture series over a number of months. If you enjoyed this talk and feel called to support this ministry financially, please do so. Consider being a monthly supporter! God Bless.
01:00:13
June 02, 2008

The Moral Life. Talk 5 of 8. Naming Sin (C.C.C. #1846 - 1869)
The series follows the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and was offered as a lecture series over a number of months. If you enjoyed this talk and feel called to support this ministry financially, please do so. Consider being a monthly supporter! God Bless.
01:09:25
May 02, 2008

The Moral Life. Talk 4 of 8: The Life of Virtue (C.C.C. #1803 - 1845)
The series follows the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and was offered as a lecture series over a number of months. If you enjoyed this talk and feel called to support this ministry financially, please do so. Consider being a monthly supporter! God Bless.
01:07:46
April 02, 2008

The Moral Life. Talk 3 of 8. The Moral Conscience (C.C.C. #1776 - 1802)
The series follows the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and was offered as a lecture series over a number of months. If you enjoyed this talk and feel called to support this ministry financially, please do so. Consider being a monthly supporter! God Bless.
01:06:40
March 02, 2008

The Moral Life. Talk 2 of 8. The Morality of Human Acts (C.C.C. #1749 - 1761)
The series follows the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and was offered as a lecture series over a number of months. If you enjoyed this talk and feel called to support this ministry financially, please do so. Consider being a monthly supporter! God Bless.
56:56
February 02, 2008

The Moral Life. Talk 1 of 8. In God's Image (C.C.C. #1699 - 1748)
The moral life is not obedience to an external set of rules imposed from without, but is instead a lived response to the call of God from deep within the human heart. God calls us to do the good in accord with our understanding of it. It is an affirmation of our dignity and freedom as children of God to choose the path of life and love that have their end in sharing in God's own life and happiness, and to shun acts of violence that lead to brokenness, division, pain, suffering, and, ultimately, eternal separation from God. In other words, to live morally, we must choose life in all its various manifestations. Of course, God does not abandon us as we choose--the opposite is true, in fact. God creates us good from the beginning, gives us the natural law written on our heart, the revealed law in the Commandments and in the person of Jesus Christ, our Lord. God gives us His very Spirit to guide and encourage us, the Sacraments to nourish and heal us, and the Church whose moral teachings are a sure source of wisdom and guidance in the formation of our conscience, that inner sanctuary where we are alone with God and hear His voice echo in our depths if we would but listen.
This series on the moral life provides a background for properly understanding virtue, sin, grace, the commandments, and the Church, as Mother and Teacher in the moral life. The series follows the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and was offered as a lecture series over a number of months. If you enjoyed this talk and feel called to support this ministry financially, please do so. Consider being a monthly supporter! God Bless.
01:03:23
January 02, 2008

Encountering God. Talk 8 of 8. Almost Home With the Lord! Holy Anointing of the Sick (C.C.C. 1499 - 1532)
Offered as a lecture series over a number of months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy this series, please make a financial contribution to this ministry and keep me in prayer.
01:02:45
August 02, 2007

Encountering God. Talk 7 of 8. Serving the Faithful; Holy Orders (C.C.C. 1536 - 1600)
Offered as a lecture series over a number of months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy this series, please make a financial contribution to this ministry and keep me in prayer.
01:06:59
July 02, 2007

Encountering God. Talk 6 of 8. “I Do...Forever!” Holy Matrimony (C.C.C. 1601 - 1665)
Offered as a lecture series over a number of months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy this series, please make a financial contribution to this ministry and keep me in prayer.
01:03:23
June 02, 2007

Encountering God. Talk 5 of 8. Father, Forgive Me, A Sinner! Holy Reconciliation (C.C.C. 1420 - 1498)
Stephen Valgos
56:05
May 02, 2007

Encountering God. Talk 4 of 8. “Take and Eat. This Is My Body.” Holy Eucharist (C.C.C. 1322 - 1419)
Offered as a lecture series over a number of months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy this series, please make a financial contribution to this ministry and keep me in prayer.
56:58
April 02, 2007

Encountering God: Talk 3 of 8. Sealing the Deal; Our Yes!" to God. Holy Conƒirmation (C.C.C. 1285 - 1321)
Offered as a lecture series over a number of months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy this series, please make a financial contribution to this ministry and keep me in prayer.
01:00:06
March 02, 2007

Encountering God: Talk 2 of 8. Saved Through the Waters! Holy Baptism (C.C.C. 1210 - 1284)
Offered as a lecture series over a number of months by Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist. If you enjoy this series, please make a financial contribution to this ministry and keep me in prayer.
01:00:28
February 02, 2007

Encountering God. Talk 1 of 8: What Exactly Is A Sacrament? An Overview (C.C.C. 1077 - 1209)
In the Sacraments of the Church, Christ offers each one of us the same opportunity that His own disciples enjoyed almost 2,000 years ago: a meaningful, personal, and potentially transformative encounter with Him! God, in Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit comes to us in the Sacraments, and we are never the same! To the degree that we are open to God’s grace we are transformed and made new!
In this 8-hour lecture series, Stephen Valgos, walks us through the Sacraments as taught in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, explaining with personal illustrations the fullness of the Church's teaching found therein. I am entirely confident that however much you know about the Sacraments, you will walk away with something new from each lecture in the series.
In these talks you are invited to rediscover the fullness of God’s wonderful gift to us in the Sacraments of the Church. We cannot hope to fully appreciate this gift from God if we do not know its history, symbolism, meaning, and importance. In these talks you will come to know more fully about what you have already received and continue to enjoy as you journey toward the fullness of union with God in Heaven. As St. Augustine said, "The purpose of the Sacraments is to help us toward our final end."
If you enjoy this series, please make a financial contribution to this ministry and keep me in prayer.
01:01:09
January 02, 2007

We Believe. Part 9 of 9: I Believe In the Forgiveness of Sins, The Resurrection of the Body & Life Everlasting (C.C.C. #976 - 1065)
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, continues his teaching on the Profession of Faith.
01:14:57
September 01, 2006

We Believe. Part 8 of 9: I Believe In One, Holy, Catholic & Apostolic Church (C.C.C. #748 - 975)
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, continues his teaching on the Profession of Faith.
01:07:46
August 01, 2006

We Believe. Part 7 of 9: I Believe In the Holy Spirit (C.C.C. #683 - 747)
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, continues his teaching on the Profession of Faith.
01:09:10
July 01, 2006

We Believe. Part 6 of 9. Jesus Descended Into Hell, Rose Again, Ascended Into Heaven & Will Return To Judge (C.C.C. #631 - 682)
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, continues his teaching on the Profession of Faith.
01:12:35
June 01, 2006

We Believe. Part 5 of 9. Jesus Suffered, Died & Was Buried (C.C.C. #571 - 630)
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, continues his teaching on the Profession of Faith.
01:05:49
May 01, 2006

We Believe. Part 4 of 9. Jesus Was Conceived by the Power of the Holy Spirit & Born of the Virgin Mary (C.C.C. #456 - 570)
Stephen Valgos continues his teaching on the Profession of Faith.
01:13:32
April 01, 2006

We Believe. Part 3 of 9. I Believe In Jesus Christ the Lord & Son of God (C.C.C. #422 - 455)
Stephen Valgos, Catholic Evangelist, continues his explanation of the Profession of Faith.
01:00:50
March 01, 2006

We Believe. Part 2 of 9: I Believe In God the Father & Almighty Creator (C.C.C. #198 - 421)
Stephen Valgos continues this series on the profession of faith.
01:13:40
February 01, 2006

We Believe. Part 1 of 9. You Can Know God! (C.C.C. #26 - 197)
The Christian Profession of Faith, or the Creed, is the fruit of both the Councils of Nicaea (325A.D.) and Constantinople (381A.D.). It has since been a standard of orthodoxy and a foundation for ecumenism throughout Christianity. The faith that we profess binds us with believers around the world and throughout all time. We proclaim it during the Sunday liturgy in response to the Word of God read and the exhortative homily offered.
For too many, however, the memorized prayer has become only words that are said at the “appropriate time” and not an explicit expression of our heart’s knowledge of and desire for God. This lecture series is the remedy for complacency. Stephen Valgos offers this presentation of the faith in a 9-part lecture series. Using the Catechism of the Catholic Church, he brings to life the faith we profess in an exciting and meaningful way. His passion and zeal will surely inspire, and transform you. Thank you for your donation for this lecture series. I’m sure you will enjoy it.
01:06:53
January 02, 2006