Fr. Fabian and Fr. Bruce Riebe explore the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary and its deep roots in both the Roman and Byzantine Catholic traditions ahead of her August 22 memorial. The hosts unpack Sunday's readings, including St. Paul's meditation on the unsearchable wisdom of God in Romans 11 and Jesus' pivotal question to Peter, "Who do you say that I am?" from Matthew 16. The conversation also turns to a striking modern trend: young men increasingly drawn to Eastern Christian spirituality and what it reveals about the enduring pull of ancient, apostolic faith.
This week on Be Not Afraid, Fr. Fabian and Fr. Bruce Riebe reflect on the upcoming Memorial of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary (August 22), tracing its origins to Pope Pius XII's 1954 encyclical and its beautiful connection to Mary's Assumption. Fr. Bruce offers a Byzantine Catholic perspective, noting how the Eastern Church honors Mary as Queen of Heaven within the Octave of the Dormition of the Theotokos, even without a distinct feast day. The hosts also share a touching reflection on Marian crowning traditions across Hispanic and Holy Family school customs.
Turning to Sunday's readings, the hosts dive into Romans 11:33-36 and St. Paul's meditation on the depth of God's wisdom, drawing a beautiful connection to Mary's total surrender to God's will. In the Gospel from Matthew 16:13-20, Jesus asks the apostles "Who do you say that I am?" — prompting Peter's declaration of faith and the founding of the Church upon him as the Rock. Fr. Bruce also shares a striking pastoral observation from 41 years of priesthood: a growing number of young men in their 20s and 30s are being drawn to Eastern Christian spirituality, and how the Eastern Catholic Church offers them that same ancient liturgical richness while remaining in full communion with Rome.
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