PODCAST | Take Up Your Cross
In this meditation, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on self-denial as a path to deeper faith and freedom in Christ. As we begin Lent, we are reminded that to follow Our Lord, we must deny ourselves and take up our cross daily. Self-denial strengthens our commitment to prayer, holiness, and living the Gospel with conviction.
Fr. Peter reminds us that St. Josemaria Escriva said, “If you don’t deny yourself, you will never be a soul of prayer” (The Way, no. 6). In a world filled with temptation, we must cultivate self-control and embrace sacrifice. And, as St. Josemaria urges, “Do it now! Now is the only shot you have. The past is gone, and the future doesn’t exist.”
To accompany our Lenten meditation of the week, explore “Lent 2025: Called By Name”: a collection of readings and devotions from the St. Josemaria Institute to inspire your conversion and renewal this holy season contemplating how Our Lord continues to call each of us by our name.
Rev. Peter Armenio
Rev. Peter V. Armenio was ordained a priest of the Prelature of Opus Dei in 1980. He is the author of several books published by Midwest Theological Forum, including Highlights of the Catholic Faith. He also served as President of the St. Josemaria Institute from 2006 to 2012. He has been working in campus ministry for the past 30 years and also preaches recollections and gives spiritual direction in Chicago.
