In this episode, meet St. Ann, the grandmother of Jesus. Hear about the history of art depicting this great saint, prayers and devotions to invoke her intercession, and popular pilgrimage sites that honor her. We even tell the story of a mini miracle that happened here at St. Ann's: Parish patroness, pray for us!

Speakers (in order of appearance):

We hear first of St. Ann in the non-biblical gospel of James. Childless after 20 years of marriage, Anna (as named in the book of James) and St. Joachim begged God for a child. An angel appeared separately to the two parents saying they would conceive a child to be called Mary, who was to be dedicated to God. Mary's parents were obedient and we have so much to learn from them and their daughter.

Msgr. James Watkins tells a story of his childhood: Forty years ago, he asked a girl to his senior prom. He needed money in order to go. Watkins had to be persistent with his father in asking for help, much like we should do with our Father in heaven. This would be his only prom.

"And I tell you, ask and you will receive;

Learn more about the life of the patroness of our church, St. Ann, and her husband St. Joachim, in this homily Msgr. James Watkins gave on her Feast!

On the occasion of his 30th priesthood anniversary, Msgr. James Watkins, pastor of St. Ann Catholic Church in Washington, DC, counts his many blessings during his #30yearsapriest. Watkins also reflects on the priesthood, the Eucharist and the mystery of our salvation.