The Thomistic Institute
Lent is for Lovers | Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P.
Feb 14, 2025
Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P., a Dominican priest and expert in patristic studies, shares profound insights on love during Lent. He connects the themes of St. Valentine's Day and Ash Wednesday, emphasizing how God's love calls us to authentic relationships. The discussion includes the necessity of cultivating a spiritual hunger for the Eucharist, likening it to a buffet of spiritual nourishment. Fr. Hofer also highlights the significance of the Eucharistic fast in deepening our connection with the divine, preparing hearts for Holy Communion.
40:08
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- True love, as defined by St. John, transcends human affection and is rooted in God's unconditional love and sacrifice for humanity.
- Lent serves as a transformative period for believers to deepen their love for God and others through self-awareness, almsgiving, prayer, and fasting.
Deep dives
The Divine Nature of Love
Love is portrayed as a divine force characterized by unconditionality and selflessness. According to St. John, true love is defined not by human affection but by recognizing that God loved humanity first, which culminated in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. This shows that God’s love sets a standard for human relationships, emphasizing the need for believers to embody this love, especially during Lent, which is a time for reflection and transformation. The narrative encourages individuals to experience God's overwhelming love and to respond by loving others genuinely and sacrificially.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
