Why does God allow temptation—and how can it actually purify the soul? In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke explore spiritual combat, temptation, and the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary.

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Why does God allow temptation, and how can resisting it actually make us holier? In this episode of Franciscan Fridays, Brother Pius and Father Luke reflect on the Temptation of Christ in the Desert, a powerful moment that follows Jesus’ Baptism and deepens our understanding of the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary.

Recorded at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima (Blue Army Shrine) in New Jersey, this conversation draws from Sacred Scripture, the Desert Fathers, St. Ignatius of Loyola, St. Padre Pio, and St. Augustine to explore spiritual combat, virtue, grace, and God’s long game in our salvation.

Topics include:
• Why temptation is not sin
• How resisting temptation strengthens virtue
• Padre Pio’s famous “soap” analogy
• God’s grace at work in spiritual battles
• Healing temptation through both spiritual and psychological means
• Why falling doesn’t mean failure in the Christian life

Whether you’re struggling with recurring temptations or seeking deeper prayer through the Rosary, this episode offers hope, wisdom, and encouragement.