The Vigil of the Ascension of the Lord, observed on the evening before Ascension Thursday, marks the moment when Jesus ascended into heaven, as described in Acts 1:9-11. This vigil prepares the faithful to celebrate Christ’s triumphant return to the Father, completing His earthly mission and commissioning His disciples to spread the Gospel. The liturgy […]
The Ascension of the Lord, celebrated 40 days after Easter, commemorates the moment when Jesus ascended into heaven in the presence of His disciples, as described in Acts 1:9-11. This event marks the conclusion of Jesus’ earthly ministry and His return to the Father, signifying His triumph over sin and death. The Ascension also symbolizes […]
Saint Bernardine of Siena (1380–1444) was an Italian Franciscan friar, preacher, and theologian known for his fervent evangelization and devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus. A prolific preacher, Bernardine traveled extensively across Italy, promoting moral reform and religious devotion, particularly among the laity. He is credited with popularizing the use of the "IHS" monogram, […]
World Communications Day, observed annually on the Sunday before Pentecost, highlights the Catholic Church's role in promoting dialogue, truth, and justice through media. Established by Pope Paul VI in 1967, this day encourages reflection on the importance of communication in spreading the Gospel message. The Church recognizes the power of modern media—television, radio, social media, […]
Saint Eugène de Mazenod (1782–1861) was a French bishop and founder of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, a religious congregation dedicated to evangelization and serving the poor. Born into a noble family, Eugène experienced a turbulent childhood, marked by exile during the French Revolution. He later studied for the priesthood and became deeply committed […]
Saint Christopher Magallanes and his companions were a group of 25 Mexican martyrs who were killed during the Cristero War, a period of violent persecution against the Catholic Church in Mexico in the 1920s. Christopher Magallanes, a priest, and his fellow martyrs were executed for their staunch defense of religious freedom and their refusal to […]
Victoria Day, celebrated on the last Monday before May 25, is a Canadian holiday honouring Queen Victoria’s birthday and the beginning of the country’s summer season. Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837 to 1901, played a pivotal role in the formation of Canada as a nation within the British Empire. The holiday marks not only […]
Blessed Louis-Zéphirin Moreau (1824–1901) was a Canadian priest and the founder of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary in Quebec. Deeply committed to education and the spiritual formation of young women, he worked to establish schools and religious communities in Quebec and beyond. Known for his holiness and dedication to the […]
World Day of Prayer for the Church in China, observed annually on May 24, is a day of solidarity and intercession for the Catholic Church in China. It was established by Pope Benedict XVI in 2007, coinciding with the feast of Our Lady Help of Christians, a title especially revered in China. This day encourages […]
Saint Philip Neri (1515–1595) was an Italian priest and founder of the Congregation of the Oratory, a religious community dedicated to prayer, education, and charitable work. Known for his joyful spirit, humor, and deep spirituality, Philip was a beloved figure in Rome, attracting many followers with his warmth and devotion. He emphasized the importance of […]
