Canada Health Day, observed on May 12, aligns with the Catholic Church’s commitment to health, compassion, and care for the marginalized. Rooted in Catholic social teaching, which emphasizes the dignity of the human person, the Church supports efforts to ensure access to healthcare for all, especially the poor and vulnerable. The day promotes reflection on […]
Our Lady of Fatima refers to the title given to the Virgin Mary following her apparitions to three shepherd children—Lucia, Francisco, and Jacinta—in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. Over six months, Mary appeared to the children, delivering messages of prayer, repentance, and the need for devotion to her Immaculate Heart. She urged the faithful to pray […]
The 6th Sunday of Easter, falling just before Ascension Thursday, highlights themes of love, the Holy Spirit, and the peace of Christ. The readings often focus on Jesus’ promise to send the Holy Spirit as an Advocate to guide, strengthen, and teach His followers. In the Gospel, Jesus speaks about loving one another and abiding […]
Saint Matthias was the apostle chosen to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal and death. According to the Acts of the Apostles, Matthias was selected by the remaining eleven apostles through prayer and the casting of lots. He had been a follower of Jesus from His baptism by John the Baptist until the Ascension, ensuring […]
Mother’s Day, while not a liturgical feast in the Catholic Church, holds significant spiritual and cultural relevance. The Church honours motherhood as a reflection of God’s love and care, with Mary, the mother of Jesus, being the ultimate example of maternal devotion and faith. On Mother’s Day, Catholics often reflect on the importance of mothers […]
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 […]
