After years of battling addiction, first to marijuana in high school and then to alcohol, I spent decades hiding my struggle behind professional success.

Moments of sobriety, like abstaining for Lent, gave a false sense of control—even as the habits persisted.

Everything changed in 2013 with a return to Confession and dedication to Jesus through Mary, which broke my dependence on marijuana for ten years.

But grief brought relapse after the deaths of my husband and father. Overwhelmed, I again turned to substances for comfort.

During Lent 2024, a profound experience during prayer brought total freedom from both addictions.

The urge disappeared instantly, and I knew God had intervened for a purpose.

Now, through the Soul, Mind, and Body Retreat, my mission is to offer women a place of healing, where no one has to carry their burdens alone.

What was once hidden in shame is now a testimony to God’s mercy and restoration.

Throughout Christian history, poverty has been viewed as a path to spiritual purity.

St. Francis of Assisi symbolized this by embracing “Lady Poverty,” seeking holiness through simplicity.

For those in religious life, poverty is considered the most vital of the sacred vows, highlighting its importance in spiritual discipline.

Yet, the Church does not require all believers to experience material poverty, recognizing its challenges and that not all can bear its weight.

Instead, Christians are encouraged to cultivate spiritual poverty—a detachment from possessions and a reliance on God.

Whether wealthy or modest, the call is to trust God rather than depend on material goods.

Saints like St. Maximilian Kolbe found that simplicity and self-denial strengthened their faith and resolve, even during great trials.

Ultimately, the Christian response to poverty is one of compassion, generosity, and seeing Christ in the poor, fostering spiritual richness and deeper trust in God.

Vladimír Jukl, born in Bratislava in 1925, became a symbol of faith and resistance during Slovakia’s years under communist rule.

Facing severe persecution, including torture and imprisonment, Jukl remained unwavering, convinced his beliefs would sustain him through adversity.

After his release, he joined Silvester Krčméry in building secret prayer communities, transforming ordinary homes across Bratislava into sanctuaries for quiet defiance and spiritual resilience.

Their leadership earned recognition as "Generals of the Secret Church", fostering a generation of Catholics who bravely upheld their faith in secret.

Jukl co-organized the 1988 Candle Manifestation, a pivotal, peaceful protest for religious freedom met with police force, foreshadowing the Velvet Revolution.

Recent films and books, including works by František Mikloško, have celebrated Jukl’s legacy, inspiring today’s advocates for religious freedom and human rights.

His centenary is a time to honor his enduring influence on Slovak society.

New York City’s subways are at the center of a heated debate over the limits of artificial companionship.

Advertisements for the AI-powered pendant, Friend, have sparked outrage and graffiti from commuters who question whether technology can truly replace human bonds.

Retailing at $129, Friend continuously listens and sends supportive responses to an app, but its always-on microphone and unsolicited messaging features have fueled deep privacy and authenticity concerns.

Public backlash has been intense, with altered ads declaring, “AI is not your friend” and urging New Yorkers to seek real connections.

Avi Schiffmann, the 22-year-old creator, sees the response as valuable commentary, but critics warn the device commodifies loneliness and risks further isolating people.

As the conversation grows, many insist that only genuine human relationships can offer the understanding and love everyone deserves.

On October 19, 2025, Pope Leo XIV canonized seven inspiring figures whose stories reflect profound faith and resilience.

José Gregorio Hernández, revered as the “doctor of the poor,” served Venezuela’s most vulnerable, earning lasting admiration for his compassionate medical care.

Mother María del Carmen Rendiles Martínez dedicated her life to religious service through founding the Sister Slaves of Jesus, shaping generations through faith and education in Venezuela.

St. Ignatius Maloyan, Armenian Catholic archbishop, suffered martyrdom during the Armenian genocide, standing firm in his beliefs despite mortal peril.

St. Peter To Rot, a lay catechist from Papua New Guinea, was killed for defending Christian marriage during World War II, modeling unwavering conviction.

St. Vincenza Maria Poloni, founder of the Sisters of Mercy of Verona, risked her life during the 1836 cholera epidemic to help the sick.

St. Maria Troncatti’s decades of service among Ecuador’s Shuar people blended medical care with spiritual support.

St. Bartolo Longo’s transformation from occultism to founder of Pompeii’s Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary symbolizes the reach of redemption.

Their legacies continue to uplift and inspire communities worldwide.

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is inviting Catholics nationwide to join the Respect Life Novena, taking place October 22–30, 2025.

This nine-day prayer initiative seeks to uplift the sanctity of life, from conception to natural death.

Each day features unique prayer intentions, passages from Scripture, and suggested acts of reparation.

Participants can access the novena through the USCCB Respect Life website, receive daily prayers by email or text, or use the free Hallow app, where bishops from across the country will lead each day’s reflection.

Colorado’s Archbishop Samuel Aquila especially urges participation, following new state laws expanding public funding for abortion.

On October 25, Archbishop Aquila will lead a Eucharistic procession around Denver’s Planned Parenthood, underscoring a call for prayerful witness.

Catholics are encouraged to join together in prayer, hope, and advocacy for the dignity of every human life.

Pope Leo XIV braved a rainy morning in St. Peter's Square to offer a heartfelt reflection on the spiritual power of tears, using Jesus’ final moments on the cross as inspiration.

He greeted pilgrims, blessing especially the children, before explaining that tears, far from weakness, express deep desires, surrender, and sincere prayer.

The Holy Father highlighted that in the Gospel, crying is not shameful but holds immense spiritual value—sometimes becoming a person’s deepest prayer when words run out.

Recalling Christ’s last cry from the cross, Pope Leo emphasized that this was not a moment of despair, but of full-hearted trust and ultimate love.

He urged the faithful not to suppress their tears, seeing them as gestures of hope and connection to God.

Afterward, the pope personally greeted newlyweds and people with disabilities, underlining his message of compassion and sincerity.

His words offered a moving reminder of the dignity found in every cry from the heart.

The Hail Mary stands as a central prayer in Catholic tradition, inviting believers into a deeper spiritual reflection.

Rooted in the Gospel of Luke, its first part echoes the Archangel Gabriel and Elizabeth’s words, greeting Mary as blessed and full of grace.

The Church later added the second half, urging Mary’s intercession for sinners, both now and at life’s end.

Symbolically, this prayer casts Mary as the earth who bears the divine—Jesus—mirroring ancient views where earth embodies openness and heaven represents divinity.

This imagery highlights Mary’s unique role in salvation, receiving the heavenly into the human world.

Each recitation, therefore, becomes more than ritual; it is a meditation on faith’s mysteries and a call for ongoing guidance through Mary’s intercession.

Siblings George Capps and Polly Capps Paule have revealed a new painting, The Consecration of Carlo Acutis, depicting a young St. Carlo Acutis in a mystical vision with Our Lady of Fatima.

This artwork moves beyond familiar images of Carlo, presenting him as a child receiving the Blessed Mother’s heart—an inspiration drawn from accounts of his early spiritual experiences.

The piece was commissioned by the Real Presence Education Foundation to visually represent a new parish-based ministry focused on family consecration through Carlo’s intercession.

Based out of St. Louis, the Goretti Fine Art team blends classical techniques with contemporary relevance, offering deeply spiritual, prayer-informed creations.

By honoring tradition yet engaging modern audiences, George and Polly aim to make churches havens of beauty and bring authentic sacred art to today’s faithful.

As Carlo Acutis nears canonization, their painting stands as a moving tribute to his legacy.

The Catholic faith distinguishes between Sacraments and Sacramentals, each with unique roles in nurturing spiritual life.

Sacraments—such as Baptism, Eucharist, and Matrimony—were established by Christ Himself and directly impart God’s grace, marking pivotal moments in a believer’s journey.

In contrast, Sacramentals like holy water, the Sign of the Cross, and blessed objects are instituted by the Church to bless daily life, inviting God’s presence and preparing hearts to receive grace more fully.

While Sacraments are essential for salvation, Sacramentals work through a believer’s faith and the prayers of the Church, inspiring devotion and protection.

Recent local highlights—such as the July 2024 National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis and St. Mary of the Knobs’ celebration of Fr. John Geis’s 60 years of priesthood—demonstrate the living power of these sacred signs in forming strong, faith-filled communities.

Over 620,000 pilgrims have visited the tomb of St. Carlo Acutis in Assisi during the first eight months of 2025.

This surge, peaking with more than 121,000 visitors in August, highlights the profound effect of his recent canonization by Pope Leo XIV and the Jubilee of Youth.

Born in 1991, Acutis was a tech-savvy teen who spread Catholicism online before passing away from leukemia at just 15.

His body rests in Assisi’s Church of St. Mary Major, where pilgrims venerate his relics and see him in his signature jeans and sneakers.

His canonization drew massive crowds locally and to Rome, with special trains carrying hundreds of Umbrian faithful.

Celebrations continue, including a striking new statue by Timothy Schmalz and visits from top Vatican cardinals, affirming Acutis as a beloved, modern model of holiness.

Gathered in prayer, believers are reminded to give thanks for Jesus, whose presence brings hope and guidance at every moment.

Jesus’ invitation is clear and personal: to follow Him wholeheartedly, placing Him above all else—even our closest relationships.

Drawing from Luke’s Gospel, Jesus challenges His followers to embrace the cost of discipleship, urging radical trust and courage to let go of anything that hinders a deeper relationship with God.

The call to carry one’s cross is about sacrifice and transformation—putting faith into action through honesty, forgiveness, and selfless service, inspired and strengthened by the Holy Spirit.

Though demanding, following Jesus brings rewards that endure: unshakeable joy, deep peace, and purpose rooted in God’s love.

Within the Church, believers find support and are challenged to grow, always reminded that the journey leads to lasting life and unity with God.

Amen.

St. Teresa of Avila encouraged trust in God, assuring that His love never abandons us.

Where there is love, there is God, and within families, this love can spark real-life miracles.

Through faith and prayer—especially empowered by marriage—enduring hardships becomes possible and brings unexpected blessings.

Stories of healing, like Mary Anne’s recovery from arthritis after daily prayer, reveal the strength of persistent belief.

Praying as a family, even for specific hopes such as a holy spouse or children’s well-being, has led to miraculous changes and deeper faith.

The rosary remains an anchor, offering peace amid family storms and hope for miracles—evident in remarkable recoveries and renewed lives.

Recent church events in Sioux Falls and Middletown have also shown collective prayer transforming lives, with numerous testimonies of healing and spiritual renewal.

With enduring faith, prayer, and trust in God’s mercy, miracles for families remain possible—even today.

On August 25, 2025, Pope Leo XIV inspired over 350 French altar servers in Rome, stressing the urgent need for priestly vocations and the irreplaceable value of the Eucharist.

He described France’s priest shortage as “a great misfortune” for both Church and nation, urging the young to remain open to Jesus' call. Serving as a priest, he said, is both a challenge and a profound chance to impact lives.

Reflecting on the Jubilee Year, the Pope reminded altar servers to embrace conversion and deepen their friendship with Jesus, the one who truly saves.

Pope Leo called the Eucharist the Church’s greatest treasure and underscored that Mass holds unparalleled importance because it's where God gives Himself to us.

He expressed deep gratitude for altar servers’ dedication and encouraged them to persevere faithfully, making the celebration joyful yet solemn.

Above all, he offered hope, urging the youth to listen to Jesus and consider the beauty and necessity of a priestly vocation.

In Egypt’s Assiut, the Monastery of the Virgin Mary shines as a historic symbol of faith.

The monastery, thought to have sheltered the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt, hosts the annual Feast of the Virgin Mary every August, attracting pilgrims nationwide.

In 2025, more than 500,000 people gathered for this celebrated event, reflecting the pilgrimage’s lasting spiritual power.

With origins in the fourth century under St. John of Egypt, the monastery draws visitors with its daily rituals and welcoming spirit.

A central attraction is the ancient Cave Church, long linked to Joseph the Patriarch and the Holy Family’s refuge.

In 2023, the unveiling of Egypt’s largest Virgin Mary statue added to the site’s majesty, coinciding with the Virgin’s birthday.

Against all odds, thousands—mostly Coptic Christians—travel here yearly, turning faith and history into a vibrant tradition.

More Coffee, nestled in Centennial, Colorado, is transforming what it means to be a local café.

Operated by St. Thomas More Catholic Parish, it serves as an inviting space where faith and community seamlessly intersect.

Patrons are greeted by the scent of fresh coffee, images of the London skyline, and inspiring quotes from Catholic saints, all anchored by a prominent crucifix near the pickup counter.

The vision behind the café comes from Father Randy Dollins, who hopes the space will welcome both Catholics and non-Catholics to explore faith in a relaxed, approachable setting.

Located in the bustling Denver Tech Center, More Coffee attracts business professionals and remote workers alike.

Beyond delicious brews, the café features a chapel for quiet reflection and a free community conference room, deepening local connections and spiritual growth.

With its blend of community, conversation, and Catholic hospitality, More Coffee is quickly becoming a vibrant hub for Centennial residents.

Pope Leo XIV urged Catholic lawmakers gathered in the Clementine Hall at the Apostolic Palace to draw inspiration from St. Augustine’s “City of God” as they tackle today’s complex political challenges.

He emphasized that leaders must ensure power is guided by conscience and laws serve human dignity.

The Pope warned against treating prosperity as mere material wealth, stressing that true flourishing comes from virtuous living within strong communities and recognizing everyone as children of God.

Highlighting themes of religious freedom, family, and solidarity, he encouraged legislators to act as bridges between earthly society and the values of God’s kingdom.

This year’s International Catholic Legislators Network meeting in Rome focused on power, corporations, and the future of human flourishing, offering Catholic leadership on global challenges.

Pope Leo, the first Augustinian pontiff, closed by thanking lawmakers for bringing faith into public life and promising his ongoing prayers.

Some of English literature’s most profound voices have been unjustly silenced by time, especially poets whose work was forged in faith and persecution.

Chief among these unsung heroes is Richard Crashaw, a 17th-century poet of staggering spiritual depth.

The son of a prominent Puritan preacher, Crashaw ultimately embraced Catholicism during the English Civil War, the very faith his father publicly condemned.

This single act of conscience cost him everything.

He was forced into impoverished exile in Paris and later Rome, his life a testament to unwavering conviction.

Inspired by mystics like St. Teresa of Avila, his breathtaking poetry explores a passionate union with the divine.

Like fellow convert John Dryden, Crashaw’s work is a powerful reminder that the greatest art often rises from the deepest beliefs, a lesson that feels more relevant than ever.

The word Psalms has deep roots, originating from the Greek word for “song,” and has come to represent a remarkable collection of sacred writings spanning centuries.

Known in Jewish tradition as the “Praises,” these ancient poems invite worshippers into music and meditation, shaping spirituality across faiths.

The Psalms are divided into five books, mirroring the Torah, guiding communities from seasons of sorrow to renewal.

Many voices, notably King David, Solomon, Asaph, and Moses, weave their poetry together, reflecting the wide breadth of human experience.

Their poetic genius lies in parallelism and vivid imagery, resonating in local congregations who still chant these verses today.

Psalms remain essential to both Jewish and Christian prayer, offering comfort, unity, and hope—whether during quiet reflection at home or lively interfaith gatherings downtown.

From sorrow to praise, these timeless prayers anchor modern lives in shared tradition and enduring faith.

On August 15, 2025, Catholics around the globe will honor the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a feast rooted in faith and hope.

Declared a dogma by Pope Pius XII in 1950, the Assumption celebrates Mary's being taken up body and soul into heaven, symbolizing renewal after World War II.

This belief, though not detailed in Scripture, reflects longstanding Christian traditions and is embraced across Catholic and Orthodox communities.

Mary’s unique role as the Mother of God, her Immaculate Conception, and her sinless life make the Assumption a fitting part of her story.

Locally, parishes like St. Ann Catholic Church in Florence, South Carolina, and events like Marian Days in Missouri gather diverse believers in celebration.

The Assumption inspires hope, offering a vision of eternal life and unity amidst today’s uncertainties.

Our Lord lovingly gives each of us to Mary’s care, His most blessed mother.

In a joyful classroom, five-year-old Sammy’s gentle tug on a rosary showed his trust in Mary.

With bright eyes, he declared his certainty: holding on to Mary means never being lost.

This wisdom arose naturally in him, a quiet sign of Mary’s nurturing presence beyond words or lessons.

Just as Saint Thérèse described a mother’s tender, unseen care, the silent acts of love from mothers shape our souls.

Whatever our earthly family is like, each person shares the mystery of being carried by their mother—evidence of the profound gift of motherhood.

Above all, Mary remains our spiritual mother, guiding us always toward Jesus with unwavering love.

The Marian dogmas—her divine maternity, perpetual virginity, immaculate conception, and glorious assumption—invite us to trust even more deeply in her embrace.

St. Clare of Assisi’s example continues to inspire during challenging times marked by rapid change and uncertainty.

Born in 1194, Clare left behind a life of privilege to embrace radical simplicity and deep faith, founding the Poor Clares.

Her life stands as a reminder that genuine peace comes from spiritual depth rather than material wealth.

On August 11, 2025, the Clarisse Convent in Jerusalem honored her legacy with a solemn Mass celebrated by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch.

Bishops, Franciscan friars, and Clarisse sisters gathered together, reflecting Clare’s lasting influence.

In his homily, Cardinal Pizzaballa encouraged the faithful to embrace their own shortcomings, viewing them as opportunities for God’s strength and mercy.

Through simplicity and faith, St. Clare invites each person to discover lasting peace and resilience, even in turbulent times.

Saint Jane Frances de Chantal, born in 1572 in Burgundy, emerged as a symbol of faith and resilience after losing her husband at a young age.

She managed her household with grace, later finding spiritual direction under Saint Francis de Sales, the Bishop of Geneva.

Together, they founded the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary in 1610, welcoming women often excluded from other religious communities due to age or health.

Saint Jane championed simplicity and humility in spirituality.

She encouraged silent, heartfelt prayer, accessible to everyone.

Her legacy inspires modern contemplative groups, such as the Julian Meetings and New York’s Center for Spiritual Imagination.

By embracing her teachings, individuals today can foster a deeper, more intimate spiritual life through the quiet power of humble prayer.

Bishop Robert Barron is creating a documentary that explores the magnificent beauty and spiritual power of France’s iconic Gothic cathedrals.

Filming journeys through Notre-Dame, Chartres, Reims, Amiens, and Saint-Denis, highlighting their breathtaking architecture and deep historical roots.

The project was inspired by global reactions to the 2019 Notre-Dame fire, which revealed how profoundly these sacred spaces resonate with people of all backgrounds.

Bishop Barron seeks to reveal how these soaring structures connect believers and non-believers alike to something greater.

The film will weave together history, theology, art, and Scripture to explore what makes cathedrals universally moving.

Production is underway, with an expected release in 2026.

Supporters may receive special gifts and early digital access, furthering Bishop Barron's mission to evangelize through the beauty of Catholic tradition.

While much of Western Europe faces declining church attendance and empty seminaries, Poland stands apart with an unwavering Catholic spirit.

This year, over 200 young men in Poland answered the call to become priests, highlighting the country’s vibrant religious life.

Polish families remain confident in raising children in faith, passing down traditions through generations that have endured war and oppression.

Major youth festivals in Krakow and Warsaw are drawing thousands, reflecting a community energized by song, prayer, and shared purpose.

Priests remain highly visible—active not just in parishes, but across schools and public events, making faith a lived, daily experience.

Parishes and seminaries in cities like Poznań and Lublin are thriving, fueled by local support and increased interest from young people.

As Western leaders look to Poland for answers, the message is clear: building strong, engaged communities breathes new life into faith.

Artificial intelligence is sparking urgent debate across the United States, as a sweeping national AI strategy pushes the country toward technological leadership.

While some see exciting possibilities, the Catholic community faces deep questions about human dignity and the soul's uniqueness.

With generative AI blurring boundaries between people and machines, parishes and universities nationwide are asking: What truly separates humans from algorithms?

In Los Angeles, a new Catholic working group is helping students explore AI’s ethical challenges and the importance of upholding human limits.

Local dioceses in cities such as Chicago and San Francisco are hosting forums where priests and laypeople stress the need for clear moral guidance as AI shapes decisions in job markets, public health, and security.

As AI-powered surveillance expands in hospitals and airports, Catholic ethicists demand open, public debate on technology’s rightful place — and its boundaries.

The message echoes: Only humans possess a soul. Without faith-led dialogue, the risk grows that society may lose sight of what makes us truly human.

In Gaza City, hope endures amid relentless conflict, anchored by the faith of Father Gabriel Romanelli and his parish at Holy Family Church.

A night of sorrow struck when a missile hit the church compound, leaving three dead and over a dozen wounded.

Pain was raw, but the parish community chose courage, gathering among shattered walls for Mass while the burning skyline framed their prayers.

Despite ongoing clashes and shattered neighborhoods, Holy Family remains Gaza’s only Catholic parish—a sanctuary within chaos—where families share meager supplies and lean on faith.

Father Romanelli, undeterred by devastation, continues to minister, inspired by the Catholic call to carry one’s cross.

Even as aid falters and blackouts persist, parishioners refuse to let despair snuff out their devotion, sending a powerful message: faith grows fiercer under siege.

The church, battered yet unbowed, stands as a symbol of compassion and enduring grace in Gaza.

The word Psalms instantly summons images of prayerful gatherings and a tradition that resonates from ancient temples to today’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Meaning “song” in Greek, the Psalms have served generations as a spiritual soundtrack, spanning emotions from anguish to exultation.

Locally, congregations—from Brooklyn synagogues to downtown Chicago parishes—bring these texts to life each week, uniting voices across thousands of years.

This poetic collection, divided into five books, reflects on themes like lament, triumph, exile, and restoration, with authors as diverse as King David, Solomon, Asaph, and the Sons of Korah.

This July, an Austin multi-faith concert drew crowds with fresh musical interpretations, showing the Psalms’ ongoing relevance.

During challenging times, such as the pandemic, local groups found comfort and connection in the honesty of these verses.

From interfaith vigils to Bible studies, the Psalms remain the living, unifying heart of communities in 2025.

Pope Leo XIV marked the 56th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing with a heartfelt conversation on July 20, 2025, connecting with Buzz Aldrin, the iconic astronaut whose journey with Neil Armstrong and Michael Collins reshaped history.

The two reflected on the enduring significance of human exploration and the awe-inspiring mystery of the cosmos.

Pope Leo XIV offered blessings to Aldrin, his family, and fellow astronauts, recognizing their remarkable contributions to space exploration.

Earlier, the Pope made his first visit to the Vatican Observatory in Castel Gandolfo since his election, engaging with astronomers and students about the dynamic intersection of faith and science.

This visit reinforces Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to dialogue between scientific advancement and spiritual reflection.

Continuing a tradition upheld by his predecessors, the Pope’s actions celebrate both human achievement and the enduring wonders of creation.

Our Lady of the Mountains Church in Whistler, BC, is preparing to reveal its dramatically renovated sanctuary following five years of planning and construction.

This transformation provides Whistler’s only Catholic church with a dedicated spiritual space, echoing the mountain town’s alpine character while welcoming locals and an annual influx of nearly three million visitors.

The redesign converts the former multipurpose hall into a stunning sacred environment, featuring a new sanctuary, a 15-foot choir loft for 25 members, and interiors adorned with 23 sacred elements including a communion rail and statues.

Highlighting Whistler’s ski-town heritage, the church now boasts soaring 40-foot timber-frame ceilings reminiscent of a classic chalet.

Despite budget hikes from $5.5 million to $6.7 million due to unexpected challenges, dedicated parishioners—led by philanthropist Andy Szocs—and donors ensured the vision was realized.

The newly expanded church will triple seating, enabling community growth and seasonal celebrations, and serve as a beacon for events and retreats.

At the Vatican on July 2, 2025, young European Catholics launched an ambitious initiative to reinvigorate the continent’s Christian roots.

Known as Rome ‘25 – The Way of St. James ‘27 – Jerusalem ‘33, the project invites youth on a spiritual journey culminating in the 2033 Jubilee of Redemption in Jerusalem.

Guided by Bishop Mikel Garciandía of Spain and supported by major Catholic institutions, the initiative aims to inspire young people to explore faith through pilgrimage, healing, and evangelization.

Thousands of youth have contributed to a powerful manifesto—a “living voice” expressing hope, faith, and dreams for Europe’s future.

Project leaders, including Fernando Moscardó and Father Antonio Ammirati, emphasize the non-political, joyous proclamation of the Gospel.

Religious leaders across Europe, including Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, have voiced support, seeing the movement as a beacon for renewal and unity.

This journey seeks to restore spiritual depth to European pilgrimage, offering hope and meaning in uncertain times.

The Brown Scapular devotion is a revered tradition rooted in the 13th century, symbolizing profound commitment to the Virgin Mary and the Carmelite Order.

This devotion began when St. Simon Stock, an English Carmelite, received the scapular from Mary with a promise of salvation for faithful wearers.

In the Bronx, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on East 187th Street remains a vibrant center for this spiritual practice.

The church hosts dynamic community events, such as a collaboration with the Bronx Arts Ensemble Orchestra and the St. Anthony of Padua Holy Relic Tour, fostering both faith and culture.

Though the parish’s school will close in 2025 after celebrating its centennial, the devotion remains strong.

Annual events like the Our Lady of Mount Carmel feast day and block party keep the tradition alive, offering guidance for those seeking a deeper connection to faith.

On June 22, 2024, a suicide bomber struck the Greek Orthodox Church of the Prophet Elias in Dweila, Damascus, killing 25 worshippers.

The attack, blamed by Syrian officials on the Islamic State, highlights the ongoing and severe persecution Christians face across the Middle East.

Christian communities in Syria and Iraq have dwindled drastically, as thousands flee violence from extremists.

Prominent Catholic author Robert Royal has documented this global crisis in his new book, emphasizing that persecution extends worldwide, from North Korea to Mexico, Nigeria, and beyond.

In 2024 alone, nearly 5,000 Christians were killed for their faith, with Nigeria witnessing the highest toll.

Across Latin America, narco-violence has targeted priests and religious workers, with Mexico emerging as the deadliest country for Catholic clergy.

This widespread crisis calls for urgent recognition of Christian martyrs and stronger advocacy from both religious and civic communities.

Charles de Foucauld, canonized in May 2022, continues to inspire through his life of humility, radical simplicity, and compassion for the marginalized.

Born in 1858 to French nobility and orphaned young, Charles's restless search for meaning took him from indulgence and military service to deep spiritual awakening influenced by encounters in Morocco.

He returned to Catholicism, embracing a vocation modeled on Jesus's hidden life in Nazareth, and eventually moved to the Sahara to live among the Tuareg people.

There, he learned their language, built friendships, and dedicated himself to service, hospitality, and prayer until his tragic death in 1916.

Communities like the Little Brothers and Little Sisters of Jesus now continue his legacy, embodying his vision of unconditional love and solidarity.

St. Charles's words and prayer of abandonment still resonate strongly for those seeking faith and purpose today.

Padre Pio, the renowned Capuchin friar, persistently stressed the sacredness of the Eucharist and the need for deep reverence when receiving Holy Communion.

He warned that taking the sacrament in a state of mortal sin is a grave offense, highlighting the necessity of self-examination and repentance.

His teachings on recognizing the Real Presence of Christ have become especially relevant after recent events.

During the June 2025 National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, participants encountered protests challenging core Catholic beliefs.

A 2024 survey by the Real Presence Coalition showed that 58% of respondents feel modern Communion practices have lessened faith in the Eucharist.

Local parishes are responding with renewed catechesis and a return to traditional practices, such as receiving Communion on the tongue while kneeling, to foster deeper devotion and respect.

Padre Pio’s message calls the faithful to approach the sacrament with humility and love.

Charlene Richard, lovingly called the Little Cajun Saint, continues to inspire Louisiana and beyond with her deep faith and courage.

Born in 1947 in Richard, Louisiana, Charlene was the second of ten siblings in a devoted Catholic family.

After being diagnosed with leukemia at age 12, she spent her final days at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Lafayette, praying and offering her suffering for others.

Her remarkable grace led the Diocese of Lafayette to open her cause for sainthood in January 2020, a process advanced in 2021 by U.S. bishops recognizing her influence and virtue.

On her 77th birthday in 2024, a ceremony at St. Edward Church marked the closure of the diocesan phase, forwarding her case to the Vatican.

Charlene’s legacy is felt through reported miracles, local memorial Masses, and the enduring comfort she brings to families facing hardship.

Amid the rush and noise of modern life, many Catholics struggle with distraction and spiritual fatigue. The ancient Liturgy of the Hours offers a time-tested remedy, inviting believers to mark their days with meaningful prayer and reflection.

Once reserved for clergy, this structured cycle of psalms, hymns, and scripture now welcomes all. Since the Second Vatican Council, lay participation has been strongly encouraged, helping everyday Catholics root themselves in the Church’s continuous prayer.

Starting with Morning and Evening Prayer creates natural anchors for the day. Over time, many find comfort expanding to include Night Prayer or other hours, deepening their spiritual routine.

User-friendly apps and online platforms now bring these sacred texts to anyone’s fingertips. Virtual communities, such as those formed by the Guild of St. Benedict Joseph Labre, highlight how Catholics can unite in communal prayer, wherever they are.

Embracing the Liturgy of the Hours nurtures a lasting, peaceful connection with God in daily life.

Saints Louis and Zélie Martin built a home where faith formed the core of everyday life in late-19th-century France.

Married in 1858, they dedicated themselves to raising their children within a deeply Catholic household, marked by daily prayer and participation in the sacraments.

Despite losing four of their nine children in infancy, the Martins remained resilient, finding strength in their unwavering belief in God.

Zélie’s lace-making business and Louis’s work as a watchmaker were expressions of their faith, offering lessons in integrity and diligence to their surviving children.

All five daughters entered religious life, with the youngest becoming St. Thérèse of Lisieux.

The Martins’ legacy proves sanctity is possible in ordinary family routines.

Today, their example inspires families to infuse daily life with love and holiness, fostering a true “domestic church.”

A mysterious alignment of seven shrines dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel stretches from Ireland to Israel, long inspiring both faith and fascination.

This line, called the Sword of St. Michael, symbolizes spiritual protection and the timeless struggle between good and evil.

In June 2024, Ourém, Portugal welcomed the second Shrines of Europe Cultural Festival, uniting artists and traditions from each holy site and celebrating their shared history.

By September, Fr. Luke Washicko led pilgrims through four of these sacred places, deepening connections to centuries of devotion.

With upcoming journeys set for 2025, believers look to further explore sites in Italy, Greece, and Israel, seeking purpose and protection in these uncertain times.

For many, this legendary path is both a breathtaking pilgrimage and a moving reminder of faith’s luminous guidance.

Adapting to Catholic teachings on birth control brought unexpected challenges, especially as I embraced Natural Family Planning (NFP) as a way of life.

Tracking fertility, practicing abstinence, and aligning our marriage with these rhythms proved much more demanding than anticipated, particularly as we welcomed our seven children.

The emotional toll sometimes led to frustration and strained communication with my husband as we navigated each phase together.

However, these struggles gradually became opportunities for deeper intimacy and growth.

Through open dialogue, mutual support, and faith in God’s plan, we discovered a supportive community, especially at local events like “Love Beyond Measure” in Royal Oak.

NFP evolved from a challenge into a shared journey—fostering respect, responsibility, and a more profound connection in our marriage and faith.