BLOG: Fr. Raphael Ma, CR
To say that the election of Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio as pope was a surprise is an understatement. Since his name was announced on the balcony of St. Peter’s square March 13, there has been great interest in what he has to say and teach on matters of the faith. There are several sources of information ...read more
Archbishop Francis Chullikatt (above), the Apostolic Nuncio to the United Nations, recently presented a statement in the Ad Hoc Working Group on Sustainable Development Goals in New York City.  The Working Group met specifically to exchange and discuss views on poverty eradication.  Below is the full text of Archbishop Chullikatt’s statement, in which he argues ...read more
As a 22 year old, it is always humbling to have to ask for money from those whom I know, in many cases, are struggling financially themselves. There seems to be a financial need everywhere these days – coming to us from places like our homes, workplaces and places of worship. It is sobering to ...read more
Pope Francis celebrates his name day, the Romanian Greek Orthodox Eparchy of St. George is expanded to cover all of Canada, and we take a look at what’s happening across the country. ...read more
Following is the homily prepared by Cardinal Seán O’Malley at a Mass at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross for the victims of Monday’s bombing at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. The delivery of the homily, as seen in the video above, has several additions: Jesus said “they will strike the shepherd and the sheep will scatter”; ...read more
The Easter season continues with yet another episode of Lectio Divina. On this month’s edition, Cardinal Thomas Collins of Toronto continues his series of reflections on the Year of Faith by looking at St. Paul’s letter to the Romans. In that very letter, St. Paul writes, “So faith comes from what is heard; and what ...read more
A reflection on Isaiah 6:1-2; 3-8; 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 and Luke 5:1-11 Tomorrow the Church marks the 50th World Day of Prayer for Vocations, a day that is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Easter, traditionally known as Good Shepherd Sunday. As I reflect on the readings for Good Shepherd Sunday (Acts 13:14,43-52; Revelation 7:9,14-17 ...read more
Pope Francis chose a fitting day to preside at the first priestly ordinations of his pontificate. Tomorrow, April 21, is the 50th World Day of Prayer for Vocations, an occasion instituted by Servant of God Paul VI in the midst of the Second Vatican Council. The fourth Sunday of Easter also represents Good Shepherd Sunday, ...read more
  The pope creates and advisory panel Eight Cardinals from around the world have been asked by Pope Francis to advise him on reforms to the Roman Curia. The Vatican announced April 13 that Pope Francis had appointed eight cardinals to be part of an advisory panel to help him make changes to “Pastor Bonus,” ...read more
An inter-faith service was held at Boston’s Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Thursday. Below is the text of remarks by Cardinal Sean O’Malley. Religious and Political leaders took part in the service. My dear brothers, sisters and friends. On behalf of our Catholic community, I wish to welcome all of you here to the ...read more