BLOG: Maria Montemayor
Volunteers are an integral part of a parish community. They help run most ministries, and their work can result in a lively and thriving Catholic church. Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people and contribute to the well-being of your parish. In my previous article, I interviewed several young adults about their experience ...read more
As Catholics, we are called to be examples of God’s love to others. Pope Francis stated, "It is not enough to say we are Christians. We must live the faith, not only with our words, but with our actions." Fewer Canadians are engaging in group religious activities, yet some Catholics are going against the trend. Meet four young adults who are serving the Church in Canada. ...read more
Many people associate Lent with sacrifice and giving up something they enjoy. However, Lent isn’t just about suffering and repentance: it’s also about spiritual growth. It’s a time for introspection, reflection, and self-examination. As Catholics, we are called to look inward, turn away from our vices, and seek God’s healing, strength, and guidance to make ...read more
A pilgrimage is a spiritual journey to a sacred destination. While seeing beautiful and holy sites can be a perk of going on pilgrimages, people primarily embark on Catholic pilgrimages to encounter God in a profound and personal way. The goal is to come back transformed and, through your prayers, to transform the lives of ...read more
Come, Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: free the prisoners of darkness! Jesus is the key of David, setting prisoners free. I am reminded of Luke 23:42-43, when the good thief said to Jesus, “remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And Jesus replied to him, “Amen, I say to ...read more
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O Adonai
Maria Montemayor
December 18, 2022
Come, Leader of ancient Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: rescue us with your mighty power! “Adonai” means “my Lord,” and is an ancient title of God. The Antiphon prayer reflects on God who spoke to Moses by the burning bush and gave him the Ten Commandments. A few months ago, I ...read more
On December 8, we celebrate Mary and how she was free from original sin from the moment of her conception. The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is an important feast day around the world. Many countries like the Philippines, Italy, Malta, Portugal, and Colombia made this day a public holiday. In the United States, it ...read more
Lent has always been my favourite season in the liturgical calendar. The best part of Lent, for me, has been fasting. During Lent, I’ve fasted from Facebook, YouTube videos, meat, and even added sugar. Without exception, I’ve always felt cleansed, less dependent on whatever social media or food I gave up, and closer to God ...read more
St. Cecilia is known for being the patron saint of music, musicians, and composers. According to tradition, St. Cecilia came from a wealthy family and was promised in marriage to a Roman pagan named Valerian. She had already made a vow of virginity to God, and she prayed and fasted that her promise be preserved.  ...read more
Today is the feast day of St. Martin de Porres, one of my favourite saints. St. Martin was born in Lima, Peru on December 9, 1579 to a Spanish nobleman and a freed slave from Panama. His parents were never married, and his father abandoned his family after St. Martin’s sister was born. St. Martin ...read more