Vatican Radio offers an interesting reflection on this intention, returning to the Pontiff's 2008 meeting with the clergy of the Diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone in Italy. Read here the Holy Father's response to a priest who is suffering from multiple sclerosis. Also around this time of year, we consider peace. How many Christmas cards, songs, or advertisements stress "peace on earth"? In this preparation of Advent, perhaps we should make an extra effort to cultivate a true peace in our hearts. One way to do this is to be especially open to our Lord and the Gospel. Pope Benedict highlights this in his mission intention:That our personal experience of suffering may be an occasion for better understanding the situation of unease and pain which is the lot of many people who are alone, sick or aged, and stir us all to give them generous help.
That the peoples of the earth may open their doors to Christ and to His Gospel of peace, brotherhood and justice.- CNS Photo/Paul Haring
At the Manresa Spiritual Renewal Centre in Pickering, ON, retreatants of all ages can encounter a God of surprises.
In June, 2024, the domed roof and interior of St. Anne's Anglican Church in Toronto tragically burned down. However, the parish community continues to stand strong and serve its neighbourhood.
Pope Francis invites us to pray for vocations to the priesthood and religious life, that the ecclesial community might welcome the desires and doubts of those young people who feel a call to serve Christ’s mission in the priesthood and religious life.
Pope Francis invites us to pray for the right to an education for migrants, refugees and those affected by war; that their right to an education, which is necessary to build a better world, may always be respected.
I had the wonderful opportunity to meet with the CND sisters and enjoy a special lunch of soup, pizza, salad, and dessert. While I was there, I thought it would be a great opportunity to ask the sisters about what they were looking forward to this Christmas.