Bits and Pieces Dear Friends, This weekend, as we commence the lovely season of Advent we also begin another liturgical or church year. This brings us, in terms of the Sunday readings, into the year of St Matthew. We listen to this Gospel once more, beginning this Sunday with the urgent message that we must…
The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe was instituted by Pope Pius XI in 1925, the year of the sixteenth centenary of the Council of Nicea at which the doctrine of the consubstantiality of Christ and the Father was defined. The Solemnity was moved by the Second Vatican Council to the…
Understanding the Gift of Purgatory Purgatory is one of the most hopeful and compassionate teachings of the Catholic faith, though it is often misunderstood. It is not a place of punishment or despair, but a merciful gift of God’s love—a state of final purification for souls who die in His grace yet are still in…
Ways of Gentleness and Paths of Peace 1. I vow to thee, my country, all earthly things above,entire and whole and perfect, the service of my love:the love that asks no question, the love that stands the test,that lays upon the altar the dearest and the best;the love that never falters, the love that pays…
On Praying for the Departed The evocative month of November is a time of remembrance. By the time you read this short article, we will have begun this month in which the Faithful Departed are especially remembered. The keeping of All Saints and All Souls Days reminds us that we are called to be citizens…
