[ad_1] Image © by Christos Georghiou | Shutterstock Dr. Scott Hahn reflects on the Mass readings for the First Sunday of Advent (Year A) Readings:Isaiah 2:1–5Psalm 122:1–9Romans 13:11–14Matthew 24:37–44 Jesus exaggerates in today’s Gospel when He claims not to know the day or the hour when He will come again. He occasionally makes such overstatements to drive home a point we might otherwise miss (see Matthew 5:34; 23:9; Luke 14:26).… Read More »Dr. Scott Hahn – The Hour is Late — Integrated Catholic Life™

[ad_1] One of the greatest blessings we have been given is the ability to serve others.  We serve them in many ways, especially in accord with our particular vocation.  But the greatest service we could ever render a person is to be a minister of the Mercy of God, leading them to the glories of Heaven.  Imagine what Heaven will be like knowing that you have inspired countless souls to… Read More »Reflection 334: Serving Souls – Daily Reflections on Divine Mercy

[ad_1] By Christine Rousselle* Credit: Andreas F. Borchert via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0) Ireland’s patron saint is St. Patrick, and for good reason: he brought Christianity to the Emerald Isle. St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on March 17 around the world, both by the Irish and those who are only Irish-for-a-day. But Patrick isn’t the only saint the Irish adore–here are seven more Irish saints you should know about,… Read More »Seven Irish saints who are not named Patrick – CNA Blog

[ad_1] By Christine Rousselle   The popularity of genealogy research, particularly through the use of DNA kits and online resources, is a sign that humans are longing for a sense of community and kinship, a panelist at the World Meeting of Families’ panel “The Importance of Belonging: Exploring Contemporary Interest in Genealogy” theorized Aug. 22. Genealogy research has become “like an addiction,” particularly in Ireland, said panelist Dr. Michael Egan,… Read More »‘Kiss me I’m Irish’ – new DNA tests confirm heritage, solidify identity – CNA Blog

[ad_1] Screenshot. Religious articles seem to have an uncanny knack for surviving natural disasters. While an “inferno” burnt down an 1800’s-era Baptist church in Wakefield, Mass., one thing survived basically unscathed – a large painting of Jesus Christ. “I’m personally taking it as a sign and a reminder that the Jesus, the Christ that we serve is still alive and even though our church building is gone our church is… Read More »Jesus painting survives church fire unscathed – CNA Blog

[ad_1] So, it’s the 42nd annual Vocations Awareness Week in the United States, and you’re looking for the perfect ways to promote vocations to the consecrated life, right? Well look no further. Here are three things that will help you promote vocations (for women) to religious life. 1. “For Love Alone” – a film about women religious The Council of Major Superiors of Women Religious, a collaborative groups of women… Read More »3 Nun things for Vocation Awareness week – CNA Blog

[ad_1] On Dec. 8, the Church celebrates the feast of the Immaculate Conception (it’s a Holy Day of Obligation, so make sure you get to Mass)! There are three common misconceptions about this feast day in particular that we’d like to bust wide open. Myth #1: This is about Jesus’ conception Nope. The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception celebrates Mary’s Immaculate Conception – the fact that from her conception in… Read More »Catholic Myth-busters: Immaculate Conception edition – CNA Blog

[ad_1] When it comes to fasting, we Catholics don’t have much to complain about. We fast, but we can still have a normal meal and two smaller meals. We can’t eat meat on Fridays, but we can eat fish. And so we fry it. And throw a party with all our friends. And drink beer. The Church has also been pretty accommodating in the realm of deciding what is fish and not-fish… Read More »The giant Venezuelan rodent that tastes like fish, and other obscure Lenten delicacies. – CNA Blog

[ad_1] November 30, 2019 Daily Reading from the USCCB: Psalm 19:8, 9, 10, 11 https://www.franciscanmedia.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/SW_113011_II.mp3   Today is the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle. Today’s psalm verses deal with the excellence and the beauty of God’s law–with the directions that the Lord provides for those who dedicate themselves to Him. The law of the Lord refreshes the soul and gives wisdom to those willing to accept it. It brings… Read More »Sharing the Word for November 30, 2019

[ad_1] By Hannah Brockhaus Rome has an abundance of beautiful churches, interesting relics, and sacred art. To wander the streets of the city’s historic center is to stumble upon something amazing. But some of Rome’s treasures are just a little more hidden. Here are three less-known Marian images which can be found in Rome… if one knows where to look. Mater Admirabilis: Spanish Steps Mater Admirabilis. Public Domain. Rome’s marvelous… Read More »Three hidden Marian images to find in Rome – CNA Blog