The saints may appear perfect, leading us to believe that we are too flawed to become saints. The unlikely example of St Peter can console us all: no-one is too human or too flawed to become a saint! On the contrary, Jesus calls us all to follow him and become saints in the process — each in our own way, with our qualities and flaws.
Spiritual Communion is the heartfelt desire to receive Our Lord, even when we are unable because of the distance or for some other reason. Use this prayer from St Alphonsus Liguroi when you can't receive the Eucharist.
Six weeks into Italy’s lockdown, Pope Francis stood there before a large dark wooden crucifix, praying for an end to the pandemic. In 1522, as a violent plague struck Rome, this same crucifix was carried in a penitential procession. When the crucifix was returned, the plague had completely ceased. Fifty years later, another shepherd, also barefoot and with a crucifix in his hand, went on pilgrimage through the streets of his own city, calling for mercy for his flock afflicted by the plague.
The official message of Pope Francis for Lent 2021: “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem” (Mt 20:18) Lent: a Time for Renewing Faith, Hope and Love
Meditate on the readings for the First Sunday of Lent, letting the themes of temptation and sin offer a foundation for repentance this Lent.
Do you want to improve your prayer life? When the disciples asked Jesus how to pray, He taught them the Our Father. In this blog, find reflections for each petition of the Lord's Prayer to guide your prayer.
