All Souls’ Day – Praying for the Souls in Purgatory

November 3, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

All Souls’ Day, celebrated on November 2nd, is a significant observance in the Catholic Church. It is a day dedicated to honoring and praying for the souls of the departed, particularly those in Purgatory. This solemn occasion offers Catholics the opportunity to reflect on the concept of life after death, the communion of saints, and the importance of intercessory prayer. Historical Background The history of All Souls’ Day can be traced back to the early Christian tradition of commemorating the... Read more

All Saints’ Day – Remembering The Holy Men And Women

November 1, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

All Saints’ Day is observed every year on November 1st – it is a significant and revered day in the Catholic Church. This holy day of obligation is a time when Catholics around the world honor the saints, both known and unknown, who have dedicated their lives to living in accordance with God’s will. It is a day of reflection, veneration, and gratitude for the countless holy men and women who have set an example for the faithful. Historical Origins... Read more

Contemplating on the Mysteries of the Rosary

October 31, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

The rosary, a revered and timeless prayer in many religious traditions, serves as a sacred pathway for millions seeking solace, reflection, and connection with the divine.The mysteries of the rosary guide believers through meditative reflections on key moments in the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. Comprising joyful, sorrowful, glorious, and luminous episodes, these mysteries invite devotees into a spiritual journey, which offers a profound connection to the divine narrative. As beads are counted and prayers recited, the mysteries... Read more

Saint Catherine of Siena Teaches Us to Embrace Truth in the Face of Conflict

October 17, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

“We’ve had enough exhortations to be silent. Cry out with a thousand tongues – I see the world is rotten because of silence.” – Saint Catherine of Siena In a world filled with corruption and conflict, the pursuit of truth should be every nation’s mission. Saint Catherine of Siena, a timeless figure whose unwavering dedication to truth remains an inspiration to this day, teaches us the invaluable lesson of embracing truth even in the face of adversity. Born in the... Read more

The Broad Concept of Restorative Justice in Laudato Si’

September 26, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

In several countries around the world, their justice systems rarely show mercy towards incarcerated offenders. Rehabilitation measures and policies that exist within some justice systems oftentimes do not promote a healthy environment for offenders. In his encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis offers a deeper meaning and broader implications of restorative justice. Writings such as Laudato Si’ invite people to be responsible about the decisions they make and to base them on their personal experience of faith and civic ethics. Everyone... Read more

The ‘Yes’ of Mary and the ‘Yes’ of Joseph

September 22, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

The story of Mary and Joseph is one of the most fascinating accounts in the Bible, yet it remains shrouded in mystery. From ancient vows spoken in a humble village to the enduring lessons the world can glean from their journey, the timeless legacy of this couple is nothing short of extraordinary. In an era where relationships are often fleeting and the true meaning of commitment is often lost, their unwavering devotion serves as a beacon of hope. Jewish Background... Read more

From Secretary to Confidante: The Untold Story of Madre Pascalina Lehnert

June 20, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

In the world of the Catholic Church, there are many stories of noteworthy individuals whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the faith. One such individual was Madre Pascalina Lehnert, who served as the personal secretary to Pope Pius XII for over years. While her name may not be as well-known as some of the other key figures in the Church’s history, her story is both remarkable. From her early days as a young nun to her rise to... Read more

What Is The Carmelite Monks Wyoming Scandal?

May 16, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

Mystic Monk Coffee (MMC) is a coffee brand founded in 2007 by the Carmelite Monks in Wyoming, USA. For years the monks relied on the profits they were receiving from the coffee sales to support their monastery and religious activities. The brand gained popularity and it received praises and endorsements from coffee influencers and connoisseurs. MMC had a strong consumer base for several reasons. Firstly, they provided high quality coffee made from Arabica beans to their consumers. Secondly, the monks... Read more

Celebrating Mother’s Day and the Month of Mary: A Sacred Connection

May 15, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

In the month of May, two significant festivities occur that share a profound connection – Mother’s Day and the Catholic Church’s devotion to Mary, the mother of Jesus. The link brings together the celebration of earthly mothers and the veneration of the ultimate spiritual mother. As people around the world honour the nurturing, selfless love of their mothers, Catholics also pay homage to Mary’s exceptional role in the Catholic faith. Understanding the historical and spiritual significance of both celebrations helps... Read more

From the Pulpit to the Earthquake: The Jesuits’ Surprising Impact on Seismology

April 27, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

The Jesuits are known for their contributions in various fields, including education, astronomy, and cartography. However, their involvement in seismology is often overlooked. For centuries, Jesuit Catholic priests have been recording seismic activity and studying its effects on buildings and structures around the world. Their meticulous observations and data have helped the world to understand the science of earthquakes and the mitigation of their impact. The Jesuits and their involvement in science Ignatius of Loyola founded the Jesuits, also... Read more