Articles

It's not just a chair, but a teaching office

"The Catholic Church has a feast day to a chair?" you may ask. Yes, and we should remember to be grateful, particularly on the Feast of the Chair of St. Peter the Apostle on Feb. 22, for Christ's loving protection of His Church.

A life of heroic virtue: St. Peter Damian

He was a monk, cardinal, and Doctor of the Church. He confronted kings and clergy, lived a life of heroic virtue, and was a prolific writer for the Church. He is St. Peter Damian (feast day: Feb. 21), known for his Church reforms, diplomatic ability, holiness, and great theological mind. 

Resting with Jesus

"Father Thad has been teaching our community about poverty in religious life," says Brother Josh, "and for me, poverty is tied to peace, freedom, and simplicity. My mind feels tranquil when I have very little."

Valentine's Day is Ash Wednesday. What to Make of That?

This year, one of the most austere observances on the liturgical calendar coincides with a holiday synonymous with fancy dinners, fine wine, expensive jewelry, and rich chocolates. Ash Wednesday falls on Feb. 14 - Valentine's Day.

Meet the new 'Fr. Joseph': Fr. Mark Baron, MIC

Every few years, a new “Father Joseph, MIC,” is appointed, the titular head of the Association of Marian Helpers. This January, Fr. Mark Baron, MIC, took the reins from the Very Rev. Chris Alar, MIC, to become the 21st Fr. Joseph.

North American Sanctity: St. José Sánchez del Rio

Martyred for his refusal to deny Christ, 14-year-old St. José Sánchez del Rio (feast day: Feb. 10) was a member of the Cristeros, a group of landowners, ranchers, and sharecroppers who revolted against the anti-Catholic government of Mexico in the 1920s. The first article in a new series on saints and future saints from Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

Public speaking

Brother Josh, MIC, is asked to speak in front of a parish congregation about his vocation and the charisms of the Marian Congregation. "When I got to our charisms, I made another mistake," he admits.

"I want a beautiful soul": St. Joan de Valois

On Feb. 4, Catholics around the world unite to remember the "other" St. Joan of France, St. Joan de Valois, patroness of the Marian Congregation. Born into a world that despised her and reviled her appearance, this soul became a light in the world that longed for true beauty. 

A Call That Pierces Families

Brother Josh, MIC, responds personally to the message of Luke's Gospel: “Blessed are you who are now weeping, for you will laugh.” 

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