The Story of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross Early in the fourth century, Saint Helena, mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, went to Jerusalem in search of the holy places of Christ’s life. She razed the second-century Temple of Aphrodite, which tradition held was built over the Savior’s tomb, and her son built the…
Author: CSSF
Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Story of the Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary This feast is a counterpart to the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus; both have the possibility of uniting people easily divided on other matters. The feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary began in Spain in 1513 and in 1671…
The 159th Anniversary of Approval of the Felician Congregation
The 157th Anniversary of Approval of the Felician Congregation As we celebrate the Nativity of Our Lady let us pray for all expectant mothers and the infants they carry, as well as for those women who are unable to bear children. As Joachim and Ann rejoiced in the birth of their daughter Mary, may parents…
September 8th – The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/nativity-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary The Church has celebrated Mary’s birth since at least the sixth century. A September birth was chosen because the Eastern Church begins its Church year with September. The September 8 date helped determine the date for the feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8. Scripture does not give an account of Mary’s birth….
The 7 Sorrows of Mary
The Seven Sorrows of Mary First Sorrow: The Prophecy of Simeon “And you yourself a sword will pierce” (Lk 2:35). Second Sorrow: The Flight into Egypt “The angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, ‘Rise, take the child and his mother, flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell…
Season of Creation Prayer
That we as individuals, as well as our communities, nation, and Church, might respond to Pope Francis’ call to “transform our hearts, our lifestyles, and public policies to contribute to the mighty river of justice and peace in this Season of Creation,” we pray. Prayer of Commitment to Care for Creation (USCCB) We have come…