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Dec 21, 2009 · "Purgatory is not necessarily a place, although because we like concrete images, we make it into a place," Father Hart said. "It’s rather … a preparation for glory.

Mar 6, 2024 · Liturgical colors used during Mass, most notably priests’ vestments, can vary depending on the occasion and time of year.

Feb 6, 2025 · Section: Photo Galleries High-school seniors were recognized during the 2025 Hands of Christ awards ceremonies, which took place Feb. 3-5. The awards are presented by the diocese to recognize seniors who have exhibited outstanding service in their parishes, homes, schools and communities, demonstrating Christian attitudes through their words and examples.

Feb 12, 2016 · Section: Lent and Easter Stations of the Cross — sometimes called Way of the Cross — is a popular Lenten devotion that has very ancient roots. It was prayed by early Christian communities, especially in the fourth century, when the Roman Empire began to …

Aug 3, 2020 · Mary is depicted in a stained-glass window at St. Mary Church in Manhasset, N.Y. The feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Aug. 15, celebrates church doctrine that Mary was taken body and soul into heaven at the end of her life.

Feb 25, 2025 · Section: Lent and Easter Ash Wednesday (March 5) and Good Friday (April 18) are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.

How to Pray the Rosary 1) Begin by making the Sign of the Cross. 2) Holding the crucifix pray the Apostles’ Creed. 3) On the first bead pray the Our Father.

Jun 29, 2024 · Section: Vocations Holy Orders is the sacrament of ordination in the Roman Catholic Church by which men become deacons, priests and bishops. “Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time: thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry,” explains the Catechism of the Catholic Church ...

Mar 19, 2025 · VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis no longer needs the “noninvasive mechanical ventilation” he has used most nights since experiencing a breathing “crisis” Feb. 28, his doctors reported in a bulletin released by the Vatican press office March 19. “The Holy Father’s clinical condition is ...