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Pope Francis’ health continues to improve for the fourth consecutive day at Gemelli Hospital. Doctors remain cautious, emphasizing the need for further monitoring. The Pope maintains his routine, undergoing therapy, praying, and fulfilling his papal duties. Read the latest update. Pope Francis’ Health Shows Continued Improvement As Pope Francis marks his 13th day at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Thursday, February 27, his health continues to show steady progress for the fourth consecutive day. The latest update from the Holy See’s Press Office confirms that his condition is improving, though doctors stress the importance of ongoing monitoring before providing a definitive prognosis. A significant development in his treatment is the shift between high-flow oxygen therapy and a ventimask, signaling advancements in his respiratory function. However, given the complexity of his condition, physicians emphasize the need for several more days of clinical stability before assessing his full recovery. In light of this, the Vatican has officially canceled the Pope’s general audience scheduled for Saturday, March 1. Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis maintains a structured daily routine. On Thursday morning, he underwent respiratory physiotherapy, interspersed with periods of rest. In the afternoon, after another therapy session, he spent time in prayer in the hospital’s private chapel, where he received the Eucharist. He later resumed work-related tasks, continuing his papal responsibilities from his hospital room. Vatican media reports indicate that the Pope started his day with breakfast, followed by prescribed treatment and further medical examinations. Though he remains on oxygen support, he is well enough to sit in his chair. He is also aware of the many prayer initiatives organized for his recovery, and those close to him describe his mood as positive. While his condition is improving, the Vatican remains cautious, acknowledging that more time will be needed for the Pope to regain full stability. Sunday Reflection for Eight Sunday in Ordinary Times - YearC: Eight Sunday in Ordinary Times - Year C | Fr. Vincent Barboza

Reflection on Jesus' teachings in Luke 6:39-45 for the Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C). Explore the dangers of spiritual blindness, the need for humility, and how our actions reveal the true state of our hearts. Discover the call to true discipleship, self-examination, and bearing good fruit in our daily lives True Discipleship – Walking in the Light of Christ Today’s Gospel presents us with profound wisdom about discipleship, self-examination, and the true measure of a virtuous life. Jesus warns against spiritual blindness, hypocrisy, and the dangers of judging others while failing to recognize our own faults. He reminds us that our actions and words flow from the depths of our hearts, just as a tree is known by its fruit. Let us reflect on three key lessons from today’s reading. 1. The Blind Leading the Blind: The Need for True Spiritual Vision Jesus asks, "Can one blind man guide another? Surely both will fall into a pit?" (Luke 6:39). This is a sobering warning for those who take on the responsibility of leading others, whether as parents, teachers, priests, or mentors. The disciples of Jesus were to be the future teachers of the world, and so they needed to be enlightened by divine wisdom. How can one who lacks knowledge, virtue, and holiness guide others towards the truth? A disciple is not greater than his teacher, but he must strive to be like his teacher. If we claim to be followers of Christ, we must follow His example of humility, mercy, and love. St. Paul reminds us: “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” (1 Cor 11:1). If Christ does not judge but instead shows mercy, why should we judge? If we struggle with sin and yet try to correct others, we are like the blind leading the blind. First, we must allow Christ to heal our spiritual blindness before we can lead others. 2. The Splinter and the Plank: The Danger of Hypocrisy Jesus then asks, "Why do you observe the splinter in your brother’s eye and never notice the plank in your own?" (Luke 6:41). The image is striking. A small speck of dust compared to a massive wooden beam—this is how Jesus describes our tendency to judge others while ignoring our own serious faults. The plank represents grievous sin, while the splinter symbolizes minor faults. How often do we magnify the shortcomings of others while excusing our own failures? This is especially relevant for those in positions of authority. A preacher who condemns minor sins while neglecting his own is a hypocrite. True self-knowledge is essential. As St. Augustine says, “Lord, let me know myself, and let me know Thee.” Before we try to correct others, we must first purify our own hearts. Jesus does not say we should never correct others, but that correction must come from a place of humility and love, not self-righteousness. 3. A Tree and Its Fruit: The Heart as the Source of Good or Evil Jesus uses a powerful image: "There is no sound tree that produces rotten fruit, nor again a rotten tree that produces sound fruit." (Luke 6:43). The fruit of a tree tells us what kind of tree it is, just as our actions reveal the state of our hearts. Our external religious practices mean nothing if our hearts are not pure. As St. Teresa of Avila says, "What matters is not whether we wear a religious habit, but whether we live according to God’s will." What fills our hearts will overflow into our words and deeds. If our hearts are filled with bitterness, pride, and anger, our actions will reflect that. If they are filled with love, humility, and mercy, we will bear good fruit. True holiness is not just about words but about perseverance in good works. St. Ambrose reminds us, "The one who hears the Gospel but does not put it into practice denies Christ. The true witness is the one who fulfills His commandments." Conclusion: Living as True Disciples of Christ Dear brothers and sisters, today’s Gospel challenges us to examine our hearts and our way of life. Are we spiritually blind, trying to guide others without first seeking the light of Christ? Do we judge others harshly while ignoring our own faults? Are our hearts truly aligned with God’s will, bearing good fruit? Let us seek self-knowledge, practice humility, and strive for inner purification so that we may truly follow Christ and lead others to Him. May our hearts be filled with His love so that our words and actions may reflect His truth.

Stay informed with the latest updates from the Vatican and the Holy Father. This page brings you breaking news, official statements, and in-depth coverage of Pope Francis' teachings, travels, and health updates. Explore key developments in the Catholic Church, insights from Vatican officials, and global events shaping the faith. Whether it's papal addresses, Church decisions, or inspiring moments of spiritual leadership, you’ll find reliable and up-to-date news here. Pope's health improving Pope Francis’ health continues to improve for the fourth consecutive day at Gemelli Hospital. Doctors remain cautious, emphasizing the need for further monitoring. The Pope maintains his routine, undergoing therapy, praying, and fulfilling his papal duties. Update on Pope's Health The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis remains in serious but stable condition. While there have been no further respiratory crises, new concerns have emerged, including early signs of kidney insufficiency. His medical team continues to monitor his health closely. Pope Francis' Health Pope Francis, 88, is hospitalized. He is undergoing intensive treatment for pneumonia and respiratory issues. His condition remains serious, but he is alert and receiving ongoing care. The global Catholic community unites in prayer for his recovery.

A space for deepening our faith through reflections on the Sunday readings and major feast days. Explore insights, spiritual lessons, and practical takeaways to enrich your journey with Christ. Let every Sunday and feast day be a moment of grace and renewal True Disciples of Jesus Reflection on Jesus' teachings in Luke 6:39-45 for the Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C). Explore the dangers of spiritual blindness, the need for humility, and how our actions reveal the true state of our hearts. Discover the call to true discipleship, self-examination, and bearing good fruit in our daily lives Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Times - Year C "Love your enemies, do good, and be merciful—just as our Heavenly Father is merciful. This Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 6:27-38) challenges us to live out radical love, forgiveness, and generosity. Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Times - Year C Discover true happiness through Jesus' Beatitudes. This sermon contrasts worldly success with lasting joy in Christ, urging us to trust in God rather than fleeting comforts. Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Times - Year C "Put Out into the Deep" is a call to trust in Jesus even when the path seems uncertain. Based on Luke 5:1-11, this sermon invites us to step out in faith, embrace our mission, and follow Christ wholeheartedly. 5th Sunday in Ordinary Times - Year C God calls us to share in his mission even though we are sinners. The Presentation of the Lord Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the Temple Third Sunday in Ordinary Times- Year C Jesus announces his public ministry Second Sunday in Ordinary Times - Cycle C Jesus presence at Wedding at Cana Baptism of the Lord At the time of Baptism, the Holy Spirit came upon Jesus and voice from heaven said "You are my beloved Son. My favour rest on you The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord The Magi from East visited Baby Jesus, presented gifts and worshipped him The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord Magi from East paying a visit to Baby Jesus St. Teresa of Calcutta St. Teresa of Calcutta - the salt and light of the world Show More

Friendship, Marriage and Faithfulness to God Today, I had the joy of celebrating Mass for school children, and the Gospel reading of the day was from Mark 10:1-12. In this passage, the Pharisees ask Jesus, "Is it lawful for a husband to divorce his wife?" Jesus responds by affirming the sanctity of marriage, reminding them that God's original plan was for a man and woman to become one, inseparable in love and commitment. He explains that Moses permitted divorce only because of people's hardness of heart, but from the beginning, this was not God’s intention. As I reflected on how to convey this message to the children, I was struck by the providential connection between the Gospel and the first reading from the book of Sirach (6:5-17), which speaks about friendship. This passage offers practical wisdom on choosing and valuing true friends. It teaches us that a faithful friend is a "sturdy shelter," a "treasure beyond price," and even a "life-saving remedy." True friends are gifts from God, standing by us in times of joy and hardship. I shared with the children how school is one of the first places where lifelong friendships begin. As they grow, they will make new friends in college, at work, and in different phases of life. Some friendships will last a lifetime, providing support, encouragement, and joy. But Sirach reminds us to choose our friends wisely, for true friendship requires loyalty, trust, and faithfulness. This naturally led to the topic of marriage. A marriage is a unique and sacred friendship between a man and a woman, where love, respect, and commitment grow so deeply that they choose to journey through life together. Just as true friends stand by each other no matter what, so too, in marriage, a husband and wife are called to remain faithful to each other. When Jesus speaks against divorce, He is not giving a harsh rule but reminding us of the beauty of a love that endures. A true marriage is a true friendship—one that should last until death. To help the children understand this, I pointed to their own families. I asked them to look at the best example of true friendship in their lives—their parents. Their mother and father chose each other, love each other, and respect each other so much that they decided to spend their whole lives together. Their parents are also their best friends, always loving and caring for them. I encouraged the children to nurture their friendship with their parents—to be open with them, never hide anything, and always tell the truth. More than anyone else, parents deeply love and care for their children. But above all, I reminded them that the best friend they could ever have is Jesus. Jesus is the most faithful and loving friend we will ever know. He listens to us, walks with us, and never abandons us. I encouraged them to build a strong friendship with Jesus—talk to Him, share their joys and struggles, and trust in His guidance. Like a true friend, Jesus will always be there. Let us all pray for the grace to love Jesus as our true friend and to be blessed with good and faithful friendships throughout our lives.

Be a best version of yourself Assistant Priest at St. Vincent De Paul Church, Khar for 7 years Assistant Priest at Our Lady of Immaculate Conception Church, Borivli West for 5 years Parish Priest at Our Lady of Forsaken Church, Malwani Colony, Malad West, for 6 years Assistant Priest at St. Mary's Pro-Cathedral Parish, Christchurch (NZ) since November '22 Assistant Priest at Holy Name Parish, Timaru, NZ since February '24 Faith Formation and Outreach Programme Course on Catholic Apologetics Course on Evangelisation Course on New Religious Movements Course on "How to live an Abundant Life Retreats for different groups Seminars on Scriptures and Theological Topics Course on Different Methods of Prayers drawn from Church tradition Course on Memory Techniques to School students

Discover the significance of Baptism and its role in the Christian faith. Explore key topics including the meaning of Baptism, infant vs. adult Baptism, role of godparents and many other topics. What is Baptism? Baptism, the first sacrament of Christian life Is Baptism for Infant or Adult This page explores the Catholic teaching on Baptism for both, its biblical foundation, and the importance of receiving this sacrament at any stage of life. Is Baptism by pouring or immersion or both? This article explains the different valid forms of Baptism in the Catholic Church The role of Godparents The article explores the role of godparents, their responsibilities and the Church’s requirements, and the significance of their role in nurturing a strong Christian life."

From Friday 21 to Sunday 23 February 2025 the fourth of the great Jubilee events was held, the Jubilee dedicated to Deacons which brought over 6000 pilgrims to Rome, from around 100 countries around the world. The Jubilee of Deacons From Friday 21 to Sunday 23 February 2025 the fourth of the great Jubilee events was held, the Jubilee dedicated to Deacons which brought over 6000 pilgrims to Rome, from around 100 countries around the world. The largest group, with almost 4000 permanent deacons, and their families, were from Italy. Also present were 1300 from the United States, 656 from France, 350 from Spain, 230 from Brazil, 160 from Germany, and 150 from Mexico. Large groups also came from Poland, Colombia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Among the other countries represented were Cameroon, Nigeria, India, Indonesia, and Australia. 23 new deacons were ordained at a Mass on Sunday, February 23, in St. Peter's Basilica. The Pope delegated Archbishop Fisichella, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization to preside at the ceremony. Two of the new deacons came from Brazil, six from Colombia, one from France, three from Italy, three from Mexico, two from Poland, three from Spain, and three from the United States. On Friday the pilgrims were welcomed in 12 churches in the center of Rome and joined together in prayer with the common recitation of the Ora Media. Afterwards, a special catechesis for deacons was held in language groups (Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Polish, French, and English). The catechesis, followed by a sharing of experiences, was led by 12 bishops and had as its guiding theme "Concrete signs of hope in the diaconal ministry". The catechesis sessions were held in the Church of Santa Maria in Vallicella, in the Basilica of San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini, in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Aracoeli, at the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie al Trionfale, in the Church of San Gregorio VII, in the Basilica of Sant'Andrea della Valle, in the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Damaso, in the Basilica of SS. Ambrogio and Carlo al Corso, in the Sanctuary of San Salvatore in Lauro, in the Chapel of Santa Monica degli Agostiniani, in the Church of San Lorenzo in Piscibus and in the Basilica of Sant'Agostino in Campo Marzio. On Saturday 22, participants made their pilgrimage to the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica. Also on Saturday morning there was the International Meeting "Deacons in a Synodal and Missionary Church: Witnesses of Hope", organized by the Dicastery for the Clergy, held at the Auditorium Conciliazione. The Jubilee of Deacons continued on Saturday evening with the Prayer Vigil, in the Paul VI Hall and concluded on Sunday 23 February, with the Mass in St. Peter's Basilica

As Pope Francis continues his hospitalization, the Vatican has reported that his condition remains serious but stable. While there have been no further respiratory crises, new concerns have emerged, including early signs of kidney insufficiency. Despite his condition, the Pope remains alert and has even participated in a private Mass, demonstrating his enduring spiritual strength. However, his recovery remains uncertain, and doctors continue to navigate the complexities of his treatment. Pope Francis’ Health: Stability Amid New Concerns As Pope Francis marks his tenth day in the hospital, the Vatican has confirmed that his condition remains serious. However, in a statement issued on Sunday evening, February 23, officials noted that he has not experienced any further respiratory crises since the previous night. While this offers a small sign of stability, the overall medical situation remains complex. A new concern has now emerged: early signs of kidney failure. According to the Vatican’s medical bulletin, some of the Pontiff’s blood tests indicate mild renal insufficiency, a condition that is now under close medical observation. Meanwhile, his anemia—previously a major concern—has shown improvement following a transfusion of two units of concentrated red blood cells, leading to a rise in his hemoglobin levels. However, his thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) remains stable but still worrisome. The Pope continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy through nasal cannulas. A Fragile Balance Between Progress and Uncertainty While there are some positive developments, the Vatican acknowledges the seriousness of the situation. The statement affirms that Pope Francis remains “alert and well-oriented,” yet stresses that the complexity of his condition and the time required for treatment mean that his prognosis remains uncertain. The onset of renal insufficiency adds another layer of difficulty to his fragile health, potentially affecting essential bodily functions and complicating recovery. Given his age—88 years old—and history of respiratory issues, his medical team faces multiple challenges in ensuring his stability. Spiritual Strength Amid Health Struggles Despite his condition, Pope Francis participated in a private Mass on Sunday morning, held on the 10th floor of the hospital where he is being treated. The service, attended by members of his medical team and caregivers, provided a moment of spiritual solace even as his health remains precarious. A Long Road Ahead The latest Vatican update, though cautiously worded, underscores the delicate nature of the Pope’s condition. The absence of further respiratory crises is a hopeful sign, yet the persistence of other health concerns—now including kidney issues—indicates that his path to recovery will be challenging and uncertain.

Pope Francis, 88, is undergoing intensive treatment for pneumonia and respiratory issues. His condition remains serious, but he is alert and receiving ongoing care. The global Catholic community unites in prayer for his recovery Pope Francis' Health Pope Francis, the 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church, has faced a significant health decline over the past few days. Initially admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025, for bronchitis, his condition rapidly worsened, progressing to bilateral pneumonia. The Vatican’s health update on February 22 revealed that Pope Francis had suffered a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis, which required immediate and intensive medical intervention, including high-flow oxygen therapy and blood transfusions to address his worsening condition of anemia. Despite these treatments, Pope Francis remains in a serious condition, though he is still alert and has been seen sitting up. Medical experts remain cautious about his prognosis, though his ongoing care continues to be prioritized at the hospital. The Vatican has stated that his public engagements have been suspended for the time being, and there are no immediate plans for his return to public duties. During this challenging time, the global Catholic community has united in prayer for the Pope’s swift recovery. Special prayer services and masses have been held in Catholic Churches all over the world. Many faithful have expressed concern for the Holy Father, showing solidarity through various religious observances and prayers, hoping for his health to improve. Pope Francis continues to receive intensive medical care from a team of doctors and specialists. The Vatican has assured the public that all efforts are being made to stabilize his condition. For now, his health remains the focus, with updates expected as the medical team monitors his progress closely. As the situation develops, the Catholic Church and millions of its followers around the world are watching closely and praying for the Pope’s strength and recovery.

"Love your enemies, do good, and be merciful—just as our Heavenly Father is merciful. This Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 6:27-38) challenges us to live out radical love, forgiveness, and generosity. Living as true disciple of Jesus Today’s Gospel presents one of the most difficult teachings of Jesus—“Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you” (Luke 6:27). This command goes against our natural instincts. The world tells us to seek revenge, to return harm for harm, to demand justice on our terms. But Jesus calls us to a radical love, a love that reflects the mercy of God Himself. These words, positioned immediately after the Beatitudes and Woes, could well be seen as the core of Jesus' teaching about the love and compassion that Christians should have towards others. Throughout His earthly life, and particularly on the cross (Luke 23:34), Jesus sets an example for us: "In loving our enemies there shines forth in us some likeness to God our Father, who, by the death of his Son, ransomed from everlasting perdition and reconciled to himself the human race, which previously was most unfriendly and hostile to him" (Roman Catechism, 4, 14, 19). Our readings today help us to understand and embrace this divine challenge. We will reflect on three key aspects: (1) Mercy over vengeance, (2) The example of Jesus, and (3) The rewards of divine love. 1. Mercy Over Vengeance – The Example of David (First Reading) The First Reading from 1 Samuel tells the story of David sparing the life of King Saul. Saul was hunting David, seeking to kill him out of jealousy and fear. One night, David had the perfect opportunity to take Saul’s life, but he chose mercy over vengeance. He recognized that vengeance belongs to the Lord, not to man. David’s choice foreshadows the mercy that Jesus calls us to practice. When faced with betrayal, opposition, or mistreatment, how do we respond? The world teaches retaliation, but God calls us to forgive, to let go, and to trust in His justice. 2. The Example of Jesus – Love Without Limits (Gospel Reading) In the opening verses (Luke 6:27-30), our Lord lists some trials and tribulations we might encounter and how we should respond to them. The Semitic style of teaching by way of drawing contrasts conveys very vividly this teaching, which is summed up in verse 31: “As you wish that men would do to you, do so to them.” In verses 32-34, Jesus prepares us for the real reason why we should act as He describes: it is the behavior befitting a child of God (v. 35) who wants to imitate his or her merciful Father (v. 36). “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.” This verse parallels Matthew’s teaching: “You, therefore, must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). Mercy is the way to a close union with God, and Jesus, the Son of God, is the incarnation of divine mercy. St. Caesarius of Arles reminds us: “Everyone wants to have mercy shown to them, but few show mercy to others. [...] The human mercy we show during the pilgrimage of our life on earth will be repaid with divine mercy in our heavenly homeland.” Loving our enemies does not mean accepting injustice or allowing harm, but it does mean refusing to return evil for evil. It means treating others not as they deserve, but as God treats us—with love and mercy. 3. The Rewards of Divine Love (Second Reading & Gospel) St. Paul, in the Second Reading, reminds us that we are called to bear the image of Christ. If we follow the ways of the world, we remain as Adam—earthly and bound by sin. But when we live in Christ’s love, we become like Him, transformed by grace. Jesus reassures us that loving our enemies is not in vain: “Give, and it will be given to you.” (Luke 6:38) “Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37) The Lord adds one final, inescapable condition: “For the measure you give will be the measure you get back.” St. Cyprian warns that our sins will not be forgiven if we do not forgive the offenses others commit against us. The Golden Rule (Luke 6:31) is the foundation of Christian ethics. Jesus teaches that mercy is the towering rule of His kingdom and a mark of the children of God (Luke 6:35-36). Holiness under the Old Covenant meant separation from sin, but Jesus redefines holiness as active mercy, reaching out to others, rather than dividing people into camps of purity and impurity. How can we live out this radical love in our daily lives? Pray for those who hurt you. Instead of holding resentment, lift them up in prayer. Respond with kindness. A gentle word can break the cycle of hatred. Forgive as you have been forgiven. Remember how much God has forgiven you. Trust in God’s justice. Leave vengeance to the Lord and choose mercy. Give generously. Jesus promises that God will return to us abundantly when we give without counting the cost (Luke 6:38). Conclusion: Dear friends, loving our enemies is one of the hardest commands, but it is also one of the most powerful. It is the love of Christ that transforms the world. As we approach the Eucharist today, let us ask Jesus for the grace to love as He loves, to forgive as He forgives, and to live as true disciples in a world that desperately needs His mercy

The question of whether God always heals is one that many believers wrestle with. While Scripture affirms that God is our healer, we also see instances where healing does not come in the way we expect. Sometimes, God heals instantly, other times through medicine, and in some cases, He allows suffering for a greater purpose. Does God always heal? We know that God has the power to heal, and throughout Scripture, we see many instances of miraculous healing. Jesus cured the blind, made the lame walk, and even raised the dead. Yet, we also see times when healing does not take place. Why does God heal some but not others? The truth is, God’s ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). While He sometimes chooses to heal instantly, other times He allows suffering to remain for a greater purpose. St. Paul himself suffered from a “bodily ailment” while preaching (Galatians 4:13-14), and he even mentions leaving his companion Trophimus behind because he was too sick to travel (2 Timothy 4:20). Instead of promising a miraculous cure, Paul advised Timothy to take medicinal measures for his frequent stomach problems (1 Timothy 5:23). This reminds us that God’s plan for healing does not always involve immediate miracles. Healing happens according to His will (James 4:14-15). Sometimes it is instantaneous, and sometimes it unfolds gradually, as seen in the blind man of Bethsaida , who regained his sight in stages (Mark 8:22-26). When healing does not come, it does not mean that God is absent. Rather, He gives us the grace to endure suffering, unite it with Christ’s passion, and trust that His plan is ultimately for our good. Whether through a miracle, medical treatment, or inner strength, God always brings healing—just not always in the way we expect.