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Discover the significance of the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, celebrating Jesus' dedication in the Temple. A feast of faith, obedience, and light, reminding us to trust in God’s plan and recognize Christ in our daily lives. The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord Introduction: After 40 days of Christmas, we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, an event that marks the moment when Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the Temple, fulfilling the requirements of the Jewish Law. This passage from Luke’s Gospel (2:22-38) provides profound insights into Jesus' identity, the faithfulness of His parents, and the prophetic revelations of Simeon and Anna. Let us reflect on its significance and what it teaches us in our daily walk with Christ. 1. Obedience and Humility: Mary and Joseph followed the Law of Moses by presenting Jesus in the Temple and offering the prescribed sacrifice. Though strictly speaking, Mary had no legal impurity to atone for. She nevertheless conformed herself to the Mosaic Law to avoid scandalizing others. Her submission was similar to that of Jesus, who was sinless yet received John's baptism of repentance (Mt 3:13-15). Their example teaches us that true humility is shown through obedience and a willingness to follow God's path, even when we may not fully understand it. 2. Trust in God’s Providence: Mary and Joseph could not afford a lamb for the offering and instead gave the sacrifice of the poor—two turtledoves. This reminds us that Jesus was born into a family that experienced financial struggle. Parents and caregivers facing difficulties in providing for their children can take comfort in knowing that even the Holy Family lived with material limitations. Yet, they trusted in God’s provision, showing us that faith is greater than material wealth and that God's grace sustains us in all circumstances. 3. Encountering Christ in Daily Life: Simeon and Anna recognized Jesus as the Messiah, though He was only a child. Their eyes were opened by faith, and they saw what others overlooked. In our lives, we are called to cultivate the same spiritual vision—to recognize Jesus in the ordinary, in the poor, the sick, and the lonely. Also, by seeking His presence in prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments, we deepen our relationship with Him and grow in faith, seeing His hand at work in all aspects of life. 4. Christ, the Light to the Nations: Simeon’s prayer, the Nunc Dimittis (in Latin "Now Dismiss"), declares that Jesus is a light to the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. This prophecy reminds us that Christ’s mission is for all people. The blessing of candles on this feast, also known as Candlemas, symbolizes this light. Just as a candle dispels darkness, Jesus illuminates our lives with truth and grace. As followers of Christ, we are also called to be light in the world, sharing the Gospel not only with words but through our actions of love, forgiveness, and service. 5. The Reality of Suffering and the Cross: Simeon prophesies that Jesus will be a sign of contradiction and that a sword will pierce Mary’s heart. This foreshadows the suffering of Christ and His mother. As Christians, we must be prepared for suffering, rejection, and opposition when we stand for truth. But just as Mary’s sorrow was part of God’s redemptive plan, our struggles, when united with Christ, have meaning and purpose. 6. Perseverance in Faith: Anna, an elderly prophetess, spent decades in the Temple worshiping, fasting, and praying. Her faithfulness was rewarded when she encountered the Messiah. In a world that seeks instant gratification, we are called to steadfastness in our faith. Instead of growing weary in prayer, we are invited to persist with trust, knowing that God reveals Himself in His perfect time. Through patience and devotion, we open our hearts to His grace and remain firm in hope, just as Anna did. Conclusion: The Feast of the Presentation is a call to deeper faith, trust, and perseverance. It invites us to see Christ in our daily lives, to be lights in the world, and to embrace both the joys and sufferings of our faith journey. Like Mary and Joseph, may we be faithful to God’s calling. Like Simeon and Anna, may we remain steadfast in hope. And like Jesus, may our lives be wholly dedicated to the Father. Amen.

"Get in touch with us! Reach out for inquiries, support, or to share your thoughts. Use our comments box to share your ideas, suggestions, or questions—we’d love to hear from you!" Contacts पता: ईमेल: अवर लेडी ऑफ फोरस्केन चर्च ब्लॉक नंबर 7 मालवानी कॉलोनी मलाड वेस्ट मुंबई 400095। vincentbrbz7@gmail.com एक सवाल है? कृपया नीचे दिए गए फॉर्म को भरें और हम जल्द ही आपसे संपर्क करेंगे नाम फ़ोन उपनाम ईमेल आपका संदेश अब भेजें सबमिट करने के लिए धन्यवाद!

Discover the inspiring testimony of Mrs. Benedicta Aaron, a remarkable journey of faith, hope, and healing. From battling a rare incurable disease to surviving against all odds, this powerful story highlights the miracles of prayer, unwavering family support, and divine grace over a decade. A Testimony of Faith, Hope, and Healing 1. The Crisis Begins (2015) In 2015, my wife, Mrs. Benedicta Aaron, aged 74, was admitted to Oscar Hospital in Malad (W), Mumbai, with a diagnosis of Dengue. Within a day, her condition deteriorated rapidly—high fever, severe swelling, and a critical decline in her health. Doctors at the hospital gave up hope, urging us to inform relatives as the situation seemed beyond recovery. 2. A Race Against Time My daughters, standing strong by their mother's side, refused to give up. They attempted to shift her to Lilavati Hospital, Bandra, but no beds were available. Despite multiple calls and desperate efforts, nothing seemed to work. In a moment of divine intervention, a Redemptorist priest stationed in North India provided the contact of Dr. Conrad Vas. Reaching Dr. Vas was a challenge, but my daughter Teresa’s persistence paid off after hours of waiting at Lilavati Hospital. Dr. Vas agreed to admit Benedicta at 7 PM. 3. A Critical Diagnosis Benedicta was immediately admitted to the ICU, where she remained for 10 days. After extensive tests, the doctors diagnosed her with a rare, incurable condition known as Cold Agglutinin Disease, characterized by the presence of antibodies that attack red blood cells. She was prescribed steroids (Prednisone) and weekly injections of Erythropoietin - 10000 units. Her condition required quarterly blood tests, conducted exclusively at Lilavati Hospital due to the need for immediate processing to prevent clotting. 4. A Life of Continuous Care Benedicta’s health has been a delicate balance. She suffers from chronic jaundice, managed with periodic other treatments. Her complete blood count (CBC) never rises above 10, and her platelet count fluctuates dangerously between 1 and 1.5. Her condition worsens in cold weather, causing her body to turn blue, necessitating constant thermal wear. Steroids have led to significant weight gain, masking her underlying weakness. Despite not being diabetic, she requires sugar tablets due to steroid-induced hyperglycemia. 5. Faith: The Anchor in the Storm While medical science provides support, it is unwavering faith that sustains us. Every day, I dedicate hours to prayer—the Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3 AM and 3 PM. I have entrusted Benedicta to Our Lady of the Forsaken, our parish patroness, and continuously ask Mother Mary to intercede with her Son, Jesus, to bless my wife with renewed strength. My plea has always been simple yet profound: "Lord, grant her just one drop of Your Precious Blood for new life." 6. Miracles Amidst Medical Battles Benedicta has faced near-death experiences multiple times, including three emergency ICU admissions due to dangerously high potassium levels and critically low blood counts. She underwent Bone Marrow Test and PET Scan. Every time she went to ICU, she was treated with different antibiotics injections. Yet, each time, she has returned from the brink. Her doctors, Dr. Conrad Vas (Senior Consultant Physician) and Dr. Abhay Bhave (Hematology-Oncology Specialist), acknowledge that her survival defies medical explanation. Their advice remains constant: "Stay in prayer and continue the treatment." 7. A Decade of Divine Grace (2015–2025) Now, ten years since her initial crisis, Benedicta remains in the loving hands of Jesus and Our Lady of Forsaken. Despite her fragile health, she continues to live, a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and perseverance. The doctors often remark, "You’ve touched the gates of heaven, but God has sent you back. Keep it up." 8. Conclusion: A Life Sustained by Love and Prayer Benedicta’s journey is not just a story of illness but a testament to divine intervention and the relentless spirit of a family bound by love and faith. Every challenge faced, every prayer whispered, and every tear shed has been a part of this miraculous journey. Her life is proof that with God, nothing is impossible. Arockiaraj Aaron (Husband of Benedicta) Parishioners of Our Lady of Forsaken Church Malwani, Malad (W), Mumbai Share your story If you are inspired by Benedicta's story, feel free to share your own story with us Email to us your story at: jy2025withvincent@gmail.com In this Jubilee Year let us share God's love and mercy by sharing our faith or vocation stories Leave a comment below to share anything that inspired you about Benedicta's Testimony comments debug टिप्पणियां एक टिप्पणी लिखें एक टिप्पणी लिखें Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

Called by God: My Journey to the Priesthood Experiencing God’s Love and Saying Yes to His Call Introduction: Family background and upbringing I am Fr. Vincent Barboza, a diocesan priest for the Archdiocese of Bombay. Born and raised in a traditional Catholic family in Mumbai, faith was the cornerstone of our household. The family rosary was a daily ritual, and Sunday Mass was non-negotiable, except in cases of illness. Despite being a devout Catholic, the thought of priesthood never crossed my mind. The Turning Point: God's Experience at the retreat Looking back, I can clearly see how God’s hand guided me, step by step, toward the priesthood. The journey began with a transformative experience at a Charismatic Retreat in Khandala, a serene hill station on the outskirts of Mumbai. The retreat was led by Frs. Rufus Pereira and James D’Souza. During one of my personal prayer moments, I stepped outside to connect with nature—breathing in the fresh air and listening to the melodious chirping of birds. With my Bible in hand, I prayed using Psalm 104, where the psalmist praises God for the splendor of His creation: "How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures." (Psalm 104:24) As I read, the psalmist’s words became my own. I felt an overwhelming sense of God’s love and presence. It was as if the words of Scripture came alive, speaking directly to my heart. This profound encounter with God in the midst of His creation has stayed with me ever since. Alongside this, I developed a deep love for the Eucharist. During Mass, I felt a tangible connection with God. By the end of the retreat, my relationship with the Lord had transformed—it was now real, personal, and alive.After this experience, I became more intentional about my spiritual life. Attending Mass and fulfilling my spiritual duties were no longer obligations but desires. I joined the parish Charismatic Prayer Group and became an active member of the church. Yet, even with this deepened faith, the idea of joining the seminary did not occur to me. Khandala Retreat Centre Sacred Heart Church, Bahrain Hearing God’s Call in Bahrain In 1991, an unexpected opportunity came my way: a job with a food supply company in Manama, Bahrain. My main concern was whether I could attend Mass, at least on Sundays, in a predominantly Muslim country. To my delight, Bahrain allowed Christians to practice their faith, and I soon became a regular at Sacred Heart Church in Manama—not just on Sundays but daily. Immersing myself in church activities, I joined the Charismatic Prayer Group, the Legion of Mary, and served as an usher at Masses.It was in this multicultural parish that I truly experienced the universality of the Church, where people from diverse nationalities and cultures came together to worship the same God. One day, during Mass, I felt a profound call to the priesthood. Immediately after Mass, I approached an elderly religious priest to share my experience. Much to my surprise, he gently curbed my enthusiasm and encouraged me to take my time for thoughtful discernment. Challenges: Struggles in discerning the call Returning to India in 1994, I became absorbed in work and set aside thoughts of a vocation. Then one day, an elderly couple visited me, and during our conversation, the topic of vocations arose. The woman recounted two cautionary stories: one of a man destined for priesthood who chose marriage and was unhappy, and another of a man called to married life who entered the seminary but found no peace. Her words struck a chord. I humbly shared my experience of God’s call in Bahrain, and she encouraged me to meet the seminary rector. Overcoming Family Challenges The rector Fr. Caesar D'Mello and seminary professors guided me through a process of discernment, ultimately confirming the authenticity of my call. When I informed my family, my father initially struggled with the idea. Being the youngest of four brothers and one sister, he had hoped I would stay close to him. However, after several heartfelt discussions, he gave me his blessing, and my family rallied around my decision. St. Pius X Seminary, Goregaon, Mumbai The Decision: Steps to join the seminary In 1996, at the age of 30, I entered St. Pius X Major Seminary. After eight years of formation, I was ordained a priest on April 17, 2004, by the late Ivan Cardinal Dias. Looking back, I can see how God orchestrated every step. He gave me a personal experience of His love, nurtured my devotion to the Eucharist, and prepared my heart to embrace the priesthood. Life as a priest and gratitude to God Now, after 20 years as a priest, I can confidently say that I made the right decision. Serving God and His people has given my life meaning and fulfillment. I am deeply grateful for the grace to respond to His call, despite the challenges along the way. My prayer is that other young men may also find the The Ordination of Fr. Vincent Barboza to say "yes" to God’s call and discover the joy it brings. To God be the glory! Fr. Vincent Barboza A Blessed Day: My Ordination to Priesthood Share Your Story If you are inspired by Fr. Vincent's vocation story, feel free to share your own story with us In this Jubilee Year let us share God's love and mercy by sharing our faith and vocation stories Email to us your story at: jy2025withvincent@gmail.com If you’re discerning your vocation, please contact us or to your parish priest for guidance or prayer. comments debug टिप्पणियां एक टिप्पणी लिखें एक टिप्पणी लिखें Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

Discover the powerful message of the Baptism of the Lord: how Jesus baptizes us with the Holy Spirit and fire, claims us as beloved children of God and ignites a passion for his mission in our lives Jesus Baptizes Us with the Holy Spirit and Fire Introduction Today, we reflect on a profound truth revealed by John the Baptist in Luke 3:16: Jesus is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit and fire. This isn’t just a theological concept—it’s a life-transforming reality for every Christian. When we were baptized , it wasn’t simply a human act performed by a priest. It was Jesus Himself who baptized us, filling us with the Holy Spirit and igniting a fire within us to live as children of God. Let us understand what it means to be baptized by Jesus. 1. Jesus as the Source of Our Baptism When John said, “I baptize you with water, but one who is more powerful than I is coming... He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire,” he acknowledged the limits of his ministry. John's baptism was symbolic, calling people to repentance. But Jesus' baptism is transformative, filling us with divine grace. When we say, "Jesus baptized me," we affirm that He is the one who gives life to our baptism. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus made it possible for us to be cleansed of sin and made new in the Spirit. The priest acts as an instrument, but Jesus is the one who truly baptizes. Question for reflection: Do we see our baptism (even though some of us were baptised as infant ) as a personal encounter with Jesus, who lovingly claimed us as His own? 2. Baptized with the Holy Spirit When Jesus baptizes us, He fills us with the Holy Spirit. This isn’t just a one-time event. It’s the beginning of a lifelong relationship with the Spirit who empowers, guides, and sanctifies us. The Holy Spirit equips us with gifts to live as disciples: wisdom, courage, faith, and love. The Spirit reminds us that we are never alone. Jesus is always present with us through the Spirit, walking with us in every trial and decision. Challenge: Are we open to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, or do we resist His promptings? 3. Baptized with Fire The "fire" John speaks of symbolizes purification and passion. When Jesus baptizes us, He refines us like gold in a furnace. He burns away what is sinful, selfish, or impure, so we can truly reflect His image. This fire is also the passion that fuels our love for God and neighbor. It drives us to live boldly for Christ, to serve the poor, forgive others, and proclaim the Gospel. Being baptized with fire means embracing a life that isn’t always comfortable but is deeply fulfilling and aligned with God’s purpose. Reflection : Are we allowing Jesus to refine us and reignite our passion for Him? 4. Affirmed as Beloved by the Father At His baptism, Jesus hears the voice of the Father saying, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you, I am well pleased” (Luke 3:22). This moment isn’t just about Jesus—it reflects the reality of our own baptism. When Jesus baptizes us, we are also claimed as beloved children of God. The Father’s words remind us that our identity doesn’t come from what we achieve, but from who we are: beloved sons and daughters of God. God looks at us with the same love He has for Jesus. We are His, and He is pleased with us—not because we are perfect, but because we are His children. Reflection: Do we live with the confidence of being God’s beloved, or do we seek affirmation in the world’s fleeting opinions? 5. Living Out Our Baptism Baptism isn’t just a ceremony or a memory; it’s a lifelong call. Parents and Godparents have great responsibility in helping the baptized person to live out the baptism. Jesus baptized us so we can share in His mission. We are called to: Live as children of God, knowing we are deeply loved. Be witnesses of Christ’s light in the world. Rely on the Holy Spirit daily for strength and guidance. When we embrace this call, we live as people who know they have been personally touched by Jesus. Conclusion As we reflect on the Baptism of the Lord, let us remember that Jesus didn’t just undergo baptism; He made it the foundation of our new life. He baptized us with the Holy Spirit and fire, transforming us into His beloved disciples. Let us remind us today with hearts rekindled by this truth: "Jesus baptized me." He claimed us, filled us with His Spirit, and ignited a fire within us to live for His glory. May we embrace this gift and live as His faithful followers every day. "Was Jesus baptized by immersion or pouring?" Read additional article on "Is Baptism by Immersion or Pouring?"

What are the documents needed before Marriage What are the Documents needed before Marriage? 1. Baptism Certificate (not older than 6 months) including entry regar ding Confirmation 2. Pre-Nuptial Enquiry Form duly filled (in the presence of a priest) 3. Results of Banns/Assurance of banns published (issued by a priest) 4. Oath of Free State (if for some reason Banns are not published) 5. Certificate of Freedom of State (issued by a priest saying that subject is free to marry) 6. Civil Certificate of Marriage, if civilly married 7. If widow or widower getting married: Death/Burial Certificate of the previous spouse 8. If a person is getting married after annulment: Marriage Certificate Church Certificate of Annulment/Dissolution Decree of Civil Divorce or Nullity 9. If the Marriage is between Catholic and Christian/Non-Christian Dispensation from Impediments/Permission for Marriage Proof of age/address and also an affidavit from Non-Christian Promises to be signed by the Catholic

Experience the power of the Healing Prayer of Surrender—letting go of fear, stress, and pain while trusting in God’s divine plan. Find peace, strength, and restoration through faith and surrender. 🙏✨ #HealingPrayer #Faith #Surrender Healing Prayer of Surrender Dear Lord Jesus, It is my will to surrender to you everything that I am and everything that I’m striving to be. I open the deepest recesses of my heart to you and invite your Holy Spirit to dwell inside of me. I offer you my life, heart, mind, body, soul, spirit, all my hopes, plans and dreams. I surrender to you my past, present and future problems, habits, character defects, attitudes, livelihood, resources, finances, medical coverage, occupation and all my relationships. I give you my health, disabilities, physical appearance, home, family, marriage, children, sexuality and friendships. I ask you to take Lordship over every aspect of my life. I surrender to you all my hurt, pain, worry, anxiety and fear, and I ask you to wash me clean. I release everything into your compassionate care. Help me, Lord. In your holy name I pray. Amen

Discover why Catholics pray to saints and how this practice is deeply rooted in Scripture and tradition. Learn about the communion of saints, their role as intercessors, and how asking for their prayers strengthens our faith and draws us closer to God. Why do Catholics pray to Saints? Is it biblical to ask the saints in heaven to pray for us? Catholics say yes, since we are all part of the communion of saints. As the word suggests, the communion of saints refers to the bond of unity among all believers, both living and dead, who are committed followers of Christ. In Christ, we are made part of God’s family (1 Tim 3:15), children of God (1 John 3:1), joint heirs with Christ (Rom 8:17), and partakers of the divine nature (2 Pet 1:4). This family communion of saints is known to Catholics as the Mystical Body of Christ. We are joined in a supernatural union as members of Christ’s own body, and thus as members of one another. Each of us participates in the divine life of Christ Himself. INTERCESSORY PRAYER What we have said about the communion of saints gives us the biblical reasons why Catholics ask the saints to intercede for them: (1) All Christians are members of Christ’s body and one another (Rom 12:5 and many others). (2) Jesus has only one body (Eph 4:4; Col 3:15). (3) Death cannot separate Christians from Christ or from one another (Rom 8:35-39). (4) Christians are bound in mutual love (Rom 12:10; 1 Thess 5:11; Gal 6:2). We are members of Christ’s one body, united in His divine life even beyond the grave, and concerned for each other’s salvation and growth in God’s family. In that union, we call for help and support from our older brothers and sisters who have already won their crown of glory. Just as in our human families we naturally turn to our siblings for aid and example, how much more should we turn to our supernatural family for help and inspiration. Several objections are directed against the Catholic position on intercessory prayer. OBJECTION 1: The saints are dead. Catholics practice necromancy, communication with the dead, which is condemned (Dt 18:10-11). Answer: Necromancy means summoning forth spirits from the shadowy underworld (OT “Sheol”), in order to converse with them. By asking the saints in heaven to intercede for us, Catholics are not conjuring roaming spirits or communicating in any “spiritualistic” way. So prayer to the saints has nothing to do with necromancy. Nor are the saints dead. The saints in heaven are alive and with God: “He is not God of the dead, but of the living” (Mk 12:26-27). In Mark 9:4, Jesus is seen conversing with Elijah and Moses. Jesus tells the Good Thief: “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise” (Lk 23:43). In fact, the saints in heaven are more alive than we are. They are free from all sin. They enjoy the fullness of God’s life-giving presence. Flooded with God’s love, they care more about us now than they did on earth. Just as Paul asked fellow believers (saints) to pray for him (Rom 15:30; Co14:3; 1 Thess 5:25; Eph 6:18-19; 2 Thess 3:1), now we can ask Paul and the other saints in heaven to pray for us. We are not cut off from each other at death, rather we are brought closer through the communion we share in Christ. We know that angels and saints place the prayers of the holy ones at God’s feet (Tob 12:12; Rev 5:8; Rev 8:3-4), supporting those prayers with their intercessions. The martyrs underneath the heavenly altar cry out for earthly vindication (Rev 6:9-11), showing they are aware of, and concerned with, earthly affairs. The angels and saints in heaven will intercede for us before the throne of God if they are petitioned in prayer. OBJECTION 2: 1 Tim 2:5 says there is one mediator between God and man. Isn’t prayer to the saints in violation of 1 Tim 2:5? Answer: I Tim 2:5 must be understood in the light of 1 Peter 2:5: “let yourselves be built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” St. Peter says that Christians share in the one, eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ. Jesus is mediator between God and man because of His priesthood. Therefore, to share in Christ’s priesthood means to share in His mediatorship, both in heaven and on earth. 1 Tim 2:5 confirms that we share in Christ’s mediation, when we read it in context. In verses 1-7, St. Paul asks Christians to participate in Christ’s unique mediation by offering prayers and intercessions for all men: “this is good and pleasing to God.” We are called to unite ourselves to the one mediator Christ, “who gave himself as a ransom for all,” by praying for all men, through Christ. Because Christians share in the priesthood of Christ, we share in a lesser and dependent way in His unique mediation, interceding for all men. Fellow Christians on earth intercede for each other in prayer without contradicting the unique mediation of Jesus Christ. Likewise, there is no contradiction of I Tim 2:5 if the saints in heaven intercede for us with their prayers. All prayer, whether in heaven or on earth, is in Christ and through Christ, our one mediator and high priest. The principle is this: although God alone possesses all perfections, we can participate in God’s perfections by sharing in His divine life. For example, the Bible says only God is good (Mk 10:18). Yet we can share in that absolute Goodness: “Well done, my good and faithful servant” (Mt 25:23). Jesus shares many of His unique roles with Christians in lesser ways. Jesus is the Creator of all things (Jn 1:3; Col 1:16-17), and yet He shares this role with men and women in procreation. Jesus is the only Shepherd (Jn 10:11-16), yet He delegates his role to St. Peter (Jn 21:1546) and later to others (Eph 4:11). Jesus is the eternal High Priest, mediating His once-for-all sacrifice for our redemption (Heb 3:1, 7:24, 9:12. 10:12), and yet Christians are also ca1led to join in Christ’s priesthood, as we have seen (1 Pet 2:5; Rev 1:6, 5:10). Obviously, Christ is the unique and primary Creator, Shepherd, and Priest, but each Christian participates in these roles in subordinate ways. By sharing Christ’s divine life, Christians also share in Christ’s role as the only mediator. OBJECTION 3: The saints in heaven can’t hear us. Answer: Why not? Aren’t they more alive now than when they were with us? The medium of communication is Christ himself - the vine between the branches. We and the saints form one communion, one body of Christ, being members of Him and members of one another. Heb 12:1 tells us that we are surrounded by “a cloud of witnesses.” How could those watching be unconcerned about our welfare? Look at Rev 5:8 and Rev 8:3. The petitions offered as incense to God must be for those who still need help, the holy ones on earth. They are offered by those who can help the most, the holy ones in heaven. In the parable of Lazarus and the rich man (Lk 16:19-30), the departed rich man is able to pray to Abraham and intercede for his brothers. This implies that there can be communication across the abyss, and that fraternal charity extends beyond the grave. We are certain that the saints in heaven enjoy the face to face vision of God (1 Cor. 13:12; 1 Jn 3:2). It is in this vision that they are aware of our prayers to them. OBJECTION 4: How can saints hear all these prayers, from all different people, all the time? It must sound like a deafening babble. Answer: Heaven has no space or time. Everything appears to God as one eternal present. Like God, the saints are outside of the limitations of space and time. Our earthly way of knowing is limited and incomplete. “At present, we see indistinctly, as in a mirror, but then face to face. At present I know partially; then 1 shall know fully, as 1 am fully known” (1 Cor 13:12). Our heavenly way of knowing is full and perfect.

True health is not just the absence of illness but a balance of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Here, you’ll find insights on holistic healing, the power of prayer, and the role of faith in health. Health and Well-being Christ, the Healer: A Life of Compassion Jesus’ ministry was one of healing, mercy, and compassion. He did not turn away those who were suffering but reached out to them with love and restored their dignity. The Gospels tell us, "He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed" (Acts 10:38). Whether curing the blind, cleansing lepers, or comforting the sorrowful, He showed that true healing is not just physical—it is also spiritual and emotional. His healing ministry continues today through the Sacraments of Healing - the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and the Anointing of the Sick - which bring forgiveness, strength, and grace to those in need. Additionally, every time we visit the sick, care for the suffering, or offer prayers for those in hospitals and homes, we continue Christ’s mission of healing and hope. Christ continues to heal today—not just through miracles, but through His Church, His sacraments, and the love we share with those who suffer. May this space be a source of strength, renewal, and encouragement for you. "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest." – Matthew 11:28

Jubilee Year Testimonies celebrate God’s grace and faithfulness in the lives of His people. Read inspiring stories of spiritual renewal, healing, and blessings in the lives of people.e. The Jubilee Year is the time to deepen our faith. Max Broadbent's Testimony A testimony of deep personal faith, suffering and transformation. This testimony beautifully illustrates how suffering, when united with Christ, can become a source of grace and transformation, ultimately softening the heart and deepening one's faith. Benedicta's Testimony From battling a rare incurable disease to surviving against all odds, the powerful story of Benedicta Aaron highlights the miracles of prayer, unwavering family support, and divine grace over a decade. Perpeth Fernandes' Testimony She shares how Jesus appeared in her dream and healed her of leg pain Tereza Worlikar's Testimony Vaibhav shares with us the miraculous healing of his mother. Jude Fernando's Testimony Discover an inspiring story of Jude Fernando, a Christian Leader from Chennai. Greta Pillai's Testimony Greta Pillai from Muscat shares with us her deep faith in God. Fr. Vincent's Vocation Story Fr. Vincent shares his vocation story which began in Bahrain and fully realized in Mumbai Jeanette D'Souza's Testimony Jeanette shares with us the gift of a miraculous baby

True health is not just the absence of disease but a state of complete physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. More and more we are realizing that we are not only physical but also spiritual. Prayer and faith does make a big difference in healing Health and Wellbeing True health is not just the absence of illness but a balance of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. More and more we are realizing the power of prayer, and the role of faith in the holistic healing of the person. Prayer and Medicine Prayer and medicine are not opposing forces but complementary pathways to healing. Studies show that faith, meditation, and spiritual practices helps in the healing better. Healing Prayers Explore the powerful Healing Prayers of Surrender, Forgiveness, Command and Isaiah 53. These are powerful prayer that brings emotional, spiritual, and even physical healing by claiming the promise of God that he wants to heal us totally Does God always heal? 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. Myth of Generational Curses Generational curses are lies of the evil one. The Scripture and Church teaching tell us that through our Baptism we are set free from original and personal sins by Jesus

SUNDAY REFLECTION The Baptism of the Lord The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord Jesus, the Lamb of God in the Mass The salt and the light Bring Alive the Word of God