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Learn about the significance of baptism and its role in the Christian faith. Explore its meaning, purpose, and spiritual importance as a sacrament of initiation and a step toward a life of faith. What is Baptism? Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation and it is the sacrament of admission to the faith, bringing sanctifying grace to the person being baptized. In Catholicism the baptism of infants is the most common form, but unbaptized children or adults who wish to join the faith must also receive the sacrament. A person is to be baptized only once in their life, and the Catholic Church recognizes baptisms done by other mainline Christian Churches as valid. In the rite of baptism holy water is usually sprinkled or poured on the head by a priest who simultaneously invokes the Trinity with the words, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." The old self is said to die in the waters, and a new self emerges, mirroring the death and resurrection of Christ. Given that the sacrament is understood as a requirement for salvation , anyone, even non-baptized persons, can baptize someone as the situation requires. Infant Baptism To get your child baptised the couple have to undergo Pre-Baptism Catechesis if it is the first child. They have to register in the Parish Office, preferably in the early months of pregnancy. It is an ancient custom and also a requirement of Church law that each new Christian have at least one sponsor, traditionally called a godparent, who together with the parents presents an infant for baptism. A sponsor have to be practising Catholic who alongwith parents also helps the baptized person to lead a Christian life in keeping with baptism and to fulfill faithfully the obligations” of this new life. (Code of Canon Law, 872). The Catechesis is also for the God-parents. Adult Baptism Following the spread of Christianity in the first few generations after the resurrection of Jesus, the Catholic Church developed a process to prepare adults for entry into the Church through the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Communion (Eucharist). Today, the Church calls this process the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults or RCIA. Through this process, those who express interest in becoming Catholic are welcomed into a special community within the parish to learn about the teachings of Jesus and his Church. To get more information about Adult Baptism meet the priest of the parish. Catholic Church has two ways of administering the Baptism: Infant and Adult Baptism and both are valid. There are also in the Catholic Church Baptism by immersion and Baptism by pouring.

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

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.

At Cana, Jesus turned water into wine, revealing his divine glory and God's abundant grace. And Mary our spiritual mother tells us "Do whatever he tells you" The Wedding at Cana: A Revelation of Glory, Grace and Transformation My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, Last Sunday, we stood at the banks of the Jordan River, witnessing the profound moment when Jesus' mission was set in motion through His Baptism, marked by the Father’s declaration of love and identity. Today, we are invited to a joyful celebration—a wedding at Cana—where Jesus takes another significant step in revealing who He is. Through this first public miracle, He not only demonstrates His divine power but also offers a glimpse of the abundant grace that flows from Him. This event builds upon the theme of Epiphany, as Jesus progressively unveils His mission and glory to the world, moving from obedience to action, from promise to fulfillment. Let us reflect on the key moments of this passage and what they teach us about Jesus, His mission, and our response as His followers. 1. The Significance of Jesus’ Presence at the Wedding Jesus’ presence at the wedding in Cana is deeply significant. By attending this celebration, Jesus affirms the goodness of marriage as part of God’s design for humanity. More than that, His miraculous intervention at the wedding announces that marriage will now become an effective sign of His presence and His covenant with the Church. The Church sees Christian marriage as a sacrament, a living symbol of Christ’s love for His people. By being present at this wedding and performing His first miracle there, Jesus elevates marriage to a sacred union, filled with His grace and blessing. Practical Application: For married couples, see your marriage as a reflection of Christ’s love for the Church. Make your relationship a testimony of faith, love, and commitment. For all of us, honor and support the vocation of marriage, recognizing its significance in God’s plan for humanity. 2. The Role of Mary: Faith and Intercession Mary notices the need of the newlyweds—they have run out of wine. With simple confidence, she brings this need to Jesus. Her words to the servants, “Do whatever He tells you,” show her profound trust in Jesus’ ability to act, even though He initially says, “My hour has not come yet.” Mary’s role here is a powerful reminder of her place as our intercessor. She notices our needs and brings them to Jesus on our behalf. Like Mary, we are called to have faith that Jesus will act, even when the timing or the way He works is not immediately clear to us. Practical Application: Bring your worries and needs to Jesus through Mary’s intercession . Develop the habit of praying the Rosary, especially in moments of doubt or need. Trust in God’s timing. Like Mary, be patient and confident, knowing that Jesus will work for our good, even if we don’t see immediate results. 3. Jesus’ Address to Mary: “Woman” When Jesus calls Mary “Woman,” it may seem unusual, but it is actually a title of respect. John uses this title here at Cana and later at Calvary, linking the beginning and the end of Jesus’ ministry. This connection highlights Mary’s unique role in salvation history. John’s use of the term “Woman” also recalls the creation story, where Eve is referred to as “woman” and mother of all living but brought sin into the world through disobedience. Mary, as the new Eve, becomes the spiritual mother of all believers, fully cooperating in the mission of Christ. Through her “yes” to God, Mary becomes a vital part of God’s plan to bring salvation to the world. Practical Application: Reflect on Mary’s role as the new Eve and our spiritual mother. Turn to her for guidance and inspiration as you follow Christ. Recognize the significance of Jesus’ words, linking Mary’s role from the wedding at Cana to Calvary, and allow this connection to deepen your devotion to her. 4. The Transformative Power of Jesus The miracle of turning water into wine is not just an impressive act—it is a sign of transformation. Ordinary water becomes the finest wine. This miracle prefigures the new covenant in Jesus, where He transforms not only elements like water into wine but also our lives, filling them with His grace. The steward’s words, “You have kept the best wine until now,” remind us of the abundance and goodness of God’s gifts. Jesus doesn’t just meet our needs—He exceeds them, pouring out His grace in ways that surpass our expectations. Practical Application: Reflect on areas of your life where you feel like “the wine has run out”—your relationships, work, faith, or health. Invite Jesus into these areas, asking Him to transform them with His grace. Recognize the blessings in your life. Sometimes, we fail to notice the “best wine” God has given us because we are focused on what we lack. Cultivate gratitude. 5. The Revelation of Jesus’ Glory This miracle is described as the first of Jesus’ signs, where He “let His glory be seen, and His disciples believed in Him.” The disciples’ faith deepened as they witnessed this act of divine power. In the same way, Jesus continues to reveal His glory to us today—through the sacraments, Scripture, the Church, and even the ordinary moments of our lives. Like the disciples, we are invited to believe more strongly in Him and to share this faith with others. Practical Application: Pay attention to the ways Jesus reveals His glory in your life. It could be through answered prayers, moments of peace, or the love of those around you. Deepen your faith by spending time with the Word of God. The more we know Jesus, the more we recognize His presence and glory in our lives. Conclusion The wedding at Cana is not just a story from long ago. It is a living reminder of Jesus’ abundant grace, His power to transform, and His deep love for us. Let us take Mary’s advice to heart: “Do whatever He tells you.”May Jesus reveal His glory in your life, transform your water into wine, and strengthen your faith. Like the disciples, may we believe in Him more strongly and share His love with the world. Amen What is the Catholic understanding of marriage? How to Prepare for Marriage? What are the Documents needed before Marriage? Why Church-Issued Marriage Certificates Need Registrar Attestation? How to get attestation of a Church issued Marriage Certificate by a Christian Civil Registrar of marriages (Government of Maharashtra, India)

Bring Alive the Word of God is a journey to deepen our faith by immersing ourselves in Scripture. Discover how God’s Word speaks to us today, transforming hearts and lives. Through reflection, study, and practical application, we seek to make the Bible a living reality in our daily walk with Christ. BRING ALIVE THE WORD OF GOD TO BEAR FRUITS The gospel of John 1:1-3 says “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. …..and all things were made through him.” If the word is God who created everything, including us, then it would be appropriate to keep that word in our hearts like Mary. The fitting place for the word of God should be in the person’s heart, mind, spirit, and soul and not in the “book.” The book is just a container to collect the word of God to be used for future but it lies there dormant. The real container or vessel for God’s words is the human person where it should live and should come alive. The end product of the word of God should always be the human person to whom it was addressed. Relationship between the human person and human word To understand better the relationship between the word of God and the human person, it is worth looking at the relationship between the human person and the human word. As human beings, we are gifted with the speech of a word. We communicate with other human beings and sometimes with other living beings in words. We express ourselves and our feelings through words. These words are our extension which goes out into the world. The Power of Words We communicate with the outside world through our words, and it is a powerful force given to us by God who created us in his image and likeness. (Gen 1:26-27). Our words have power. It has the power to do good or evil, to break or build, and to make happy or sad. Both ways we can use this tool for the good or detriment of others and ourselves. Words from others in our daily life Words do matter to us. Words are used in our relationships in family, office, community, and everywhere. Our relationship depends on our words and the words of others. We love and appreciate a person who uses words of love, affection, concern, care, motivation, courage, praise, thanks etc. Good words are effective for the speedy recovery of those who are sick. Beside them we also need positive words to keep us motivated and healthy What the word of God says about the human word There are scriptures from the old and new testaments telling us about the power of the human word. The power of the word is given to us by God and we are responsible for it how we use it. The word of God warns us against the wrong use of our words. James in his letter says “tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire.” (Jam 3:5). The small member of our body, the tongue can cause great damage to others. We should always be careful with our words before we speak because we are accountable for words which can do good or harm to other. There is no doubt why Jesus said, “on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.”(Mt 12:36). It is we who are responsible for others' well-being and destruction. What the scientific community say about the power of human word What the word of God has said already in the Scripture about the power of human words, scientific studies now confirm it. Some of the studies show the power of words and their effect on physical and mental well-being. It shows that positive and negative words not only affect us on a deep psychological level, but they have a significant impact on the outcome of our lives. There are other scientific experiment that says our words affect things like water, plants and other living beings. The Power of the Spoken Word Human beings have always expressed words in oral and written form. But the oral or spoken word is more effective than the written word. In the spoken word we see the words lively and effective. This form is used very effectively by teachers, preachers, orators, politicians, salespersons and actors to communicate and convince listeners. If the person is a good speaker, it is more effective. The more you master this skill more you are effective. The Oral Word of God in the Scripture The oral tradition of the Scripture shows us the powerful impact of the oral word of God in the life of the church. The word of God first existed in the oral form. The written word of God is a record of the oral word of God for the future generation. In case of Jesus we see him speaking to his people orally. At the later stage, his spoken words were put down in writing for the benefit of his future followers. We see the wonderful thing about the oral word of God in the first four centuries of the church. The believers without the written word of God were more effective and powerful in converting people to the Lord than now with the whole written word of God in the Bible. The written word of God in the Bible came into existence at the end of the fourth century when the Church at the Council of Hippo (393) and Carthage (397) declared 73 books as inspired. The early believers had the good news in the oral form in their hearts and minds. Through these spoken words they performed powerfully wonders and miracles to draw more people to the Lord. How to bring alive the word of God to bear fruits in our life? If we need miracles to happen in our life, we need to bring alive the word of God from the Bible. This we do it by reading the word of God daily. By reading the Bible daily, we bring the words out from the Bible into our hearts, minds, spirits and souls. By reading the word of God we are shifting it from the written form into the oral form which was the original form of our Lord. As the liturgy of the word in the Mass is a preparation for the liturgy of the bread, similarly daily reading of the word of God in our personal life will be preparation for rest of the day. The word of God meditated by us remains in our hearts and minds like the early believers which will help us to face any challenges of the day. The reading of the word of God should always be accompanied by prayer as Vat II in Dei Verbum 21 says “we speak to him when we pray; we listen to him when we read the divine oracles.” Finally, do it as a daily exercise. Repeat some of the scripture passages which are comforting and edifying. When you feel low, the word of God will lift you. More than any human words, God’s word will be strong enough to motivate you. Instead of negative self-talk which keeps you back substitute it with the word of God which will help you to go through your day's journey. Do not allow anyone or anything around you to make you unhappy rather allow the Lord to make you happy for his words are very empowering to keep you happy.

The Healing Prayer of Command is a powerful prayer that calls upon the authority of Jesus Christ to command healing over sickness, pain, and affliction. Just as Jesus commanded healing in the Gospels, believers can pray with boldness, trusting in His divine authority to restore health and wholeness. Healing Prayer of Command Precious Lord Jesus, You came into the world to heal our infirmities and endure our sufferings. You went about healing all who were sick and bringing comfort to those in pain. By a simple command you rebuked Peter’s mother-in-law’s fever. You spoke directly to the illness, condemned it for its actions and commanded it to leave her body. In the same way, Lord, you have called all of your disciples to follow your example. You have given us power over all the works of the enemy and sent us forth to make disciples of all nations. In the healing tradition of the church, and through my obedience to your written Word, I hereby take authority over all forms of sickness and disease that have been attacking my body. In the name of Jesus, under the power and authority of the Lord God Almighty, I command all forms of demonic illness to leave my body now and go straight to the feet of Jesus Christ. Your assignment and influences are over. I rebuke all pain in the name of Jesus, and I command it to get out of my body right now. I rebuke all spirits of infirmity, nerve disorder, lung disorder, brain disorder, heart disease, AIDS, cancer, hypochondria, fatigue, anorexia, leukemia, arthritis, tumors, abnormal growths, diabetes and all other forms of sickness to leave my body now in the name of Jesus. Lord Jesus, I thank you for your healing power. I ask you to send forth your ministering, medical and surgical angels, to repair and restore any damage that was caused in my body by the presence of sin, sickness or demonically influenced infirmities. I ask that you send forth your Holy Spirit and fill me with your love, light, peace and joy. Come Holy Spirit and transform me into the child of God that you intended me to be. I pray in your Precious Holy Name. Amen

"Every moment is a call to repentance! On this Third Sunday of Lent, Jesus reminds us that every event in life—good or bad—invites us to turn back to God Every Moment is a Call to Repentance: Bearing Fruit in God's Time In today’s Gospel, Jesus takes current events—tragic, shocking events—and turns them into a lesson about repentance. He reminds us that suffering is not always a punishment for sin, but every event in life, whether joyful or painful, carries a message from God. St. Clement of Rome once wrote: “Going over all the stages of history again, we will see that in each era the Lord has given a chance to repent to anyone who wanted to convert to him.” (Ad Corinthios, 7,5) The question before us today is not about why tragedies happen, but how we respond to them. God continuously calls us back to Him, and He gives us the time and grace to bear fruit. 1. The Call to Repentance in Everyday Events In the first part of today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks about two tragic events: The Galileans whom Pilate had killed while they were offering sacrifices. The 18 people who died when the tower of Siloam collapsed. The common belief at the time was that these people must have been punished for their sins. But Jesus challenges this thinking and instead tells His listeners: "Unless you repent, you will all perish as they did.” (Luke 13:5) Jesus is not saying that suffering is meaningless. Instead, He is teaching us that every event in life—good or bad—is a moment to turn back to God. He is calling us to live every day as an opportunity for conversion because none of us knows the time or manner of our death. 2. The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree – A Second Chance To reinforce His point, Jesus gives us the parable of the barren fig tree: The fig tree represents the people of Israel—and by extension, all of us—who have been given everything needed to bear fruit. The vineyard represents God’s people. The owner of the vineyard is God, who expects fruitfulness from His creation. The vinedresser, pleading for more time, represents Jesus, who intercedes on our behalf, giving us time to repent and grow in holiness. Throughout the Old Testament, both the fig tree and the vineyard symbolize Israel when it fails to live up to God’s expectations (Jer 8:13; Joel 1:12). The fig tree appears healthy but is barren—just as the Temple in Jesus' time appeared to function properly but was spiritually empty. Jesus, as the vinedresser, asks for time, offering one last chance for conversion. But the warning remains: a time will come when opportunities run out. 3. The Responsibility to Bear Fruit While God is patient, He expects us to produce good works as evidence of our conversion. St. Columbanus teaches: “True love is more than good words: true love is good works.” (Instructiones, 11, 1-2) Repentance is not just about feeling sorry for our sins but actively changing our lives. A tree is judged by its fruit. So too, our faith must be visible in our actions. We bear fruit when we practice love, mercy, and justice, living according to God’s commandments. God does not desire the death of sinners but calls everyone to repentance (Ezekiel 33:11). However, grace must not be wasted—the time given to us is not infinite. We must use it wisely. 4. Practical Steps to Take This Lent Examine Our Hearts: Are we truly living as God’s children, or have we been spiritually complacent? Confession and Renewal: The sacrament of Reconciliation is a powerful way to respond to God’s call. Acts of Love and Charity: Our love for God must be seen in how we treat others. Daily Conversion: Every day is a new opportunity to turn back to God. Do not delay. Conclusion: God, in His infinite mercy, gives us time and opportunities to repent. Every event in our lives is a message from Him, calling us to holiness. But let us not waste this time. The fig tree was given a second chance, but not an unlimited number of chances. Let us, therefore, respond today, bearing good fruit in our lives. May this Lenten season be a true time of conversion and renewal.

Watch our collection of inspiring and engaging videos that bring faith, hope, and positivity to life. Explore meaningful content designed to uplift your spirit and strengthen your journey of faith. Sunday Mass Video Sunday Mass Video वीडियो चलाए शेयर करें पूरा चैनल यह वीडियो फेसबुक ट्वीटर प्रिंटेरेस्ट टम्ब्लर लिंक कॉपी करें लिंक कॉपी कर लिया गया Search videos वीडियो खोजें... अभी चल रहा है Sunday Mass 25 May 2025 6th Sunday of Easter 50:48 वीडियो चलाए For new Youtube videos on the topics of Catholic Faith

Discover the profound significance of the Eucharist, the source and summit of the Christian life. Learn about its meaning, spiritual nourishment, and the grace it brings through communion with Christ Eucharist: The Source and Summit of Christian Life The Eucharist, also known as Holy Communion, is the central sacrament of the Catholic Church. It is not just a ritual or a symbolic act but the true presence of Jesus Christ—His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity—under the appearances of bread and wine. Instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper, the Eucharist is the supreme act of worship and thanksgiving, drawing the faithful into intimate communion with Christ and one another. The Institution of the Eucharist The Eucharist was instituted by Jesus Christ on the night before His Passion and Death. During the Last Supper, He took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying, "This is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me." Likewise, He took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you" (Luke 22:19-20). This moment marked the beginning of the Church’s sacred tradition of celebrating the Eucharist. The Real Presence of Christ One of the greatest mysteries of the faith is the doctrine of transubstantiation, which teaches that, through the consecration by a validly ordained priest, the bread and wine truly become the Body and Blood of Christ. While their physical properties remain unchanged, their substance is transformed. The Eucharist is, therefore, not merely a sign but the actual presence of Jesus, who remains with His Church in this most profound way. The Eucharist as Sacrifice The Eucharist is also the re-presentation of Christ’s one sacrifice on the cross. Though Jesus' sacrifice was accomplished once for all, the Eucharistic celebration makes it present and effective for us today. Every Mass is both a commemoration of Christ’s Passion and a participation in His redeeming work. The Eucharist as Communion and Unity By receiving the Eucharist, the faithful enter into deeper communion with Christ and the Church. It unites believers as the Body of Christ, strengthening them to live out their faith in love and service. As St. Paul writes, "Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread" (1 Corinthians 10:17). The Eucharist and Eternal Life Jesus Himself declared, "Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you" (John 6:53). The Eucharist is our spiritual nourishment, sustaining us on our journey toward eternal life. It is a foretaste of the heavenly banquet, where we hope to be fully united with God in His Kingdom. The Eucharist and Christian Living Receiving the Eucharist is not just a private devotion; it calls us to mission. Nourished by Christ, we are sent forth to be His presence in the world. The Eucharist compels us to serve the poor, work for justice, and bring God’s love to those in need. Conclusion The Eucharist is truly the source and summit of Christian life. It is the greatest gift Christ has given to His Church—a gift of His very self. Through the Eucharist, we are drawn deeper into the mystery of God’s love, strengthened for our journey, and prepared for eternal life. May we always approach this sacrament with reverence, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to live as faithful disciples of Christ.

Discover the significance of Baptism in the Catholic Church, exploring the validity of both immersion and pouring Is Baptism by Immersion or Pouring? In the Catholic Church, baptism is not limited to immersion. Pouring water over the head is also a valid and commonly practiced method of administering this sacrament. While the word baptize originates from the Greek term baptizein, which means "to immerse," it is important to note that immersion is not the only meaning or practice associated with baptism. The Meaning of Baptizein The Bible reveals that the term baptizein has several meanings, depending on the context: Bathing: As in the story of Naaman being cleansed in the Jordan River (2 Kings 5:14). Washing: As seen in the Pharisees’ washing rituals (Luke 11:38). Being overwhelmed: For instance, being overwhelmed by trials or suffering (Luke 12:50). Spiritual transformation: As in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19), Paul's teachings on baptism (Romans 6:3), and Peter’s reference to baptism saving us (1 Peter 3:20-21). These varied meanings make it clear that baptism is not restricted to one single mode of application, such as immersion. Biblical Instances of Baptism The New Testament provides several examples where baptism was likely performed by pouring or sprinkling, rather than full immersion: Paul’s baptism: In the house of Judas on Straight Street (Acts 9:17-18). Cornelius and his household: Baptized by Peter within their home (Acts 10:47-48). The Philippian jailer: Baptized by Paul and Silas immediately, likely without access to a large body of water (Acts 16:33). Pentecost: Over 3,000 people were baptized in one day (Acts 2:41). Given the circumstances, pouring or sprinkling was the most practical approach. These examples demonstrate that the early Church did not mandate immersion as the only valid form of baptism. Practical Considerations It is also important to consider the practicality of baptism. Total immersion is not always possible. For example: Nomads or those living in arid regions may not have access to sufficient water. Eskimos in freezing climates cannot reasonably be immersed in water. The bedridden, the elderly, and the dying may be physically unable to undergo immersion. Should these individuals be denied the sacrament of baptism simply because immersion is impractical? Certainly not. Was Jesus Baptized by Immersion? Some people argue that Jesus was baptized by total immersion, citing Mark 1:10 and Matthew 3:16, which mention, "Jesus came up out of the water." However, interpreting this phrase as evidence of total immersion is speculative. The text does not explicitly describe Jesus being fully submerged. It could just as easily mean He stepped out of the water onto the riverbank after standing in shallow water. In fact, pouring water on the head is a powerful symbol of cleansing and washing, which aligns with the spiritual meaning of baptism. The Church’s Tradition From the day of Pentecost, the Catholic Church has faithfully celebrated and administered holy baptism according to both Scripture and its unbroken Tradition. The essential elements of baptism—water and the invocation of the Trinity ("in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit")—are what make it valid, regardless of whether it is performed by immersion or pouring. The Church recognizes that baptism is the normative gateway to God’s grace, incorporation into His family, and entry into the life of the Church. Whether by immersion or pouring, the sacrament remains an outward sign of the inner transformation brought about by God’s saving grace. Conclusion Baptism in the Catholic Church is a sacrament rich in meaning, rooted in Scripture and Tradition. Both immersion and pouring are valid methods of administration, reflecting the universality of this sacrament. Through baptism, we are cleansed of sin, welcomed into the Body of Christ, and sealed with the promise of eternal life. Let us celebrate the beauty and flexibility of this sacrament, which extends God’s grace to all, regardless of circumstance or location.

This Easter, discover how the Resurrection brings hope, healing, and purpose—even in a broken world. Jesus is alive, and He calls us to be his witnesses of his Resurrection. He Is Risen! Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia! There are moments in life that change everything in an instant. Easter morning is one of those moments. But John’s Gospel doesn't begin Easter with trumpets or angel choruses. It begins in the shadows. It begins "while it was still dark." And maybe that’s where Easter meets many of us today—in the dark. In the quiet spaces of grief, confusion, or searching. In moments when we’re not sure what comes next. 1. Mary Magdalene: Grief That Moves Toward Love Mary Magdalene comes to the tomb not expecting resurrection, but to grieve. She loved Jesus. And like any of us who have loved and lost, she shows up. Not to celebrate, but to mourn. And yet, even in grief, she moves toward Him. Sometimes, all we can do is show up. Even when faith feels weak. Even when answers seem far away. But Easter begins when love draws near—even in the dark. 2. The Empty Tomb: A Question, Not Yet an Answer Mary sees the stone rolled away and assumes the worst: "They have taken the Lord." She runs to Peter and the beloved disciple. They come running too. The beloved disciple arrives first but waits. Peter enters. They see the burial cloths. The body is gone. There’s no risen Jesus yet. No voices from heaven. Just an empty space. And yet, something begins to stir. John tells us: “He saw and believed.” He didn't understand it all—but something in that empty tomb whispered, this is not the end. Sometimes, faith begins not with clarity, but with curiosity. Not with all the answers, but with the courage to look again. 3. Faith That Rises Quietly Notice how gentle this resurrection is. There’s no thunder. No dramatic signs. Just a stone rolled away. Grave cloths folded with care. A silent absence that speaks volumes. Easter tells us that God doesn’t always shout to get our attention. Sometimes, He simply steps out of the tomb and waits for us to come looking. 4. We Are Easter People So what does this mean for us? It means we don’t need to have it all figured out to believe. It means that in the middle of our confusion, God is already at work. It means we can run toward the mystery—even if we don’t understand it yet. The Resurrection tells us: No stone is too heavy for God to move. No night is too dark for His light to shine. And no heart is too broken for love to rise again. Conclusion: Step Into the Empty Tomb Dear friends, Easter is not just about what happened then. It’s about what is still happening—now. Jesus is alive. And He is calling us, like He called Mary, Peter, and John, into the mystery of faith. So this morning, let us step into the empty tomb. Let us look again. Let us believe—not because we have all the answers, but because we’ve encountered the One who is greater than death. He is risen! He is truly risen! Alleluia! Watch The Resurrection: It's Meaning for Today's World

After 37 days in hospital, the Holy Father is back at the Vatican, showing remarkable improvement. He continues his recovery with rest, therapy, and limited public activity. Pope Francis' Recovery Journey: Steady Progress and a Spirit of Healing After spending 37 days at Gemelli Hospital, Pope Francis has now been back at the Vatican for a full week—and according to his doctors, he’s on the right path to recovery. On Saturday, March 29, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the surgeon who treated him, described the Pope’s condition as showing “a truly surprising improvement,” even calling him “very lively.” During a routine medical visit on March 26, Dr. Alfieri remarked, “If he doesn’t return to 100%, he’ll definitely reach 90% of what he was before.” The Pope’s voice continues to recover steadily, and he is now less dependent on supplemental oxygen—mainly using high-flow nasal cannulas at night when needed. His limited arm mobility, which was noticeable during his public appearance on March 23, is due to a pre-existing injury and not related to his hospitalization. Dr. Alfieri will continue weekly medical visits to monitor the Pope’s health. In the most recent update from the Holy See Press Office, released on Tuesday, April 1, Pope Francis' condition remains stable. Blood tests show normal results, and a recent chest X-ray indicates improvement in his pulmonary infection. Therapies continue, focusing on motor function, breathing, and voice rehabilitation. He remains active in spirit and work: sitting at his desk, concelebrating daily Mass in the chapel at Casa Santa Marta, and engaging with his closest collaborators. Despite the recovery, the Pope has been placed under a two-month period of rest and convalescence, meaning he will not be attending public events. The Office for Liturgical Celebrations confirmed that he will not preside over the Jubilee for the Sick on April 5–6; instead, Monsignor Rino Fisichella will lead in his place. Still, the Pope’s sense of humor and pastoral presence shine through. When Dr. Alfieri told him he had the mind of a 50- or 60-year-old, Pope Francis quipped, “Not 50—40!” In his Sunday message on March 30, Pope Francis offered a personal reflection: “Let us live this Lent, especially during the Jubilee, as a time of healing. I am also experiencing it this way, in soul and body. Frailty and illness unite us—but more importantly, we are united in the salvation Christ has given us.” As for Holy Week services and the Sunday Angelus, the Vatican has yet to confirm the Pope’s involvement. His homily for Mass on April 6 will be prepared by him but read aloud by Monsignor Fisichella. One thing is clear: while the Pope is physically healing, his spirit remains strong—ever determined to lead, even from a place of rest.