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Discover the meaning of the Epiphany, the revelation of Christ to the world. Reflect on the journey of the wise men and how encountering Jesus calls for a change of heart and direction THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD On this Solemnity of the Epiphany, we reflect on the visit of the wise men to Baby Jesus. As per church tradition, these wise men were kings from the East who decided to look for the infant king who was born in Bethlehem. Without any Google Map or GPS, they reached their destination to adore Baby Jesus Without a GPS or Google Maps to help them, the wise men went to find Baby Jesus, relying instead on their faith in the star. They left their comfortable palaces behind in search of the King of All Rulers, who was born today in the manger. Although, they encountered several obstacles along the road, their desire to see Jesus made the journey simple and tolerable. Meeting and Adoring Baby Jesus The wise men reached their goal at last. When they arrived at the home and saw the baby lying there with his mother, Mary, they were overjoyed. They got their wish to see the baby Jesus. They were greeted at the home by his innocent baby gaze rather than words. It was a blessing for the earthly rulers to be in the presence of the Holy One, the Universal King. They bowed down and worshipped him. They humbled themselves before the Lord and submitted their kingship to the one and only King of all kings. Offering their gifts to Baby Jesus Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The gold for royalty represents Jesus' kingship; the frankincense used in worship represents Jesus' divinity; and the myrrh, a burial ointment, represents Jesus' humanity, particularly his passion and death. Returning home through another route They took a different path home after receiving a warning in a dream not to return to Herod. Although it would have been simpler for them to go back home via their original route, they obeyed God and chose a new route. Once more, without a GPS or Google map to direct them, they managed to safely make it back home thanks to his divine presence. TAKE AWAYS FROM THE VISIT OF WISE MEN TO BABY JESUS 1) To prepare ourselves in mind and heart to encounter Jesus Before we enter his house (church), we have a burning desire to see him and meet him. We prepare ourselves in mind and heart to meet him especially in the Eucharist. 2) To surrender ourselves to him when we meet him. When we meet him, in humility, we surrender to him our entire lives, our possessions, our families, our jobs, and our abilities. He owns everything that we possess. Through our worship in the Eucharist, we submit ourselves to the Creator. 3) To present him with a gift When we approach him, we do not come before him empty-handed. We bring something to him. Along with the bread and wine we also bring our individual praise, our thanksgiving, our struggles, our hardship, and also our sins. 4) To receive his blessings and return home through another route He welcomes us and doesn't send us away empty-handed. He blesses us and sends us home in a different way. Every encounter with him in the Mass changes us and we are told to take a new path, different from old path. In our new path, we are not alone. He walks with us through his guidance, grace, and strength. God bless you. Fr. Vincent Barboza

Celebrate the Jubilee Year by sharing your faith journey. Be inspired by St. Paul's conversion and discover the power of testimony to uplift, encourage and transform others lives . Your story matters! Your Story Matters: Why Sharing Your Faith Journey Is a Gift to Others Today, as we celebrate the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul, we are reminded of how one man’s testimony changed the course of history. St. Paul’s journey from being a persecutor of Christians to one of the most influential apostles is a story we continue to draw strength from. His boldness in sharing his conversion story, even before the Pharisees, inspires us to do the same in our lives. This Jubilee Year is a time of renewal, grace, and celebration—a time to testify. Just as St. Paul’s story of transformation became a beacon of hope, your own faith journey has the potential to inspire and uplift others. But you might wonder, “Why should I share my story? What difference will it make?” Let me assure you—your story, no matter how ordinary it may seem, has the power to transform lives. 1. Your Testimony Could Be Someone’s Answered Prayer There are people who feel lost, who wonder if God is truly listening, or if He cares. Hearing your story of faith—whether it’s a dramatic conversion like St. Paul’s or a quiet journey of trust—can be the reassurance they need. You may never fully realize the impact of your words, but rest assured, your testimony could be the sign someone has been waiting for. 2. It Brings Us Closer as a Community When we share our faith journeys, we create bonds of understanding and compassion. It’s in sharing our struggles, victories, and even doubts that we find common ground. Your story could encourage someone in your parish, your family, or even a stranger online to open up about their own experiences with God. 3. Sharing Deepens Your Faith When you sit down to reflect on your story, you’ll be surprised by how clearly you can see God’s hand in your life. It might be in the small blessings you overlooked, the challenges you overcame, or the peace you found in prayer. Sharing your story helps you not only understand your journey better but also trust in God’s ongoing plan for your life. 4. Testimonies Glorify God Every story of faith is a celebration of God’s mercy and love. By sharing your story, you’re giving glory to the One who has been with you through every high and low. Just like St. Paul’s conversion glorified Christ, so too does your story magnify His presence in our lives today. 5. It Breaks Down Walls Many people feel disconnected from the Church or think they’re not “holy enough” to belong. Your honest testimony can show them that faith isn’t about perfection—it’s about relationship. You can be the bridge that leads someone back to God simply by sharing your experience of His grace. 6. In a World of Many Beliefs, Your Story Can Lead Others to Christ We live in a world rich with diverse faiths and beliefs. Amid this diversity, your testimony has the potential to show others the love and truth of Jesus Christ. Sometimes, a personal story speaks louder than theological debates or doctrinal explanations. When people see the living Christ working in your life—through your joy, your transformation, or your peace—they are more open to taking their own step toward Him. Your story could be the bridge that helps someone encounter the Saviour. Jubilee Year: A Call to Testify This Jubilee Year is a time of grace, reflection, and celebration—a perfect opportunity to share your faith journey. It’s a moment to pause, recognize the ways God has worked in our lives, and let those blessings shine forth for others to see. On this special day, inspired by St. Paul’s courageous example, I invite you to take a step of faith and share your story. You don’t need to be a theologian or a poet—just be authentic and honest. Remember, St. Paul was far from perfect when God called him, yet through his imperfection, God worked miracles. And He can do the same through you. Never underestimate the power of your testimony. Someone out there is waiting to hear it. It could be a young person discerning their vocation, a parent struggling to hold on to their faith, or a friend lost in doubt. Your story could be the spark that ignites their hope and faith. Let us draw inspiration from St. Paul’s courage to testify and his unwavering faith. Together, let’s build a community where stories of faith inspire, encourage, and transform lives. In this Jubilee Year, let us be bold in sharing the love and mercy of Christ through our own journeys of faith. Share your story If you are inspired by above article, 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 above article comments debug टिप्पणियां एक टिप्पणी लिखें एक टिप्पणी लिखें अपने विचार साझा करें टिप्पणी करने वाले पहले व्यक्ति बनें।

What is Catholic Apologetics? Catholics Apologetics is a branch of Theology. The word Äpologetics comes from an ancient Greek word apologia , meaning to make a reasoned defence or justification of something. Apologetics means giving a reasoned explanation for the Faith. Apologetics is all about knowing why we believe what we believe. In the New Testament, the word apologia is found in many places such as Act 22:1, 1 Peter 3:15 etc. In Acts 22:1 St. Paul uses this term “apologia” to defend his new faith in Jesus Christ. In the early Church during persecution time Christians were challenged to explain their faith to pagans. This gave rise to the first group of Christian intellectuals who took on the task of explaining the faith to the pagans in a scholarly fashion and they were called the Greek Apologists. Among them was St. Justin the Martyr, the first Apologist. They were the first to explain the Christian doctrine rationally and in an intellectually satisfying guise. Yet they may be considered the founders of the science of Christian theology. The Apologetics in the Catholic Church down the centuries has taken a back seat. But this time more than any other time when we are bombarded by so much misinformation, this course in Apologetics is like God sent. In this course you learn why and what about the Catholic Faith using Scripture, the teaching of the Early Church Fathers, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and common sense.

"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

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 Leo's call for Fasting and Prayer for Peace On the occasion of the Feast of Mary, the Queen of Heaven and Earth, Pope is asking us to pray and fast for peace in the world Three Children arrive from Gaza for Treatment Church's humanitarian service Power of the Rosary Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist Christian Spaemann reveals how the rhythmic, meditative prayer of the Rosary promotes calm, emotional regulation, and a sense of inner peace. Pope Leo's Third General Audience Catechesis on the Parable of the Vinedressers Pope Leo's Second General Audience The Parable of the Good Samaritan Pope Leo XIV's First General Audience Message His Message on the Parable of the Sower Inter-religious dialogue Pope Leo XIV Calls for Unity and Fraternity in First Interreligious Audience Pope Leo Appoints first Woman Pope Leo XIV appoints Sr. Tiziana Merletti to Key Vatican Leadership Role Increase in searches for 'How to become Catholic' Online Searches for 'How to become Catholic" surges after Pope Francis' Death Show More

Discover the Catholic teaching on the Second Coming of Christ—a future event when Jesus will return in glory to judge the living and the dead. Learn about its biblical foundation, signs of His coming, and how we are called to prepare with faith and hope for His glorious return WHEN WILL JESUS' "SECOND COMING" WILL TAKE PLACE? THE FUNDAMENTALIST POSITION One of the five “fundamentals” affirmed in the twelve—volume work entitled “The Fundamentals” published in 1909 is the belief in the imminent second coming of Jesus Christ. The second coming of Christ will signal the end of the world. That is why the imminent end of the world is one of the prominent themes in the preaching of fundamentalists. They base their belief in what is called the “eschatological” discourse of Jesus (Mk ch.13, Mt ch.24, Lk ch.21). THE CATHOLIC POSITION The Catholic position concerning the time of the “second coming” of Jesus and of the end of the world may be expressed in 3 statements. I. JESUS WILL COME AGAIN That Jesus will “come again to judge the living and dead” is one of the primary truths of the Catholic Faith. Catholics confess this truth every time they profess the Nicene—Constantinople Creed or the shorter Apostles’ Creed during the eucharistic celebration. 2. BUT WE DO NOT KNOW WHEN JESUS WILL COME 2.1. No precise date is given by Jesus in the Gospels Fundamentalists claim that Jesus’ coming is imminent, that it is close at hand, round the corner; it will take place soon. They claim that this doctrine is taught in the New Testament, especially in the eschatological discourse (discourse on the end) of Jesus. Let us, therefore, turn to the eschatological discourse and see whether in this discourse Jesus really did teach that the end of the world is imminent. Let us study the discourse as in the Gospel according to Mark. (1) The discourse is a very complex one written in the apocalyptic literary form. To unravel its message, we must recognize that in the discourse Jesus alternates between r speaking of the end of the world and the end of Jerusalem. (a) 13:1—4: Introduction; (b) 13:5—13: end of the world. (c) 13:14—23: end of Jerusalem; (d) 13:24—27: end of the world; (e) 13:28—31: end of Jerusalem; (f) 13:32—36: end of the world; (g) 13:37: Conclusion. (2) In the passages on the end of the world, Jesus states that no one knows when the end will take place, not even he himself; this is something known only to the Father. “But of that day or that hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Mk 13:32), same saying is found in Mt 24:36. Since Jesus says that he himself does not know the date, it is reasonable to conclude that he leaves no room for further useless questions from his disciples. (3) But Mk 13:30 says, “Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away before all these things take place.” Does this verse not speak of an imminent end? No. (a) The verse appears in the passage on the end of Jerusalem and not on the end of the world. Truly, some of those who were listening to Jesus would be present when Jerusalem was destroyed in A.D.70. (b) The verse cannot refer to the end of the world, be cause if it did then Jesus’ words would be proved false, For the end of the world has not taken place till now, and that generation is long dead. 2.2 The “signs of the end” Fundamentalists consistently refer to certain “signs” that they find in the New Testament which they claim will announce or precede the end of the world. They find these “signs” not only in the eschatological discourse of Jesus but also in other texts of the New Testament, (1) What are the signs of the end? (a) In the eschatological discourse: * Wars and rumors of wars (Mk 13:7; Mt 24:6—7). * Earthquakes and famines (Mk 13:8). * Social disintegration (Mt 13:12; Mt 24:10). * Persecution of Christians (Mk 13:9—13; Mt 24:9—13). * Cosmic upheavals (Mk 13:24—25; Mt 24:29). (b) In other texts of the New Testament: * The preaching of the Gospel in the whole world (Mk 13:10; Mt 24:14). * The conversion of the nations and of the Jewish people (Rom 11:25—26). * The coming of the Antichrist and the departing from the true Faith (2 Thes 2:1—12). (2) Are the signs reliable indicators of the end of the world? Obviously not. (a) The signs mentioned in the eschatological discourse have been present in every century since the time of Jesus: wars, social disintegration, cosmic upheavals, resistance to the Gospel (anti-Christ), defections from the Faith. (b) The rest of the signs refer to a future that seems a long, long way off: * The preaching of the Gospel in the whole world: if we go by this sign, the end of the world is certainly not imminent, for if look at the present situation, a large portion of humans have not heard the Gospel. * The conversion of the nations and of the Jewish people: if this is a sign, then the end will certainly not take place in our lifetime, for there is no evidence of a world-wide turning to Jesus Christ. * The coming of the Antichrist and the departing from the true Faith: this sign is not special of our times, those who have opposed Christ and have abandoned the true Faith have, existed in all generations, as even a cursory reading of Church history will reveal. 2.3. Predictions of the end so far have proven false After the ascension of Jesus Christ, Christians in every generation and century have expected in vain the imminent second coming of Jesus Christ and the end of the world, (1) In the first century Christians, like Paul, believed that the second coming of Christ and the end of the world would take place during their lifetime. The letters of Paul to the Thessalonians clearly bears witness to this belief. In 1 Thessalonians written in A.D.52, Paul shared this apparently common belief (1 Thes 4:15). But his later letters reveal that he became reconciled to the fact that the second coming of Christ and the end of the world was not as imminent as he had previously thought! (1 Cor 15:23—24; Phil 3:20). (2) Since the first century till today Again and again in the history of the Church, there have arisen preachers/teachers who have announced the end of the world based on the “signs” which they found in the New Testament. And again and again, every one of such predictions has proved false. (a) Such predictions are the common themes of Christian fundamentalists in their preaching and in their writing. (b) Such predictions are the common themes of non— Christian fundamentalists, such as the Jehovah’s Witnesses. The most significant failed predictions of the Jehovah’s Witnesses have been for the years 1914 and 1975. 3. THEREFORE WE ARE TO BE ALWAYS READY FOR THE END OF THE WORLD (1) Seeing that we do not know when the world will come to an end, much less than that end is imminent, what is to be our attitude and behaviour between now and then? For an answer we must turn to the conclusion of the eschatological discourse. Let us consider Mk 13:33—37. The passage begins with, “Take heed, watch and pray” and concludes with “And what I say to you I say to all: Watch.” Four times does the word “watch” appear in the passage. What is this from the part of Jesus but a call that we are to be continually ready for the end. Readiness today — and every day becomes a today — means readiness for the end whenever that will be. “O that today you would hear his voice! Harden not your hearts…”(Ps 95:7b—8a). (2) Even though Paul and the first Christians believed that Jesus would come again during their lifetime, Paul’s teaching on the second coming and the end of the world does not go beyond the teaching of Jesus. In 1 Thes 5:1—11 the Apostle states that the day of Jesus’ second coming is uncertain, and therefore “let us keep awake and be sober.” CONCLUSION What must be our attitude and behaviour between now and then? (1) Do not be taken in by preachers, teachers, and writers who by clever but deceptive words lead naive people to believe that the “signs” spoken of in the New Testament are taking place today, and therefore the end of the world will occur any day now. Such evangelists are simply confidence-tricksters for they play upon the gullibility and the fears of people and, like all con-men, end up by relieving people of their money; they amass a fortune by the sale of their literature. Such doomsday prophets are clearly deceivers, because they claim to know when the end will be, something that Jesus himself admitted he did not know. (2) Hear the words of Jesus and not the words of these religious deceivers. Do not speculate a]out “signs”, and when the end of the world will occur. Rather, be ready for the end of the world today. Put your life in order today: your relationship to God and your relationship to others! If full world ends today, you will be ready! This is be to be free, indeed! (3) Practically and more importantly, the end of a person’s life - the moment of death — is the end of the world as far as that person is concerned. To be ready for the end of the world s to be ready for the end of one’s life at death!

Discover the Jesus'mission of bring Good News to the poor, freeing captives, restoring sight and lifting the oppressed in the year of Jubilee "Living the Mission: Embracing Jesus’ Call in the Jubilee Year Today, we reflect on a profound moment in the Gospel of Luke, where Jesus announces His mission to the world. In Luke 4:14-21, we read how Jesus, filled with the Spirit, returns to Galilee after His time in the wilderness. News of His teachings spreads like wildfire, and He is welcomed with admiration. When He enters the synagogue in Nazareth, His hometown, all eyes are on Him. He reads from the scroll of Isaiah and declares: “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” This moment is not just an announcement but an invitation—to recognize who Jesus is and what He came to do. Jesus’ Mission This passage reveals two profound truths: 1.It highlights the salvation God promises to His people. 2.It identifies Jesus as the one anointed by God to bring this salvation to life. In Jesus, the message and the messenger are one. He is the Good News. His words, His actions, and His very being embody the Good News. When Jesus speaks of liberation, healing, and hope, He is not describing a distant future. He is bringing that reality into the present. The Year of the Lord’s Favor When Jesus proclaims “the year of the Lord’s favor,” He refers to the Jubilee Year described in Leviticus 25. This was a sacred time observed every 50th year—a year of rest, restoration, and renewal. Debts were forgiven, slaves were freed, and land was returned to its original owners. But Jesus takes this concept further. He ushers in a new era—an age of grace and redemption that begins with Him and extends into eternity. This is not merely about social or economic restoration. It is about the deeper liberation of our souls.The Jubilee Year reminded God’s people of His provision and their call to live as a community of love and equality. Similarly, as we celebrate the Jubilee Year this year, it is an opportunity to reconnect with the redemption Christ offers. It reminds us of the mercy and freedom we are invited to experience, not only in this life but in the fullness of eternal life. Living the Mission Today Jesus’ mission speaks directly to our lives today. He calls us to: •Bring Good News to the Poor: Jesus’ mission begins with the poor. The poor are not just those lacking material wealth but also the spiritually impoverished, the marginalized, and those yearning for God’s presence. In a world where inequality persists, we are challenged to be bearers of good news—to share resources, offer compassion, and affirm the dignity of every person. •Release to the Captives: Jesus speaks of freedom from all that binds us—sin, fear, addiction, and oppression. In the Jubilee spirit, we are called to break chains, advocate for justice, and stand with those who are voiceless. •Restore Sight to the Blind: This refers not only to physical healing but also to spiritual awakening. Many are blinded by pride, greed, or despair. Jesus restores sight, allowing us to see God’s truth and love. Let us open our eyes to the needs of our brothers and sisters and to God’s presence in our lives. •Freedom to the Oppressed: Jesus identifies with the oppressed and lifts them up. In our communities, there are many who feel crushed by life’s burdens. We are called to be instruments of encouragement and hope, reflecting the compassion of Christ. •Proclaiming the Year of the Lord’s Favor: The Jubilee is a time to realign our lives with God’s will. Jesus proclaims that God’s favor is here and now. This is a call to repentance, renewal, and action. Conclusion “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” These words challenge us to recognize that the salvation Jesus offers is here and now. As we walk through this Jubilee Year, let us embrace His mission as our own. Let us be bearers of good news, agents of freedom, and witnesses to God’s unending mercy. May our lives proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.

Learn how to make a meaningful confession with our step-by-step guide. Discover tips for preparation, examination of conscience, and embracing God’s forgiveness through this sacrament HOW TO MAKE CONFESSION BEFORE GOING TO CONFESSION 1. Pray. Ask God to give you the grace to make a good confession. 2. Examine your conscience. Reflect on your life, trying to recall all the times you sinned against God since your last confession. Use an Examination of Conscience to help you. 3. Be truly sorry for your sins. 4. Make the resolution to avoid committing these sins in the future. DURING THE CONFESSION Confession begins with the: (1) Sign of the Cross and the penitent greeting the priest with the words (2) “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. My last confession was ….” (weeks, months, years). (3) The penitent confesses sins to the priest, who stands in the name of Christ and the Church. The priest will help you make a good confession. If you are unsure or uneasy, ask the priest to help. Place your trust in God, a merciful Father who wants to forgive you. Following the confession of sins, say (4) “This is all I can remember. I am sorry for these and all my sins.” (5) The priest will assign you a penance. The penance takes into account your personal situation and supports your spiritual good. It may be a prayer, an offering, works of mercy, service, or sacrifice; whatever the penance, the individual is joined in some way to Christ and the cross. (6) The penitent will then pray an Act of Contrition prayer. This prayer expresses true sorrow for the sins confessed. This prayer may be expressed in one’s own words or one may use one of the formal prayers of sorrow. The priest, acting in the person of Christ, will absolve you from your sins by saying the prayer of (7) Absolution. As the prayer is ending, the penitent makes the (8) Sign of the Cross and responds, “Amen.” (9) The priest will express some words of praise and blessing. (10) The penitent leaves, completing the assigned penance. An Act of Contrition Prayer My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help to do penance,to sin no more,and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us.In his name, my God, have mercy. AFTER CONFESSION 1. Say a prayer of thanksgiving. Give thanks to God for the gift of his infinite mercy and for the sacrament you have just received. 2. Do your penance. It is advisable that you do your penance as soon as possible so that you will not forget to do it.

In the Mass, during Communion Rite we recite "Lamb of God"four times. Why this title used for Jesus during the Mass? In this article you will read some of the reasons for using this title for Jesus. JESUS, THE LAMB OF GOD IN THE MASS At every Mass during the Communion Rite, we say three times, "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world." And then again the Priest raises the eucharistic species and says aloud: ‘’Behold the Lamb of God; behold him who takes away the sins of the world.’’ In less than a minute, we say four times, "Lamb of God.” Why is this title "Lamb of God" important enough to be mentioned here in the Communion Rite of the Mass? It is for two reasons: 1) The Eucharist is a meal, but it is also a sacrifice of the Lamb, who is Jesus Christ, and 2) The title "Lamb of God" has the connotation of sacrifice from the Old Testament. 1) Eucharist as both a Meal and a Sacrifice The Eucharist is both a meal and the sacrifice of Jesus. It is to emphasise the sacrificial and salvific dimension of the Eucharist. The sacrificed body of Jesus Christ, the lamb sacrificed for our sins, is given to us as nourishment in the Eucharist. It combines the Eucharistic meal and sacrifice dimensions. In this way, Jesus Christ makes of Himself a sacrificed body to be eaten in the Eucharist. 2. The significance of the title 'Lamb of God' in the Scriptures To get a better understanding of the title Lamb of God, we must see the Scriptures. In the entire New Testament, Jesus is called the Lamb of God only in the Gospel of John and in the Book of Revelation. In the Gospel of John, it is mentioned twice. It is John the Baptist who addresses Jesus with this title, and it is from here the phrase is borrowed in the Mass. And in the Book of Revelation, it is mentioned 28 times. No other title except this one is mentioned 28 times in the Book of Revelation. When John used the title "Lamb of God" for Jesus, the Jewish people understood instantly because of the sacrifices of the Old Testament, particularly the Sacrifice of Passover. At the Passover, the blood of a lamb protected the faithful Israelites from the Angel of Death. For John, Jesus is now the Lamb of the New Passover. He is truly the Lamb of God. To this title, John adds the universality of the purpose: "Who takes away the sins of the world," and not alone of Israel. Later, in Isaiah 53:7, the prophet Isaiah used this image of the lamb to describe the Messiah. The Messiah would be both the sacrificial lamb to atone for sin and the suffering servant. John identifies Jesus as "the lamb of God" in the sense of both the sacrificial offering for sin and the suffering servant. Interestingly, when speaking to the Ethiopian eunuch, who was reading this same passage from Isaiah, St. Philip explained how it referred to Christ and how He fulfilled it (Acts 8:26ff). In St. John's gospel, Jesus was condemned to death by Pilate on the preparation day for Passover at noon (Jn 18:28, 19:14), the hour when the priests began to slaughter Passover lambs in the temple. Also, the Gospel records that after the crucifixion, the soldiers did not break any of Jesus' bones in fulfilment of Scripture in the Old Testament where none of the Passover lamb's bones were broken. But the soldier thrust forward his lance, piercing the heart of our Lord; out flowed blood and water (Jn 19:34), always interpreted as signs of the life-giving sacraments of Holy Eucharist and Baptism. In the book of Revelation, the Lamb of God used for Jesus is mentioned 28 times. John sees in the vision of heaven Jesus as the Lamb in the liturgical worship of the heavenly assembly. He is the Passover Lamb of the New Covenant. This image of the Lamb of God in the Book of Revelation is one of victory. It is highlighting this notion by picturing the Lamb surrounded by angels, the "living creatures," and elders, who cried out, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches, wisdom and strength, honour and glory, and praise!" (Rev 5:12) Invitation to “Behold” In the Communion Rite, when the Priest invites people to partake of the meal, he says, "Behold." To look and really see who Jesus Christ is and what his Paschal Mystery is all about, behold the man! Look at the wood of the cross, where our Savior is hung! Also, it is a reminder of Jesus’ invitation in the Book of Revelation: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. I'll come in and eat with him if anyone hears my voice and opens the door." And then the Priest adds the words, "Blessed are those who are called to his supper." He is saying, according to the Apocalypse, "Blessed are those who have been called to the wedding feast of the Lamb." (cf. Apoc. 19:1–9) The faithful then reply with the words of the Roman centurion, who was awestruck by Christ’s humility and daring trust: "Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say a word and I shall be healed." (Mt. 8:8-10) May this understanding of the title Lamb of God help us to enter into deeper communion with the Lord and help us to focus on the Lamb who suffered, died, and rose for our salvation. As we gather around the altar of the Lamb, offering to Him our own hearts and pledging to be His servants, we may welcome him and become wedded to him in the Holy Eucharist. God bless you. Fr. Vincent Barboza

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 अपने विचार साझा करें टिप्पणी करने वाले पहले व्यक्ति बनें।

Discover the inspiring work of Fr. Vincent Barboza, a Catholic Priest from Mumbai, dedicated to faith, service and sharing God's love. About Fr. Vincent Barboza Fr. Vincent Barboza is a Catholic priest from the Archdiocese of Bombay, currently serving in the Diocese of Christchurch, New Zealand. Raised in Mumbai, India, with roots in Mangalore, Karnataka, Fr. Vincent brings a rich blend of cultural heritage, spiritual dedication, and pastoral care to his ministry. Pastoral Ministry With over two decades of priestly service, Fr. Vincent has ministered to diverse parishes, focusing on nurturing faith communities through the sacraments, pastoral care, and faith-based programs. His pastoral assignments have included roles in Mumbai, New Zealand, and beyond, where he has passionately worked to build communities rooted in Christ. Faith Formation and Outreach Programmes Fr. Vincent is dedicated to empowering individuals to grow in their faith and live a Christ-centered life through: Faith Education: Courses on Catholic Evangelization, Apologetics and Theology. Spiritual Renewal: Retreats and seminars for personal and communal growth. Sacramental Guidance: Resources and teachings to deepen understanding of the sacraments. Youth Engagement: Programmes like spiritual sessions, value education, prayer methods and memory techniques for school students. Community Outreach: Providing theological insights and spiritual resources for individuals and groups, such as workshops for different communities on life skill and faith, visits to hospitals, rest homes, retired villages to offer spiritual support and sacraments and organizing charitable drives for food, clothing and education supplies. A Call to Serve Rooted in the Gospel call to be “the salt of the earth and light of the world” (Mt 5:13-16), Fr. Vincent’s ministry is dedicated to leading people closer to God through faith education, spiritual enrichment, and sacramental life. His mission is to inspire, guide, and walk alongside individuals on their journey toward Christ. Discover More Explore his vocation story , weekly reflections, inspiring testimonies, faith-filled videos and thoughtful blogs to engage more deeply with the Catholic faith and its teachings.

Pope Francis’ Voice Heard in St. Peter’s Square: A Message of Gratitude On the evening of Thursday, March 6, at the start of the Rosary prayer in St. Peter’s Square around 9 p.m., the voice of Pope Francis was broadcast to those gathered. Speaking with a noticeably weakened voice, the Holy Father expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the prayers offered for his health. “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health. From the Square, I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you,” the Pope said. His words, despite his ongoing health struggles, served as a touching moment of connection with the faithful, reaffirming his spiritual presence even from the hospital. In an update on March 5, the Vatican confirmed that the Pope has not experienced any new episodes of respiratory distress and continues to follow his prescribed treatment plan. Throughout the day, he received high-flow oxygen therapy, with doctors set to resume non-invasive mechanical ventilation overnight. His respiratory and motor physiotherapy sessions have also been increased, indicating continued efforts to aid his recovery. Despite these improvements, Vatican officials remain cautious, emphasizing that his prognosis is still uncertain due to the complexity of his condition. With the beginning of Lent marked by Ash Wednesday, Pope Francis was unable to preside over the ceremony in Rome as planned. However, he participated in a private blessing of the ashes from his apartment on the 10th floor of the hospital. A celebrant imposed the ashes on him, after which he received the Eucharist. Despite ongoing medical treatment, the Pope has remained engaged with his duties, dedicating time to work following the blessing. According to the Vatican, his pneumonia is progressing as expected under treatment, and he has not experienced any seizures in the past two days—an encouraging sign. However, doctors stress that a full evaluation of his recovery will take more time. While the Pope’s condition is improving, the Vatican continues to monitor him closely as he undergoes treatment.