February 21 — St Pierre Damien was born in Ravenne in 1007, he is the youngest of numerous siblings and from a modest family.

At the age of 28, Pierre Damien entered in the Camaldolese hermit monks, a branch of the Benedictines. Shortly afterwards he was appointed superior of the Generalate in Fonte Avellana. A calm and serious person, he also excelled in the art of poetry and his works were numerous. Because of his character, the Pope appointed him Cardinal-Bishop of Ostia. For six years Pierre Damien held the office of the legate, travelling between Italy, France and Germany for relations with Emperor Henry IV.

Even during his continuous travels, he didn't stop writing. In addition to the theological treatises, he fearlessly criticized in his writings the greed and impropriety of many priests. The most famous and controversial of his writings was the "Book of Gomore" which he published in 1049. Many of his verses and correspondences are preserved. On February 22, 1072, Pierre Damien died in Faenza, having accomplished his mission. His whole life and his works are living testimonies of the Gospel.

Diocese of Miarinarivo

Pope Francis has accepted the renunciation of the pastoral government of the Diocese of Miarinarivo, presented by H.E. Mgr Jean Claude Randrianarisoa. At the same time, the Supreme Pontiff has appointed H.E. Mgr Marie Fabien Raharilamboniaina, as Apostolic Admnistrator sede vacante et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis of the same Diocese.

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Love and Salvation

Christmas is a great joy, because it is the love of God that has come to us, proclaims Fr. Bizimana Innocent, Provincial Superior of the Salesians Don Bosco of Madagascar and Mauritius, presenting his Christmas greetings. Salvation is accomplished, so life is not in danger of disappearing. It is this love and this salvation that we wish to fill our life so that we have peace.

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Zatti, our brother

The short film "Zatti, our brother" (Argentina, 2020) focuses on one of the most difficult episodes of his life. We are in Viedma, in 1941: at the age of 60, Zatti is forced to leave the hospital he has attended for decades. His faith and strength are tested.

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