10 October - Born in Greece at the beginning of the 7th century, Ghislain comes from a Gallic or Belgian family. After studying literature in Athens, he joins the order which applies the rules of Saint Basil and is ordained a priest. He would have been the archbishop of Athens.

Ghislain lived in Rome to visit the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul. In 648, the Pope sent him to Belgium with Saint Lambert and Bellère, and in Maastricht he met and befriended Saint Amand. Ghislain wanted to live the life of a hermit. He lived by the riverside, where he had built a small house for his disciples and himself. He built a monastery in the town of Ursidongus. Ghislain's mission had a negative impact on Albert, bishop of Cambrai, and he was summoned and questioned: "I am Greek and Christian. I was born in Athens and I was born a second time through the baptism of Jesus Christ. I was in Rome, and by divine order I came to this city, Ursidongus, I worked with my hands and I wanted to build a place of worship in honour of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, asking your permission to continue". There, the Pope took Ghislain under his protection and his church was blessed with 653. Many followed Ghislain's spirituality, including the sisters Aldergonde and Waudru. Ghislain died in 658, and was buried in the church of the monastery he built, where he performed many miracles. His veneration began in the 9th century.

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.

Read more ...

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.

Read more ...

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.

Read more ...