We're already in Lent, having just celebrated Ash Wednesday, which is also the time when we prepare for Easter. In addition to Baptism, the Eucharist and Confirmation strengthen and complete our Christian identity. Confession simply involves confessing and acknowledging a person's sins, but it is perfected by the priest's absolution; such is the anointing of the sick, which is more perfect than the anointing with oil; in the sacrament of Holy Orders, there is the anointing with oil. The work of baptism consists in removing sin from the foundation, making each person a child of God and an heir of eternal life.

The seven sacraments: Baptism, the Eucharist and Confirmation, which are called sacraments for advancing and living the Christian life; confession and the anointing of the sick, which will be called sacraments of healing; order and marriage, both considered sacraments for the multiplication of the people of God, of commitment and in the service of communion and mission. The sacraments are divided into two main categories: the sacraments of the dead are baptism and penance; the sacraments of the living are the remaining sacraments. The sacrament of the Eucharist is the highest of the seven sacraments...

The seven sacraments are signs or symbols or mysteries" and signs according to the catechism. What is in the sacraments is God, and only He can act in them. The sacrament does not depend on the holiness of the person, but on God, linked to the faith of the giver and the receiver. Sacraments are meant to be lived out, and so those who receive them must show them to the community, demonstrating their Christian identity. Sacramentals are signs like images, whose vows...

 

Our God hates sin but loves sinners and wants them to repent. "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more" John 8:11. 2024 is a special year because it is dedicated to the Year of Prayer and leads up to the Great Jubilee of 2025, when the Son of God came to earth. He came for everyone without exception; he wants everyone to benefit from the salvation he has brought. The Catholic Church does not bless same-sex marriage, because this is not part of the Church's doctrine and it has not been said by the Pope. The Church is commanded by mercy and non-exclusion, to bless the faithful...

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 ...