The nuns of the Association of Religious of Uganda (ARU) fight human trafficking, led by the Sisters of the Holy Cross, through awareness campaigns and commissions. Motivated by Catholic doctrine and biblical teachings, they emphasize human life’s value. In June, millions commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Ugandan martyrs’ canonization in Namugongo, highlighting the martyrs’ faith and the fight against human trafficking.
Aphraates, the “Persian Sage,” was a fourth-century Syriac Christian writer. His 23 homilies, or Demonstrations, focused on faith, charity, fasting, and prayer. Aphraates taught that true faith leads to sincere charity and that prayer should result in acts of kindness and forgiveness. He emphasized the importance of fasting in various forms and reinforced key Church teachings, including the Eucharist and penance.
In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus sends His disciples out “two by two” (Mk 6:7), highlighting the significance of companionship in spreading His message. This method not only ensures credibility but also fosters growth through mutual support and humility. Embracing the challenges of working with someone different, we learn to focus on the Gospel rather than personal success. Let us reflect on the grace and uneasiness of being sent together, always in need of repentance and conversion.
The Council of Episcopal Conferences of Latin America and the Caribbean (CELAM) has condemned the impact of drug trafficking on society, highlighting corruption, violence, and the destabilization of states. On the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the bishops called for life protection, human development, and financial system accountability.
St. Jerome, after his conversion in 366, dedicated himself to theological studies, learning Greek and Hebrew. He translated significant religious texts and became Pope Damasus’s secretary. After facing criticism, Jerome left Rome and settled in Bethlehem, continuing his scholarly work until his death in 420. His most notable contribution was translating the Bible into Latin, creating the Vulgate. Jerome emphasized the importance of understanding the original scriptures, famously teaching that “ignorance of the Scriptures is ignorance of Christ.”
The Church of St. Anthony in Macau, built in the 17th century and located at Santo António Square, is one of the city’s oldest and most important religious sites. Known as the patron saint of marriages and lost items, St. Anthony’s image graces the church, which is a popular wedding venue. His feast day on June 13th is celebrated with processions and high mass. The story of St. Anthony’s miraculous intercessions inspires locals to seek his aid in finding lost items and restoring faith.
On May 17, 2024, the Dehonian Priests celebrated 35 years in the Philippines. O Clarim interviewed Fr. Donald Longno, SCJ, and Fr. Rechie Gier, SCJ, who marked 20 years of religious profession, and the new regional superior, Fr. Niño Etulle, SCJ. They discussed community life, their charism of “love and reparation,” mission growth, international collaboration, and social apostolate. Fr. Etulle also addressed challenges in vocational ministry, emphasizing the importance of mental health and ongoing education.
In this Sunday’s Gospel (Mk 6:1-6), Jesus faces rejection in his hometown, illustrating “campanilismo” or parochialism—strong local identities that lead to close-mindedness. The Gospel challenges us to see beyond our limited notions of God, just as Jesus invited his townspeople to recognize his divine mission.
On the eve of the anniversary of the Korean War and the ‘Day of Prayer for Reconciliation and Unity of the Korean People’, Archbishop Peter Soon-taick Chung of Seoul calls for renewed commitment to peace and reconciliation. Despite growing hostility, the Church’s ongoing spiritual and material efforts emphasize the importance of not passing on hatred to future generations. Celebrated since 1965, this day remains crucial as inter-Korean relations face severe challenges, underscoring the need for dialogue, forgiveness, and unity.
Saint Jerome, born around 347 AD to a moderately wealthy Christian family, was educated in Rome, mastering Latin and Greek. Despite his intellectual pursuits, he indulged in the pleasures of Rome. Jerome’s temper and sarcastic tone often led to conflicts. However, inspired by his friend Bonosus, Jerome converted to Christianity and was baptized by Pope Liberius in 366. His journey highlights the transformative power of friendship and the importance of repentance.