On May 18, 2024, newly-discovered fragments of the d’Angers tapestry, depicting the Apocalypse of St. John, were unveiled. Originally commissioned in 1375, this masterpiece suffered severe damage during anti-Catholic persecutions but has now been partially restored. Found in Paris, these vibrant, well-preserved fragments highlight the tapestry’s exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance.
Ten months after the devastating attacks on Jaranwala’s Christian community, hostility lingers, affecting children’s education. The Cecil & Iris Chaudhry Foundation steps in with vital aid, from housing to psychological support. Meanwhile, fresh blasphemy accusations in Sargodha spark more violence, critically injuring Nazir Masih. As authorities and religious leaders demand thorough investigations and better protection, the call for justice and interfaith dialogue grows louder.
Fr. Franz Gassner, SVD, reflects on his journey from an Austrian farm to becoming a missionary priest in Macau. Through faith, studies, and global experiences, he discovered his vocation. Now an Associate Professor at the University of Saint Joseph, he emphasizes the Churchโs role in offering hope and unity across cultures.
In this Sunday gospel reflection, we learn the significance of the Eucharist, how bread and wine symbolize the fruits of human labor and God’s blessings. Work is a divine vocation, not a curse, allowing humans to participate in God’s creation. The Eucharist endows work with redemptive meaning, linking it to Jesus’ sacrifice. In the face of technological advancements, especially AI, this reflection calls for preserving the sacred value of labor and maintaining human dignity.
Saint Cyril of Alexandria played a pivotal role in affirming the doctrine that Mary is Theotokos (Mother of God). He opposed Nestorius, who argued that Mary was only Christotokos (Mother of Christ) and denied the unity of Jesus’ divine and human natures. Cyril’s efforts culminated in the Council of Ephesus in 431, which confirmed his teachings and condemned Nestorius’ views.
On Pentecost weekend, the Cathedral of the Nativity of Our Lady in Macau celebrated Confirmation for its Chinese, Portuguese, and English communities, led by Bishop Stephen Lee. This sacrament strengthens Catholics with the Holy Spirit to build up the Church and witness Christ. The celebrations underscored the importance of Confirmation in Christian initiation and its connection to the Eucharist.
In 1946, during Portugal’s 300th anniversary of consecration to the Immaculate Conception, three white doves stayed with the statue of Our Lady of Fatima throughout a grand procession from Fatima to Lisbon. They performed symbolic acts of adoration during Mass, representing faith, hope, and charity.
The annual procession honoring Our Lady of Fรกtima in Macau on May 13 featured a bilingual Mass by Bishop Stephen Lee and a candle-lit procession. This event commemorates Mary’s apparitions at Fรกtima, stressing the importance of sincere conversion and gratitude for God’s messages.
Father L. delves into the question of why Jesus prayed, highlighting that prayer is a profound communion with God. He emphasizes Jesus’ example of spending an entire night in prayer as a reflection of his perfect unity with the Father and the Holy Spirit. Father L. encourages readers to deepen their prayer lives, following Jesus’ example and seeking a continuous connection with God.
O Clarim director Fr. Eduardo Emilio Agรผero, SCJ, recently organized a mission trip to Cabo Verde, Africa, allowing young Catholics from Macau to engage in service projects, deepen their faith, and live out the Great Commission. This experience aims to inspire virtues like humility and compassion, strengthen their faith, and guide them in their spiritual journey and vocation discernment.