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.
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 Antรณnio 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. Niรฑo 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 parochialismโstrong 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.
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.
The Holy See has confirmed a second miracle attributed to Blessed Carlo Acutis, paving the way for his canonization. Carlo, who was beatified in 2020, has been an inspirational figure for young people, especially highlighted by Pope Francis in the apostolic exhortation โChristus vivitโ and the recent World Youth Day in Lisbon.
In “A Simple Lifestyle,” Fr. Fausto Gomez, OP, addresses the urgent need for simplicity in a world plagued by forced poverty and overconsumption. Highlighting the teachings of Jesus and the virtues of simplicity, sobriety, and frugality, Fr. Gomez calls for a lifestyle grounded in divine grace and characterized by humility, compassion, and ecological responsibility.
Fr. Eduardo Emilio Aguero reflects on the themes of life, death, and resurrection in the context of Jesus’ miracles of healing. He contrasts ancient Greek views on life and death with the Christian perspective that life is good and worth living. Sin and its consequences, including disease and death, arise from misused freedom. Yet, God’s mercy provides redemption through Jesus, who brings healing and new life.
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