Life of the Saints

Saint Sylvie, patron saint of 5 November: history, life and prayer

Every year on 5 November, the Catholic Church honours Saint Sylvie of Rome, a woman of faith from the 6th century, known for being the mother of one of the greatest popes in history: Saint Gregory the Great. Read more...

Saint Charles Borromeo, the saint for 4 November: a model of faith, charity and devotion to God

Every year on 4 November, the Catholic Church celebrates Saint Charles Borromeo, Archbishop of Milan, a great reformer of the Church and an exceptional figure of Christian charity. This man of faith, who lived in the 16th century, devoted his life to prayer, religious teaching, the training of priests and helping the poorest of the poor. Read more...

Saint Martin de Porres, whose feast day is 3 November: a life of humility, charity and love for one’s neighbour

Every year on 3 November, the Catholic Church honours Saint Martin de Porres, a humble Dominican friar from Peru whose life remains an exceptional testimony to faith, compassion and Christian charity. Read more...

Jesus’ Eight Beatitudes: meaning and explanation of Matthew 5:1–12

What is true happiness according to Jesus? Is it possible to find inner peace amidst life’s trials, poverty, injustices and suffering? Through the Beatitudes, delivered during the famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus Christ reveals to us a vision of happiness that is profoundly different from that offered by the world. Read more...

Let the children come to me: understanding Jesus’ teaching (Mark 10:13–16)

Among the most tender and profound teachings of Jesus Christ, the one recorded in the Gospel according to Saint Mark, chapter 10, verses 13 to 16, holds a special place. In this moving scene, parents bring their children to Jesus so that He may bless them. But the disciples try to send them away, prompting an unexpected reaction from the Lord. Read more...