Religious News

The scapular: origin, meaning and spiritual instructions for use

The scapular is one of the best-known and most symbolically rich devotional objects in the Catholic tradition. Worn on the chest and back, it is at once a spiritual garment, a sign of covenant, and a constant reminder of the Christian's commitment to live under God's gaze, at the school of the Virgin Mary. Of the many scapulars in existence, that of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is the most widespread and the most steeped in history. Here is an in-depth look at the origin of the scapular, its theological significance, its link with Mary, and the right way to wear it. Read more...

The history of the Assumption

A mystery of faith and hopeThe Assumption is the dogma according to which the Virgin Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was raised body and soul into the glory of Heaven. This mystery is not recounted in the Bible, but it stems from a very ancient tradition, widely shared by Christians of both East and West.It expresses the Church's faith in the unique holiness of Mary, Mother of God, full of grace, preserved from sin and intimately united to her Son to the end. She is the first creature to know the fullness of the resurrection, the icon of the glorified Church.The dogma of the Assumption was proclaimed on 1 November 1950 by Pope Pius XII in the apostolic constitution Munificentissimus Deus. In it he solemnly affirmed that:"Mary, the Immaculate Mother of God, ever Virgin, after completing the course of her earthly life, was raised to heavenly glory in body and soul." Read more...

The story of the Transfiguration

A summit of lightThe Transfiguration is an event reported in the three Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 17, Mark 9, Luke 9). Jesus takes Peter, James and John with him and leads them away to a high mountain. There, before their eyes, he is transfigured: his face shines like the sun, his clothes become white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, talking with him.The apostles are amazed, dazzled, and frightened. Peter cries out:"Lord, it is good that we are here!"But already a luminous cloud envelops them, and a voice is heard:"This is my beloved Son, in whom I delight: listen to him!"Then everything returns to the way it was before. Jesus touches his disciples, reassures them, and asks them not to speak of this vision until after his resurrection. Read more...

The story of the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist

A mystery at the heart of the faithAmong all the treasures of the Catholic faith, there is one that passes understanding, and yet is offered to us every day: the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Not a symbol, not a memory, but Jesus Himself, alive and true, present in the consecrated bread. We did not invent this mystery: it is the very words of Christ, on the eve of His Passion, that reveal it to us with shocking clarity: "This is my body... This is my blood.". Read more...

The history of the 7 Christian values

Unchanging foundationsSince the origins of the Gospel, Christian values have shaped the lives of believers and inspired their day-to-day choices. More than just a moral code, they express God's call to live in truth, love and fidelity. These seven essential values are guidelines for building a life that is upright, fruitful and open to others. They are neither fixed nor abstract: they are embodied in our relationships, our decisions, our inner struggles. Read more...