Franciscan Spirit
Understanding the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick used to be called “the Last Rites” or “Extreme Unction” because the usual recipient was a dying person. Many Catholics still carry cards or wear medals so that, if they are in an accident, a priest is called to administer the sacrament.
St. Francis and the Incarnation
Saint Francis of Assisi (1181–1226) was an enthusiastic champion of Christmas, the birthday of his leader and Lord.
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Story of the Sacred Heart
Devotion to the heart pierced on Calvary is nearly as old as Christianity, but it has undergone many changes over the centuries.
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St. Francis and the Cross of Christ
When we look at the mystery of Jesus, this evokes quite a different sense of the divine.
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Learning from St. Teresa of Calcutta
When she was declared a saint, did Mother Teresa strut around heaven and rub it in that she has been officially recognized whereas most of the other souls there have not? Unlikely. We formally recognize saints not for their benefit, but for ours.
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‘Thank God Ahead of Time’—A Look at Solanus Casey
Solanus’s struggle to find his place as a priest and member of the Capuchins followed him, in a sense, to his first assignment.
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St. Francis and the Feast of Pardon
The Feast of Pardon, as it is called in Italy, always attracts thousands of visitors and pilgrims to Assisi.
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