Ignorance, Misunderstanding, Power, and the Crucifixion

April 2, 2024 By Laurika Nxumalo

“Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” – Luke 22:42 The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is a pivotal event in Christian theology and history, with deep theological, political, and social significance. There are several factors that contributed to Jesus’ crucifixion, each shedding light on the complex circumstances surrounding his death. To begin with, Jesus’ teachings and actions challenged the religious and political authorities of his time. He preached about... Read more

Walking Away From Surrogacy

March 14, 2024 By Laurika Nxumalo

On Monday, 8 January 2024, in his “state of the world” address where he addressed Vatican-accredited diplomats, Pope Francis called for the global ban of surrogacy calling it “deplorable”. For couples who struggling with infertility, they probably felt as if the Church does not see or feel their pain. However, that is not the case – as a Mother, the Church does recognize the pain of these couples. The Church empathizes with the couples in the Catechism of the Catholic... Read more

Love Does Not Judge

February 16, 2024 By Laurika Nxumalo

On Wednesday, 14 February, it was Valentine’s day, it was also Ash Wednesday, which marked the beginning of Lent for Christians. Love was celebrated in a peculiar way just like the LGBTQ+ community celebrates love in a peculiar way. The Catholic Church, often scrutinized for its stance on various social issues, including homosexuality, has faced accusations of being homophobic. However, it is essential to recognize that the Church’s teachings emphasize compassion, understanding, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their... Read more

All Souls’ Day – Praying for the Souls in Purgatory

November 3, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

All Souls’ Day, celebrated on November 2nd, is a significant observance in the Catholic Church. It is a day dedicated to honoring and praying for the souls of the departed, particularly those in Purgatory. This solemn occasion offers Catholics the opportunity to reflect on the concept of life after death, the communion of saints, and the importance of intercessory prayer. Historical Background The history of All Souls’ Day can be traced back to the early Christian tradition of commemorating the... Read more

All Saints’ Day – Remembering The Holy Men And Women

November 1, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

All Saints’ Day is observed every year on November 1st – it is a significant and revered day in the Catholic Church. This holy day of obligation is a time when Catholics around the world honor the saints, both known and unknown, who have dedicated their lives to living in accordance with God’s will. It is a day of reflection, veneration, and gratitude for the countless holy men and women who have set an example for the faithful. Historical Origins... Read more

Contemplating on the Mysteries of the Rosary

October 31, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

The rosary, a revered and timeless prayer in many religious traditions, serves as a sacred pathway for millions seeking solace, reflection, and connection with the divine.The mysteries of the rosary guide believers through meditative reflections on key moments in the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. Comprising joyful, sorrowful, glorious, and luminous episodes, these mysteries invite devotees into a spiritual journey, which offers a profound connection to the divine narrative. As beads are counted and prayers recited, the mysteries... Read more

Saint Catherine of Siena Teaches Us to Embrace Truth in the Face of Conflict

October 17, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

“We’ve had enough exhortations to be silent. Cry out with a thousand tongues – I see the world is rotten because of silence.” – Saint Catherine of Siena In a world filled with corruption and conflict, the pursuit of truth should be every nation’s mission. Saint Catherine of Siena, a timeless figure whose unwavering dedication to truth remains an inspiration to this day, teaches us the invaluable lesson of embracing truth even in the face of adversity. Born in the... Read more

The Broad Concept of Restorative Justice in Laudato Si’

September 26, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

In several countries around the world, their justice systems rarely show mercy towards incarcerated offenders. Rehabilitation measures and policies that exist within some justice systems oftentimes do not promote a healthy environment for offenders. In his encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis offers a deeper meaning and broader implications of restorative justice. Writings such as Laudato Si’ invite people to be responsible about the decisions they make and to base them on their personal experience of faith and civic ethics. Everyone... Read more

The ‘Yes’ of Mary and the ‘Yes’ of Joseph

September 22, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

The story of Mary and Joseph is one of the most fascinating accounts in the Bible, yet it remains shrouded in mystery. From ancient vows spoken in a humble village to the enduring lessons the world can glean from their journey, the timeless legacy of this couple is nothing short of extraordinary. In an era where relationships are often fleeting and the true meaning of commitment is often lost, their unwavering devotion serves as a beacon of hope. Jewish Background... Read more

From Secretary to Confidante: The Untold Story of Madre Pascalina Lehnert

June 20, 2023 By Laurika Nxumalo

In the world of the Catholic Church, there are many stories of noteworthy individuals whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the faith. One such individual was Madre Pascalina Lehnert, who served as the personal secretary to Pope Pius XII for over years. While her name may not be as well-known as some of the other key figures in the Church’s history, her story is both remarkable. From her early days as a young nun to her rise to... Read more