Category: #faith

#faith

Pope Leo XIV Turns 70: Balancing Tradition and Change in the Vatican

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On Sunday, September 14, Pope Leo XIV celebrates his 70th birthday. Though he is a relative newcomer to the papal role, with only 132 days in office, his leadership has already sparked debate across the Catholic world.

Observers note that Leo differs from his predecessor, Pope Francis (2013–2025), in both style and approach. In August, he took extended retreats at Castel Gandolfo — a papal summer residence Francis avoided. His use of the ornate papal stole, a vestment rich with symbolism, has reinforced a more traditional image, drawing comparisons to Benedict XVI.

Leo is also preparing to move into the Apostolic Palace, the Vatican’s historic residence overlooking St. Peter’s Square, vacant since 2013 and extensively renovated for his arrival.

At the same time, Leo projects vitality and relatability. Stories from his former fitness trainer highlight his enthusiasm for sports, tennis, and his passion for the Chicago White Sox. Catholic theologian Benjamin Dahlke describes him as a “highly professional” leader, deliberate in speech and decision-making, much like an experienced executive.

While his appointment of bishops suggests a conservative leaning, Pope Leo has also shown openness to dialogue. He has voiced support for synodal processes that involve lay participation and even welcomed Fr. James Martin, SJ, a prominent LGBTQ+ Catholic pastor, to a private audience.

For many, it remains too early to predict the defining direction of Leo’s papacy. Yet his blend of tradition and openness hints at a leadership style both deeply rooted in heritage and attuned to the challenges of the modern Church.

As Pope Leo XIV turns 70, the Catholic world watches with keen interest to see how he will shape the future of the Church.

#faith

Our Lady of Home Gets ‘Spiritually Holy Welcomed’ in MLA Joshua De Souza House in Mapusa

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

In a heartfelt expression of devotion and tradition, Mapusa Constituency MLA Joshua De Souza  welcomed Our Lady of Home into his residence, marking a spiritually significant moment for his family and the broader Christian community in Goa. The visit is part of a long-standing tradition celebrated throughout the state, where the statue of the Blessed Mother moves from one home to another during the months leading to the New Year.

“I welcome Mother Mary into my home today, a moment that strengthens our faith and keeps alive a treasured tradition. It is truly a blessing to have our Blessed Mother visit every household, filling our lives with peace, grace, and protection. May her presence continue to bless our families and keep us steadfast in faith,” said MLA De Souza.

Known as the Queen of Home, Our Lady of Home is a symbol of unity, hope, and spiritual protection in Christian households. Referred to lovingly as the Mother of strengthening homes, she holds a special place in the hearts of Goan Catholics. Her presence is believed to bring calm, faith, and a renewed spiritual connection within families.

Each September, this sacred tradition begins as the image of Our Lady of Home makes its way across Christian households, a journey that continues until the arrival of the New Year. This act of devotion is not only a spiritual practice but also a means of bringing communities together, reviving bonds and reinforcing shared values of faith and family.

The visit of Our Lady of Home to MLA Joshua De Souza’s house signifies the role of public figures in upholding cultural and religious practices that define Goan identity. It also serves as a reminder of the strength that communities draw from shared traditions, especially in times when unity and peace are most needed.

As the Blessed Mother continues her journey through homes in Goa, her presence carries a universal message of hope, compassion, and unwavering faith.

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Grand Sarvajanik Lord Ganesh Idol Crafted in 48 Kilos of Pearls, Inspired by Kashi

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

The vibrant spirit of Ganesh Chaturthi took on an extraordinary form this year in Vasco, Goa, where the Shantaduga Kala and Krida Sangh unveiled a grand Sarvajanik idol of Lord Ganesh crafted entirely with 48 kilograms of pearls. Drawing deep inspiration from the holy city of Varanasi, also known as Kashi, the idol stood as a unique blend of spiritual symbolism and artistic excellence.

This year marks the 14th consecutive Ganesh Chaturthi celebration by the Sangh, a group that has made a name for itself in Goa for its consistent contributions to culture, sports, and drama. Their commitment and creativity continue to inspire and engage the local community and visitors alike. The beautifully adorned pandal, complementing the intricate pearl idol, became a focal point for large gatherings of devotees and tourists, who came to witness not just an idol but a symbol of cultural pride.

Founded over 50 years ago, the Shantaduga Kala and Krida Sangh have earned immense respect across the state for their dedication to preserving and celebrating Goan heritage. This year’s celebration has been a testament to their artistic vision and deep devotion. As the shimmering idol of Lord Ganesh stands tall, reflecting the light and hearts of all who come before it, it continues to leave a lasting impression — one of faith, art, and timeless tradition.

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Goa Faithful Venerate Relic of Saint Carlo Acutis in Cavelossim During Canonisation in Rome

Tanisha Cardozo

Cavelossim, Goa | September 8, 2025: As the Catholic Church celebrated the canonisation of Carlo Acutis in Rome on Sunday, hundreds of faithful gathered at Holy Cross Church in Cavelossim, Goa, to venerate a relic of the newly-declared saint—a strand of his hair preserved within a life-sized statue. The atmosphere in the church was deeply spiritual, as parishioners recited the Rosary and joined in collective prayer. Parish Priest Fr Ubaldo Fernandes described the occasion as “an extraordinary blessing for the community,” emphasizing the importance of such a moment for the faithful of the parish.

Carlo Acutis, who died in 2006 at the age of 15, was a modern teenager known for his love of technology, video games, and computer programming. Yet, it was his deep devotion to the Eucharist that defined his short but impactful life. He created an online database showcasing Eucharistic miracles from around the world, using his tech skills to bring the wonders of faith to a global audience. His beatification in 2020 and now canonisation in 2025 mark him as the Church’s first millennial saint, a powerful example for the digital generation.

The relic of Saint Carlo Acutis was brought to Goa by the Capuchin friars, who have been taking it on a pilgrimage across the state. After stops in Margao, Sinquerim, and Guirim, it reached Cavelossim, with its next scheduled location being Caranzalem. Alongside the relic, a travelling exhibition of Eucharistic miracles documented by Acutis is being displayed at each parish, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the depth of his faith and mission.

Fr Steve Rodrigues, Provincial of the Capuchins in Goa, shared with the media that Acutis represents “a true model of holiness in the digital age.” He emphasized how young people today can draw inspiration from Carlo’s example of using technology not for distraction, but for devotion. Acutis had a special bond with the Capuchin order, owing to his love for St Francis of Assisi. In fact, he chose to be buried in Assisi, where his remains now lie at the Sanctuary of the Spoliation.

The relic currently in Goa was brought from Italy by Fr Franky Fernandes, OFM Cap., about five years ago, with authorization from the Capuchin leadership. Its presence in Goa has touched hearts across the state, especially among the youth who see in Acutis a relatable figure who blended modern interests with deep spiritual conviction.

In other parts of Goa, the canonisation was also marked with special events. At St Anne’s Church in Agonda, the parish created a garden dedicated to Saint Carlo Acutis, featuring displays of Eucharistic miracles aimed at inspiring children and teenagers. Parish priest Fr Patrick Luis explained that this initiative seeks to encourage young people to grow closer to the Blessed Sacrament, following the example of the new saint.

For the people of Cavelossim, praying before the relic while the canonisation unfolded in Rome was a moment of profound connection with the universal Church. The celebrations were both solemn and joyful, as Goa joined the global Catholic community in welcoming its first millennial saint—a teenager who proves that sanctity is possible even in the midst of a digital world. Through his life and legacy, Saint Carlo Acutis continues to build bridges between timeless faith and the modern realities of young Catholics today.

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Pope Leo XIV Canonizes Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati Together in Historic Ceremony

Tanisha Cardozo

Pope Leo XIV presided over his first Ordinary Public Consistory on Friday morning, where he formally confirmed the canonizations of eight Blesseds. Among them were Carlo Acutis and Pier Giorgio Frassati, two widely beloved figures whose lives—though lived in different centuries—embodied a vibrant, youthful witness to faith.

Originally, Acutis was scheduled to be canonized during the Jubilee of Teenagers on April 27, while Frassati’s canonization was planned for August 3, the close of the Jubilee for Youth. Both events were postponed following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, which left their canonization dates in question.

That uncertainty ended when Pope Leo XIV announced the decision to canonize both young men together on September 7. The celebration drew widespread global attention, especially from the young faithful who had long looked up to Acutis—the first saint of the twenty-first century—and Frassati, whose early 20th-century life of charity and activism had already earned him the nickname “The Man of the Beatitudes.”

The ceremony reflected the Church’s recognition of the enduring impact of youth saints who lived out their faith in both ordinary and extraordinary ways. Carlo Acutis, known for his devotion to the Eucharist and skill in using technology for evangelization, and Pier Giorgio Frassati, celebrated for his joyful service to the poor and political engagement grounded in Gospel values, now stand together as saints for a new generation.

Pope Leo XIV also announced that seven more Blesseds would be canonized in October. Among them are Archbishop Ignatius Shoukrallah Maloyan, martyred during the Armenian Genocide in 1915, and Peter To Rot, a lay catechist from Papua New Guinea who was executed in 1945 for continuing Christian ministry under Japanese occupation. To Rot will become the first saint from Papua New Guinea.

Other future saints include Vincenza Maria Poloni, founder of the Sisters of Mercy of Verona; Maria del Monte Carmelo Rendiles, founder of the Servants of Jesus in Venezuela; and Maria Troncatti, a missionary with the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians.

Two laymen were also approved for canonization: Bartolo Longo, a former Satanist who became a devout Catholic and established the Marian Shrine at Pompeii, and Dr. José Gregorio Hernández Cisneros, a Venezuelan physician known for his generous service to the poor.

Together, these canonizations reflect Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to honoring a wide range of vocations and testimonies of faith—across eras, cultures, and walks of life.