#faith

Pope Leo XIV Calls for ‘Fasting from Harmful Words’ in 2026 Lenten Message


Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral 

In a powerful appeal through his 2026 Lenten message, Pope Leo XIV has called on Catholics to “disarm” their language by fasting from words that wound, stressing that true repentance must transform not only individual hearts but also relationships.


Ahead of Ash Wednesday on February 18, the Holy Father described Lent as a sacred time to place “the mystery of God back at the center of our lives.” He encouraged the faithful to renew their faith amid the anxieties and distractions of daily living by turning attentively to God’s word and to one another.

Fasting from Harmful Speech
Highlighting the spiritual discipline of fasting, the Pope described it as an “ancient ascetic practice” essential to conversion. However, he emphasized that fasting must be lived in humility and in communion with the Lord. Beyond abstaining from food, he urged Catholics to fast from language that harms, divides, or diminishes others, allowing Scripture to awaken compassion for those who suffer.

A Communal Journey of Renewal
The Pope also underscored the communal dimension of Lent, noting that Scripture often presents fasting and listening as shared acts of renewal for the people of God. He invited the faithful to journey together through prayer, charity, and attentive listening , strengthening bonds within families, communities, and the wider Church.
Concluding his message, Pope Leo XIV asked believers to seek grace and strength throughout the penitential season, so that Lent may become a genuine opportunity to hear the Lord’s voice and recommit to following Christ more faithfully.

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Duler Parish Families Celebrate ‘Disconnect to Connect’ for Jubilee of Families


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

The Parish of St. Francis Xavier, Duler, recently hosted a special celebration for Family Apostolate Sunday and the Jubilee of Families on 31st August 2025, coinciding with the Diocesan Day dedicated to family ministry. The event drew parishioners of all ages for a day of spiritual reflection, practical guidance, and joyful fellowship.

The day began with a beautifully animated liturgy led by the Family Apostolate Animation Team. Through three engaging skits, participants explored the Gospel’s message of valuing relationships and humble service over possessions or status.

Following the service, Prof. Vijay and Ulene Borges of MFC, Margao, led an interactive session on balancing work and family life. Drawing from their experience raising six children, they shared strategies for discipline, clear role allocation, and open communication. They emphasized the importance of emotional and psychological support in families, highlighting how children, when respected, can also support parents.

The mood then lightened with Team and Partner games, bringing laughter and enthusiasm to participants young and old. The festivities continued with a Jubilee cake cutting and a shared lunch, fostering light-hearted conversation and community bonding.

To conclude, families were encouraged to take part in a two-hour digital detox, “Disconnect from Devices to Connect with Family,” through shared meals, games, or outings.

Fr. Anthony Fernandes, Parish Priest, commended the Family Apostolate Animation Team for organizing a meaningful program that combined formation and fellowship, praising their efforts in building Happy, Healthy, and Holy Families.

The event was coordinated by Asst. Prof. Pallavi Kalangutkar, Asst. Prof. Vibha Pai Angle, and student volunteers, ensuring a seamless execution of sessions guided by eminent resource persons, Mr. Vivek Patki and Mr. Gaurav Malhotra.

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Happy Ramadan 2025: A Time for Spiritual Reflection and Connection


Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred time for Muslims around the world. It’s a period of spiritual reflection, fasting, prayer, and community. As Ramadan begins, people come together to share wishes, messages, and blessings with loved ones.

Ramadan Mubarak Wishes and Messages

Here are some heartfelt wishes and messages to share with family and friends:

  • “May this Ramadan bring you peace, prosperity, and blessings.”
  • “Wishing you a month filled with spiritual growth and joy.”
  • “May your fasts be easy and your prayers be answered.”
  • “Ramadan Kareem! May your home be filled with light and happiness.”

Inspirational Ramadan Quotes

  • “Ramadan is the month whose beginning is mercy, whose middle is forgiveness, and whose end is freedom from fire.”
  • “Fasting is a shield; it will protect you from the hellfire and prevent you from sins.”

Ramadan WhatsApp Status and Facebook Posts

Here are some ideas for your WhatsApp status and Facebook posts:

  • “Embarking on a spiritual journey this Ramadan. May it bring peace and enlightenment.”
  • “Fasting not just from food, but from negativity. Embracing positivity this Ramadan.”
  • “May the spirit of Ramadan illuminate our hearts and homes.”

As Ramadan begins, let’s come together to share love, kindness, and blessings. May this sacred month bring us closer to our faith, our families, and our communities. Ramadan Mubarak!