Six weeks into Italy’s lockdown, Pope Francis stood there before a large dark wooden crucifix, praying for an end to the pandemic. In 1522, as a violent plague struck Rome, this same crucifix was carried in a penitential procession. When the crucifix was returned, the plague had completely ceased. Fifty years later, another shepherd, also barefoot and with a crucifix in his hand, went on pilgrimage through the streets of his own city, calling for mercy for his flock afflicted by the plague.

St Martin of Tours was a young soldier who was riding his horse in the coldest part of the winter, when he met a beggar sitting at the side of the road by the city gate. He had nothing to give him, but in a moment of inspiration he drew his sword, cut his cloak in half, and gave one half to the beggar.

Enter into Holy Week with the inspiring words of Pope Francis. "Who am I, before Jesus who enters Jerusalem amid the enthusiasm of the crowd? Am I ready to express my joy, to praise him? Or do I stand back? Who am I, before the suffering Jesus?"

Elisabeth Leseur's life was marked by adversity and moments of sorrow. Her husband had not only lost his faith but actively sought to destroy hers. Despite these challenges, Elisabeth steadfastly maintained her love for her husband and prayed ardently for him. In this blog, learn about the Servant of God who converted her husband posthumously through her secret spiritual diary.

Enter more deeply into Luke's infancy stories from the Annunciation to the birth of Jesus.

How can we endure the great suffering that may come our way if we cannot cope with the small annoyances of life? The great Carmelite saint, and Doctor of the Church, Thérèse of Lisieux (1873-1897), shows us that the way to great sanctity is the little way, the overcoming of little faults, motivated by love.