As we enter into these three days, the one day, we make this mystery our own. No mere spectators in this Act of Love we become participants. We who bear the name "Christian" are to pick up that basin and towel, to climb upon that Cross and learn to live the Way of Love in service. Our faith and love are to be active and incarnate. Jesus washes his disciples feet, using our hands. We make the mystery real in a world that awaits the fullness of redemption. God is Love and Love is a Verb.

With Palm Sunday right around the corner, Catholics across the globe will soon be handed leaves as they walk into church. Some might fold them into elaborate little crosses. Kids will poke each other with them. But it's safe to say most won't know where they came from.

When we encounter Jesus and the Gospel, we immediately sense that we are dealing with something that is not of this world. To be a Christian is not the same as being a member of an organization. When we join an organization, we make a commitment to the goals and objectives of the organization, but we still have our own private lives that we live outside of the meetings and activities of the organization.

Jesus was the first target of "fake news" spread by those who wanted spin and twist his message for their own benefit, Pope Francis said Palm Sunday, but stressed that despite the pride and skepticism of some, nothing can dampen the joy of Christ's message or his Resurrection.

Each and every day we are called on to become closer to God. We can answer that call with our actions and our prayers. This Lenten Season take a step closer to the Lord with these special Lenten prayers.

For centuries, Catholics have observed the tradition of abstaining from meat on Fridays, particularly during Lent, often replacing it with fish. This practice holds deep spiritual significance and is not simply a dietary choice. Abstinence from meat on Fridays is a form of penance, a way to unite ourselves with Christ's suffering on the cross, and a means to grow in spiritual discipline.Read more of this article on Catholic Online News here >>

I am a Catholic Christian who grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, with an Irish lineage. I have always loved St. Patrick's Day. The celebrations and the revelry seemed to provide a break from the intensity of our age and an opportunity to celebrate.

Here are some more little-known facts about St. Patrick's Day.

St. Patrick's Day is nearly here, the time has come to join and celebrate the Catholic saint.

Pope Francis continues to recover from his recent hospitalization, with Vatican officials confirming that his condition has improved. However, doctors remain cautious due to the severity of his initial infection and the complexities of his overall health.Read more of this article on Catholic Online News here >>

Light a Candle for Pope Francis