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This article first appeared at: stpaulcenter.com Amidst the somber beauty of the many readings at Easter Vigil Mass, there’s a line from the prophet Isaiah which feels rather jarring: “For a brief moment I abandoned you, but with great tenderness I will take you back” (Is 54:7, NABRE). For souls whose hearts have been pierced by deep suffering, this verse might feel disconcerting. Why would our loving Father ever abandon us, even for a brief moment? And does that mean He might be abandonin …

written by Cath GaleAfter caring for my Dad full time for 14 months, while he lived with a brain tumour, when people say how wonderful a job I did caring for him, my only reply is that it is a drop in the ocean compared to what my Dad did for me. My Dad, the 9th out of 13 children, was born in 1940, a twin. He attempted to enter the monastery in his early twenties however after being told by the third attempt to go somewhere else, Dad decided he was “being given the run around” and began praying …

Originally published by www.catholicweekly.com.auWhen pre-production began on a docu-fiction film chronicling the life of St Mary MacKillop, Catholic media companyShalom World never expected that the highly-anticipated Aussie project would be shelved.Significant financial challenges threatened to end the production before it could begin and consequently the script was set aside.Seeking intercession from St Mary Mackillop herself, the team experienced a “miracle” as a series of providential event …

Charbel Raish was born into a Catholic home. But, in the last 6 years of school, he was influenced and challenged in his faith by Islamic friends. In his final year, he struggled to make a choice. He visited a mosque to give his life to Allah and Muhamed. But God wasn’t done with him yet. Charbel visited a church, begging God for a sign. His life was transformed forever.This conversion story shares what happened that day in the Mosque and the Church! Learn about his family upbringing, and how hi …

Mosaic, c1900 of the Virgin in the Rosary Basilica, Lourdes, France. PHOTO: Fr Lawrence Lew OPDear father, I am a recent convert and a friend taught me to say the Memorare, which I find very beautiful. Can you tell me anything about the background of this prayer?For those unfamiliar with the Memorare, these are the words: “Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspir …

With all the confusion and harmful agendas being pushed on children in society today, it can be a scary time to raise a family. It is understandable to be concerned about the world our children are being brought into.But, will you be paralysed by fear and withdraw from the world, or will you step up, fire up and answer the call for our time? The best way to fight evil is with good!Every time I notice myself getting worried about the attacks on gender, marriage, and family life in our world, I re …