Tuesday, 4 March 2025

A Journey Through Lent: Daily Prayers from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday

As we enter the sacred season of Lent, I find myself reflecting on the importance of this time in our faith. Lent is not just a season of penance - it is a season of transformation, an opportunity to draw closer to God, and a journey that leads us to the heart of the Paschal Mystery.

Each year, I try to be intentional about how I observe Lent. 

Like many of us, I strive to embrace the three pillars of Lent: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, but sometimes, life gets busy, and despite my best efforts, I find myself losing focus. That’s why this year, I’ve decided to embark on a deeper, more structured spiritual journey through daily prayer.

Wednesday, 26 February 2025

HELP! I'm Being Tempted To Sin... What Can I Do NOW?

Temptation is an inescapable part of life. Whether it's a subtle whisper to cut corners or a powerful urge to act against God’s will, temptation can strike at any moment. 

As Christians, we strive to live holy lives, but what can we do when the battle feels overwhelming, and we’re on the verge of giving in?

The good news is that God’s grace is always available to help us resist temptation. 

This article will explore practical steps and spiritual tools you can use right now to fight temptation and grow stronger in your faith.

Wednesday, 19 February 2025

How I Use My New Missal

When I first received my new missal, I was excited but also a little unsure about how best to use it. 

Over time, however, I've developed a routine that has greatly enriched my participation in Mass and helps deepen my understanding of the Scriptures. 

In this article, I will share how I use my missal throughout the week and how it influences my experience at Mass.

10 Ways Saint Peter Was Just Like Many Of Us

Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is a figure revered in Christianity for his role in spreading the teachings of Jesus. 

While he is often depicted as a saintly and larger-than-life figure, there are aspects of his life and personality that resonate with people from all walks of life.  

Here are 10 ways Saint Peter was just like you and me:

Wednesday, 12 February 2025

10 Catholic Saints Who Had A Hard Time Fighting Sin

Throughout history, the Catholic Church has venerated numerous saints for their exemplary lives of holiness, virtue, and devotion to God. 

While many saints are celebrated for their unwavering faith and steadfast resistance to sin, there are also those who faced significant struggles in their spiritual journey. 

Here are 10 Catholic saints who, despite their deep faith and commitment to God, encountered challenges in fighting against sin:

Saturday, 8 February 2025

Why Was Peter So Obedient?

In the Gospel account found in Luke 5, we are presented with one of the most striking examples of faith and obedience in the New Testament - the miraculous catch of fish. 

After a long night of fruitless labour, Peter, a seasoned fisherman, obeyed Jesus’ unexpected command to cast his nets again. 

This act of obedience, even in the face of exhaustion and apparent failure, has long intrigued scholars, theologians, and believers alike. 

Why was Peter so obedient? 

Was it because he already knew Jesus, or was there something deeper at work - a profound trust in the Master who had come to transform his life?

In this article, we shall explore these questions in depth, examining the context of the event, the nature of Peter’s relationship with Jesus, and the significance of addressing him as “Master.” Through this exploration, we aim to uncover lessons that continue to inspire Catholic believers today.

Friday, 7 February 2025

How We Can Prepare For The Feast Day Of Our Lady Of Lourdes Which Falls On The 11th February?

The Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, celebrated on the 11th of February, holds a special place in the hearts of Catholics worldwide and for Our Lady of Lourdes, Catholic Church in New Milton.

The Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes commemorates the Marian apparitions to Saint Bernadette Soubirous in 1858 in the small town of Lourdes, France. 

Our Lady’s message was one of prayer, penance, and faith, and her miraculous presence continues to draw millions of pilgrims each year seeking healing and spiritual renewal. 

As we approach this significant feast day (4 days away from the date of this blog post), it is an opportune time to deepen our devotion, reflect on Our Lady’s message, and prepare our hearts to honour her with reverence. 

Here are some ways we can spiritually and practically prepare for this sacred day.

Wednesday, 5 February 2025

The Theme of the Catholic Jubilee of 2025

Pope Francis announced that the Jubilee of 2025 will be centred on the theme "Pilgrims of Hope." This theme reflects the universal call to journey towards God with faith, trust, and optimism, especially in a world often marked by uncertainty and division. 

The focus on hope encourages the faithful to rely on God’s promises and to be signs of hope for others, through acts of charity, solidarity, and evangelisation.

The Jubilee theme is particularly timely, as it addresses the challenges the Church and the world have faced in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, economic instability, and growing societal tensions. It invites Catholics to renew their faith and become agents of peace and healing.

Saturday, 1 February 2025

I Don’t Have the Courage to Evangelise As I Should… So What Can I Do?

Evangelisation is at the heart of our Catholic faith. Christ’s Great Commission, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19), calls each of us to share the Good News. Yet, for many Catholics, the thought of evangelising can feel daunting, even overwhelming. We may hesitate out of fear of rejection, lack of knowledge, or simply feeling unworthy of the task.

If you find yourself struggling with courage when it comes to evangelisation, you are not alone. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to grow in confidence and fulfil your calling as a disciple of Christ.

Tuesday, 28 January 2025

A Simple Catholic Approach To Continual Prayer.

In the Catholic tradition, prayer is considered a fundamental aspect of spiritual life – a way to communicate with God, seek guidance, and cultivate a deeper relationship with the divine. 

While structured prayers and formal rituals play a significant role in Catholic worship, the concept of continual prayer offers a more fluid and ongoing approach to connecting with the divine presence. 

Let's explore a simple Catholic approach to continual prayer and how it can be integrated into daily life.

Friday, 24 January 2025

Returning To Our Father From Lukewarmness Or Sin

There is no greater tragedy than feeling distant from our Heavenly Father, yet no greater joy than returning to Him. 

Whether this distance arises from lukewarmness or outright sin, it is a universal experience for Christians to struggle with remaining close to God. 

The story of the Prodigal Son, recounted in Luke 15:11–32, provides profound wisdom on God’s mercy and the joy that comes from reconciliation. Complementing this message are the heartfelt lyrics of "When God Ran" by Phillips, Craig & Dean and "Here I Am Again" by Masters Voice, which beautifully illustrate the journey of returning to the Father.

This article explores the reality of drifting from God, the call to return, and the boundless love that awaits us when we do.

Wednesday, 22 January 2025

Is It Possible to Live A Sinless Life As A Catholic?

Living a sinless life is a concept deeply rooted in many religious traditions, including Catholicism. 

The Catholic Church teaches that all humans are born with original sin inherited from Adam and Eve but also believes in the possibility of living a life free from sin through the grace of God. 

The question of whether it is possible to live a sinless life as a Catholic is a complex and nuanced one, drawing on theological, philosophical, and practical considerations.

Tuesday, 21 January 2025

Our Lord's Birth Was First Proclaimed To Lowly Shepherds And The Miracle Of The Wine At The Wedding At Cana Was Shared First With The Servants... Let's Explore This Theme

The Gospel narratives are replete with moments where the divine intersects with the ordinary, where heaven meets earth in the humblest of circumstances. 

Two such moments stand out in their simplicity and profound theological significance: the announcement of Our Lord's birth to lowly shepherds and the sharing of the first miracle at Cana with the servants. 

These events, far from being mere footnotes in salvation
history, reveal deep truths about God's kingdom and His preferential option for the humble. 

Let us delve into this theme and uncover the treasures it holds for our faith and daily lives.

Tuesday, 14 January 2025

Why I Love "The Catholic Current" Podcast

In today’s world, where countless voices vie for our attention, finding a source of wisdom and truth can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This is particularly true for Catholics seeking to deepen their faith amidst the noise of secular culture. Enter The Catholic Current, a podcast that has captured my heart and nourished my soul. 

With its engaging content, thought-provoking discussions, and unwavering fidelity to Catholic teaching, The Catholic Current stands out as a beacon of light in the digital age. Let me tell you why I love this podcast and why I believe it deserves a place in your listening rotation.

Friday, 10 January 2025

Are They Prayers or Simply Thoughts?

In our modern, fast-paced world, the distinction between prayer and thought can often become blurred. 

For Catholics, prayer is a profound and personal connection with God, a vital component of our spiritual life. 

Yet, in everyday conversations, phrases like "I'll keep you in my thoughts" or "I'm sending positive thoughts" have become commonplace. 

This raises a crucial question: 

Are these expressions a form of prayer, or are they merely thoughtful sentiments?

Wednesday, 8 January 2025

The Rich Tapestry of Catholic Traditions

Catholicism, one of the world's oldest and most widespread religions, is deeply woven with a rich tapestry of traditions. 

These traditions not only define the faith but also connect believers across generations and geographies. 

Understanding these practices provides insight into the profound spirituality and communal aspects of the Catholic Church.

Was Elvis "Nearly" A Catholic?

Elvis Presley, the King of Rock 'n' Roll, is an enduring icon whose influence on music and popular culture remains unmatched. 

Known for his eclectic blend of rhythm and blues, gospel, and country music, Elvis captured the hearts of millions. 

Beyond his public persona, however, lies a lesser-known facet of his life—his spiritual journey. 

This article explores the intriguing question: Was Elvis nearly a Catholic?