Jesus said, “Among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist”. Each year on June 24 the Catholic Church honors the birth of John by reflecting on his unique role as the precursor of Jesus. The solemnity held on that date praises John as a worthy example of what it means to be a follower of Christ. A solemnity is the most significant feast the Church can establish. While other saints are remembered with feast days to remember their deaths, St. John the Baptist, like Our Lady, is honored with solemnities to recall both his birth and his death.
Happy birthday, St. John the Baptist!
The Immaculate Heart of Mary • Monthly devotion for August
In popular practice, August traditionally has been devoted to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Here are some ways to practice that devotion with your family this month.
Saint Aloysius Gonzaga • Saint stories
Have one of your brothers or sisters or even a friend gotten really sick? Were you told to stay away from them so you wouldn’t get sick? St. Aloysius Gonzaga took that risk! He grew up in a very wealthy family. His father wanted him to be a soldier “just like him!” In fact, at the age of 4 years old, he began his training as a soldier and a courtier (a person who works as an advisor or companion to the king or queen). Granted, Aloysius lived 450 years ago. But still that was a young age to begin training.
Celebrate the feasts of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary
The Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus falls on the 19th day after Pentecost (a Friday), and the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary follows on the next day. If you’ve heard of devotions to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary but aren’t quite sure what they’re all about, in the post you’ll find a brief introduction and a few ideas for what your family might do.
Nine things to do with your kids on Pentecost
Pentecost is one of the most important holy days of the Church calendar. Here are nine ideas for praying, celebrating, and learning about Pentecost with your kids.
