The celebrations were graced by the presence of Monsignor Fortunatus Nwachukwu, Secretary of the Vatican Dicastery for Evangelization and a proud alumnus of the seminary. Presiding over the outdoor ceremony attended by hundreds, Monsignor Nwachukwu emphasized the transformative nature of diaconal ordination in his homily. “As Stephen and his companions, you are elevated not by lineage or heritage, as the Levites were, but by God’s divine choice,” he remarked, urging the new deacons to embrace their vocation as a universal calling to serve.

A Legacy of Service and Impact

Founded a century ago and named after Jeanne Bigard, co-founder of the Pontifical Work of St. Peter the Apostle, the Bigard Memorial Seminary has grown into a beacon of theological and philosophical education. Currently hosting 780 seminarians, the institution has made an indelible mark on the Church. Its alumni include four cardinals, 14 archbishops, and 37 bishops, alongside countless priests ministering worldwide.

Centennial Highlights

The centenary celebrations extended beyond the spiritual, encompassing a vibrant mix of cultural and athletic events, competitions, and the premiere of a documentary chronicling the seminary’s rich history. A significant moment in the festivities was the blessing of a new residential pavilion, symbolizing the seminary’s ongoing expansion and commitment to the formation of future clergy.

The main building, inaugurated on March 4, 1951, remains a testament to the vision and dedication of those who have sustained the seminary over the decades. As Bigard looks ahead, its leadership and community remain focused on fostering a new generation of clergy equipped to meet the challenges of modern evangelization.

A Testament to Faith

Bigard Memorial Seminary’s 100-year journey is not just a chronicle of milestones but a testament to the enduring power of faith and education. As the newly ordained deacons embark on their ministry, they carry forward a legacy rooted in service, resilience, and the pursuit of spiritual excellence.

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Speaking at a press conference on November 26, Bishop Elizondo expressed hope that the Ope would preside over the long-awaited ceremony. “The consecration of the cathedral will be a momentous occasion for our Catholic community and a chance to showcase Quintana Roo’s spiritual richness to the world,” he stated. If Pope Francis cannot attend, the bishop intends to extend the invitation to the papal representative in Mexico.

A Dream Decades in the Making

The cathedral, whose construction began over two decades ago, has seen renewed efforts toward its completion. Governor Mara Lezama officiated a ceremony marking the resumption of construction on the same day as the announcement.

“This is the culmination of a dream that has been years in the making,” said Bishop Elizondo.

Spiritual Tourism: A Growing Pillar for Quintana Roo

The bishop highlighted the potential of the consecration ceremony to elevate Quintana Roo’s reputation as a spiritual and cultural destination, complementing its globally renowned beaches.

“Quintana Roo is not only about sun and sand—it is also a place of profound spiritual experiences,” he remarked, emphasizing the region’s burgeoning religious tourism sector.

Among the key religious sites and activities he mentioned were:

• The Sanctuary of Our Lady Undoer of Knots.
• The Star of the Sea Chapel.
• Cristo Resucitado Church.
• The Marian Encounter and Way of the Cross at Playa Delfines.
• The historic Santa Cruz Chapel in Cozumel.
• The iconic Quinta Avenida Chapel in Playa del Carmen.

Additionally, Bishop Elizondo noted the unique role of the 32 seaside chapels in local hotels, offering confessions and Masses in seven major languages, including Mayan, to cater to both pilgrims and tourists.

2025: A Spiritual Milestone for Cancún

The consecration of the Santísima Trinidad Cathedral promises to be a transformative event, not only for local Catholics but also for the wider international community.

“This occasion will solidify Cancún’s position as a premier destination for religious tourism, drawing pilgrims and travelers from around the globe,” Bishop Elizondo concluded.

If the invitation to Pope Francis is accepted, the ceremony will mark a historic chapter for Cancún, merging its natural beauty with its growing spiritual significance.

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(ZENIT News – Catholic Union of Great Britain / London, 11.28.2024).- Our polling shows tremendous support for the UK’s 38,500 church buildings. Over two thirds of UK adults (68%) agree that they are an important part of our history. A large majority (66%) also agree that churches are important for society because of the help they provide for local people in need.

This support comes from Christians, and also from people of other faiths and none, young and old.

The UK has some of the most historic and beautiful churches to be found anywhere in the world. Thanks to the work of the Patrimony Committee of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, Catholic churches are now firmly on the heritage map.

Each year, through community support activities including foodbanks and warm space, mostly run by volunteers, they generate social and economic benefits worth at least £55 billion. And they continue to be at the heart of Christian worship and where life events such as births, marriages and deaths are marked.

Sadly, the latest Historic England’s ‘Heritage at Risk’ Register, published this month, includes 53 new places of worship; the total is now 969.

Keeping churches open will become even harder if the Government decides not to renew the Listed Places of Grants Scheme. Introduced by Gordon Brown, this allows listed churches to reclaim the VAT on repairs but is due to expire in March 2025.

Every MP has churches in their constituency. Their future and funding is an issue they should engage with and so help make sure these amazing building, each one a House of Good, remain in good repair, welcoming and useful for generations to come.

Eddie Tulasiewicz is Head of Policy & Public Affairs at The National Churches Trust.

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A Vision Rooted in Faith and History

Father Enock Rutashubanyuma, a 37-year-old priest originally from Bukoba, Tanzania, with training in Spain, conceived the project as more than just a place of worship. The sanctuary will commemorate the lives of priests martyred in 1895 while simultaneously serving as a center for personal and communal growth.

“This sanctuary is a tribute to those who sacrificed for faith and truth,” Father Enock remarked. “But it is also a beacon for future generations—a place where faith meets education, fostering peace and unity among people.”

A Collaborative Effort

The project has drawn international attention, thanks to its innovative design and purpose. Architect Cristina Melero, working with Bosco Arts, emphasized that the sanctuary is more than just architecture: “This sanctuary is a symbol of resilience and hope. Every corner has been carefully designed to reflect the spirit of Ukerewe, uniting its rich cultural heritage with its deep spiritual roots,” Melero explained.

The Bosco Arts Foundation, known for its mission to uplift humanity through culture, has launched a global fundraising campaign, “One Brick for Tanzania,” inviting people worldwide to contribute to this cause.

Features of the Sanctuary

The sanctuary and training center will serve multiple purposes, designed to inspire, educate, and unite:

• Historical Commemoration: Dedicated spaces to honor the martyrs and their legacy.
• Integrated Education Center: Programs focusing on spiritual growth, personal development, and community building.
• Sustainable and Culturally Reflective Design: Incorporating local materials and architectural elements that respect Ukerewe’s natural environment.
• Community Reflection Areas: Open spaces for prayer, dialogue, and meditation.

Hope for a Brighter Future

For the Bosco Arts Foundation, this project embodies its belief in the power of culture and spirituality to transform communities. «This sanctuary bridges past and future,» Melero noted. «It preserves a profound historical memory while equipping the community with the tools to navigate modern challenges.»

A Global Call for Support

The sanctuary symbolizes the resilience of the human spirit and the unyielding pursuit of peace. Supporters worldwide are encouraged to join this initiative, contributing to a lasting legacy of unity, learning, and faith.

As construction begins in December, Ukerewe stands poised to become a hub of inspiration, drawing visitors and pilgrims alike to honor its martyrs while envisioning a brighter, united future.

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The Proposal at Stake

The HHS draft rule mandates compliance with non-discrimination policies for entities seeking federal contracts. It lacks specific definitions of what constitutes «discrimination» and omits religious exemptions. Critics contend that this ambiguity could lead to mandates requiring Catholic entities to perform gender transition surgeries, provide hormone treatments, or deliver affirming counseling services—actions at odds with their religious convictions.

The regulation would impact Catholic hospitals involved in Medicare and Medicaid, as well as organizations engaged in social services like adoption, foster care, and immigration assistance, areas where Catholic agencies have traditionally been significant contributors.

Religious Freedom Concerns

In a detailed public comment, the USCCB called on HHS to abandon the proposal, emphasizing the lack of clarity in its implementation and the potential conflict with constitutional protections for religious freedom. The bishops warned that the rule, as written, threatens to undermine Catholic agencies’ ability to serve the public while adhering to their faith.

«The rule leaves critical questions unanswered about how these requirements will apply across the diverse programs and services under HHS,» the bishops noted. They added that the policy could penalize entities unwilling to endorse certain ideologies, forcing them out of vital public service roles.

A Pattern of Conflict

This is not the first clash between the Biden administration’s HHS and Catholic organizations. In 2022, the department sought to mandate abortions in emergency cases under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). That rule was blocked by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court declined to review the decision.

Similarly, Catholic hospitals successfully challenged a previous HHS rule attempting to compel them to provide transgender medical procedures, citing religious objections.

Implications for the Future 

The public comment period for the proposed regulation ends on December 2, after which HHS will determine its next steps. However, political developments may shift the trajectory.

President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to overturn policies promoting what he calls «gender ideology.» He has proposed a federal ban on transgender surgeries for minors and signaled strong support for religious liberty. Trump’s pick to lead HHS, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is expected to shape future policies if confirmed by the Senate.

Broader Impacts

The proposal highlights growing tensions between government regulations and religious freedoms. Catholic organizations argue their service to communities is guided by faith-based principles, which must not be compromised by policy mandates.

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A Bishop at the Crossroads of Tradition and Activism

Bishop Stowe, known for his advocacy on LGBTQ+ matters, has drawn both praise and criticism for his progressive approach. While the Catholic Church teaches that homosexual acts are morally disordered and opposes transgender ideology, Stowe has consistently emphasized inclusivity and dialogue.

In his acceptance speech, Stowe highlighted the slow pace of change within the Church, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ language and theology. He lamented what he described as outdated theological frameworks and called for greater acknowledgment of gender and sexual diversity. “The Spirit calls us to community and participation,” he said, urging patience while also expressing frustration with the Church’s perceived inertia.

A Controversial Recognition

New Ways Ministry, the awarding organization, has long been at odds with official Church teaching. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) explicitly stated in 2010 that the group “has no approval or recognition from the Catholic Church” and cautioned Catholics against its interpretations of Church teaching.

Despite this, Stowe’s alignment with New Ways Ministry and his efforts to bridge the gap between LGBTQ+ individuals and the Church have made him a prominent figure in this debate. Sister Jeannine Gramick, co-founder of New Ways Ministry and censured by the Vatican for her views, praised Stowe’s “bold and courageous statements” in support of LGBTQ+ people.

 A Pattern of Advocacy

Bishop Stowe’s record of LGBTQ+ advocacy is extensive. He has endorsed the use of inclusive language, supported gender pronouns aligning with individuals’ preferences, and organized events promoting LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Church. Notable actions include:

– Hosting a 2019 LGBT retreat at the University of Notre Dame.

– Issuing a public apology during Pride Month in 2020 for what he described as the Church’s failure to support LGBTQ+ individuals.

– Supporting the Equality Act, a legislative proposal that critics argue undermines religious freedoms and women’s rights.

– Promoting LGBTQ+-inclusive initiatives within his diocese, including a controversial “Service of Atonement” for past Church teachings.

Critics and Defenders

While supporters view Stowe as a trailblazer advocating for marginalized groups, critics argue that his approach contradicts Church teachings and risks sowing confusion among the faithful. Many see his actions as indicative of a broader trend within parts of the Church under Pope Francis, who has emphasized pastoral care and outreach to all individuals, including those in LGBTQ+ communities.

The Future of Dialogue

The award to Bishop Stowe underscores the tension between traditional Catholic teachings and efforts to engage with contemporary social issues. As debates over inclusivity and doctrinal fidelity continue, Stowe’s advocacy raises questions about the Church’s future approach to LGBTQ+ issues and whether a balance can be struck between compassion and adherence to doctrine.

In his closing remarks, Stowe called for greater openness and understanding, stating, “The journey is slow, but the Spirit compels us forward.” For his supporters, these words signal hope for change, while for his critics, they highlight concerns about doctrinal drift.

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A Tradition in Question

The note underscores that intergenerational healing, despite its growing popularity among some faithful, lacks grounding in Catholic doctrine. It links the practice to a controversial belief that sins or spiritual burdens can be inherited through ancestral lines, causing physical, psychological, or spiritual ailments. Advocates often propose that such «curses» can be broken through specific prayers, Eucharistic celebrations, or exorcisms focused on one’s ancestors. However, the bishops argue that these claims contradict core Catholic teachings on sin, grace, and the sacraments.

Theological Concerns and Pastoral Risks

This practice, rooted in the writings of figures such as Kenneth McAll and popularized within charismatic circles, has been deemed incompatible with Church tradition. The bishops highlight several theological missteps, including:

1. Sin and Responsibility: The Catholic understanding is clear: sin is personal and cannot be transferred across generations, apart from the inherited state of original sin, which baptism absolves entirely.
2. Distorted Sacramental Theology: Proponents often misuse the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, for purposes outside their intended liturgical and theological framework.
3. Undermining Individual Freedom: Attributing present afflictions to ancestral sin risks negating personal accountability and reducing complex psychological and spiritual issues to simplistic causal links.

 A Broader Ecclesial Context

The Spanish bishops are not alone in their critique. Episcopal conferences in France, Poland, and South Korea have issued similar warnings, each cautioning against the theological and psychological dangers of such practices. These interventions universally emphasize that salvation and healing are gifts freely given by God through Christ’s redemptive sacrifice, not contingent on addressing ancestral faults.

A Call for Clarity

The note from the Spanish bishops aims to provide clarity and guidance for both clergy and laity, urging them to avoid practices that, while well-meaning, can lead to confusion and spiritual harm. Instead, it calls on the faithful to trust in the Church’s authentic teaching on the sacraments and to seek healing within the context of established pastoral care.

At its heart, the document reaffirms the Catholic vision of God’s mercy and justice: “No one bears the guilt of another’s sin,” it states, quoting Scripture, “for it is the one who sins who shall die” (Ezekiel 18:20). The bishops conclude with an invitation to deepen faith in the transformative power of Christ, whose grace is “poured out in abundance” for every generation.

This decisive stance signals a renewed commitment by the Spanish Church to defend doctrinal purity while addressing the spiritual needs of the faithful with compassion and wisdom.

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In 1990, Father Calise was at a breaking point. Ten years into his priesthood, alcohol had infiltrated every aspect of his life, straining relationships with his family, parishioners, and his vocation itself. At the urging of a concerned priest, he entered a 90-day treatment program at Guest House, a specialized residential center in Michigan for clergy with addictions. This decision marked the beginning of his journey to recovery.

A New Mission: Supporting Others in Recovery

Father Calise’s sobriety gave him a new perspective on ministry. Determined to support others facing similar struggles, he founded Transition House, a place of respite and renewal for priests re-entering ministry after treatment for addiction. Located within the rectory of Transfiguration-St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish in Maspeth, New York, where he serves as pastor, Transition House has grown beyond its original mission.

“Initially, it was intended for priests recovering from addictive behaviors,” explains Father Calise. “But over the years, it has evolved to serve a broader purpose.” Now, the house also welcomes clergy dealing with non-addiction-related challenges, such as health issues, visa complications, or the need for temporary relief from pastoral pressures.

Transition House is not a treatment center but a haven for priests transitioning back into ministry. “It’s a space where they can acclimate to diocesan life after treatment,” says Father Calise. With six bedrooms, a living area, and a chapel, the home offers a supportive environment tailored to individual needs. Some priests stay for weeks, while others remain for months, depending on their circumstances.

Loneliness and Addiction in Clergy Life

Father Calise is uniquely positioned to provide guidance, having experienced the pain of addiction himself. His struggle began in adolescence, eventually spiraling into alcoholism. Reflecting on those years, he recalls, “There was so much pain and sadness. But out of that, I’ve been able to help others find a path to healing.”

Clergy members, he notes, are particularly vulnerable to addiction due to the isolating nature of their roles. “We live very solitary lives. Many priests are alone in their rectories, and even when they’re not, there’s often a deep sense of loneliness. That isolation often seeks solace.”

Statistics back up this reality. The St. John Vianney Center in Pennsylvania estimates that 10% of U.S. priests struggle with substance addiction, yet only 2% seek treatment. The stigma surrounding addiction and the demands of ministry often prevent priests from reaching out for help.

Healing Through Service

Father Calise’s personal recovery journey has become a cornerstone of his ministry. He also celebrates Serenity Sundays, healing Masses at St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish for individuals in various stages of addiction recovery. These services provide spiritual support and a sense of community for those on their path to sobriety.

“Recovery taught me to be available to God’s surprises,” he reflects. “It’s about being present for the unexpected needs of others and seeing Christ in those moments.”

As Transition House marks seven years of operation, Father Calise continues to lead by example. His story is a testament to the power of vulnerability, resilience, and faith. For him, the work is far from over. “Sobriety has given me the chance to touch lives in ways I never imagined. And for that, I’m deeply grateful.”

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On the night of September 1, 2024, the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Saint-Omer, a town in northern France, was engulfed in flames in what was later determined to be a deliberate act of destruction. The fire caused catastrophic damage, with repair costs estimated at €10 million. While an online fundraising campaign by the Heritage Foundation quickly amassed €135,000 from over 1,200 donors, this amount barely scratched the surface of what was needed.

Just as despair loomed, an unexpected intervention transformed the narrative. The town received an astonishing €1 million donation to aid in the church’s reconstruction. Initially shrouded in mystery, the source of this substantial contribution was revealed by municipal councilor François Decoster. In a heartfelt announcement on social media, Decoster expressed gratitude to the “Marcel Dassault Industrial Group” and the Dassault family for their exceptional support.

The donation, made by the heirs of Marcel Dassault—founder of France’s leading aerospace company, Dassault Aviation—demonstrates a powerful counterpoint to the forces of hate that seek to obliterate symbols of faith. While the family’s financial capacity made such generosity possible, their decision to act in this way speaks volumes about their values and commitment to preserving heritage.

“This incredible gesture, alongside contributions from the Heritage Foundation’s donors, underscores the enduring importance of our shared cultural and spiritual landmarks,” Decoster wrote.

The incident in Saint-Omer is emblematic of the tensions within France, a country with a deeply rooted yet complex relationship with religion. While nearly 1,000 anti-Christian acts were recorded nationwide in 2023, the response from both local communities and benefactors like the Dassault family underscores a resilience and dedication to safeguarding France’s religious and cultural legacy.

Beyond its immediate financial impact, the donation carries symbolic weight. It highlights the stark contrast between the destructive impulses of a few and the commitment of others to rebuild and preserve what unites communities. For the residents of Saint-Omer, it serves as a reminder that even in the face of hostility, hope and solidarity can prevail.

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Denials Amid Speculation 

On November 23, the hospital issued a statement refuting reports of ongoing negotiations with private entities, branding them “entirely unfounded.” It reaffirmed that the facility remains under Vatican ownership, with oversight provided by a commission reporting to the Secretariat of State. The statement highlighted its importance not just to the Puglia region but to the broader southern Italian healthcare landscape.

A Legacy of Service and Struggle 

Since its inception, the hospital has stood as a beacon of healthcare in the Adriatic’s Gargano region, offering advanced medical services with 756 beds and employing over 2,700 staff. However, the facility’s operations have been shadowed by persistent financial difficulties. According to a 2023 “Corriere della Sera” report, Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza has operated with a deficit in 14 of the past 18 years, culminating in a debt of approximately $260 million.

Despite its financial woes, the hospital remains a cornerstone of the Italian national healthcare system, with nearly 33,000 annual admissions and over 920,000 outpatient procedures. However, calls for structural changes have intensified.

Recovery Plan Under Scrutiny 

To address its financial troubles, the hospital plans to reduce its bed count to 585 over the next three years, increase patient turnover efficiency, and selectively replace retiring staff. Yet, many observers question whether these measures will suffice to stabilize the institution.

Labor issues compound the hospital’s challenges. Recent talks between unions and administrators failed to produce agreements on issues such as contract renewals and unequal productivity bonuses. Paramedics, for instance, report receiving far lower incentives than doctors, sparking further discontent. Union representatives warn that the workforce, already bearing the brunt of debt-reduction efforts, will not shoulder disproportionate sacrifices. Strikes loom on the horizon if no resolution is reached in the next round of discussions on December 5.

Faith in Padre Pio’s Vision 

Amid the turbulence, Filippo Barbano, mayor of San Giovanni Rotondo and a nuclear medicine physician at the hospital, remains optimistic. He called for unity and resilience, invoking Padre Pio’s legacy as a source of strength. “San Pio will not abandon us or the hospital he envisioned for those in need,” Barbano assured.

The hospital’s enduring mission, tied closely to its founder’s vision of compassionate care, remains a rallying point for its staff and community. Yet, as financial pressures and labor conflicts intensify, the path forward will demand both practical reforms and a steadfast commitment to its foundational values.

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