A Remarkable Journey of Faith and Survival

Born on June 8, 1908, in São Francisco de Assis, Brazil, Sister Inah’s early years were anything but promising. Doctors believed she wouldn’t survive infancy due to her frail health. However, defying all odds, she has lived through two world wars, the advent of electricity in her hometown, and the rise of modern Brazil. Sister Inah attributes her longevity to her unwavering faith and devotion to prayer, particularly the rosary, which she is often seen holding in photographs.

Her journey as a nun began in 1924 at age 16 when she joined the Santa Teresa de Jesús boarding school in Santana do Livramento, Brazil. A decade later, she took her vows in Montevideo, Uruguay, before returning to Brazil to dedicate her life to education. Teaching Portuguese and mathematics in Rio de Janeiro for decades, she later transitioned to a quieter life at the Casa Provincial in Porto Alegre in 1980.

A Steadfast Presence in Modern Challenges

Despite her age, Sister Inah remains connected to the world around her. During her 116th birthday celebrations in June 2024, Porto Alegre was grappling with devastating floods that displaced thousands. Even as she faced health challenges, Sister Inah stayed attuned to the plight of her neighbors, offering prayers that brought solace to her community.

Her nephew, Cléber Canabarro Lucas, highlighted the power of her spiritual presence, saying, “Her prayers are powerful. Knowing that Sister Inah was praying for everyone brought comfort to people during these difficult times.”

Though her physical abilities have diminished—she struggles with hearing, vision, and mobility—Sister Inah’s spirit remains vibrant. According to her family, medical examinations revealed no specific illnesses, with her frailty attributed solely to her advanced age.

A Legacy of Longevity and Faith

Sister Inah’s longevity places her among a rare group of supercentenarians—individuals aged 110 or older—and marks her as the last known survivor born in 1908. Her life of devotion and service has also earned recognition from the highest levels of the Catholic Church. In 2018, she received an apostolic blessing from Pope Francis for her 110th birthday.

She stands as the second-oldest nun in recorded history, following France’s Sister André, who passed away in 2023 at 118 years and 340 days. Sister Inah is also one of only three living individuals verified to have been born in the first decade of the 20th century.

A Life Rooted in Simplicity and Joy

Beyond her religious devotion, Sister Inah has remained a dedicated supporter of her local football team, Sport Club Internacional. Her connection to the sport, much like her life, reflects her humility and connection to community. “Football is for everyone—rich or poor,” she once said in an interview.

Today, Sister Inah lives a peaceful life at a Teresian convent in central Porto Alegre.

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A Journey Through Centuries

The Camino de Santiago, dating back to the Middle Ages, culminates at the shrine of St. James in Santiago de Compostela, a site considered one of Christianity’s three great pilgrimage destinations alongside Rome and Jerusalem. The network of routes spans Europe, converging in Spain’s Galicia region, where the final steps lead to the iconic cathedral.

While rooted in tradition, the Camino has evolved to reflect the modern pilgrim’s diversity. For some, it is a testament of faith; for others, a cultural or even athletic endeavor.

A Global Phenomenon

The surge in pilgrim numbers is a testament to the Camino’s enduring allure. In 2024, over 38,000 Americans made the journey, solidifying their place as the second-largest group of pilgrims after Spaniards, who accounted for over 200,000 walkers. Italy and Germany also contributed significantly, with 28,599 and 23,462 pilgrims, respectively.

The Camino continues to draw adventurers from far-flung locales, including pilgrims from Gambia, Laos, and the Solomon Islands. Despite the diversity in origins and motivations, all participants share a unifying goal: reaching the spiritual and cultural heart of Santiago de Compostela.

Endurance and Innovation

The pilgrimage isn’t limited to walking. While most follow the traditional route on foot, some take to bicycles, and an intrepid 591 pilgrims completed the journey on horseback in 2024. To earn the coveted completion certificate, pilgrims must cover at least 100 kilometers on foot or 200 kilometers by bike, documented through stamps in their pilgrim passports.

Seasonal Rhythms and Challenges

The Camino thrives in the warmer months, with pilgrim numbers peaking between May and October. On average, 2,300 pilgrims arrived daily during the high season. However, the pilgrimage doesn’t halt for the holidays; 183 individuals celebrated New Year’s Eve by completing their journey on December 31.

Despite the Camino’s success, its rising popularity presents challenges. Overflowing accommodations, noise, and congestion strain the quaint villages that dot the route. Yet, the Camino continues to offer its trademark blend of art, nature, gastronomy, and camaraderie, ensuring its place as a transformative experience for many.

Safety and Support for Pilgrims

Jorge Martínez-Cava, president of the European Camino association, emphasized the Camino’s enduring appeal and safety. While recommending the use of Spain’s “Alertcops” app for additional security, he noted that the route remains a sanctuary for spiritual and personal growth.

«The Camino de Santiago is more than a pilgrimage; it is a journey through art, friendship, and discovery,» Martínez-Cava remarked, highlighting its multifaceted nature.

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Creating Sacred Beauty explores how art stirs us, no matter our upbringing, creed, religion, or personal taste … and how Catholic sacred art lifts our minds to the divine, as we seek beauty and meaning.

Series host Katia Villanueva uncovers what makes sacred art, and art oriented towards the act of worship, special, through interviews with Catholic artisans about how their faith informs their creativity.

Episodes focus on painter Lalo Garcia, author Lisa Hendey, stained-glass artist David Judson, liturgical-furnishings builder Jefferson Tortorelli, graphic artist and animator Ximena Palencia, and singer/musical director Bryan Roach.

Series producer Alan Hewitt said, “Hearing the stories of artists who specialize in the sacred has been such a joy and has opened my eyes to the world of artisans behind religious masterpieces. Each of these artists that we interview brings their own passion and zest for life to an artform that points to something beyond themselves. Seeing artists so excited and joyful in their vocations, has been a gift, and I hope to share it with many more people in this series.”

Family Theater Productions’ National Director, Reverend David L. Guffey, C.S.C., remarked on the series, “As past generations have been spiritually moved by artists’ creative expressions, so I hope this series will show how the Spirit continues to work through the hearts of artists to create beautiful projects for people today.”

Creating Sacred Beauty can be found on YouTube or at www.CreatingSacredBeauty.com.

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An Extraordinary Sacrifice During Revolutionary Turmoil

The story of the Carmelite Martyrs of Compiègne is one of unyielding faith amid persecution. During the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror, when religious orders were disbanded and clergy faced brutal suppression, these nuns, led by Mother Teresa of Saint Augustine, vowed to offer their lives for the end of the Revolution and the restoration of the Church in France.

Expelled from their convent in 1792, the sisters secretly continued their communal life of prayer and penance until their arrest two years later. On July 17, 1794, they were guillotined in Paris, one by one, singing hymns of praise until the final moments. Their courage left a profound imprint, symbolizing faith’s triumph over fear.

A Legacy That Resonates Through History

The nuns’ ultimate sacrifice inspired not only religious devotion but also cultural works. Their story is immortalized in Francis Poulenc’s 1957 opera, “Dialogues of the Carmelites”, based on Georges Bernanos’s play, which itself drew from Gertrud von Le Fort’s novella “The Song at the Scaffold”.

Their memory was officially honored in 1906 when Pope Pius X beatified them. Now, with their canonization, their influence extends globally, offering an enduring example of resilience and conviction.

The Rare Path of Canonization Equipollente

Pope Francis’s decision to canonize the Compiègne martyrs through “equipollent canonization” underscores their already established sanctity. Unlike the traditional process requiring formal investigations, miracles, and a public ceremony, this declaration relies on historical documentation and long-standing veneration.

This process, though uncommon, has been used before by Pope Francis, notably for saints such as Peter Faber and Margaret of Castello. It affirms the Church’s recognition of individuals whose lives exemplify exceptional holiness, even without the procedural requirements of modern canonization.

A Feast of Faith and Memory

The Feast of the Martyrs of Compiègne remains July 17, a solemn remembrance of their final act of devotion. Buried in a mass grave at the Picpus Cemetery in Paris, their sacrifice is commemorated by a simple stone marker.

Faith Beyond Death

The canonization of these 16 martyrs is more than a recognition of their death; it is a celebration of the transformative power of faith. Their hymns silenced the jeers of the crowd, their sacrifice preceded the fall of Robespierre, and their memory continues to inspire those who seek hope amid adversity.

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A Fusion of Science and Faith 

Cícero Moraes, renowned for his digital reconstructions of religious figures, collaborated with experts to bring Saint Nicholas to life through advanced forensic facial reconstruction techniques. The project, which combines science with the rich traditions of the Catholic Church, sought to humanize the relics of the revered saint and offer a glimpse into the past.

Moraes worked alongside Dr. José Luis Lira, a scholar of Catholic saints, and Dr. Thiago Beaini, a dentist specializing in forensic analysis. Using cranial data collected during the 1950s restoration of the crypt in the Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari, Italy, where the saint’s remains are housed, the team meticulously recreated his visage.  

The Process Behind the Portrait

The reconstruction process relied on facial approximation techniques that use skeletal remains to infer physical features. This method, widely employed in forensic science, bridges the gap between archaeology and modern visualization.

“We bring the saints’ faces closer to reality, offering a tangible connection to their historical existence,” explains Moraes. “This isn’t just about visualizing the past; it’s about fostering empathy and understanding. While faith transcends appearance, a face can spark a personal connection.”

The research was documented in a scientific article published by Ortog Online, detailing the intricate steps of the reconstruction.

Beyond the Bearded Icon

The result? A strikingly human image of Saint Nicholas, with features that align with the time and region he lived in—far removed from the jovial Santa Claus of modern folklore. This new depiction portrays a solemn, weathered face, reflecting the life of a man who was known for his humility, piety, and acts of generosity.

The reconstruction offers more than a historical portrait; it also serves as a tool for examining the saint’s life and legacy. “By studying his remains, we not only honor his memory but also uncover details about his physical health, diet, and even the conditions of his time,” notes Moraes.

A Face to Remember, Not to Worship

While the project has been met with fascination, Moraes is quick to emphasize that the image is not meant to alter faith. “The veneration of saints isn’t rooted in their physical appearance but in their virtues and deeds,” he says. “This is a bridge to understanding, not a pillar of devotion.”

Reconnecting with History

This isn’t Moraes’s first foray into religious reconstructions. He has previously recreated the faces of figures like Saint Anthony of Padua and Saint Catherine of Genoa. Each project serves as a reminder of the enduring intersection between history, faith, and science.

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The Crown of Thorns, believed by tradition to have been worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion, was the centerpiece of a solemn liturgical celebration presided over by Laurent Ulrich, Archbishop of Paris. The event, attended by a congregation who reserved their place in advance, unfolded with deep reverence. “We are here to accompany the Holy Crown to its new home,” the archbishop proclaimed to the assembled faithful.

A Long Journey Home 

The precious relic, a delicate circlet of woven reeds bound with gold thread, has endured centuries of history. Purchased by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) from Constantinople in 1239, it was initially enshrined in the Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic marvel built specifically to house it. By the 19th century, it was transferred to Notre Dame, where it remained until the fateful blaze that consumed much of the cathedral’s roof and spire.

Amidst the chaos of the fire in April 2019, first responders and clergy, at great personal risk, managed to rescue the Crown of Thorns and other priceless relics, including a nail and a fragment traditionally associated with Christ’s cross. In the aftermath, the crown was safeguarded in the secure vault of Paris’ City Hall under the watchful care of Mayor Anne Hidalgo.

A Reliquary for a New Era

Now, the Crown of Thorns has been enshrined in an awe-inspiring contemporary reliquary that merges tradition with modern craftsmanship. Designed by renowned architect Sylvain Dubuisson and built by artisans from the prestigious Coubertin Foundation, the new display is a striking three-meter-tall structure that reflects both artistic ingenuity and sacred devotion.

The reliquary comprises a massive marble base housing the nail and wood fragment, while the Crown of Thorns is suspended at its heart. Encased within a vertical circular metal frame and adorned with hundreds of light-reflecting crystals, the design symbolizes the eternal connection between suffering and salvation. The crystals scatter light in all directions, creating a radiant, ethereal glow that draws the eye—and the soul—toward the crown.

A Week of Renewal

The return of the Crown of Thorns is part of a series of celebrations marking the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, which reopened its doors last Saturday after extensive reconstruction efforts. For the faithful and for Paris, the moment is both symbolic and deeply moving—a testament to the enduring spirit of one of the world’s most iconic churches.

While the cathedral’s scars remain visible, the Crown’s return signifies hope. For centuries, it has inspired millions as a symbol of sacrifice and redemption. Now, it stands again at the heart of Notre Dame, renewed for future generations.

As the Archbishop of Paris said during the ceremony, “This relic calls us to humility and unity. Its return reminds us that even through destruction, beauty and faith can be restored.”

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Since its founding, the program has provided nearly $14 million in scholarships to more than 1700 individuals, known as Saeman Scholars, to advance their education and prepare them to return home and serve in leadership positions in their own countries.

“We are inspired by, and committed to, Saint John Paul II’s vision to prepare Catholic leaders and educators for service,” said Eustace Mita, President of The Papal Foundation Board of Trustees. “These scholarships help train those called to lead in developing nations, where resources for ongoing leadership formation are limited.”

In 1998, then Pope John Paul II was asked what he would do with an unrestricted, $5 million gift. Without hesitating, he said he would provide scholarships for tuition, room, and board to priests, religious sisters, and laity from disadvantaged countries, allowing them to study in Rome and then return to their dioceses to teach the authentic magisterium of the Church. The program launched in 2000 thanks to the wonderful generosity of John and Carol Saeman of Denver, CO, who made the initial $5 million gift that was matched by The Papal Foundation.

“This scholarship is a miracle for myself and the people of my area,” said Justin Musona, a diocesan priest from the Catholic Diocese of Mutare in Zimbabwe. “I embrace learning, and the scholarship has given me a deeper level of understanding and education in our Faith.  I want to assure you that I will put my learnings to good use in the pastoral field.” “Saint John Paul II knew we needed a way to provide educational opportunities in Rome for individuals from disadvantaged countries, so they could return to their dioceses equipped to help secure the future of the Church around the world,” added Dave Savage, Executive Director of The Papal Foundation. “He himself was sent to Rome as a student priest, an experience that helped shape his life of servant leadership. Forming leaders in the Catholic Church is a blessing, and we and we are incredibly grateful to John and Carol Saeman, who made this work possible.

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It all began in 1985, when Mother Line, the current prioress, and Sister Verónica met. Verónica expressed a deep sense of calling from God to consecrate her life, but no congregation was able to accept her, as most required postulants to be self-sufficient and possess the mental capacities needed to meet the demands of religious life.

Faced with this situation, Mother Line recognized that existing congregations lacked the infrastructure and way of life adapted to the needs of individuals with this syndrome. Seeing Verónica’s genuine call from God, she interpreted it as her personal mission. Together, they began living a shared life, laying the foundation for what is now a community of about ten sisters.

Mother Line believed that this way of life would attract other young women, and her hopes began to materialize. The community gradually grew, and in 1995, the Little Sisters moved to Le Blanc, in the Indre region of central France.

In 1999, Archbishop Pierre Plateau formally approved the initiative as an institute of contemplative life. Later, on December 15, 2011, Archbishop Armand Maillard of Bourges approved the institute’s constitutions.

Today, the community comprises eight sisters with Down syndrome and two «able-bodied» sisters. This presents challenges for the latter, as sisters with this condition require special support. However, as Mother Line explains, the sisters with Down syndrome achieve autonomy through their contemplative lifestyle, which allows them to follow a regular and predictable rhythm. “For them, changes are difficult, but when life is very orderly, they manage it remarkably well.”

The sisters engage in various activities, such as weaving and ceramics workshops, and maintain a medicinal plant garden. They embrace the simplicity of religious life inspired by Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, who serves as their role model.

Sister Verónica, one of the founders, shares her testimony:

“It has been 34 years since I felt Jesus’ call. I have sought to know Him through reading the Bible and the Gospel. I was born with a disability called Down syndrome. I am happy and love life. I pray, but it saddens me that other children with Down syndrome cannot feel this same joy of living. Jesus made me grow in His love. After being rejected by other communities, my greatest joy came on June 20, 2009, when I made my perpetual vows in the Institute of the Little Sisters Disciples of the Lamb. It is my greatest happiness: to be the bride of Jesus.”

While the sisters face physical and mental limitations, they are spiritually boundless. Mother Line emphasizes the incredible spiritual strength of the sisters with Down syndrome. “They know the Bible, the lives of the saints, and have an extraordinary memory. They are souls of prayer, profoundly spiritual, and very close to Jesus. Their souls are not disabled; on the contrary, they seem closer to the Lord, with whom they communicate with astonishing ease. The able-bodied sisters in the community especially admire their ability to forgive and to encourage others with precise words from the Bible that brighten the day.”

This religious community reminds us of the transcendence of the human spirit in a world that often values people only for their productivity. These sisters defy that logic, showing the beauty of a life whose worth cannot be measured by material standards. Their capacity to love and closeness to God show that they are not disadvantaged souls because of their condition but profoundly loved by Him.

“Certainly, it is a world to discover,” concludes Mother Line. “They bring joy to society and, above all, offer the love the world so desperately needs.”

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John Traynor’s journey was marked by suffering, resilience, and unwavering faith. Born in Liverpool to an Irish mother, he enlisted in the Royal Navy at the onset of World War I. The brutal conflict left him severely wounded on multiple occasions. First injured near Antwerp in 1914, he later sustained devastating injuries during the ill-fated Gallipoli campaign in 1915. By 1923, Traynor was paralyzed, epileptic, and partially blind, with a body ravaged by numerous failed surgeries.

Despite his deteriorating health and the skepticism of both doctors and clergy, Traynor joined a pilgrimage to Lourdes, accompanying the inaugural delegation from Liverpool’s archdiocese. His determination defied medical prognosis and the counsel of those around him, as he firmly believed that if he were to die, Lourdes was the best place to do so.

On July 25, 1923, Traynor experienced what would later be deemed miraculous. After being immersed in the sacred baths and participating in the Eucharistic procession, he found himself completely healed. The transformation was immediate and undeniable. Medical professionals present on the pilgrimage confirmed his recovery on the spot.

Returning to Liverpool, Traynor’s life took on a new mission. He devoted himself to serving others, becoming a stretcher-bearer for annual pilgrimages to Lourdes until the outbreak of World War II. His robust health, humble demeanor, and steadfast faith became a source of inspiration for those who knew him.

Traynor’s healing was first submitted to the Bureau des Constatations Médicales in 1926, where it was meticulously examined. However, it took over a century for the Church to formally declare it a miracle, a decision announced by Archbishop Malcolm McMahon of Liverpool in 2024.

What makes this story so compelling is not only the miraculous healing itself but also the life Traynor led afterward. Despite his physical hardships, he remained virtuous, selfless, and deeply faithful. His simple yet profound devotion to the Virgin Mary and the Eucharist had roots in his mother’s piety, which left an indelible mark on him.

John Traynor’s story is more than a tale of divine intervention—it is a narrative of human perseverance, the enduring power of faith, and the mysteries of grace. Today, his miracle serves as a reminder of hope and the potential for transformation, even when all seems lost.

In Lourdes, where millions have sought solace and healing, the recognition of this 71st miracle adds yet another chapter to the sanctuary’s legacy, affirming that faith often moves at its own pace, but always with purpose.

In this link you can read the position of the Lourdes Shrine and then the official pronouncement of the Archbishop of Liverpool.

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A Symbol of Sustainability and Innovation

The electric Papamobile represents a union of cutting-edge technology and longstanding partnership. For nearly a century, Mercedes-Benz has provided vehicles for the Vatican, with the iconic G-Class serving as the foundation for the Papamobile for the past 45 years. This newest iteration, tailored specifically to the Pope’s unique needs, operates with zero local emissions, aligning with the message of Pope Francis’s encyclical Laudato Si, which advocates for sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

Speaking at the delivery, Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, highlighted the significance of this moment:

“The new Papamobile is not only a symbol of our dedication to innovation and craftsmanship but also a call for sustainability. We are honored to provide Pope Francis with a vehicle that embodies our vision of electromobility while maintaining the bespoke elegance and functionality required for his public appearances.”

A Bespoke Creation for a Global Mission

Developed over a year by teams in Graz, Sindelfingen, and Rome, the vehicle integrates advanced electric propulsion technology with the custom features required for papal duties. Highlights include:

• Custom Seating: A centrally positioned, height-adjustable seat allows the Pope to address crowds from various angles, accompanied by two additional seats for attendants.
• Enhanced Design: The vehicle’s rear section has been entirely reconfigured, with seamless integration of a custom-built roof and restructured rear doors.
• Iconic Appearance: Finished in classic pearl white, the Papamobile maintains its iconic aesthetic while advancing into a sustainable future.

This handcrafted model incorporates the latest EQ technology, designed for the low-speed, high-visibility appearances that define papal events. Its electric drivetrain leverages the benefits of four-motor all-wheel drive, ensuring both stability and efficiency.

Celebrating a Shared Legacy

The event also honored Mercedes-Benz’s longstanding relationship with the Vatican. This collaboration began in 1930 with the delivery of a Nürburg 460 Pullman Saloon to Pope Pius XI and has evolved to meet the needs of each pontificate. Vehicles such as the 300 SEL Landaulet and the 460 G-Class Papamobile have become iconic symbols of papal outreach.

A Unique Invitation

In a gesture of appreciation, Pope Francis invited the development teams from Graz, Sindelfingen, and Rome to the Vatican for the vehicle’s unveiling. These individuals—representing design, engineering, production, and marketing—were lauded for their dedication and craftsmanship.

Marc Langenbrinck, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Italy, described the experience as transformative:

“Delivering this vehicle to the Pope is not just a professional milestone; it is deeply personal. It represents a year of passion, innovation, and teamwork. This is a story we will proudly share with future generations.”

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