Corpus Christi
The solemnity of the institution of the Holy Eucharist

It is an article of faith that, in the Eucharist, Jesus Christ is truly, really and substantially present, with his body, blood, soul and divinity. At the last supper, Jesus Christ himself said to the apostles: “Take this and eat of it, this is my body which is given for you: do this in remembrance of me” and this is what the Holy Church teaches with infallibility. Besides, throughout the history of the Church, many miracles took place that testify to the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Whoever truly believes in Holy Communion does not let a day pass without receiving it. Our human nature urges us to always be close to and united with those we love and we experience great sadness when we are separated from them. Thus, a person of faith who is convinced of the presence of Christ in the Eucharist and who holds him as the only object of his heart, experiences much consolation when receiving Holy Communion, and the only sorrow of his heart is when deprived of this divine food. This sacrament is weapon against sin and woe to him who receives it unworthily! Jesus Christ is not only wholly found in Holy Communion under the species of bread but equally under the species of wine.  And, although we eat Holy Communion, we do not crush him or destroy him, but we receive him entire and completely; and although we receive him, we do not consummate him; as it makes no difference whether it is just one person receiving communion or many. This is the wonder of the omnipotence of Christ: that it is always the same Christ, the one who is found at the right hand of the Father is also found in every fragment of consecrated bread. Do not think that when the host is broken the body of Christ is broken, but only the species are broken, and, although Christ is complete in each and every little piece, Christ is always one. Only two things can keep us away from Holy Communion: mortal sin and not observing the Eucharistic fast. The apostle St Paul teaches us that whoever receives the eucharist unworthily, he is also receiving his own condemnation. If, therefore, you consider yourself guilty of a mortal sin, refrain from receiving Holy Communion until you have been absolved of your sins through the sacrament of Confession, even in cases when there is no priest available and even if you consider yourself justified with perfect repentance. Regarding fasting before Holy Communion, remember that you must fast for one hour immediately before receiving Communion.   Conclusion Dear brother, would a person dare to come forward to receive such a sublime sacrament in a state of mortal sin, if they truly believed that God himself made man is in the host? Therefore, how come you do not fear when you think that you are going to receive God within you, he who is so great and you who are so small, or, rather, you are nothing? Always approach Holy Communion with a pure heart, free even from venial sin, and, above all, with a spirit of true charity towards your neighbour who has offended you, and of peace if it was you who have offended anyone. It is better not to receive Holy Communion than to receive it unworthily.   adapted from the book Taħdit għat-Tfal (Talks for Children) (Nr. 20) by St George Preca

Life: My Story Through History (2024) provides an insightful and comprehensive look into the life and impact of Pope Francis. The biography traces his journey from his early years in Buenos Aires to his transformative role as the leader of the Catholic Church. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and historical context, the book vividly portrays the key moments that shaped his character and philosophy. The narrative highlights Pope Francis's deep commitment to humility, social justice, and service. It details his formative experiences, including his work during Argentina's Dirty War and his pastoral efforts in impoverished neighborhoods, which significantly influenced his worldview. The biography also covers his unexpected election in 2013 and the significant initiatives of his papacy, such as environmental stewardship, interfaith dialogue, and addressing economic inequality. Overall, Life: My Story Through History is a compelling and essential read for those interested in Pope Francis's life and his profound impact on the Catholic Church and global society. We must not forget the most important lesson: we can revisit the story of our life to remember and be able to transmit something to those who listen to us. But, to learn to live, we all have to learn to love. Pope Francis

Towards the end of the second world war, a boy from Ħamrun, who was an elect an the SDC Centre of the same town, was seriously ill. When Fr. George got to know about this situation, he himself went to the boy's house to administer Holy Communion to him. As soon as Fr. George raised the host, he asked the boy: "Who is this?". "That’s the Lord Jesus", answered the boy. After this inspiring act of faith, the boy received communion and Fr. George blessed a crucifix in articolo mortis (indulgence at the time of death). After some days, the boy had to be taken to the central hospital in Floriana. His father went to visit him and his son quickly asked him, "Father, did you bring me the crucifix that Fr George blessed for me?". As his father had not brought the crucifix with him, he returned home to fulfil the boy's wish. The crucifix was delivered to the boy who, eventually, died embracing it. Is your faith in the eucharist as strong as this boy’s? Do you strongly believe that the Eucharist is the same Lord Jesus? Would you like to be embraced by your greatest friend Jesus Christ? Are you struggling hard to have Jesus closer to you by receiving the Eucharist?

Catechesis has played a pivotal role in the Catholic Church's mission to educate and nurture the faithful throughout history. Various popes have significantly contributed to the development and enhancement of catechetical instruction, each bringing unique initiatives and perspectives. From Pope Pius X's foundational reforms in the early 20th century to Pope Francis' modern directives, the evolution of catechesis reflects a deep commitment to teaching the faith. This overview highlights the key contributions of selected popes and their lasting impact on catechetical practices within the Church.   Pope (St.) Pius X - In 1905, Pope Pius X's encyclical Acerbo nimis established the Congregation of Christian Doctrine and parish Sunday catechisms, emphasizing religious education for children and promoting frequent Holy Communion.   Pope Pius XI - Pope Pius XI's 1935 Decree Provido sane created Diocesan Catechetical Offices and the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) in every parish. It mandated local ordinaries to report on catechetical work, fostering the development of diocesan catechetical infrastructure.   Influence on the Archdiocese of Jaro - Msgr. Jose Ma. Cuenco, DD of Jaro, was inspired by personal encounters with Popes Pius XI and XII to enhance catechetical efforts, leading to the establishment of the Pius XII Institute of Catechetics and Social Studies in 1959.   Pope (St.) Paul VI - Pope Paul VI's General Catechetical Directory (GCD) in 1971 emphasized the importance of catechesis and called for the Synod that produced Evangelii nuntiandi (1975), focusing on modern evangelization.   Pope (St.) John Paul II - Pope John Paul II, known as the "Catechist of the World," issued Catechesi Tradendae (1979) and the second General Directory for Catechesis (1997), promoting organized and well-resourced catechesis. He also oversaw the Catechism of the Catholic Church (1992).   Pope Benedict XVI - Pope Benedict XVI led the commission for the Catechism of the Catholic Church and its Compendium. He introduced the Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church (YouCat) in 2010 and established the Pontifical Commission on the Promotion of New Evangelization in 2013.   Pope Francis - Pope Francis signed the third General Directory for Catechesis (DC 2020) and issued Antiquum Ministerium, officially recognizing the ministry of catechists and emphasizing their crucial role in the Church's mission.   Conclusion Pope John Paul II, on October 25, 1985, urged the Philippine bishops to prioritize catechesis, emphasizing its importance for the Christian life and the future of the Church in the Philippines. He encouraged them to continue with renewed energy and courage in catechetical instruction, highlighting the essential role of catechesis in responding to the people's need for the Word of God and Church teachings.   Linda T. Tacorda, Ph.D. (A member of Teresian Association) Professor of Fundamental and Organizational Catechetics at St. Joseph Regional Seminary, Iloilo City, Philippines  

Humility - Wellspring of Virtue is a short book on the quest to sink deeper into the virtue of humility. Written by Dietrich Von Hildebrand, a German Catholic philosopher described by Pope John Paul II as one of the great ethicists. Hildebrand explores humility as the foundation of all virtues, emphasizing its importance for spiritual growth and moral development. True humility, according to Hildebrand, is an authentic acknowledgment of one's limitations and full dependence on God, contrasting with false humility and pride. He argues that without humility, virtues like charity and patience cannot fully manifest. The book challenges modern misconceptions, presenting humility as a source of strength rather than weakness. Hildebrand’s clear and methodical approach makes the text accessible to thoughtful readers. While some may find his philosophical depth challenging, the work offers profound insights into the human condition and the path to genuine virtue. Praised in academic and religious circles, it continues to influence those seeking to cultivate humility. Overall, the book is a valuable read for those interested in spiritual growth and inspires a more truthful and humble approach to life.

Without the Holy Spirit nothing that exists, visible or invisible, could be created: because in every creation, that is, in every external operation of God, the three divine persons must necessarily concur: God the Father creates through the Word by the Holy Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit no rational creature can glorify God and obtain merits. Without the Holy Spirit no one can believe, nor hope, nor love, nor repent. Without the Holy Spirit no one can recognize all the deceptions coming from our human nature, from the world and from Satan. Without the Holy Spirit no one can observe the divine law or discern the Spirit of God. Without the Holy Spirit the rational creation is in the state of God's misfortune. Finally, Saint Paul writes in the letter to Corinthians, that “no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit” (12:3). Since man has such a need for the Holy Spirit, he invokes him often: he invokes him for help during temptation, he invokes him for light in the examination of conscience, he invokes him before hearing the Word of God, he invokes him in state of tribulation, invokes him before meditation, invokes him before speaking, invokes him in sickness, invokes him in doubt or in obscure things, invokes him in the time of fear, invokes him in the time of trial , he invokes him during desolation, he invokes him to discern his calling, he invokes him for direction in the spiritual life, he invokes him for forgiveness and for the remission of sins, he invokes him in adversity, he invokes him in the time of anxiety, and the Holy Spirit listens to him firstly because he seeks his glory, secondly because Jesus Christ merited us his grace and finally because he who humbles himself and who trusts in God should not expect confusion. If God himself tells us to invoke him, isn’t it clear that he wants to bestow him on us? Veni, Sancte Spiritus!