Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church

THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD Most of us have felt on occasion that things were going so badly that we just wished we could start all over! A second chance! Or maybe your life is not going that well and you realize that you are just not the person you should be. […]

The post New Life in Christ appeared first on Integrated Catholic Life™.

CNA Staff, Jan 11, 2025 / 19:45 pm (CNA).

U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Pope Francis on Saturday and named him a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction, the White House said in a statement.

As the nation’s highest honor, the medal is “presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public, or private endeavors,” the statement said.

This is the first time Biden has awarded the medal “with distinction,” according to the statement.

“The first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis is unlike any who came before,” the statement continued. “Above all, he is the People’s Pope — a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world.”

“For decades, [Jorge Bergoglio] served the voiceless and vulnerable across Argentina,” the White House statement said. “As Pope Francis, his mission of serving the poor has never ceased. A loving pastor, he joyfully answers children’s questions about God. A challenging teacher, he commands us to fight for peace and protect the planet. A welcoming leader, he reaches out to different faiths.”

Earlier this week, Biden canceled his planned trip to Rome and a visit with Pope Francis in order to address the ongoing deadly wildfires in California. Biden was set to travel to Rome from Jan. 9–12 at Pope Francis’ invitation. His audience with the Holy Father was set for Jan. 10.

The president’s meeting with the pope was set to focus on efforts to advance peace around the world. Biden was also scheduled to meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Biden last met with Pope Francis in June of last year where the two discussed foreign policy in Israel, Gaza, and the Ukraine as well as climate change.

During a private audience at the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy, the two leaders “emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and a hostage deal” in Gaza and the need to “address the critical humanitarian crisis,” according to the White House.

CNA senior editor Daniel Payne contributed to this report.

CNA Staff, Jan 11, 2025 / 19:45 pm (CNA).

U.S. President Joe Biden spoke with Pope Francis on Saturday and named him a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction, the White House said in a statement.

As the nation’s highest honor, the medal is “presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public, or private endeavors,” the statement said.

This is the first time Biden has awarded the medal “with distinction,” according to the statement.

“The first pope from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis is unlike any who came before,” the statement continued. “Above all, he is the People’s Pope — a light of faith, hope, and love that shines brightly across the world.”

“For decades, [Jorge Bergoglio] served the voiceless and vulnerable across Argentina,” the White House statement said. “As Pope Francis, his mission of serving the poor has never ceased. A loving pastor, he joyfully answers children’s questions about God. A challenging teacher, he commands us to fight for peace and protect the planet. A welcoming leader, he reaches out to different faiths.”

Earlier this week, Biden canceled his planned trip to Rome and a visit with Pope Francis in order to address the ongoing deadly wildfires in California. Biden was set to travel to Rome from Jan. 9–12 at Pope Francis’ invitation. His audience with the Holy Father was set for Jan. 10.

The president’s meeting with the pope was set to focus on efforts to advance peace around the world. Biden was also scheduled to meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Biden last met with Pope Francis in June of last year where the two discussed foreign policy in Israel, Gaza, and the Ukraine as well as climate change.

During a private audience at the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy, the two leaders “emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire and a hostage deal” in Gaza and the need to “address the critical humanitarian crisis,” according to the White House.

CNA senior editor Daniel Payne contributed to this report.

A Daily Quote to Inspire Your Catholic Faith “Always be convincing witnesses to the truth. ‘Stir into a flame the gift of God’ that has been bestowed upon you in Baptism. Light your nation – light the world – with the power of that flame!” – Pope Saint John Paul II, Eucharistic Celebration, Camden Yards, […]

The post Daily Catholic Quote—Saint John Paul II appeared first on Integrated Catholic Life™.

St. Benedict Biscop was born around 628 in Northumbria (modern-day England). Originally from a noble background, he left a life of privilege to pursue greater devotion and learning. Making multiple pilgrimages to Rome, he returned home each time with books, sacred art, and scholarly companions to enrich the Church in Britain. St. Benedict founded the […]

ENCOUNTERING THE WORD — YOUR DAILY BIBLE VERSES “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.” – Isaiah 60:1 Please help spread the Gospel. Share this verse with family and friends on Facebook and other social media. We need your support… Can you give as little […]

The post Your Daily Bible Verses — Isaiah 60:1 appeared first on Integrated Catholic Life™.

CNA Newsroom, Jan 11, 2025 / 16:17 pm (CNA).

Pope Francis made an unannounced visit to Fondazione Roma on Jan. 11, where he praised the foundation’s charitable work supporting humanitarian projects worldwide.

Founded on principles of solidarity and subsidiarity, Fondazione Roma is a cornerstone of Italy’s philanthropic landscape.

During his Saturday afternoon visit to the foundation’s headquarters at Palazzo Sciarra Colonna, the pope met with leadership and blessed a small chapel within the historic building, reported ACI Stampa, CNA‘s Italian-language news partner.

According to a statement released after the visit, Francis expressed gratitude for the foundation’s “profound institutional commitment,” emphasizing “the importance of providing free access across all sectors, especially in culture.”

In a lighter moment, the pontiff underscored the value of humor in life, sharing his daily habit of reciting a prayer for having a sense of humor — often attributed to St. Thomas More — as he has in other encounters.

Foundation President Franco Parasassi recalled the pope’s recent surprise visit to Palazzo Cipolla to view Marc Chagall’s “White Crucifixion.”

The foundation, established in 1500 as the Monte di Pietà di Roma through a papal bull of Pope Paul III, continues its mission of solidarity and subsidiarity through projects across five sectors: health care, scientific research, assistance to vulnerable social groups, education and training, and arts and culture.

During the visit, the foundation gave Francis an overview of its far-reaching humanitarian initiatives. These include disaster relief efforts in Argentina’s Bahia Blanca region, aiding populations affected by recent devastating storms, and maternal health projects in Togo’s Archdiocese of Lomé, where they are providing ultrasound equipment for pregnant women.

Additional initiatives address socio-health care challenges in Bethlehem, support war-affected populations in Lebanon and Ukraine, and strengthen traditional collaborations with Caritas and the Diocese of Rome, particularly aiding peripheral parishes.

CNA Newsroom, Jan 11, 2025 / 16:17 pm (CNA).

Pope Francis made an unannounced visit to Fondazione Roma on Jan. 11, where he praised the foundation’s charitable work supporting humanitarian projects worldwide.

Founded on principles of solidarity and subsidiarity, Fondazione Roma is a cornerstone of Italy’s philanthropic landscape.

During his Saturday afternoon visit to the foundation’s headquarters at Palazzo Sciarra Colonna, the pope met with leadership and blessed a small chapel within the historic building, reported ACI Stampa, CNA‘s Italian-language news partner.

According to a statement released after the visit, Francis expressed gratitude for the foundation’s “profound institutional commitment,” emphasizing “the importance of providing free access across all sectors, especially in culture.”

In a lighter moment, the pontiff underscored the value of humor in life, sharing his daily habit of reciting a prayer for having a sense of humor — often attributed to St. Thomas More — as he has in other encounters.

Foundation President Franco Parasassi recalled the pope’s recent surprise visit to Palazzo Cipolla to view Marc Chagall’s “White Crucifixion.”

The foundation, established in 1500 as the Monte di Pietà di Roma through a papal bull of Pope Paul III, continues its mission of solidarity and subsidiarity through projects across five sectors: health care, scientific research, assistance to vulnerable social groups, education and training, and arts and culture.

During the visit, the foundation gave Francis an overview of its far-reaching humanitarian initiatives. These include disaster relief efforts in Argentina’s Bahia Blanca region, aiding populations affected by recent devastating storms, and maternal health projects in Togo’s Archdiocese of Lomé, where they are providing ultrasound equipment for pregnant women.

Additional initiatives address socio-health care challenges in Bethlehem, support war-affected populations in Lebanon and Ukraine, and strengthen traditional collaborations with Caritas and the Diocese of Rome, particularly aiding peripheral parishes.

Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jan 11, 2025 / 13:00 pm (CNA).

The cause for canonization of Argentine businessman Enrique Shaw took another step forward this week as the alleged miracle attributed to his intercession passed the medical stage and will now be evaluated by a commission of theologians of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints.

The vice postulator of the cause and the military bishop of Argentina, Santiago Olivera, informed the Argentine news agency AICA of the development.

The prelate explained from Rome that the miracle “has passed the medical consultation, but we must be very cautious because the process continues with the commission of theologians and then with the bishops and cardinals.”

“Once this happens, if everything goes well, Cardinal [Marcello Semeraro, prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints] will present to the Holy Father the permission to announce the decree of his beatification,” Olivera added.

Although there are still several steps to take, the vice postulator indicated Thursday that “today was a very important day. It passed the medical phase regarding what was presented about the healing.”

“We continue to pray,” he said and encouraged the faithful “to wait and be very respectful of the following stages.”

Who is the venerable Servant of God Enrique Shaw?

Enrique Shaw Tornquist was a layman, businessman, husband, and father. He was born on Feb. 26, 1921, in Paris. Shortly after, his family moved to Argentina.

He belonged to the Naval Military School, where he carried out an apostolate with great dedication.

In 1943 he married Cecilia Bunge, with whom he had nine children. In 1945 he asked to be discharged from the Argentine Navy for the purpose of becoming a worker and carrying out an apostolate among the working class.

He promoted the creation of the Christian Association of Business Leaders and died on Aug. 27, 1962, at the age of 41 from cancer.

In 1997, the preliminary stage for the opening of the canonization process began, and 10 years later the formal opening of the cause was presented.

The diocesan phase was concluded in 2013, and in 2014 the documentation was sent to Rome.

In 2020, documents were submitted in Rome for the diocesan investigation into the alleged miracle attributed to the intercession of Shaw.

On April 24, 2021, Pope Francis approved the decree that recognizes Shaw’s heroic virtues, declaring him “venerable.”

This story was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA’s Spanish-language news partner. It has been translated and adapted by CNA.

CNA Staff, Jan 11, 2025 / 10:00 am (CNA).

A new movie telling the true story of an Armenian family who was forced to flee their home country of Azerbaijan amid political turmoil will be in theaters Jan. 26–28.

The Petrosyans — made up of husband and wife Ivan and Violetta and their two daughters Olga and Julia — inspired the new film “Between Borders,” which depicts the real-life events the family endured while fleeing their home in Baku, Azerbaijan, during the anti-Armenian massacre that took place in the late 1980s.

Experiencing discrimination in their home country and then in Russia, the country to which they fled, the Petrosyans eventually found hope in a church established by American missionaries. There they came to the faith and were helped to seek refuge in the United States.

CNA spoke to Violetta and Olga Petrosyan about their experience fleeing persecution and how they came to find refuge in Christ along the way.

Olga, who was only 4 years old when the violence broke out, said watching their story depicted in a movie has been “healing.”

“Growing up, when you end up going through all of those tribulations, you don’t know that there is a life not lived like this,” she explained. “You think that this is how everyone probably lived their life, but the older you get and the more normal your life becomes away from all the hardships, you understand how much you’ve gone through in your childhood and teenage years that affected you in many different traumatic ways.” 

She pointed out that by watching their story now in a movie format with others who are “processing your story with you” it feels as though “you are seen and known and you are affirmed in some of those situations where you felt it wasn’t as bad — no, it was as bad because you can hear other people processing it out loud so it becomes healing.”

Violetta added that it was “a mix of emotions” watching their story on the big screen.

“It was so intense, so many emotions, bringing back memories — at the same time, in awe and wonder that God actually made it happen,” she said.

She explained that there are moments from your past “that you want to forget but you also don’t want to forget because there’s some aspect in life that still shows you how God brought you through, even at the moments when we didn’t know him. So, that’s how important it is that you understand that his hand was always protecting our family.”

While in Volgograd, Russia, after fleeing Azerbaijan, the family began to attend a church established by American missionaries and it was there that Violetta experienced a conversion.

She shared that she was taught by her grandmother at a young age to always make the sign of the cross and say the Lord’s Prayer before bed but her grandmother never spoke about God.

As she became an adult, Violetta became a member of the Communist Party and even led a Communist Party organization at the school she taught at.

“We were raised in the Communist era and we learned that there is no God, that God is evil. I would protect children from going to church because I said that it doesn’t exist,” she shared. “I still don’t know how I was saying that.”

“When God came into our life in Volgograd through the missionaries that was the immediate click and I realized that I’ve always known that God existed but I pushed him away from me and then it actually happened — my conversion happened on the 6th of October, on my physical birthday.”

Olga added: “I saw my family before Christ and then I saw my family after Christ and the difference that it makes to be united in Christ in the midst of hopelessness, around the circumstances, makes everything different. We still had the same tribulations after we came to Jesus, but we had this center, which was Christ binding us all together, that we knew that no matter what, we can do this with Christ who gives us strength.”

“It was Jesus that made the whole difference for me,” Olga said. “The world can give us temporary labels and I think we all carry some sort of labels that were given to us by people of this world. And I’ve carried those labels as a ‘foreigner,’ ‘unwanted,’ ‘refugee,’ ‘dirty,’ but I got one label from the Lord and that’s the one that will stick with me through eternity and that’s ‘child of God.’” 

Olga hopes that “Between Borders” will help shed light not on the political conflict but on what hatred does to people.

“It’s not ‘Oh, look at what Azeris have done.’ I think for me it’s important, at least, that it’s more ‘Look what evil that is fostered, or hatred that is fostered, between two nationalities can do, what it can lead to,” she explained. “But at the same time, look what God can do despite and through that … There’s always hatred between two … and it’s fostered and it bursts more hatred and it bursts destruction and tragedy, but look what God can do.”

Violetta added that she hopes viewers will see that “there is always forgiveness.”

“No matter how hard the events were in that conflict … no matter how severe it is, love and forgiveness always conquer.”

Check theater listings near you for showtimes.

CNA's video interview with Violetta and Olga Petrosyan can be watched below.