CATHOLIC FAITH

Saint Stephen, the first martyr By Edward Matulanya  Discover the Feast of Saint Stephen, the first martyr of the Church, celebrated December 26 with Sacred Scripture, tradition, and faith. 1. History and Significance of Saint Stephen in the Catholic Church  The Feast of Saint Stephen is celebrated on December 26, immediately after Christmas Day. In the Roman Catholic liturgical calendar , this placement highlights the inseparable connection between the joy of Christ’s Nativity and the cost of discipleship. The Church teaches that, authentic Christian witness flows directly from the Incarnation and may require suffering for the sake of truth (USCCB, 2023; CCC, 519, 2019). By commemorating a martyr so close to Christmas, the Church reminds the faithful that the Child born in Bethlehem is the same Christ who calls His followers to take up the Cross (Roman Missal, 2011). For e xample, the inclusion of Saint Stephen within the Christmas Octave reinforces the teaching that Christ...

Image of Magi offering gifts to Jesus Christ  By Edward Matulanya  Discover what the Christmas Octave is, why Catholics celebrate Christmas for eight days, and how the Church lives the mystery of the Incarnation. 1. What Is the Christmas Octave in the Catholic Church? The Christmas Octave is an eight-day liturgical celebration extending from December 25 to January 1, during which the Roman Catholic Church celebrates the Nativity of the Lord as a single, continuous solemnity (Paul VI, 1969; Roman Missal, 2011). Each day is liturgically designated as “within the Octave of Christmas,” indicating that the Church does not move beyond Christmas but rather dwells within its mystery (USCCB, 2023).  This practice reflects the Church’s understanding that the Incarnation is a central and inexhaustible mystery of faith, deserving prolonged celebration and contemplation (CCC, 1997, §525–526). For e xample,  Christmas Prefaces I–III may be used throughout the Octave (Roman Missal...

Image of new born Jesus Christ surrounded by Angels By Edward Matulanya  Discover the Roman Catholic celebration of the Solemnity of the Birth of Jesus Christ. Explore the Nativity story, liturgical traditions, prayers, symbols, and global customs that highlight the spiritual meaning of Christmas. 1. Introduction to the Solemnity of the Birth of Jesus Christ The Solemnity of the Birth of Jesus Christ, or Christmas, celebrates the moment God became human (the Incarnation). It is the pinnacle of the liturgical year, emphasizing that God entered human history to redeem mankind. The Church invites Catholics to contemplate both the historical and spiritual dimensions of the birth of Christ (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997, §§525–527; John Paul II, 1980). For e xample,  Catholics begin the season with Advent , a period of preparation marked by prayer , penance , and anticipation of Christ’s coming (CCC, 1997, §§524–525). Also,  Churches are adorned with Nativity s...

Image of Saint Tarsilla/Tharsilla By Edward Matulanya  Discover the life, virtues, and legacy of Saint Tarsilla/Tharsilla, the Roman virgin saint venerated in the Catholic Church. Learn about her feast day, devotion, and role as a model of faith, purity, and early Christian virtue. 1. Saint Tarsilla; Life and Legacy of the Roman Virgin Saint Tarsilla is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church as a virgin who dedicated her life entirely to God . Her life exemplifies steadfast faith , moral integrity, and the choice of spiritual over worldly pursuits, which is central to Catholic teaching on sanctity (Farmer, 2011; Bunson, 2014). For e xample, her legacy inspires young Catholics to embrace purity and service to God, often referenced in catechetical programs. 2. Who Was Saint Tarsilla? Roman Catholic Virgin and Martyr Tarsilla is recognized as a model of virginity and holiness, representing the Catholic ideal of consecrated life. While not widely documented as a martyr, her spiritual m...

Image of Saint John of Kanty By Edward Matulanya  Learn about Saint John of Kanty, a Polish priest and scholar canonized by the Roman Catholic Church. Discover his life, acts of charity, miracles, and legacy as the patron saint of students and scholars. Explore prayers, feast day celebrations, and his enduring influence in Poland and beyond. 1. Introduction to Saint John of Kanty Saint John of Kanty (1390–1473) was a Polish priest, theologian, and professor known for his devotion , scholarship, and care for the poor. Recognized as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church, he became an enduring example of faith and humility. His life blends scholarship with piety, inspiring generations of Catholics (Catholic Online, 2023; Farmer, 2011). For example, he spent decades teaching at the Jagiellonian University while also dedicating time to helping the poor in Kraków. 2. Early Life and Education Born in Kanty, Poland, John came from a devout family. From an early age, he showed a love for le...

Image of a Parish collect gifts for those in need By Edward Matulanya  Explore the Catholic understanding of love, from God’s self-giving agape to family, friendship, and sacrificial love. Learn how Advent traditions inspire compassion, forgiveness, and service in everyday life. 1. What Catholic Teaching Says About the True Meaning of Love In Catholic theology, love (charity) is the highest theological virtue. It means willing and doing the good of others, rooted in God’s own nature (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997). For  example, Advent is a time for Catholics to practice intentional acts of kindness, prayer, and generosity as they prepare to welcome Christ. 2. The Four Types of Love in Catholic Tradition; Agape, Eros, Philia, and Storge Catholic thinkers, drawing on Sacred Scripture and classical philosophy, often describe four loves; agape (self-giving love), eros (rightly ordered desire), philia (friendship), and storge (family affection) (Lewis, 1960). For...

Image of Saint Flavian of Acquapendente By Edward Matulanya  Discover the life and legacy of Saint Flavian of Acquapendente, a revered Roman Catholic martyr. Learn about his faith, martyrdom, feast day, and enduring spiritual significance in Catholic tradition.  1. Introduction of Saint Flavian of Acquapendente Saint Flavian of Acquapendente is a revered Roman Catholic martyr celebrated for his unwavering faith and sacrifice. His story highlights the courage of early Christians who faced persecution for their beliefs. This article explores Saint Flavian’s life, martyrdom, and enduring spiritual legacy, making him an important figure in Catholic history and devotion (Butler, 1997; Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1997). 2. Biography of Saint Flavian, Catholic Martyr from Acquapendente Saint Flavian lived in Acquapendente, Italy, during the Roman Empire when Christianity was often persecuted. Although historical details are limited, the Church recognizes him as a martyr who s...