Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira 
January 3 is the feast of Saint Genevieve, virgin (422-500). We will read a short biographical account of some episodes of her extraordinary life: Genevieve was famous worldwide. While still living, her renown and virtues were already known even in the East. Atop his column, Saint Simeon Stylites had a vision of this … Read more
January 1 is the feast of the Circumcision of Our Lord Jesus Christ. In this regard, the Gospel says: “And after eight days were accomplished, that the child should be circumcised, his name was called JESUS, which was called by the angel, before he was conceived in the womb” (Luke 2:21). We might also … Read more
The noted Abbot Prosper Guéranger comments on a passage from Saint Bernard’s Sermon of the Feast of the Holy Innocents. Saint Bernard notes: “In Saint Stephen, we have both the act and the desire of martyrdom; in Saint John, we have but the desire; in the Holy Innocents we have but the … Read more
As Christmas approaches, let us make some considerations about this great feast. What were Our Lady’s thoughts on Christmas Day? What did Christmas represent for Our Lady? We must consider that Our Lady carried Our Lord within herself as in a tabernacle. She evidently had the greatest intimacy with Him; she maintained … Read more
Let us read a short biographical sketch about Saint Luke that will give us elements to comment on his life and works. Luke was born in Antioch to a pagan family. He undoubtedly converted in the year 40. Having met him at Troas, Saint Paul took him as a companion on his … Read more
Sometimes you hear and learn things while napping. In the relaxed ambiance of a resort, imagine a tourist enjoying a full-month vacation stretching out in a comfortable easy chair where he closes his eyes for a nap. He gently lets his memory wander in search of comforting memories that will be enticing … Read more
I will deal with a subject, which will benefit many who receive Communion. Indeed, I have the pleasure of seeing many people go to Communion often. As to the number of Communions, they are excellent. However, what can be said about their quality? When dealing with Communion, quality, more than in any … Read more
August 25 is the feast of Saint Louis, King of France, a model of Catholic statesmen, who participated in two crusades. Dom Prosper Guéranger (1805-1875), the famous Abbot of Solesmes, makes some excellent commentaries about Saint Louis. From the pen of this great Catholic writer, one of the most important churchmen of … Read more
At first glance, nationalism and patriotism seem synonymous. However, the concepts are two poles, two extremes, two irreconcilably antagonistic ideas. Patriotism expresses a sense of fidelity to a people and especially to its traditional authority. It is a virtue close to filial piety, by which children love, honor and serve their parents. … Read more
The apparitions of Our Lady to a poor shepherdess, Benoîte Rencurel (1664-1718) in Laus, France are special. They involve the simplicity of a young woman and the attitude of Our Lady regarding virtue. At a young age, Benoîte already showed great virtue. Her childhood is filled with extraordinary supernatural episodes. One day, … Read more