Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira

Dignity and Distinction for Both Great and Small

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Dignity and Distinction for Both Great and Small 1

Sir Winston Churchill – born of an American mother and an English father – reached the apex of human greatness in his country, and attained it deservedly by his exceptional talents, the unusual scope of his personality, and the merit of the many services he rendered his country during the course of … Read more

Was Youth Made for Pleasure or Heroism?

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Was Youth Made for Pleasure or Heroism?

With the guitar hanging around his neck and the microphone in his hand, Elvis Presley is shown in the photo singing and dancing before a frenzied public. In man, the intelligence ought to direct the will, and both of them should in turn enlighten the sensibility, guiding it and supporting it to … Read more

Are Museums Sepulchers for Culture?

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Are Museums Sepulchers for Culture? 1

Who has not felt the frustration that typically assails one after visiting a large museum? Wandering through the rooms and galleries where rare objects and masterpieces are exhibited, the soul expands and is enriched by the contemplation of a thousand marvels. Yet, at the same time, a sensation of emptiness, unnaturalness and … Read more

Our Lord’s Internal Struggle and Ours

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Our Lord’s Internal Struggle and Ours 1

The following text is an excerpt from a lecture given by Professor Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira on March 31, 1984. It has been translated and adapted for publishing without Prof. de Oliveira’s revision. –Ed. There are five sorrowful mysteries of the rosary. Each represents a different aspect of Our Lord’s Passion. Rather … Read more

Saint Gemma Galgani

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Saint Gemma Galgani 4

This photograph is of Saint Gemma Galgani (1878-1903), a famous mystic who lived in the enchanting town of Lucca, Italy. Her countenance is impressive for several reasons. First, we note her profound reflection and the harmony of her traits. Second, the saint’s gaze has something elevated and sublime about it. Her thoughts … Read more

Developing a Catholic Sense

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Developing a Catholic Sense

Catholic doctrine is one thing and Catholic sense another. There are several points where Catholic doctrine is applied with great advantage when it is aided by Catholic sense. Catholic doctrine does not condemn priestly marriage. But Catholic sense, profoundly identified with the thought of the Church, understands that in the real world, … Read more

Gathered ’round the Manger

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Gathered 'round the Manger 2

Once again, Lord, Christmas approaches. Christianity hastens again to adore Thee in the manger at Bethlehem, where Thou can be seen by the light of the twinkling star or under the brighter and more splendorous light of the maternal and sweet gaze of Mary. Saint Joseph stands nearby, so captivated by Thee … Read more

When Society is Corrupt, Is There a Solution?

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When Society is Corrupt, Is There a Solution? 2

A while back, the Italian Parliament voted to overturn prison sentences for politicians convicted of receiving illegal campaign contributions in light of unprecedented scandals. The legislation established that illegal contributions to political campaigns were no longer crimes but simply “civil offenses,” where those convicted would no longer be arrested but fined. All … Read more