tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55236562011-10-12T02:30:41.019-07:00Knowledge and love of God. Getting to know Christ and His faithful servants, the Saints. The blog writes on the lives of the Saints and some theology.Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comBlogger2671100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-47765610962519415792011-01-11T21:15:00.000-08:002011-01-11T21:28:30.437-08:00

Born in Cappadocia, Asia Minor Theodosius was born at Garissus, Cappadocia (from where St. Basil and his family also have their origins) in 423 A.D. In his youth, he made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, where he visited St. Simeon Stylites and was able to learn the ways of Christian sanctification in the East. After this pilgrimage and journey, he entered one of the monasteries existing near

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-26047833543019334912010-01-17T01:25:00.000-08:002010-01-17T01:25:03.114-08:00

Introduction This blog post will conclude the Series on Visionaries, Stigmatics and Incorruptibles. The first part of this concluding blog post will speak of St. Pio of Pietrelcina's stigmata, while the second part will give a brief summary and list of some of the holy men and women whose flesh remain incorrupt to this day. Padre Pio St. Pio of Pietrelcina (d. 1968), a.k.a. Padre Pio, passed

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-45250151041382403202009-11-28T21:05:00.000-08:002009-11-28T21:05:35.165-08:00

St. Francis the Stigmatic This story of St. Francis' stigmatization is based on a biography written by Johannes Jorgensen. This author examined many documents and visited many parts of Italy where St. Francis was known to have lived and preached. His story begins after the Feast of the Assumption, 1224 A.D. When St. Francis withdrew from the Brothers (his companions) to go into still greater

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-19886512121860722412009-11-09T23:07:00.001-08:002009-11-09T23:07:06.715-08:00

The spirit of reform It was a spirit of reform that inspired the monastic revival at Cluny. We will see that this spirit of reform continues to be enkindled among the members of the community as Cluny grew into a very influential force in much of Europe. After the abbacy of St. Odilo, St. Hugh succeeded him, and expanded Cluny even more throughout the rest of Europe. Since what started the

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-815118764537255032009-11-09T19:43:00.001-08:002009-11-09T19:43:34.950-08:00

Brilliant rise and overwhelming influence In the history of the Church, the monastic movement at Cluny owed its brilliant rise and overwhelming influence to both its dynamism and its internal stability. Free from the control of secular magnates, their monastic life was able to develop depth. The monks were much known in the Western community for their emphasis on prayer. Common prayers with

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-86097682483804467922009-11-09T16:19:00.001-08:002009-11-09T16:19:54.108-08:00

Introduction In the previous blog posts, we learned how God uses visionaries to make His message strongly heard in the world. The visionaries we learned about were simple women and a native American man - all of whom never probably thought that they were to become God's instruments in making His Son and the Blessed Virgin Mary more known and loved. Theirs was a unique vocation - to see visions

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-40383374367590174952009-10-28T16:51:00.001-07:002009-10-28T16:51:43.511-07:00

St. Berno After Duke William of Aquitaine founded the monastery of Cluny in ca. 908-910 A.D., he chose St. Berno to be its first abbot. St. Berno came from a wealthy family. Born in Burgundy, he joined the Benedictines at Martin's, Autun, and then became abbot of Baume- les-Messiers. He reformed Baume-les-Messiers and then founded a monastery at Gigny. When Duke William made St. Berno Cluny's

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-9580256239029618552009-10-25T14:18:00.000-07:002011-04-23T23:47:55.951-07:00

IntroductionThe Second Vatican Council was initiated by Pope John XXIII underthe inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit. It was thisecumenical council in the history of the Church, that broughtrenewal and reforms in many aspects of the Church's liturgicallife, spirituality, and theological outlook. The Council renewedthe Church's rootedness in biblical tradition and opened up avision of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-28293619866832581882009-10-25T13:57:00.001-07:002009-10-25T13:57:48.481-07:00

Introduction In one of his addresses, Pope Benedict XVI mentions Peter the Venerable as a good example for our times. Peter the Venerable was one of the great abbots of Cluny - a Benedictine monastery in Burgundy, France, that spearheaded the reform movement in monasticism during the Middle Ages. Duke William of Aquitaine founded Cluny in ca. 908-910 A.D. Duke William saw the need to protect

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-59582670092364335902009-10-18T14:38:00.001-07:002009-10-18T14:38:59.073-07:00

Introduction Two popular devotions to Christ are the Sacred Heart of Jesus devotion, and the devotion to the Divine Mercy. The former was popularized through the visionary St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, her confessor Bl. Claude La Colombiere, and co-initiator, St. John Eudes, in the late 1600s. (The three are called the "saints of the Sacred Heart"). The latter devotion was popularized by St.

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-73776629766258596082009-09-20T19:25:00.000-07:002009-09-20T19:25:06.620-07:00

St. Catherine Labouré and St. Juan Diego We continue to learn about the stories of visionaries who have popularized Marian devotion through the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to each of them. In the first part of this series of blog posts, we saw how St. Bernadette Soubirous was instrumental in the popularity of the devotion to Our Lady of Lourdes. This blog post will now present two other

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-41552489472815677362009-09-16T14:51:00.001-07:002009-09-16T14:51:22.308-07:00

Introduction This blog post will feature a selection of saints and blesseds who have been visionaries (those who saw the Lord or the Blessed Virgin Mary in an apparition), stigmatists (those who bore in their physical bodies the wounds of the Crucified Lord), and those whose remains continue to be incorrupt from the time of their death up to the present day. Because of the limitations of this

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-37853333003576573852009-08-02T19:03:00.001-07:002009-08-02T19:03:52.248-07:00

As mentioned early in this series of blog posts, the stories of these solitaries are meant to inspire and make us wonder how the Lord can do great things through them. Since they are only a select few in the history of the Church who were given this special gift or charism, imitation of their virtuous acts and many other spiritual feats, and austere practices are to be understood in the context

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-17237719702065807552009-08-02T14:43:00.001-07:002009-08-02T14:43:24.519-07:00

The next three inspiring stories of solitaries we will learn about is about an Irishman in the 7th century, an Englishwoman in the 15th century, and an Egyptian in the 4th century. Each biography of these saints is unique and one-of-a-kind. What is common though among these three solitaries is the story of their love for God and the life of prayer and solitude. St. Fiacre, Hermit (d. ca. 670

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-36036380346123431552009-07-30T16:37:00.001-07:002009-08-02T14:42:11.255-07:00

Although the spiritual movement of Christians to the desert had originated in the East, as the faith spread to many parts of the world, especially in the West, the charism slowly became part of the institutes of Western monasticism. And as these monasteries spread all throughout Europe, they influenced a lot of the Catholic faithful - but calling only a few to embrace a really solitary life.

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-51439717204658632522009-07-25T17:47:00.001-07:002009-07-25T17:47:35.641-07:00

St. John of Egypt, Saintly Recluse (ca. 304-394 A.D.) and Sts. Gundleus and Gwladys, Hermits (sixth century) After learning the lives of two European solitaries, St. Conrad of Piacenza (Italian), and St. Nicholas of Flüe (Swiss), we now look at the life of a saintly recluse from the East, St. John of Egypt, and two Welsh hermits, Sts. Gundleus and Gwladys, who lived in the sixth century. St.

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-9434039963685667562009-07-25T01:02:00.000-07:002011-04-23T23:47:55.951-07:00

IntroductionProbably one of the best ways to update our theological knowledgeand understanding of our faith, is to read the writings of ourpresent pope, Pope Benedict XVI. His first two encyclicals, "DeusCaritas Est" and "Spe Salvi", are good sources of how we can learnmore of our faith for the present times, and then find space forus to reflect how we can apply all these in our daily lives.Spe

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-14619863205255163622009-07-19T17:32:00.000-07:002009-07-19T17:32:22.052-07:00

We continue learning about the lives of the saints who became recluses, hermits or anchorites. In this blog post, we learn about the life of St. Nicholas of Flüe, the patron of Switzerland - honored by Swiss Protestants and venerated by Swiss Catholics. St. Nicholas of Flüe: Hermit (1417-1487 A.D.) Nicholas was born on the Flüeli, a fertile plain near Sachseln, Obwalden (Unterwalden) Canton,

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-32432510544058435072009-07-13T12:39:00.000-07:002009-07-13T12:39:35.622-07:00

St. Conrad of Piacenza: Hermit (1290-1351 A.D.) Conrad was born of a noble family in Piacenza, Italy. He got married to a nobleman's daughter and took his residence in his own birthplace. The story of his conversion began with an incident. One day, he went on a hunting trip. He had lit a fire but it got out of control, and burned a neighboring cornfield and forest. To pay for these damages, St

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-25697899662094462202009-07-06T16:18:00.001-07:002009-07-06T16:18:51.282-07:00

Description of terms Recluse A recluse in the religious sense, is often a monk who lives in a cell or hut of his own apart from the community, or one who is part of a monastic community that is located far away - like in the mountains of the Monastic Republic of Mount Athos in Greece. An example of a recluse in St. Theophan the Recluse. St. Theophan is a great Russian mystic of the nineteenth

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-30746565199435974962009-07-05T01:09:00.001-07:002009-07-05T01:09:49.482-07:00

Introduction In the gospels, most especially in the gospel of Luke (which is filled with many themes on prayer), we find Jesus sometimes withdrawing from the crowd, and going out "to the mountain to pray, spending the night in communion with God" (Luke 6:12). The reasons for His doing so are varied: sometimes so that He can make a very important decision; or to commune totally with the Father;

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-86775813694103219452009-07-04T17:50:00.000-07:002009-07-04T17:50:04.862-07:00

St. Simon St. Simon the Zealot was one of the original followers of Jesus. Traditions from the West say that he preached in Egypt, and then went on to Persia with St. Jude Thaddeus. Both of them suffered martyrdom in Persia. Another tradition, this time from the East, tells a different story. It reports that St. Simon died peacefully at Edessa. Other traditions say that St. Simon also went

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-92132210132724009782009-07-03T17:00:00.000-07:002009-07-03T17:00:32.748-07:00

St. Philip St. Philip is listed among the apostles awaiting the Holy Spirit in the upper room--as mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles 1:13. After Pentecost, one tradition reports that Philip preached in Greece, and was crucified upside down (like St. Peter), in Hierapolis under Emperor Domitian. Another tradition says that Philip brought the gospel to Phrygia and Hierapolis, in Asia Minor and

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-16530659106178473342009-06-26T03:01:00.001-07:002009-06-26T03:01:45.007-07:00

St. Andrew Andrew is the brother of Peter, and their father John was a fisherman. After Pentecost, St. Andrew is said to have preached in Scythia and Greece, and in what is now modern Turkey. One tradition reports him going to Byzantium, where he appointed Stachys as bishop. He was then martyred at Patras, in Greece, on an X-shaped cross. The body of St. Andrew was brought to the Church of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-42065560261225440142009-06-24T19:11:00.000-07:002009-06-24T19:11:30.554-07:00

Introduction Before the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Blessed Virgin Mary and all the apostles and disciples, Acts 1:15-26 tells us that there were about one hundred twenty of them gathered together. Peter, the leader of Christ's inner circle of Twelve, let it be known to the whole community, that another should take the place of Judas Iscariot - the one who betrayed Christ and killed

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-41142028930892711972009-04-23T16:40:00.001-07:002009-04-23T16:49:42.005-07:00

Introduction The Fourteen Holy Helpers are a group of saints whose intercession is known to be very effective - especially against ailments and many various diseases. They were heavily invoked when a serious plague struck Europe. The devotion to the Fourteen Holy Helpers began in the Rhineland and spread to the areas around it. Their feast as a group is celebrated traditionally on August 8.

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-26386713477685682472009-04-21T16:47:00.001-07:002009-04-21T16:47:36.525-07:00

VATICAN INFORMATION SERVICENINETEENTH YEAR - N. 73 ENGLISH TUESDAY, 21 APRIL 2009 NINTH CENTENARY OF THE DEATH OF ST. ANSELM VATICAN CITY, 21 APR 2009 (VIS) - The Holy Father has sent a Message to Fr. Notker Wolf, abbot primate of the Benedictine Confederation, for the occasion of the ninth centenary of the death of St. Anselm, archbishop of Canterbury and doctor of the Church, whose feast

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-22124490988278070532009-04-07T20:41:00.000-07:002011-04-23T23:47:55.951-07:00

IntroductionThere is a book written by the Rev. Roger A. Swenson called "TheLamp of Life Renewed: Daily Meditations for the Easter Season".Fr. Swenson has studied at the Gregorianum in Rome, did graduatework in counseling and school administration at Loyola and TulaneUniversities, and served as instructor, principal and rector ofSt. John Vianney Preparatory School in New Orleans.A new form of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-55482781141191739902009-04-01T21:26:00.001-07:002009-04-01T21:26:47.404-07:00

Birth, seminary studies, ordination John Baptist was born at Rheims, France, on April 30, 1651, the eldest of ten children, of a wealthy and noble family. His parents allowed him to enter the seminary of Paris, where he was tonsured at the age of eleven, then became a canon of the cathedral at Rheims when only sixteen. After all his studies, he was ordained a priest in 1678 A.D. Inspired by a

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-27267383609593403812009-03-16T18:04:00.000-07:002009-03-16T18:04:07.115-07:00

An extraordinary charity What makes St. Therese such a great saint was not because she accomplished many great things, but that she accomplished her simple tasks with extraordinary charity. According to author Segundo Galilea, the spirituality of St. Therese is not complicated. No excessive will power was exercised and no emphasis was made to accomplish what was difficult. She rather insisted

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-15153359492954904562009-03-06T20:17:00.001-08:002009-03-06T20:17:45.547-08:00

Birth, family background and education Vincent was born at Pouy, France, on 24 April 1580 A.D., to Jean de Paul and Bertrande de Moras. Vincent's parents were French peasants but even despite their poverty, his parents recognized much potential in vincent that they determined to give him a good education. The third of six children, Vincent's parents had him educated at the college of the

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-77375848856652828652009-03-05T17:47:00.001-08:002009-03-05T17:47:30.296-08:00

Born of a noble family St. Clare was born at Assisi, Italy, on July 11, to Faverone Offreduccio and Ortolanadi Fiumi, who raised her and her sisters in a strict, almost cloistered environment until they were of marriageable age. Inspired by St. Francis' Lenten sermon When Clare was eighteen (or about nineteen), St. Francis of Assisi preached a Lenten sermon at the church where their family went

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-38920335055963005482009-02-19T15:37:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.952-07:00

Catholics All Over the World Celebrate the Holy Week According to their Local Culture.The inculturation of the Catholic faith in local culturesAlthough Catholics all over the world celebrate the Holy Week according to a common liturgical form that is used especially in the Eucharistic celebration, there are local customs, traditions and spiritual practices that are performed that are particular

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-15013055138604682872009-02-19T13:02:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.952-07:00

The second part of the gospel of Mark gives the implications of Peter's confession of Jesus as being the Messiah. Key to Mark's gospelThe key to Mark's gospel is the confession of Peter in Mark 8:27-31. Before this turning point, the question as to the identity of Jesus in the mind of those who read the gospel of Mark is: "Who is this?" Now that this question is answered by Peter's

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-74999978025689098412009-02-17T20:00:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.952-07:00

The Spirit of the Cross is the Self-Sacrifice of Jesus for the Forgiveness of Our SinsSecond Vatican II TeachingBefore the Second Vatican Council, the Church did not exercise much her prophetic function in the world of politics. However, after the Church opened wide her windows to bring in the Spirit that renewed much of Church thinking, she understood that her present role in the world was to

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-81125777691608887332009-02-17T19:58:00.000-08:002009-02-17T19:58:01.297-08:00

St. Matthew, originally called Levi, was probably born in Galilee - the son of Alphaeus. He became a publican tax collector - a social status that was considered low by Jewish religious society and is associated with sinners. When he was in his post as tax collector one day, Jesus called him and he immediately responded and soon became one of the apostles of Jesus (Mt 9:9-13; 10:3).

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-37540746609515851372009-02-01T22:53:00.001-08:002009-02-01T22:54:01.049-08:00

Introduction St. Dionysius, St. Damasus I, and St. Celestine I, were popes during the 3rd to the 5th century. They are also listed as Latin Fathers of the Church. St. Dionysius, Pope: d. ca. 268 A.D. Dionysius was a Greek and a priest in Rome when he was elected Pope on July 22, 259 A.D. In 260 A.D., he issued an important doctrinal letter that condemned Sabellianism. He also sent large sums of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-36841983498059422062009-02-01T20:26:00.001-08:002009-02-01T20:27:40.931-08:00

Birth and early life St. Catherine, a.k.a. Caterinetta, is the daughter of James Fieschi and Francesca di Negro. Born in Genoa, she was their fifth and last child. She wanted to enter religious life, but then her father died, and she married Julian Adorno at the age of sixteen. Julian was not a faithful husband to Catherine. His extravagance also became a problem, for it led their ten years of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-66798188943715559102009-01-20T02:01:00.000-08:002009-01-20T02:02:23.117-08:00

St. Gregory of Nyssa, Bishop: ca. 330-395 A.D.Birth, family background, and early life St. Gregory was the son of St. Basil the Elder and St. Emmilia. He was born at Caesarea, Cappadocia, and was cared for by his brother St. Basil (the Great), and his sister St. Macrina the Younger. Being well educated, St. Gregory became a rhetorician and entered into marriage with Theosebeia. He became a

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-68763987632470292522009-01-17T13:38:00.000-08:002009-01-17T13:39:01.291-08:00

St. Hilary, Bishop of Poitiers: ca. 315-368 A.D.Birth, family background, and baptism St. Hilary was born in Poitiers, in western Gaul, about 50 miles southwest of Tours, in ca. 315 A.D. His parents were pagan, but belong to a wealthy and noble ancestry. Hilary's parents provided their son with an excellent education, especially in the Latin classics, and even in Greek. Hilary got married and had

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-4580485048908488182009-01-17T13:37:00.000-08:002009-01-17T13:38:16.866-08:00

St. Ephrem of Syria, Deacon and Doctor: ca. 306-373 A.D.Birth and early life St. Ephrem (also spelled Ephraem), was born in Nisibis, Northern Mesopotamia. When he was converted to Christianity, some biographers say his pagan parents disowned him. This is not certain. But what is certain is that he was baptized at the age of eighteen, and then was taken by St. Jacob, the bishop of Nisibis. St.

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-76224698499337583692009-01-17T13:36:00.000-08:002011-01-10T21:20:26.219-08:00

St. Adrian of Canterbury, Abbot: d. ca. 710 A.D. St. Adrian was born in Africa. He was a Latin and Greek scholar - very learned and saintly. Being gifted with excellent learning abilities, he became well-versed in the Holy Scriptures and in the studies on the Fathers of the Church. During his early years in religious life, he became the abbot of the monastery of Nerida, near Naples in

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-25484115651881157542009-01-17T13:29:00.000-08:002009-01-17T13:30:41.281-08:00

St. Athanasius of Alexandria, Archbishop: ca. 297-373 A.D.Birth, education and diaconate St. Athanasius was probably born of Christian parents at Alexandria, Egypt. He was well educated in Scripture and in theology. Ordained a deacon, he then became the secretary to Bishop Alexander in Alexandria in about 318 A.D. Leadership in the Church St. Athanasius was present at the Council of Nicaea,

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-40286751876713182452009-01-07T13:55:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.953-07:00

The Catholic Church is a Time-tested and Holy Institution That Always Remained Rooted in the Blessed Trinity Despite theWinds of ChangeIntroductionThe following reasons are some suggestions for helping Catholics who are confused, bothered, and feel like moving on to a different Christian denomination, because of the present crises affectingthe Church. These reasons and suggestions are not

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-50614342894956917962009-01-06T12:26:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.953-07:00

For those new in New Testament bible study, this book by Fr. Etienne Charpentier is easy to understand and to digest since the content is presented in brief paragraphs with accompanying illustrations and maps. The book's content covers all the books of the New Testament from the gospels, to the epistles and the book of Revelation.Very good book for bible studyFor those starting to know the New

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-8750027364760796312009-01-06T12:25:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.953-07:00

There are five very important types of documents in the Catholic Church. The most important is the Apostolic Constitution while the least important is the Papal Message. These five documents are all issued by the Pope [or council]. The five types of Church documentsThe five important Church documents in order of importance are:1. Apostolic Constitutions2. Encyclical Letters3. Apostolic

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-51467208926491906472009-01-02T02:07:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.953-07:00

For use in Catholic bible studyallegory - an extended comparison in which personsor objects stand for abstract ideas, moral qualities, orspiritual realities. Some people read the Song of Songs,which uses the language of a passionate love affair, as anallegory of God's love for the people of God, or of Christ'slove for the church. Allegorical: characterized byallegory; symbolic.alleluia - a

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-39976488472442830362009-01-02T02:05:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.954-07:00

The meaning of some terms found in the Old TestamentGlossary useful for Catholic bible studyacrostic - a poetic form in which the first letter of each new line or series of lines within a larger group follows the order of letters in the Hebrew alphabet. The supreme example in the Bible is Psalm 119 and, outside the psalter, the Book of Lamentations.anawim - the Hebrew word for "the poor," the "

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-55976199289578625102008-12-28T23:47:00.001-08:002008-12-28T23:47:54.203-08:00

St. John Cassian, Abbot and Ascetical Writer: ca. 360-435 A.D.Latin Father of the ChurchIntroduction St. John Cassian was a link between Eastern monasticism and early Western monasticism. As an ascetical writer, his thought was influenced by the writings of Evagrius Ponticus. His two major writings were of great influence in the West for more than a millenium. These two writings were: "The

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-51726574662955345062008-12-23T23:07:00.000-08:002008-12-23T23:08:37.554-08:00

This article suggests three Catholic books which you can read to help seriously begin your journey in the Catholic faith. The books contain popular biographies of two saints and the story of a miracle that caused conversion and repentance and continues to influence people today. Introduction The Catholic faith is attractive to those who seek tradition and a rich spiritual heritage - elements

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-31435277763347156602008-12-23T13:32:00.000-08:002008-12-23T13:33:14.126-08:00

St. Macarius, Monk: 300-390 A.D.Greek Father of the ChurchIntroduction There is a St. Macarius the Great listed as one of the Greek Fathers of the Church. And there is a Desert Father Macarius of Egypt (also ca. 300-390 A.D.) whom homilies are ascribed to. The context of these homilies is the early monasticism of Syria. Since St. Macarius is from Egypt, there is speculation that these homilies

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-56878214020607009142008-12-21T14:02:00.000-08:002008-12-21T14:03:06.618-08:00

St. Maximus, Abbot and Confessor: 580-662 A.D.Greek Father of the ChurchIntroduction Although listed as a Greek Father of the Church, St. Maximus Homologetes was the last common Father of both the East and the West. He lived in Rome for many years and collaborated with the popes and other Western leaders to overcome the heresy of Monothelitism (the teaching that Christ had only one will). The

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-71229818658357135672008-12-12T16:39:00.000-08:002008-12-12T16:40:22.917-08:00

St. Louis-Marie of Montfort and His SpiritualityThe Four Basic Means of Acquiring Christ, divine Wisdom According to the Teachings of St. Louis-Marie de MontfortSt. Louis-Marie de Montfort St. Louis-Marie de Montfort lived in the years 1673-1716. In those active years, he conducted very numerous parish missions all over France and eventually led to the founding of the Company of Mary, the

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-36848038405200067092008-12-12T04:26:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.954-07:00

Should We Save the Mother or the Child?Life-threatening pregnancies that require a serious moral decisionA life-threatening pregnancyIn the course of a woman's pregnancy, sometimes, situations change and the pregnancy become life-threatening. This life-threatening situation does not only apply to the mother but also to the child in the womb. What is for certain about this pregnancy is that

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-80265936580324519212008-12-10T02:21:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.954-07:00

The Crusades: Campaigns To Reconquer the Holy LandThe Crusades had a deeply Christian and missionary purpose: the reconquest of the Holy Land and a war against Islam. Though it produced much knightly energy, the war at times expressed itself in a bloody and un-Christian frenzy. This period of the Crusades to recover Jerusalem can be divided into six military campaigns. Jerusalem under the

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-18816328102168728682008-12-09T18:39:00.000-08:002008-12-09T18:40:21.311-08:00

on September 1: Giles, abbot; Verena, virgin; Lupus or Leu, bishop; Fiacre; Sebbe; Drithelm; Beatrice de Silva Meneses, virgin on September 2: Antoninus of Apamea, martyr; Castor, bishop; Agricolus, bishop; William of Roskilde, bishop; Brocard Gregory (died 12 March 604): prefect of Rome; O.S.B.; papal legate to Constantinople; as pope, noted for liturgical reform and chant; sent

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-91113697840611640872008-12-08T23:10:00.001-08:002008-12-08T23:10:37.262-08:00

Alphonsus Liguori (died 1787): lawyer; founded the Redemptorists; opposed Jansenism, stressing Christ's love "copiosa apud eum redemptio" and Mary's help; bishop of Sant'Agata del Goti; master of moral theology; patron of confessors and moral theologians. (August 1) Born at La Mure, France, Peter Julian Eymard became a parish priest in 1834 and joined the Marists five years later. He

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-11244601023845516322008-12-08T21:18:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.955-07:00

Knowing the Historical JesusThe Historical Jesus: Based on the BibleOur Images of JesusOur popular images of Jesus are often related to our devotions - like the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Divine Mercy, the infant Jesus of Prague, and the Black Nazarene. There are also popular images of Jesus like the image of Jesus, the Good Shepherd, the image of Christ the King, the Risen

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-84223977415130703682008-12-06T14:06:00.000-08:002008-12-06T14:07:11.352-08:00

on July 1: Shenute, abbot; Theodoric or Thierry, abbot; Carilefus or Calais, abbot; Gall of Clermont, bishop; Eparchius or Cybard; Simeon Salus; Serf or Servanus, bishop; Oliver Plunkett, bishop and martyr on July 2: Processus and Martinian, martyrs; Monegundis, widow; Otto of Bamberg, bishop Thomas: (died 1st c.); his doubting gave way to faith when he saw the risen Lord; associated with

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-72531705232326663942008-12-05T21:59:00.000-08:002008-12-05T22:00:01.412-08:00

Justin, martyr (June 1)also on June 1: Pamphilus and Companions, martyrs; Proculus, "the soldier," and Proculus of Bologna, bishop; Caprasius or Caprais; Wistan; Simeon of Syracuse; Eneco or Iñigo, abbot; Theobald of AlbaMarcellinus and Peter: (died c. 303): Marcellinus was a priest and Peter, an exorcist; beheaded under Diocletian; both mentioned in the Roman Canon. (June 2) also on June 2:

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-8465158815603245872008-12-05T16:47:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.955-07:00

Eschatological ReversalWhat is Eschatological Reversal?This is a theological concept and term that has to do with the study of eschatology - the theology of the end timesEschatological reversal simply means that the present situation will be reversed in the end times [when the new heavens and the new earth is created] - meaning those who have, will not have anymore, and those who have not, will

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-13056151817984769362008-12-05T14:02:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.955-07:00

What is Liberation Theology?Liberation Theology Advocates Preferential Option for the PoorSocial Sin, Unjust Structures, Preferential Option for the PoorThree terms popularly used by those who advocate liberation theology are: social sin, unjust structures, and preferential option for the poor.Social sin, as contrasted to personal sin, is a sin that involves a a system, an institution, or a

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-85361888488791729322008-12-05T02:14:00.001-08:002011-05-23T17:46:09.553-07:00

Joseph the Worker; Amator or Amatre, bishop; Brioc or Brieuc, abbot; Sigismund of Burgundy; Marculf or Marcoul, abbot; Theodard of Narbonne, bishop; Peregrine Laziosi, Riccardo Pampuri (May 1) Athanasius: (died 373): 45 years the bishop of Alexandria; champion of Nicea (325); prolific polemicist against Arians who exiled him five times; one of the four great doctors of the Eastern Church;

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-57974156960656022252008-12-05T02:13:00.001-08:002011-04-18T00:51:27.077-07:00

on April 1: Melito, bishop; Walaricus or Valery, abbot; Macarius the Wonder-Worker; Hugh of Grenoble, bishop; Hugh of Bonnevaux, abbot; Gilbert of Caithness, bishop; Catherine of Palma, virgin Pedro Calungsod was a teen-aged native of the Visayas region of the Philippines. He was one of the Boy catechists who went with some Spanish Jesuit missionaries from the Philippines to the Ladrones

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-18869312774039004442008-12-04T23:10:00.001-08:002011-03-20T19:01:04.471-07:00

on March 1: David or Dewi, bishop; Felix II (III), priest; Albinus or Aubin of Angers, bishop; Swithbert, bishop; Rudesind or Rosendo, bishop on March 2: Chad or Ceadda, bishopon March 3: Marinus and Astyrius, martyrs; Chelidonius and Emeterius, martyrs; Arthelais, virgin; Non or Nonnita; Winwaloe or Guénolé, abbot; Anselm of Nonantola, abbot; Cunegund, widow; Gervinus, abbot; Aelred of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-66080678168488259702008-12-04T23:09:00.000-08:002011-02-19T21:13:57.456-08:00

Pionius, martyr; Brigid or Bride, virgin; Sigebert III of Austrasia; John "of the Grating," bishop; Henry Morse, priest and martyr (February 1) Presentation of the Lord (February 2) also on February 2: Adalbald of Ostrevant, martyr; Joan of Lestonnac, widow Blase: (died early 4th c.); bishop of Sebaste in Armenia; associated with the healing of throats; venerated as well by the Eastern

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-34557798435565511262008-12-04T20:07:00.001-08:002011-02-14T03:57:50.818-08:00

Mary, Mother of God, (January 1) also on January 1: Concordius, martyr; Felix of Bourger; Almachius or Telemachus, martyr; Euphrosyne, virgin; Eugendus or Oyend, abbot; William of Saint Benignus, abbot; Fulgentius, bishop; Clarus, abbot; Peter of Atroa, abbot; Odilo, abbot; Franchea, virgin; Guiseppe Maria Tomasi Basil: (died 1 Jan. 379); hermit who became bishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia:

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-63971071542014774942008-12-02T14:13:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.955-07:00

A Paradigm Shift in Catholic TheologyThe Paradigm Shift in Theology Led by Vatican II ProponentsSome definitionsMicrosoft Encarta dictionary defines paradigm shift as "a radical change in somebody's basic assumptions or approach". Applied to theological circles, this means that there was a radical change in approach to theology when the theological proponents of Vatican II led the convening of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-86749769982623104732008-12-02T11:03:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.956-07:00

What is the Basic Structure and Divisions of the Bible?The Bible is divided into the 46 books of the Old Testament and the 27 books of the New TestamentMain divisionThe Bible is mainly divided into the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament contains the books relating to the old covenant between Yahweh and Israel. The New Testament contains books and letters relating to the new

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-56731279237188791992008-11-30T23:18:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.956-07:00

Who Do You Say That I Am?Understanding the Gospel of Mark through the Confession of PeterThe Gospel of MarkThe gospel of Mark is the shortest of the four gospels. Many bible scholars describe Mark as a long passion narrative. This is because of its very brief and concise presentation of the ministry of Jesus that flows directly to His passion, death and resurrection.There are many ways of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-46159013114235355882008-11-30T23:17:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.956-07:00

Understanding the Gospel of LukeSeeing the Gospel of Luke through a Journey PerspectiveBackgrounder on the gospel of LukeThe gospel of Luke is often referred to by bible scholars as really a two volume book known as, Luke-Acts. Bible scholarstell us that the author of the gospel is also the author of the book of the Acts of the Apostles. We can see the ministry and missionary works of Jesus

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-2817426629528470482008-11-30T23:16:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.957-07:00

Understanding the Gospel of MatthewMatthew 28:16-20 - The Key Passage to Understand Matthew's GospelBackgrounder on the gospel of MatthewThe gospel of Matthew is composed of 28 chapters. It is one of the synoptic gospels, together with Mark and Luke. Synoptic gospels means that these gospels have a common source and tradition from which they obtained their content and material. This is why if

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-83615187076264870422008-11-28T14:09:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.957-07:00

The PsalmsCategorizing the 150 PsalmsWhat are the Psalms?The psalms are the prayers of the people of Israel. All in all they number 150. There are two different ways of numbering the psalms. That is why in some bible translations, they give two numbers - meaning that the first number belong to one tradition of numbering and the other to a second tradition of numbering. One tradition of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-87440738803035141362008-11-26T23:14:00.000-08:002008-11-26T23:15:18.895-08:00

Francis Xavier: (died 1552 at age 46 on the island of Sancion off the China coast); from Navarre; one of the founding Jesuits; preached in India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Japan; patron of foreign missions. (December 3) John of Damascene: (died 749); last of the Greek Fathers; first of the East to formulate a comprehensive synthesis of Christian dogma; defended the veneration of icons;

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-83451171327202548752008-11-26T20:07:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.957-07:00

Eras in the Catholic ChurchCatholic Church history is composed of many eras. Listed below is a brief outline that shows these eras as being highlightedby both favorable and unfavorable events.From the historical Jesus to the rescript of MilanWe have in this era many highlights. The following is a list of those highlights, some of which have brief descriptions or enumerations and listings.The

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-44981875234746376522008-11-25T23:17:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.957-07:00

The Catholic Mass - Scriptural Foundations and PrayersThis page gives information on the Scriptural basis of the Catholic Mass. It also provides the traditional prayers for preparation and thanksgiving for the Catholic Mass.The Catholic Mass, as is celebrated every day and attendedto by all Catholics every Sunday, has its origin, basis, and foundation in the ministry of Jesus through the

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-1552063995112141522008-11-23T17:23:00.000-08:002008-11-23T17:24:35.091-08:00

The Greatness of the Christian MartyrsMartyrs: Called to Live and Die Like Christ Jesus, Martyr Par Excellence Martyrdom as a Christian tradition has its basis and roots in the life and death of Jesus. Jesus gave his life and died on the cross out of love for all mankind - to save us from our sinfulness and to teach a new way of life in God. Before Jesus died a martyr's death, he went about

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-90975216428461628242008-11-23T17:22:00.000-08:002008-11-23T17:23:41.407-08:00

The Lives of Saints Follow a Certain Basic Life Pattern in their Following of ChristIntroduction As we read a few lives of the saints, especially those who are known as "sinners-turned-saints", we will discover a certain pattern which their life experience reveals. Though some are gifted with special spiritual maturity and already exhibit it at very young ages - such as St. Catherine of

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-33326206958906713292008-11-23T14:15:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.958-07:00

A book review on The Catechism of the Catholic Church (definitive edition)Catholics are well known for their faith that is based not only on Scripture but also on patristic, liturgical, magisterial and hagiographical tradition. This book will help both Catholics and non-Catholics to learn about Catholicism well.A brief introductionThis Catechism was recently produced. It was publishedduring the

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-67398188741567477912008-11-19T17:03:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.958-07:00

"The Promised Land" - A biblical history of how the Hebrew people struggled for land.The Hebrew people had their faith and their history intertwined. Much of how they struggled for land can be seen in biblical history. Other sources of their history are based on archaeological evidences. This article will focus on the former. The Fertile CrescentFrom earliest times the Fertile Crescent

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-54170878456906392382008-11-19T02:28:00.000-08:002008-11-19T02:29:31.993-08:00

Catholic SaintsCatholic saints are holy men and women who followed Christ radically and who reflect the face and voice of Christ in the time and century they lived. They are honored after their death by the Catholic Church through a process called beatification and a final step called canonization. Saints respond to the needs of their time In the Catholic Church, saints are people who have

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-30201333987374655562008-11-19T02:27:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.958-07:00

Family Life and the Industrial RevolutionThe Industrial Revolution had a profound effect on the life of the family, especially in their ways of earning a living and in their relationship with God.There are many factors that contributed to the way the family lived because of the Industrial Revolution: the shift from agriculture to the industrial; the creation of the system of labor and wage

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-54410476084877113832008-11-19T02:26:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.959-07:00

A book review on "Mary in the New Testament" - A Collaborative Assessment by Protestant and Roman Catholic ScholarsWhen Protestant and Roman Catholic scholars work together to study how Mary is seen in the context of the New Testament, the resulting work is a good scriptural understanding of Mary - one that many Christians of different denominations can definitely agree upon.Mary: IntroductionIn

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-81423511196028608502008-11-18T17:26:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.959-07:00

Sources and articles from noted theologians and writersListed down in this page are sources and articles from noted contemporary theologians and spiritual writers. Their writing can be good material for writing Catholic articles that can help inform about contemporary Catholic theology.The majority of the sources and articles contain content that are written in the context of Vatican II and

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-46551420557998804402008-11-18T17:24:00.001-08:002008-11-18T17:24:44.360-08:00

A book review on The Who's Who of Heaven: Saints for All Seasons, by Msgr. John P. KleinzThis Christian classic not only gives short biographical sketches of selected saints but also gives an introduction on what a saint is and how significant they are in our Catholic spirituality for today. This is a book that you will love to read over and over again because the saints are portrayed as

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-36485454340470989632008-11-18T02:17:00.001-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.959-07:00

A book review on "And Would You Believe It!" - Thoughts About the Creed, by Bernard Basset, SJFor Catholics who want to understand deeper their Catholic faith as it is expressed in the Nicene Creed, this book by Fr. Basset is indeed a gem. It is also valuable to those who want to make certain that their Catholic faith is the right faith for them.The Nicene CreedCatholics so often recite the

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-73496609341181313222008-11-18T02:17:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.960-07:00

The Infancy Narratives in Scriptures and Other Sources Related to Christ's BirthThe Infancy narratives can be found in the gospels of Matthew and Luke. This section of the gospels helps us to understand the significant meaning of how God became man. It also lends to us the divine intuition of understanding how such an all-powerful God had to depend on the fiat of a simple andhumble Jewish virgin

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-45427907843471643192008-11-18T02:16:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.960-07:00

Peace is the Fruit of Mutual CharityPope Benedict XV was elected pope a month after World War I. Upon his shoulders was the task of peacemaking among warring nations.A Pope for World War IPope Benedict XV (Cardinal Giacomo Della Chiesa, archbishop of Bologna) was elected pope on September 3, 1914, a month after the start of World War I. He is the pope to whom the present Pope Benedict XVI (

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-19499679491375430372008-11-18T02:14:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.960-07:00

"What Catholic Bible Translation Can I Use?"Catholics have quite a number of options in choosing a bible translation that can fit their particular needs. This articleaims to give information and advice in purchasing bible translations. Bible translationsThere are many bible translations which can help Catholics in their prayer life and work. The bible translations which many Catholics use

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-56042474538624193902008-11-17T20:25:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.960-07:00

The Twelve-Tribe ConfederacyA striking feature in the early organization of the Israelites is their grouping into twelve tribes: each founded on the ancestors in Jacob's family line.Jacob and his twelve sonsOne of the very noticeable feature of early Israel was its organization into twelve tribes. This structure is read back into the ancestors described in the book of Genesis, namely: Jacob (who

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-55326236046368230582008-11-17T20:24:00.001-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.961-07:00

Christianity and Islam in Historical RetrospectChristianity and Islam has a long history of conflict and battles. Victories and defeats occured on both sides; errors and mistakes also were committed on both sides. However, despite this strained relationship, the vision of peace through interreligious dialogue, is a step and direction towards reconciliation and healing. Pope John Paul II made

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-44051580169664159912008-11-17T20:24:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.961-07:00

Important Dates in Early Israel's HistoryThe history of the Israelites can be traced to the biblical accounts of the patriarchs and through historical records that ground their story in the turbulent eras of war in the Fertile Crescent. 1850 B.C. - AbrahamThe story of the patriarch Abraham runs in the bible from chapters 12-23. It is a beautiful story of call, vocation, obedience, trust, and

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-58980958561765463812008-11-17T17:30:00.001-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.961-07:00

"The Promised Land" - Three Theories of Israel's Conquest of CanaanIn the studies made by biblical scholars and archaeologists, three theories have been proposed to illumine the truth of how the early Hebrews were able to conquer Canaan and settle there.The Three Theories of Israel's Conquest of CanaanBecause there are inconsistencies in the biblical account of Joshua and there are also missing

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-2862672171506627482008-11-17T17:30:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.962-07:00

Three significant events in the life of the People of GodA description of the three significant events and turning points in the life of a people. These events help shape Israel's identity and faith in God. Three Significant Turning PointsThe three important events in the life of Israel as a people are:The ExodusDavidThe ExileThe Exodus: around 1250 BCThe Exodus was a liberating event for

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-30087898510112270562008-11-17T17:29:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.962-07:00

Jesus in History and in FaithKnowing the Jesus of history and the Jesus of faith, can help us understand the person of Jesus, as He is known in the time-bound culture of His time, and through the witness of many saints.IntroductionBefore Catholicism and Protestantism, and before all organized and institutionalized Christian religions, Christianity began simply through the person of Jesus and a

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-14405092918412946342008-11-17T14:29:00.001-08:002008-11-17T14:29:48.110-08:00

Book ReviewA book review on Saints for Our Time, by Ed Ransom During the papacy of John Paul II, the Catholic spirituality of mission and holiness was very much brought to our attention through the many beatifications and canonizations that John Paul II has celebrated. This book on "Saints for Our Time", contributes to that spirituality taught under his pontificate. A brief introduction

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-55999818322384571682008-11-17T02:24:00.000-08:002008-11-17T02:25:38.750-08:00

A book review on The Saints' Guide Series, a selection of five books for review in the Series published by Servant Publications, Ann Arbor, MichiganThese books within the Series are an excellent source of wisdom and truths from the writings of the many saints, whose spirituality have had a profound impact on the lives of many in the Church, throughout all the centuries of Christendom. Five

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-11024204104980384382008-11-16T23:22:00.001-08:002008-11-16T23:22:41.800-08:00

Video CD ReviewA video CD review of "Passion of the Saints", produced by Discovery Channel "Passion of the Saints" is a beautiful portrayal of the exemplary lives lived by the Christian martyrs - holy men and women who gave their very selves as a sacrificial offering so that the Catholic Church may be strengthened by their witness to the saving love of Christ Jesus. A brief introduction It is

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-33768500456446919162008-11-16T23:21:00.000-08:002011-04-23T23:47:55.962-07:00

Theology ArticlesThis is a cursory examination of the meaning of contextual theology as explored by Robert McAfee Brown in his article "What is Contextual Theology?" This cursory examination will discover how it can be integrated in John Paul II's spirituality of mission to diverse cultures and beliefs.According to Robert McAfee Brown, we must accept that no one's theological position is

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5523656.post-19451412435308738992008-11-15T23:08:00.000-08:002008-11-15T23:09:06.715-08:00

A book review on The Doctors of the Church: An Introduction to the Church's Great TeachersThese two volumes on The Doctors of the Church are truly a spiritual treasure that all Catholics should read, study and meditate upon. Most of the writings of these great teachers of the Church are letters, sermons, and commentaries that speak of a brilliance of wisdom and insight that can only be truly

Dennis Emmanuel Cabreranoreply@blogger.com