St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church

In a world that often pressures parents to conform to societal norms, Mariaan Strauss stood unwavering in her decision to embrace her son, Hendre, despite the challenges he would face. Refusing to succumb to the pressure from doctors, she proudly proclaims, "It's okay to have a child who's different from society's idea of 'normal.' We have received the greatest gift, and I wish they could hear me when I tell them."

In a remarkable development that touched the hearts of believers far and wide, a Catholic priest in Nigeria has been released from captivity after enduring three agonizing days. The priest's liberation occurred on a day of great significance - Pentecost Sunday - filling the faithful with immense joy and rekindling their unwavering hope.

In a heartwarming and inspiring gesture, Pope Francis recently spent time with a group of courageous young individuals battling cancer, affirming their strength and assuring them of Christ's constant companionship throughout their journey. During the special encounter, the Holy Father offered words of encouragement, emphasizing the abiding presence of Jesus in their lives.

I live in Chesapeake, a wonderful city in Southeastern Virginia where there are many members of the military. The parish I serve is an example of this. Every day, I witness the many sacrifices which military families make for our Nation. On this Memorial Day, I ask you to consider embracing a practice I was inspired to embrace years ago. Whenever and wherever you see a man or a woman in uniform, stop and shake their hand. Look them in the eyes. Thank them for their service to our ...

Memorial Day is fast approaching and for many people it happens to be a day off work. Trips have been planned and parties organized, yet many people forget that Memorial Day is not intended to be an occasion of jubilation. Memorial Day has always been intended to serve as a day to remember those who died in war.

The work of our chaplains extends much farther than the post chapel. They labor on land, at sea and in the air. There are 1.4 million Catholics in the military; wherever they are stationed, the chaplain is there. These chaplains can be found bringing Jesus Christ to their people in desert tents, on the aft deck of a guided missile cruiser, underwater on a submarine, and in post chapels.

Thank you, to every man and woman who has fought and is currently fighting for our homeland.�  Thank you for doing everything within your power to make sure I and my children can sleep safely tonight.�  I love and appreciate you and I pray God's blessing on you and your families.�  Godspeed, and come home soon.

On Pentecost the early followers of Jesus gathered as their Lord had instructed them, expecting the fulfillment of the promise he had made to send the Holy Spirit. We refer to Pentecost as the birthday of the missionary church for a good reason. Their encounter with the Holy Spirit in the Upper Room changed them.

The Church needs to be clothed with the same power of the Holy Spirit which transformed the early disciples from a frightened fraternity to a powerhouse which turned the whole world upside down. She can. The same Holy Spirit is available today.� 

This weekend, the Church celebrates Pentecost, one of the most important feast days of the year that concludes the Easter season and celebrates the beginning of the Church.�