Day: September 20, 2026

Pope Leo XIV appeals for international aid as Somalia crisis deepens – #Catholic – Pope Leo XIV on Sunday appealed for greater international assistance to Somalia, where violence and extreme weather are worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis, particularly for women and children.After reciting the Angelus on Sept. 20, the pope said: “With great concern, I am following the humanitarian crisis unfolding in certain areas of Somalia, where acts of violence and extreme weather events are exacerbating the already precarious living conditions of the population, particularly of women and children.”“I hope for the generous involvement of the international community, so that our brothers and sisters may not lack the necessary assistance,” he added.According to UNICEF, about 4.8 million people in Somalia need urgent humanitarian assistance, including some 3 million children. The U.N. agency has also warned that about 1.9 million children are suffering from acute malnutrition, including nearly half a million experiencing severe acute malnutrition.The pope also used his remarks after the Angelus to emphasize the importance of historical memory.He sent his blessing to residents of Pescantina, near Verona, who gathered Sunday at a monument honoring those who were deported and held prisoner during World War II.Leo said the commemoration should serve “to emphasize that we must not forget, but rather learn from history so as not to repeat the mistakes of the past.”God’s plans are greater than human calculationsBefore the Angelus, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the day’s Gospel account of the laborers called to work in the vineyard, some for the entire day, others for only a few hours and still others near the end of the day.Drawing on the prophet Isaiah, Leo said that God’s ways exceed human expectations.“God’s plans are infinitely greater — and, let us say, more ‘human’— than those that we men and women, marked by sin, can conceive or bring to fruition,” he said.The pope recalled Isaiah’s invitation to turn away from sin and return to the Lord, saying “the prophet’s call, which is more relevant than ever, is that we abandon our warped ways and return to the Lord, who is mercy and forgiveness.”Turning to the Gospel parable, Leo said its central moment comes when the vineyard owner pays the workers. Although he keeps the agreement made with those hired first, the owner also gives the same payment to those who arrived later.“Jesus’ parables describe the newness of what God has in store for us; yet they also reveal the resistance we generally offer to a more generous justice and greater love,” the pope said.Leo drew particular attention to the landowner’s instruction that the workers be paid “beginning with the last and then going to the first.”“The negative reaction of those who had worked all day, then, could easily have been avoided; it was intentional, however, because the revelation of God’s goodness is for everyone, not just for a few,” he said.The pope said the parable also challenges those who see themselves as having earned their place or accomplishments.“God has different ways and fresh ideas even for those who consider themselves to be first and believe they have earned what they have, that they deserved the results they have achieved,” he said.Leo concluded that God’s mercy moves beyond calculations based solely on merit and reward.“Instead, we all gain joy, wisdom and a better future when the law of love interrupts that of calculation, when the experience of mercy broadens that of merit, and when the gift of peace suspends rivalries and brings us closer together in gratitude,” he said.This story was first published in two parts by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.
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Pope Leo XIV appeals for international aid as Somalia crisis deepens – #Catholic – Pope Leo XIV on Sunday appealed for greater international assistance to Somalia, where violence and extreme weather are worsening an already severe humanitarian crisis, particularly for women and children.After reciting the Angelus on Sept. 20, the pope said: “With great concern, I am following the humanitarian crisis unfolding in certain areas of Somalia, where acts of violence and extreme weather events are exacerbating the already precarious living conditions of the population, particularly of women and children.”“I hope for the generous involvement of the international community, so that our brothers and sisters may not lack the necessary assistance,” he added.According to UNICEF, about 4.8 million people in Somalia need urgent humanitarian assistance, including some 3 million children. The U.N. agency has also warned that about 1.9 million children are suffering from acute malnutrition, including nearly half a million experiencing severe acute malnutrition.The pope also used his remarks after the Angelus to emphasize the importance of historical memory.He sent his blessing to residents of Pescantina, near Verona, who gathered Sunday at a monument honoring those who were deported and held prisoner during World War II.Leo said the commemoration should serve “to emphasize that we must not forget, but rather learn from history so as not to repeat the mistakes of the past.”God’s plans are greater than human calculationsBefore the Angelus, Pope Leo XIV reflected on the day’s Gospel account of the laborers called to work in the vineyard, some for the entire day, others for only a few hours and still others near the end of the day.Drawing on the prophet Isaiah, Leo said that God’s ways exceed human expectations.“God’s plans are infinitely greater — and, let us say, more ‘human’— than those that we men and women, marked by sin, can conceive or bring to fruition,” he said.The pope recalled Isaiah’s invitation to turn away from sin and return to the Lord, saying “the prophet’s call, which is more relevant than ever, is that we abandon our warped ways and return to the Lord, who is mercy and forgiveness.”Turning to the Gospel parable, Leo said its central moment comes when the vineyard owner pays the workers. Although he keeps the agreement made with those hired first, the owner also gives the same payment to those who arrived later.“Jesus’ parables describe the newness of what God has in store for us; yet they also reveal the resistance we generally offer to a more generous justice and greater love,” the pope said.Leo drew particular attention to the landowner’s instruction that the workers be paid “beginning with the last and then going to the first.”“The negative reaction of those who had worked all day, then, could easily have been avoided; it was intentional, however, because the revelation of God’s goodness is for everyone, not just for a few,” he said.The pope said the parable also challenges those who see themselves as having earned their place or accomplishments.“God has different ways and fresh ideas even for those who consider themselves to be first and believe they have earned what they have, that they deserved the results they have achieved,” he said.Leo concluded that God’s mercy moves beyond calculations based solely on merit and reward.“Instead, we all gain joy, wisdom and a better future when the law of love interrupts that of calculation, when the experience of mercy broadens that of merit, and when the gift of peace suspends rivalries and brings us closer together in gratitude,” he said.This story was first published in two parts by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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In his Sunday Angelus catechesis, the pontiff reflected on the parable of the vineyard workers, saying God’s generosity overturns human calculations of merit and reward.

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The 23 Eastern Catholic Churches: Ancient traditions in communion with Rome – #Catholic – When the Catholic Church is mentioned, many think exclusively of the Latin Church, to which the vast majority of the worldʼs Catholics belong. However, the Catholic Church is actually composed of 24 “sui iuris” or autonomous Churches: the Latin Church and 23 Eastern Catholic Churches, which are heirs to the ancient Christian traditions of the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Africa, and India.These Churches have preserved their own liturgical languages, spiritualities, disciplines, and forms of ecclesiastical organization. Some celebrate the liturgy in Arabic, Syriac, Geʼez, Coptic, Armenian, or Church Slavonic. Others maintain traditions that date back to the early communities founded by the apostles.All of them are in full communion with the pope, the successor of St. Peter and head of the worldwide Catholic Church.One Church, many traditionsThe Eastern Catholic Churches stem from five major liturgical traditions: Alexandrian, Antiochene, Armenian, Chaldean, and Byzantine. Each possesses its own theological, spiritual, and cultural heritage, developed over centuries within vastly different historical contexts.Among them are well-known Churches such as the Maronite Church of Lebanon, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, the Syro-Malabar Church of India, and the Coptic Catholic Church of Egypt. Many exist as minorities in countries where Islam or Orthodox Churches predominate, and several have endured persecution, war, or mass emigration.Governance through synodsOne of the most distinctive characteristics of these Churches is their internal organization. Unlike the practice often found in the Latin Church, many Eastern Churches operate through a robust synodal system.Each Church is structured around a synod of bishops, which serves as the primary governing body. This body legislates on numerous aspects of ecclesial life, makes pastoral decisions, and participates in the election of new bishops. In patriarchal and major archiepiscopal Churches, the synod even elects the patriarch or major archbishop, an election that must subsequently be recognized or confirmed in accordance with norms established by Rome.Pope Leo XIV has recently reformed the canon law governing Eastern patriarchal Churches to address a legal gap that hindered the resolution of internal conflicts. Through a motu proprio the pontiff granted greater autonomy to the bishops, enabling them to convene a synod independently of the patriarch and to seek his removal with a two-thirds majority vote, a measure that remains subject to the popeʼs final approval.The 23 Eastern ChurchesAlexandrian traditionCoptic Catholic ChurchThe Coptic Catholic Church has its roots in the ancient Church of Alexandria, founded according to tradition by St. Mark the Evangelist. It is primarily present in Egypt and uses the Alexandrian rite in the Coptic and Arabic languages.It entered into full communion with Rome in the 18th century and is headed by the Coptic patriarch of Alexandria. Interestingly, the Coptic language used in the liturgy represents the final historical stage of the language of ancient pharaonic Egypt, making this Church the direct heir to a cultural tradition spanning more than 3,000 years. Pope Leo XIV with representatives of the Coptic Church in St. Peter’s Square. | Credit: Vatican Media Ethiopian Catholic ChurchThe Ethiopian Catholic Church arose from communities of the Ge’ez tradition that reestablished full communion with the Holy See. It is present primarily in Ethiopia and celebrates the liturgy according to the Ethiopian Alexandrian rite, which is characterized by strong biblical symbolism and numerous distinctive traditions. It primarily uses the Ge’ez language in its liturgy and is distinguished by the integration of African cultural elements into ecclesial life. An interesting feature is that many of its celebrations include traditional instruments such as drums and sistrums, a practice uncommon in other Catholic Churches.Eritrean Catholic ChurchEstablished as a “sui iuris” metropolitan church in 2015 by Pope Francis, the Eritrean Catholic Church brings together Catholics of the Alexandrian tradition in Eritrea. It shares the use of the Ge’ez rite with the Ethiopian Church, although it possesses its own hierarchy.It represents a significant portion of the countryʼs Catholics and is notable for the vitality of its vocations and its strong Eastern liturgical identity. It is one of the youngest Eastern Catholic Churches from an institutional standpoint, even though its Christian roots date back to the early centuries.Armenian TraditionArmenian Catholic ChurchThe Armenian Catholic Church follows the liturgical and spiritual tradition of the Armenian people, the first kingdom to officially adopt Christianity in the year 301. It gradually entered into communion with Rome starting in the Middle Ages and is currently led by the patriarch of Cilicia of the Armenians. Its liturgy, traditionally celebrated in Classical Armenian, preserves unique elements derived from ancient Armenian traditions. A notable feature is the use of a curtain that is drawn and opened at specific moments during the liturgy, a custom inherited from early Christianity.Antiochene Tradition (West Syriac)Maronite ChurchThe Maronite Church is the only Eastern Catholic Church that has never broken communion with Rome. Its origins trace back to the communities gathered around St. Maron in Syria and Lebanon.It is headed by the Maronite patriarch of Antioch and follows the West Antiochene rite, retaining the liturgical use of Syriac alongside Arabic and other modern languages. Many liturgical texts contain words in Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, giving its celebrations a particularly evocative character. Lebanese Cardinal Béchara Boutros Raï, leader of the Maronite Catholic Church, delivers a homily during the Synod on Synodality on Oct. 9, 2023. | Credit: Vatican Media Syriac Catholic ChurchThe Syriac Catholic Church originated from groups within the Syriac Orthodox Church that entered into communion with Rome during the 17th and 18th centuries. It preserves the spiritual and liturgical heritage of the ancient Syriac tradition of Antioch. It is headed by the patriarch of Antioch of the Syriacs and celebrates the liturgy in West Syriac and in the vernacular languages ​​of its faithful. Its hymns and prayers retain very ancient expressions of Semitic Christianity that have scarcely changed since the early centuries.Syro-Malankara Catholic ChurchThe Syro-Malankara Catholic Church traces its origins to the Christian community of Kerala, India, which is historically linked to the West Syriac tradition. In 1930, a group led by Archbishop Geevarghese Mar Ivanios entered into communion with Rome. Today, it is a major archiepiscopal church that combines the Antiochene liturgical heritage with Indian cultural traditions. During certain important celebrations, the faithful participate in processions featuring ceremonial umbrellas and floral decorations characteristic of Indian culture.Chaldean tradition (East Syriac)Chaldean Catholic ChurchThe Chaldean Catholic Church originates from the ancient Church of the East and has its primary historical center in Mesopotamia, particularly in present-day Iraq. It entered into communion with Rome during the 16th and 17th centuries and is led by the patriarch of Babylon of the Chaldeans.It employs the Chaldean rite and preserves the liturgical use of Eastern Aramaic, a language closely related to the one spoken by Jesus. Its communities maintain some of the oldest Christian traditions in the world, in territories evangelized as early as the first centuries.Syro-Malabar Catholic ChurchThe Syro-Malabar Catholic Church is one of the largest Eastern Catholic Churches. It traces its roots to the so-called St. Thomas Christians of India, who, according to tradition, were evangelized by the apostle.It follows the East Syriac liturgical tradition and has been raised to the rank of a major archiepiscopal church. It currently has millions of faithful, both in India and in the diaspora. It is the second-largest Eastern Catholic Church in the world, surpassed only by the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil of the Syro-Malabar Church. | Credit: Syro-Malabar Church Byzantine traditionAlbanian Catholic ChurchThe Albanian Catholic Church of the Byzantine rite is a small Eastern Catholic Church found primarily in Albania. It arose from communities that adopted the Byzantine tradition while maintaining communion with Rome. Although small in number, it stands as an important testament to the religious diversity of the Balkans. Its history was marked by severe religious persecution under the Albanian communist regime, one of the harshest of the 20th century.Belarusian Catholic ChurchThe Belarusian Catholic Church follows the Slavic Byzantine tradition and traces its origins to the Union of Brest of 1596. Over the centuries, it endured persecution and long periods of institutional disappearance. Today, it exists primarily in small communities both within and outside Belarus. For decades, it survived mainly thanks to groups of emigrants scattered across Europe and the Americas.Byzantine-Slavic Rite Catholics in BulgariaThe Byzantine-Slavic Rite Catholic community in Bulgaria emerged in the 19th century, when a group of Bulgarian Christians sought communion with Rome while retaining the Byzantine-Slavic liturgical and spiritual tradition. A pivotal moment occurred in 1861 with the reception of Archimandrite Joseph Sokolsky into the Catholic Church and his episcopal consecration by Pope Pius IX.Today, Byzantine-Slavic Rite Catholics in Bulgaria comprise the Eparchy of St. John XXIII of Sofia, established in 2019 when the former apostolic exarchate was raised to the rank of eparchy. They preserve the Byzantine-Slavic liturgical tradition, celebrating the Divine Liturgy primarily in Bulgarian and Church Slavonic.At the same time, the Catholic Church in Bulgaria also includes the Latin dioceses of Sofia and Plovdiv-Nikópolis. Thus, Bulgaria is a particularly interesting example of the coexistence of Latin and Byzantine-Slavic traditions within the same jurisdiction.Greek Catholic ChurchThe Greek Catholic Church consists of communities of the Byzantine tradition located in Greece that are historically linked to communion with Rome. It preserves the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom and other forms characteristic of the Byzantine heritage. Situated in a country where the vast majority of Christians belong to the Orthodox Church, it constitutes a small but significant minority.Hungarian Greek Catholic ChurchThe Hungarian Greek Catholic Church arose from Byzantine-rite communities established in the Kingdom of Hungary. It uses Hungarian in its liturgy and was elevated to the rank of a metropolitan “sui iuris” Church in 2015. It was one of the first Eastern Churches to widely introduce a modern language, Hungarian, into its liturgical celebrations.Italo-Albanian ChurchThe Italo-Albanian Church brings together communities of Albanian origin established in southern Italy and Sicily between the 15th and 16th centuries. It faithfully preserves the Byzantine tradition and has never lost communion with Rome. The Monastery of Grottaferrata, founded in 1004 near Rome, remains the only territorial Byzantine monastery in Italy today.Macedonian Greek Catholic ChurchThe Macedonian Greek Catholic Church is composed of the Byzantine-rite Catholics of North Macedonia. It originated from movements seeking union with Rome during the 19th and 20th centuries. It is one of the smallest Eastern Catholic Churches.Melkite Greek Catholic ChurchThe Melkite Greek Catholic Church originated in 1724 following a schism within the Patriarchate of Antioch. It has a significant presence around the world, including in Lebanon, Syria, Brazil, Argentina, Israel, and Palestine. Its patriarch holds the title of Melkite patriarch of Antioch, Alexandria, and Jerusalem. It is the only Catholic Church whose patriarch simultaneously holds these three great historical patriarchal titles of the East. St. George Melkite Greek Catholic Cathedral in Córdoba, Argentina. | Credit: Córdoba Municipal Tourism Romanian Greek Catholic ChurchThe Romanian Greek Catholic Church arose through the union of part of the Romanian Orthodox Church with Rome in the late 17th century. It suffered severe persecution under the communist regime, which declared it illegal shortly after coming to power in 1948 until its demise in 1989. Seven of its bishops, who died during the communist persecution, were beatified by Pope Francis in 2019.Russian Greek Catholic Church This Church of the Byzantine Rite consists of small communities that preserve the Russian liturgical tradition in communion with the Holy See. It originated in the early 20th century and endured terrible Soviet persecution. Currently, it lacks a fully developed hierarchy, and many of its faithful live in the diaspora.Ruthenian ChurchThe Ruthenian Church has its roots in the Union of Uzhhorod of 1646 and is historically linked to the peoples of the Carpathians. It is present primarily in Slovakia, Ukraine, and the United States. In North America, it developed such a strong distinct identity that it has its own metropolitan see in Pittsburgh.Slovak Greek Catholic ChurchThe Slovak Greek Catholic Church shares its origins with the Ruthenian tradition and was restored following the communist persecutions of the 20th century.In 2008, it was elevated to the rank of a metropolitan “sui iuris” church. Among its best-known martyrs are Bishops Pavel Peter Gojdič and Vasiľ Hopko, canonized for their fidelity during the communist persecution.Ukrainian Greek Catholic ChurchThe Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church is the largest of all the Eastern Catholic Churches. It originated with the Union of Brest in 1596 and endured intense persecution during the Soviet era. It is led by a major archbishop based in Kyiv and has millions of faithful worldwide. For more than 40 years of communist persecution, it was the largest underground Catholic Church in the world. Pope Leo XIV greets Sviatoslav Shevchuk, primate of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. | Credit: Vatican Media Croatian and Serbian Greek Catholic Church (Eparchy of Križevci)The Eparchy of Križevci brings together Catholics of the Byzantine tradition from Croatia, Serbia, and other territories of the former Yugoslavia. Established in 1777, it serves the faithful of diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. Services in its parishes are celebrated in Croatian, Church Slavonic, Ruthenian, and other local languages, reflecting the cultural diversity of the Balkans.This story was first published by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.
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The 23 Eastern Catholic Churches: Ancient traditions in communion with Rome – #Catholic – When the Catholic Church is mentioned, many think exclusively of the Latin Church, to which the vast majority of the worldʼs Catholics belong. However, the Catholic Church is actually composed of 24 “sui iuris” or autonomous Churches: the Latin Church and 23 Eastern Catholic Churches, which are heirs to the ancient Christian traditions of the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Africa, and India.These Churches have preserved their own liturgical languages, spiritualities, disciplines, and forms of ecclesiastical organization. Some celebrate the liturgy in Arabic, Syriac, Geʼez, Coptic, Armenian, or Church Slavonic. Others maintain traditions that date back to the early communities founded by the apostles.All of them are in full communion with the pope, the successor of St. Peter and head of the worldwide Catholic Church.One Church, many traditionsThe Eastern Catholic Churches stem from five major liturgical traditions: Alexandrian, Antiochene, Armenian, Chaldean, and Byzantine. Each possesses its own theological, spiritual, and cultural heritage, developed over centuries within vastly different historical contexts.Among them are well-known Churches such as the Maronite Church of Lebanon, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, the Syro-Malabar Church of India, and the Coptic Catholic Church of Egypt. Many exist as minorities in countries where Islam or Orthodox Churches predominate, and several have endured persecution, war, or mass emigration.Governance through synodsOne of the most distinctive characteristics of these Churches is their internal organization. Unlike the practice often found in the Latin Church, many Eastern Churches operate through a robust synodal system.Each Church is structured around a synod of bishops, which serves as the primary governing body. This body legislates on numerous aspects of ecclesial life, makes pastoral decisions, and participates in the election of new bishops. In patriarchal and major archiepiscopal Churches, the synod even elects the patriarch or major archbishop, an election that must subsequently be recognized or confirmed in accordance with norms established by Rome.Pope Leo XIV has recently reformed the canon law governing Eastern patriarchal Churches to address a legal gap that hindered the resolution of internal conflicts. Through a motu proprio the pontiff granted greater autonomy to the bishops, enabling them to convene a synod independently of the patriarch and to seek his removal with a two-thirds majority vote, a measure that remains subject to the popeʼs final approval.The 23 Eastern ChurchesAlexandrian traditionCoptic Catholic ChurchThe Coptic Catholic Church has its roots in the ancient Church of Alexandria, founded according to tradition by St. Mark the Evangelist. It is primarily present in Egypt and uses the Alexandrian rite in the Coptic and Arabic languages.It entered into full communion with Rome in the 18th century and is headed by the Coptic patriarch of Alexandria. Interestingly, the Coptic language used in the liturgy represents the final historical stage of the language of ancient pharaonic Egypt, making this Church the direct heir to a cultural tradition spanning more than 3,000 years. Pope Leo XIV with representatives of the Coptic Church in St. Peter’s Square. | Credit: Vatican Media Ethiopian Catholic ChurchThe Ethiopian Catholic Church arose from communities of the Ge’ez tradition that reestablished full communion with the Holy See. It is present primarily in Ethiopia and celebrates the liturgy according to the Ethiopian Alexandrian rite, which is characterized by strong biblical symbolism and numerous distinctive traditions. It primarily uses the Ge’ez language in its liturgy and is distinguished by the integration of African cultural elements into ecclesial life. An interesting feature is that many of its celebrations include traditional instruments such as drums and sistrums, a practice uncommon in other Catholic Churches.Eritrean Catholic ChurchEstablished as a “sui iuris” metropolitan church in 2015 by Pope Francis, the Eritrean Catholic Church brings together Catholics of the Alexandrian tradition in Eritrea. It shares the use of the Ge’ez rite with the Ethiopian Church, although it possesses its own hierarchy.It represents a significant portion of the countryʼs Catholics and is notable for the vitality of its vocations and its strong Eastern liturgical identity. It is one of the youngest Eastern Catholic Churches from an institutional standpoint, even though its Christian roots date back to the early centuries.Armenian TraditionArmenian Catholic ChurchThe Armenian Catholic Church follows the liturgical and spiritual tradition of the Armenian people, the first kingdom to officially adopt Christianity in the year 301. It gradually entered into communion with Rome starting in the Middle Ages and is currently led by the patriarch of Cilicia of the Armenians. Its liturgy, traditionally celebrated in Classical Armenian, preserves unique elements derived from ancient Armenian traditions. A notable feature is the use of a curtain that is drawn and opened at specific moments during the liturgy, a custom inherited from early Christianity.Antiochene Tradition (West Syriac)Maronite ChurchThe Maronite Church is the only Eastern Catholic Church that has never broken communion with Rome. Its origins trace back to the communities gathered around St. Maron in Syria and Lebanon.It is headed by the Maronite patriarch of Antioch and follows the West Antiochene rite, retaining the liturgical use of Syriac alongside Arabic and other modern languages. Many liturgical texts contain words in Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, giving its celebrations a particularly evocative character. Lebanese Cardinal Béchara Boutros Raï, leader of the Maronite Catholic Church, delivers a homily during the Synod on Synodality on Oct. 9, 2023. | Credit: Vatican Media Syriac Catholic ChurchThe Syriac Catholic Church originated from groups within the Syriac Orthodox Church that entered into communion with Rome during the 17th and 18th centuries. It preserves the spiritual and liturgical heritage of the ancient Syriac tradition of Antioch. It is headed by the patriarch of Antioch of the Syriacs and celebrates the liturgy in West Syriac and in the vernacular languages ​​of its faithful. Its hymns and prayers retain very ancient expressions of Semitic Christianity that have scarcely changed since the early centuries.Syro-Malankara Catholic ChurchThe Syro-Malankara Catholic Church traces its origins to the Christian community of Kerala, India, which is historically linked to the West Syriac tradition. In 1930, a group led by Archbishop Geevarghese Mar Ivanios entered into communion with Rome. Today, it is a major archiepiscopal church that combines the Antiochene liturgical heritage with Indian cultural traditions. During certain important celebrations, the faithful participate in processions featuring ceremonial umbrellas and floral decorations characteristic of Indian culture.Chaldean tradition (East Syriac)Chaldean Catholic ChurchThe Chaldean Catholic Church originates from the ancient Church of the East and has its primary historical center in Mesopotamia, particularly in present-day Iraq. It entered into communion with Rome during the 16th and 17th centuries and is led by the patriarch of Babylon of the Chaldeans.It employs the Chaldean rite and preserves the liturgical use of Eastern Aramaic, a language closely related to the one spoken by Jesus. Its communities maintain some of the oldest Christian traditions in the world, in territories evangelized as early as the first centuries.Syro-Malabar Catholic ChurchThe Syro-Malabar Catholic Church is one of the largest Eastern Catholic Churches. It traces its roots to the so-called St. Thomas Christians of India, who, according to tradition, were evangelized by the apostle.It follows the East Syriac liturgical tradition and has been raised to the rank of a major archiepiscopal church. It currently has millions of faithful, both in India and in the diaspora. It is the second-largest Eastern Catholic Church in the world, surpassed only by the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil of the Syro-Malabar Church. | Credit: Syro-Malabar Church Byzantine traditionAlbanian Catholic ChurchThe Albanian Catholic Church of the Byzantine rite is a small Eastern Catholic Church found primarily in Albania. It arose from communities that adopted the Byzantine tradition while maintaining communion with Rome. Although small in number, it stands as an important testament to the religious diversity of the Balkans. Its history was marked by severe religious persecution under the Albanian communist regime, one of the harshest of the 20th century.Belarusian Catholic ChurchThe Belarusian Catholic Church follows the Slavic Byzantine tradition and traces its origins to the Union of Brest of 1596. Over the centuries, it endured persecution and long periods of institutional disappearance. Today, it exists primarily in small communities both within and outside Belarus. For decades, it survived mainly thanks to groups of emigrants scattered across Europe and the Americas.Byzantine-Slavic Rite Catholics in BulgariaThe Byzantine-Slavic Rite Catholic community in Bulgaria emerged in the 19th century, when a group of Bulgarian Christians sought communion with Rome while retaining the Byzantine-Slavic liturgical and spiritual tradition. A pivotal moment occurred in 1861 with the reception of Archimandrite Joseph Sokolsky into the Catholic Church and his episcopal consecration by Pope Pius IX.Today, Byzantine-Slavic Rite Catholics in Bulgaria comprise the Eparchy of St. John XXIII of Sofia, established in 2019 when the former apostolic exarchate was raised to the rank of eparchy. They preserve the Byzantine-Slavic liturgical tradition, celebrating the Divine Liturgy primarily in Bulgarian and Church Slavonic.At the same time, the Catholic Church in Bulgaria also includes the Latin dioceses of Sofia and Plovdiv-Nikópolis. Thus, Bulgaria is a particularly interesting example of the coexistence of Latin and Byzantine-Slavic traditions within the same jurisdiction.Greek Catholic ChurchThe Greek Catholic Church consists of communities of the Byzantine tradition located in Greece that are historically linked to communion with Rome. It preserves the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom and other forms characteristic of the Byzantine heritage. Situated in a country where the vast majority of Christians belong to the Orthodox Church, it constitutes a small but significant minority.Hungarian Greek Catholic ChurchThe Hungarian Greek Catholic Church arose from Byzantine-rite communities established in the Kingdom of Hungary. It uses Hungarian in its liturgy and was elevated to the rank of a metropolitan “sui iuris” Church in 2015. It was one of the first Eastern Churches to widely introduce a modern language, Hungarian, into its liturgical celebrations.Italo-Albanian ChurchThe Italo-Albanian Church brings together communities of Albanian origin established in southern Italy and Sicily between the 15th and 16th centuries. It faithfully preserves the Byzantine tradition and has never lost communion with Rome. The Monastery of Grottaferrata, founded in 1004 near Rome, remains the only territorial Byzantine monastery in Italy today.Macedonian Greek Catholic ChurchThe Macedonian Greek Catholic Church is composed of the Byzantine-rite Catholics of North Macedonia. It originated from movements seeking union with Rome during the 19th and 20th centuries. It is one of the smallest Eastern Catholic Churches.Melkite Greek Catholic ChurchThe Melkite Greek Catholic Church originated in 1724 following a schism within the Patriarchate of Antioch. It has a significant presence around the world, including in Lebanon, Syria, Brazil, Argentina, Israel, and Palestine. Its patriarch holds the title of Melkite patriarch of Antioch, Alexandria, and Jerusalem. It is the only Catholic Church whose patriarch simultaneously holds these three great historical patriarchal titles of the East. St. George Melkite Greek Catholic Cathedral in Córdoba, Argentina. | Credit: Córdoba Municipal Tourism Romanian Greek Catholic ChurchThe Romanian Greek Catholic Church arose through the union of part of the Romanian Orthodox Church with Rome in the late 17th century. It suffered severe persecution under the communist regime, which declared it illegal shortly after coming to power in 1948 until its demise in 1989. Seven of its bishops, who died during the communist persecution, were beatified by Pope Francis in 2019.Russian Greek Catholic Church This Church of the Byzantine Rite consists of small communities that preserve the Russian liturgical tradition in communion with the Holy See. It originated in the early 20th century and endured terrible Soviet persecution. Currently, it lacks a fully developed hierarchy, and many of its faithful live in the diaspora.Ruthenian ChurchThe Ruthenian Church has its roots in the Union of Uzhhorod of 1646 and is historically linked to the peoples of the Carpathians. It is present primarily in Slovakia, Ukraine, and the United States. In North America, it developed such a strong distinct identity that it has its own metropolitan see in Pittsburgh.Slovak Greek Catholic ChurchThe Slovak Greek Catholic Church shares its origins with the Ruthenian tradition and was restored following the communist persecutions of the 20th century.In 2008, it was elevated to the rank of a metropolitan “sui iuris” church. Among its best-known martyrs are Bishops Pavel Peter Gojdič and Vasiľ Hopko, canonized for their fidelity during the communist persecution.Ukrainian Greek Catholic ChurchThe Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church is the largest of all the Eastern Catholic Churches. It originated with the Union of Brest in 1596 and endured intense persecution during the Soviet era. It is led by a major archbishop based in Kyiv and has millions of faithful worldwide. For more than 40 years of communist persecution, it was the largest underground Catholic Church in the world. Pope Leo XIV greets Sviatoslav Shevchuk, primate of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church. | Credit: Vatican Media Croatian and Serbian Greek Catholic Church (Eparchy of Križevci)The Eparchy of Križevci brings together Catholics of the Byzantine tradition from Croatia, Serbia, and other territories of the former Yugoslavia. Established in 1777, it serves the faithful of diverse ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. Services in its parishes are celebrated in Croatian, Church Slavonic, Ruthenian, and other local languages, reflecting the cultural diversity of the Balkans.This story was first published by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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While the Catholic Church is often viewed from a Latin rite prism, it also includes 23 Eastern Churches that are in full communion as part of the one Catholic fold.

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Lebanese faithful to walk to St. Charbel’s shrine in prayer for Christians in country’s south – #Catholic – In southern Lebanon, the story of Christian villages is not defined only by the destruction and isolation left by war but also by a deeply rooted presence and a determination to remain.Rmeich, Ain Ebel, Debel, and other border towns continue to be home to families who have chosen not to leave their land despite the dangers and hardships they face.In support of these communities, a prayer walk will take place Sept. 26 from Byblos to Annaya, home to the shrine of St. Charbel, carrying the intentions of Christians who continue to remain in the south, turning the journey into an act of solidarity and hope.Anthony Jarjour, a native of Rmeich and organizer of the initiative, told ACI MENA, the Arabic-language sister service of EWTN News, that “the goal of the walk is to unite our prayers and offer them for the Christians who remain steadfast in the south.”“Sometimes we feel that the state has abandoned us and that some people are unaware that families are still living there, in the border villages, safeguarding the country’s borders simply through their continued presence,” he said.This is not the first time Jarjour has organized a pilgrimage of this kind. Last year, he walked approximately 112 miles from Rmeich to Annaya, offering the journey for those who had died in traffic accidents. Anthony Jarjour and fellow pilgrims at the St. Charbel Shrine in Lebanon in 2026. | Credit: Photo courtesy of Anthony Jarjour This year, because of road closures, he will begin his own journey Tuesday, Sept. 22, from Tyre, covering approximately 93 miles before reaching Annaya on Saturday to take part in the conclusion of the pilgrimage.Explaining why Annaya was chosen as the final destination, Jarjour said: “I have a personal experience with St. Charbel, and I felt his presence during the previous walk. I believe he always protects us through Our Lord Jesus. As for Annaya, it needs no introduction.”He said the pilgrimage is being organized in cooperation with several organizations and local authorities, including the Monastery of St. Maron in Annaya and the municipalities of Byblos and Annaya. Lebanon’s Civil Defense and Red Cross will provide support and assistance along the route.Jarjour has served his hometown of Rmeich and other communities along the border through volunteer work with the Red Cross, Caritas, and Civil Defense, taking part in field operations and helping residents during difficult circumstances. However, he wanted to add a spiritual dimension to that service. Through the pilgrimage, he seeks to turn every step into a prayer for peace and for those who continue to remain in southern Lebanon.This story was first published by ACI MENA, the Arabic-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.
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Lebanese faithful to walk to St. Charbel’s shrine in prayer for Christians in country’s south – #Catholic – In southern Lebanon, the story of Christian villages is not defined only by the destruction and isolation left by war but also by a deeply rooted presence and a determination to remain.Rmeich, Ain Ebel, Debel, and other border towns continue to be home to families who have chosen not to leave their land despite the dangers and hardships they face.In support of these communities, a prayer walk will take place Sept. 26 from Byblos to Annaya, home to the shrine of St. Charbel, carrying the intentions of Christians who continue to remain in the south, turning the journey into an act of solidarity and hope.Anthony Jarjour, a native of Rmeich and organizer of the initiative, told ACI MENA, the Arabic-language sister service of EWTN News, that “the goal of the walk is to unite our prayers and offer them for the Christians who remain steadfast in the south.”“Sometimes we feel that the state has abandoned us and that some people are unaware that families are still living there, in the border villages, safeguarding the country’s borders simply through their continued presence,” he said.This is not the first time Jarjour has organized a pilgrimage of this kind. Last year, he walked approximately 112 miles from Rmeich to Annaya, offering the journey for those who had died in traffic accidents. Anthony Jarjour and fellow pilgrims at the St. Charbel Shrine in Lebanon in 2026. | Credit: Photo courtesy of Anthony Jarjour This year, because of road closures, he will begin his own journey Tuesday, Sept. 22, from Tyre, covering approximately 93 miles before reaching Annaya on Saturday to take part in the conclusion of the pilgrimage.Explaining why Annaya was chosen as the final destination, Jarjour said: “I have a personal experience with St. Charbel, and I felt his presence during the previous walk. I believe he always protects us through Our Lord Jesus. As for Annaya, it needs no introduction.”He said the pilgrimage is being organized in cooperation with several organizations and local authorities, including the Monastery of St. Maron in Annaya and the municipalities of Byblos and Annaya. Lebanon’s Civil Defense and Red Cross will provide support and assistance along the route.Jarjour has served his hometown of Rmeich and other communities along the border through volunteer work with the Red Cross, Caritas, and Civil Defense, taking part in field operations and helping residents during difficult circumstances. However, he wanted to add a spiritual dimension to that service. Through the pilgrimage, he seeks to turn every step into a prayer for peace and for those who continue to remain in southern Lebanon.This story was first published by ACI MENA, the Arabic-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.

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A prayer pilgrimage from Byblos to Annaya aims to offer solidarity and hope to Christians in southern Lebanon.

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The Sky Today on Sunday, September 20: Juno’s movement

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Looking for a sky event this week? Check out our full Sky This Week column.  September 19: Mars meets Pollux Now is the best time to catch 145-mile-wide 3 Juno as it passes through a random collection of 9th- and 10th-magnitude stars. Now located in far southern Aquila near its border with Sagittarius, Juno glows at magnitude 9.6.Continue reading “The Sky Today on Sunday, September 20: Juno’s movement”

The post The Sky Today on Sunday, September 20: Juno’s movement appeared first on Astronomy Magazine.

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