Â鶹ԭ´´

What was the Birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary?

The birth of Mary, also known as the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, is celebrated every year on September 8. Although the exact details of her birth are not mentioned in the Bible, this date is widely believed and celebrated in Catholic and Orthodox Christianity. Her exact date of birth was mentioned by some of the earliest Christian writers from the first centuries and was passed down through generations.

According to early Christian writings, Mary’s parents, Joachim and Anne, were a loving and elderly couple who had been unable to conceive a child for many years. Through prayer and divine intervention, they were finally blessed with the birth of their daughter Mary. Her birth is considered miraculous and a sign of God’s favor.

Mary’s birth is celebrated with joy and reverence as she is seen as the chosen mother for the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Her birth is seen as an important moment in salvation history, as it marked the beginning of God’s plan for humanity’s redemption.

Devotion to the birth of Mary is recognized all over the world, with many churches and communities celebrating her nativity with special Masses, processions and prayers. It is a time to reflect on Mary’s role as the Mother of Jesus and her significant place in our Catholic faith.

The birth of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated not only as a historical event but also as a spiritual reminder of God’s grace, mercy and faithfulness. It is a time for believers to honour Mary’s humility, purity and willingness to be part of God’s divine plan. Her birth serves as an inspiration for Christians to emulate her virtues and seek her intercession in their spiritual journey.

Happy Birthday Mary!

What is International Literacy Day?

Since 1967, International Literacy Day (ILD) has taken place annually on September 8th worldwide. The main objective is to remind individuals of the literacy problems that still exist within our communities. Founded by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), ILD has paved the way to raise awareness of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights.

Despite literacy rates increasing by 4 percent every 5 years, illiteracy still remains an ongoing problem. There are more than 750 million adults who cannot read. In 1965, the World Conference of Ministers of Education on the Eradication of Illiteracy held a meeting which aimed to recognize and support ILD. They wished to incentivize reading and unify one’s community by teaching people the basics of reading and writing. In addition, the goal was to begin to encourage people to go to a library, attend or co-ordinate a literacy support program or even host book readings to encourage and help those who are struggling with literacy. 

International Literacy Day serves as an opportunity to promote literacy for all individuals and in doing so, build self-confidence, as well as eradicate poverty and gender inequality. The hope is to bring international awareness of the large number of individuals worldwide who still lack basic literacy skills. Lacking these basic skills hinders access to education, employment and social inclusion. It is very important to recognize that literacy is a fundamental human right and a pathway toward personal and societal development.

International Literacy Day serves as a global call to action, urging governments, organizations, communities and individuals to prioritize literacy education, create an inclusive learning environment and work towards achieving universal literacy for all.

What is FASD Awareness Day?

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Day is observed on September 9th each year to raise awareness and encourage education about FASD and support those impacted by them. FASD affects an individual’s physical, mental and psychological development. These effects can include physical disabilities, developmental delays, learning difficulties, behavioral challenges, as well as other lifelong health issues. The hope for this day is to inspire education and understanding for individuals and families affected by FASD. It is also to recognize those impacted by FASD and show them their community is here to support them.

Every year on September 9th, a variety of events and activities take place to promote understanding and support for individuals with the FASD. Examples of these may include awareness campaigns, educational workshops, community gatherings and advocacy efforts. The goal is to reduce stigma, increase knowledge about FASD, and ensure that affected individuals receive the support and resources they need to thrive.

FASD Day also provides an opportunity for affected individuals and their families to share their stories and experiences, fostering a sense of community and support. It serves as a reminder that prevention and early intervention are crucial in reducing the incidence of FASD and improving the quality of life for those living with it.

Recognizing FASD day is extremely important for organizations and communities to work to enhance public understanding, promote prevention efforts and advocate for policies that support individuals affected by FASD. The ultimate aim is to create a society that is aware, compassionate and supportive of those living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and to inspire education regarding its causes and impacts.

What is National Grandparents Day?

In Canada, National Grandparents Day is celebrated every year on the second Sunday in September. It is a day dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the invaluable contributions of grandparents to families and society as a whole.

National Grandparents Day in Canada is an opportunity for individuals and families to honour and express gratitude for the wisdom, love and guidance that grandparents provide. It is a time to reflect on the unique role that grandparents play in shaping the lives of their grandchildren and passing down important values, traditions and cultural heritage.

The observance of National Grandparents Day in Canada involves various activities and celebrations. Families may gather for special meals, organize outings or picnics or engage in meaningful conversations and storytelling with grandparents. Through National Grandparents Day, Canadians aim to strengthen bonds and promote mutual respect and understanding between different generations. It is an occasion to bridge the generation gap, foster empathy and appreciate the wealth of knowledge and experiences that grandparents bring to their families and communities.

Additionally, National Grandparents Day sets aside a special day for us to recognize the Grandparents who have left this world to be with God in Heaven. It is a valuable opportunity to reflect on their life’s journey and to commemorate the vital roles they played in your life and family history.

The celebration of National Grandparents Day also draws attention to the unique challenges faced by grandparents, such as taking on caregiving responsibilities or providing support in blended families. It serves as a reminder to society to acknowledge and support the vital role of grandparents in nurturing the well-being and development of future generations.

By setting aside a specific day to honour grandparents, we recognize the important role they play in shaping the fabric of society. National Grandparents Day promotes gratitude, love and respect for the elderly and serves as a call to cherish and learn from the wisdom and guidance of grandparents. It is a time to create lasting memories, strengthen family ties and express appreciation for the significant contributions that grandparents make in the lives of their grandchildren and the entire community.

What is World Suicide Prevention Day?

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually on September 10th with the aim of raising awareness about suicide prevention and promoting action to reduce the number of suicides worldwide. It serves as a reminder that suicide is preventable and that everyone can play a role in saving lives.

Many international organizations work together to promote this cause worldwide, such as the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH); with mental health professionals, and community groups. The primary goal is to encourage individuals, communities and governments to take action in preventing suicide by reminding individuals that life, in fact, can get better. World Suicide Prevention Day provides an opportunity to engage in open discussions about mental health, destigmatize suicide, and promote understanding and support for those struggling with suicidal thoughts.

On this day, people are encouraged to educate themselves about the signs of suicide risk, to reach out to loved ones and to offer support and empathy to all. Awareness campaigns and events are organized to promote positive mental health resources, suicide prevention hotlines and strategies for early intervention. It is also important to foster a caring and compassionate society that prioritizes mental health, including access to mental health services. More and more advocacy campaigns are being launched to call for increased funding and resources for mental health services, policy changes to improve mental health care accessibility, and the implementation of effective suicide prevention strategies at a global level. It is an opportunity to bring attention to the urgency of suicide prevention and push for collaborative action among governments, organizations and communities.

The significance of World Suicide Prevention Day extends beyond a single day of observance. It serves as a reminder that suicide prevention is an ongoing effort that requires collective action, destigmatization of mental health and the creation of supportive environments. By raising awareness and working together, we can strive to prevent suicides, support those affected by mental health challenges and foster a world where every life is valued and protected.

Who was St. John Chrysostom?

St. John Chrysostom was an influential figure in early Christianity and perhaps one of the most prominent Church Fathers in history. He lived from 349 to 407 AD. and has had contributed a lasting impact on the Christian way of living as a preacher, theologian, and bishop.

Born in present-day Turkey,he was known for his amazing and powerful preaching style, which earned him the title “Chrysostom,” which means “golden mouth” in Greek. St. John Chrysotom’s homilies were characterized by their passionate delivery, rich imagery and moral appeal. His ability to captivate audiences and communicate profound spiritual truths made him one of the most celebrated preachers of his time. However, his spiritual influence over the people made him the enemy of many emperors and bishops, who had him exiled from their territories.

St. John Chrysostom’s theological writings also played a significant role in shaping Christian doctrine. He emphasized the importance of scripture, particularly the New Testament, in guiding Christian life and teaching. Chrysostom’s commentaries on the Bible, his homilies and commentaries on the Gospel, have been widely studied, admired and preached throughout the centuries.

In addition to his preaching and theological writings, St. John Chrysostom served as the Archbishop of Constantinople. During his time as a bishop, he worked hard to reform the Church and address various social issues, including the lavish lifestyle of the clergy and the unequal distribution of wealth. Chrysostom’s strong stance against corruption and his commitment to social justice often brought him into conflict with the political and religious authorities of his time.

St. John Chrysostom’s influence extended beyond his lifetime. His teachings on humility, charity, and the pursuit of holiness continue to inspire people today. He is recognized as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches. Throughout history, St. John Chrysostom’s legacy as a preacher, theologian and advocate for social justice has earned him a revered place among the great figures of Christianity.