The Path to God

Reflections Inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s Digital Encounter with Youth In John 21:15, the Risen Jesus turns to Peter with a question that is both tender and commanding: “Do you love Me?” And when Peter answers yes, Jesus entrusts him with a mission: “Feed My Lambs.” This mandate is not only for Peter. It is entrusted to the entire Church—including our Families in Christ Jesus Community here in Virginia . And today, as we reflect on the powerful message of Pope Leo XIV in his recent digital encounter with young people, we hear this call with renewed clarity: Our youth and young adults are the lambs Christ asks us to feed— to know, to accompany, to guide, and to love. The Heart of Pope Leo XIV’s Message: “You Are Not Just the Future—You Are the Present.” Throughout his dialogue with youth from across the United States, Pope Leo XIV emphasized a truth that should awaken every parish, household, and ministry team: “You are not only the future of the Church. You are the present.” This is n...

" The Virgin in Prayer "  by the Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato;  painted circa 1640–1650; Oil on canvas; housed in the National Gallery in London, UK . Recent guidance from the Vatican, through the Doctrinal Note Mater Populi Fidelis (Mother of the Faithful People), offers important clarity on how Catholics should properly understand the Virgin Mary's role in the work of salvation. This teaching affirms the beautiful truth about Mary while ensuring our focus remains firmly fixed on Jesus Christ, the one and only Savior. Part I: The Vatican's Clarification on Mary’s Cooperation The document addresses requests to define a fifth Marian dogma, particularly concerning the titles "Co-redemptrix" and "Mediatrix of all graces." A. The Ruling on Controversial Titles "Co-redemptrix" is Ruled Out: The Teaching: The document states that the use of this title is inappropriate . The Reason: It risks obscuring the truth of Christ's uni...