The Siege of Czestochowa

The Siege of Czestochowa 1

Preliminary Note: The account of the siege of Czestochowa which we present here is based on the Memoirs of the Siege of Czestochowa by Father Augustine Kordecki (Pamietnik oblezenia Czestochowy, edited and with a preface by Jan Tokarski, London, Veritas, 1956.) Written by Friar Kordecki in response to a wish of King … Read more

What Are They Doing To Attract A Crowd Like This One?

What Are They Doing To Attract A Crowd Like This One?

When it comes to the apostolate, the primary concern of many reformers seems to be how to attract multitudes to the Church. The twentieth-century, more than any of the preceding ones, can be called the century of the multitudes. Everywhere multitudes gather — and for every reason: political rallies, sports games, rock … Read more

The Devil’s False Promise of Happiness

This scene is from the island of Ischia, in Italy, after a storm. Nature has recovered her cheerful appearance and an elderly peasant woman accompanied by her children – perhaps her grandchildren – walks up a hillside. The road is not made of asphalt, nor is it lined with movie theaters, cafes, … Read more

Dignity and Distinction for Both Great and Small

Dignity and Distinction for Both Great and Small 1

Sir Winston Churchill – born of an American mother and an English father – reached the apex of human greatness in his country, and attained it deservedly by his exceptional talents, the unusual scope of his personality, and the merit of the many services he rendered his country during the course of … Read more

Was Youth Made for Pleasure or Heroism?

Was Youth Made for Pleasure or Heroism?

With the guitar hanging around his neck and the microphone in his hand, Elvis Presley is shown in the photo singing and dancing before a frenzied public. In man, the intelligence ought to direct the will, and both of them should in turn enlighten the sensibility, guiding it and supporting it to … Read more

Are Museums Sepulchers for Culture?

Are Museums Sepulchers for Culture? 1

Who has not felt the frustration that typically assails one after visiting a large museum? Wandering through the rooms and galleries where rare objects and masterpieces are exhibited, the soul expands and is enriched by the contemplation of a thousand marvels. Yet, at the same time, a sensation of emptiness, unnaturalness and … Read more

Our Lord’s Internal Struggle and Ours

Our Lord’s Internal Struggle and Ours 1

The following text is an excerpt from a lecture given by Professor Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira on March 31, 1984. It has been translated and adapted for publishing without Prof. de Oliveira’s revision. –Ed. There are five sorrowful mysteries of the rosary. Each represents a different aspect of Our Lord’s Passion. Rather … Read more

Saint Gemma Galgani

Saint Gemma Galgani 4

This photograph is of Saint Gemma Galgani (1878-1903), a famous mystic who lived in the enchanting town of Lucca, Italy. Her countenance is impressive for several reasons. First, we note her profound reflection and the harmony of her traits. Second, the saint’s gaze has something elevated and sublime about it. Her thoughts … Read more