Spiritual Insights for Today:
In a recent statement, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines encouraged the faithful to start a ‘digital media fasting’. The bishops believe that by reducing digital consumption, individuals can regain inner peace, deepen their relationships, and become more aware of God’s presence in their daily lives.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, announced that the Holy See will not be partaking in the ‘Board of Peace’. This initiative, promoted by the U.S. president, aims to address conflicts in areas such as Gaza. The Vatican’s decision not to participate was made public by Cardinal Parolin.
EWTN Studios has launched a behind-the-scenes series of the musical ‘Bernadette’. The series, which offers an inside look at the production, can be viewed on various platforms including EWTN+, EWTN.com, EWTN’s YouTube Channel, and EWTN’s broadcast channel. This comes ahead of the musical’s U.S. premiere.
In Ireland, the traditional Confirmation Pledge has been updated to include a commitment to abstain from vaping and smoking. Auxiliary Bishop Michael Router of the Armagh Archdiocese welcomed the rewording of the pledge, which was announced to coincide with Temperance Sunday and the Lenten season.
In celebration of its 400th anniversary, St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican is opening new areas to the public, including the full terrace. Additionally, a ‘SmartPass’ digital entry system will be introduced. These changes are part of the Vatican’s efforts to mark this significant milestone in the basilica’s history.