While it might not be strange to see a priest teaching theology in a Catholic school, Father Mark Francis Manzano packs a background heavy in the sciences as part of his calling. He told the Catholic Anchor that, as a Dominican priest, the emphasis of his training lies in the sciences as stepping stones to theology.
The Easter Vigil, which takes place on the evening of Holy Saturday, April 15, is the high point of the passion and resurrection of Jesus. With a rich display of symbols, rites and readings, the church in worship expresses her faith in the mystery that brings her into being.
As Kevin and Rebecca Gitzen look forward to becoming Catholics at the Easter vigil, a unique part of their journey was the recent baptisms of their infant sons.
Governor Bill Walker has appointed one of Alaska’s most influential transgender and gay rights activists to serve on a quasi-judicial commission to root out alleged discrimination. The Legislature will vote April 13 on whether to confirm all of the governors appointees.
Can you imagine U.S. children under a tree, shifting as one to follow the shade, for five hours, without a break, to listen to a teacher? And then playing “school” at night? Or waiting in line for up to two hours for the chance to enter a library so they can read a book?
During the veneration, a priest or deacon holds a wooden crucifix while the faithful process to him at the foot of the sanctuary, as if to receive communion. There each person reverences the crucifix with a kiss or a bow.
Hundreds of faithful will take part in the annual Good Friday Faith Walk on April 14. The outdoor devotion will begin at various points across Anchorage with groups walking and praying the 14 Stations of the Cross. As they wind through city streets, the participants will meditate on the steps Jesus Christ took through his Passion and death on the very first Good Friday.
Except for the resurrection on Easter, Holy Thursday is possibly one of the most important, complex, and profound days of celebration in the Catholic Church. Holy Thursday celebrates the institution of the Eucharist as the true body and blood of Jesus Christ and the institution of the sacrament of the priesthood.
Under the guise of compassion, a physician assisted suicide bill (House Bill 54) has been filed by Representative Harriet Drummond in the Alaska Legislature. This so-called “Right to Die” bill is nothing less than state sponsored homicide. Homicide is the killing of one human being by another.
As we head into April, we enter what sometimes feels like the “dog days” of Lent. That phrase often describes the hottest, weariest days of summer, but it also refers to a time of sluggishness.