Imelda Lambertini, Saint: The Little Girl With the Big Love for Jesus

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Saint Imelda Lambertini‘s extraordinary story beautifully illustrates the profound power of childlike love and longing for Christ in the Eucharist. Even at the tender age of nine, her passionate desire to receive Jesus overcame earthly rules and customs through a miraculous intercession. Though she lived seven centuries ago, her inspiring example continues to kindle devotion […]

Infant of Atocha | The Divine Child Who Aid Prisoners and Miners

depiction of Holy-Infant-of-Atocha wearing pilgrim's garb including hat and shell

The Holy Infant of Atocha, or Santo Niño de Atocha, is a beloved and miraculous icon of the Christ Child in Spanish and Hispanic Catholic tradition. As the legend goes, this Divine Child would mysteriously appear in medieval Atocha, Spain to feed and give aid to imprisoned Christian men. Today, the little pilgrim infant remains […]

Infant Jesus of Prague Statue and Its Miracles

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The original statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague was created as a royal wedding gift from a Spanish Princess to her Austrian royal cousin in the 16th century. Over time, the effigy of the Christ Child became affiliated with mystical legends and miracles that fueled devotion in Prague and beyond. To this day, copies […]

Pope Innocent III

Mural of bearded Medieval Pope Innocent the Third bestowing blessings inside Italian abbey

Pope Innocent III (c. 1160-1216) was one of the most influential popes of the Middle Ages. Upon his election in 1198, Innocent sought to reform the papacy and establish its supreme authority over both spiritual and temporal matters in medieval Christendom. During his pontificate, Innocent centralized power in the papal curia, reformed the Roman Curia, […]

Isidore of Seville: Mind Behind the Medieval Encyclopedia

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Born in the heart of Visigothic Spain, Isidore of Seville (circa 560–636 AD) emerged as a towering intellect of the early Middle Ages. Esteemed as a scholar, he authored the monumental work “Etymologiae,” a compendium that aimed to preserve the entirety of human knowledge. His efforts not only fostered the intellectual life of medieval Europe […]

Indiction: Bridging Past and Present in Faith and Time

Ecumenical-Patriarch-Bartholomew-signing-Book-Indiction.

From the ancient Roman Empire to the Byzantine era, the concept of ‘Indiction‘ has played a pivotal role in shaping both temporal and spiritual realms. This 15-year astronomical cycle, initially a cornerstone of Roman tax policy, evolved into a significant marker of time within the Christian Church, symbolizing renewal and continuity. The journey of Indiction, […]

Ignatius of Antioch, Saint: The Journey to Martyrdom

Miniature—Ignatius-Theophorus—Basil-II-Menologion.

Discover the Enduring Legacy of a Pioneering Christian Theologian Born in the early 1st century, Ignatius of Antioch, often revered as Saint Ignatius, emerged as a pivotal figure in early Christianity’s formative years. His death, traditionally dated to around 107 AD, marked the culmination of his influential journey as a theologian and bishop. Ignatius’ writings, […]

Inquisition: Defending the Faith or Religious Repression??

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The Inquisition, a series of historical events that spanned centuries, remains a subject of profound controversy and intense debate. Emerging in the 12th century, this institution sought to preserve the sanctity of religious doctrine and moral order within society. However, its methods and implications have been widely scrutinized, raising questions about the balance between defending […]

Isaac | Biblical Figure

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Isaac, a central figure in the Judeo-Christian tradition, was born as the second patriarch of the Israelites. His life, intricately woven into the tapestry of Biblical history, spans a period marked by profound faith and significant challenges. As the beloved son of Abraham and Sarah and the father of Esau and Jacob, Isaac’s story is […]

Inter-Christian Dialogue

Inter-Christian dialogue, a pivotal aspect of ecumenical efforts, facilitates mutual understanding and cooperation among different Christian denominations. Rooted in the Christian tradition, this dialogue aims to bridge doctrinal differences, fostering unity without compromising individual beliefs. Historical Context Inter-Christian dialogue has evolved significantly over centuries. Initially, dialogues were informal, often occurring in response to theological disputes […]

Interreligious Dialogue | Understanding and Engagement

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Interreligious dialogue plays a vital role in fostering understanding and peace among various faith communities. It involves open and respectful exchanges between individuals or groups of different religious traditions. This process aims to build mutual respect and a deeper understanding of each other’s beliefs and practices. Historical Context of Interreligious Dialogue Tracing its roots, interreligious […]

Introduction to a Devout Life: A Timeless Guide to Spiritual Growth

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Analyzing Saint Francis de Sales’ Classic Work on Personal Holiness and Inner Transformation “Introduction to a Devout Life,” authored by Saint Francis de Sales (1567-1622) and published by Frederick Pustet & Co. in the early 1920s, stands as a cornerstone text in Christian spirituality. This lexicon entry critically examines the enduring impact and relevance of […]

Iconography in Christian Traditions

Breathtaking Protaton frescoes - Manuel Panselinos, Mount Athos.

Iconography, the visual representation and interpretation of subjects in the arts, particularly in religious contexts, plays a crucial role in the cultural and spiritual heritage of both Western and Eastern Christian traditions. This article delves into the distinctive schools of Macedonia and Crete, highlighting their unique contributions to the realm of iconography.   Etymological and […]