Establishing Old Roman intentional communities

A.M.D.G.
Feria VI infra Octavam Ascensionis

Carissimi

In our mission to “fidem servare” i.e. to “keep the faith”, establishing Old Roman intentional Catholic communities requires deliberate effort and planning to create a tight-knit congregation centered around shared beliefs and values. To establish an intentional Catholic community, it is important to develop a growth-focused vision centered on shared values and beliefs.

Like other traditional Catholic apostolates, Old Roman missions and chapels have been established as places independent of the institutional hierarchy to provide the traditional Mass and sacraments. Old Roman missions and chapels aim to provide a more traditional and spiritual approach to worship, and they have a strong following among the faithful who seek a more authentic Catholic experience. But in order to develop intentional communities, it is necessary to have an appreciation for the faith that goes beyond the reception of the sacraments, and instead focuses on a deeper understanding of Catholic teaching and theology.

To foster a Catholic way of life, regular catechism, spiritual direction, and formation of a Catholic worldview that guides all aspects of one’s life is essential. Moreover, intentional communities necessitate a shared set of values and a strong commitment to live by them collectively. This entails a willingness to prioritize the common good over personal preferences, a devoted practice of prayer and spiritual development, and a readiness to serve others. By creating intentional communities based on these principles, Old Roman missions and chapels can offer a compelling testimony to the life-altering potential of the Catholic faith.

How to begin…

Choosing a location served by the Old Roman apostolate or some other traditional Catholic mission or chapel can have several benefits for those seeking to practice their faith. Firstly, such locations often provide a more traditional form of worship, with a focus on ritual and reverence. This can be appealing to those who prefer a more solemn and contemplative atmosphere. Additionally, these locations may offer a greater sense of community, as fellow worshippers are often like-minded individuals who share similar beliefs and values.

Forming a traditional Catholic community can be a rewarding and fulfilling endeavor for those who seek to deepen their faith and connect with like-minded individuals. Here are some steps to get started:

  1. Identify like-minded individuals: Reach out to fellow Catholics in your area who share a desire to live out their faith in a traditional way. Attend Latin Masses and traditional Catholic events to meet others who may be interested in forming a community.
  2. Define your community’s values: Decide what values will guide your community. could include devotion to the traditional of the Catholic Church, a commitment to prayer and sacraments, a dedication to serving others, or a focus on traditional family life.
  3. Establish a regular meeting schedule: Determine a regular time and place to meet as a community. This could be for Mass, prayer, fellowship, or any of these.
  4. Plan events: Organize events and activities that align with your community’s values. These could include traditional devotions, study groups, retreats, volunteer work, and social events.
  5. Seek guidance from a priest: It’s important to seek guidance from a traditional Catholic priest who can provide spiritual direction and support for your community.
  6. Stay connected: Use social media and other communication tools to stay connected with your community members between meetings and events. This can help build a sense of community and deepen relationships.

Forming an intentional traditional Catholic community takes time and effort, but the rewards can be significant. By coming together in faith and fellowship, you can strengthen your own faith and build a community that supports and encourages one another in your journey to heaven.

Finding like-minded individuals

If you are a traditional Catholic looking to connect with others who share beliefs there are several ways to find like-minded individuals.

  1. Attend Traditional Latin: The Traditional Latin Mass is celebrated according to the pre-Vatican II liturgy. Attending the Traditional Latin Mass can be a great way to find traditional Catholics who share your beliefs and values.
  2. Join Catholic Groups: Joining Old Roman and Traditional Catholic groups on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit can be an excellent way to connect with like-minded traditional Catholics from all around the world.
  3. Attend Traditional Catholic Conferences: Traditional Catholic conferences are held in different parts of the world and offer an opportunity to meet and connect with other traditional Catholics.
  4. Read Traditional Catholic Literature: Reading Catholic literature can provide an opportunity to connect with other traditional Catholics who share your interests and values.
  5. Volunteer at Traditional Catholic Organizations: Volunteering at Old Roman or traditional Catholic organizations can be an excellent way to connect with other traditional Catholics who share your beliefs and values.

In conclusion, finding like-minded traditional Catholics can be challenging, but attending Traditional Latin Mass, joining Traditional Catholic groups, attending Traditional Catholic Conferences, reading Traditional Catholic Literature, and volunteering at Traditional Catholic Organizations can help you connect with other traditional Catholics who share your values and beliefs.

Defining values

To define traditional Catholic values for an intentional community, it is essential to first understand what these values entail. The Catholic faith is built on a foundation of love, compassion, and service to others. It emphasizes the importance of family, community, and the common good.

To find traditional Catholic values for an intentional community, one can start by looking to the teachings of the Church and the writings of the saints. These sources provide a wealth of knowledge on how to live a life that is rooted in Catholic values.

Additionally, it can be helpful to consult with other Catholic communities and organizations to learn from their experiences and practices. These communities can provide guidance how to incorporate Catholic values into daily life and decision-making processes.

Finally, prayer and reflection are critical components of defining traditional Catholic values for an intentional community. By seeking guidance from God and the Holy Spirit, community members can discern what values are most important and how to live them out in their daily lives.

Overall, defining traditional Catholic values for an intentional community requires a commitment to learning, collaboration, and spiritual growth. By seeking guidance from the Church, other Catholic communities, and God, community members can build a strong foundation that fosters love, compassion, and service to others.

Establishing a house

Starting an intentional Catholic community is exciting opportunity to live out your faith in community with others. However, finding the perfect house to start your community can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to help you find the right house for your intentional Catholic community.

  1. Pray for guidance: Begin by praying for guidance. Ask God to lead you to the right house and to provide for your needs. Trust that He will guide you to the right place.
  2. Consider your budget: Determine your budget before you begin your search. This will help you narrow down your options and prevent you from getting in over your head financially. Will you rent a place or buy property?
  3. Location: Consider the location of the house. Is it in a safe neighborhood? Is it close to an Old Roman mission or other traditional Catholic community resources? Is it easily accessible for visitors?
  4. Size: Determine the size of the house you need. How many people will be living in the community? How much space do you need for common areas, a domestic altar and individual living spaces?
  5. Amenities: Consider the amenities needed. Do you need a large kitchen for communal meals? Do you need multiple bathrooms and bedrooms? Do you need a garden or outdoor space for community activities?
  6. Community zoning: Check the zoning laws in the area to ensure that you can legally operate an intentional community house or house of multiple occupation.
  7. Inspection: Before making an offer on a house, be sure to have it inspected. Look for any potential issues that may need to be addressed before moving in, particularly maintenance of the building and whose responsible.

Remember, finding the perfect house for your intentional Catholic community may take time, but with prayer and patience, you will find the right place. Trust in God’s plan and allow Him to guide you in this exciting new chapter of your faith journey.

Old Roman assistance

The Congregation of Divine Charity is an Old Roman organization that offers guidance and support to individuals and communities who are interested in establishing intentional Catholic communities. The organization’s primary mission is to help individuals discern their religious vocation, to support religious communities, and to support lay apostolates. In addition, the Congregation works to promote the establishment of intentional Catholic communities, groups of individuals who live together in accordance with Catholic values and principles. If you are interested in learning more about intentional Catholic communities or would like assistance in establishing one, the Congregation of Divine Charity is a valuable resource to consider.

Oremus pro invicem
✠Jerome


“Dum spiro spero”: a pastoral epistle for New Year 2023

Carissimi

“Dum spiro spero” (While I breathe, I hope) was the personal motto inscribed by King Charles I of England in a folio of Shakespeare’s works discovered as one of the last books he read before his execution in 1649. Here in the UK following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, we enter 2023 and another Carolingian reign, that of King Charles III in a world filled with uncertainty. Globally we have faced immense challenges over the past year – a pandemic, war, economic hardship, and social divides that have been deepened by politics. The crisis for the Faith in the Church is still extant. These issues remain unresolved, yet there is hope for us who breathe to find new strength and courage to continue forward.

As Christians, we know that hope is never lost. As I write, Catholics and others of goodwill around the world are praying for Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI. May his life and example inspire us to continue in faith and hope. As we pray for whatever God wills for him, let us remember the Scripture that reminds us: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11). Let us trust in God’s will for each of us and remember the future He ultimately desires for us all, to be with Him.

The apostle tells us that “Hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Romans 5:5) This New Year’s Day, let us embrace this hope and use it to guide our lives. Let us also remember that God is with us in every moment and that He will never leave us or forsake us. He is our source of strength and comfort, and He will give us the courage to face whatever comes our way. We can put our trust in Him and know that His love will never fail.

In this New Year, I invite you to join me in reflecting on what is most important in life. Even amidst the difficulties of our current reality, let us remember that God is with us at all times and His love never fails. Let us be filled with gratitude for our blessings – both big and small – and use these gifts to bring hope and healing to our world. Let us also strive to be more mindful of the needs of others and practice compassion towards those who are different from us. Together, let us be an example of God’s love and grace in this New Year.

Let us take this time as an opportunity for growth – not only in our understanding of faith but also in our relationships with one another. We are all called to be ambassadors of peace; may we strive each day to embody this calling through acts of kindness, mercy, and justice. May we use this New Year as a chance to open ourselves up even further to God’s plan for our lives so that He can work through us for His glory!

As we embark on this journey into 2023 together, may the Lord bless you abundantly! Remember it is only while we breathe that we may attain our Christian Hope! May your faith grow stronger every day as you seek Him above all else! Amen!

With my prayers for you all this New Year

I.X.

Brichtelmestunensis
Dominica Infra Octavam Nativitatis MMXXII A.D.



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ORDO January 2023

ANNIVERSARIES

REQUIEM AETERNAM
11 Jan 1958 ✠Carmel Henry Carfora – reposed in the Lord
30 Jan ✠Francis Everden Glenn OSC

AD MULTOS ANNOS
31 Jan 2020 Mt Revd Rommel Banag (sub con) – ordained to the sacred presbyterate
31 Jan 2020 Revd Juvanni (Cyril) A. Bernales (sub con) – ordained to the sacred presbyterate
31 Jan 2020 Mt Revd Joash Diaz Jaime (sub con) – ordained to the sacred presbyterate
31 Jan 2020 Revd José Rodelon Portez (sub con) – ordained to the sacred presbyterate

Michaelmas Ordinations 2022

On Saturday, September 24th, HE ✠Jerome of Selsey, ordained to the sacred priesthood in the Traditional Latin Rite broadcast live from the historic Clarissine Church of the Elevation of the Holy Cross in Bratislava, the Revd Dr Adam Sýkora PhD (Karlova) & the Revd Dr Robert Wilson PhD (Cantab).

Dr Sýkora will serve the Old Roman apostolate in Slovakia. A theology doctoral graduate of the Univerzita Karlova, Prague and a Masters degree graduate of the Roman Catholic Faculty of Theology of Cyril and Methodius of Comenius University where he received seminary formation. Dr Sýkora is also a trained psychologist.

Dr Wilson will serve the Old Roman apostolate in the United Kingdom. A theology doctoral graduate of Cambridge University, and a Masters degree graduate of Selwyn College, Dr Wilson is an archivist and librarian at the Bodleian Library, Oxford University, one of the oldest libraries in Europe.

Likewise, in Detroit IL, USA, HE ✠Nioclas of Movilla, ordained to the sacred priesthood via letters dimissorial in the Traditional Latin Rite, the Revd Fr. Stanislaus Guadalupe Ybarra, FMCD (Esteban) of the Littlest Sons of the Sweetest Heart of The Most Blessed Virgin Mary, a religious order under the Congregation of Divine Charity. Fr Stanislaus is a Masters degree graduate of the Catholic University of America, Washington DC and received religious formation in the Congregation of Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary

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Tértio Kaléndas Februárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Tértio Kaléndas Februárii. Luna. The Thirtieth Day of January.The Night of the Moon. 

Sanctæ Martínæ, Vírginis et Mártyris, cujus dies natális Kaléndis Januárii recólitur. St. Martina, virgin and martyr, who is commemorated on her birthday, the first day of this month.

Edéssæ, in Syria, sancti Barsimǽi Epíscopi, qui, cum Gentíles plúrimos convertísset ad fidem et præmisísset ad corónam, eos secútus est, sub Trajáno, cum palma martyrii. At Edessa in Syria, in the reign of Trajan, St. Barsimaeus, bishop, who converted many Gentiles to the faith, sent them before him to gain their crown, and then followed them with the palm of martyrdom.

Antiochíæ pássio beáti Hippólyti Presbyteri, qui, decéptus aliquándiu schísmate Nováti, sed, operánte grátia Christi, corréctus, ad unitátem Ecclésiæ rédiit, pro qua et in qua póstea illústre martyrium consummávit. Hic, rogátus a suis quænam secta vérior esse servándam quam Petri Cáthedra custodíret, júgulum præbuit. At Antioch, the passion of the blessed Hippolytus, priest, who for a short time deceived by the Novatian schism, was converted by the grace of Christ, and returned to the unity of the Church, for which and in which he afterwards underwent a glorious martyrdom. Being asked by the schismatics, which was the better side, he said that he detested the doctrine of Novatus, and that the faith which the Chair of Peter taught ought to be professed, after which he was beheaded.
In Africa pássio sanctórum Mártyrum Feliciáni, Philappiáni et aliórum centum vigínti quátuor. In Africa, the passion of the holy martyrs Felician, Philappian, and one hundred and twenty-four others.
Item beáti Alexándri, qui, in persecutióne Décii, comprehénsus est, ac, longævæ ætátis veneránda canítie et confessióne iteráta respléndens, inter carníficum torménta réddidit spíritum. Blessed Alexander, a man of venerable aspect and advanced age, who was apprehended in the persecution of Decius. After gloriously and repeatedly confessing the faith, in the midst of torments he gave up his soul unto God.
Edéssæ, in Syria, sancti Barsis Epíscopi, dono curatiónum illústris; qui, a Valénte, Imperatóre Ariáno, in díssitas regiónes ob fidem cathólicam relegátus, ac tríplici mutatióne fatigátus exsílii, vitam finívit. At Edessa in Syria, St Barses, bishop, renowned for the gift of healing diseases. For holding to the Catholic faith he was banished by the Arian emperor Valens into the most remote corner of that country, and he there ended his days.
Hierosólymis natális sancti Matthíæ Epíscopi, de quo mira et plena fídei gesta narrántur; qui, sub Hadriáno, multa pro Christo perpéssus est, ac demum in pace quiévit. At Jerusalem, the birthday of St. Matthias, bishop, of whom wonderful deeds are related which were inspired by faith. After having endured many trials for Christ under Adrian, he passed away in peace.
Papíæ sancti Armentárii, Epíscopi et Confessóris. At Pavia, St. Armentarius, bishop and confessor.

In Malbódio, Hannóniæ monastério, sanctæ Aldegúndis Vírginis, témpore Dagobérti Regis. In Hainaut, in the monastery of Maubeuge, St. Aldegund, virgin, who lived in the time of King Dagobert.

Vitérbii sanctæ Hyacínthæ de Mariscóttis Vírginis, ex tértio sancti Francísci Ordine Sanctimoniális, pæniténtia et caritáte insígnis; quam Pius Papa Séptimus Sanctis adscrípsit. At Viterbo, the holy virgin Hyacinth Mariscotti, a nun of the Third Order of St. Francis, distinguished for the virtues of penance and charity. She was inscribed among the saints by Pope Pius VII.

Medioláni sanctæ Savínæ, féminæ religiosíssimæ, quæ, ad sepúlcra sanctórum Náboris et Felícis Mártyrum orans, obdormívit in Dómino. At Milan, St. Savina, a most religious woman, who went to rest in the Lord while praying at the tomb of the holy martyrs Nabor and Felix.

In território Parisiénsi sanctæ Bathíldis Regínæ, sanctitáte et miraculórum glória præcláræ. In the district of Paris, St. Bathilde, queen, renowned for the worthiness of her miracles and her sanctity.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum.
R.  Deo grátias.
And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R.  Thanks be to God.

January XXX.
St. Bathildes, Queen of France
St. Martina, Virgin and Martyr
St. Aldegondes, Virgin and Abbess
St. Barsimæus, Bishop and Martyr

FOR NEWS OF CONTEMPORARY MARTYRS…

Open Doors – The world’s largest outreach to persecuted Christians in the most high-risk places.

Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East – providing humanitarian relief in Iraq through St George’s Church and Clinic.

Voice of the Persecuted – Informing the world of Christian persecution, one of the worst humanitarian crises on the planet, today.

Tértio Kaléndas Januárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Tértio Kaléndas Januárii.  Luna. The Thirtieth Day of December. The Night of the Moon.

Romæ natális sancti Felícis Primi, Papæ et Mártyris, qui sub Aureliáno Príncipe Ecclésiam rexit.  Ipsíus tamen festum tértio Kaléndas Júnii celebrátur. At Rome, the birthday of St. Felix I, pope and martyr, who governed the Church during the reign of Emperor Aurelian.  His feast day is celebrated on the 30th of May. Spoléti item natális sanctórum Mártyrum Sabíni, Assisiénsis Epíscopi, atque Exsuperántii et Marcélli Diaconórum, ac Venustiáni Præsidis cum uxóre et fíliis, sub Maximiáno Imperatóre. Ex ipsis Marcéllus et Exsuperántius, primum equúleo suspénsi, deínde fústibus gráviter mactáti, postrémum, abrási úngulis et láterum exustióne assáti, martyrium complevérunt; Venustiánus autem non multo post, simul cum uxóre et fíliis, est gládio necátus; sanctus vero Sabínus, post detruncatiónem mánuum et diútinam cárceris maceratiónem, ad mortem usque cæsus est. Horum martyrium, licet divérso exstíterit témpore, una tamen die recólitur. At Spoleto, the birthday also of the holy martyrs Sabinus, bishop, Exuperantius and Marcellus, deacons, and also Venustian, governor, along with his wife and sons, under Emperor Maximian. Marcellus and Exuperantius were first racked, then severely beaten with rods; afterwards being torn with iron hooks, and burned in the sides, they fulfilled their martyrdom. Not long after, Venustian was put to the sword with his wife and sons. St. Sabinus, after having his hands cut off, and being a long time confined in prison, was scourged to death. The martyrdom of these saints is commemorated on the same day, although it occurred at different times. Alexandríæ sanctórum Mansuéti, Sevéri, Appiáni, Donáti, Honórii et Sociórum Mártyrum. At Alexandria, the Saints Mansuetus, Severus, Appian, Donatus, Honorius, and their martyr companions. Thessalonícæ sanctæ Anysiæ Mártyris. At Thessalonica, St. Anysia, martyr. Ibídem sancti Anysii, ejúsdem civitátis Epíscopi. Likewise, St. Anysius, bishop of the same city. Medioláni sancti Eugénii, Epíscopi et Confessóris. At Milan, St. Eugene, bishop and confessor. Ravénnæ sancti Libérii Epíscopi. At Ravenna, St. Liberius, bishop. Aquilæ, in Vestínis, sancti Rainérii Epíscopi. At Aquila, in Abruzzi, St. Rainer, bishop.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum. And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.

R. Deo grátias. R. Thanks be to God.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:
St. Sabinus, Bishop of Assisium, and His Companions, Martyrs
St. Anysia, Martyr
St. Maximus, Confessor

ORCCE Ordo: Dominica Infra Octavam Nativitatis

Nota Bene: 

Christians Not Target of Baghdad Bombings, Iraqi Officials Say

Different faiths distributed Red Roses and Christmas Cards at the Churches of Rawalpindi and Islamabad city

Central African Republic Christians petition for President’s removal

Coptic Church Forced to Close Due to Violence From Muslim Brotherhood Backed Aggressors

Christian Syrian Refugees Denied Visas to West

Christians being attack on Christmas in Mideast

Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola RESCUED : Nigeria’s Anglican Leader Kidnapped by Gunmen

VIDEO reports: Iraq bombings target Christians on Christmas

Joy and fear for Christians in Sri Lanka

Egyptian Copts to celebrate Christmas ‘no matter the circumstance’

Statement: Terror attack on Nice, France

On Thursday, October 29th 2020 three people died and several others were injured after a knife attack took place in the basilica of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, Nice, France.

According to the French newspaper Le Figaro, an elderly woman, a sacristan, and another woman were killed in the attack; the elderly woman was found inside the church “nearly beheaded,” while the other woman, Simone Barretto Silva aged 44 and a mother of three children, died of stabbing wounds after fleeing the attack to a nearby café.  Her final words were: “tell my children that I love them”. Vincent Loquès, a fifty-five year old father of two children Le Parisien newspaper reported, sacristan of the Notre Dame basilica was killed as he prepared for the first Mass of the day after a Tunisian migrant, Brahim Aoussaoui attacked the church.

Aoussaoui was shot fourteen times by armed police as he screamed “Allahu Akbar” [God is greatest in Arabic] during the attack and ‘while under medication’ as he was taken to the city’s Pasteur hospital, Nice’s Mayor, Christian Estrosi said. Investigators found two unused knives, a Koran and two mobile phones, in addition to a bag with some personal effects. Less than two weeks ago a schoolteacher, Samuel Paty, was beheaded north of Paris in Conflans Sainte Honorine, for showing cartoons of the Prophet to his class in a lesson on free speech.

Elsewhere a security guard was stabbed and wounded outside the French consulate in Saudi Arabia, while two other men were arrested – one while carrying a knife near a church in Sartrouville after his father reported he was about to carry out a Nice-style attack, and another who tried to board a train in Lyon carrying a long blade. The attacks come amid fury across the Islamic world at President Macron for defending satirical cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, and on the day that Sunni Muslims mark the Prophet’s birthday.

A representative of the French Council for the Muslim Faith condemned the attack, saying: “As a sign of mourning and solidarity with the victims and their loved ones, I call on all Muslims in France to cancel all the celebrations of the holiday of Mawlid [Prophet Muhammad’s birthday].”

Nice, a city on the French Riviera near the Italian border, has been traumatized several times by terrorist attacks. In 2016, in one of France’s deadliest attacks, a Tunisian man killed 86 people when he drove a truck through crowds who had gathered in the city to watch Bastille Day fireworks. Christian Estrosi, the city’s mayor, told Europe 1 radio on Friday that he felt angry after the attack and urged France to change its Constitution if needed to pass stringent antiterrorism laws. Just as the country entered a nationwide lockdown that will last at least a month, they should be willing to enact laws to stop terrorism, Mr. Estrosi said.

His Grace has issued the following statement:

[Begins] We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of the victims of today’s heinous terror attack in the basilica of Notre Dame, Nice, France. We shall pray for the repose of the souls of those who died and for the well-being and healing of those wounded both physically and emotionally. We are saddened that once again, after similar events in mosques, synagogues and churches in recent years, that another place of prayer and sanctuary should be invaded and so sacrilegiously violated, and praying worshippers attacked. Oremus. Kyrie eleison.

As Chair of Trustees for a multi-faith charity, and the city of Brighton & Hove’s Faith Council, and an Executive Committee member of the city’s Racial Harassment Forum, I am very aware of the tensions and difficulties experienced by Faith and ethnic communities in our contemporary society. Only two weeks ago I compered an “Upstanders” webinar to raise awareness and suggest practical ways in which those experiencing hatred for their Faith and ethnicity may be supported by witnesses to such incidents in public places by other members of our wider society.

The present populist polarisation of politics has heightened sensitivities to a regrettable degree. People of Faith and BAMER communities are experiencing increased levels of hate-motivated incidents and crime, and not always from external perpetrators. The often deliberate conflation of cultural and ethnic identity with race and religion by agents often ignorant of and insensitive to the sensibilities and nuances involved, threatens to undermine years of understanding and mutual appreciation that Faith and ethnic communities have built together, without compromising their particular defining characteristics and beliefs.

Contrary to what political agents and fundamentalist religionists suggest, it is possible for people of different or even diametrically opposed theological or philosophical beliefs and cultures to enjoy mutual respect and beneficial collaboration in a racially cosmopolitan environment and mixed cultural society. Evidence for this may be demonstrated in the hundreds of joint projects and partnerships around the world between different Faiths addressing the pressing needs of their local communities and wider society. In France, just as here in the UK, multi-faith projects provide services to the homeless, the vulnerable, the poor and the nationless.

It must not be permitted for the extreme perspectives of a literal minority to dictate the attitudes and approach we take as a society regarding difference and social cohesion. Noting the clear condemnation by the French Council of the Muslim Faith (French: Conseil français du culte musulman, CFCM), I hope that community leaders will be encouraged and enabled to work together with Civil authorities to address the voices of discontent within their communities; challenging not just the extremist narrative, but addressing with the Government the issues around social inclusion and integration that so often provoke and may appear to lend credibility to populist arguments.

Surely all people of Faith and goodwill should support the various national programmes in their countries tackling social cohesion and counter-extremism and international initiatives like “Breaking Down the Social Media Divides: A Guide for Individuals and Communities to Address Hate Online,” recently published by the European region of the World Association for Christian Communication. As well, ongoing dialogue between Faith groups in local communities building trust and paths of communication with each other is essential to prevent the further destructive ideological and populist polarisation of our societies. [End]


Metropolitan Jerome of Selsey in addition to being Chair of Trustees of Brighton & Hove Faith in Action and Chair of the City’s Faith Council, is Chair of the Brighton & Hove Combatting Faith Hate Partnership; an Executive Committee Member of the Brighton & Hove Racial Harassment Forum; a member of Sussex Police’s Multi Faith External Reference Group; a member of the Home Office’s counter-extremism strategy Building a Stronger Britain Together Network and the Prevent Network and city’s One Voice Partnership; a member of the city’s Upstanders Network; a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Faith and Society‘s Faith Action Network; a member of the Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education (SACRE); the Faith Representative for Brighton & Hove Community Works (an umbrella VCS organisation) and a member of the Equalities Access Workstream for the Brighton & Hove City Council’s COVID19 response and recovery planning. Additionally Metropolitan Jerome has been active in provisioning and assisting the homeless in Brighton & Hove for over a decade and supporting Brighton & Hove’s City of Sanctuary efforts for refugees and asylum seekers.

Tértio Kaléndas Novémbris. Luna

romanmartyrology

Tértio Kaléndas Novémbris. Luna . The Thirtieth Day of October. The Night of the Moon.

In Sardínia natális sancti Pontiáni, Papæ et Mártyris, qui, ab Alexándro Imperatóre, una cum Hippólyto Presbytero, in eam ínsulam deportátus, ibídem, mactátus fústibus, martyrium consummávit.  Ejus corpus a beáto Fabiáno Papa Romam delátum est, atque in cœmetério Callísti sepúltum.  Ipsíus tamen festum recólitur tertiodécimo Kaléndas Decémbris.
In Sardinia, the birthday of St. Pontianus, pope and martyr.  In the company of the priest Hippolytus, he was exiled by Emperor Alexander, and achieved martyrdom by being scourged.  His body was brought to Rome by blessed Pope Fabian and buried in the cemetery of Callistus.  His feast, however, is celebrated on the 19th of November.

Ægéæ, in Cilícia, pássio sanctórum Zenóbii Epíscopi, et Zenóbiæ soróris, sub Diocletiáno Imperatóre et Lysia Præside.
At Aegea in Cilicia, in the reign of Diocletian, under the governor Lysias, the martyrdom of Saints Zenobius, bishop, and his sister Zenobia.

Altíni, in Venetórum fínibus, sancti Theonésti, Epíscopi et Mártyris, qui ab Ariánis occísus est.
At Altino, in the neighbourhood of Venice, St. Theonestus, bishop and martyr, who was slain by the Arians.
In Africa natális sanctórum Mártyrum ducentórum vigínti.
In Africa, the birthday of two hundred and twenty holy martyrs.

Tingi, in Mauritánia, pássio sancti Marcélli Centuriónis, qui, sanctórum Cláudii ac Lupérci et Victórii Mártyrum pater, cápitis abscissióne martyrium complévit sub Agricoláo, agénte vices Præfécti prætório.
At Tangier in Morocco, St. Marcellus, a centurion, the father of Saints Claudius, Lupercus, and Victorius.  He achieved martyrdom by beheading under Agricola, deputy praetor for Praefectus.

Alexandríæ sanctórum trédecim Mártyrum, qui, cum sanctis Juliáno, Euno et Macário, passi sunt sub Décio Imperatóre.
At Alexandria, in the reign of Decius, thirteen holy martyrs who suffered with Saints Julian, Eunus, and Macarius.

Cárali, in Sardínia, sancti Saturníni Mártyris, qui, in persecutióne Diocletiáni, sub Bárbaro Præside, cápite truncátus est.
At Cagliari in Sardinia, St. Saturninus, martyr, who was beheaded under the governor Barbarus, during the persecution of Diocletian.

Apaméæ, in Phrygia, sancti Máximi Mártyris, sub eódem Diocletiáno
At Apamea in Phrygia, St. Maximus, martyr, under the same Diocletian.

Legióne, in Hispánia, sanctórum Mártyrum Cláudii, Lupérci et Victórii, filiórum sancti Marcélli Centuriónis; qui, in persecutióne Diocletiáni et Maximiáni, sub Diogeniáno Præside, jussi sunt decollári.
At Leon in Spain, the holy martyrs Claudius, Lupercus, and Victorius, the sons of St. Marcellus the centurion.  They were condemned to be beheaded by Diogenian, the governor, in the persecution of Diocletian and Maximian.

Lutétiæ Parisiórum sancti Lucáni Mártyris.
At Paris, St. Lucanus, martyr.

Alexandríæ sanctæ Eutrópiæ Mártyris, quæ, Mártyres vísitans, apprehénsa est, et, cum illis sævíssime cruciáta, réddidit spíritum.
At Alexandria, the martyr St. Eutropia, who was arrested while visiting the martyrs, and rendered up her soul after being cruelly tortured with them.

Antiochíæ sancti Serapiónis Epíscopi, eruditióne claríssimi.
At Antioch, St. Serapion, a bishop very celebrated for his learning.

Cápuæ sancti Germáni, Epíscopi et Confessóris, magnæ sanctitátis viri; cujus ánimam, in hora óbitus ejus, ab Angelis in cælum deférri sanctus Benedíctus aspéxit.
At Capua, St. Germanus, bishop and confessor, a man of great sanctity, whose soul, at the very hour of death, was seen by St. Benedict taken to heaven by angels.

Poténtiæ, in Lucánia, sancti Gerárdi Epíscopi.
At Potenza in Lucania, St. Gerard, bishop.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum.
R.  Deo grátias.
And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R.  Thanks be to God.

October XXX.
St. Marcellus the Centurion, Martyr
St. Germanus, Bishop of Capua, Confessor
St. Asterius, Bishop of Amasea in Pontus, Father of the Church

Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East – providing humanitarian relief in Iraq through St George’s Church and Clinic.

Open Doors – The world’s largest outreach to persecuted Christians in the most high-risk places.

Voice of the Persecuted – Informing the world of Christian persecution, one of the worst humanitarian crises on the planet, today.