Bridging the Gap: Understanding the Transgender Phenomenon and Upholding a Catholic Christian Response

Transgenderism (transgender or transgender identity), as a social phenomenon, reflects individuals' diverse experiences and identities in our society. Engaging in rational discourse about this topic involves acknowledging and respecting this diversity while considering the various implications of transgenderism on individuals and society. 

Sex and Gender

Sex refers to biological characteristics such as reproductive anatomy, hormones, and chromosomes that define a person as male, female, or intersex. Gender, on the other hand, refers to social and cultural roles, behaviors, expectations, and identities associated with being male or female. Gender is a social construct that varies across cultures and periods and is learned and enforced through socialization. While sex and gender are distinct concepts and should not be used interchangeably, intersex individuals and non-binary, genderqueer, or transgender people don't fit into traditional binary categories of male and female. To this point of consideration, everyone deserves the right to live, to be true to themselves, and to express themselves. Everyone equally has the responsibility to respect and support one another. 

For the sake of discussion, below is the basic argument (p – premise; c - conclusion) for the transgender rights movement: 

P1: Every person has the right to live authentically and express their true identity. 

P2: Gender identity is an essential aspect of a person's identity. 

P3: Gender identity may not align with biological sex. 

P4: Discrimination against individuals who do not conform to traditional gender norms is harmful and unjust. 

C: Therefore, transgender individuals have the right to express their true gender identity, free from discrimination or prejudice.

It's important to note that this argument is only one possible representation of the transgender movement's perspectives and beliefs and does not capture the full range of experiences, arguments, and views held by transgender individuals and their allies. But, the discussions about authenticity, gender identity, and discrimination underlying assumptions point to severe problems.

• The term "authenticity" and its relationship to identity: "Authenticity" is a complex and contested concept, and its relationship to identity is unclear. The argument assumes that individuals have a singular "true" identity that they are entitled to express authentically. However, this assumption is open to question, as individuals may have multiple, shifting, or contradictory identities influenced by social and cultural factors.

• The concept of "gender identity" and its relationship to biological sex: The argument assumes that gender identity is an essential aspect of a person's identity and may not align with biological sex. However, the relationship between gender identity and biological sex is complex and contested and may vary across cultures and historical periods. The argument also assumes that gender identity is a stable and coherent category, which may not always be accurate.

• The meaning and implications of "discrimination": The argument assumes that discrimination against individuals who do not conform to traditional gender norms is harmful and unjust. However, the meaning of "discrimination" is not always clear and may vary depending on the context and the perspectives involved. The argument also assumes that individuals who do not conform to traditional gender norms are a marginalized group subject to discrimination, which may not always be accurate.

 

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/trevin-wax/truthful-witness-and-the-transgender-debate/

Granted that these assumptions have been recognized depending on individual cases that call for understanding, compassion, and proper intervention, the discussion calls for clarity of definitions so that assumptions may be adequately addressed and, more importantly, the right policies will be placed in society. But here in lies the rub. The proponents of the transgender movements have expressed the inconsistencies of their reasoning in the context of spirited debates, namely:

1. Undefined terms: Some critics of the transgender movement argue that the words used to describe gender identity and expression are vague and undefined, making it difficult to have a clear and meaningful discussion about the issues at hand. For example, "non-binary" can refer to a wide range of gender identities and expressions and may be difficult to define or understand.

2. Conflicting definitions: There are also concerns that the definitions of gender identity and expression used by the transgender movement conflict with traditional biological and social meanings of gender. This can create confusion and uncertainty, mainly when biological sex is relevant, such as in sports or healthcare.

3. Circular reasoning: Some argue that the transgender movement uses circular reasoning, in which gender identity is defined based on the individual's feelings or perceptions. This can make it challenging to discuss the underlying causes or implications of gender dysphoria.

4. Ignoring biological differences: There are also concerns that the transgender movement ignores or downplays the physical differences between males and females, particularly in sports or healthcare. This situation can create situations where individuals who identify as transgender are allowed to participate in activities or receive treatments that may not be appropriate or safe.

5. Disregarding social norms: Critics of the transgender movement argue that it disregards social standards and expectations related to gender, leading to confusion and tension in social situations. For example, allowing individuals who identify as transgender to use bathrooms or locker rooms traditionally reserved for the opposite sex can create discomfort and even pose a safety risk.

Areas of Challenges

While the transgender movement has undoubtedly helped raise awareness and support for individuals who identify as transgender or gender non-conforming, there are also potential dangers associated with fully adopting this movement without carefully considering the complexities involved. Some of these risks could include:

1. Safety concerns: Fully adopting the transgender movement without considering the potential safety risks could create situations where individuals feel uncomfortable or even unsafe. For example, if a male who identifies as transgender is allowed to enter female-only spaces like bathrooms or locker rooms, it could make females feel vulnerable and uncomfortable.

2. Ethical dilemmas: Adopting the transgender movement could also raise ethical dilemmas in gender reassignment surgeries or hormonal treatments. Some individuals may regret their decision to transition later in life, and the long-term impact of hormonal treatments or surgery is not fully understood.

3. Conflict with traditional values: Adopting the transgender movement may also conflict with traditional values and beliefs, leading to social or cultural tensions. For example, some religious groups may view the transgender movement as going against their ideas about gender and sexuality.

4. Impact on children: Fully adopting the transgender movement could significantly impact children, who may be more susceptible to social pressures and influences. Some children may be encouraged to transition, even if they may not fully understand the implications of such a decision or may regret it later in life.

5. Legal challenges: Fully adopting the transgender movement could also create legal challenges, particularly in areas such as employment or education. There may be conflicts over anti-discrimination laws or the right to free speech and expression.

Disturbing Cases

In the past few weeks, there have been a lot of disturbing incidents that represent some of the problems connected with adopting transgender rights without careful study of the matter:

1. TransMale Athlete Dominating Female Powerlifting Category: The participation of a TransMale athlete in the female powerlifting category has generated much debate. According to Catholic teachings, each individual is created in the image and likeness of God and should be treated with respect and dignity. In this situation, ensuring fairness for all competitors while upholding the dignity and well-being of the TransMale athlete, considering their unique experiences and challenges, is essential.

2. TransMale Athlete Causing Partial Paralysis to a Female Athlete in a Female Category: The tragic incident of a TransMale athlete causing partial paralysis to a female athlete highlights the need to address safety concerns in sports. Catholic social teachings emphasize valuing human life and protecting the common good. Therefore, it is necessary for sports authorities to carefully examine their policies and consider the physical differences between athletes to ensure everyone's safety and well-being.

3. High School Female Showering in a Women's Locker Room Seen by an Adult Male Who Identified Himself as a Female: The incident involving a high school female seen by an adult male who identified as a female in a women's locker room raises concerns about privacy, safety, and creating spaces that respect the dignity of all individuals. Catholic teaching emphasizes the importance of modesty and the sacredness of the human body. As such, schools and other public spaces must find ways to uphold these values while providing safe, respectful environments for people of all gender identities.

4. 60-Year-Old Male Identifying as a 6-Year-Old Girl Parading in a Dress: This event involving a 60-year-old individual identifying as a 6-year-old girl highlights the complex nature of self-identification and the need for compassion and understanding. From a Catholic perspective, it is essential to approach this individual with love and respect while recognizing the sacredness of human life at all stages.

5. Dog Owners Wanting to Transition Their Dog from Male to Female: The case of dog owners desiring to transition their pets from Male to female brings attention to the relationship between humans and animals within the context of Catholic teachings. As stewards of God's creation, we are responsible for caring for animals with kindness and respect. However, making decisions about an animal's gender may not align with this stewardship, and further reflection is needed on this ethical issue. Incidentally, what is mind-boggling about this incident is how the veterinarian and clinic staff carefully pointed to the owners that a thorough investigation of the dog's background must be done before the operation. But this was not the case for some children who were immediately sent to the operating room for a gender reassignment procedure without their parent's consent. And after a few years, some of those children regret that they had this irreversible operation.

6. Teachers Seeking Validation from 7-Year-Old Students Acknowledging Their Non-Binary Identity: As society's understanding of gender identity expands, some educators seek validation from young students regarding their non-binary identities. Catholic education emphasizes the importance of forming the whole person, rooted in faith and love. In addressing gender identity, it is vital to create a supportive environment for all students and to guide them with age-appropriate discussions rooted in Catholic teachings on human dignity and love.

Safety of all at all times

Being authentic and true to one's identity does not give anyone the right to trample the rights of other individuals for security and safety. It's important to recognize and respect the rights and needs of all individuals in society and to strive for policies and procedures that balance the rights and needs of all individuals involved.

While individuals who identify as transgender have the right to express their true gender identity, this must be balanced with the safety and well-being of all individuals in society. Policies and procedures must be developed with a commitment to inclusivity, fairness, and respect for all individuals and should consider the potential implications for safety and security.

It's essential to approach any discussion of gender identity and expression with empathy, open-mindedness, and a commitment to respectful dialogue. While there may be disagreements or conflicts over policies and procedures, striving for a society that is inclusive and accepting of all individuals is essential. Instead of ending the movement's goal towards recognition and respect for diversity and complexity of gender identity and expression, it should lead towards rational dialogue, eradication of injustice to all, and the evolution of a society that recognizes every human being as a member of our family. 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we ask for your guidance as we engage in meaningful dialogue with all our brothers and sisters. Grant us the wisdom to listen with open hearts and uphold Christian values and morality. Teach us to respect diverse perspectives while staying true to our faith. Bless our conversations with love, compassion, and understanding, and inspire us to work together to create a more just and harmonious world that honors Your divine creation. In Jesus' Name, we pray, Amen.

Unmasking Narcissistic Leaders: A Journey to Understanding, Healing, and Transformation

Community leaders are often seen as role models and spiritual guides in faith and spirituality. Yet, just like anyone else, they can struggle with personality traits that hinder their ability to lead effectively. One such trait is narcissism. In this article, we'll look closely at narcissistic leaders, exploring their behavior, what causes it, their impact on others, and how we can help them transform for the better. 

https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2021/11/group-narcissism/620632/

What Are Narcissistic Leaders?

When we talk about narcissistic leaders, we're referring to people who showcase behaviors commonly linked to Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). NPD is a condition where a person has an inflated sense of self-importance, constantly craves admiration, and lacks empathy for others. Notably, having some narcissistic traits doesn't necessarily mean one has a personality disorder. However, too much narcissism can harm a leader’s work and team / community.

 

Spotting Narcissistic Traits

Narcissistic leaders tend to show some or all of the following behaviors: 

1. A larger-than-life attitude: They believe they're more important or gifted than others.

2. Constantly seeking praise: They always want validation and compliments from their congregation or peers.

3. Struggling to empathize: They have trouble understanding or relating to other people's feelings and needs.

4. Manipulating others: They use people to gain or boost their power.

5. Acting entitled: They think they deserve special treatment or privileges.

6. Displaying arrogance: They may be dismissive or condescending towards others. 

Why Do Some Leaders Become Narcissistic? 

Several factors can contribute to narcissism in leaders, such as: 

1. Beliefs: Some principles may promote the idea that leaders are superior or have extraordinary authority, which can lead to grandiosity and entitlement.

2. Training: Inadequate formation during training can result in too much focus on the self and insufficient humility.

3. Loneliness: Leaders who work in isolation, makes them more self-centered and egotistical.

4. Status and power: The respect and authority given to leaders can sometimes fuel feelings of self-importance.

 

How Narcissistic Leaders Affect Others

Narcissistic leaders can have a profound negative impact on their workmates and communities. Some of these effects include:

1. Confusion: By making themselves the center of attention, narcissistic leaders can distract from their organization's core teachings and values.

2. Exploitation: members might be manipulated or used for the leader's benefit or self-promotion.

3. Eroding trust: Narcissistic actions can cause people to lose confidence and respect for the leaders and the organization.

4. Emotional turmoil: members may feel ignored or belittled because the leader lacks empathy and understanding.

 

Ways to Help Narcissistic Leaders

Here are some steps we can take to help narcissistic leaders: 

1. Spot issues early: Trainers should watch for narcissistic traits and provide guidance and support as needed.

2. Encourage ongoing learning: Leaders should continue their education and personal development, focusing on self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

3. Offer counseling and therapy: Professional help can assist leaders in managing and reducing narcissistic behaviors.

4. Promote accountability and openness: Ensure leaders are held responsible for their actions and foster a culture of humility and service within organizations.

5. Support self-care and spiritual growth: Help leaders balance work and personal life and encourage them to nurture their connection. 

 

 

Narcissistic leaders can cause considerable harm to their organizations and undermine the very essence of their role. By recognizing their characteristics, understanding the factors that contribute to narcissism, and acknowledging their impact on others, we can work towards addressing this issue effectively. Supporting leaders in developing humility, empathy, and genuine leadership will benefit their personal growth and strengthen the foundations of their organizations. Together, they can help bring about positive change and foster a more compassionate and authentic environment for all.

 

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father,

We humbly ask for Your guidance and grace for our beloved leaders, who struggles with narcissism. Soften their heart, filling them with love and humility. Grant them wisdom to serve others and strengthen their journey. Provide coaches and friends to support their transformation, and bless their work so that it may shine with Your truth and love.

Amen.

Challenging Myths and Securing the Solid Foundations of Good Vocations

Pursuing a vocation to the religious and priestly life is a journey filled with complexities and controversies. The formation process is riddled with various opinions, beliefs, and practices that can either promote or hinder the development of potential priests. It is not uncommon to hear arguments surrounding the importance of good family backgrounds, the challenges of dysfunctional upbringings, the proper balance of intellectual and spiritual formation, and the sensitive subject of sexual integration. Furthermore, the congregation's role in the formation process is often debated. However, amid these controversies, a shared goal remains: to promote good vocations to the religious and priestly life.

Here are six statements about having a good vocation and their pros and cons. 

1. Good vocations start with good family background and upbringing.

Pros: 

- Good family background and upbringing provide a stable and nurturing place that fosters the development of the virtues and values necessary for a vocation to the priesthood. 

- Children who grow up in a loving, supportive, and faith-filled family environment are more likely to develop a strong sense of purpose, moral character, and a desire to serve God and others.

Cons:

- It is only sometimes the case that those from good family backgrounds will necessarily have a vocation to the priesthood.

- Some individuals from complex family backgrounds may develop a deeper appreciation for the Church's teachings and sacraments, which can lead to a more vital vocation.

2. Experience tells us that those who come from dysfunctional or irreligious families are hard to form. You spend more time counseling and healing their woundedness than giving them a solid foundation.

Pros:

- Experience suggests that individuals from dysfunctional or irreligious families may have deeper emotional wounds that require attention before they can effectively discern and respond to a call to the priesthood.

- Formators can use counseling and healing techniques to help these individuals address their emotional wounds and find a solid foundation for their spiritual journey.

Cons:

- It is possible for individuals from complex family backgrounds to respond positively to formation if they have the necessary support and guidance from formators.

- Focusing too much on the wounds of these individuals may create a negative self-image and limit their potential.

3. Good formation produces good priests who use their minds (brains) and hearts.

Pros:

- Good formation is essential for the development of the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of the future priest.

- A well-formed priest can use his intellect and heart to serve his congregation effectively.

Cons:

- Focusing solely on intellectual and spiritual formation may lead to an unbalanced priest who needs more practical skills and emotional intelligence.

- Some individuals may have limited intellectual capacity but possess a deep love for God and neighbor, making them influential priests despite their intellectual limitations.

4. Future priests must be assisted in their human development.

Pros:

- Human development is an essential aspect of formation that addresses the future priest's emotional, social, and psychological well-being.

- Developing future priests' human dimensions is essential to forming well-rounded individuals.

Cons:

- Focusing too much on human development may lead to overemphasizing self-improvement and self-actualization at the expense of the priest's calling to serve others.

- Without a proper balance of spiritual and human development, the future priest may lack the necessary qualities to minister to the faithful effectively.

5. Future priests must be sexually integrated at a certain point.

Pros:

- Sexual integration is essential to human development for the future priest's emotional and psychological well-being.

- Proper sexual integration can help the future priest develop a healthy, well-balanced approach to human sexuality.

Cons:

- Sexual integration must be approached cautiously and sensitively, as it can be challenging and potentially tricky.

- Overemphasis on sexual integration may lead to an unhealthy focus on sexual issues and potentially inappropriate behaviors.

6. Good people (congregations) who treat young vocations with delicate help produce good shepherd-priests.

Pros:

- The congregation's supportive and nurturing environment can help young vocations develop a strong sense of purpose, identity, and calling.

- Good treatment can also help future priests understand the needs and concerns of their congregations and serve them more effectively.

Cons:

- Overreliance on the congregation's support may limit the future priest's ability to develop self-confidence and independence to fulfill their role effectively.

- A congregation's negative attitudes or behaviors towards young vocations can harm the formation process and potentially discourage individuals from pursuing a vocation to the priesthood.

Suggestions: 

1. While a good family background can help create a nurturing environment for a potential vocation, there should be more than one basis to be considered for someone who has a calling to the religious or priestly life. Formators should take a holistic approach to assessing candidates, including their spiritual disposition, character, and sense of purpose.

2. Individuals from complex family backgrounds should not be automatically excluded from the formation process. Instead, formators should provide the necessary support and guidance to address any emotional or psychological wounds while still focusing on building a solid foundation for the spiritual journey.

3. A well-rounded formation process should include intellectual, spiritual, and practical dimensions. Formators should encourage future priests to use their intellect and heart to serve their congregation effectively.

4. Human development is essential to formation, but it should not overshadow the spiritual dimension. Formators should balance helping future priests develop emotionally, socially, and psychologically while prioritizing their spiritual formation.

5. Sexual integration is essential to human development but should be approached with sensitivity and caution. Formators should ensure that candidates are supported and guided through the process while maintaining appropriate boundaries and avoiding an unhealthy focus on sexual issues.

6. The congregation's supportive and nurturing environment can help young vocations develop a strong sense of purpose, identity, and calling. Formators should encourage congregations to support and guide young vocations while emphasizing the importance of self-confidence and independence in effectively fulfilling their role.

Ultimately, every vocation to the religious and priestly life is a mystery, imbued with God's grace and will. While certain factors may contribute to a person's decision to pursue this path, such as a strong family background or a sense of purpose, the call itself is beyond human understanding. Therefore, individuals and communities must engage in a discernment process that is prayerful, attentive, and honest. Discernment allows individuals to understand and embrace the mystery of their vocation, while communities can play a vital role in supporting, nurturing, and challenging those who are discerning their call. As challenging as the path to the religious and priestly life may be, it is ultimately a meaningful and fulfilling choice that can lead to a lifetime of service to God and others.

Saint Hannibal Mary Di Francia, Apostle of the Prayer for Vocations, pray for us!

Send, O Lord, Holy Apostles into Your Church!

When a Parent's Love is All About Them: Coping with Narcissistic Parenting

Narcissistic parents have an excessive and self-centered focus on themselves, often at the expense of their children. They may have a grandiose sense of self-importance and believe they are superior to others. They may also have difficulty empathizing with others and require constant admiration and attention.

Some signs of a narcissistic parent include:They tend to prioritize their own needs over their children's needs.

1. They may have unrealistic expectations of their children and expect them to be perfect.
2. They may be controlling and demanding of their children and punish them harshly for perceived slights or mistakes.
3. They may have difficulty acknowledging their mistakes or flaws and blame their children for any problems in the relationship.
4. They may use their children to boost their self-esteem and may be overly critical or dismissive of their children's achievements.

The effects of having a narcissistic parent can be profound and long-lasting. Children of narcissistic parents may experience the following:

1. Low self-esteem and self-worth due to the constant criticism and lack of validation they receive from their parent.
2. Difficulty establishing healthy relationships with others due to a lack of trust and feelings of unworthiness.
3. A tendency to be overly self-critical and perfectionistic in an attempt to please their parent.
4. Anxiety and depression due to the constant stress and pressure of living with a narcissistic parent.
5. A sense of confusion and identity issues as they struggle to differentiate themselves from their parent's expectations and desires.

https://dfwchild.com/why-our-children-need-to-feel-sadness-in-order-to-experience-joy/

Here's a questionnaire that parents can use to assess the level of their narcissistic tendencies:

1. When speaking with your children, do you tend to talk mainly about yourself and your accomplishments?
2. Do you prioritize your own needs over those of your children?
3. Do you have unrealistic expectations of your children or expect them to be perfect?
4. Do you punish your children harshly or become angry when they make mistakes?
5. Do you struggle to admit your own mistakes or apologize to your children?
6. Do you take credit for your children's achievements or use them to boost your ego?
7. Do you dismiss or minimize your children's feelings or opinions?
8. Do you become upset or angry when you don't receive constant attention or admiration from your children?
9. Do you struggle to empathize with your children's perspectives or experiences?
10. Have you put your own interests above the needs of your family in the past?

For each question, rate your response on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being "never" and 5 being "always."

After answering the questions, add up the total score. If the score is high (30+), it may be a sign that you exhibit traits of narcissism. However, it's essential to remember that this questionnaire is not a substitute for a professional diagnosis or evaluation. If you are concerned about your behavior as a parent, seeking the advice of a qualified mental health professional is recommended.

Why is it difficult to break free from narcissistic parents?

Growing up with a narcissistic parent can be really tough. Narcissistic parents can be really controlling and emotionally abusive, making it hard for their kids to establish their identities and become independent.

So why is it so hard for some people to escape their narcissistic parents? Well, there are a few reasons. 

First, kids of narcissistic parents may feel like they owe something to their parents. Their parent may have made them feel like their happiness and well-being is dependent on the parent's happiness, which can make it hard to break away.

Another reason is that narcissistic parents often make their children feel worthless or like they can't make decisions on their own. This can make it hard for kids to feel confident in their abilities and feel like they need to stay dependent on their parents.

Finally, breaking the cycle of abuse can be challenging. Kids of narcissistic parents may have grown up in an environment where emotional abuse is routine, so they might not even realize what their parent is doing is wrong. 

Hope for Kids of Narcissistic Parents 

Growing up with a narcissistic parent can seriously mess you up. You might have low self-esteem, have trouble forming healthy relationships, be really hard on yourself, feel anxious or depressed, and struggle with your identity. But here's the good news: there are things you can do to help yourself if you've had a narcissistic parent. 

✅Going to therapy is a great start.  

✅You can also set boundaries with your parent, 

✅ focus on caring for yourself,  

✅ connect with people who understand what you're going through, and  

✅practice being kind to yourself. 

Remember, you deserve to be happy and loved, no matter what kind of parent you have.🫶

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, we pray for parents who struggle with narcissism. May they find the strength and courage to overcome their self-centered tendencies and learn to love their children selflessly. We also pray for the children of narcissistic parents, who often endure emotional abuse and trauma. May they find healing, comfort, and the ability to forgive their parents. We pray that all families may be filled with love, compassion, and understanding. May your grace and mercy be with us all. Amen.

The Legionaries and Synodality

Viktor A.

The Legio Mariae (2014 edition) offers the fundamental dispositions of the Legion in their commitment to support the Parish's journey toward being a Synodal Church.

1. Humility: The Handbook stresses the importance of humility in the Legionary's approach to their work, stating, "The spirit of the Legion of Mary is that of Mary herself. Especially does the Legion aspire after her profound humility, perfect obedience, angelical sweetness, continual prayer, and universal mortification" (Chapter 3, paragraph 1). A humble disposition makes a perfect instrument in the hands of God. It helps one to focus on the Church’s mission rather than one’s agenda.

2. Listening: The Handbook emphasizes the importance of listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit, stating that "It is significant that the first corporate act of the Legion of Mary was to address itself to the Holy Spirit by his Invocation and Prayer, then proceeding by the rosary to Mary and her Son" (Chapter 7, paragraph 1) and "Shall not such an organization be filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4) and shall there not be "many wonders and signs." (Acts 2:43)" (Chapter 5, paragraph 4). The "legionary distrusts the promptings of her/his inclinations and in all things listens intently for the whisperings of grace" (Chapter 6, paragraph h). It also encourages Legionaries to be attentive to the needs of others and to "aim initially at listening instead of talking. Having listened patiently and respectfully; they will have won the right to be heard." (Chapter 37, paragraph 5).

3. Collaboration: The Handbook stresses the importance of collaboration between the laity and the clergy, stating that "Collaboration in every apostolic and missionary undertaking sponsored by the parish and so help to bring every soul in some manner into the protective network of the Church, thus securing the safety alike of the individual and the community." (Chapter 37, paragraph g). 

4. Participation: The Handbook emphasizes the importance of active participation in the life of the Church, stating that "The active work of the Legionary is a participation in the official apostolate of the Church. Praetorian membership aims at immersing him still deeper in the corporate life of the Church. It must prescribe Mass and Holy Communion because these are the central ceremonies of the Church, renewing daily the paramount Christian act. Next in the Liturgy comes the Office, the corporate utterance of the Church, in which Christ prays. In any Office built upon the Psalms, we use the prayers inspired by the Holy Spirit and thus get close to that corporate voice the Father must hear. That is why an Office, not meditation, is a condition of praetorian membership" (Chapter 16, paragraphs 2-3). The emphasis on prayer shouldn’t be surprising because this is the primary commitment of a legionary, that is, to be disciples of Jesus who are confirmed and strengthened by prayer.

5. Respect for Tradition: The Handbook stresses the importance of fidelity to the teachings and practices of the Church, stating that "The association establishes a tradition, begets a loyalty, enjoys respect and obedience, and powerfully inspires its members." (Chapter 11, no. 4, paragraph 3). 

6. Prayer: The Handbook emphasizes the importance of prayer in the life of the Legionary, stating that the primary degree, "named the auxiliaries, is one wing of the Legion's praying army. Its service consists of the daily recitation of the prayers in the Tessera: the invocation and prayer of the Holy Spirit; five decades of the rosary and the invocations which follow them; the Catena; and the prayers described as "concluding prayers." These may be divided throughout the day, as convenient." (Chapter 16, number 2). The higher degree, namely, the adjutorians: "This is the other wing of the praying Legion. It comprises those who will (a) recite daily all the prayers of the Tessera and, in addition, (b) agree to attend Mass and receive Holy Communion daily and to recite daily an Office approved by the Church. (Chapter 16, number 2).

Fostering a Synodality Church will significantly move forward when all its members recognize the importance of humility, listening, collaboration, participation, respect for tradition, and prayer.

Maintain a Healthy Use of Social Media

Viktor A.

Is Social Media Bad for You?

We need to maintain a healthy use of social media. There are various strategies and habits that promote balance and can protect our mental well-being. Here are some suggestions:

1. Set time limits: Limit the time spent on social media platforms daily to prevent excessive use. You can use built-in device features or third-party apps to track and manage your screen time.

2. Prioritize real-life connections: Foster and maintain in-person relationships with friends and family to ensure a balanced social life, which is crucial for mental health.

3. Curate your feed: Follow accounts and pages that promote positivity, personal growth, and valuable information. Unfollow or mute accounts that may negatively impact your mood or self-esteem.

4. Establish boundaries: Set clear rules for social media use, such as no devices during meals or bedtime, to prevent it from interfering with essential daily activities and routines.

5. Be mindful of your emotions: Consider how social media affects your feelings and mood. If you notice envy, anxiety, or low self-esteem, consider taking a break or reassessing your social media habits.

6. Engage meaningfully: Rather than mindlessly scrolling, focus on engaging with content that genuinely interests you or helps you grow personally or professionally.

7. Take breaks: Regularly disconnect from social media for short periods during the day or for longer digital detoxes. Taking breaks can help you maintain perspective and focus on other aspects of your life.

8. Don't compare yourself: Social media often portrays an idealized version of people's lives. Not everything we see online is always an accurate reflection of reality, and avoid comparing yourself to others.

9. Protect your privacy: Be cautious about the information you share online, and regularly review your privacy settings to ensure your personal information is protected.

10. Seek support if needed: If social media use affects your mental health, consider talking to a mental health professional or a trusted friend for advice and support.

Tips for Celebrating the Easter Season more Intensely

Viktor A.

1. Attend Mass regularly: Easter is a time of celebration, and attending Mass is a great way to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Commit to attending Mass every Sunday during the Easter season.

2. Reflect on the Resurrection: Reflect on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and what it means for your life. Read the Gospel accounts of the Resurrection and meditate on them.

3. Practice Forgiveness: Easter is a time of forgiveness, and as Christians, we are called to forgive others as we have been forgiven. Take time to forgive those who wronged you and seek forgiveness from those you have wronged.

4. Give to others: One way to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is by giving to others. Give your time, talents, and resources to those in need during Easter.

5. Pray: Prayer is a powerful tool to help you grow closer to God. Make time for prayer during Easter and ask God to guide you daily.

6. Fast: Fasting is a way to show our commitment to God and remember Jesus Christ's sacrifice. Consider fasting during the Easter season to grow closer to God.

7. Read Scripture: Reading Scripture can help us better understand God's plan for our lives. Take time to read the Bible during Easter and reflect on its teachings. Join a Bible Study Group.

8. Attend Confession: Confession is a sacrament that allows us to confess our sins and receive absolution. Consider attending Confession during the Easter season to renew your relationship with God.

9. Practice Charity: Charity is a way to show love for our neighbors and follow Jesus Christ's example. Volunteer at a local charity or donate to a cause during Easter.

10. Share the Good News: Easter is a time to celebrate the Good News of the Resurrection. Please share this message with others and invite them to experience the joy of Easter with you.