Ancient Catholism

25/07/2025

Why do we go for confession?

25/07/2025

*Why Altar Servers Deserve More Than Just a Nod After Mass*

Let’s address one of the most overlooked ministries in the Church: the Altar Servers.

Before I became a priest, I didn’t give much thought to altar servers. In fact, I saw them as just children in oversized cassocks, trailing incense and getting in the way. One is late, one is still tying his cincture during the Kyrie, another forgets to bring the missal to the altar, and one brave soul always drops the bell mid-consecration like it’s part of the liturgy.

But then ordination happened—and like Saul on the road to Damascus, my eyes were opened.

My dear people of God, our altar servers are the silent strength behind every Mass.

After celebrating Mass abroad, where the priest does everything from the crucifix to the chalice without assistance, I began to miss our lively, sometimes chaotic but genuinely dedicated Nigerian altar servers.

Now back home, I’ve seen another side of the story. These young boys and girls come early to church, rehearse tirelessly, and stand throughout Mass—rain or shine, hunger or heat—just to make sure the sanctuary runs smoothly.

And still, at the end of Mass, we hear:
“Thank you to the chairman of the harvest, the MC, our distinguished guests…”
And the altar servers? Not even a “God bless you.”

Let me say this clearly: *DEAR ALTAR SERVERS, WE SEE YOU. WE HONOUR YOU. AND WE THANK YOU.*

Some of you trek long distances to make it to morning Mass before 6:00 AM. Some wear torn cassocks and serve with dignity. Some go home hungry after multiple liturgies. Yet, you continue to serve—no complaints, no payment, just love for God.

If you’ve ever admired how orderly the Mass flows, thank an altar server.
If you’ve ever seen the priest lift the chalice with reverence, thank the one who passed it at the right time.
If you’ve ever been moved by the incense rising during solemn liturgy, thank the server whose arm is tired but still swinging with grace.
. Fr. Michael Obioma Eze,

14/07/2025

Catholics tend to dominate everywhere they go, what is the reason.

10/07/2025

list of all the Catholic popes from past to present:

Early Popes (1st-5th century)

- 1. St. Peter (33-67 AD)
- 2. St. Linus (67-76 AD)
- 3. St. Anacletus (Cletus) (76-88 AD)
- 4. St. Clement I (88-97 AD)
- 5. St. Evaristus (97-105 AD)

Popes of the Middle Ages (5th-15th century)

- 36. Liberius (352-366 AD)
- 37. St. Damasus I (366-384 AD)
- 45. St. Leo I (the Great) (440-461 AD)
- 91. St. Zachary (741-752 AD)
- 92. Stephen II (III) (752-757 AD)
- 93. St. Paul I (757-767 AD)
- 97. St. Leo III (795-816 AD)

Modern Popes (16th-20th century)

- 217. Julius II (1503-1513)
- 218. Leo X (1513-1521)
- 220. Clement VII (1523-1534)
- 232. Clement VIII (1592-1605)
- 257. Leo XIII (1878-1903)
- 258. St. Pius X (1903-1914)
- 259. Benedict XV (1914-1922)
- 260. Pius XI (1922-1939)
- 261. Pius XII (1939-1958)
- 262. Blessed John XXIII (1958-1963)
- 263. Paul VI (1963-1978)

Recent Popes (late 20th century-present)

- 264. John Paul I (1978)
- 265. John Paul II (1978-2005)
- 266. Benedict XVI (2005-2013)
- 267. Francis (2013-present)

There are 266 officially recognized popes in the Catholic Church's history, according to the Annuario Pontificio. Some lists may vary due to disputed papacies or antipopes.

10/07/2025

Who knows the first Catholic pop

The first Catholic Pope is traditionally considered to be Saint Peter, one of Jesus' twelve apostles. According to Catholic tradition, Peter was appointed by Jesus as the leader of the early Christian community in Rome, and he is often referred to as the first Bishop of Rome.

The Catholic Church considers Peter to be the first Pope because of Jesus' words to him in the Gospel of Matthew (16:18-19), where Jesus says, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church...I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven."

Peter is said to have served as Bishop of Rome until his martyrdom in the city during the reign of Emperor Nero in the 1st century AD. His successors, the bishops of Rome, would go on to become the Popes of the Catholic Church.

It's worth noting that the historical development of the papacy is complex, and the early centuries of Christianity saw significant growth and evolution in the role of the bishop of Rome. Nonetheless, Saint Peter remains a foundational figure in Catholic tradition and is revered as a saint by the Church.

10/07/2025

Our morning prayer

10/07/2025

In the sweltering heat of Jerusalem, a young carpenter's son named Jesus gathered his closest friends and followers, the apostles, to spread a message of love, forgiveness, and redemption. Among them was Simon Peter, a humble fisherman who would later become a pivotal figure in the history of the Catholic Church.

After Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, the apostles dispersed to share the Good News with the world. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, became a fearless leader, guiding the early Christian community in Jerusalem and eventually traveling to Rome.

As the Church grew, it faced intense persecution under Roman emperors like Nero and Domitian. Christians were forced to worship in secret, often gathering in catacombs and hidden churches. Despite the danger, the faith spread rapidly, fueled by the witness of martyrs and the tireless work of missionaries.

One pivotal moment came in 325 AD when Emperor Constantine, who had converted to Christianity, convened the Council of Nicaea. Bishops from across the empire gathered to define the nature of Christ and establish a unified doctrine. The Nicene Creed, born from this council, remains a cornerstone of Catholic faith to this day.

As the centuries passed, the Catholic Church continued to evolve. The early Church Fathers – scholars like Augustine, Jerome, and Ambrose – penned influential works that shaped Catholic theology and practice. Monasteries became centers of learning and spirituality, preserving ancient knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of God.

The Middle Ages saw the rise of powerful popes, magnificent cathedrals, and a vibrant faith that permeated every aspect of life. Through it all, the Catholic Church remained a beacon of hope, guiding countless souls on their journey toward God.

From humble beginnings in a dusty Palestinian town to its spread across the known world, the story of the Catholic Church is one of faith, perseverance, and the transformative power of Christ's message.

10/07/2025

Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail our lifes, our sweetness and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve: to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!

10/07/2025

Say something about the Catholic Church.

18/01/2024

06/11/2023

God will give you come and see testimony

03/09/2022

this new month is a month of blessing,long life and favour, God of Ebenezer our God our helper.