religion
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Apostolic Succession Explained in Plain Language
One of the most misunderstood aspects of Catholic Church structure is the concept of apostolic succession. Simply put, apostolic succession is the unbroken line of spiritual authority handed down from the apostles, who were personally chosen by Jesus Christ, to the bishops and priests of the Church today. Understanding this concept is essential to grasping why the Catholic Church claims to preserve authentic teaching, sacramental authority, and continuity with Christ Himself.
By Sound and Spiritabout a month ago in Journal
How the Bible Was Formed and Why the Catholic Church Matters in That Process
The Bible is central to Christian life, but many people are unaware that the Catholic Church played an essential role in its formation. The Catholic Church did not simply adopt a pre-existing collection of books; it preserved, discerned, and recognized the canon of Scripture through careful guidance, prayer, and tradition. Understanding this process helps Catholics and non-Catholics alike appreciate the authority, consistency, and reliability of the Bible as we have it today.
By Sound and Spiritabout a month ago in Journal
What the Catholic Church Means by “Sacrament” and Why They Matter
The Catholic Church teaches that God is not distant or invisible in our daily lives but comes to us in real, tangible ways. One of the primary ways He does this is through the sacraments. While some people may think of sacraments as symbolic rituals or merely traditional ceremonies, the Catholic understanding goes much deeper. Sacraments are outward signs instituted by Christ that confer grace, and they are central to Catholic faith, worship, and spiritual life.
By Sound and Spiritabout a month ago in Journal
Why Catholics Believe Faith and Works Go Together
Why Catholics Believe Faith and Works Go Together A question often asked by non-Catholics is how faith and works relate in the Catholic understanding of salvation. Some believe that Catholics rely on “good works” to earn salvation, while others think faith alone is sufficient. The truth in Catholic teaching is that faith and works are inseparably connected, and both are essential for a living, authentic Christian life. Understanding this balance begins with Scripture, is explained through Church teaching, and is supported by centuries of theological reflection.
By Sound and Spiritabout a month ago in Journal
Why Catholics Confess Sins to a Priest Instead of Directly to God
One of the most common questions about the Catholic faith is why Catholics confess their sins to a priest instead of speaking directly to God. At first glance, this practice may seem unusual to those unfamiliar with Church teaching. After all, isn’t God all-knowing and capable of hearing our hearts directly? The answer lies in the teachings of Christ, the mission of the apostles, and the Church’s understanding of forgiveness, accountability, and healing.
By Sound and Spiritabout a month ago in Journal
Why Catholics Believe the Eucharist Is the Real Presence of Christ
One of the most distinctive and misunderstood beliefs of the Catholic Church is the teaching that the Eucharist is truly the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ. For Catholics, the Eucharist is not merely a symbol, a reminder, or a ritual meal. It is the real presence of Christ, given to the Church exactly as He promised. This belief is central to Catholic faith and worship and has been held consistently since the earliest days of Christianity.
By Sound and Spiritabout a month ago in Journal
A Prayer for Guidance, Peace, and Strength
Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble and open hearts, fully aware of our need for Your mercy and grace. In a world filled with uncertainty, distraction, and unrest, we seek refuge in You, our Creator and Sustainer. You are our shelter in times of trouble, our light in moments of darkness, and the steady foundation upon which we build our lives. We ask You to quiet our anxious thoughts, to bring clarity to our minds, and to fill our hearts with the peace that only You can give. Help us to trust in Your providence, even when the path ahead is unclear.
By Sound and Spiritabout a month ago in Journal
Digital Landlords: Algorithmic Control in Bangladesh Ride-Sharing
By Tuhin Sarwar । Published: 13 January । 2024 । DHAKA, BANGLADESH At 4:30 AM, when most of Dhaka still sleeps, Mohammad Rahman starts his daily negotiation with an algorithm. He opens three ride-hailing apps simultaneously – Uber, Pathao, and local newcomer Shohoz watching the digital maps light up. His motorcycle, purchased with a high-interest loan, waits as he does. The algorithm will decide his day's fate.
By Tuhin Sarwarabout a month ago in Journal
The Gate We All Walk Through
I didn’t realize I’d disappeared until I saw my reflection and didn’t recognize myself. It wasn’t sudden. It was slow—a word silenced here, an opinion softened there, a laugh forced to match the room. I traded pieces of myself for acceptance, like coins dropped into a vending machine that never gave back what I paid for.
By KAMRAN AHMAD2 months ago in Journal
The Keeper of Secrets
I didn’t go in for a book. I went in to escape the rain. It was a gray Tuesday in March, the kind of day that presses down on your chest like a wet blanket. I’d just received news I wasn’t ready for—a job lost, a relationship frayed, the quiet unraveling of plans I’d spent years building. I walked without direction, shoulders hunched, until I saw it: a narrow storefront with a flickering “Open” sign and a window full of leaning paperbacks.
By KAMRAN AHMAD2 months ago in Journal
The Last Game of the Season
I didn’t go for the win. I went because it was the last game. The gym was packed—folding chairs lined the walls, parents stood in the back, and the buzz of nervous energy hung thick in the air. Two rival high schools, decades of history, one championship on the line. But I wasn’t there for the trophy. I was there for my nephew, who’d spent all season riding the bench.
By KAMRAN AHMAD2 months ago in Journal
The Man Who Fixed the Clock
I didn’t notice the clock was broken until it stopped. It sat on the corner shelf of my grandparents’ living room for as long as I could remember—brass, ornate, with Roman numerals and a soft, steady tick that marked the rhythm of every visit. My grandfather wound it every Sunday without fail, even in his nineties, even when his hands shook.
By KAMRAN AHMAD2 months ago in Journal
