Dear OLP Family,

Today we begin Advent - our yearly pilgrimage through the events of our history of salvation starting with the preparation for the birthday celebration of Jesus and ending with the reflection on his glorious “second coming” as judge at the end of the world. Advent means coming.

Dear OLP Family,

We are in the Thanksgiving Week. Is Thanksgiving a religious holiday or a secular celebration? Although the secularism of our present culture may have turned the focus more to indulging in food, fun, games, and family gathering, we must not forget the history and the religious significance of this quintessential American holiday.

Dear OLP Family,

Did you hear the recent debate about Mother Mary in Catholic and non-Catholic circles all over the world? It is based on a doctrinal note that the Vatican issued on November 4, 2025, titled Mater populi fidelis (The Mother of the Faithful People). This note offered positive guidance for Marian devotion while cautioning against expressions that might be misunderstood.

Dear OLP Family,

Why is the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica celebrated today? Because, this anniversary is ranked as a 'Feast' unlike the 'Memorial' of other Roman churches (St. Mary Major, St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Paul Outside the Wall). The dedication of a church is a feast for all its parishioners. St. John Lateran is, in a sense, the parish church of all Catholics, for it is the pope's parish, the cathedral church of the Bishop of Rome.

Dear OLP Family,

We are entering the month of November that reminds us so much about death and life after death. Today being All Soul’s Day, we pray for all the departed souls. Our 12 noon service is a special Memorial Mass during which those who passed away this year are remembered and prayed for. We welcome, in a special way, the families and friends grieving the loss of a dear one this year. Reading their names reminds us that they are still part of our life.