Pope Francis’ 35th apostolic journey in brief

Pope Francis visited Cyprus and Greece during his 35th international apostolic visit from 2-6 December 2021. The Pope is the third sovereign pontiff to visit these two countries, after Benedict XVI, who visited Cyprus in 2010, and Pope John Paul II, who visited Greece in 2001 to meet with communities there. During his visit, the Holy Father met with church and lay leaders, refugees, Catholic communities and young people. And through his words and presence, he drew people’s attention to a loving God who heals wounds, stressing the importance of openness and closeness to others. In what follows, I will highlight the thoughts that have been particularly prominent in these few days, summarising Pope Francis’ speeches in Cyprus and Greece.

Hungarian Passion Film – a memorial to our persecuted monks

A film with fictional characters (Father Leopold, Lieutenant Keller, Major Fyodorov, etc.) played by famous actors (Károly Eperjes, Péter Telekes in the main roles). The film presents the tragedy of the dissolution of the monastic orders by the communist regime in the middle of the 20th century through the ordeal of Father Leopold, Franciscan guardian, Franciscan abbot and history teacher. The story takes place in Hungary (filmed mainly in Máriabesnyő and Zichy Castle in Soponya), but could also be set in Máriaradná or Esztelnek.

How is the epidemic changing the culture of university research?

The COVID epidemic has affected our lives in many ways, changing individual and community lifestyles, so it is not surprising that it has had an impact on academic disciplines and the way universities operate. As a PhD student, the question may arise: what impact is the pandemic having on university research?

Invitation to (mourning) work

As part of the Clergy Training Programme of the Archdiocese of Alba Iulia, the training on mourning took place in the Antal Jakab House in Csíksomlyó between 11-13 October, with the support of the Harghita Regional Council. The eighth event of this year’s training was dedicated to the pastoral care of the bereaved.