Quote
“If we (bishops and priests) follow the path of riches, if we follow the path of pride, we will become wolves and not shepherds.”
Pope Francis, in his homily during morning Mass May 15 with employees of Vatican Radio. The pope asked those gathered to pray for their religious leaders — to ask God to help them be true shepherds who are humble and meek, and who “need to remain faithful, to be men who watch over our flocks and over ourselves.” (Catholic News Service)
Profile
Inez Johnson
Coordinator of youth and young adult ministry/Confirmation at Immaculate Heart of Mary, Papaikou, Big Island
- Favorite Scripture quote: 1 Corinthians 13:13
- Food: Pizza
- Island: Big Island of Hawaii
- Plate lunch: Korean chicken, white rice and mac salad
- Parable: Martha and Mary
- Church song: “Servant Song”
- Best church: Immaculate Heart of Mary, Papaikou
- Most memorable priest: Maryknoll Father Joseph Avery
Saints under 35
Blessed obedience
Maria Cristina of Savoy’s life was a lesson in duty. The princess was born on the island of Sardinia in 1812 to King Vittorio Emanuele I of Piedmont-Sardinia and Queen Maria Teresa. It was a tumultuous time for the House of Savoy, and Maria Cristina learned early on about her responsibilities to her royal family — at the same time, she also received a quality religious education.
Maria Cristina’s father determined it would be strategically wise for her to marry King Ferdinando II of the Two Sicilies; the couple wed in 1832. It was not a happy marriage, though, as King Ferdinando’s brusque personality clashed with Maria Cristina’s gentle, refined and modest manner.
Her quiet kindness — in contrast with her husband’s crude behavior — won her favor with the public, who also admired her strong Catholic faith. In fact, Maria Cristina’s devotion to God amid an unpleasant home life had many already considering her a saint.
Maria Cristina died from complications of childbirth in 1836 at age 24. Her son, who was raised by King Ferdinando’s second wife but was taught to honor the life of his late mother, pushed for Maria Cristina’s recognition by the church. On May 3 of this year, Pope Francis recognized a miracle attributed to her, paving the way for her beatification. (http://italianmonarchist.blogspot.com)