<p>Saint Charles Borromeo was born to a wealthy family in 1538 in Italy and suffered with a speech impediment. He studied in Milan. In 1560, when his uncle was elected Pope Pius IV, Charles was made cardinal-deacon and administrator of the Archdiocese of Milan. Due to his intellectual abilities, he was entrusted with offices connected with the Vatican and was later appointed secretary of state. He was ordained a priest at 25 and consecrated Bishop of Milan. He helped to re-open the Council of Trent and participated in its sessions. He worked to revise the Missal and Breviary as well as Church music. He was also engaged in founding schools for the poor, seminaries for clerics, and hospitals for the sick. He conducted synods, instituted children’s Sunday school, worked among the sick and dying, forbade himself all luxury and led his people by example. He died at the age of 46 and is buried in the Metropolitan Cathedral of Milan. He was canonized by Paul V in 1610, and is the patron of catechists, catechumens, and clergy. For more information <a href="https://catholicsaints.info/saint-charles-borromeo/">click here</a>.</p>

<p>The four directions of a Church: If we think about the Church in the shape of a cross, the area in which the altar and apse are located is referred to as the east end of the Church, even though it may not correspond to the actual compass direction. This is because the first churches were built facing east so that the sun would rise behind the altar and the entire assembly, with the priest standing at the altar, would all be facing east, awaiting the glorious return of our Lord. (Matthew 24:27). The altar end of the church continues to be designated as the liturgical east, while the main doors are located at the (liturgical) west end. Looking toward the altar, the area on the left is called the north side, and the right is called the south side. Unfortunately, the issue of liturgical orientation can cause confusion and in some cases controversy. What is most important is that we orientate our hearts toward Christ.</p>

<p>A Prayer for the Deceased – Loving God, source of life, we pray for all of our departed friends and family members as well as those who have no one to remember them in prayer. With gratitude for their lives and love, we pray that they may receive your mercy and grace. Welcome them into the light of your heavenly kingdom and grant them eternal life in the joy of your steadfast love. Continue to bring comfort and peace to all those who mourn their loss and help them to receive the consolations of our care and support. We also pray for the grace and strength to journey in the footsteps of Christ that, when our earthly lives are complete, we may have a share in the joy of salvation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.</p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">On Remembrance Day, Catholics remember those who have died in war and pray for victims of war throughout the world. They also pray for peace and reflect on ways that they can be makers of peace in the world. Teach and practice conflict resolution skills with children and youth as a way to promote peace. This includes teaching understanding, empathy, responsibility, communication and choice. On November 9, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. This is the oldest and most important of the four major basilicas in Rome and is the official Church for Pope Leo XIV as well as the mother of all churches in the world. It represents God’s desire to build a spiritual temple in the world and reminds us of the importance of the spiritual buildings in our communities. Send a letter of appreciation to your local pastor thanking him for his work and volunteer your time and talents in the community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p>