Marcel 1st, Native of Rome, was the 30th pope of the catholic church from May 27, 308 to January 309, He succeeded Marcellin (296-304) after four years of vacancy of the pontifical siege, at a time when the persecutions against Christians were very great.

Marcel the first had to reorganize worship in temporary buildings, the churches having been sacked under Diocletian, by establishing twenty-five presbyteries in Rome. He also had to deal with apostate Christians, who had denied Christ since the persecution of Emperor Decius and would have demanded an act of penance from them.

The emperor Maxence, annoyed by the outspokenness of Saint Marcel, would have enslaved him andturned into a groom.

The Golden Legend reports that Pope Marcel was caught celebrating Mass in the home of a Lady. Emperor Maximian had the rich mansion converted into a stable and condemned the pontiff to keep the cattle.

Marcel the first was probably dead on January 16, 309 and has been buried in Roma, in in Priscilla's catacomb where many martyrs lie.

Diocese of Miarinarivo

Pope Francis has accepted the renunciation of the pastoral government of the Diocese of Miarinarivo, presented by H.E. Mgr Jean Claude Randrianarisoa. At the same time, the Supreme Pontiff has appointed H.E. Mgr Marie Fabien Raharilamboniaina, as Apostolic Admnistrator sede vacante et ad nutum Sanctae Sedis of the same Diocese.

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Love and Salvation

Christmas is a great joy, because it is the love of God that has come to us, proclaims Fr. Bizimana Innocent, Provincial Superior of the Salesians Don Bosco of Madagascar and Mauritius, presenting his Christmas greetings. Salvation is accomplished, so life is not in danger of disappearing. It is this love and this salvation that we wish to fill our life so that we have peace.

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Zatti, our brother

The short film "Zatti, our brother" (Argentina, 2020) focuses on one of the most difficult episodes of his life. We are in Viedma, in 1941: at the age of 60, Zatti is forced to leave the hospital he has attended for decades. His faith and strength are tested.

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