December 31, 2009. The fall, started off with one of the biggest announcements of the year and one of the biggest changes in the Church’s recent history.


The formation of personal ordinariates for Anglicans who want to join the Catholic Church.

The Vatican announced Anglicans parishes and entire dioceses would be allowed to come into full communion with the Catholic Church, while still maintaining some of thier own traditions.

Mons. Joseph di Noia
Secretary, Congregation for Divine Worship
“This form, the personal ordinariates allows for something very much part of the local Church, and as groups emerge who wish now to take advantage Apostolic constitution wherever in the world they can do so in a local way in consultation with the Holy See and with the Conferences in each place.”

Before the announcement, some 50 Anglican bishops asked for their dioceses to be welcomed into the Catholic Church.


Meanwhile, more than 200 bishops gathered for the Synod of Bishops for Africa. The synod tackled issues that surround the Church around the world such as poverty, world hunger, AIDS, ecumenical dialogue and wars.

Arch. John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan
Abuja (Nigeria)
“There are countries where there are still conflict, so they need for a reconciliation, and some countries there is no conflicts but there is no justice and therefore everywhere in Africa we have need to bill peace and consolidate.”

October also marked month in which 5 exceptional figures were celebrated in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Recognized for their work and service to others, the Pope canonized 5 saints, one of the most prominent figures, Father Damien.

Matthew Bunson
Author, St. Damin of Molokai
“This Belgian priest living in Hawaii became bigger than both Belgium and Hawaii, justifiably celebrated by both. But by the time of that immense suffering that he underwent in Molokai he had become a truly international figure.”

Pilgrims from Hawaii and all around the world gathered in St. Peter’s Basilica to witness their patron saint get a place at the altars in a very memorable ceremony.
MC