(ANS – Lima) – The centenary of the consecration of the high altar in the Crypt of the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Lima was celebrated on 19 March, on the feast of St Joseph and in homage to Fr José Calasanz Marqués, then Provincial of the Salesians in Peru and Bolivia – now recognised as Blessed by the Church – on account of his name.

(ANS – New Rochelle) - Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, joins humanitarian organizations and countries around the globe in celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8. The day honors the economic, political and social achievements of women while focusing the world’s attention on areas requiring further action.

(ANS – Vatican City) – Return to the essentials, be small before God, fast from external needs, convert with all your heart. This is the path traced by the exhortations of Francis, John Paul I, Saint Paul VI and Saint John Paul II. Words, taken from their Pontificates, which in this Lenten journey are an intense exhortation addressed to the heart of every human being.