Virginia

Servant of God Francis Parater's cause was opened by the Diocese of Richmond. He died while a seminarian studying at the North American College in Rome. He was baptized at St. Patrick Church in Richmond, VA. Read the blog post here. 

More to come about these Spanish Jesuit missionaries, martyred near Williamsburg, VA decades before the British colony of Jamestown was formed.

Mother Drexel's first home for black girls was near Richmond, VA. It was called St. Francis de Sales School for Girls. It is now abandoned as well as the school nearby that was started by her sister, St. Emma's Military School for Boys. The schools were closed in the 1970s after desegregation. The buildings are historic landmarks, but having fallen into disrepair. The property was sold by the Sisters and is now privately owned. More to come about this school created found by St. Katharine Drexel.

Buddhism is a religion that originated in ancient India and is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha. It emphasizes the importance of understanding suffering and the impermanence of life. Buddhists aim to achieve enlightenment and end the cycle of rebirth.

Judaism has many festivals throughout the year that commemorate important events in Jewish history, such as Passover, Hanukkah, and Yom Kippur. These festivals provide an opportunity for Jews to connect with their faith, family and community.

Hinduism is a complex religion with many gods and goddesses. Hindus believe in one ultimate reality, but worship different deities for various reasons. Each god and goddess has their own unique qualities and represents different aspects of the universe.