#its an interfaith household

[officialbruciewayne]

How would you feel if I put a little Santa hat on the dinosaur..? :)

– @youthful-vengeance

A little puzzled because I thought the dinosaur was Jewish.

[bamsara]

I live in an interfaith household and trying to explain how we prepare for holiday season to someone outside the household is weird

my mother celebrates jewish holidays, step-father doesnt but loves yule, i have no idea what my siblings are, theres a lot of seasonal decor for holidays. why are there so many holidays. there is too much (< person who's been sorting tote boxes for two hours straight)

[challengersmp4]

kind of over the whole overbearing insane jewish family in media stereotype. most of us are normal we just like talking loudly

[abyssalaquarist00]

I Know dd is very much not 1 to 1 with the real world but do you think Alhazred has any mixed feelings/criticisms of dd!islam? Assuming that is the religion he was raised in?

i think i answered this partially here but sure, what the hell let's expand on it.

note: if i talk about something from the real world in context of alhazred, just assume i'm talking about the dd equivalent. i've always seen the light = christianity, i havent thought much about what judaism or islam would be called

first, here are some considerations:

he is a scholar. you don't become one if you don't have questions or criticisms. this is the most important part of his character.

any one person's relation to religion is tied to a few factors such as; household; community; locale. religion has also historically been enforced by government, and influenced by leaders who are influenced by politics.

islam, like its Abrahamic cousins, has different denominations therefore different interpretations.

cultural and religious practices are influenced by each other

Al-Hazred is based off of Abdul Al-Hazred, the HP Lovecraft character who authors the necronomicon (or "kitab al-azif"). the source character lived during the islamic golden age, and originally from yemen

im just a guy, i don't have a degree in this, i am not in school, i am not a scholar, i am merely a self-professed student of life. take every single thing i give you with a grain of salt and find a variety of sources that you might initially agree OR disagree with. just be open.

hope the below answers your question! i think this is everything. i wanted to make sure i'm covering all my bases. i'm happy to answer more, also :-)

my interpretation of alhazred is that he is an andalusian arab, who was brought up in a sufi household. regardless of religion, like many of us (i hope), he probably went through phases of religion and religiosity.

being raised sufi, he wouldnt have had a problem with mysticism as, say, someone raised strictly sunni would have. in fact, because he's from al-andalus in this context, this would be normal to him. i think it would be cool if he was from an interfaith household like me.

he would have been educated along side women, as the prophet advocated for. he would not have felt shame in liking men, and probably would have loved to read homosexual arabic poetry (see also: my doodles :-) ). he would have had open discussions with people of different faiths and probably engaged in discourse himself considering he went on to become a professor (indicated by one of his barks).

however, like all things, nothing is ever perfect.

because i believe al-hazred is fundamentally a good person, he would be critical of hadiths and views regarding difference in faith, apostasy / conversion, slavery, violence and misogyny. though to the last point, it should be noted that both men and women are subjected to modesty customs as well as everything else in the qu'ran.

he would not be the type of person to judge someone for their religion, but i do think he would judge someones religiosity (intensity of belief), because he doesn't believe in blindly following a doctrine. he is one to scrutinize, criticize, and raise questions about things- probably much to the annoyance of his family and teachers. he takes any text he comes across with a grain of salt, but with an open mind as well.

the biggest thing that i can see him struggling with is reconciling the islam that he was raised with to his current spiritual and religious practices- because that's where the mixed feelings likely settle. there is a general consensus among most islamic sects that interacting with djinn is forbidden because they can trick you and pretend to be muslim- but humans are capable of such actions anyway, so i never really understood the logic behind this. regardless, it's still a widely held belief, he was probably shaking in his boots when he first interacted with eldritch entities and he still probably is a little scared- he just handles it very well and he has to otherwise the entity he sealed within him would be unleashed.

this itself would be the biggest point of contention about religion and his current practice, and i believe i made mention of that in the original post above. he's not sure if what he did was the right choice, and he's likely fighting between justifying his actions vs regretting them

i can see alhazred, like myself, having to face microagressions or misconceptions of islam. as ive said in my original post, he's muslim when he has to defend the faith but he may or may not be on any other day. i think he drinks alcohol and does drugs but he draws the line at eating pork. he mightve tried pork once and felt guilty about it then never ate it again. is this very specific event based on my own experience? who's to say.

all this being said, we should be critical of our upbringings regardless of religiosity. i myself believe that our religion should fit the way we want to live our lives, and i recommend looking up the history of the word and concept. religion can be profound and guiding, but it is ultimately a tool that can be used in anyway.

extra notes:

dd al-andalus = a fantasy al-andalus that persisted into the 18th/19th centuries, where i imagine DD takes place. real world al-andalus largely followed sufi islam, and was much closer in history to when prophet mohammed (pbuh) was still alive

my mom is catholic and my dad is muslim. though my dad wasn't in the picture, my mom was raising mixed race children from an interfaith marriage in their father's country, so we got to choose our religion largely. she had a problem when i went atheist for a bit, but she didn't like, force me to believe in God or pray. i came back to God on my own accord, and even then it's not necessarily a concrete belief in such an entity but the faith that one exists despite the uncertainty.

[joeygoeshollywood]

My 25 Favorite Films of 2023

It's that time of year again! Here are my top 25 films of 2023.

25. Joy Ride

Following in the footsteps of Bridesmaids and Girls Trip, Joy Ride offers some of the biggest laughs of 2023 proving once again women can be just as raunchy as men. The cast includes up-and-comers Ashley Park, Oscar nominee Stephanie Hsu, and a scene-stealing breakthrough performance from Sherry Cola. Joy Ride marks a strong debut from writer-director Adele Lim.

24. Theater Camp

Anyone who had aspirations of becoming an actor can relate to Theater Camp, a mockumentary about the staff of a theater camp struggling to keep it afloat. Molly Gordon, Ben Platt, and Noah Galvin lead both behind and in front of the camera in this superb comedy that will leave you singing from the rooftops.

23. A Thousand and One

A Thousand and One is a heartbreaking indie film about a mother's desperate effort to form a bond with her estranged son by kidnapping him from the foster care system following her stint in prison. Teyana Taylor packs an emotional punch with her crushing performance with the help of A.V. Rockwell in her feature debut as a writer-director.

22. Thanksgiving

Eli Roth's filmography in horror is a mixed record, but his latest flick Thanksgiving may be his best work yet. Not only is it a solid slasher with great over-the-top killings, its brilliantly hilarious. In a time where horror franchises can be tiresome, Thanksgiving is one that could call for a second or third helping.

21. Somewhere in Queens

TV icon Ray Romano makes his feature directorial debut in the family comedy Somewhere in Queens. He stars as the father of a promising high school basketball player who goes through perhaps desperate means to assure he lands a college scholarship. Joined by the wonderful Laurie Metcalf, Somewhere in Queens has plenty of laughs as well as plenty of heart.

20. Dream Scenario

The remarkable comeback of Nicolas Cage continues with his brilliant performance in Dream Scenario, a dark fantasy horror comedy in which he plays a college professor who inexplicably starts appearing in everyone's dreams, sparking a national phenomenon that will ultimately take a personal toll. Cage balances the absurdity of the situation his character is in with emotional heft that comes with it. This marks Norwegian filmmaker Kristoffer Borgli's first English-language film and based on how well-executed Dream Scenario is, hopefully it won't be his last.

19. The Covenant

Guy Ritchie's latest The Covenant is a heart-pounding war film based on the true story of Sgt. John Kinley's rescue effort of his Afghan interpreter Ahmed. Jake Gyllenhaal and Dar Salim make a perfect duo in this dramatic, suspenseful film that may be Ritchie's strongest work to date.

18. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret.

Judy Blume's 1970 adolescent classic Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. finally made its way to the big screen this year in the heartwarming coming-of-age tale of a girl's awkward journey from childhood to adulthood as well as the complexities that come from being an interfaith household. Abby Ryder Fortson shines as the titular Margaret in an outstanding performance not often seen from child actors. Also, we need more Rachel McAdams.

17. BlackBerry

Arguably the biggest surprise of 2023, BlackBerry offers some of the best laughs in the comedic retelling of the rise and fall of the iconic BlackBerry device. BlackBerry is a showcase of talent of its star Jay Baruchel, Matt Johnson (who also directed and co-wrote the film), and Glenn Howerton of It's Always Sunny fame, easily giving one of the best on-screen performances of the entire year.

16. You Hurt My Feelings

Writer-director Nicole Holofcener reunites with her Enough Said star Julia Louis-Dreyfus with You Hurt My Feelings, which centers a turbulent chapter in a couple's marriage after a novelist overhears her husband mocking her latest book. The dramedy examines the thought-provoking nuances of how fully honest one actually should be with their spouse (the answer may surprise you!). The greatest strength from Holofcener's latest is how its humor comes naturally from the reality of relationships.

15. Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One

Mission: Impossible does the unthinkable in Hollywood: keeping a franchise in top-notch shape. Dead Reckoning Part One, the whopping *seventh* installment of the Ethan Hunt saga, delivers on a compelling plot and incredible action sequences, all of which is cemented by the star power of Tom Cruise, who has carried this spy franchise for nearly 20 years. There have been hints that Dead Reckoning may be the beginning of the end for Mission: Impossible, and if that's the case, it's going out with a bang.

14. Talk to Me

The best horror movie of 2023, Talk to Me is a chilling film about a group of teenager's ill-fated decision of doing a viral challenge of interacting with the dead, only to mistakenly leave the portal open between the living and the spirit world. What makes Talk to Me work is the family drama at the core of the film and the powerful performance from its troubled heroine Sophie Wilde.

13. Sisu

Inglorious Basterds meets Mad Max: Fury Road meets John Wick, Sisu is a WWII-era revenge action flick about a gold prospector's quest to retrieve the gold that was stolen from him from a group of Nazis. Full of brutal, bloody fight sequences with a twisted sense of humor, Sisu is one helluva ride.

12. Creed III

Creed III is a throwback to the era where Hollywood blockbusters were able to provide complete satisfaction. The latest installment of the Rocky spin-off franchise marked the strong directorial debut of its star Michael B. Jordan and also may have sadly marked the final film of the incredibly talented Jonathan Majors, whose recent assault conviction may be a knockout punch to an otherwise booming career.

11. May December

Often having vibes of a soap opera, Todd Haynes' May December is a compelling and at times disturbing film of an actress (played by Natalie Portman) who shadows the woman she's depicting in a film (played by Julianne Moore) famous for her 90s love affair with a then 13-year-old, who later became her husband. Despite the powerhouse performances from the two Oscar winners, the film really belongs to rising star Charles Melton, whose character finally comes to grips with the trauma he unknowingly endured as a child. And Melton's performance is among 2023's best.

10. Anatomy of a Fall

We don't often get great courtroom dramatic thrillers these days which is why Anatomy of a Fall really stands out. German actress Sandra Hüller gives a breakthrough performance as a wife and mother who becomes the prime suspect in what authorities believe is the murder of her husband, who had fallen to his death from the attic window. With plenty of twists and turns, Anatomy of a Fall will keep viewers guessing throughout.

9. Maestro

Not only does Bradley Cooper give the performance of his career, he has also shown his ability to direct is no fluke. Maestro, a biopic that spotlights the personal drama of legendary composer Leonard Bernstein, is a beautifully-shot, well-acted film that solidifies Cooper as one of Hollywood's newest talented filmmakers.

8. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

One would assume that a Spider-Man cartoon would solely be geared towards children but Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is such a sophisticated film between its complex plot and the remarkable animation that are a continuation from its 2018 Into the Spider-Verse predecessor. Between a strong voice cast, an amazing score and a brilliant cliffhanger, Across the Spider-Verse was the shining gem of the many superhero duds 2023 had to offer.

7. Killers of the Flower Moon

At 81-years-old, legendary director Martin Scorsese hasn't lost his step with Killers of the Flower Moon, his best film in at least a decade. The crime drama is based on a true story on the 1920s murders of members of Osage Nation and its ties to the marriage Ernest Burkhart and Mollie Kyle, played by the reliably gifted Leonardo DiCaprio and powerful newcomer Lily Gladstone.

6. Saltburn

Following her strong debut with 2020's Promising Young Woman, filmmaker Emerald Fennell makes a valiant return with her twisted comedic psychological drama Saltburn, which surrounds an Oxford student who is quickly embraced by the wealthy family of a classmate and the jarring fallout as a result. Barry Keoghan (The Banshees of Irisherin, Dunkirk) proves he's more than capable of being the leading man and is joined by rich ensemble including Rosamund Pike, Jacob Elordi, Richard E. Grant and Carey Mulligan. With stunning visuals and some of the most shocking things you'll see onscreen in 2023, Saltburn is a stirring work of art.

5. The Holdovers

It's been a long time since a new Christmas movie can live up to beloved holiday classics and Alexander Payne makes the closest effort with The Holdovers, a 1970-set dramedy about a miserable teacher at a boys academy who is stuck essentially babysitting the "holdover" students who didn't go home for the holidays. Joining the always-brilliant Paul Giamatti is newcomer Dominic Sessa as his troublesome student and Da'Vine Joy Randolph, who gives a powerful Oscar-worthy performance as the cook mourning over the loss of her son. The Holdovers is the perfect film to warm your heart over the holidays this year and every year going forward.

4. Past Lives

Perhaps one of the more unsung heroes of 2023 cinema, Past Lives is a touching story about love and what if. Greta Lee stars in a breakout role as a married woman who rekindles a relationship with a childhood friend from South Korea but rather than going down the typical "will they, won't they" or "love triangle" paths this film easily could've taken, Past Lives delves into the emotional complexities with such tenderness that only writer/director Celine Song could've told (the film is semi-autobiographical).

3. Oppenheimer

If anyone knows how to make a biopic an epic, it's Christopher Nolan. Oppenheimer is essentially two films rolled into one- a tick-tock thriller about the creation of the atomic bomb as well as a political drama that J. Robert Oppenheimer endured. Cillian Murphy gives the performance of his career and leads a gigantic ensemble cast in a film that despite its 3-hour running time goes by fast. And while Barbie may have won the box office battle, Oppenheimer certain won the war in more ways than one.

2. Polite Society

Polite Society is a brilliant action comedy following an aspiring stuntwoman who believes her sister is marrying into a sinister family. In the style of a Tarantino movie, up-and-coming filmmaker Nida Manzoor makes a strong feature debut that is the epitome of a fun popcorn movie, which have been in short supply in recent years.

Poor Things

Yorgos Lanthimos has quickly risen as of the strongest filmmakers of this generation, proving so once again with his latest film Poor Things. Emma Stone gives an Oscar-worthy performance as a woman brought back to life who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and autonomy and is accompanied by an excellent supporting cast. Like a modern-day Tim Burton, Lanthimos was able to create a mesmerizing universe with incredible production design, a whimsical music score, and stunning cinematography. Going to the movies is meant to be an escape, and Poor Things perfectly encapsulates that.

[bitter-as-wormwood-13]

I feel like you could make a meme about like "Kids in interfaith households when its Chrismanukkah" but I don't even know what photo you'd add

Passeaster also happens but that one's less fun

[cleverhottubmiracle]

Pope Francis, the revered leader of the Roman Catholic Church and a spiritual figure cherished by millions worldwide, passed away today (April 21) at the age of 88 after a prolonged battle with double pneumonia. His death marks the close of a profoundly transformative chapter in the Church’s history—one shaped by his unwavering commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and social justice. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” read a statement from Cardinal Kevin Farrell, published by Vatican News. According to the report, the pontiff died peacefully at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, following 38 days of intensive treatment at Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital. He is expected to be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome—a final resting place befitting a pope whose legacy will echo through generations. A Life of Firsts and Humble Service Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrants Mario José Bergoglio, a railway worker, and Regina María Sívori, a homemaker. He was the eldest of five siblings and grew up in a modest, deeply Catholic household. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1958 at the age of 21, beginning a lifelong commitment to service in the Catholic Church. Elected in March 2013 as the 266th pope, Francis broke with centuries of tradition, becoming the first Jesuit, the first Latin American, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. From the outset, he signaled a new era—one defined by humility and proximity to the people. Rejecting the grandeur of the Apostolic Palace, he chose instead to reside in the modest Casa Santa Marta. His declaration, “My people are poor and I am one of them,” became a defining expression of his papacy and a testament to his solidarity with the marginalized. A Life of Compassion and Impact Pope Francis greets the thousands in St. Peter’s Square for the first time since he was discharged from the hospital in March. (Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram) Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis became globally renowned for his bold yet deeply compassionate vision. He championed the cause of the poor, embraced interfaith dialogue, and called on the Church to open its arms wider—to be more inclusive, forgiving, and attuned to the lived realities of its followers. His landmark encyclical Laudato Si’ urged the world to confront the climate crisis, framing care for the planet as a moral imperative. Whether addressing global inequality or ecological devastation, his leadership was grounded in one core mission: to heal. To heal people, communities, and the Earth itself. In his final years, Pope Francis faced escalating health challenges, including repeated hospitalizations for respiratory complications. Nevertheless, he carried on with remarkable resilience, continuing to share messages of hope and compassion—even as his physical strength visibly declined. Just last Thursday, he visited prisoners at Rome’s Regina Coeli prison, reaffirming his lifelong commitment to the marginalized. A week prior, he made a quiet but poignant visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing reverent attention. And on Easter Sunday (April 20), he made what would become his final public appearance, offering a brief yet heartfelt address to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Ultimately, his perseverance in the face of suffering stood as a powerful testament to his steadfast devotion to both the Church and the wider global community. An Outpouring of Grief and Gratitude Pope Francis visits Rome’s Regina Coeli prison on Thursday, April 17, 2025, during Holy Week. (Photo: Vatican Media) News of his passing has prompted a global outpouring of grief and admiration. From heads of state and religious leaders to everyday individuals, tributes have poured in honoring Pope Francis’s extraordinary legacy. Many have shared personal stories and reflections, recalling his warmth, humility, and the transformative power of his presence. On social media, timelines across continents have filled with messages celebrating a spiritual leader whose moral clarity and compassion transcended borders. Indeed, Pope Francis’s words will continue to echo: a call for mercy over judgment, dialogue over division, and action over apathy. He championed environmental stewardship, human dignity, and unconditional compassion—especially for the forgotten, the poor, and the marginalized. In uncertain times, his teachings brought solace. In moments of injustice, they inspired courage. His voice may now be silent, but his message endures. The Path Ahead for the Church The altar of St. Jerome, inside the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, at the Basilica of St. Peter’s. (Photo: @caputmundi06/Instagram) As the Catholic Church prepares for the next conclave, it finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. The cardinals tasked with choosing a successor must now reckon with a rapidly evolving world—one marked by deep inequalities, spiritual searching, and global crises. Yet, they will also be guided by the vision Pope Francis leaves behind: a Church shaped by humility, justice, and radical compassion. His legacy is both a foundation and a call to action, challenging the next pontiff to carry forward a mission centered not on power, but on people. A Lasting Legacy Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram) Pope Francis leaves behind more than memories—he leaves a movement. His papacy redefined the role of spiritual leadership, transforming it into a beacon of empathy, inclusivity, and courageous action. Though he is no longer with us, the values he so passionately championed will echo through generations, continuing to inspire a Church—and a world—in search of compassion and purpose. Featured image: Getty Images For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_ —Read also John Edegbai A passionate contributor at Style Rave, focused on men's style, health, entertainment, and art, with a great eye for spotting money-saving deals. At Style Rave, we aim to inspire our readers by providing engaging content to not just entertain but to inform and empower you as you ASPIRE to become more stylish, live smarter and be healthier. Follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_ ♥ !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[norajworld]

Pope Francis, the revered leader of the Roman Catholic Church and a spiritual figure cherished by millions worldwide, passed away today (April 21) at the age of 88 after a prolonged battle with double pneumonia. His death marks the close of a profoundly transformative chapter in the Church’s history—one shaped by his unwavering commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and social justice. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” read a statement from Cardinal Kevin Farrell, published by Vatican News. According to the report, the pontiff died peacefully at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, following 38 days of intensive treatment at Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital. He is expected to be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome—a final resting place befitting a pope whose legacy will echo through generations. A Life of Firsts and Humble Service Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrants Mario José Bergoglio, a railway worker, and Regina María Sívori, a homemaker. He was the eldest of five siblings and grew up in a modest, deeply Catholic household. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1958 at the age of 21, beginning a lifelong commitment to service in the Catholic Church. Elected in March 2013 as the 266th pope, Francis broke with centuries of tradition, becoming the first Jesuit, the first Latin American, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. From the outset, he signaled a new era—one defined by humility and proximity to the people. Rejecting the grandeur of the Apostolic Palace, he chose instead to reside in the modest Casa Santa Marta. His declaration, “My people are poor and I am one of them,” became a defining expression of his papacy and a testament to his solidarity with the marginalized. A Life of Compassion and Impact Pope Francis greets the thousands in St. Peter’s Square for the first time since he was discharged from the hospital in March. (Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram) Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis became globally renowned for his bold yet deeply compassionate vision. He championed the cause of the poor, embraced interfaith dialogue, and called on the Church to open its arms wider—to be more inclusive, forgiving, and attuned to the lived realities of its followers. His landmark encyclical Laudato Si’ urged the world to confront the climate crisis, framing care for the planet as a moral imperative. Whether addressing global inequality or ecological devastation, his leadership was grounded in one core mission: to heal. To heal people, communities, and the Earth itself. In his final years, Pope Francis faced escalating health challenges, including repeated hospitalizations for respiratory complications. Nevertheless, he carried on with remarkable resilience, continuing to share messages of hope and compassion—even as his physical strength visibly declined. Just last Thursday, he visited prisoners at Rome’s Regina Coeli prison, reaffirming his lifelong commitment to the marginalized. A week prior, he made a quiet but poignant visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing reverent attention. And on Easter Sunday (April 20), he made what would become his final public appearance, offering a brief yet heartfelt address to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Ultimately, his perseverance in the face of suffering stood as a powerful testament to his steadfast devotion to both the Church and the wider global community. An Outpouring of Grief and Gratitude Pope Francis visits Rome’s Regina Coeli prison on Thursday, April 17, 2025, during Holy Week. (Photo: Vatican Media) News of his passing has prompted a global outpouring of grief and admiration. From heads of state and religious leaders to everyday individuals, tributes have poured in honoring Pope Francis’s extraordinary legacy. Many have shared personal stories and reflections, recalling his warmth, humility, and the transformative power of his presence. On social media, timelines across continents have filled with messages celebrating a spiritual leader whose moral clarity and compassion transcended borders. Indeed, Pope Francis’s words will continue to echo: a call for mercy over judgment, dialogue over division, and action over apathy. He championed environmental stewardship, human dignity, and unconditional compassion—especially for the forgotten, the poor, and the marginalized. In uncertain times, his teachings brought solace. In moments of injustice, they inspired courage. His voice may now be silent, but his message endures. The Path Ahead for the Church The altar of St. Jerome, inside the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, at the Basilica of St. Peter’s. (Photo: @caputmundi06/Instagram) As the Catholic Church prepares for the next conclave, it finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. The cardinals tasked with choosing a successor must now reckon with a rapidly evolving world—one marked by deep inequalities, spiritual searching, and global crises. Yet, they will also be guided by the vision Pope Francis leaves behind: a Church shaped by humility, justice, and radical compassion. His legacy is both a foundation and a call to action, challenging the next pontiff to carry forward a mission centered not on power, but on people. A Lasting Legacy Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram) Pope Francis leaves behind more than memories—he leaves a movement. His papacy redefined the role of spiritual leadership, transforming it into a beacon of empathy, inclusivity, and courageous action. Though he is no longer with us, the values he so passionately championed will echo through generations, continuing to inspire a Church—and a world—in search of compassion and purpose. Featured image: Getty Images For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_ —Read also John Edegbai A passionate contributor at Style Rave, focused on men's style, health, entertainment, and art, with a great eye for spotting money-saving deals. At Style Rave, we aim to inspire our readers by providing engaging content to not just entertain but to inform and empower you as you ASPIRE to become more stylish, live smarter and be healthier. Follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_ ♥ !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script', ' fbq('init', '496558104568102'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script',' fbq('init', '1453079628754066'); fbq('track', "PageView"); Source link

[chilimili212]

Pope Francis, the revered leader of the Roman Catholic Church and a spiritual figure cherished by millions worldwide, passed away today (April 21) at the age of 88 after a prolonged battle with double pneumonia. His death marks the close of a profoundly transformative chapter in the Church’s history—one shaped by his unwavering commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and social justice. “At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church,” read a statement from Cardinal Kevin Farrell, published by Vatican News. According to the report, the pontiff died peacefully at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, following 38 days of intensive treatment at Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital. He is expected to be laid to rest at the Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome—a final resting place befitting a pope whose legacy will echo through generations. A Life of Firsts and Humble Service Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrants Mario José Bergoglio, a railway worker, and Regina María Sívori, a homemaker. He was the eldest of five siblings and grew up in a modest, deeply Catholic household. He entered the Society of Jesus in 1958 at the age of 21, beginning a lifelong commitment to service in the Catholic Church. Elected in March 2013 as the 266th pope, Francis broke with centuries of tradition, becoming the first Jesuit, the first Latin American, and the first non-European pontiff in over 1,200 years. From the outset, he signaled a new era—one defined by humility and proximity to the people. Rejecting the grandeur of the Apostolic Palace, he chose instead to reside in the modest Casa Santa Marta. His declaration, “My people are poor and I am one of them,” became a defining expression of his papacy and a testament to his solidarity with the marginalized. A Life of Compassion and Impact Pope Francis greets the thousands in St. Peter’s Square for the first time since he was discharged from the hospital in March. (Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram) Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis became globally renowned for his bold yet deeply compassionate vision. He championed the cause of the poor, embraced interfaith dialogue, and called on the Church to open its arms wider—to be more inclusive, forgiving, and attuned to the lived realities of its followers. His landmark encyclical Laudato Si’ urged the world to confront the climate crisis, framing care for the planet as a moral imperative. Whether addressing global inequality or ecological devastation, his leadership was grounded in one core mission: to heal. To heal people, communities, and the Earth itself. In his final years, Pope Francis faced escalating health challenges, including repeated hospitalizations for respiratory complications. Nevertheless, he carried on with remarkable resilience, continuing to share messages of hope and compassion—even as his physical strength visibly declined. Just last Thursday, he visited prisoners at Rome’s Regina Coeli prison, reaffirming his lifelong commitment to the marginalized. A week prior, he made a quiet but poignant visit to St. Peter’s Basilica, drawing reverent attention. And on Easter Sunday (April 20), he made what would become his final public appearance, offering a brief yet heartfelt address to the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Ultimately, his perseverance in the face of suffering stood as a powerful testament to his steadfast devotion to both the Church and the wider global community. An Outpouring of Grief and Gratitude Pope Francis visits Rome’s Regina Coeli prison on Thursday, April 17, 2025, during Holy Week. (Photo: Vatican Media) News of his passing has prompted a global outpouring of grief and admiration. From heads of state and religious leaders to everyday individuals, tributes have poured in honoring Pope Francis’s extraordinary legacy. Many have shared personal stories and reflections, recalling his warmth, humility, and the transformative power of his presence. On social media, timelines across continents have filled with messages celebrating a spiritual leader whose moral clarity and compassion transcended borders. Indeed, Pope Francis’s words will continue to echo: a call for mercy over judgment, dialogue over division, and action over apathy. He championed environmental stewardship, human dignity, and unconditional compassion—especially for the forgotten, the poor, and the marginalized. In uncertain times, his teachings brought solace. In moments of injustice, they inspired courage. His voice may now be silent, but his message endures. The Path Ahead for the Church The altar of St. Jerome, inside the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, at the Basilica of St. Peter’s. (Photo: @caputmundi06/Instagram) As the Catholic Church prepares for the next conclave, it finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. The cardinals tasked with choosing a successor must now reckon with a rapidly evolving world—one marked by deep inequalities, spiritual searching, and global crises. Yet, they will also be guided by the vision Pope Francis leaves behind: a Church shaped by humility, justice, and radical compassion. His legacy is both a foundation and a call to action, challenging the next pontiff to carry forward a mission centered not on power, but on people. A Lasting Legacy Photo: @vaticannews/Instagram) Pope Francis leaves behind more than memories—he leaves a movement. His papacy redefined the role of spiritual leadership, transforming it into a beacon of empathy, inclusivity, and courageous action. Though he is no longer with us, the values he so passionately championed will echo through generations, continuing to inspire a Church—and a world—in search of compassion and purpose. Featured image: Getty Images For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_ —Read also John Edegbai A passionate contributor at Style Rave, focused on men's style, health, entertainment, and art, with a great eye for spotting money-saving deals. At Style Rave, we aim to inspire our readers by providing engaging content to not just entertain but to inform and empower you as you ASPIRE to become more stylish, live smarter and be healthier. 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[trendifymarketz]

Best Couples Therapy in Toronto: Expert Solutions for Stronger Relationships

Introduction: Why Couples Therapy Matters in Toronto

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[bookshelfmouse]

Do you think an interfaith relationship can truly work? My bf and i are in this situation and im starting to think its true that it doesnt/it takes more than i can handle sometimes

Hi, anon,

I’m not an expert on these things but I think it’s important to define what you mean by “working.” Is it avoiding arguments over faith? Constructively having conversations about faith? Simply enjoying each other’s company?

It also very much depends on how seriously each of you takes your faith. It’s easier to have an interfaith relationship when faith doesn’t really matter to one, if not both, parties. If you’re a devout & practicing member of your faith and your partner is something like a Christmas-Easter Christian, then it’s really gonna be a one faith relationship (ie, your faith). This isn’t a problem when you’re the only two affected by this difference of faith.

The real issue comes when considering marriage and children. Practically speaking, a dual faith household is a no faith household where children are concerned. Any true faith, done properly, is not an interchangeable thing. It’s a matter of the eternal. If you want your children to have faith, you must choose one faith and follow it wholeheartedly. This still will not guarantee that they stay in the faith of your choice for the rest of their lives but it gives them a much stronger start (raise up a child in the way he should go, etc.). When it comes to marriage, do each of your faiths have the same understanding of what marriage means? Do they have the same approach to sexual ethics? Marriage, whether in a faith or with no faith, is hard. Very hard. I would ask yourself if faith differences are a kind of difficulty that you are okay taking on on top of the regular set of challenges of marriage.

In my opinion (and experience), an interfaith relationship will only work out long term if (1) neither party takes their faith seriously or (2) one person converts. I would ask yourself and your boyfriend how much faith matters to each of you, and if conversion is a possibility. These are very hard questions to answer, and the outcome can be heartbreaking, I’m not gonna lie to you.

Know I’m praying for you! This is definitely not a complete answer, but my DMs are open if you want to talk more❤️

[tragedyposting]

Things I'd like to ask questions about for my novel*, varying from cultural identities to life experiences:

Babies (I don't know any!)

Early parenthood

Postpartum depression

Mexican-American or Tejano culture/experience

Interfaith and/or multicultural families

Being visibly disabled

Being visually impaired

Brain injury

PTSD

Growing up in emotionally repressive households

Older brother and younger sister dynamics (if you get along well)

Losing a sibling

This sounds like a joke but genuinely WASP culture

*Keeping in mind that its a historical fiction piece set in 1922 so mileage may vary for all of these things, society has changed a great deal in the past century. I still want to know things, I trust in my ability to make inferences and do research about change over time

DM me if you want to answer questions about any of these things (and specify which)!

Things I'd be happy to answer questions about for other writers:

Being invisibly disabled/chronic joint pain/chronic fatigue (mild-moderate I think?)

Endometriosis (you can ask about this for non-writing reasons too)

Jewish culture/identity (I was raised very secular so I'm not really the person to ask about the religion itself)

Having a twin (with a complicated relationship)

Being bisexual

Working with kids/teens, kids/teens in general

Being a "glass child" (I actually have major problems with this term and the way its portrayed and I think to an extent its sort of a selfish identity but it is a conversation people are having so I guess I can talk about it if that helps bring the conversation somewhere better)

Living as a gender non-conforming woman

DM me if you want to ask questions about any of these things!

Currently this is all I can think of but I may add more in the future and if there's anything I've mentioned that you want to ask about I am really an open book.

Asking people about their lived experiences with various facets of life is such a precious tool for writers I’m learning so much. Eventually (maybe later today?) I want to make a list of other experiences I’d like to interview people about and aspects of my own experience I’d be willing to answer questions about from other writers. I recommend the shit out of it.

[be-gay-do-heists]

as much as i really really love hardison’s jewish speech in ep 1 of redemption, sometimes thinking about how they led into it kinda rubs me the wrong way

[apollonic]

me: im so annoyed at how pervasive xmas is in fandom, ugh

me, five minutes later: time to put up the tree!

[beaniebaneenie]

So my first testing post showed up in the tags (thank you to everyone who replied and liked!) but after I reblogged floral’s, it didn’t. 

Let’s see if this one does. 

I have so many headcanon/theory posts planned once I can post with any degree of certainty that y’all will be able to read them lol... if there’s any y’all particularly wanna hear me yell about, send me an ask!

Danny was raised in an interfaith household (Jack is Christian, Maddie is Jewish)

Danny’s eyes shifting through the ski-safety colors thingie is an indication of his power level

the Ghost Zone is actually Niflheimr, the Norse realm of the dead (and all the stuff that goes with that... like the Far Frozen being Jotunheimr)

Danny has undiagnosed ADHD that kinda goes haywire as he gets his ghost instincts

Danny was a star student before the accident, which is why Lancer rides him so hard

Danny’s ghost-eyes can see way better than human ones, and can see way more things. This has varying results on his mental state, depending on what he’s looking at.

the accident gave Danny other side effects: migraines, chronic pain, he runs cold, his metabolism is screwy from one day to the next, etc

when they were kids, Dash was Danny’s first best friend- which is one of the reasons his current behavior hurts so much

AU where the Ghost Zone is semi-sentient and very similar to the Never Land, and picked Danny as its ‘champion’, very similar to Peter Pan’s relationship with the island in the original novel

the Fentons may use technology to hunt ghosts, but it turns out that a lot of the old ways are WAY more effective (blood blossoms, iron, salt, sigils)

as part of his lower body temperature, Danny’s tastebuds are dulled... and now, he’s a HUGE fan of spicy food, because it’s food he can actually taste

if you know what you’re doing and you use the right name, Danny can be summoned... even if he’s not in ghost form. He’s not currently aware of this.

as he grows up, Phantom ages along with Danny- but there are some slight differences in appearance that keeps people from making the connection (except Wes of course)

at one point, the Fentons all go to a Packers game and Ghost Shenanigans ensue... Phantom shows up to save the day, with some interesting (and hilarious) unforeseen results

[writingwithcolor]

Hi, thank you all so much for running this blog--I was hoping I could get your feedback on a Jewish MC. The crux of my question is whether I, a gentile, would be out of line depicting her experiencing internalized discrimination from her own father (who in my first draft was Catholic, but I think that will be changing to a TBD protestant denomination).

The backstory I have for her right now is that her mother is Jewish and places great value on the history and culture of being Jewish, but is not a particularly religious person. Her daughter refers to her as having sometimes attended events at a local reform synagogue and making note of the high holidays but she is, overall, not someone with strict religious observances of any kind, and for a long time she and her husband (raised Christian but deeply agnostic) raise their daughter on the idea that it's important to understand where she and her family come from but that how she ultimately pursues faith--whatever that faith may be--is up to her. Both parents introduce her to the stories and lessons they grew up with but don't pressure her to attend religious events, etc. unless she has a personal, independent interest in doing so. For the first 16 or so years of her life this is how she's raised and her family is stable and her parents seem deeply in love. So far beta readers from households with one Jewish and one Christian parent have told me this backstory seems fine to them, though I welcome any feedback you have, too.

What I'm most concerned about, though, is when she's a teen and her parents divorce. Right now I have the reason for their divorce as being that they fell out because her dad becomes a bit of a Christian zelot and becomes less and less respectful of his wife's religion and background as he gets deeper into this mindset. The reason he becomes like that is essentially that when 9/11 happens MCs mother, who grew up with the story of how her grandparents fled from the Soviet Union because of religious discrimination under Stalin, only narrowly managing to immigrate as far as the US before the breakout of WWII, powerfully empathizes with the people suffering from the horrible rise of Islamophobia we saw in 2001-2002. Her husband, on the other hand, does what I saw a lot of people in my family and community do and becomes increasingly religiously conservative as a reaction the percieved "threat" of the Islamic world. (This is all clearly identified in the book as his being in the wrong.) One of the ways this manifests is that he starts pressuring his daughter, the MC, to attend church services with him and become Christian. His rationale is that he just wants what's best for his daughter--to be "saved."

MC's mother has no tolerance for that crap, as she shouldn't, so they fight quite a bit going forward and eventually separate. Mom gets custody of the MC.

While her father never says anything openly antisemitic--implying those ideas but never stating them explicitly--he does respond to 16 yr. old MC basically asking him if he would still love her if she pursued her mom's faith by saying some bullshit along the lines of "well honey I just love you and want the best for you," as his answer. She never says to him that she's cutting him out, but after this moment she's never close to her father again and by the time the main narrative takes place 10 years later, she hasn't spoken to him since she was 21.

This backstory helps build a foundation for a lot of themes for the MC in terms of different ways alienation manifests in her life, how she trusts, and what we can and cannot forgive our parents for, so I like it from a narrative standpoint, but I would deeply appreciate your feedback on whether writing this kind of experience for a Jewish character is inappropriate for me to be doing. And, if not, do you have any suggestions on ways to modify this backstory, or would you recommend scrapping it entirely? Thank you so much.

Interfaith family broken up when Dad becomes a jerk and a bigot

A difficult situation definitely but I don’t have a problem with the setup. If this isn’t based on your own observations, it’s probably a good idea to get a beta reader with experience around bigots of the same stripe as Dad to make sure the awful stuff Dad says uses word choices and ideas that feel authentic. If that IS your experience I am so very sorry and I hope you have other wonderful people in your life to make up for it. 

--Shira This seems very well planned, and thought out. It's also very real, and will be an emotional read I'm sure. As long as your character isn't forced to give up her Jewishness because of her father, and provided that you are careful during fight scenes between the parents earlier in the work (to ensure that the mom doesn't end up seeming like the Shrill Jewish Woman stereotype), I think you are on solid ground. Good luck!

--Dierdra

Also, I just caught that you said "internalized discrimination" from her dad -- that's not what internalized discrimination means. Internalized discrimination is when someone is feeling negatively about their own group, because they've absorbed bigoted ideas from outside. Discrimination from someone who isn't yourself isn't called “internalized” even when it comes from someone as close as a parent. But that's just a little language correction.

--Shira

Oh no, this backstory is so sad! I hope your MC has a happy ending with some very mutually supportive relationships.

I agree that this shouldn't be a problem as long as you take care to avoid stereotypes on a more micro level in specific scenes. As for the overall idea, nothing jumping out at me. You've clearly put so much effort into creating a believable background for your character and its influence on her current psyche - that gives me confidence that you will write humanised characters rather than falling back on tropes!

Also, don't know if you knew this but something to note with interfaith families: if MC's mother is Jewish, she is a Jew in Jewish law. It doesn't matter what she believes or practises or how she was brought up. (I don't say this to invalidate patrilineal Jews or oppose anyone self-identifying the way they want, but just halachically. You should be aware that many more religious Jews will consider her that way.)

Good luck with your story! I would read this 😌

--Shoshi