The observance of which was extended by Pope Benedict XV to the Universal Church and enriched with indulgences, February 25, 1916, had its inception in 1908 under Reverend Paul J. Francis, when he was a "Pro-Roman" Anglican of tbe Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States. The first practical result was the submission and reception of 17 members of the Society of the Atonement, of which Father Paul was the founder and Superior, into the Catholic Church, October 30, 1909. In December, the Octave received the sanction and blessing of Pius X, and September 22, 1921, Cardinal Dougherty presented a resolution to the hierarchy that "the Unity Octave be held throughout all the dioceses in the United States." The Octave is observed from 18-January 25, and a plenary indulgence has been granted on the first or last day under the usual conditions.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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