Latest news with #St.Paul
NBC Sports
01-07-2025
- Sport
- NBC Sports
Twins bring Royce Lewis back from injured list to start series vs. Marlins
MIAMI — The Minnesota Twins reinstated third baseman Royce Lewis from the injured list after a 15-game absence because of a recurrence of the hamstring strain that delayed his season debut. Lewis joined the Twins for the start of a three-game series at Miami. He hurt his left hamstring while running out a grounder in the ninth inning of a game on June 13, a less severe strain than the one he suffered late in spring training. That injury sidelined him for seven weeks, costing him the first 35 games of the season. Lewis went 0 for 8 with one walk on a three-game rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul. Lewis has played in only 182 regular-season games since making his major league debut in 2022, and this year has been the first time the interruption seems to have affected his production. Lewis is batting just .202 with a .585 OPS and two home runs in 30 games this season. He had 32 straight hitless at-bats from May 19 to June 3. Right before his latest setback, though, he had just gotten in a rhythm by going 9 for 20 with a home run and four RBIs in his last six games. The Twins are 18-12 in games Lewis has played in this season, despite his struggle at the plate, and 22-32 without him. The first overall pick in the 2017 draft was limited to 82 games last season by a severe quadriceps strain he suffered running the bases in the opener and later by a groin injury. The previous two years for Lewis were limited by recoveries from successive ACL surgeries.
Winnipeg Free Press
26-06-2025
- Sport
- Winnipeg Free Press
Twins' Royce Lewis to begin rehab assignment for hamstring strain
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota Twins third baseman Royce Lewis will begin a rehab assignment on Friday with Triple-A St. Paul, two weeks after he strained his left hamstring. Lewis will be the designated hitter for the Saints to start, Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Thursday before Minnesota's game against Seattle. Lewis was hurt while running out a grounder on June 13 in a game at Houston, a milder recurrence of the same injury he suffered during spring training that cost him the first 35 games of the season. 'I think he's in a good spot right now,' Baldelli said. 'I think this is what we were probably hoping for when it first happened.' The first overall pick in the 2017 draft was limited to 82 games last season by a severe quadriceps strain he suffered running the bases in the opener and later by a groin injury. The previous two years for Lewis were limited by recoveries from successive ACL surgeries. Lewis has played in only 182 regular-season games since making his major league debut in 2022, and this year has been the first time the interruption seems to have affected his production. Lewis is batting just .202 with a .585 OPS and two home runs in 30 games this season. He had 32 straight hitless at-bats from May 19 to June 3. ___ AP MLB:
Daily Mirror
19-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Spain's smallest holiday island is 'crumbling' with propped-up buildings
Nueva Tabarca is the smallest inhabited island in Spain and sits off the coast of Alicante. It has become increasingly popular with locals, who descend on the tiny strip of land in huge numbers Each day, thousands of tourists descend on a tiny Spanish island that is creaking under the strain. Despite sitting just a few km off the coast of Alicante, and technically being part of the Spanish resort which has long been beloved by British holidaymakers, few non-locals make it to the island of Nueva Tabarca. At 1,800m long and 400m wide, and home to 68 permanent residents, Tabarca is the smallest inhabited island in Spain. It also one with a colourful history, as the location where St. Paul (possibly) disembarked and as a long-time refuge for pirates. In recent years, more and more people have been hopping on Ferry Azul boats that sail there from the mainland, enjoying the shoals of little fish that cluster around its glass sides on the way over. When they get there, they are typically confronted with the same realisation. "It's a lot smaller than I thought. When they said it was a small like, tiny," said Sante, who recently visited Tabarca with his wife. This is a particularly problem as up to 5,000 people descend on Tabarca each day during the high season, swelling the full-time population by 30 times. From 10am to 9pm, the one main street on the island becomes packed with visitors, who leave as quickly as they arrive in the evening. According to Carmen Martí, president of the neighborhood association, "the problem isn't tourists." She recently told El Pais that the much bigger issue is infrastructure. "There are no public restrooms, no shaded areas, tourist attractions, such as the church or the vaults of the wall, are closed, the tower is in ruins," she lamented. Medical assistance on the island is very slim, which is a problem given the lack of lifeguards on the beach for much of the year, and the scorching temperatures. With a surface area barely 15 meters above sea level and no trees other than a few palm trees, there is no shelter from the sun on the island. Carmen says locals have pushed the authorities to help them improve the island, but haven't received much assistance. "We've presented plans for a rest area to the town hall so that young people don't have to eat and rest sitting on the town's sidewalks, but they've ignored it," she said. The issues stem, in part, from the fact that Tabarca falls between two administrations, with several administrative roles on the island lying unfilled for years. That, coupled with its offshore remoteness, means it does not always get the attention locals believe it deserves. They say that municipal infrastructure, offices, warehouses, and even the museum, which is barely 20 years old, are in terrible condition. Roofs are corroded by salt, premises are propped up, and the museum is closed as a precaution. Yet despite all of these issues, and the presence of angry seagulls that have a habit of attacking beachgoers, people continue to come. They do so because of the beautiful beaches and the clear waters, which are protected by Spain's first marine reserve, declared in 1986.
Borneo Post
07-06-2025
- Borneo Post
A family's jubilee pilgrimage to Rome
The four basilicas with Holy Doors in Rome: (Left to right) St. Paul Outside the Walls, St. Mary Major, St. John Lateran, St. Peter's Basilica Across cultures and continents, religious pilgrimages embody the deep yearning of the human soul to connect with the Divine. For countless believers, these sacred journeys are not merely physical treks – they are spiritual quests filled with meaning, sacrifice and profound transformation. In Islam, the Hajj to Mecca is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who are able, symbolising submission to Allah and unity with the global Muslim ummah. Pilgrims retrace the steps of Prophet Ibrahim, shedding worldly attachments and experiencing humility in the presence of God. Similarly, Hindu pilgrims gather in vast numbers at the Kumbh Mela or journey to temples in Varanasi, believing that bathing in sacred rivers cleanses karma and brings liberation. Christians walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain or visit Jerusalem to trace the life of Jesus Christ, finding healing, forgiveness and renewed purpose in life. For many, each step is a prayer, each mile a meditation on Christ's journey of love and sacrifice. Buddhists visit sites like Bodh Gaya, where the Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. These serene pilgrimages invite reflection, mindfulness and a deeper understanding of suffering and compassion. For pilgrims, the journey itself becomes sacred with each hardship endured a testament to their devotion. In every faith, pilgrimages renew hope, deepen identity and bridge the earthly and the eternal. They are stories of love, faith and the timeless pursuit of transcendence. Pilgrimage to Rome In the spring of 2025, my family made a pilgrimage to Rome. We weren't tourists, but pilgrims carrying prayers and longings too deep for words. Many friends have since asked me to share our journey to Rome's Four Holy Doors, perhaps for guidance and a glimpse of the grace we encountered. In Rome, where saints lie beneath marble canopies and time whispers through ancient stones – four great basilicas rise like spiritual lighthouses for the world's 1.4 billion Catholics. Within them are the Holy Doors, ceremoniously opened only during a Jubilee Year, the latest being this year in 2025. These doors offer pilgrims rare encounters with God's boundless mercy, signifying grace, hope and new beginnings. As I reflect and share, my heart fills with gratitude; the spiritual gifts, laughter, anxieties and silent prayers that made this journey unforgettable. To those considering this pilgrimage or simply seeking renewal, I hope our story encourages you. This is a guide to Rome's four major basilicas, and also an invitation to visit the local Holy Doors during this Jubilee Year of Hope. Pilgrimage isn't measured in miles, but in our desire for God. This account is to accompany, showing what's possible on your own sacred path. If Rome feels too far, let these words carry you. Faith moves swiftly when borne by love. Journey with us through these memories, because the spirit of pilgrimage transcends geography, rooted in the love that draw us closer to each other and to God. Whether in Rome or your parish chapel, may these reflections stir your heart toward grace. Pilgrimage Planning: Less Swiss Guard, More Budget Guard Let's start with the practical. Pilgrimage is a spiritual investment but financial prudence is wise. We incorporated our pilgrimage into other family plans, blending faith, family and frugality, 'killing a few birds with one stone'. Retirement certainly helps; no distractions, allowing focus on what really matters. A pilgrimage begins long before takeoff. I researched the four basilicas – their history, saints and relics, using Google, YouTube and Vatican websites. It was also a spiritual sightseeing – faith with context. Modern travel is streamlined: passport, smartphone (and charger!) and credit card with cash becoming obsolete. Group travel helped us save and stay safe. AirBnB, Agoda and offer great stays. Rome has its challenges. Pickpockets and scammers thrive in crowded areas like the basilicas. Stay alert, keep valuables close and look out for one another. Crossing streets is a test of nerves with cars, buses, e-bikes and scooters zipping in every direction. So stay sharp and cautious. Rome's Metro is simple and Uber is an option, especially in group. Ensure someone in your group is 'App-able' for transport and bookings. Every pilgrimage needs a map-reader and a rosary prayer leader. The free, user-friendly Jubilaeum25 App helps you manage bookings for basilicas and events, saving you time at entrances. Security checks are standard and unregistered visitors may face longer queues. Stay hydrated and refill your bottle water at public water fountains. After your pilgrimage, collect your Testimonium – the official Jubilee 2025 certificate – from the Info Point near St. Peter's Square. Personalised with your name, it's a testament of faith renewed and grace received. Our Journey Through the Four Holy Doors of Basilicas We followed a particular sequence in visiting the four Major Basilicas, but there's no fixed order. Grace flows regardless the route you take. Allow each basilica the space it deserves, to absorb its beauty, reflect on its meaning and pray without rush. Rome is a living museum of faith. Let your pilgrimage be a gradual, personal encounter with God, one sacred threshold at a time. My family's pilgrimage to Rome in Jubilee Year 2025 1. St. Paul Outside the Walls Basilica: The Apostle's Monumental Resting Place Our pilgrimage began at the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, where the great Apostle to the Gentiles is buried. This vast, solemn space felt like a sanctuary carved out of time – majestic, quiet and heavy with Saint Paul's enduring voice. The basilica stretches wide, in size and in spirit, bearing the strength of a man who once persecuted but later proclaimed Christ with passion and love. Just beyond the Holy Door, beneath the altar, lies Paul's tomb – his presence felt not only in stone, but in the golden mosaics and bold scriptural inscriptions. Here, we prayed for courage to run our race with endurance, as St Paul did, and to 'keep the faith.' Inside, the silence felt alive, deep and steady like a heartbeat. In that stillness, our family's journey mirrored Paul's: perseverance through trials, openness to renewal and a hope that doesn't give up. We prayed for boldness to live the truth, even if our lives are not free of shipwrecks. As we stepped through the Holy Door, I noticed a tear in my wife's eye – not from sorrow, but perhaps from quiet gratitude: for the road that led us here, and the silent prayers whispered along the way. 2. St. Mary Major Basilica: The Marian Heart of Rome and Final Resting Place of Pope Francis Next, we visited Rome's oldest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary – the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, one of the four major basilicas that stands as a lasting testament to the Catholics deep devotion to Mary. At its heart is the icon 'Salus Populi Romani', venerated for centuries, and especially by the late Pope Francis, who prayed before and after his every apostolic journey. It is fitting that this basilica has become his final resting place – a reflection of his Marian devotion and humble service. To kneel before this icon and pray near his tomb is to witness a powerful bond – love for the Virgin Mary for Catholics and service to her Son. As pilgrims walk beneath the golden mosaics and through centuries-old chapels, they are drawn into the same trust that shaped Mary's fiat and Pope Francis's life. In this sacred space, Mary still draws her children close – and now, one of her most faithful sons rests in her care. Passing through the Holy Door here felt like coming home. We remembered our own mothers. As I lit a candle, I thought of Mary at Bethlehem and Calvary, I pray for my mother and felt again how love always carries both joy and sorrow. There is a good side tour nearby. A short stroll away is the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, built over the home of a saint who cared for persecuted Christians. Its Chapel of St. Zeno glows with Byzantine mosaics, and holds a relic believed to be from the pillar where Jesus was scourged. In its quiet simplicity, it offers a moment of deep, personal reflection far from the crowds, close to the heart. The late Pope Francis' favourite image 'Salus Populi Romani' at St Mary Major Basilica 3. St. John Lateran Basilica: The Pope's Cathedral This is the Rome's true cathedral, the official seat of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope. Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the basilica houses several important relics, including the heads of Saints Peter and Paul, a table believed to be used for the Last Supper and a fragment of the original altar used by Saint Peter. Its façade declares 'Mother and Head of all churches in Rome and the world'. Inside, colossal statues of the apostles seem to walk beside you toward the Holy Door. It's like an architectural catechism, with every column a profession of faith. The vast nave was humbling and inviting. We stood, letting that embrace wash over us as we prayed for unity for the Church, the world, and for the daily struggles of family life: chores, schedules, clashing views. Unity begins with everyday grace, and in that sacred space, we asked for strength to keep choosing it, and constant reconciliation with one another. 4. St. Peter's Basilica: The Rock and a Sacred Encounter with the Shepherd Finally, we arrived at St. Peter's Square in Vatican. The square felt like a spiritual amphitheatre with its colonnades embracing pilgrims from every nation on earth. Entering the Holy Door there was humbling and the silence spoke louder than song. I thought of St Peter, crucified upside down nearby. Standing at his tomb, I felt our family being gently grafted into the rootstock of faith. At the door, our son stood between us – fragile, yet brave. As we walked through, I whispered a father's prayer: raw, wordless trust for his healing. Each step drew us closer to Michelangelo's Pietà, to centuries of Catholic heritage carved in stone, to St. Peter himself. Tears came of awe, gratitude and hope. This basilica became the heart of our pilgrimage. On Easter Sunday, we witnessed Pope Francis celebrate the Resurrection in St. Peter's Square. In his popemobile, frail yet luminous, the Pope blessed the world in his Urbi et Orbi message. The moment was electric, sacred as our children beamed. We didn't know it would be our last time seeing him alive. News of his passing came the next morning, and Easter Sunday took on new meaning, a final glimpse of a beloved shepherd. Two days later, under the scorching sun, we joined thousands to bid farewell. Inside the basilica, kneeling by his body, it felt intimate – a goodbye wrapped in grace. St. Peter's wasn't just a Holy Door. For us, it was a sacred encounter of blessing and final farewell – where joy and sorrow wove together into a lasting memory of love. ( Also read: ) A Moment of Grace: When God Sends His Angels The day my wife and I came to bid farewell to Pope Francis, the sun was merciless, and the queue at St. Peter's stretched endlessly. We arrived at 8:00 am; the basilica doors open at 10:00 am, and our flight was at 6:10 pm. For hours, we inched forward in the heat. Some elderly pilgrims fainted, tempers flared and queue-jumpers tested our patience. Thirsty, exhausted and spiritually stretched, a deeper current ran -reverence, resilience and a shared desire to honour a beloved shepherd. Then came a stranger, Fr. Albert Musinguzi, a cheerful Ugandan priest who offered to take a photo, We exchanged contacts. A small kindness or so we thought. We kept bumping into him all day, like a thread of grace weaving through the crowd. After nearly four hours, we reached the basilica, paid our respects; and my wife and I got 'separated'. In a sea of thousands, my wife vanished, her phone already dead, mine at 10%. Our kids were waiting. We hadn't checked out from our accommodation. I was now a husband lost in church. Panic set in – until grace, in a clerical collar, returned. 'Mary is with me,' Fr. Albert said on his phone. Amidst the chaos, he found her. A divine appointment, not coincidence. We believe God spoke through his presence and compassion through Fr. Albert, our angel in Roman heat. The trials didn't let up thereafter. First, a delayed check-out set our schedule back, throwing the day into disarray. Then, an ATM swallowed one of our cards – an infuriating inconvenience in a foreign country. But the most dramatic blow came next: we missed our flight. The cost of a new ticket was astronomical, and for a moment, it felt like we had fallen from a spiritual high into the chaos of logistical despair. And yet, through all of it, grace endured. Against all odds, we managed to return to London without paying a single penny more. It felt nothing short of miraculous – a quiet reminder that even in the most tangled circumstances, unseen hands can still guide us home. In the storm, we began to see it: small mercies, quiet reassurances, strangers turned helpers. God's grace is never late. It often wears human faces, works through dead phones, speaks softly and renders kindness through angels in plain clothes. Kindred Spirits Along the Way: With youth pilgrims, nuns from Argentina and our human angel, Fr Albert Musinguzi from Uganda. Heartfelt Moments and Family Grace Perhaps, no pilgrimage is complete without laughter, anxieties and unexpected blessings. It drew our family closer, to God and to one another. Amid the basilicas' grandeur, we found something even more beautiful: the quiet companionship of faith. Holding hands in prayer, helping each other up steps, taking turns leading the reflection and prayers – these were the true treasures. As we completed our journey, I realised we hadn't just walked through doors, but thresholds of grace. We carried our intentions, joys, aches and hopes – and laid them at God's feet. We met fellow pilgrims – each with their own story and prayer. What struck us most was the warmth of strangers. We reached out to young people, elderly nuns and weary travelers – and kindness was returned, again and again. Pilgrimage reminds us: hearts open when we do. For me, as husband and father, this was more than symbolic. It was where faith met family – where Rome's timeless beauty embraced the fragile, enduring love we carry for one another. We left with lighter hearts, not because the path was easy, but because mercy met us at every door. If you're discerning a similar journey, Rome's Holy Doors are within reach – and truly transformative. If Rome feels too far, remember your local Holy Doors are sacred too, blessed and open to grace. Go for it. For Catholics, the God who opens Rome's Holy Doors is the same God who opens the door to our hearts, our homes and our daily lives. His mercy knows no borders. May this story stir your spirit and may your pilgrimage, wherever it leads, renew your soul with the quiet joy of walking with God.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Byron Buxton Officially Back
The Minnesota Twins have been among the hotter teams in baseball the past month. They put together a 13-game winning streak and have vaulted themselves to second in the American League Central Division. Despite the winning, there has still been a lack of production from the lineup. Rocco Baldelli's team has been carried by the pitching staff this season and there's always an opportunity to score more runs. Advertisement After suffering a concussion in a collision with teammate Carlos Correa on May 15, the star centerfield is back in the lineup. Minnesota Twins activate Byron Buxton Byron Buxton was placed on the 7-day concussion injured list on May 16. He wound up missing 11 games for the Minnesota Twins but will rejoin the lineup Friday night in Seattle. Carson McCusker was optioned to Triple-A St. Paul following the Twins game Wednesday against the Tampa Bay Rays. He quickly reported to Omaha and played Thursday night. That move opened a roster spot for Buxton, who has traveled with Minnesota on the current road trip. Advertisement Byron Buxton returns as the team leader in fWAR at 1.9. He returns to a .261/.312/.522 slash line with 10 home runs. Aside from this collision, he has been remarkably healthy this season and is running at speeds we haven't seen in years. Hopefully the concussion or any lingering effects don't impact Buxton's overall health. He has played free in the field and on the basepaths this year while enjoying the clean bill of health. Buxton is a perfect 8-for-8 in stolen base attempts. Related: Three Weaknesses the Minnesota Twins Should Address Before MLB Trade Deadline A Minnesota Twins lineup that has been stretched, especially in the outfield, will welcome back their leader with open arms. Matt Wallner on the way for MN Twins too It's not just Byron Buxton that the Minnesota Twins will be getting back this weekend. Slugging outfielder Matt Wallner is expected to join the team on Saturday. He has been on the shelf since April 15 with a hamstring strain. In six Triple-A rehab games Wallner slashed .320/.370/.960 with five home runs. He launched dingers in three-straight games to end his time in St. Paul. Advertisement Wallner will return to a .263/.373/.474 slash line for Minnesota. Prior to his injury he was among the Twins most dangerous hitters. Baldelli will be looking for his corner outfielder to pick up where he left off. A logical option candidate to create room for Wallner is outfielder DaShawn Keirsey Jr. He has provided defense and speed this season, but is batting just .111/.138/.159 through 65 plate appearances.
