Built on God’s Word
“God does not want a house built on stone but on faithfulness to his word and to his plan.” -Pope Francis, A Year with Pope Francis: Daily Reflections from His Writings
Month March 2014
Sunday Reflection: Instruction Manual for the Life of Faith
Today’s readings serve as a kind of instruction manual in how to lead a life of faith. The psalm, for example, lays out the starting point of faith, reminding us of the importance of being receptive to the Word of…
The Logic of Salvation History
“Let it be said without irreverence: there is no one more inefficient than God. Consider the lack of logic in his investment and in the purpose of that spending: sacrificing his Son for a sinful and ungrateful humanity, past and…
Journeying with Catechumens
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: parishes with RCIA programs are incredibly blessed – and particularly so during Lent – because the presence of those seeking entry into the Church re-energizes the entire community. It’s not uncommon…
Pope Francis and the Church of Mercy
It’s probably the most famous seagull in the world. You might remember. A year ago today, people filled the square in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, waiting for the election of a new pope. Millions more watched from…
The Necessary Ingredients for True Dialogue
“Listening, acceptance of failures and mistakes, admission of errors, in short, assuming our weakness, are indeed the necessary ingredients for a dialogue in search of the truth leading us all to build a common project.” -Pope Francis, A Year with Pope…
The Cost of Discipleship
“I distrust a charity that costs nothing and does not hurt.” Those were the words of Pope Francis in his message for Lent 2014. He recalls that true adherence to the Gospel should have a real, felt impact on our…
We Begin Our Sacred Journey
Return to the Lord your God with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; rend your hearts. (Joel 2.12-13) Historically, Lent is rooted in solidarity with the final stages of conversion of those who will be baptized at…
Shrove Tuesday
On a day popularly known as Pancake Tuesday, it’s safe to assume what will be on the menu in many Catholic houses across the country today. The Tuesday preceding the beginning of Lent is known by many names, all reflecting…