Courageous Fragility
“When the Lord looks at our fragility, he invites us to take care of it not with fear but with courage. “Don’t be afraid, I have overcome the world!” (Jn 16:33) “I am with you always until the end of…
Category Christian Living
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…
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…
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…
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…
Cultivate Your Prayer Life This Lent!
It’s hard to take time out for Lent these days. We’re surrounded by constant distractions: getting the kids out the door for school, fielding calls and emails at work, finding time to get the laundry done and take the dog…
Your Faith Has Made You Well
Sickness can turn our lives upside down, whether we are the ones who are ill or whether we are offering support and solace to a suffering loved one. Serious illness is not only frustrating but also frightening, because it is…
Prepare for Lent!
One of the great benefits of working for a publisher is getting a first look at many remarkable books well before they go to press. This year, I am particularly impressed by many of the titles we recently released just…
Conversion: A Lifelong Process
The work of Carvaggio, the master Renaissance artist, proves a picture really is worth a thousand words. His powerful painting, Conversion on the Way to Damascus, has forever cemented in popular culture that notion that St. Paul was riding a…
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
“That they may all be one.” To Christians around the world, this prayer of Jesus (John 17.21) is something of a mantra at this time of year. From Saturday, Jan. 18, to Sunday, Jan. 26, our churches will echo with…