A Holy Family for Us All
Much of what we believe about Jesus of Nazareth testifies to his uniqueness. Divine, Son of God, miracle worker, healer, wise teacher. But on the Feast of the Holy Family we are reminded of how much he held in common…
Tag Joe Sinasac
The Immaculate Conception’s Special Place in Our Hearts
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8) is one of the most revered celebrations in the Church year. Though overshadowed by Advent and the looming Christmas festivities, it nonetheless reflects the enduring love and veneration of the people of God…
Turning to Christ: Pope Francis’ Invitation to the Church
Peter is one of my favourite saints and gospel figures. He is very human—impetuous, sometimes slow on the uptake, given to rash action and occasionally weak. But Jesus chooses him to be his “rock”, the one who would lead his…
A Persistent Faith
A mature Christian is someone who does what needs to be done. Through hard times when God seems absent and the soul feels empty, the mature Christian continues to keep faith and carry on. I have to credit Fr. Ron…
New Books for Teachers
August is a deceptive time of year. On the surface, the lazy, hazy days of summer appear to reign supreme. But for many of us, there is a subtle change of consciousness as we recharge our reserves of energy and…
April 2014: A Month to Remember
This April will be a memorable month for Catholics around the world. Along with Easter, we will be celebrating two special canonizations and the publication of the first book by Pope Francis for the general public. On April 27, Divine…
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 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…
Feast of The Chair of Peter
Today, Feb. 22, is no mere Saturday in Ordinary Time. It was no doubt chosen by Pope Francis as the date for his first consistory to install new members into the College of Cardinals because it is the Feast of…
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…