Cardinal Tobin: We are comforted, and made uncomfortable, by the Lord’s coming again
In this season of joy, we become aware once again that God is closer to us than we dare admit.
Category: Columns
John the Baptist prepares us for the Lord’s coming
The baptism of John is a symbol of the much more powerful sacrament that Jesus institutes, a baptism of unquenchable fire and the Holy Spirit.
Longing for a politics of compassion and love
We have just concluded another difficult election season, one that threatened to divide us as a nation rather than uniting us.
The Paradox of Ordinary Time
Every year, as Advent and Christmas approach, I seem to have the same conversation with one of my students. When I ask how the semester is wrapping up, invariably, one … Learn More
Mary, the Saints, and the Universal Call to Holiness
Last week, the Church’s liturgical calendar invited us to celebrate The Solemnity of All Saints on November 1st and The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed on November 2nd.
Reflections on the 16th Synod of Bishops: Embracing Synodality and the Mission of the Church
For the past several weeks, I have been immersed in prayer, attentive listening and dialogue as part of the second and final session of the 16th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops that is being held here in the Vatican.
Mary, mother of compassion and tenderness
During the month of October, the Blessed Virgin Mary is honored under the title Our Lady of the Rosary.
Reaching out in faith: Why do Catholics emphasize the body more than the blood?
Q: I’ve often wondered why Catholics emphasize the Eucharist more than the wine, as the wine is not offered at Communion time. Jesus said to do both in remembrance of … Learn More
Embracing Synodality, missionary discipleship
On Sunday, September 29, the Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, the three archangels named in Sacred Scripture, participants in the 2024 Synod of Bishops arrive in Rome.
Padre Pio is beloved but most people misunderstand why
When I think about the saints most beloved by modern Catholics, Padre Pio tops the list. His weathered face and brown Capuchin habit are iconic. His remarkable personal story, his strong-willed … Learn More