Popes’ deaths give insights into how to prepare to meet God (Ordinary Time)
As 2022 came to an end, so too the earthly life of Pope Benedict XVI drew to its close. “Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light … Learn More
Category: Columns
Why confess to a priest? What if it’s been a long time? (Column)
Q: Why must I confess to a priest, when I can just talk to God? (Newark, New Jersey) A: Jesus told his Apostles: “Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, … Learn More
Christmas story in a new light (Ordinary time)
The most ordinary of pictures hung in the foyer of my parent’s home. It was, to be sure, a picture of extraordinary people – a muted, faded depiction of Mary holding … Learn More
Cherish all the days of Christmas (Ordinary time)
This past year, several couples near and dear to me welcomed new infants to their delighted families. Each time, I wrote a note to welcome the child, congratulate the parents, … Learn More
Follow Mary’s example and draw close to Jesus
In his latest newsletter, Cardinal Tobin points out that God’s closeness to us is seen most perfectly in Mary, the virgin mother of Jesus Christ.
Advent: Sacred beauty comes in all shapes and sizes (Ordinary Times)
It happens every year. I am an overly avid collector of Christmas tree ornaments. All year, they stay stashed away on shelves in the closet, crammed in storage boxes in the … Learn More
Advent: Seeking the light (Ordinary Times)
When I was a child, astronomy fascinated me. I was stunned to learn that the light gleaming from the stars I saw was actually ancient light that had left those stars … Learn More
Cardinal Tobin reflects on Advent as a time of profound hope
My dear sisters and brothers in Christ, Advent is a time of longing and of profound hope. We long for justice, peace, and unity among all members of God’s family. … Learn More
Pope Francis: ‘Please be pacifists’
During his conversation with journalists on his flight back to Rome from his recent pastoral visit to Bahrain, Pope Francis shared his thoughts on many of the world’s current human-made … Learn More
Advent: Move toward Christmas peace by sharing the burdens (Ordinary Times)
Several years ago, I was standing in a checkout line behind two women deep in conversation. I couldn’t help overhearing that one was recently widowed and struggling to adjust to … Learn More