Embracing the missionary call of Pope Francis to reach the peripheries
If anyone had told me when I was ordained a priest on June 1, 1978, that 32 years later I would be ordained a bishop, I would have assured them it would never happen.
Category: Columns
20 ways for busy people to converse with God
Boisterous children, unwashed dishes, office deadlines and a cozy bed at the end of a long day — all of these can call to us more loudly than the quiet … Learn More
How to raise your kids into faithful adults
“I did all the things,” said Carli, mom of four grown children who have stopped practicing the Catholic faith. “We went to Mass as a family. We sacrificed to send them to Catholic school. … Learn More
Reaching out in faith: What is the church’s position on cremation?
Q: What is the position or rule of the church concerning cremation? (Indiana) A: There is a short answer to your question in Paragraph 2301 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, … Learn More
Into the desert with St. Anthony of Egypt
The invitation that Jesus gave to the rich young man in the Gospel of Matthew to “go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you shall have … Learn More
We need to participate in politics for the common good
In this time of political uncertainty, it’s tempting to be cynical about the motivations and tactics of politicians and to want to disengage from politics.
Those who sing pray twice
You’ve seen those “bulletin bloopers.” I enjoy them. Here’s one: “The topic for next week’s sermon will be ‘What will hell be like? Come early and listen to the choir.’” … Learn More
Inspiring stories of the human spirit that emerge with the Olympics
In recent days, the eyes of sports lovers have been turned toward Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. I have to admit that the Olympics excited me much more … Learn More
What Mother Teresa actually said about home
You may recognize these oft-quoted words from St. Teresa of Kolkata: “What can you do to promote world peace? Go home and love your family.” Beautiful, right? Except — does … Learn More
A fondness for St. Martha
Martha, Martha, Martha. I have always had a fondness in my heart for St. Martha. Alas, because she made one complaint recorded in scripture she has been forever remembered as … Learn More