Spirituality
In Jesus’ Name, Give a Warm, Gentle Welcome to All
The Benedictine Rule of welcoming the stranger, including the "little ones" as Jesus commanded, remains a model for us today, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior in his reflection on this Sunday's Mass readings.
Our Honors for Good Fathers Reflect God’s Intimate Love
On Father's Day, we thank fathers for their love and join them in thanking our heavenly Father for His love which makes theirs possible and powerful, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior.
Like a Shepherd, Christ Lovingly Leads His Flock to Life
Msgr. Joseph Prior explains how sheep who stray from their shepherd are in danger. The imagery of God as shepherd of His flock culminates in Jesus the Good Shepherd, who gives His life for His flock and calls new shepherds for our time.
Grace Transforms Us When We Open Our Hearts to Eucharist
On the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of the Lord, Msgr. Joseph Prior tells how the grace of the eucharistic encounter can change our life, as for St. Carlo Acutis.
As an Eagle Soars, So Too Does the Spirit Lift Christ’s Disciples on Mission
Msgr. Joseph Prior draws a parallel between an eagle lifted to new heights by the unseen wind, and the members of the Church empowered to proclaim the Gospel by the Holy Spirit, whose coming is celebrated at Pentecost this Sunday.
As We Offer Prayers to God, Jesus Offers Himself in Prayer for Us
The "priestly prayer" of Jesus in this Sunday's Gospel shows that prayer is both personal and communal because our relationship with God is both personal and communal. We are united in love by God who is Love, explains Msgr. Joseph Prior.
Through Holy Spirit, Jesus Leads Us in Each New Day
Life's journey is marked by the challenges and gifts of each day, observes Msgr. Joseph Prior. He explains how Jesus remains with us to help reach our goal with confidence.
Divine Physician Comes to Heal Our Broken World of Sin, Fear and Worry
Jesus offers a salve for those troubled by confusion, suffering and grief: “You have faith in God, have faith also in me.” Faith is the path to peace. Faith in God and in His Son is a sure and reliable road to healing, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior.
Our Shepherd, Jesus, Leads Us With Care Toward Heavenly Home
Commenting on this Sunday's Gospel of the Good Shepherd and on Psalm 23, Msgr. Joseph Prior explains the image of a shepherd's care. Jesus embraced suffering and now leads us in love through the gate of divine life with God.
As With Sacred Heart, Symbol of Fire Enflames Us With Compassionate Love
"Our hearts were burning within us," the disciples recount in the Gospel reading for this Sunday, which Msgr. Joseph Prior explains by pointing to a tradition of lighting the fire of faith and hope in the resurrected Jesus.