Spirituality
If We Grow Our ‘Talents,’ We Will Share Our Master’s Joy
A "talent" from God to which Jesus refers in this Sunday's Gospel represents 20 years' wages. Multiplying God's abundant gifts in our lives leads to new life, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior.
The Race Toward Heaven Requires Faith and Endurance
Just as a race requires endurance and determination, our journey toward eternal life calls us to remain faithful, vigilant, and ready to meet the Lord, writes Msgr. Prior.
Thanks to the Gloria, We Don’t Have to Invent Praise for God From Scratch
Father Patrick Brady can be forgiven for confusing St. Hilary of Poitiers with Harry Potter. The saint nicknamed the Hammer was instrumental in bringing the angels’ song of praise into the Catholic Mass, though it took centuries of strife to do so.
All Saints Day Points to End of Our Life’s Journey: Heaven’s Eternal Love
The continual transformation that takes place within our hearts through the struggles and joys of life prepares us for being in God’s presence, where we will see God "as He is,” writes Msgr. Joseph Prior on the Solemnity of All Saints.
Love of God Is Foundation of Our Love for All Humanity
Msgr. Joseph Prior explains how in this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus avoids the trap set for him by a scholar. He shows that the perfect love of the Holy Trinity, extended to everyone, is the model for our boundless love of neighbor.
‘Give to Caesar,’ But Keep God at the Center of Life
Human governance is necessary even when it isn't perfect, explains Msgr. Joseph Prior. He unpacks the meaning of the command of Jesus to "give to God what is God's" -- which is to trust God and assent to His will.
Kyrie Seeks God’s Mercy Down the Road That We Must Travel
When we get into a mess through the darkness of the night, only God can fix it, writes Father Patrick Brady. A misconstrued 1985 song lyric and a mysterious Greek prayer of the liturgy lead us to an ancient and new encounter with God.
Accepting the Invitation to God’s Feast
This week’s readings remind us that God invites all people to share in the heavenly feast, calling us to respond with gratitude, faith, and lives rooted in Christ.
God Loves Us With Persistent, Immeasurable Love
Msgr. Joseph Prior can point to definitions of love in a dictionary and signs of loving families, spouses and friends. But it's the life-giving sacrifice of Jesus on the cross that best shows the love of God for everyone.
Gospel Calls Us to Live God’s Way, the Way of Mercy
This Sunday's Gospel parable -- two sons are called, only one acts -- invites us to ponder God’s mercy and His invitation to repentance. It calls us to reflect on our attitude toward God’s gracious call and show mercy to others.