Spirituality
Increasing Mass attendance in an era of religious decline
With fewer people coming to church, parishes are asking how to transform empty pews into full houses of worship. Our partner Catholic News Service looks at the statistics, and offers suggestions for rekindling liturgical participation.
War, hunger, ‘cultural colonization’ are forms of persecution, pope says
Persecution is the work of the devil, and while anti-Christian persecution is evident in many parts of the world, the devil also is attacking the image and likeness of God present in many other people as well, Pope Francis said.
Mass attendance is down again — but among whom?
An ongoing Gallup poll has long tracked the decline, which is more complex than mere numbers suggest. However, the solution is relatively straightforward, if we choose to live out our calling as Catholics.
Some parishes across U.S. show growth, enthusiasm among members
Despite a national decline in Mass attendance, several growing congregations offer both hope and insight for evangelization.
How to increase Mass attendance
While the reasons people do (or don't) come to church aren't always clear, parishes can take practical steps to make Sunday liturgies more inviting.
Holiness means living with hope, not doing extraordinary things
While the call to live like a Christian is "the same as saying to live 'like a saint,'" it does not mean "having a face like on a prayer card," the pope said.
The mystery of the Trinity invites us into a relationship of love
The triune nature of God -- Father, Son and Holy Spirit -- transcends human intellect, and can only be glimpsed through signs and symbols, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior. Through Christ, we enter into this profound reality as children of God.
Readings of the Holy Mass – Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with these resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
Cheating workers out of just wages, benefits is mortal sin, pope says
Jesus did not mince words when he said, "Woe to you who are rich," after listing the Beatitudes as written according to St. Luke, the pope said in a morning homily.
‘Lead us not’ into sausage on Ash Wednesday
Father Ken Doyle replies to two letter writers who wonder about problematic words in the Lord's Prayer and what happens if one forgets about the Lenten abstinence from meat halfway through breakfast.