Spirituality
Don’t look away; be moved by tragedy and help, pope says
Christians, said Pope Francis, must follow Christ's example: look at reality, be moved by it and get close to those in need with the aim of restoring their dignity and supporting them so they can live their lives in a dignified way.
On Catechetical Sunday, remember we are all disciples on mission
This Sunday, Sept. 17, the church reflects on the vital role of catechists -- those who teach the faith. See our resources on how to know and live the faith so we can share Christ's love with everyone.
You’re on a mission from God — get fired up like the early Christians
Enlightened by the Holy Spirit, the first disciples brought the good news of Christ to the world. See three simple ways you too can be a missionary disciple in today's world.
Get creative — start a ministry and build community
Evangelization often calls for thinking outside the box -- or the barrel, as in the Catholic Beer Club. Identify a community need, such as single people feeling they don't belong, and respond to it, parish leaders say.
Pope Francis invites each of us to become missionary disciples
In "The Joy of the Gospel," the faithful are called to radically share the love of Christ in everyday life. Our journey begins with baptism and continues throughout the places and relationships of our daily lives.
Mercy and forgiveness are essential to life
The parable of the unforgiving servant has real shock value, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior. Through this dramatic example, Jesus challenges us to offer others the same mercy God has shown us.
Readings of the holy Mass – Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
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.
Pope: Cross is the mystery of Christ’s love, not ‘spiritual masochism’
Christians must beware of separating Christ from his humble descent to death and viewing it as a "mystery of tragedy," the pope said at his first early morning Mass after the summer break.
Mom sings ‘Be thou my vision’ to her son, but what does she see?
An old Irish hymn reminds Laura Kelly Fanucci that the Lord is both the source, and the subject, of our spiritual vision. Even in the ordinary things of a home, we behold God if we keep our eyes open.
Incense not a call to the fire department, but to prayer
In his weekly Q&A column, Father Ken Doyle refreshes a Catholic's memory about the use of incense at Mass. He also explains the roles of a parish pastor, and the challenges pastors face.