Spirituality
Start a new family tradition this Advent
In an age where we can get almost everything we want in an instant, Advent is wonderfully old-school. It's a four-week pause amid the chaos of the Christmas season to think about the true Light of the World.
Work hard to prepare the way — it is worth it
The human race had been waiting even longer for the Messiah's first coming than his second. His mission to immerse us in the power and wisdom of God, to make us new people, is worth preparing for.
Advent has changed with the centuries but its focus remains on Christ
Since its fourth-century origins in Western Europe, the season of Advent has undergone various configurations. Yet it still directs our hearts and minds to the return of the risen Christ into our world.
Christ, our king, shows us how to love
Jesus emptied himself in love on the cross. We are called to do the same, for our king is not a ceremonial figure as kings are today. He is a king to be followed in every aspect of our lives, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior.
Readings of the holy Mass – The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with the resources below from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
When referring to God, his and hers has no meaning
Clear Catholic teaching states that in no way is God in man's image. Yet the Roman Missal appropriately uses masculine pronouns to refer to God. Father Ken Doyle explains the language conundrum to a reader.
Looking back on the Year of Mercy
The Year of Mercy, which concludes Sunday. Nov. 20, is not a "one and done" event. It was set aside as a period of intense training intended to shape how we would live the rest of our lives. See our package of resources.
Making mercy a way of life
After the holy year ends, keep it alive in two ways, suggests catechist Daniel Mulhall: continue to reflect on God's merciful love; and instead of judging people for their faults, recognize them as people in need of mercy.
A Holy Year for contemplating the face of mercy
Because mercy must be put into action, mercy can be seen and touched. "Wherever someone is reaching out, asking for a helping hand in order to get up, this is where our presence … must be," Pope Francis has said.
Pope Francis’ missionaries of mercy reflect on experience
When Pope Francis commissioned his missionaries of mercy -- 1,000 priests sent out especially to hear sacramental confessions -- he reminded them, "Let us not forget: Before us is not a sin, but a contrite sinner."