Commentaries
Get busy on Fridays before Year of Mercy ends
Pope Francis has turned heads with his public witness on Mercy Fridays, and columnist Effie Caldarola suggests we could all follow his example by practicing a work of mercy each week during this special year.
Bishop Ricardo Ramirez’s view on the power, and gifts, of the poor
Moises Sandoval reflects on a new book by his friend and retired bishop on the "Emergence of the Latino in the Church and in Society." Both men know that immigrants have always been a boon for America.
The campaign to repeal the Hyde Amendment
The amendment was passed in 1976 because neither party thought taxpayers should be forced to pay for abortions. Even though 62 percent of Americans still agree, the Democratic Party's platform now calls for overturning Hyde.
Toward a better party platform, for everyone
Father Eugene Hemrick proposes a political platform for both Republicans and Democrats that focuses more on the quantum leaps in creativity in our lifetimes, and less on character assassination.
Both left and right misread Pope Francis’ warning on gene modification
The pope inseparably links preservation of the environment and defense of human life, writes John Garvey. If we rely on media reports only from commentators we agree with we may miss the truth of Francis' writings.
Four ways to avoid falling into a computer hacker’s traps
Scams are as old as humanity, but today's hi-tech scammers use new deceptions to waste your time and money. Maureen Pratt offers some tips from personal experience to protect good people from bad actors.
Moving on after a relationship comes to an end
In his On the Record column, Charlie Martin listens to OneRepublic's new song "Wherever I Go." There are no painless ways to get over a romantic breakup, but the wise step is to go slowly with a new relationship at the start.
Reading, a social good
Americans are reading more than they used to, according to America magazine. But much work is needed to close the socioeconomic gap among readers, and to foster the consumption of literature.
Madam Clinton’s plan for free college tuition has a glaring omission
Hillary Clinton wants to limit college tuition assistance to students who choose public higher education, excluding all church-related institutions and other private schools. Jesuit Father William Byron is not with her on that plan.
Millennials renew commitment to care for our common home
During this Season of Creation we are all called to reflect on the beauty of God's handiwork while renewing our commitment to protect the earth and its people. Some young people are taking actions to protect the environment.