Commentaries
Religious Millennials get creative in a world of grief
Vibrant, faithful Catholic life confronts our collective sorrow and binds us together in a web of relationships, says Father Eric Banecker, who shows how young sisters are embracing not hollowness, but holiness.
Do we really believe in the Real Presence?
Whether or not a recent survey on Catholics' belief in the Eucharist was flawed, Greg Erlandson thinks surveys underscore the need for adult faith formation. We're paying the price for insufficient religious education.
Walking by a Catholic church, where a eucharistic miracle resides
Elise Italiano Ureneck compares the wonder of a miracle in Italy with the results of a Pew study showing Catholics' misunderstanding of the Eucharist. Our culture's focus on image over reality is one cause.
That ‘milestone’ birthday? It’s just a number
Maureen Pratt won't accept preconceived notions of what her new age means. Inspired by people past and present who acted on God’s direction no matter their age, she is grateful for this time, whatever the number.
The joy of a news-less vacation
More and more people tell news junkie Greg Erlandson that they just can’t take the news anymore. Going on a news fast at the beach with his family, he finds gratitude for simple pleasures -- and less worrying.
Take a deep look into the income gulf called Greed
Economic disparity is enormous, observes Effie Caldarola. Each of us, regardless of income, must examine our own lifestyles and desires. We mustn't idolize the rich but invite everyone to the table, together.
What do mass shootings have in common?
The "transmission vector" for the epidemic of shootings in America is the fantasy of murder, says an editorial. Fueled by modern communications, these fantasies powerfully feed imaginations, with predictable results.
10 years later, how the blessed garden has grown
Immaculate Heart Sister Mary Henrich sees the fruit of seeds planted in the Lord's vineyard: visiting the orphanage where she served in Ecuador, the children have grown into wonderful, successful adults.
Empty pews and the future of Catholic parishes
Statistical signs of a sharp downturn in religious affiliation, especially among the young, were once unthinkable but no longer. Father Thomas Dailey charts the current decline, and some paths forward.
Catholic talk, and silence, about immigrants
Speaking about migrants and refugees is risky business these days, but remaining silent and failing to affirm the human dignity of every immigrant also has consequences, writes Hosffman Ospino.