Commentaries
The problem is not just whom we elect, but how we vote
The failures of the current political environment are linked to gerrymandering, says a guest editorial. Legislative redistricting is complex but the health of U.S. democracy demands attention to its electoral mechanics.
Sacraments conferred by laicized priests, bishops still valid
Christ offers grace through the sacraments to the person of good faith receiving them, so they are not invalidated by a sacramental minister who is no longer a priest, says a New Jersey theologian.
Bill in Pa. House would prevent Down syndrome ‘extermination’
Al Gnoza tells of a measure that would bar abortions for Down syndrome babies. Said one young woman at last week's rally, “I have Down syndrome, but it will not stop me from a living a life with a purpose.”
After the crisis, Catholics ask ‘To whom shall we go?’
The clerical sexual abuse crisis has caused many Catholics to ask if they want to remain in the church, writes Elise Italiano Ureneck. That question raises an even more important one: what is the church, and can we embrace it in all of its humanity, divinity and "messy grace"?
Mary as an antidote to digital distraction
Our devices have become pacifiers for both children and adults, writes Brett Robinson. As mediator and model, the Blessed Mother helps increase our spiritual bandwidth for a true connection with God.
Humanity starting to wane as robots rise
Members of the Pontifical Academy for Life are considering how human kindness to the old is substituted with robotic strokes and a lie, and how romantic love is giving way to virtual avatars.
Spring cleaning and soul cleansing
Decluttering experts abound, but the real work of simplifying our lives requires a moral inventory, writes Effie Caldarola. Lent is a good time to examine our consumption habits, which have profound impact on the environment and on society's marginalized.
Giving up Lenten sacrifices? Not so fast
While some Christians eschew giving up meat during Lent, John Garvey still likes to eat the Filet-o-Fish sandwich. He knows the wisdom, and Christ's instructions, in welcoming modest penitential practices.
Solidarity with a mother grieving her dead son
Hosffman Ospino tells of how Hispanic women hurry to church on Holy Saturday morning to meditate on Mary, whose son Jesus died unjustly, and with all mothers who grieve their children, dead or alive.
Winter’s chill and the loss of a friend
The passing of the bleak winter season comes with a heavy heart for Greg Erlandson, mourning the death of Bob Lockwood, a giant in Catholic communications. Even approaching death, Bob's hope lay in the resurrection.