Commentaries
In praise of middle children
Patience and empathy are traits of those skilled negotiators who grew up between the oldest and youngest kids, and they are the kind of social experts we need to make our country great again, writes Greg Erlandson.
A month to pray, respect and remember — for life
After speaking publicly about infertility, miscarriage and infant loss, Laura Kelly Fanucci can't forget the words of other women who have told her of their loss. Respect Life Month is a perfect time to remember these women and their children.
A plea from the brokenhearted laity
In addition to the harm to victims of sexual abuse, another injury is the deep gash inflicted on the church with the rupture in trust, writes Carolyn Woo, who invites church leaders to engage with lay people face to face.
Wanted: Saints (like you) to rebuild the church
We marvel today at how far-reaching were the reforms of revered medieval saints for the church. After this past scandalous summer, an editorial argues we all have the opportunity to become the new generation of saintly reformers of the church.
Choice to abort grandchild tearing apart husband and wife
Deacon Paul and Helen McBlain offer clear yet sensitive advice to a couple divided about the abortion of their first grandchild. The husband is horrified over the abortion and distraught over his wife's indifference.
It’s one thing after another, if we’re fortunate
Father Eugene Hemrick sees the big picture of progress: doing good leads to mercy, and that to joy, and more goodness. Our world is filled with bighearted people practicing that progression of love that counters hardheartedness.
A plan for negligent bishops?
A five-point policy for investigating and removing a bishop anywhere in the world was approved two years ago by Pope Francis. An editorial wonders when the policy will be employed, for the sake of justice.
Final thoughts on the eve of youth synod
If the synod fathers don't lose focus and succumb to ecclesial infighting, they might not fumble a big opportunity to address often-overlooked young people, who are critical for the church's future.
Valuing truth over faction
In the Judge Kavanaugh hearing process, Democrats and Republicans share blame for putting party before truth, writes Richard Doerflinger. Politics seeking common truth, not power, leads to true freedom.
Puerto Rico’s recovery is not a remote concern
A year after Hurricane Maria caused almost 3,000 deaths and billions of dollars in damage, the U.S. territory still faces a long road to full restoration.