Spirituality
The Mass, sacraments and doubts due to clergy sex abuse
Father Ken Doyle answers two questions in his weekly Q&A: Is skipping Mass because of disgust over the scandal OK, and are sacraments administered by defrocked priests valid?
A mother’s hands
Despite pious depictions in art, Mary worked hard as many women living in poverty do, writes Gina Christian. The Mother of God wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty for the kingdom, and neither should we.
Family life is a discipleship of loving service
When we seek to follow Jesus by laying down our lives for each other -- especially in the context of Christian marriage -- the church becomes visible and vibrant, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior.
Readings of the Holy Mass – Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with these resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
Missing – and hitting – the mark on baptism
Gina Christian, a descendant of coal miners, continues to break into the inexhaustible seam of riches that is baptism, a lifelong source of grace that the world needs now more than ever.
Jesus is the lasting treasure we ultimately seek
What we value in life reveals our deepest desires and priorities, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior. By following Christ, we discover the path to true life and eternal joy.
Readings of the Holy Mass – Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with these resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
Devil destroys overtly or slyly by pretending to be a friend, pope says
The devil is more dangerous when he is polite and friendly, persuading people to be "lukewarm" and worldly, than when he shows his true face and blatantly pushes people to sin, Pope Francis said.
Could Judas be forgiven his suicide?
Father Ken Doyle answers a reader's question about what became of Judas -- was he forgiven for betraying Christ? It's conceivable, but the priest does not like Judas' chances.
Letter to a clerical abuse survivor
Sexual abuse survivor Gina Christian urges victims to place Christ, rather than others, at the center of their healing process. The Lord alone can bring one back from the dead.