Commentaries
Giving thanks for Thanksgiving
A painful root canal recently inspired Greg Erlandson to reflect on his many blessings. Such gratitude is needed more than ever in a time of fear, hostility and scandal.
Thanksgiving invites us to heal divisions, live in charity
Finding gratitude for all God has provided, especially in the midst of crises in our world and our church, helps us to transcend selfishness and serve one another.
Say an ‘Ave’ for Ireland, now embracing a culture of death
After repealing its constitutional ban on abortion, the Irish government is now working to compel medical providers -- including Catholic health care systems -- to perform abortions, writes John Garvey.
Remembering a radical Catholic with gratitude
November, which kicks off the holiday season and its excess, is a good time to remember Dorothy Day, writes Effie Caldarola. A devout Catholic and social activist, Day challenged the church to live out the Gospel fully.
Path for church reform goes through Rome
Although the U.S. bishops' meeting did not result in urgent church reforms, some progress was made, writes Greg Erlandson. Dialogue between the bishops and the Vatican continues, with both sides seeking action.
Vocation programs show Power of the Priesthood
The director of the archdiocesan vocations office reports on efforts to raise awareness of people's calling to religious life, through archdiocese-wide programs and a moving new video on one priest, Father Doug McKay.
Immigration rules and the law of love
Gina Christian, a descendant of hard-working immigrants, knows Jesus stands with migrants. He awaits the compassion of citizens, that he might say, “I was … a stranger and you welcomed me.”
Divine Mercy heals victims of abuse, and perpetrators
Msgr. Ralph Chieffo has spiritually guided victims and perpetrators of child abuse. Once they let go of anger and sadness, the divine love of Jesus can bless them with peace and the ability to make amends.
Use your words to share, and witness to, your faith
Parents can powerfully shape the faith of children at any age, writes Laura Kelly Fanucci. By speaking openly about their spiritual path, mothers and fathers can serve as models for a relationship with God.
Catholics have a moral duty to fight anti-Semitism
Rejecting gun violence is only the first step in rooting out this ancient evil, says an editorial. The church must move past empty gestures and challenge "deranged ideologies" that flourish in a toxic political culture.