Spirituality
Mysticism and the modern believer
Mysticism is essentially a profound communion with God and his creation. In this series of articles, we look at how the mystical experience is as relevant today as it was in earlier ages.
Embracing (if not understanding) what mystics share with us
St. Teresa of Avila's mystical experiences defy worldly logic, but open the door for all to encounter God more deeply.
Another look at cellphones in church
Father Doyle takes a second look at mobile devices in Mass, and agrees that several prayer apps can help one prepare more fully for the liturgy. He also reassures a reader that her daughter was validly baptized, despite the priest's subsequent suicide.
God’s perfect love drives out all fear of abandonment
Sin, heartbreak, and death leave us frightened and alone. As Msgr. Joseph Prior explains, Christ reveals the Father's perfect love for us, which transcends all isolation and fear, leading us to new and joyous life.
Readings of the holy Mass – Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with the resources below from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
There’s no place like heaven, even if it isn’t a ‘place’
A reader is distressed over Father Ken Doyle's earlier explanation of the afterlife, sans the golden gate. It's a misreading of his advice, the priest assures, because he wants to get to heaven, too.
Rosary prayer unites life with Christ, pope says in video message
"This simple prayer, in fact, helps us to contemplate all that God in his love has done for us and for our salvation and helps us understand that our life is united to Christ's," the pope said in a video message June 18 to pilgrims of the Ta Pinu Marian Shrine in Gozo, Malta.
Understanding Dad: A Father’s Day reflection
Fatherhood -- like all parenthood -- is a vocation, a call from God. We look at a father's complex and multifaceted role, examine references to fatherhood in the Bible and hear from fathers today.
Like any vocation, fatherhood is tough, fulfilling and a mystery
Skip the platitudes of fatherhood: Fathers are real and imperfect people who, worn down by fatigue or worry, make mistakes. They offer committed love over the years, and it changes them.
Dads teach best through their example, reliance on Christ
Paul Senz offers the stories of two dads: one who relies on Christ the Servant as his model, and another who knows his personal example teaches children more about the Catholic faith than by words.