Spirituality
What deacons do is still news to some
Almost a half-century after the permanent diaconate was restored, some people are surprised to see a deacon preach. Father Ken Doyle explains the roles of these ordained men.
It all adds up: Little acts of love and kindness equal holiness, pope says
All Christians are called to holiness and to take little steps each day to be more loving, Pope Francis said today. Holiness does not mean "closing your eyes and making the face of a plastic statue," he said.
Pope Francis warns against a ‘spirituality of ease’
Christians must guard against a "spirituality of ease" and putting up appearances, and respond to the constant call of Jesus to conversion, said Pope Francis.
God’s kingdom grows through everyday holiness, pope says
While people may want spectacular signs from God, Pope Francis said, most often God's kingdom is growing in quiet, hidden ways, for example in a family that struggles financially but is rich in love and cares for one another.
Not so fast, Father
Father Ken Doyle responds to the parishioner who sees the priest-celebrant at Mass recess from the church quickly after Mass, taking the congregation with him -- while the choir is still singing.
Reader wonders: Is it time to find a new parish?
Father Ken Doyle advises two things for a reader who has a new pastor who's making liturgical life hard: Talk to the priest first, and be ready to find a parish that best suits one's spiritual needs.
Pope: Don’t be afraid of critics; seek out, share Gospel with sinners
God isn't afraid of getting his hands dirty, being inconvenienced or even scorned because he will do whatever it takes to save everyone from sin, Pope Francis said in a morning homily.
Devil is real and must be fought with armor of truth, pope says
Christian life is a constant battle against the devil, who is not the stuff of legend but really exists, Pope Francis said in a morning homily. People need faith to go forward and they need to know "that it is God defending us, to resist the devil's temptations," he said.
Mom wants help finding right parish for gay daughter’s family
Father Ken Doyle answers a question about finding a parish that will welcome a woman, her partner and their son. He also responds to the matter of when and how to talk about abortion with children.
Don’t be bad Christians, people may think atheism is better, pope says
The way Christians behave can either help and inspire others, or turn them away from ever following Jesus, Pope Francis said.