Commentaries
A friend’s journey home
Moises Sandoval reflects on the death of a friend, who believed one of the gifts Hispanic Catholics bring to the church is the ability to celebrate life, no matter how bleak and discouraging the times may be.
Confirmation is a ‘yes’ to life in the church, not ‘I’m done’
Karen Osborne wishes she had a nickel for every time she's heard teens and parents vow it's the end of church-going after confirmation. But the sacrament isn't about leaving, it's arriving at adulthood with God.
When nature reminds us of Easter’s promise
Last month Maureen Pratt saw the browned out effects of California's drought, but by Easter, the valley had sprung into a lush, green landscape that served as a metaphor and sign of hope.
Her job raises matters of control and trust in marriage
Deacon Paul and Helen McBlain address the issue of control in a marriage with the case of a wife whose part-time job requires late nights working with a single man in his apartment. Her husband has a problem with that.
Pa. legislation aims to lift statute of limitations
Lawmakers are considering a bill that could lead to the closure of parishes, schools and ministries of today’s Catholics, who are not responsible for sexual abuse that occurred decades ago, writes a spokesperson for the Pa. Catholic Conference.
Welcoming the stranger to our community
If we look around, we might all find a way to make a small dent in seeing the world through a broader lens, as Effie Caldarola's busy and welcoming friend does.
Focusing on the common good
Just as ignoring any weak point on a tire could lead to its collapse, so it is with society -- any poor social condition threatens the common good of all, writes Jesuit Father William Byron.
Discovering the most important goal of all
Of all the goals in his life, columnist Erick Rommel finds contentment as the truest and simplest, a lesson taught by people near the end of their time.
Mary shows model of fighting the paralysis of terrorism
Mary is a beautiful example of looking for Christ, even as others want us to bring life to a halt or make us fearful and suspicious of one another, writes Father Eugene Hemrick.
‘The Catholic Catalogue’ tells of life lived with faith
CatholicPhilly.com editor Matthew Gambino reads through a new "field guide" for Catholic culture with prayers, family crafts and other tales of living the Catholic faith today.