Commentaries

Excitement keeps building for papal visit next year

News of Pope Francis’ visit to Philadelphia is pumping a new vibrancy into this archdiocese and this city, writes Melissa Squarcia Fordyce. He will drive home an important message not just for Philadelphians but for the entire world: family matters.

While running to meet Christ, keep an eye on the poor

As we look for Christ in the least of his brothers and sisters during Advent, we should work to improve society for the common good, writes Amy Hill of the Pa. Catholic Conference.

Widowhood and Christmas

As I head toward my second Christmas as a widower, I now know the challenges begin with Halloween.

New immigration rule is too little, too late

Father Gus Puleo writes that President Obama’s recent order does a little for only a third of the 12 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., but it doesn’t address the overall issue. And the rule may be fleeting.

‘I’m sorry,’ and other words for Advent

True words of apology can begin the process of forgiveness and healing, writes Maureen Pratt on the cusp of Advent. She can't imagine "my bad" making it into the sacrament of penance.

St. Anne, grandmother of her savior

John Garvey is excited about a unique exhibit of art about Mary. In one painting, Mary sits beside her mother and between them they hold Jesus, who leans back and looks over his shoulder at his grandmother.

The best Christmas deal is free

Black Friday sales have begun already, and thus begins too much running around during a season that's supposed to bring us peace. Father Eugene Hemrick suggests an antidote: Daily Mass.

Husband’s a spender, wife’s a saver: What do they do?

Deacon Paul and Helen McBlain aren't concerned as much about a couple's spending habits -- though they call for better communication -- as on emphasizing people (children especially) over things.

Please, it’s for a good cause

Father William Byron knows it is not easy to ask for money but doing so is essential. He advises fundraisers to remember that among donors, it is the heart that gives, fingers just let go.

How to stop cyber bullying right now

Karen Osborne writes it's time for everyone to stop participating in online harassment. Don't share someone's personal information that isn't yours, or say and write hurtful things about other people.