Commentaries
A guide on how to believe
A recently published document by the Vatican deserves everyone's attention, not just that of theologians, writes Stephen Kent. The practical tome on "spiritual instinct" can be useful as sincere Catholics wrestle with today's questions.
A letter from the past, a lesson for the present
Karen Osborne unearths a letter from her 16-year-old self to her 30-year-old self and finds that life happened while she was busy making plans for something else.
Is God a cop or a midwife? Good question
Columnist Effie Caldarola reflects on her relationship with God -- as the rule enforcer or the guide toward new life -- and what it means for how she lives her life.
On decriminalizing marijuana in Philadelphia
Physicians and the pope are reminding us that marijuana is an evil to be rejected, and Jesuit Father William Byron reminds the City of Philadelphia that a proposed law allowing marijuana use should likewise be rejected.
Spouses trying to find that feeling again
Deacon Paul and Helen McBlain know that even after a few years of marriage, a couple may notice “something is missing,” and they need help to invigorate their relationship. It can be harder for those in a second marriage and their blended families.
Clearing the air around marijuana use
Father Tad Pacholczyk sees the damage done from marijuana use. It's critical to acknowledge these negative effects on people rather than seeking, like drug addicts, to dissociate ourselves from this reality.
How to get up on the right side of the bed
With all the constant bad news from Mother Nature and human nature, it's easy to feel sour, admits Father Eugene Hemrick. What's needed is humility and the saintly art of letting go.
Much has changed since Paul preached to Greeks, not all of it good
Steve Kent retraces the steps of St. Paul in Greece, and after reflecting on the divisions of class and religion, he thinks it is time for a new letter from the Corinthians.
Get angry, but get moving, too
Whether you've got passion for repealing the death penalty or any other issue, columnist Effie Caldarola knows it's not good enough to be upset. You've got to do something about it.
Too few voters are showing up on Election Day
Jesuit Father William Byron thinks we are nearing a crisis in America in our refusal to participate by voting in local, state and national elections. We are paying for it in the poor quality of candidates, in political gridlock and in ineffective governance at all levels. He looks to Catholic social teaching and the underappreciated principle of participation.