Commentaries
Behold, the real world beyond the screens
"Behold" announces the holy, and in today's world of distractions, we should take time to put down our phones and behold those we love -- to hold them in holy attention, writes Laura Kelly Fanucci.
Icons on ammo boxes
George Weigel reviewed a Ukrainian Catholic art exhibit in Philadelphia that shows the transformation of the lethal into the life-giving, even as they support healing from persecution here and now.
A massive clean up for the crisis of fatherhood
As Father Eric Banecker reads a new novel about a wayward father, he thinks about abusive spiritual fathers in the church. The grace of renewal marks the way forward, even if it is painful and slow.
The Declaration of Interdependence
The text that announced the creation of the United States actually affirms not a self-serving individualism, but the need to work together for the common good, writes Gina Christian.
How to drink like a saint
During the summer with its parties, ball games and more leisurely pace, Oblate Father Thomas Dailey raises a toast, in moderation, to the virtues of sipping an adult beverage in celebration of life.
In tumultuous times, first listen to the darkness
These transitional times challenge our core beliefs and question about our fundamental notions: should we look for as it was or as it will be? Sister Ann Heath faithfully watches for signs of light amid the darkness.
Drowned by indifference
If only the deaths of a father and his daughter in the Rio Grande really were heartbreaking, then we might be moved to address the suffering and causes of 70 million people migrating worldwide, writes Gina Christian.
An unexpected voice, a painful message
The Vatican's lead investigator of all clergy sexual abuse reports worldwide, for 17 years, might have the worst job in the church, observes Greg Erlandson. Msgr. John Kennedy's honesty, and insights, are revealing.
Lessons in morality and philosophy in a superhero movie
Richard Doerflinger takes a good look at the Spiderman, Batman and Avengers movies, and in them sees society's struggle with moral decision making and what happens when utilitarianism isn't even useful.
The good Samaritans under arrest
As thousands have died at the U.S. southern border, kind people are offering the migrants water and food but are facing criminal charges. Moises Sandoval believes we can't let human suffering overwhelm our humanity.