Commentaries
Giving up Lenten sacrifices? Not so fast
While some Christians eschew giving up meat during Lent, John Garvey still likes to eat the Filet-o-Fish sandwich. He knows the wisdom, and Christ's instructions, in welcoming modest penitential practices.
Solidarity with a mother grieving her dead son
Hosffman Ospino tells of how Hispanic women hurry to church on Holy Saturday morning to meditate on Mary, whose son Jesus died unjustly, and with all mothers who grieve their children, dead or alive.
Winter’s chill and the loss of a friend
The passing of the bleak winter season comes with a heavy heart for Greg Erlandson, mourning the death of Bob Lockwood, a giant in Catholic communications. Even approaching death, Bob's hope lay in the resurrection.
Why would senators vote ‘no’ to prevent infanticide?
A Catholic writer in New Jersey wants an explanation from that state's two U.S. senators on why they would reject a bill that aimed to protect the lives of babies born after a botched abortion.
2 ways to enjoy the best of life
Start each day with a spiritual examen and practice gratitude, suggests Father Eugene Hemrick. Go outside of yourself, take notice of your blessings and help others who need support.
Lent by another name
People entering the church go through the Period of Purification and Enlightenment over these 40 days. Father Eric Banecker suggests everyone look at Lent through that lens, and see that the empty tomb lies just beyond the cross.
Our Dreyfus Case
The conviction of Cardinal George Pell on charges of “historic sexual abuse” mirrors the unjust conviction of a 19th century French soldier, writes George Weigel. Both men were targeted on what they stood for.
A letter to Archbishop William E. Lori on his pastoral on racism
Carole Norris Greene writes that Archbishop Lori's words assured her that the fight for equality was personal for him. She now feels confident that the Holy Spirit is working through church leaders to build a true community of faith open to all races.
From shame to hope through faith in Christ
Edith Avila Olea, a DACA recipient and Catholic administrator, reflects on the challenge of leaving behind fear and choosing to be defined by God's love -- a decision that all of the faithful are called to make.
Forty days and a wedding
A rural Nebraska wedding, almost cancelled due to a blizzard, was saved by a generous community that opened its hearts and hands, writes Effie Caldarola. By spending time with Jesus this Lent, we can learn how to live in that same kind of solidarity with each other.