Commentaries

What it Means for Pope Leo to Receive the Liberty Medal

When the Holy Father receives the honor July 3, he will convey the importance of religious freedom and Catholic social teaching for the world, writes Philadelphia resident Basil Merenda.

Bend the Knee: How Genuflection Makes Missionary Disciples

We might kneel to the Caesars and creeds of our age, but dropping to a knee in church is the first act of Christian missionary formation, writes Father Patrick Brady. We learn to worship God alone so we can proclaim Him fearlessly.

Student-Run Club Leads Praise of Jesus in Eucharist at Archbishop Wood

The archdiocesan high school in Warminster hosted FiatFest, which featured eucharistic adoration, confessions, prayers, music, and dancing. Theology teacher Rebecca Conte and other adults were moved by the expressions of faith.

Group from Archdiocese Makes Case for Immigration Reform at U.S. Capitol

Dozens of pilgrims from the Philadelphia region traveled to Washington last week urging meaningful reform of immigration laws through advocacy and prayer, writes Matthew Gambino.

Hearts on Fire: Young Adults Encountering the Sacred in the Heart of Philadelphia

The retreat that Jesuit Father Patrick Nolan will lead March 21 at Old St. Joseph’s Church blends silence, solid preaching, shared meals, and fellowship. It’s a simple recipe to return to the Lord this Lent.

‘Something is Happening’ as Teens Turn From Restless Hearts to Missionary Disciples

Catholic high school students are asking serious questions about faith and purpose, and are engaging in the sacramental life of the Church, writes Brendan Towell. The Holy Spirit is flowing throughout the Philadelphia region, and new seeds of faith are being planted.

I Carry My First Baby into Easter

Writer Brianna Dauby’s pregnancy has advanced through Advent and Lent with a mix of joyful anticipation and suffering. With her baby’s due date of Easter Sunday, she is grateful to enter into the cross with Christ during this time of Lenten preparation.

Forming and Supporting Priests is Important for All Catholics

As the Church of Philadelphia undertakes a planning study, one emphasis is on the care of priests and parish life directors, and formation of seminarians, for the future.

Pregnant Women Find They’ve Got Sisters on Their Journey of Life

From the Sisters of Life convent in North Philadelphia comes a witness to the transforming power of vulnerability and accompaniment, and the gifts of life and love, as writer Matthew Gambino discovered on a recent visit.

Is it Prudent to Trek to Mass in a Snowstorm?

With snow on the ground and possibly more on the way, Father Patrick Brady shows how to balance the obligation to attend Sunday Mass with deciding whether to drive, ride or walk to church – or stay home.