Spirituality
Consumerism is the enemy of generosity, pope says
The desire to spend vast amounts on shopping and needless extravagances can prevent Christians from being generous with others, Pope Francis said.
Readings of the Holy Mass – Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with these resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
Cannibalizing the body of Christ
Tribalism in the American Catholic Church threatens our oneness in the Lord, writes Gina Christian. Rather than devouring each other, we need to feed on the divine Word to heal our divisions.
Where does the clerical sex abuse settlement money come from?
Father Kenneth Doyle explains to a reader how dioceses raise funds to compensate survivors of clerical abuse. In response to another question, he advises a reader on the annulment process.
The end of the world is a good thing
The journey of our lives, and of all creation, ultimately leads to the Lord of love, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior. God shows us the path of life when we focus our minds and hearts on him.
Readings of the Holy Mass – Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with these resources from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
Is online confession coming to a church near you?
Father Kenneth Doyle advises a reader interested in the convenience of "virtual absolution," and clarifies communion guidelines for Protestant Christians in response to a separate question.
Bishops must be blameless servants, not princes, pope says
A bishop must be "blameless" and at the service of God, not of cliques, assets and power, especially if he is ever to "set right" what needs to be done for the church, Pope Francis said.
Sacraments are not for sale, pope says at Mass
The sacraments are gifts from God that are given freely and are not a way for the church to fill up its coffers to cover expenses, Pope Francis said.
Jesus calls all to live in the kingdom of God
Christ offers an eternal citizenship that we can claim by trusting in him, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior. When the Lord is truly the ruler of our lives, we experience peace and security.