Spirituality
Disdain for Trump leads to trauma in confessional
A reader describes some harsh treatment by a confessor, who Father Ken Doyle calls "out of line" for bringing politics into the sacrament of penance.
Jesus’ mission of mercy continues, thanks to the Spirit
Msgr. Joseph Prior explains the solemnity of Pentecost, which celebrates God’s gift of the Holy Spirit dwelling within everyone. The church's members are called to share God's love and mercy.
Readings of the holy Mass — Pentecost Sunday
Read or listen to the readings before Mass with the resources below from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, using the New American Bible, Revised Edition.
A seat at the table of the Lord
The constant barrage of food ads and television shows feed a "food obsession." Yet food connects us to our beliefs and ancestors. In this package we dig into the lessons of a shared meal in the Bible and among families, and trace the spiritual significance of our daily bread.
When a Catholic foodie isn’t eating, he’s talking about eating
Sharing a meal is "one of the most intimate acts you can have," says Catholic food blogger Jeff Young. From the Bible to his grandparents' house to his own, he sees the power of the dinner table.
Food in Scripture: A sign of God’s love and steadfastness
Food can be misused just as any earthly good can. It is not misused if we recognize it as a gift from God: an opportunity to be giving, to make sacrifice, to grow in holiness.
A Catholic take on food culture
Food connects us to our beliefs, our communities, our ancestors. Throughout history humans have made food central to human celebration and socialization. Still, we hunger for the Bread of Life.
Telling non-Catholics why penance is necessary
A reader in a retirement community wonders how to answer friends who say sacramental confession insults the sacrifice of Jesus. Father Ken Doyle explains the scriptural roots of penance.
The Ascension is more than goodbye, it’s a promise to ‘see you again’
Gina Christian wonders why Jesus had to ascend into heaven. Maybe the last 2,000 years would have been a paradise, right to the present, if he hadn't. She turns to spiritual masters for the answer.
In living the Christian life, we’re not left alone
Reflecting on this Sunday's Mass and its scriptural themes of orphans, Christian community and witness to faith, Msgr. Joseph Prior explains Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit to remain with us.