Spirituality
After sweeping up the tree’s last needles, a new time to grow in Christ
Effie Caldarola looks toward January -- after the Christmas tree has been ingloriously hauled to the curb -- to take up the challenge of the Year of Mercy and ask Jesus to transform us in him.
Hyphenated names are A-OK, but not unbridled corporate greed
Father Ken Doyle answers a reader's question about whether a spouse may hyphenate her name (she may) and another reader's on Pope Francis' strong comments about corporate responsibility.
A hard goodbye before Christmas, and an emptying, ready for Christ
Each of us, if we use Advent to empty our hearts, can be a midwife for Christ in our souls, writes Michelle Francl-Donnay. May we become a simple cradle for the holy one of Israel, offering him to the world through our hands.
Can a Catholic oppose the Church’s position on climate change?
Father Doyle responds to questions about climate change and sanctuary lamps in Catholic churches.
Rejoicing in the Lord while embracing the darkness
Michelle Francl-Donnay writes about Gaudete Sunday and the juxtaposition of the joy of the Advent Season as well as the darkness that can permeate our lives.
Why is Cardinal Bernard Law allowed to remain a priest?
Father Doyle responds to questions about parish boundaries and the status of Cardinal Bernard Law, former Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Boston.
Searching for God in daily encounters
Michelle Francl-Donnay reflects on recognizing God in everyday encounters during the Advent season.
How should Christians respond to ISIS?
In his weekly column Father Doyle helps a reader understand how Christians should respond to ISIS, and he offers advice to another on handling a challenging family situation.
Have trust that miscarried children come to Jesus in heaven
In answering the question of a reader anguished by the death of a child in miscarriage, Father Doyle expresses complete confidence that her son or daughter is in heaven and that she will one day join the child in the joy of God's presence.
Money matters: ‘Shopping’ in church; charging interest isn’t usury, usually
Father Ken Doyle in his weekly column answers one reader's question about selling goods in church and another's about the possible sinfulness of interest on a loan.