Spirituality
How Mary’s statue helps in our busy home
A local Catholic couple explains their devotion to Our Lady of Fatima, and how her image reminds everyone that she is praying for the family, no matter how hectic life becomes.
Put a lock on your heart to avoid temptation, pope says
The best way to guard one's heart against the tricks of the devil, Pope Francis said, is with the daily practice of an examination of conscience.
Can laypeople offer blessings?
Clergy normally offer blessings, but in many cases laypeople appropriately do so -- and not just at dinner, writes Father Ken Doyle.
When God says no
Father John Catoir knows what it's like to doubt God when a loved one dies. Time does heal, and God's will takes into account the suffering of others, not just the pain of one person.
Pope recalls another key anniversary in his life: his first Communion
Unable to resist telling the world about a personal event that is dear to his heart, Pope Francis said that 70 years ago to the day, he celebrated his first Communion.
Let’s be honest with God, pope says
When we pray, we should remember with absolute honesty our life story before God "because our history is the story of his love for us," Pope Francis said during morning Mass. Despite our infidelity, God continues to call us back and offer his grace.
Salvation comes from Jesus, not DIY rules, earthly gurus, pope says
Jesus, with his gift of mercy, is the source of salvation, not surefire, clear-cut rules and commandments made by people, Pope Francis said.
Can a Catholic witness a friend’s civil marriage? It’s complicated
Father Ken Doyle gives credit to a couple who do not practice the Catholic faith who married in a civil ceremony, and to their Catholic friend who witnessed the wedding. He also explains the mingling of water with wine.
Pope: Use gifts to benefit church, not create division, envy, annoyance
Everyone has a special gift to offer the whole church, just make sure it is used to serve everyone and not to puff up one's own pride or to create division, Pope Francis said.
Lying is (almost) always wrong
Father Ken Doyle answers a CCD teacher's question about lying -- yes it is wrong, but there is wiggle room in the church's teaching on the topic.