Spirituality
Baby’s baptism prompts fresh look at 1st sacrament
Gary Zimak found a new appreciation of baptism by attending his infant nephew's christening. Afterward the writer reviewed the catechism's teaching on the great gift of baptizing babies.
Should we bother converting others to Catholicism?
Father Kenneth Doyle clarifies for a reader whether those outside of the church can be saved, and if the faithful should try to "win them over." In response to another question, he explains whether priests can say Mass alone.
Every day is All Saints Day
Gina Christian has always had good friends in heavenly places, and she's grateful for their constant companionship in moments of both joy and sorrow.
Spiritual Exercises, spread over many months, can change your life
The 30-day intense spiritual journey written 500 years ago by St. Ignatius of Loyola can be performed over a longer time period, and in a powerful way, as Philadelphia Deacon Michael Kubiak explains.
Forgiving Dad was tough, but if God can, so can daughter
Cathy Peacock tells the story of a local woman whose father, a strict and abusive disciplinarian, found in old age God's mercy and the joy of knowing the Lord, which his daughter shares.
Like water, Christians stagnate if not moving, pope says
Without the crashing waves of hope moving in their lives, Christians can become static and corrupt, Pope Francis said. Without the humble virtue of hope, Christian faith is reduced to a philosophy.
Readings of the Holy Mass: Thirtieth 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.
Mind your own business each day to grow in holiness, pope says
Too often Catholics know what is going on in their neighbor's house but pay little or no attention to the normal spiritual struggles going on in their own hearts and souls, Pope Francis said.
True prayer begins with poverty of spirit
The tax collector who humbled himself models how we should approach God, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior. By admitting our own shortcomings and needs, we open the door to the Lord's love and discover the riches of his kingdom.
Pray, work – and encounter God in your neighbor
When we're overwhelmed by systemic injustice and suffering, St. Benedict's wisdom of "ora et labora" can weld us into a community of compassion and respect, writes Patrick Walsh.