Spirituality

Drop the worry, get into the moment, choose the better part

Effie Caldarola takes a fresh look at the story of Martha, the busy host; and Mary, who sat at Jesus's feet. His lesson to his friends in the Gospel is relevant to us in these frantic times.

Gratitude keeps us free from the leprosy of envy

While a selfish attitude eats away at our soul, a spirit of humble thanksgiving enables us to retain a sense of wonder in life, writes Capuchin friar Father John Bednarik.

Jesus does not tolerate hypocrisy, pope says

Jesus enjoys unmasking hypocrisy, which is the work of the devil, Pope Francis said.

In a mixed marriage, must children be baptized as Catholic?

Father Kenneth Doyle explains church requirements for parents in ecumenical or interfaith unions. In response to another reader, he clarifies where our souls will end up when both heaven and earth pass away.

Asian, Pacific Islands Catholics in U.S. live out faith, challenge church to new growth

Rich in culture, history and faith, these communities are bringing new growth to the church in a land far from their ancestral homes. In this set of articles from Catholic News Service, we explore their experiences and the pastoral approaches that best fit them.

The new pastoral response to Asian and Pacific Island communities in the U.S.

With a population of close to 3 million, Asian and Pacific Island Catholics in the U.S. are a vibrant part of the body of Christ. The U.S. bishops are seeking ways to help them and the church "encounter Christ in harmony."

Devotions to Mary inspire Catholics in Asia

Persecuted Catholics throughout Asia have been drawn to Mary, with special devotions arising at La Vang in Vietnam and at Donglu in China. In each place, Mary's representation takes on the features of those who honor her, highlighting her solidarity with believers.

Healing and saving all peoples, God is worthy of praise

The Lord's generous love touches wounded bodies and souls in all the earth, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior. Giving thanks for the many ways we encounter God's goodness every day is essential.

Readings of the Holy Mass: Twenty-eighth 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.

Sowing in tears leads to reaping in joy

A dying garden and wasted sunflower seeds remind Gina Christian that a difficult summer has quickly faded into winter's coming gloom. But in Christ, we can trust that our tears will ultimately water a bountiful, and beautiful, harvest.