Spirituality

Spiritual support on the road to recovery from addiction

The soul, as well as the body, is wounded by substance abuse. Retreats, which draw participants more closely to God through word and sacrament, are an essential and ongoing part of the healing process.

Matt Talbot: An old friend on the modern journey to recovery

The Irish laborer, declared "venerable" by Pope Paul VI, has become a beloved patron for those struggling with substance abuse. Almost destroyed by severe alcoholism, Talbot found healing and hope through a profound love of Christ and devotion to the Catholic faith.

The Spirit of God is beating on the doors of our hearts

The "massive, joyous love" of Jesus extends to all, inviting us to relinquish fear and regret so that we can pray, forgive and build a community like we never have before,

Faith is confidence in God’s love and mercy

We can trust a Father who longs to shower us with good things, and rely on him fully even when he doesn't answer our prayers in the way we desire and expect, writes Msgr. Joseph Prior. Our belief in the Lord is our response to Jesus' call to discipleship.

Thinking small with the Little Flower

A 19th-century saint and a modern subway worker remind Gina Christian that little acts of love and sacrifice, rather than grand gestures, make a big splash in God's eternal perspective.

How serious must surgery be to receive sacramental anointing?

Father Ken Doyle answers a couple's question about whether they may seek the sacrament of the anointing given their age and condition. He also counsels on receiving Communion from the cup.

5 things to expect when you step out of the boat

The story of Peter stepping out of the boat and onto the water is familiar and extremely relevant in the life of every Christian, writes Gary Zimak. Jesus asks us to trust him regardless of life's scary storms.

Readings of the Holy Mass: Twenty-sixth 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.

Woe to the complacent who close the door to love

Msgr. Joseph Prior draws out the theme of this Sunday's readings for Mass, especially with the parable of the rich man and Lazarus: a complacent person numbed by riches can miss the chance to offer charity.

Tell your story of God’s love in your life

Cathy Peacock's life changed when she accepted that God wants to reveal himself to everyone, and she began her personal encounter with Christ. She urges everyone to share their own stories of faith.