Commentaries
Fulfilling our New Year’s Resolutions
"In 2022, we hoped to be kind and take time to think about our neighbors, to make charitable contributions both monetarily and with our abilities, and to live more fully the teachings of the gospels. As we reflect on the year, we see that, as a Catholic community, we have persevered in fulfilling our resolutions," writes Sarah Hanley of the Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia.
This is what Laudato Si looks like in Philadelphia
"I’m grateful to have found brothers and sisters in faith to walk with on this daunting but necessary journey and they are right here in Philadelphia," writes Aaron Lemma in his column on Laudato Si and the work of EcoPhilly.
As we continue this Advent journey it might be time for us to get some tough love
“I don’t want to be harsh with anyone, but sometimes we do need some tough love. The sincerity of our repentance and discipleship must overflow into good works and charity,” writes Father Ravert in this reflection.
Jesus Christ is the source of our dignity
“Every person has dignity. As we begin this season of Advent, let us reflect on the humility of the Child Jesus who was born poor, an immigrant, unknown to the world. Let us reflect on Jesus alive in the hearts of our most vulnerable neighbors," writes Father Charles Ravert.
Racism is a sin and must be crushed, eradicated
"Courageous conversations on racial matters are needed with honest and respectful exchange of views. Words matter, tone matters, and civility matters," writes Gerald T. Davis, a member of the Archbishop’s Commission on Racial Healing.
Looking Back, Facing Forward
As we celebrate Black Catholic History Month, Father Stephen D. Thorne, chairperson of the Archbishop’s Commission on Racial Healing, writes, “If only we could encounter Jesus in each other in a renewed way to overcome prejudice and racism.”
Viva Cristo Rey
“Empires rise and fall, trends come and go, human power wanes, but Christ forever remains the one, true King of the Universe!” writes Father Charles Ravert.
Saying thank you for the many blessings in our lives
During this month of Thanksgiving, Sarah Hanley of the Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia writes, “I realize there are so many things I am thankful for, but perhaps above all, I am grateful for my faith which guides, restores, and anchors me."
No Learning Loss in Catholic Schools
While many schools across the nation reported that students fell behind due to distance learning during the COVID pandemic that was not the case with local Catholic schools. Students enrolled in the parish and regional Catholic elementary schools in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia advanced in grade-level learning during the COVID19 pandemic.
Surprising Pilgrimage of Faith
Father Eric Banecker reflects on his time leading a group of pilgrims to Italy and a moment of faith that stands out from the trip.