Commentaries
Why would senators vote ‘no’ to prevent infanticide?
A Catholic writer in New Jersey wants an explanation from that state's two U.S. senators on why they would reject a bill that aimed to protect the lives of babies born after a botched abortion.
2 ways to enjoy the best of life
Start each day with a spiritual examen and practice gratitude, suggests Father Eugene Hemrick. Go outside of yourself, take notice of your blessings and help others who need support.
Lent by another name
People entering the church go through the Period of Purification and Enlightenment over these 40 days. Father Eric Banecker suggests everyone look at Lent through that lens, and see that the empty tomb lies just beyond the cross.
Our Dreyfus Case
The conviction of Cardinal George Pell on charges of “historic sexual abuse” mirrors the unjust conviction of a 19th century French soldier, writes George Weigel. Both men were targeted on what they stood for.
A letter to Archbishop William E. Lori on his pastoral on racism
Carole Norris Greene writes that Archbishop Lori's words assured her that the fight for equality was personal for him. She now feels confident that the Holy Spirit is working through church leaders to build a true community of faith open to all races.
From shame to hope through faith in Christ
Edith Avila Olea, a DACA recipient and Catholic administrator, reflects on the challenge of leaving behind fear and choosing to be defined by God's love -- a decision that all of the faithful are called to make.
Forty days and a wedding
A rural Nebraska wedding, almost cancelled due to a blizzard, was saved by a generous community that opened its hearts and hands, writes Effie Caldarola. By spending time with Jesus this Lent, we can learn how to live in that same kind of solidarity with each other.
The power of a positive, prayerful parent
Maureen Pratt shares how one mother with a special needs child helps other families affected by disability to find a church home through the Faith Inclusion Network, a ministry born from a desire to embrace all with God's love.
Lenten advice for teens
In addition to prayer, fasting and almsgiving, Maria-Pia Negro Chin offers youth several suggestions for drawing closer to God during Lent. At the top of the list is a reminder that your worth comes from God, and that you don't have to have all of life's answers.
What to take, what to leave behind, on the journey
Laura Kelly Fanucci knows the sage advice for taking young kids on a journey works well for anyone's journey through Lent, with a twist: Leave half of your plans behind. Bring twice the trust that God will feed you.