A UNIFORM CHURCH IS NO CHURCH
The Pope in Santa Marta: we must purify her, starting from ourselves; 'each of us builds according to the gift that God has given'
The Pope in Santa Marta: we must purify her, starting from ourselves; 'each of us builds according to the gift that God has given'
'AMERICA' ON RELIGIOUS LIBERTY
In light of the continuing debate around religious liberty and the rights of religious organizations, America magazine presents a collection of articles that have discussed, defended and articulated these issues over the past 70 years.
In light of the continuing debate around religious liberty and the rights of religious organizations, America magazine presents a collection of articles that have discussed, defended and articulated these issues over the past 70 years.
SPIRITUAL ASSAULT
Catholics are looking for a church grounded in Scripture and animated by mutual respect and cooperation, one in which baptism, not ordination, has preeminence.
Catholics are looking for a church grounded in Scripture and animated by mutual respect and cooperation, one in which baptism, not ordination, has preeminence.
A MODEL FOR COMMITTED LAY LIFE DEDICATED TO PRAYER, PEACE, AND JUSTICE
Lawyer Karen Gargamelli fulfilled her lifelong dream by forming a community of lay Catholics.
Lawyer Karen Gargamelli fulfilled her lifelong dream by forming a community of lay Catholics.
A PARISH IS THE BODY OF CHRIST - NOT A STARBUCKS FRANCHISE
Simply Spirit: Too many bishops have adopted a corporate mentality that views parish communities as so many commercial franchises to be managed, rather than the living body of Christ.
Simply Spirit: Too many bishops have adopted a corporate mentality that views parish communities as so many commercial franchises to be managed, rather than the living body of Christ.
A PASTORAL VISION
From the moment the Second Vatican Council opened, it has consistently been described as a pastoral council, sometimes so insistently and unthinkingly that the expression has become a cliché.
From the moment the Second Vatican Council opened, it has consistently been described as a pastoral council, sometimes so insistently and unthinkingly that the expression has become a cliché.
A QUESTION OF CONSCIENCE
Many U.S. Catholics find themselves stranded between those two worlds, especially when individual conscience comes into conflict with clear, if disputed, church teaching.
Many U.S. Catholics find themselves stranded between those two worlds, especially when individual conscience comes into conflict with clear, if disputed, church teaching.
A SACRED CALLING
Pope Francis has called us all not just to dialogue but to a better appreciation of our true relationship to one another. In an important way, this is a recovery of what is noble about politics.
Pope Francis has called us all not just to dialogue but to a better appreciation of our true relationship to one another. In an important way, this is a recovery of what is noble about politics.
A THING CALLED HOPE
Moving through a new year, we need to remember the good that is being done, the challenges met. We humans are far from perfect but we ain't all bad either.
Moving through a new year, we need to remember the good that is being done, the challenges met. We humans are far from perfect but we ain't all bad either.
AMERICAN CHRISTIANITY IS CHANGING FAST
The five key stories which evoke questions that religion-watches will be asking for years to come.
The five key stories which evoke questions that religion-watches will be asking for years to come.
AN INVITATION TO LEISURE
Leisure is not an absence of work, but a disposition of the soul to “perceptive understanding, of contemplative beholding, and immersion in the real.
Leisure is not an absence of work, but a disposition of the soul to “perceptive understanding, of contemplative beholding, and immersion in the real.
ANNULMENT DECISION DIDN'T DROP OUT OF THE SKY
This did not drop out of the sky. And it was not a unilateral, benevolently despotic act of the church’s supreme lawgiver. Bishops and priests from almost every part of the world have been calling for such a reform for a number of years.
This did not drop out of the sky. And it was not a unilateral, benevolently despotic act of the church’s supreme lawgiver. Bishops and priests from almost every part of the world have been calling for such a reform for a number of years.
AS PEWS EMPTY, REPORT REVEALS MORE ABOUT 'SPIRITUAL,' 'RELIGIOUS'
The hunt is on for why pews are emptying. Have assumed convictions lost their grip, or were they ever there at all?
The hunt is on for why pews are emptying. Have assumed convictions lost their grip, or were they ever there at all?
BEING A COMPANION THROUGH THE MYSTERY OF SUFFERING
Being present for people who are suffering doesn't necessarily take any deep experience; it simply requires saying ‘yes' when the need presents itself.
Being present for people who are suffering doesn't necessarily take any deep experience; it simply requires saying ‘yes' when the need presents itself.
BLACK LIVES, WHITE CATHOLICS
Consulting and collaborating with historians, political scientists, sociologists, psychologists, and theologians can help reveal the scope and tenacity of racism.
Consulting and collaborating with historians, political scientists, sociologists, psychologists, and theologians can help reveal the scope and tenacity of racism.
BUILT OF LIVING STONES; 5 BLACK CATHOLICS TO REMEMBER
Although the history of American Catholics is intertwined with the history of people of color, black Catholics have often been forgotten in the American church.
Although the history of American Catholics is intertwined with the history of people of color, black Catholics have often been forgotten in the American church.
CAN CATHOLICS DISAGREE ONLY WHEN THEY AGREE WITH THE CHURCH?
Is the new document from the International Theological Commission an explosion in St. Peter's Square that is described as church renewal?
Is the new document from the International Theological Commission an explosion in St. Peter's Square that is described as church renewal?
CAN THE CHURCH CHANGE ITS FOCUS FROM RULES TO PEOPLE?
Francis seems to recognize that the church is not an island but lives and operates in a larger world and a larger context.
Francis seems to recognize that the church is not an island but lives and operates in a larger world and a larger context.
CAN WHAT HAPPENED IN DELPHI HAPPEN IN ROME?
The church is relevant so long as the teaching of Jesus is relevant. As the Letter to the Hebrews says, “Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) Institutions come and go, but the Gospel goes on, speaking to the human heart.
The church is relevant so long as the teaching of Jesus is relevant. As the Letter to the Hebrews says, “Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) Institutions come and go, but the Gospel goes on, speaking to the human heart.
CATECHESIS AS A WAY OF LIFE
Robert B. Williams, practicing psychologist with an interest in catechesis and spiritual care, discusses invaluable developmental tasks for the family church.
Robert B. Williams, practicing psychologist with an interest in catechesis and spiritual care, discusses invaluable developmental tasks for the family church.
CATHOLIC CHURCH LIKE A PLANE WITH METAL FATIGUE
The overriding problem with the Church was that it operated as an empire, in an age when that model of governance was long since outdated.
The overriding problem with the Church was that it operated as an empire, in an age when that model of governance was long since outdated.
CATHOLIC COMMUNITY DOESN'T LOOK THE SAME FOR EVERYONE
Seeking and sustaining community is no easy feat, but its value is something we know in our very souls.
Seeking and sustaining community is no easy feat, but its value is something we know in our very souls.
CATHOLIC CYBER-MILITIAS AND THE NEW CENSORSHIP
The small groups that are behind the campaign have grown over the last few years. They make up a Catholic cyber-militia that include 'news' organizations like 'Church Militant' and bloggers such as Fr John Zuhlsdorf, This sort of vitriol is profoundly changing the communion of the Catholic Church. And not just in its ethos, but also in the way it functions.
The small groups that are behind the campaign have grown over the last few years. They make up a Catholic cyber-militia that include 'news' organizations like 'Church Militant' and bloggers such as Fr John Zuhlsdorf, This sort of vitriol is profoundly changing the communion of the Catholic Church. And not just in its ethos, but also in the way it functions.
CATHOLICS WHO JUDGE
Pope Francis has strongly criticized Catholics who brag that they are perfect followers of the church's teachings but then criticize or speak ill of others in their faith communities...
Pope Francis has strongly criticized Catholics who brag that they are perfect followers of the church's teachings but then criticize or speak ill of others in their faith communities...
CHURCH URGED TO 'FEED THE SHEEP WHERE THEY ARE' - ON THE INTERNET
The digital world is the richest, and limitless territory for evangelization ever devised, but Catholic communicators must be professional, creative and empathetic to realize its full potential.
The digital world is the richest, and limitless territory for evangelization ever devised, but Catholic communicators must be professional, creative and empathetic to realize its full potential.
DON'T BLAME FRANCIS FOR CHURCH'S DIVISIONS
Pope Francis isn’t trying to drive conservative Catholics out of the church. But he has decisively put a stop to their efforts to eject everyone else.
Pope Francis isn’t trying to drive conservative Catholics out of the church. But he has decisively put a stop to their efforts to eject everyone else.
DON'T PUT PRIESTS ON A PEDESTAL
Finally there appears an issue that our divided church can agree on. Catholics of all stripes—conservatives and liberals and in-betweens—are declaring a pox on clericalism.
Finally there appears an issue that our divided church can agree on. Catholics of all stripes—conservatives and liberals and in-betweens—are declaring a pox on clericalism.
EMBRACING LIFE'S SECOND ACT - GETTING OLDER WITH GRACE
Aging gracefully requires the courage to face our burdens, to accept our blessings, and to recreate our lives in new ways.
Aging gracefully requires the courage to face our burdens, to accept our blessings, and to recreate our lives in new ways.
ENOUGH PROSELYTISM, IT'S TIME FOR 'SILENCE'
The 'antiquated' concept of mission, or 'making proselytes and procuring converts to the Church,' must be replaced with 'dialogue.'
The 'antiquated' concept of mission, or 'making proselytes and procuring converts to the Church,' must be replaced with 'dialogue.'
FAITH TO FAITH AND FACE TO FACE
It is time for a change. And healthy religious people have a serious responsibility to be alert and to accept the challenge to critique and halt religious violence.
It is time for a change. And healthy religious people have a serious responsibility to be alert and to accept the challenge to critique and halt religious violence.
FINDING MERCY AT THE TABLE
What is the special contribution of the once-broken, the imperfect, to a Christian community coming together to witness to God’s forgiving love?
What is the special contribution of the once-broken, the imperfect, to a Christian community coming together to witness to God’s forgiving love?
FLYING SOLO: LIFE AS A SINGLE CATHOLIC
Being single doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you—it just means you’ve chosen a different path.
Being single doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you—it just means you’ve chosen a different path.
GOOD PASTORS ALWAYS LOOK, HAVE COMPASSION, TEACH
A good pastor always sees what people are going through, feels compassion and then nourishes them with God's Word.
A good pastor always sees what people are going through, feels compassion and then nourishes them with God's Word.
GRACE UNDER PRESSURE
All special needs have the potential to be vehicles for God’s grace, bringing families to new places of love and acceptance.
All special needs have the potential to be vehicles for God’s grace, bringing families to new places of love and acceptance.
GREATER THAN THE SUM OF ITS PARTS
The church is not meant to be uniform, smooth, or uncomplicated—its many different faces, its unruly irregularity, is not a liability or a problem to be resolved, but instead its most precious asset.
The church is not meant to be uniform, smooth, or uncomplicated—its many different faces, its unruly irregularity, is not a liability or a problem to be resolved, but instead its most precious asset.
HAS CATHOLIC INFIGHTING GOTTEN WORSE?
Inside the Vatican Podcast: A discussion about the history of resistance to papal initiatives in the last 30 years. Is the current climate different from what happened during recent pontificates?
Inside the Vatican Podcast: A discussion about the history of resistance to papal initiatives in the last 30 years. Is the current climate different from what happened during recent pontificates?
HOW CATHOLIC ARE U.S. CATHOLICS?
More than 81 million U.S. adults identify themselves as Catholic. But how they live that identity — how they connect to the church beyond celebrating the popular Pope Francis — adds up very differently.
More than 81 million U.S. adults identify themselves as Catholic. But how they live that identity — how they connect to the church beyond celebrating the popular Pope Francis — adds up very differently.
HOW THE CATHOLIC WORLD IS CHANGING
Since Vatican II, Catholicism has experienced a dramatic shift in allegiance by region. Here is a global look at the demographics of the faith since 1965.
Since Vatican II, Catholicism has experienced a dramatic shift in allegiance by region. Here is a global look at the demographics of the faith since 1965.
HOW THE LOCAL MOVEMENT IS REVITALIZING CHURCH
Thousands of Christians are reclaiming the ancient idea of the “parish” and weaving together a shared life in the place they call home.
Thousands of Christians are reclaiming the ancient idea of the “parish” and weaving together a shared life in the place they call home.
HOW TO WORK TOWARD INTERFAITH UNDERSTANDING
You know you’re in for an interesting conversation when a lifelong Catholic says that getting to know and love Islam helped her develop a deep knowledge and love for her own Catholic faith.
You know you’re in for an interesting conversation when a lifelong Catholic says that getting to know and love Islam helped her develop a deep knowledge and love for her own Catholic faith.
IT IS TIME TO FIX OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL CULTURE
When choosing to believe is more and more a revolutionary act, religious education must do much more than hand on the basic tenets of the faith.
When choosing to believe is more and more a revolutionary act, religious education must do much more than hand on the basic tenets of the faith.
IT'S A BRAVE NEW WORLD - EMBRACE IT
Embracing newness as a mandate for spiritual growth isn’t a Pauline principle alone. Instead of being shaken to your core by the new and unknown, see it as an opportunity for spiritual growth.
Embracing newness as a mandate for spiritual growth isn’t a Pauline principle alone. Instead of being shaken to your core by the new and unknown, see it as an opportunity for spiritual growth.
IT'S TIME FOR CHRISTIANITY TO RE-EMPHASIZE RESURRECTION OF THE BODY
To the surprise of some of its adherents, Christianity does not teach that each of us has an immortal soul. That, instead, is an old Greek idea, one that from time to time has weaseled its way into Christian thinking.
To the surprise of some of its adherents, Christianity does not teach that each of us has an immortal soul. That, instead, is an old Greek idea, one that from time to time has weaseled its way into Christian thinking.
JESUS IS THE QUESTION, NOT THE ANSWER
Knowing the ‘Catholic answer’ does little good if we’re not asking the right questions. If we aren’t careful to ask the right questions, no matter which answers we arrive at, they are sure to be woefully inadequate.
Knowing the ‘Catholic answer’ does little good if we’re not asking the right questions. If we aren’t careful to ask the right questions, no matter which answers we arrive at, they are sure to be woefully inadequate.
JESUS LOVED IMPERFECT PEOPLE
Each of us must discover the directions in which we will find our holiness. This is the goal of a lifelong education, not merely to make a living but to find out what living is for.
Each of us must discover the directions in which we will find our holiness. This is the goal of a lifelong education, not merely to make a living but to find out what living is for.
LAYPEOPLE ARE CREATING A BLUEPRINT FOR THE CHURCH'S SUCCESS
While the Catholic Church may not be your average business, good management of people, programs, and resources is essential for achieving its mission of spreading the Gospel.
While the Catholic Church may not be your average business, good management of people, programs, and resources is essential for achieving its mission of spreading the Gospel.
LET'S ALL AGREE TO 'LIVE IN TENSION'
Pope Francis to the Vatican diplomatic corps: 'abandon the familiar rhetoric and start from the essential consideration that we are dealing, above all, with persons.'
Pope Francis to the Vatican diplomatic corps: 'abandon the familiar rhetoric and start from the essential consideration that we are dealing, above all, with persons.'
MAKE THE CATHOLIC CHURCH GREAT AGAIN? THERE'S NO GOING BACK
There has never been a 'great' time, a 'golden age,' a context in which the church was actually a 'perfect society' or anything apart from what it always has been and remains: a pilgrim community of the baptized.
There has never been a 'great' time, a 'golden age,' a context in which the church was actually a 'perfect society' or anything apart from what it always has been and remains: a pilgrim community of the baptized.
NONES; - A MIXED BAG
If people come back to church because of Francis but find a communities and clergy that are judgmental rather than compassionate, all about rules rather than love, they will head for the exit and never return.
If people come back to church because of Francis but find a communities and clergy that are judgmental rather than compassionate, all about rules rather than love, they will head for the exit and never return.
OUR CHILDREN MIGHT RETURN TO THE CHURCH, BUT OUR GRANDCHILDREN MOST LIKELY WON'T
It is no surprise that the children of the Church are growing up and growing out of Church. What is surprising is that they are not returning.
It is no surprise that the children of the Church are growing up and growing out of Church. What is surprising is that they are not returning.
STARVING IN THE PEWS
The good news about preaching the good news is that you don’t have to be a brilliant scholar or captivating orator to do it.
The good news about preaching the good news is that you don’t have to be a brilliant scholar or captivating orator to do it.
THE CALL OF THE BAPTIZED; LIVING THE MISSION
Dr. Paul Lakeland on the challenges facing the church which seem attainable precisely because they dovetail so well with Pope Francis’s ideas on Church reform.
Dr. Paul Lakeland on the challenges facing the church which seem attainable precisely because they dovetail so well with Pope Francis’s ideas on Church reform.
THE CHURCH INSIDE THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
If an institution such as the Catholic Church were to say that women are fully equal, fully capable of leading, fully capable of empowerment, think of what kind of message that would send to patriarchal societies all over the world.
If an institution such as the Catholic Church were to say that women are fully equal, fully capable of leading, fully capable of empowerment, think of what kind of message that would send to patriarchal societies all over the world.
THE CHURCH ISN'T STATIC - SHE'S A PILGRIM ON A JOURNEY
Pope Francis in his weekly general audience said that the Church on earth is on a pilgrimage to heaven guided by the Lord, who will lead us to the fullness of joy and truth at the end of time.
Pope Francis in his weekly general audience said that the Church on earth is on a pilgrimage to heaven guided by the Lord, who will lead us to the fullness of joy and truth at the end of time.
THE CHURCH MAY BE MORE RESILIENT THAN WE THINK
Our church and our civic institutions are in trouble today. They need us. To repair our church and civic organizations, we need to recall why they are important.
Our church and our civic institutions are in trouble today. They need us. To repair our church and civic organizations, we need to recall why they are important.
THE CHURCH'S FUTURE DEPENDS ON MISSION, NOT MAINTENANCE
Chicago Archbishop Blaise Cupich knows the church is changing and says that Catholics should discern faithfully how to move forward together.
Chicago Archbishop Blaise Cupich knows the church is changing and says that Catholics should discern faithfully how to move forward together.
THE ERA OF THE PAROCHIAL SCHOOL IS OVER. MEET THE CATHOLIC EDUCATORS SEARCHING FOR WHAT’S NEXT
How much power should be given to the laity and how much retained by the hierarchy? Today Catholic schools are shifting some of that authority from pastors and principals to other sources.
How much power should be given to the laity and how much retained by the hierarchy? Today Catholic schools are shifting some of that authority from pastors and principals to other sources.
THE EXODUS HITS HOME
Is our Catholic parish structure inadequate for supporting the needs of adult Christians? How many more departures will have to happen before our faith community and its leaders take this exodus more seriously.
Is our Catholic parish structure inadequate for supporting the needs of adult Christians? How many more departures will have to happen before our faith community and its leaders take this exodus more seriously.
THE UNCERTAIN FUTURE OF PARISH LIFE
We need a new, creative, more imaginative approach to serving the pastoral needs of the people of God than the parochial principle inherited from the village and agrarian societies of the past.
We need a new, creative, more imaginative approach to serving the pastoral needs of the people of God than the parochial principle inherited from the village and agrarian societies of the past.
WE HAVE NO SHORTAGE OF VOCATIONS. WHAT WE HAVE IS A SHORTAGE OF VISION
It's hard to fathom how church leaders can in good conscience avoid opening ordination, especially in light of so many parish closings.
It's hard to fathom how church leaders can in good conscience avoid opening ordination, especially in light of so many parish closings.
WHO REPRESENTS THE LAITY?
The problem is not that these new lay members are particularly liberal or conservative; the problem is that the ecclesial movements they represent are hardly representative of the Catholic laity overall.
The problem is not that these new lay members are particularly liberal or conservative; the problem is that the ecclesial movements they represent are hardly representative of the Catholic laity overall.
JESUS' THIRD WAY IS WHAT I TRY TO PRACTICE
We are made to be connected to one another. When we forget that, we destroy a part of ourselves. 'As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ.'
We are made to be connected to one another. When we forget that, we destroy a part of ourselves. 'As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ.'
HAS OUR FAITH GONE LUKEWARM?
Lukewarm Christianity will not be enough anymore, whether among our leaders or ourselves in the pews. To repair our broken church (which remains the best hope for our broken world), we must really live our baptismal calling every day.
Lukewarm Christianity will not be enough anymore, whether among our leaders or ourselves in the pews. To repair our broken church (which remains the best hope for our broken world), we must really live our baptismal calling every day.
YOUR THOUGHTS ON LEAVING THE CHURCH, PART TWO
Responses to Melinda Henneberger's "Why I left the church, and what I'm hearing about it" from NCR readers.
Responses to Melinda Henneberger's "Why I left the church, and what I'm hearing about it" from NCR readers.
IN DIVISIVE TIMES, CHESTERTON INSPIRES UNITY
At a time when Catholics seem to be split between conservative or progressive factions, the life and works of English writer G. K. Chesterton can inspire men and women in the church to rise above conflict.
At a time when Catholics seem to be split between conservative or progressive factions, the life and works of English writer G. K. Chesterton can inspire men and women in the church to rise above conflict.
REMEDIES FOR AMERICAN CATHOLIC POLARIZATION
Those hoping for a quick fix to the problem of Catholic polarization are sadly out of luck.
Those hoping for a quick fix to the problem of Catholic polarization are sadly out of luck.
THE BEATITUDES IN THE AGE OF ME FIRST
We may not have the temperament to be on the frontlines of change but we can change the way we see ourselves, our neighbor and the world and choose resurrection now.
We may not have the temperament to be on the frontlines of change but we can change the way we see ourselves, our neighbor and the world and choose resurrection now.
WE IN THE PEWS MUST NO LONGER SIMPLY PRAY & PAY
Disappointed and angered once again by the Catholic Church, we lay people must act to protect our faith.
Disappointed and angered once again by the Catholic Church, we lay people must act to protect our faith.
WHAT CHRIST IN THE EUCHARIST TEACHES US ABOUT TIME AND ETERNITY
In the Eucharist, the risen Christ breaks into time, into our midst, and there he gathers the fragments of our failures and our frustrations into his arms, transforming them...
In the Eucharist, the risen Christ breaks into time, into our midst, and there he gathers the fragments of our failures and our frustrations into his arms, transforming them...
ROME CONFERENCE PONDERS THE RISE OF ‘EVERYDAY’ LAY SAINTS
A new emphasis on holiness as something attainable and which should be pursued by all members of the Church, not just priests and consecrated people.
A new emphasis on holiness as something attainable and which should be pursued by all members of the Church, not just priests and consecrated people.
BECOMING CATHOLIC IN THE AGE OF SCANDAL
At Easter, thousands of people converted to Catholicism even as sex abuse allegations have rocked the church.
At Easter, thousands of people converted to Catholicism even as sex abuse allegations have rocked the church.
‘THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT: I’M CONVINCED OF THAT’
What is the experience of being a priest today, serving in an ordinary parish, in a Church that is struggling to maintain its credibility?
What is the experience of being a priest today, serving in an ordinary parish, in a Church that is struggling to maintain its credibility?
THOUGH COMPLICIT IN EVIL, THE CHURCH IS WHERE HOPE BEGINS
We can no longer afford to be so naive about the church.
We can no longer afford to be so naive about the church.
IS GOD BECOMING NON-PARTISAN?
Questions about what Christianity really means? What the Bible actually says? And what parts of the Gospel are most relevant today?
Questions about what Christianity really means? What the Bible actually says? And what parts of the Gospel are most relevant today?
IN A DIVIDED CHURCH, A CHALLENGE TO FIND WHAT UNITES US
We owe good faith to fellow believers, even those with different perspectives.
We owe good faith to fellow believers, even those with different perspectives.
THESE MILLENNIALS GOT NEW ROOMMATES. THEY’RE NUNS
A project called Nuns and Nones moved religion-free millennials into a convent.
A project called Nuns and Nones moved religion-free millennials into a convent.
LINGERING ON THE MARGINS
Is the language of staying or leaving, of being inside or outside the church, failing to capture the experiences of many people who live with these tensions? Does going to the margins actually take you to the center of the church?
Is the language of staying or leaving, of being inside or outside the church, failing to capture the experiences of many people who live with these tensions? Does going to the margins actually take you to the center of the church?
FOR NUNS AND NONES' SIX-MONTH PILOT PROGRAM, MILLENNIALS MOVE IN
For six months Mercy sisters and spiritually curious millennials gathered and lived in this suburb south of San Francisco.
For six months Mercy sisters and spiritually curious millennials gathered and lived in this suburb south of San Francisco.
HOW TO SURVIVE THE CATHOLIC CHURCH AND NOT LOSE FAITH
An invitation to commitment, an awareness that is sometimes bitter, more often ironic, about the life of our parishes, told by those who frequent it and try to improve it.
An invitation to commitment, an awareness that is sometimes bitter, more often ironic, about the life of our parishes, told by those who frequent it and try to improve it.
STEPPING BACK
What the high-octane pace of news coverage does to our mental and emotional wellbeing.
What the high-octane pace of news coverage does to our mental and emotional wellbeing.
FROM THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION TO THE DIGITAL, WHAT GUIDES US ON 'NEW THINGS'?
The signs indicate that the church really can't afford to bring more dehumanization to the table.
The signs indicate that the church really can't afford to bring more dehumanization to the table.
POPE FRANCIS CALLS US TO BUILD BRIDGES. LET’S START IN OUR PARISHES
The church in the United States is in the midst of a profound transformation that is manifested vividly at the parish level.
The church in the United States is in the midst of a profound transformation that is manifested vividly at the parish level.
THE RISE OF EWTN: FROM PIETY TO PARTISANSHIP
An NCR multi-part series looking at the effect of money on the Catholic narrative both inside the church and beyond.
An NCR multi-part series looking at the effect of money on the Catholic narrative both inside the church and beyond.
FRANCIS CONTINUES TO MAKE US ALL A BIT UNCOMFORTABLE
From his stance on migrants to his encyclical Laudato si', the pope causes controversy.
From his stance on migrants to his encyclical Laudato si', the pope causes controversy.
WHY LAPSED CATHOLICS CAN BE OUR BEST TEACHERS
Lapsed artists are still pilgrims, walking in the mystery of God.
Lapsed artists are still pilgrims, walking in the mystery of God.
CATHOLIC CULTURE WARS
Pope Francis has brought a major change to the culture of the Church. Pastoral care is his top priority. He has changed the balance in the culture wars.
Pope Francis has brought a major change to the culture of the Church. Pastoral care is his top priority. He has changed the balance in the culture wars.
JESUS TELLS US TO BECOME FIRE. HERE’S HOW TO CLAIM YOUR FLAME
The church commissions us at baptism to keep the flame of faith alive in our hearts. We are called to embody the divine blaze.
The church commissions us at baptism to keep the flame of faith alive in our hearts. We are called to embody the divine blaze.
WHY THE POPE PROBABLY WASN’T TROLLING TRUMP ON POPULISM
Pronouncements are intentionally crafted to extend across space and time - in other words, not to refer directly to any specific personality or situation.
Pronouncements are intentionally crafted to extend across space and time - in other words, not to refer directly to any specific personality or situation.
DO CATHOLICS 'ACTUALLY' BELIEVE IN THE REAL PRESENCE?
With other studies' very different results, scholars question recent headline-making survey
With other studies' very different results, scholars question recent headline-making survey
ADAPTING TO A ‘WORLD CHURCH’
Finally, efforts are underway to understand Vatican II in light of a global Catholic Church. Massimo Faggioli on a new, culturally diverse commentary.
Finally, efforts are underway to understand Vatican II in light of a global Catholic Church. Massimo Faggioli on a new, culturally diverse commentary.
WHAT LEONARD BERNSTEIN’S ‘MASS’ TELLS US ABOUT OUR CHURCH
'Mass' tells us something true about our church and ourselves. We should not be afraid to hear it.
'Mass' tells us something true about our church and ourselves. We should not be afraid to hear it.
THE EUCHARIST IS ABOUT MORE THAN CHRIST BECOMING PRESENT
Like the Pew Research Center, Catholics have an impoverished idea of what the Eucharist is really all about.
Like the Pew Research Center, Catholics have an impoverished idea of what the Eucharist is really all about.
RELIGIOUS AND POET: FATHER GABRIEL RINGLET, A MAVERICK
'We have a conception of the priest and the priesthood that are part of the false sacred'
'We have a conception of the priest and the priesthood that are part of the false sacred'
WHAT IT MEANS TO BE AN ‘INCLUSIVE’ CHURCH
One day, we’ll look back on this debate in the church and realise that this was the moment when we truly discovered what lay in store for us in the kingdom of God.
One day, we’ll look back on this debate in the church and realise that this was the moment when we truly discovered what lay in store for us in the kingdom of God.
WHEN PROFESSIONAL CATHOLICS BURN OUT
Working for the church can make it hard to believe in it.
Working for the church can make it hard to believe in it.
TO RESCUE A SINKING CHURCH, THINK MISSION NOT MEMBERSHIP
The American Catholic Church is at a crossroads. Will it choose safety or discipleship?
The American Catholic Church is at a crossroads. Will it choose safety or discipleship?
AMAZON SYNOD ORGANIZERS DEFEND FOCUS ON DISPUTED ISSUES, CITE REGION'S NEEDS
It's about evangelization: how do we keep doing the work for which the church exists?
It's about evangelization: how do we keep doing the work for which the church exists?
JOHN HENRY NEWMAN CALLS CATHOLICS TO BE 'MISSIONARY DISCIPLES'
It is not that the Church of God has a mission, but that the mission of God has a Church.
It is not that the Church of God has a mission, but that the mission of God has a Church.
THE JOYFUL WAY TO EVANGELIZE
The goal is to form a relationship with the hope that the real work of evangelization, the work of the Holy Spirit, can be achieved.
The goal is to form a relationship with the hope that the real work of evangelization, the work of the Holy Spirit, can be achieved.
IN PRAISE OF FRAGMENTS
We’re fortunate as Christians to have four gospels. And each of them is in a sense a fragment of the wider New Testament. And within each of them, there are certain fragments.
We’re fortunate as Christians to have four gospels. And each of them is in a sense a fragment of the wider New Testament. And within each of them, there are certain fragments.
HOW TO BE A MISSIONARY TODAY
The act of serving and evangelizing has continually evolved since the time of Jesus.
The act of serving and evangelizing has continually evolved since the time of Jesus.
FRANCIS TAKES JOHN PAUL II'S 'BE NOT AFRAID!' TO NEW LEVELS
For an institution that has no clear processes in place to effect change, there was a mashup of evidence during recent weeks in Rome that some significant change is, in fact, under way.
For an institution that has no clear processes in place to effect change, there was a mashup of evidence during recent weeks in Rome that some significant change is, in fact, under way.
THE WEALTH OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
It is important to reflect on the thought of Francis, and as the Synod begins it is useful to highlight these four elements, fruit of the reflections of the pontiff during his Argentine years.
It is important to reflect on the thought of Francis, and as the Synod begins it is useful to highlight these four elements, fruit of the reflections of the pontiff during his Argentine years.
WITH NEWMAN, THE CHURCH GAINS ITS 'SAINT FOR MODERN TIMES'
Blessed John Henry Newman widely seen as an architect of the modern church
Blessed John Henry Newman widely seen as an architect of the modern church
WE ARE ALL TOILING IN THE SHADOW OF ST. JOHN HENRY NEWMAN
If the church in our own time is looking for a way to get past its ideological divisions, we could all start by reading Newman honestly...
If the church in our own time is looking for a way to get past its ideological divisions, we could all start by reading Newman honestly...
CARDINAL NEWMAN A SAINT FOR THE MODERN AGE
Newman offers a model for Catholics trying to engage in public life - why this giant of the 19th century has just as much relevance for today’s Catholics.
Newman offers a model for Catholics trying to engage in public life - why this giant of the 19th century has just as much relevance for today’s Catholics.
IN MANHATTAN, A PARISH WHERE PEOPLE 'WANT TO BE'
"People will go out of their way to come here for the liturgy, for the community, for preaching that's not afraid to engage the issues at hand," says the new pastor.
"People will go out of their way to come here for the liturgy, for the community, for preaching that's not afraid to engage the issues at hand," says the new pastor.
BE THE CHURCH YOU WISH TO SEE IN THE WORLD
As the church reels from the clergy abuse scandal, one writer finds hope in her personal connections with other Catholics.
As the church reels from the clergy abuse scandal, one writer finds hope in her personal connections with other Catholics.
ARCHBISHOP CONDEMNS CATHOLIC KEYBOARD WARRIORS
A Catholicism of self-defined certainties will lead eventually to a doubt about all certainties and thus to emptiness.
A Catholicism of self-defined certainties will lead eventually to a doubt about all certainties and thus to emptiness.
CHURCH OLD AND NEW: THE EMERGING CHURCH
These shifts may be the very reason we are currently so divided as Christians, with some clinging to an older way of doing and thinking while others are pulling in these new and “emerging” directions.
These shifts may be the very reason we are currently so divided as Christians, with some clinging to an older way of doing and thinking while others are pulling in these new and “emerging” directions.
BETWEEN NAZARETH AND BETHLEHEM: JESUS’ ORIGINS IN THE GOSPEL
The complex presentation of the origins of Jesus embodies a tension between continuity and rupture, old and new, expectation and surprise in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The complex presentation of the origins of Jesus embodies a tension between continuity and rupture, old and new, expectation and surprise in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
IN TIME OF CRISIS, THE CHURCH MUST BE RENEWED
At times of great crisis in the Catholic Church, God intervened to renew it through the example and witness of saints, said Archbishop Leonard P. Blair of Hartford, Connecticut.
At times of great crisis in the Catholic Church, God intervened to renew it through the example and witness of saints, said Archbishop Leonard P. Blair of Hartford, Connecticut.
SHE CAN DO ANYTHING
For Patti Smith, turbulence of spirit is the mark of a great artist. It is also related to hope and faith because, ultimately, it leads to charity, the ability to join one’s suffering with that of others...
For Patti Smith, turbulence of spirit is the mark of a great artist. It is also related to hope and faith because, ultimately, it leads to charity, the ability to join one’s suffering with that of others...
DIALOGUE BEGINS WITH EMPATHY, NOT CONTEMPT
Christians who preach the Gospel must see people who do not know Christ as children of God and not as nonbelievers worthy of hostility and contempt...
Christians who preach the Gospel must see people who do not know Christ as children of God and not as nonbelievers worthy of hostility and contempt...
TAKING THE ROLE OF ALL THE BAPTIZED IN CHURCH LEADERSHIP SERIOUSLY
Is “leadership” just another way of talking about the hierarchy and nothing else? Is “leadership” merely synonymous with the gifts of authoritative teaching intrinsic to the episcopal order?
Is “leadership” just another way of talking about the hierarchy and nothing else? Is “leadership” merely synonymous with the gifts of authoritative teaching intrinsic to the episcopal order?
CHURCHES EVER EMPTIER. TWO SURVEYS IN THE UNITED STATES AND ITALY
In the United States there is a noteworthy survey by the Washington-based Pew Research Center, to which on November 13 “L’Osservatore Romano” also dedicated an article.
In the United States there is a noteworthy survey by the Washington-based Pew Research Center, to which on November 13 “L’Osservatore Romano” also dedicated an article.
IF A LITTLE CATHOLIC CONFUSION EXISTS, MAYBE IT IS A BLESSING
The organized opposition to Pope Francis and his more pastoral approach grows more vociferous, with the word "confusion" often applied...
The organized opposition to Pope Francis and his more pastoral approach grows more vociferous, with the word "confusion" often applied...
DO ADULTS NEED FAITH FORMATION?
Parishes need to look beyond CCD and focus on faith formation for adults.
Parishes need to look beyond CCD and focus on faith formation for adults.
HOW FRANCIS PLAYS IN PEORIA: CAN FRANCIS CHANGE THE CHURCH?
For many Catholics, especially those committed to the church but conflicted about it, the figure of “Pope Francis” has emerged as a beacon.
For many Catholics, especially those committed to the church but conflicted about it, the figure of “Pope Francis” has emerged as a beacon.
THE BENEFITS OF PARISH-HOPPING
The notion of tolerating a grouchy pastor, a dull homilist, or a depressing musical environment is one that contributes to the spiritual malaise found in many parishes.
The notion of tolerating a grouchy pastor, a dull homilist, or a depressing musical environment is one that contributes to the spiritual malaise found in many parishes.
SURVEY FINDS TENSION BETWEEN PROFESSIONAL AND 'MISSIONARY' CAMPUS MINISTERS
Follow-up projects to address 'shared ministry' and college-to-parish transition
Follow-up projects to address 'shared ministry' and college-to-parish transition
HOSPITALITY IS AN IMPORTANT ECUMENICAL VIRTUE
Showing hospitality makes a person a better human being and a better Christian and is an important part of promoting Christian unity, Pope Francis said.
Showing hospitality makes a person a better human being and a better Christian and is an important part of promoting Christian unity, Pope Francis said.
CHRISTIAN UNITY REQUIRES RECOGNIZING, WELCOMING OTHERS' GIFTS
As Christians work and pray for the restoration of full unity among them, they must be willing to learn from one another, even from the smallest of the Christian communities...
As Christians work and pray for the restoration of full unity among them, they must be willing to learn from one another, even from the smallest of the Christian communities...
WHAT IS THE COMMON GOOD?
It is often easier to point to ways that the common good is not being pursued than to specific ways that the common good ought to be pursued.
It is often easier to point to ways that the common good is not being pursued than to specific ways that the common good ought to be pursued.
HOW TO COMMUNICATE IN A POLARIZED SOCIETY
How do we promote unity, encounter and reconciliation while remaining faithful to diversity? What is the attitude, to be good communicators where polarization seeks to impose itself on every public or private discussion?
How do we promote unity, encounter and reconciliation while remaining faithful to diversity? What is the attitude, to be good communicators where polarization seeks to impose itself on every public or private discussion?
THE NEW PARISH MINISTRY EMPOWERING IMMIGRANT CATHOLICS
Pastoral Migratoria has developed over the past 11 years as a way to put agency back into the hands of immigrant Catholics who feel their worlds are becoming more dangerous and uncontrollable.
Pastoral Migratoria has developed over the past 11 years as a way to put agency back into the hands of immigrant Catholics who feel their worlds are becoming more dangerous and uncontrollable.
CAN TECHNOLOGY CREATE CATHOLIC DISCIPLES?
What if we are overlooking a powerful tool that could help build our ministries and strengthen the commitment of our church members to engage in a transformative relationship with God?
What if we are overlooking a powerful tool that could help build our ministries and strengthen the commitment of our church members to engage in a transformative relationship with God?
THREE CHEERS FOR SOCIALISM
Christian Love & Political Practice: use of civic wealth for common human ends precisely in order to restore ...the Christian law of love of neighbor and faith in God’s charity that modernity has displaced by its reliance instead on the forces of self-interest.
Christian Love & Political Practice: use of civic wealth for common human ends precisely in order to restore ...the Christian law of love of neighbor and faith in God’s charity that modernity has displaced by its reliance instead on the forces of self-interest.
IT’S OKAY TO BE A ‘BAD’ CATHOLIC
Society thinks Catholics look and behave a certain way. But people of faith don't easily fit stereotypes.
Society thinks Catholics look and behave a certain way. But people of faith don't easily fit stereotypes.
THE 7TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE POPE WHO ACCOMPANIES US
The 7th anniversary of Pope Francis’ pontificate comes in the midst of the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis.
The 7th anniversary of Pope Francis’ pontificate comes in the midst of the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis.
STILL, WE FIND WAYS TO CONNECT
The paradoxes pile up today. We're forced to understand our common humanity, an understanding made possible technologically as never before. Yet we are forced to stay away from one another.
The paradoxes pile up today. We're forced to understand our common humanity, an understanding made possible technologically as never before. Yet we are forced to stay away from one another.
WAY STATIONS FOR A PILGRIM CHURCH: THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE OF AMERICAN PARISHES
Parish closures and consolidations are reshaping territorial boundaries, throwing once-disparate communities together, scattering others, and leaving many feeling pastorally abandoned and spiritually homeless.
Parish closures and consolidations are reshaping territorial boundaries, throwing once-disparate communities together, scattering others, and leaving many feeling pastorally abandoned and spiritually homeless.
COMMON SENSE ISN’T ENOUGH
Our human biases resist the hard truths about social distancing, but can the pandemic cure us of our bad habits of mind?
Our human biases resist the hard truths about social distancing, but can the pandemic cure us of our bad habits of mind?
THE AMERICAN PARISH TODAY
When it comes to the state of the Catholic parish, we tend to focus on the bad news: closed churches, declining vocations, dwindling congregations, and even parochial mergers and closures. But that’s not the whole story.
When it comes to the state of the Catholic parish, we tend to focus on the bad news: closed churches, declining vocations, dwindling congregations, and even parochial mergers and closures. But that’s not the whole story.
CHURCH LEADERS NEED TO PREPARE FOR REALITIES OF ‘POST-PEAK’ RESTRICTIONS
Church leaders should be thinking about these things now, brainstorming with experts on ways to safely return sacramental life to the laity, even if on a limited basis.
Church leaders should be thinking about these things now, brainstorming with experts on ways to safely return sacramental life to the laity, even if on a limited basis.
THE POPE & THE PLAGUE
Societies that pull together like this, putting the vulnerable first, can achieve extraordinary things. And if we can do it to combat COVID-19, why not also climate change, infant mortality, or war?
Societies that pull together like this, putting the vulnerable first, can achieve extraordinary things. And if we can do it to combat COVID-19, why not also climate change, infant mortality, or war?
POPE FRANCIS HOPES AFTER PANDEMIC, HUMANITY HAS ‘ANTIBODIES OF JUSTICE, CHARITY’
With Christ’s passion and that of “our brothers and sisters, even living our own passion, our ears will hear the newness of the Resurrection: we are not alone...
With Christ’s passion and that of “our brothers and sisters, even living our own passion, our ears will hear the newness of the Resurrection: we are not alone...
BEYOND SOCIAL FALLOUT, VATICAN FACES SPIRITUAL AND PASTORAL RECOVERY TOO
The Vatican the creation of five working groups intended to face both immediate needs and the challenges of reconstruction once the crisis begins to ebb.
The Vatican the creation of five working groups intended to face both immediate needs and the challenges of reconstruction once the crisis begins to ebb.
AN EASTER WITHOUT EUCHARIST CANNOT KEEP CHRIST FROM BEING AMONG US
Christians around the world this year experienced the unthinkable: Easter season without Eucharist. The most sacred of celebrations in the Christian calendar occurred right at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic...
Christians around the world this year experienced the unthinkable: Easter season without Eucharist. The most sacred of celebrations in the Christian calendar occurred right at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic...
PREPARE NOW FOR POST-PANDEMIC MINISTRY, CHURCH PROFESSIONALS URGE
Now is the time for parishes and dioceses to find ways to creatively keep the faithful engaged when the weekslong coronavirus hibernation ends
Now is the time for parishes and dioceses to find ways to creatively keep the faithful engaged when the weekslong coronavirus hibernation ends
HOW SOCIAL DISTANCING MAY CHANGE THE WAY WE DO CHURCH
In the pandemic, American Catholics are experiencing the Eucharistic famine that much of the rest of the world has known for generations.
In the pandemic, American Catholics are experiencing the Eucharistic famine that much of the rest of the world has known for generations.
WE’RE ALL MONKS NOW
Because of Covid-19, many of us are living, in a way, like monks, enclosed and isolated in our homes. But unlike the monks, we did not ask for or want this situation, nor it is one for which many of us were spiritually prepared.
Because of Covid-19, many of us are living, in a way, like monks, enclosed and isolated in our homes. But unlike the monks, we did not ask for or want this situation, nor it is one for which many of us were spiritually prepared.
WHAT THE FIRST CHRISTIANS CAN TEACH US ABOUT MISSING THE SACRAMENTS AND STILL GROWING IN FAITH
Risking the transmission of a deadly disease prioritizes personal spiritual needs over solidarity with the body of Christ who stands to suffer.
Risking the transmission of a deadly disease prioritizes personal spiritual needs over solidarity with the body of Christ who stands to suffer.
LONELINESS, DISCONNECTION, AND OUR DIVINE VOCATION
Without a reference to human nature, and the specific inclination to live in community as essential for its flourishing, the prescriptive for civic decline can fall on deaf ears.
Without a reference to human nature, and the specific inclination to live in community as essential for its flourishing, the prescriptive for civic decline can fall on deaf ears.
LIKE “CACIO E PEPE”, RESTARTING THE CHURCH SEEMS SIMPLE BUT IT’S TRICKY
That’s because you have to get the sequence, the timing and the mix just right, and a tiny error can have disastrous consequences.
That’s because you have to get the sequence, the timing and the mix just right, and a tiny error can have disastrous consequences.
CATHOLIC PARISH LIFE (AS WE KNEW IT) IS NOT COMING BACK ANYTIME SOON
There are still many unanswered questions, but interviews with physicians, public health experts, priests and diocesan leaders all elicited at least one common refrain: Even when public Masses resume, parish life will not feel normal for a while.
There are still many unanswered questions, but interviews with physicians, public health experts, priests and diocesan leaders all elicited at least one common refrain: Even when public Masses resume, parish life will not feel normal for a while.
‘HOW’ OF GOING BACK TO MASS MAY BE JUST AS MESSY AS ‘WHEN’
If early returns are any indication, the way in which the Mass ban is lifted may turn out to be just as controversial, and just as messy, as imposing it in the first place.
If early returns are any indication, the way in which the Mass ban is lifted may turn out to be just as controversial, and just as messy, as imposing it in the first place.
SEX, WOMEN, POWER. THE THREE CHALLENGES GERMANY IS ISSUING TO THE CHURCH
The coronavirus pandemic has made the “synodal path” of the Church of Germany disappear from the news. But meanwhile it continues forward.
The coronavirus pandemic has made the “synodal path” of the Church of Germany disappear from the news. But meanwhile it continues forward.
NAMING THE DEHUMANIZING AGENDA OF SOME CHRISTIANS
It's worth remembering that the Gospels consistently portray Jesus Christ reserving his harshest criticism and condemnation for religious hypocrites. We have to hold one another accountable.
It's worth remembering that the Gospels consistently portray Jesus Christ reserving his harshest criticism and condemnation for religious hypocrites. We have to hold one another accountable.
TAKE IT PERSONALLY
How to Keep the Pandemic from Becoming an Abstraction: the proper response to the pandemic is ...political action aimed at protecting the most vulnerable of our brothers and sisters... Do that and maybe then we’ll have a right to say, “We’re all in this together.”
How to Keep the Pandemic from Becoming an Abstraction: the proper response to the pandemic is ...political action aimed at protecting the most vulnerable of our brothers and sisters... Do that and maybe then we’ll have a right to say, “We’re all in this together.”
EUROPE'S CATHOLIC CHURCH AWAITS NEW LIFE AFTER CORONAVIRUS LOCKDOWN
Different countries have different dates, guidelines for opening Mass
Different countries have different dates, guidelines for opening Mass
AMERICAN CATHOLICS, MEET THE COMMUNION SERVICE
When churches begin opening, social distancing will allow fewer people to attend Mass at the same time, which means more services will be required.
When churches begin opening, social distancing will allow fewer people to attend Mass at the same time, which means more services will be required.
INVITATION TO SOLIDARITY
The hidden nature of systemic oppression makes it all the more remarkable that the revelation of God in the Bible is written from the perspective of the oppressed.
The hidden nature of systemic oppression makes it all the more remarkable that the revelation of God in the Bible is written from the perspective of the oppressed.
WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE, JESUS OR THE SPIRIT?
It is the Spirit that makes us Jesus, makes us the body of Christ. It is the Spirit that gives us life and fills us with love. It is not enough for us to be with Jesus; we must become Jesus, and we can only do that with the power of the Spirit.
It is the Spirit that makes us Jesus, makes us the body of Christ. It is the Spirit that gives us life and fills us with love. It is not enough for us to be with Jesus; we must become Jesus, and we can only do that with the power of the Spirit.
AS CHURCHES REOPEN, LET’S NOT GO BACK TO THE OLD ‘NORMAL’
We now have more ways to connect, and we intend to keep using them. That livestream is here to stay. This way of being community is not going away, once in-person worship is again possible.
We now have more ways to connect, and we intend to keep using them. That livestream is here to stay. This way of being community is not going away, once in-person worship is again possible.
IS THE CHURCH DOING ENOUGH TO WELCOME ITS NEURODIVERSE MEMBERS?
The body of Christ is made up of all of us. Talk with parents of kids living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) about finding a church home, and one ominous phrase often repeats: “A few years later, we tried again.”
The body of Christ is made up of all of us. Talk with parents of kids living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) about finding a church home, and one ominous phrase often repeats: “A few years later, we tried again.”
PARISHES MUST CHANGE POST-PANDEMIC
Will they come back? That's the question on the minds of parish leaders in the 17,000 American Catholic churches as the U.S. begins a return to a new normal post-pandemic life.
Will they come back? That's the question on the minds of parish leaders in the 17,000 American Catholic churches as the U.S. begins a return to a new normal post-pandemic life.
SUCCESSFUL PARISHES ARE MISSIONARY, EMPHASIZE LAY LEADERSHIP
By embracing co-responsibility and diversity, parishes and pastoral leaders will find new ways to “Open Wide the Doors of Christ,” both “literally and figuratively.”
By embracing co-responsibility and diversity, parishes and pastoral leaders will find new ways to “Open Wide the Doors of Christ,” both “literally and figuratively.”
CATHOLICS BROUGHT 'CLOSER TO GOD' BY COVID-19
Almost all Catholics in Britain have watched livestreamed Masses during lockdown, according to a new survey, but the majority will not continue doing so once normal church life returns.
Almost all Catholics in Britain have watched livestreamed Masses during lockdown, according to a new survey, but the majority will not continue doing so once normal church life returns.
‘EPIDEMIC’ OF CATHOLIC SCHOOL CLOSURES IN U.S.
The economic fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic is hitting Catholic education hard as more than 100 elementary and high schools have announced they are shuttering.
The economic fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic is hitting Catholic education hard as more than 100 elementary and high schools have announced they are shuttering.
MILLENNIALS ARE SEEKING SPIRITUAL COMMUNITY. WHERE ARE THEY FINDING IT?
Alternative and experimental communities are popping up across the United States —in gyms, storefronts, and restaurants, around dining room tables, and on Zoom calls. They aim to meet a key yearning: the desire for community.
Alternative and experimental communities are popping up across the United States —in gyms, storefronts, and restaurants, around dining room tables, and on Zoom calls. They aim to meet a key yearning: the desire for community.
RECOMMITTING TO A MOMENT OF TRANSFORMATION
The brief meeting between the Pope and the Professor was thus an enormously transformative moment. It gave rise to a “journey of friendship”, as Pope Francis has described it, that has blessed Catholics and Jews ever since.
The brief meeting between the Pope and the Professor was thus an enormously transformative moment. It gave rise to a “journey of friendship”, as Pope Francis has described it, that has blessed Catholics and Jews ever since.
THE PARISH AT THE SERVICE OF EVANGELIZATION
The urgency of missionary renewal, a pastoral conversion of the parish, so that the faithful may rediscover the dynamism and creativity which allows the parish to be always "going forth", aided by the contribution of all the baptized faithful.
The urgency of missionary renewal, a pastoral conversion of the parish, so that the faithful may rediscover the dynamism and creativity which allows the parish to be always "going forth", aided by the contribution of all the baptized faithful.
DISSECTING POPE FRANCIS’ CALL FOR “PASTORAL CONVERSION”
Instead of proposing creative changes for re-envisioning the diocese-territorial parish structure that is no longer sustainable, it actually goes on to reaffirm this Tridentine model.
Instead of proposing creative changes for re-envisioning the diocese-territorial parish structure that is no longer sustainable, it actually goes on to reaffirm this Tridentine model.
BISHOP MCELROY'S HOPEFUL VISION FOR A CHURCH TRANSFORMED
The pandemic has transformed the landscape of our ecclesial life in ways that will permanently change the nature of pastoral action and evangelization.
The pandemic has transformed the landscape of our ecclesial life in ways that will permanently change the nature of pastoral action and evangelization.
THE PANDEMIC’S LESSONS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR COMMON LIFE
If we are to delight in the recovery of common life, we need to recognize how impoverished life is for those who may have long been excluded from it.
If we are to delight in the recovery of common life, we need to recognize how impoverished life is for those who may have long been excluded from it.
A WAY THROUGH THE WOODS
The possibility of never returning to previous patterns of practice, represents, not a diminution of an interaction with Jesus really present in the Eucharist, but an invitation to an enhanced relationship with Jesus, the universal Christ, really present in the whole of creation.
The possibility of never returning to previous patterns of practice, represents, not a diminution of an interaction with Jesus really present in the Eucharist, but an invitation to an enhanced relationship with Jesus, the universal Christ, really present in the whole of creation.
HOW TO PLAN PARISH EVENTS THAT FOSTER REAL FRIENDSHIPS
Whether you work in a parish, lead a committee, or volunteer in any capacity, chances are you play some role in welcoming and connecting your community.
Whether you work in a parish, lead a committee, or volunteer in any capacity, chances are you play some role in welcoming and connecting your community.
‘TONGUES AS OF FIRE’
The Church’s gathering as a unity in which persons of all social classes and races are Christ to each other has a profound metaphysical basis.
The Church’s gathering as a unity in which persons of all social classes and races are Christ to each other has a profound metaphysical basis.
PROGRESSIVE MILLENNIALS OFFER THE CHURCH MUCH HOPE AND PROMISE
Dismantling the trappings of the church so that the meaning of its most fundamental symbols is "so transparent that no one would ever say, 'It's lovely, but what does it mean?' ".
Dismantling the trappings of the church so that the meaning of its most fundamental symbols is "so transparent that no one would ever say, 'It's lovely, but what does it mean?' ".
THE CHANGING FACE OF THE CHURCH
ch is leading to encounters and conversations between Catholics of different generations that are breaking down barriers and creating spaces where the faith of young and old is being shaken, stirred and enriched.
ch is leading to encounters and conversations between Catholics of different generations that are breaking down barriers and creating spaces where the faith of young and old is being shaken, stirred and enriched.
MAKE AMERICA MEEK AGAIN
Biblical prophets are blunt about how the mighty will be hurled from thrones while the lowly will be lifted up.
Biblical prophets are blunt about how the mighty will be hurled from thrones while the lowly will be lifted up.
TIMOTHY SCHMALZ'S SCULPTURES ARE 'ONLY AS SHOCKING AS THE GOSPELS'
Seeing Jesus in the homeless, the hungry, the sick, the prisoners, the desperate refugees and migrants. An evangelist who preaches worldwide, not with his mouth, but with his hands, casting the least among us into exquisite life-size bronze sculptures.
Seeing Jesus in the homeless, the hungry, the sick, the prisoners, the desperate refugees and migrants. An evangelist who preaches worldwide, not with his mouth, but with his hands, casting the least among us into exquisite life-size bronze sculptures.
ST. JOHN HENRY NEWMAN - A MAN OF HIS TIME, A SAINT FOR OURS
He understood that truth lies outside and beyond us, yet beckons to us through our consciences, and that the end of all our strivings is not an idea but a person...
He understood that truth lies outside and beyond us, yet beckons to us through our consciences, and that the end of all our strivings is not an idea but a person...
THE TWO STANDARDS
You will find safety in Christ’s standard only if you resolutely begin everything with thanks to God and keep watching what you are doing and why you are doing it.
You will find safety in Christ’s standard only if you resolutely begin everything with thanks to God and keep watching what you are doing and why you are doing it.
HOW TO BUILD PARISH COMMUNITY AROUND JUSTICE WORK
Social action can sometimes be divisive, but parishes are called to more than charity. Including the most vulnerable in decision-making restores human dignity and helps avoid the savior complex that is often a danger in mission work.
Social action can sometimes be divisive, but parishes are called to more than charity. Including the most vulnerable in decision-making restores human dignity and helps avoid the savior complex that is often a danger in mission work.
THE NEW YOUTHFULNESS OF ITINERANT PRIESTS
From full-time itinerancy to short-term team missions, priests find new ways to reach God's people. What if the vocation of the diocesan priest was not to be the "head of the parish", assigned to one place and serving the Catholics who come him, especially for the sacraments?
From full-time itinerancy to short-term team missions, priests find new ways to reach God's people. What if the vocation of the diocesan priest was not to be the "head of the parish", assigned to one place and serving the Catholics who come him, especially for the sacraments?
AN INTERVIEW WITH POPE FRANCIS - "A TIME OF GREAT UNCERTAINTY"
"Go down into the underground, and pass from the hyper-virtual, fleshless world to the suffering flesh of the poor. This is the conversion we have to undergo."
"Go down into the underground, and pass from the hyper-virtual, fleshless world to the suffering flesh of the poor. This is the conversion we have to undergo."
‘I BELIEVE IN THE HOLY SPIRIT’
The pastor who says, “I believe in the Holy Spirit,” should ask himself some fundamental questions to discover the action of the Spirit among his faithful.
The pastor who says, “I believe in the Holy Spirit,” should ask himself some fundamental questions to discover the action of the Spirit among his faithful.
INVALIDATED BAPTISM: WHEN THEOLOGY RHYMES WITH MADNESS
There is an old adage in the Church, which takes into account the always possible weakness of ordained ministers and, more broadly, the possible errors of communities of the baptized. It is the "Ecclesia supplet".
There is an old adage in the Church, which takes into account the always possible weakness of ordained ministers and, more broadly, the possible errors of communities of the baptized. It is the "Ecclesia supplet".
SOLIDARITY NEEDED TO REBUILD POST-PANDEMIC COMMUNITY
In his catechesis at the Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis urges everyone to combine authentic solidarity with the virtue of faith in order to heal social ills in the post-pandemic world.
In his catechesis at the Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis urges everyone to combine authentic solidarity with the virtue of faith in order to heal social ills in the post-pandemic world.
PRO-TRUMP CATHOLICISM AND THE POLITICAL CONSEQUENCES OF A THEOLOGICAL CRISIS
The theological trajectory of conservative U.S. Catholicism is one of the proofs that Trump's America is not just a parenthesis
The theological trajectory of conservative U.S. Catholicism is one of the proofs that Trump's America is not just a parenthesis
BROTHERS AND SISTERS ALL!
Inclusive language is, admittedly, more of an issue in the English-speaking world than it is in Latin language cultures. How a longstanding suspicion of inclusive language is killing the Church's message.
Inclusive language is, admittedly, more of an issue in the English-speaking world than it is in Latin language cultures. How a longstanding suspicion of inclusive language is killing the Church's message.
YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE LESSONS TO TEACH THE CHURCH
“They have asked us in a thousand ways to walk alongside them — not behind them or ahead of them, but at their side. Not over them or under them, but on their level,” Pope Francis wrote in the introduction to a new book of essays about youth ministry.
“They have asked us in a thousand ways to walk alongside them — not behind them or ahead of them, but at their side. Not over them or under them, but on their level,” Pope Francis wrote in the introduction to a new book of essays about youth ministry.
FRANCIS’ GOVERNMENT: WHAT IS THE DRIVING FORCE OF HIS PONTIFICATE?
After seven years of this pontificate, what is its driving force? Some commentators and analysts have wondered if Francis’ drive still exists; others have tried to reflect on its substance.
After seven years of this pontificate, what is its driving force? Some commentators and analysts have wondered if Francis’ drive still exists; others have tried to reflect on its substance.
GOD IS BEYOND RACE AND GENDER. IT’S TIME OUR SACRED ART IS TOO
Predominantly white sacred images can inspire prejudice. Since God is beyond race and gender and historically Jesus and Mary were certainly not Nordic Europeans, constantly depicting these figures as white implicates the church in racist complicity — and religious idolatry.
Predominantly white sacred images can inspire prejudice. Since God is beyond race and gender and historically Jesus and Mary were certainly not Nordic Europeans, constantly depicting these figures as white implicates the church in racist complicity — and religious idolatry.
FOR CHRISTIANS WHO FEEL BETRAYED BY CHRISTIANITY
How can someone talk about the existence of a better life in heaven when their fellow believers are denying a better existence to people on earth?
How can someone talk about the existence of a better life in heaven when their fellow believers are denying a better existence to people on earth?
THE PROSPERITY GOSPEL: DANGEROUS AND DIFFERENT
This type of Christianity places the well-being of the believer at the center of prayer, and turns God the Creator into someone who makes the thoughts and desires of believers come true.
This type of Christianity places the well-being of the believer at the center of prayer, and turns God the Creator into someone who makes the thoughts and desires of believers come true.
THE CHURCH IS LOSING TOUCH WITH WORKING-CLASS CATHOLICS
The poorest Americans are abandoning Mass the most. It’s one of the manifestations of that deinstitutionalization, but the church should be the outlier, if we are what Jesus wants us to be. The church should be the place the poor turn away from last.
The poorest Americans are abandoning Mass the most. It’s one of the manifestations of that deinstitutionalization, but the church should be the outlier, if we are what Jesus wants us to be. The church should be the place the poor turn away from last.
THE FUTURE OF CATHOLICISM
Today, the function of the Catholic Church could consist in this: to let it show that God alone can give man the freedom to go back —first— to man himself, by giving him the freedom to resemble nothing less than God himself.
Today, the function of the Catholic Church could consist in this: to let it show that God alone can give man the freedom to go back —first— to man himself, by giving him the freedom to resemble nothing less than God himself.
CHURCH DOESN’T NEED TO SAY MORE ABOUT RACISM, IT NEEDS TO DO MORE
There are a growing number of individuals in the church — both members of the faithful and the clergy — who are aware of the racial crisis and have a desire to change things.
There are a growing number of individuals in the church — both members of the faithful and the clergy — who are aware of the racial crisis and have a desire to change things.
WITH 9 NEW ELECTORS, POPE FRANCIS REMAKES THE COLLEGE OF CARDINALS
Over seven years, Pope Francis has gradually remade the college of cardinals, making it less European and more African and Asian.
Over seven years, Pope Francis has gradually remade the college of cardinals, making it less European and more African and Asian.
SACRED VIOLENCE IS NOT YET ANCIENT HISTORY – BEATING IT WILL TAKE HUMAN ACTION, NOT DIVINE INTERVENTION
Social change happens only when individuals take a few steps. The first is to refuse to ignore pain when it is in plain sight. The final step is to take a positive action, even a simple one, to make things better.
Social change happens only when individuals take a few steps. The first is to refuse to ignore pain when it is in plain sight. The final step is to take a positive action, even a simple one, to make things better.
55 YEARS AGO, A CARDINAL’S ‘SPECIAL REVERENCE’ FOR THE JEWS REDEEMED ‘NOSTRA AETATE’
The proclamation sparked a systematic effort by the Catholic Church to transform its past bitter relationships with Jews and Judaism.
The proclamation sparked a systematic effort by the Catholic Church to transform its past bitter relationships with Jews and Judaism.
WILL I GO BACK TO MASS?
From Australia: Now that the lockdown has eased and public worship is resuming, a prominent Catholic in Australia wonders if it's really worth going back to church.
From Australia: Now that the lockdown has eased and public worship is resuming, a prominent Catholic in Australia wonders if it's really worth going back to church.
THE NEW INTEGRALISTS
"The new integralists fail to truly recognize Christ, turning him into nothing other than the capstone of another hierarchy, the authorization for one more Inquisition." Timothy Troutner insists that we cannot cede tradition to the integralists.
"The new integralists fail to truly recognize Christ, turning him into nothing other than the capstone of another hierarchy, the authorization for one more Inquisition." Timothy Troutner insists that we cannot cede tradition to the integralists.
INCREASINGLY ISOLATED YOUTH CONNECT TO FAITH THROUGH RELATIONSHIP
Young people do not see religious leaders as trusted adults, according to a new study. Only 8% of respondents ages 13-25 who are affiliated with a religious group say they have a trusted religious leader they could turn to if needed.
Young people do not see religious leaders as trusted adults, according to a new study. Only 8% of respondents ages 13-25 who are affiliated with a religious group say they have a trusted religious leader they could turn to if needed.
NEVER TOLERATE INTOLERANCE. WE ARE ONE BECAUSE OUR TEARS ARE THE SAME
Love is the supreme virtue. Love is the identity card of every human being. Christianity teaches people to love one another; that is the greatest law of life. Our enemies are our best teachers. Respect them. They have exposed our prejudices.
Love is the supreme virtue. Love is the identity card of every human being. Christianity teaches people to love one another; that is the greatest law of life. Our enemies are our best teachers. Respect them. They have exposed our prejudices.
JEREMIAH, THE WOUNDED PROPHET OF CHURCH UNITY
The experience of the Old Testament figure Jeremiah with God and his people makes this prophet a fitting model for unity in a divided world. The way Jeremiah worked for and embodied the spirit of unity can be instructive for our response to the difficulties of our present time.
The experience of the Old Testament figure Jeremiah with God and his people makes this prophet a fitting model for unity in a divided world. The way Jeremiah worked for and embodied the spirit of unity can be instructive for our response to the difficulties of our present time.
THE FRANCIS EFFECT PODCAST: AFTER THE ELECTION, BEFORE A VACCINE
NCR executive editor Heidi Schlumpf joins "The Francis Effect" podcast, with co-hosts Franciscan Fr. Dan Horan (columnist for NCR's "Faith Seeking Understanding") and David Dault, executive producer and host of "Things Not Seen: Conversations about Culture and Faith."
NCR executive editor Heidi Schlumpf joins "The Francis Effect" podcast, with co-hosts Franciscan Fr. Dan Horan (columnist for NCR's "Faith Seeking Understanding") and David Dault, executive producer and host of "Things Not Seen: Conversations about Culture and Faith."
BLUEPRINT FOR A HUMANE ECONOMY: WHAT POPE FRANCIS CAN TEACH THE LEFT
Pope Francis has laid-out a blueprint for a more humane economy, one in which the ideas of community and human flourishing take centre-stage.
Pope Francis has laid-out a blueprint for a more humane economy, one in which the ideas of community and human flourishing take centre-stage.
WE ARE MEANT FOR EACH OTHER
Community — communion — is the fundamental building block of the Catholic faith. Christ draws us into himself to create the community of believers, a cloud of witnesses.
Community — communion — is the fundamental building block of the Catholic faith. Christ draws us into himself to create the community of believers, a cloud of witnesses.
POPE FRANCIS THE DREAMER
Pope Francis often asks us to dream. It is, therefore, fitting, that the title of his latest book is Let Us Dream: The Path to a Better Future. What he means is that we are called "to make God’s dreams come true in this world."
Pope Francis often asks us to dream. It is, therefore, fitting, that the title of his latest book is Let Us Dream: The Path to a Better Future. What he means is that we are called "to make God’s dreams come true in this world."
POPE FRANCIS: A CRISIS REVEALS WHAT IS IN OUR HEARTS
To come out of this crisis better, we have to recover the knowledge that as a people we have a shared destination. The pandemic has reminded us that no one is saved alone.
To come out of this crisis better, we have to recover the knowledge that as a people we have a shared destination. The pandemic has reminded us that no one is saved alone.
RADICAL TRUTHS
Pope Francis’s latest encyclical breaks little new ground, but the ground upon which we all stand has shifted to such an extent that talk of “fraternal love” sounds both outdated and revolutionary.
Pope Francis’s latest encyclical breaks little new ground, but the ground upon which we all stand has shifted to such an extent that talk of “fraternal love” sounds both outdated and revolutionary.
WITH PEWS EMPTIED BY COVID-19, A CATHOLIC RESEARCHER ASKS, ‘WHAT IF THEY NEVER COME BACK?’
COVID-19 safety measures and social distancing have put further strain on many Catholic churches and parishes that have already seen their flocks dwindling. While many hope things will go back to “normal” once a vaccine is available, one researcher asks: “What if they never come back?”
COVID-19 safety measures and social distancing have put further strain on many Catholic churches and parishes that have already seen their flocks dwindling. While many hope things will go back to “normal” once a vaccine is available, one researcher asks: “What if they never come back?”
WITH A FATHER’S HEART: THE YEAR OF ST. JOSEPH
On December 8th, 1870 - 150 years ago today - Pope Pius IX declared St. Joseph the Patron of the Universal Church. In honor of the anniversary, Pope Francis announced a Year of St. Joseph, that... will be celebrated through December 8th, 2021.
On December 8th, 1870 - 150 years ago today - Pope Pius IX declared St. Joseph the Patron of the Universal Church. In honor of the anniversary, Pope Francis announced a Year of St. Joseph, that... will be celebrated through December 8th, 2021.
THE TOP 7 POPE FRANCIS STORIES OF 2020
This past year brought on special challenges as Pope Francis provided global moral leadership through the coronavirus pandemic. Yet amid the restrictions and upheaval, the pope continued his efforts to reform the church and strengthen its missionary zeal.
This past year brought on special challenges as Pope Francis provided global moral leadership through the coronavirus pandemic. Yet amid the restrictions and upheaval, the pope continued his efforts to reform the church and strengthen its missionary zeal.
CHRISTMAS MESSAGE AND URBI ET ORBI BLESSING
From the Hall of Benedictions, in the Vatican,the Holy Father’s Christmas Message and “Urbi et Orbi” Blessing. Christmas reminds us we are all united as brothers and sisters.
From the Hall of Benedictions, in the Vatican,the Holy Father’s Christmas Message and “Urbi et Orbi” Blessing. Christmas reminds us we are all united as brothers and sisters.
POPE FRANCIS' GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT TO US ALL
Christmas came early twice this year for Catholics in the United States, says Michael Sean Winters. And we have Pope Francis to thank for it.
Christmas came early twice this year for Catholics in the United States, says Michael Sean Winters. And we have Pope Francis to thank for it.
SPIRITUAL COMMUNION AND SOLIDARITY
Connecting to each other through digital media was an indeed an opportunity for the Church. Yet we must remember this is not the way the Church should function in normal circumstances, as Pope Francis indicated in an April homily.
Connecting to each other through digital media was an indeed an opportunity for the Church. Yet we must remember this is not the way the Church should function in normal circumstances, as Pope Francis indicated in an April homily.
REALITIES ARE GREATER THAN IDEAS
Pope Francis is asking us to work within the reality, not to imagine that we can impose ideas on everyone else. Sadly, many Catholics can’t handle that.
Pope Francis is asking us to work within the reality, not to imagine that we can impose ideas on everyone else. Sadly, many Catholics can’t handle that.
2020 HAS TESTED THE HEART AND SOUL OF AMERICA
Pope Francis says that a crisis makes us either better or worse; it is impossible to remain the same. In a crisis, the pope writes, "you reveal your own heart: how solid it is, how merciful, how big or small."
Pope Francis says that a crisis makes us either better or worse; it is impossible to remain the same. In a crisis, the pope writes, "you reveal your own heart: how solid it is, how merciful, how big or small."
AS 2020 ENDS, REJECT A WHITEWASHED JESUS AND ENCOUNTER THE REAL CHRIST
Commentary from Matt Kappadakunnel: "For many Catholics of color, worship spaces that exclusively use white images to portray our faith contribute to the white supremacist undercurrents in the American church."
Commentary from Matt Kappadakunnel: "For many Catholics of color, worship spaces that exclusively use white images to portray our faith contribute to the white supremacist undercurrents in the American church."
US BISHOPS CONDEMN ATTACK ON CAPITOL AND ASK FOR PRAYERS
U.S. Catholic bishops unanimously condemn the violence that engulfed the United States Capitol, which left four people dead and many injured.
U.S. Catholic bishops unanimously condemn the violence that engulfed the United States Capitol, which left four people dead and many injured.
CATHOLICS AND LUTHERANS REAFFIRM COMMITMENT TO COMMUNION
The Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the Lutheran World Federation underscore their commitment to walk together on their common journey from conflict to communion.
The Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and the Lutheran World Federation underscore their commitment to walk together on their common journey from conflict to communion.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2021 IN THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH IN THE U.S.
What will the new year bring in the life of the church in the United States? We never know what unforeseen events will enlighten or becloud all else. But [there are] a few major themes that will shape 2021.
What will the new year bring in the life of the church in the United States? We never know what unforeseen events will enlighten or becloud all else. But [there are] a few major themes that will shape 2021.
WHAT FOUR STRANGERS OF DIFFERENT FAITHS LEARNED WHILE LIVING TOGETHER DURING A PANDEMIC
Hadar Cohen, Ala’ Khan, Maya Mansour and Jonathan Simcosky were chosen as fellows for an interfaith experiment known as the Abrahamic House. They come from different faiths...
Hadar Cohen, Ala’ Khan, Maya Mansour and Jonathan Simcosky were chosen as fellows for an interfaith experiment known as the Abrahamic House. They come from different faiths...
SPIRITUS DOMINI: DEVELOPMENT IN CONTINUITY
Pope Francis’s motu proprio Spiritus Domini—which opens up the instituted ministries of lector and acolyte to women that had been previously restricted to men—reflects a significant theological development and is worth considering at a deeper level.
Pope Francis’s motu proprio Spiritus Domini—which opens up the instituted ministries of lector and acolyte to women that had been previously restricted to men—reflects a significant theological development and is worth considering at a deeper level.
AT AMANDA GORMAN’S BLACK CATHOLIC LA PARISH, ‘IT’S LIKE EVERYBODY HERE IS A FREEDOM FIGHTER’
Poet Amanda Gorman sang in the youth choir, did her sacraments and recited her poetry at an Afrocentric Catholic church in South Central Los Angeles.
Poet Amanda Gorman sang in the youth choir, did her sacraments and recited her poetry at an Afrocentric Catholic church in South Central Los Angeles.
WHEN IT COMES TO BUILDING TRUST, BELONGING BEATS BELIEF, STUDY FINDS
A new study found that those who belong to a religious group or go to services have higher levels of trust than those who have stronger individual belief.
A new study found that those who belong to a religious group or go to services have higher levels of trust than those who have stronger individual belief.
THE INADEQUACY OF WORDS
When we presume we know fully, we can all be very arrogant and goal oriented at the expense of other people. When we know we don’t know fully, we are much more concerned about practical, loving behavior.
When we presume we know fully, we can all be very arrogant and goal oriented at the expense of other people. When we know we don’t know fully, we are much more concerned about practical, loving behavior.
LIBERAL CATHOLICISM: WE'VE BEEN HERE ALL ALONG
They are the gray-haired old-timers at church reform organizations and parishes. They are the young Catholics taking their first theology course at a Catholic college or university — and the theologians teaching those classes. They are the retired priests, sisters and even some bishops who have spent their lives working for social justice.
They are the gray-haired old-timers at church reform organizations and parishes. They are the young Catholics taking their first theology course at a Catholic college or university — and the theologians teaching those classes. They are the retired priests, sisters and even some bishops who have spent their lives working for social justice.
POPE CRITICISES CATHOLICS WHO REJECT VATICAN II
Either you are with the Church and therefore you follow the council, or you interpret it in your own away – according to your desire – [and] you do not stand with the Church.
Either you are with the Church and therefore you follow the council, or you interpret it in your own away – according to your desire – [and] you do not stand with the Church.
THE ‘ON EAGLE’S WINGS’ DEBATE IS REALLY ABOUT HOW CATHOLICS WILL TREAT EACH OTHER UNDER PRESIDENT BIDEN
The “On Eagle’s Wings” debate was never just about a hymn. The controversy over the song has come and gone. But the episode has a lasting warning for us.
The “On Eagle’s Wings” debate was never just about a hymn. The controversy over the song has come and gone. But the episode has a lasting warning for us.
LIBERAL CATHOLICS AND THE TEMPTATION OF SECTARIANISM
The Holy Spirit is at work in every human heart, liberal hearts and conservative hearts, among extroverts and introverts, beckoning the cautious and the carefree.
The Holy Spirit is at work in every human heart, liberal hearts and conservative hearts, among extroverts and introverts, beckoning the cautious and the carefree.
WHAT KIND OF CATHOLIC?
If faith really means something to us, we have to engage it, not only when we agree but especially when we don't. There's no need to judge each other. We have a God who will do that for each one of us with both justice and mercy. And we all have mirrors.
If faith really means something to us, we have to engage it, not only when we agree but especially when we don't. There's no need to judge each other. We have a God who will do that for each one of us with both justice and mercy. And we all have mirrors.
ANTI-RACISM IS PART OF CATHOLIC IDENTITY ON THESE CAMPUSES
Catholic colleges and universities around the country are taking anti-oppression measures to heart. One of the most difficult concepts for people to grasp is the difference between racism as an individual problem and as a societal one.
Catholic colleges and universities around the country are taking anti-oppression measures to heart. One of the most difficult concepts for people to grasp is the difference between racism as an individual problem and as a societal one.
OPPOSITION TO FRANCIS ROOTED IN OPPOSITION TO VATICAN II
Catechesis is taking others by the hand and accompanying them in this history. It inspires up a journey, in which each person finds his or her own rhythm, because Christian life does not even out or standardize, but rather enhances the uniqueness of each child of God.
Catechesis is taking others by the hand and accompanying them in this history. It inspires up a journey, in which each person finds his or her own rhythm, because Christian life does not even out or standardize, but rather enhances the uniqueness of each child of God.
‘FRATELLI TUTTI’: OUR GREAT CHALLENGE
Social friendship is based on the principles of the common good for each and every person and for the environment in which we live and move and have our being.
Social friendship is based on the principles of the common good for each and every person and for the environment in which we live and move and have our being.
RICHARD ROHR ON POPE FRANCIS, ORIGINAL SIN AND GIVING UP NOTHING FOR LENT
In this wide-ranging interview, Father Richard Rohr talks about Pope Francis, how we should think about original sin and why we don’t need to give anything up this Lent (except maybe our ego).
In this wide-ranging interview, Father Richard Rohr talks about Pope Francis, how we should think about original sin and why we don’t need to give anything up this Lent (except maybe our ego).
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS IN THE US FACE STEEPEST DECLINE IN STUDENT ENROLMENT SINCE 1970S
School closures disproportionately affected underserved and non-Catholic families. Catholic schools, the report notes, were historically setup to serve immigrant or marginalised families.
School closures disproportionately affected underserved and non-Catholic families. Catholic schools, the report notes, were historically setup to serve immigrant or marginalised families.
AUSTRALIAN BISHOPS RELEASE WORKING DOCUMENT FOR OCTOBER PLENARY COUNCIL
There’s a need for a greater expression of the co-responsibility of all the baptized if the church (in Australia) is to take the mission to evangelize seriously in the decades ahead.
There’s a need for a greater expression of the co-responsibility of all the baptized if the church (in Australia) is to take the mission to evangelize seriously in the decades ahead.
BEYOND THE PANDEMIC: CATHOLIC SCHOOLS CAN COME BACK, BIGGER AND BETTER
While many young people have lost faith in religious institutions, they have lost faith in almost all institutions. What could God do with a Church that was committed to building institutions to help grow the spiritual seeds in young people?
While many young people have lost faith in religious institutions, they have lost faith in almost all institutions. What could God do with a Church that was committed to building institutions to help grow the spiritual seeds in young people?
RESIST TODAY’S THROWAWAY CULTURE WITH THIS ANCIENT PRACTICE
A modern-day gleaning network addresses issues of food waste and food insecurity.
A modern-day gleaning network addresses issues of food waste and food insecurity.
POOR PARISHES AND DIOCESES FACE PRECARIOUS POST-PANDEMIC WORLD
We need to make sure not just for this year, but for the long term, Catholic institutions are strong because of the work they do educating, serving the poor and providing hope to people in incredibly hopeless situations.
We need to make sure not just for this year, but for the long term, Catholic institutions are strong because of the work they do educating, serving the poor and providing hope to people in incredibly hopeless situations.
A DEEPER LOOK AT CATHOLIC SCHOOLS' PANDEMIC ENROLLMENT PLUNGE
The plunge is the largest decline since record keeping began in the early 1970s and exceeded the drops that followed 2008 financial crisis and the clergy sex abuse scandal.
The plunge is the largest decline since record keeping began in the early 1970s and exceeded the drops that followed 2008 financial crisis and the clergy sex abuse scandal.
HOW BIG MONEY IS DIVIDING AMERICAN CATHOLICISM
The extreme financial imbalance is something more than merely another factor in the culture war within Catholicism. It is in an important sense the cause of the war itself.
The extreme financial imbalance is something more than merely another factor in the culture war within Catholicism. It is in an important sense the cause of the war itself.
SOME CHURCH THINGS SHOULDN'T RETURN TO 'NORMAL' AFTER THE PANDEMIC
We should not rush to return to some mere status quo as if everything was just fine in February 2020; that includes our church.
We should not rush to return to some mere status quo as if everything was just fine in February 2020; that includes our church.
POLICING THE COMMUNION LINE - WHY SACRAMENTAL RIGORISM BACKFIRES
[The Church] has decided against such policing not for practical reasons, but for principled ones: such a practice fails to respect the dignity and conscience of the members of the body of Christ.
[The Church] has decided against such policing not for practical reasons, but for principled ones: such a practice fails to respect the dignity and conscience of the members of the body of Christ.
A WELCOME INTERRUPTION
The new book, Church, Interrupted does not seek to be a systematic chronology of the Francis years. It is too perceptive, personal, quirky, and emotionally involved, which turns out to be its strength.
The new book, Church, Interrupted does not seek to be a systematic chronology of the Francis years. It is too perceptive, personal, quirky, and emotionally involved, which turns out to be its strength.
EACH CATHOLIC CULTURE BREWS A CONTROVERSY MADE TO ORDER
Catholic experience is a constant interplay between the universal and the local, a few basic constants refracted and lived out in a stunning myriad of different milieu.
Catholic experience is a constant interplay between the universal and the local, a few basic constants refracted and lived out in a stunning myriad of different milieu.
ST. CATHERINE OF SIENA: TO LOVE THE CHURCH IS TO LONG FOR HER RENEWAL
The idea of reform, is fundamental. The Church should renew herself in each epoch, not in her divine structure but in her members, putting on the new man...
The idea of reform, is fundamental. The Church should renew herself in each epoch, not in her divine structure but in her members, putting on the new man...
DISCERNING THE GRAIN OF WHEAT
As the pandemic begins to enter a new phase of hope, the Spirit questions us. What good and beautiful things have you discovered? What weeds are there to pull?
As the pandemic begins to enter a new phase of hope, the Spirit questions us. What good and beautiful things have you discovered? What weeds are there to pull?
POPE FRANCIS’ ‘AMORIS LAETITIA’ AT 5 YEARS
Five years after the release of “Amoris Laetitia,” what is the legacy of the pope’s controversial document on marriage and family life?
Five years after the release of “Amoris Laetitia,” what is the legacy of the pope’s controversial document on marriage and family life?
SHARING GOODS NOT COMMUNISM BUT ‘PURE CHRISTIANITY,’ POPE SAYS
The Acts of the Apostles relate that ‘no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common.’ This is not communism, but pure Christianity,
The Acts of the Apostles relate that ‘no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common.’ This is not communism, but pure Christianity,
THE USCCB PARODY TWITTER ACCOUNT ASKED PEOPLE TO SHARE WHEN THEY FELT LEAST AT HOME IN THE CHURCH
The invitation to share moments of exclusion and hurt at the hands of the church generated a significant response.
The invitation to share moments of exclusion and hurt at the hands of the church generated a significant response.
POPE FRANCIS CALLS FOR UNITY IN THE CHURCH DURING COVID CRISIS
Being “imprisoned” in the Vatican and unable to resume his regular schedule due to Italy’s COVID-19 lockdown does not mean Pope Francis has quieted down.
Being “imprisoned” in the Vatican and unable to resume his regular schedule due to Italy’s COVID-19 lockdown does not mean Pope Francis has quieted down.
5 TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE MUSIC MINISTRY
Music ministry is about more than singing the correct notes - if liturgy is the work of the people, we must make sure it is the work of all the people.
Music ministry is about more than singing the correct notes - if liturgy is the work of the people, we must make sure it is the work of all the people.
DO YOU LOVE THE CHURCH BUT SOMETIMES HATE IT?
We cannot not love the church, for the church is Christ’s. But we legitimately and understandably cannot love what much of the church has become in many places.
We cannot not love the church, for the church is Christ’s. But we legitimately and understandably cannot love what much of the church has become in many places.
JANE GOODALL SAYS POPE FRANCIS IS A ‘REASON FOR HOPE’ IN THE FUTURE
World-renowned English anthropologist Jane Goodall has joined her voice to the Vatican’s in calling for the defense of biodiversity...
World-renowned English anthropologist Jane Goodall has joined her voice to the Vatican’s in calling for the defense of biodiversity...
WHITHER THE RELIGIOUS LEFT?
Left-leaning people of faith will never be reliable allies of the Democratic Party, nor will the party reliably offer them a comfortable home. But their fortunes are linked.
Left-leaning people of faith will never be reliable allies of the Democratic Party, nor will the party reliably offer them a comfortable home. But their fortunes are linked.
WE NEED TO TALK: HEALING OUR DEEPLY DIVIDED CHURCH AND COUNTRY
The divisions in our country are deep on issues like racism and economic inequality, as well as on education, cultural values and lifestyles. Likewise, our church is divided. What are communicators to do in the face of these divisions?
The divisions in our country are deep on issues like racism and economic inequality, as well as on education, cultural values and lifestyles. Likewise, our church is divided. What are communicators to do in the face of these divisions?
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING HAPPY
Turn on the news these days and you may be hard-pressed to find a reason to be happy. COVID-19 and social unrest have taken over our feeds and our joy.
Turn on the news these days and you may be hard-pressed to find a reason to be happy. COVID-19 and social unrest have taken over our feeds and our joy.
WEAPONIZING THE EUCHARIST: THE BISHOPS, NOT BIDEN, CAUSE SCANDAL
Biden is a sinner because we all are sinners, but to assess the state of his soul when he approaches the altar requires seeing what it is difficult to detect in ourselves, let alone in another person.
Biden is a sinner because we all are sinners, but to assess the state of his soul when he approaches the altar requires seeing what it is difficult to detect in ourselves, let alone in another person.
CATHOLIC BISHOPS WHO WANT TO DENY BIDEN COMMUNION MAY HAVE TO RECKON WITH THE POPE
Having to reckon with Catholic laity who disagree and a pope who has insisted the sacrament is “not a prize for the perfect.”
Having to reckon with Catholic laity who disagree and a pope who has insisted the sacrament is “not a prize for the perfect.”
BISHOP MCELROY: THE EUCHARIST IS BEING WEAPONIZED FOR POLITICAL ENDS. THIS MUST NOT HAPPEN
It will bring tremendously destructive consequences—not because of what it says about abortion, but because of what it says about the Eucharist.
It will bring tremendously destructive consequences—not because of what it says about abortion, but because of what it says about the Eucharist.
BISHOPS AT LOGGERHEADS OVER COMMUNION FOR BIDEN
The campaign to get the US bishops’ conference to adopt a document effectively barring President Joe Biden from Communion burst into the open last week...
The campaign to get the US bishops’ conference to adopt a document effectively barring President Joe Biden from Communion burst into the open last week...
THE BIDEN COMMUNION STORIES ARE STUPID
Journalists, here’s your answer: This is a stupid story for canonical, theological and political reasons.
Journalists, here’s your answer: This is a stupid story for canonical, theological and political reasons.
VATICAN CARDINAL: DENYING COMMUNION IS UP TO INDIVIDUAL BISHOPS
Decisions about administering the Eucharist rest solely on the bishop giving the sacrament.
Decisions about administering the Eucharist rest solely on the bishop giving the sacrament.
TRANSFORMING FORGIVENESS
Sometimes only a loving kind of attention provides an awareness that reveals deeper insights than any available to neutral detachment.
Sometimes only a loving kind of attention provides an awareness that reveals deeper insights than any available to neutral detachment.
NO ONE CAN WIN THE COMMUNION WARS OVER ABORTION
Such efforts are far more likely to entrench partisan divisions ever deeper into the life of the church than they are to draw hearts and minds to the cause of defending unborn life.
Such efforts are far more likely to entrench partisan divisions ever deeper into the life of the church than they are to draw hearts and minds to the cause of defending unborn life.
WITH NEW MINISTRY OF CATECHIST, POPE FRANCIS WIDENS ROLE FOR LAY CATHOLICS
The latest motu proprio signals a continued, albeit timid, effort to answer a growing demand for agency from rank-and-file Catholics.
The latest motu proprio signals a continued, albeit timid, effort to answer a growing demand for agency from rank-and-file Catholics.
IN CATHOLIC CULTURE, KITCHEN AND ALTAR BOTH SACRAMENTAL VENUES
Rome is a place where food and faith belong together, where the kitchen and the altar express the same basic sacramental instinct.
Rome is a place where food and faith belong together, where the kitchen and the altar express the same basic sacramental instinct.
WHOSE SYNODALITY? SOCIAL ALLIANCES AND INSTITUTIONAL MODELS IN GLOBAL CATHOLICISM
Looking at the driving forces of synodality from one continent to another
Looking at the driving forces of synodality from one continent to another
CHOOSING THE CHURCH (AGAIN)
Turns out, there’s a lot of wonky theology and a good bit of Church law involved in baptismal validity... Marcia Lane-McGee reflects on her decision to be baptized - again.
Turns out, there’s a lot of wonky theology and a good bit of Church law involved in baptismal validity... Marcia Lane-McGee reflects on her decision to be baptized - again.
WHAT WE CAN AND CAN’T LEARN FROM A NEW TRANSLATION OF THE GOSPELS
Understanding is what many people seek from sacred literature, and what the people in the Gospels sought in their own encounters with Jesus.
Understanding is what many people seek from sacred literature, and what the people in the Gospels sought in their own encounters with Jesus.
VATICAN SAYS 2023 'SYNOD ON SYNODS' WILL BE A PROCESS, NOT AN EVENT
Originally planned for October 2022, the next synod is now comprised of a two-year process that will unfold in three phases: A diocesan phase, a continental phase, and a universal phase.
Originally planned for October 2022, the next synod is now comprised of a two-year process that will unfold in three phases: A diocesan phase, a continental phase, and a universal phase.
DIVERSITY & DIVISION - ‘AMERICAN CATHOLICS’
A new book that covers the astounding breadth of Catholic demography, culture, devotional life, institutional growth, and intellectual life.
A new book that covers the astounding breadth of Catholic demography, culture, devotional life, institutional growth, and intellectual life.
CATHOLICS: EMBRACE BEING ‘WOKE.’ IT’S PART OF OUR FAITH TRADITION
It is easy to mock “wokeness,” but developing an awareness of the realities that others face is relevant to the first step of the pastoral cycle: seeing.
It is easy to mock “wokeness,” but developing an awareness of the realities that others face is relevant to the first step of the pastoral cycle: seeing.
THE CHURCH IS INVITED TO LISTEN ACTIVELY TO FAMILIES AND INVOLVE THEM IN PASTORAL CARE
Pope Francis underlines the importance of collaboration involving the clergy, married couples and families in the mission of evangelization.
Pope Francis underlines the importance of collaboration involving the clergy, married couples and families in the mission of evangelization.
FROM HERE TO UTOPIA - WHAT RELIGION CAN TEACH THE LEFT
Catholic communities are utopian collectivities ordered by the rhythms of gathering and redistributing. They have so much to teach contemporary leftists.
Catholic communities are utopian collectivities ordered by the rhythms of gathering and redistributing. They have so much to teach contemporary leftists.
BISHOPS’ ‘REFERENDUM’ ON BIDEN MAY NOT HAVE BEEN THAT AT ALL
The primary purpose of this proposed document is to welcome Catholics back to Mass after the pandemic and to accompany the Eucharistic Revival project that will begin in the U.S. Church next summer.
The primary purpose of this proposed document is to welcome Catholics back to Mass after the pandemic and to accompany the Eucharistic Revival project that will begin in the U.S. Church next summer.
THE OLD TESTAMENT IS NOT SECOND-CLASS SCRIPTURE
If the Old Testament is made clear by the New, it’s also true that the New is made clear by the Old. The Old Testament is the essential context from which the New Testament was written.
If the Old Testament is made clear by the New, it’s also true that the New is made clear by the Old. The Old Testament is the essential context from which the New Testament was written.
MILLIONS SKIPPED CHURCH DURING PANDEMIC. WILL THEY RETURN?
As the pandemic recedes in the United States and in-person services resume, worries of a deepening slide in attendance are universal.
As the pandemic recedes in the United States and in-person services resume, worries of a deepening slide in attendance are universal.
OPPOSING CULTURE, OR OPPOSING AN ANTI-CULTURE?
As Catholics, we’re called to resist the “culture of death” and the “throw-away culture.” Does this mean we are countercultural? What should we do when faced with an anti-culture?
As Catholics, we’re called to resist the “culture of death” and the “throw-away culture.” Does this mean we are countercultural? What should we do when faced with an anti-culture?
CANTALAMESSA’S TALKING TO YOU
Divisions in the Church are tearing “Christ’s tunic to shreds,” Raniero Cantalamessa said in his homily during the Good Friday service in Rome. These conflicts “stem from political opinions that grow into ideologies...
Divisions in the Church are tearing “Christ’s tunic to shreds,” Raniero Cantalamessa said in his homily during the Good Friday service in Rome. These conflicts “stem from political opinions that grow into ideologies...
WHAT WILL YOUR PARISH LOOK LIKE POST-PANDEMIC?
It may depend on how it responded to coronavirus - From the start of the pandemic, church leaders have been grappling with how to minister under circumstances nobody had trained to expect.
It may depend on how it responded to coronavirus - From the start of the pandemic, church leaders have been grappling with how to minister under circumstances nobody had trained to expect.
LET'S BUILD A POST-PANDEMIC CHURCH WORTH GOING BACK TO
Holiness comes from God. But we find it most frequently together when we are open to it. Parish life, for all its faults, prepares us to be receptive when holiness comes to find us.
Holiness comes from God. But we find it most frequently together when we are open to it. Parish life, for all its faults, prepares us to be receptive when holiness comes to find us.
BREAKING THE HABIT OF OFFLOADING OUR RESPONSIBILITY FOR PARISH LIFE
We need a catechesis of the parish. I do not mean that we just need catechesis in the parish. We need a catechesis about what the parish is and why it matters. We need to start from the beginning and establish the most essential things.
We need a catechesis of the parish. I do not mean that we just need catechesis in the parish. We need a catechesis about what the parish is and why it matters. We need to start from the beginning and establish the most essential things.
CATHOLICS CLICKED WITH ONLINE MINISTRY. WILL WE KEEP IT UP?
Parishes got more tech-savvy during the pandemic and it led to connected communities of faith.
Parishes got more tech-savvy during the pandemic and it led to connected communities of faith.
TRADITIONIS CUSTODES: THE COUNCIL AND THE ROMAN RITE
First impressions in the American conservative Catholic media sphere are very negative, as anyone could have guessed, but this is a long game. Pope Francis has called for a "return to a unitary form of celebration."
First impressions in the American conservative Catholic media sphere are very negative, as anyone could have guessed, but this is a long game. Pope Francis has called for a "return to a unitary form of celebration."
BOTH ON COMMUNION AND LATIN MASS, ‘WEAPONIZATION’ MAY BE POPE’S TARGET
If you want to understand why Pope Francis is willing to use the power of his office to enforce discipline on the Latin Mass but not on communion for pro-choice politicians, maybe a concern for "weaponization" of the faith is at least part of it.
If you want to understand why Pope Francis is willing to use the power of his office to enforce discipline on the Latin Mass but not on communion for pro-choice politicians, maybe a concern for "weaponization" of the faith is at least part of it.
U.S. PARISHES WORK TO GET CATHOLICS BACK TO IN-PERSON MASS
The mere act of lifting the dispensation from the Sunday Mass obligation as the coronavirus pandemic eases won't be enough to get Catholics to come back to church.
The mere act of lifting the dispensation from the Sunday Mass obligation as the coronavirus pandemic eases won't be enough to get Catholics to come back to church.
TABLOIDS, SCANDAL AND SPYING: THE U.S. CATHOLIC CHURCH HAS HIT A NEW, DANGEROUS LOW POINT
Rare is the story that manages to be so depressing in so many ways. A recent report about a Catholic priest allegedly using an app for sexual activity is one of them.
Rare is the story that manages to be so depressing in so many ways. A recent report about a Catholic priest allegedly using an app for sexual activity is one of them.
TIME TO PUT THE 'CATHOLIC' BACK INTO THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
Now is a time for growth in charity toward one another, an openness to sharing divergent liturgical tastes and different desires, a commitment to renewing the unity of the church, built upon our common faith and the liturgy that is the source and summit of that faith.
Now is a time for growth in charity toward one another, an openness to sharing divergent liturgical tastes and different desires, a commitment to renewing the unity of the church, built upon our common faith and the liturgy that is the source and summit of that faith.
IT’S TIME TO WRESTLE WITH CHURCH TEACHING ON SEX. HERE’S HOW.
The Amoris Laetitia Family Year marks a good opportunity for Catholics to reconsider how we talk about sex and family life.
The Amoris Laetitia Family Year marks a good opportunity for Catholics to reconsider how we talk about sex and family life.
DISAGREEING WITH THE CHURCH
What do you do when you find yourself in disagreement with a Church teaching or objecting to a discipline that the Church legitimately imposes? Many Catholics find themselves in this place at some point in their life...
What do you do when you find yourself in disagreement with a Church teaching or objecting to a discipline that the Church legitimately imposes? Many Catholics find themselves in this place at some point in their life...
REAL PRESENCE IN A TIME OF ONGOING PANDEMIC
Launching a variety of "Back to Mass" campaigns across the country without a clearer understanding of the relationship between our ritual practices and the transmission of a destructive and ever-changing virus is imprudent.
Launching a variety of "Back to Mass" campaigns across the country without a clearer understanding of the relationship between our ritual practices and the transmission of a destructive and ever-changing virus is imprudent.
VIRTUAL REALITY AND THE COMING CATHOLIC METAVERSE
The combination of pandemic lockdowns and Zoom have spawned a new way of being Catholic. Or, they have spawned a new way of seeming to be Catholic. We are moving toward a Catholic Metaverse.
The combination of pandemic lockdowns and Zoom have spawned a new way of being Catholic. Or, they have spawned a new way of seeming to be Catholic. We are moving toward a Catholic Metaverse.
SHOULD WE GO BACK TO MASKS AT MASS? SOME U.S. BISHOPS SAY YES
Bishops around the country are reassessing diocesan policies for mask wearing at Mass as the Delta variant propels a new spike in Covid-19 cases, particularly among the unvaccinated.
Bishops around the country are reassessing diocesan policies for mask wearing at Mass as the Delta variant propels a new spike in Covid-19 cases, particularly among the unvaccinated.
FACEBOOK WANTS YOU TO PRAY WITH THEM. DON’T TRUST THEIR INTENTIONS
Facebook’s new prayer feature seems much more likely to invite us to turn further inward into that social media hellscape of narcissism and self-promotion. Pray for us, indeed.
Facebook’s new prayer feature seems much more likely to invite us to turn further inward into that social media hellscape of narcissism and self-promotion. Pray for us, indeed.
BISHOPS DISAGREE ON GIVING RELIGIOUS EXEMPTIONS FOR COVID VACCINATIONS
Now in the early stages of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination mandates, some of the nation’s Catholic leaders disagree on whether or not the faithful can seek religious exemptions from the orders.
Now in the early stages of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination mandates, some of the nation’s Catholic leaders disagree on whether or not the faithful can seek religious exemptions from the orders.
VACCINE MANDATES ARE COMING. CATHOLICS HAVE NO MORAL REASON TO OPPOSE THEM
Receiving the vaccine is not only morally acceptable, but also, according to Pope Francis, constitutes a moral obligation in order to protect one’s own health and safeguard the common good.
Receiving the vaccine is not only morally acceptable, but also, according to Pope Francis, constitutes a moral obligation in order to protect one’s own health and safeguard the common good.
CATHOLIC BISHOPS MUST NOT TURN VACCINES INTO A CULTURE WAR ISSUE
If you can’t find the phrase “common good” anywhere in a discussion of Catholicism and the morality of vaccination, then you are not getting the fullness of the Catholic tradition...
If you can’t find the phrase “common good” anywhere in a discussion of Catholicism and the morality of vaccination, then you are not getting the fullness of the Catholic tradition...
CLEARING UP THE CATHOLIC CONFUSION ABOUT VACCINE MANDATES
Church authorities should make it clear that Catholics, unless they have a medical reason to refuse it, have a moral obligation to take the vaccine. But they should also stop short of coercing people to violate their sincerely held beliefs.
Church authorities should make it clear that Catholics, unless they have a medical reason to refuse it, have a moral obligation to take the vaccine. But they should also stop short of coercing people to violate their sincerely held beliefs.
EMPTY CHURCHES AND THE “SECULARIZATION” EXCUSE
The problem in the ordinary Church is our great lack of pastors, of people who love Christ and share the lives of those who are entrusted to them.
The problem in the ordinary Church is our great lack of pastors, of people who love Christ and share the lives of those who are entrusted to them.
THERE’S NO SHORTAGE OF WAYS TO ENGAGE FAITH ONLINE
U.S. Catholics have been able to form remarkably healthy communities online — and ones with a strong emphasis on lay involvement to boot. It’s easy to be hopeful...
U.S. Catholics have been able to form remarkably healthy communities online — and ones with a strong emphasis on lay involvement to boot. It’s easy to be hopeful...
REACHING OUT TO LAY CATHOLICS WITH THE SPIRITUAL RICHES OF THE CHURCH
Contemplating the trinitarian life of God with a clarity of thought and sense of wonder. Lay theologians need to become more visible in every tier and structure of the Church, informing its spiritual life and pastoral work.
Contemplating the trinitarian life of God with a clarity of thought and sense of wonder. Lay theologians need to become more visible in every tier and structure of the Church, informing its spiritual life and pastoral work.
NATIVE CATHOLIC SCHOOLS CHART A NEW WAY FORWARD
How Native schools are wrestling with their legacy and living out their Catholic charism in the present.
How Native schools are wrestling with their legacy and living out their Catholic charism in the present.
IS A FACE-OFF OVER MASKS DIVIDING YOUR PARISH? YOU’RE NOT ALONE
The fact that politicians and TV news anchors are affecting America’s health is insane and needs to be halted No one’s freedom is being affected. We live in societies which have rules to enable people to live together in peace.
The fact that politicians and TV news anchors are affecting America’s health is insane and needs to be halted No one’s freedom is being affected. We live in societies which have rules to enable people to live together in peace.
CATHOLICS AREN’T DISAPPOINTED — THEY’RE EXASPERATED
People’s deep disappointment with the church reveals a deep love. Except not for the church. For Jesus Christ. Unless the church begins to understand... then people will look elsewhere to satisfy their longings.
People’s deep disappointment with the church reveals a deep love. Except not for the church. For Jesus Christ. Unless the church begins to understand... then people will look elsewhere to satisfy their longings.
MUCH OBLIGED
Too often during the pandemic the Church encouraged us to resent the inconveniences of social distancing instead of supporting us in bearing this cross together. One of the worst offenders was NYC Archbishop Timothy Dolan.
Too often during the pandemic the Church encouraged us to resent the inconveniences of social distancing instead of supporting us in bearing this cross together. One of the worst offenders was NYC Archbishop Timothy Dolan.
OUR CATHOLIC FAITH DEMANDS THAT WE CONFRONT ISLAMOPHOBIA
Anti-Muslim prejudice is not only unfair and untrue—it’s also a social sin. Christians should be at the forefront of efforts to work against it.
Anti-Muslim prejudice is not only unfair and untrue—it’s also a social sin. Christians should be at the forefront of efforts to work against it.
HIGHLIGHTS OF POPE FRANCIS' VISIT TO BUDAPEST AND SLOVAKIA
A video roundup of Pope Francis' 34th Apostolic Journey, a 4-day visit which took him first to Budapest to close the 52nd Eucharistic Congress and then to Slovakia...
A video roundup of Pope Francis' 34th Apostolic Journey, a 4-day visit which took him first to Budapest to close the 52nd Eucharistic Congress and then to Slovakia...
POPE FRANCIS RESPONDS TO ATTACKS FROM EWTN, OTHER CHURCH CRITICS
“I personally deserve attacks and insults because I am a sinner, but the church does not deserve them. They are the work of the devil."
“I personally deserve attacks and insults because I am a sinner, but the church does not deserve them. They are the work of the devil."
“THE CENTER OF THE CHURCH? IT’S NOT THE CHURCH!”: POPE FRANCIS IN BUDAPEST AND SLOVAKIA
It is necessary to preserve our religious roots and our history, while not keeping our gaze fixed only on the past, but looking to the future...
It is necessary to preserve our religious roots and our history, while not keeping our gaze fixed only on the past, but looking to the future...
POPE FRANCIS REINS IN CATHOLIC MOVEMENTS AFTER FLOOD OF ABUSE CASES
Francis said the Vatican is conducting a study, given the growing number of abuse cases in Catholic lay and religious movements.
Francis said the Vatican is conducting a study, given the growing number of abuse cases in Catholic lay and religious movements.
SYNOD OF BISHOPS WILL BEGIN IN THE LOCAL CHURCHES
Francis will open a three-year synodal journey with three phases (diocesan, continental, universal) of consultations and discernment, culminating with the assembly in October 2023 in Rome.
Francis will open a three-year synodal journey with three phases (diocesan, continental, universal) of consultations and discernment, culminating with the assembly in October 2023 in Rome.
GEN Z IS KEEPING THE FAITH. JUST DON’T EXPECT TO SEE THEM AT WORSHIP
Young people’s trust in religious institutions is low, but trust in relationships with religious people is still extremely high.
Young people’s trust in religious institutions is low, but trust in relationships with religious people is still extremely high.
CHURCH NUMBERS IN THE WORLD
The vitality of the Church and, above all, the faith that animates her pastors and her faithful cannot be measured by numbers and statistics. Yet the Church, like every visible human reality, cannot live outside the dimensions of space and time...
The vitality of the Church and, above all, the faith that animates her pastors and her faithful cannot be measured by numbers and statistics. Yet the Church, like every visible human reality, cannot live outside the dimensions of space and time...
FIVE RULES FOR DISAGREEING WITH THE POPE
We are all cafeteria Catholics. The real question is how we avoid a food fight in the cafeteria. Talking to those we disagree with is not about winning and losing. It is about conversation and better understanding.
We are all cafeteria Catholics. The real question is how we avoid a food fight in the cafeteria. Talking to those we disagree with is not about winning and losing. It is about conversation and better understanding.
EVEN GOD GOT BORED WITH THE BINARY
Dualisms—whether black and white, male and female, or good and evil—are appealing, but often fail to tell the whole story. Sooner or later, however, we must come to terms with St. Paul and his astounding erasure of ones and zeroes in Galatians 3.
Dualisms—whether black and white, male and female, or good and evil—are appealing, but often fail to tell the whole story. Sooner or later, however, we must come to terms with St. Paul and his astounding erasure of ones and zeroes in Galatians 3.
SLANDER, EWTN, AND CANNIBALISM
Finally, a response (?) of sorts, from an EWTN figure in response to Pope Francis's statement that their attacks on the pope are "the work of the devil."
Finally, a response (?) of sorts, from an EWTN figure in response to Pope Francis's statement that their attacks on the pope are "the work of the devil."
EWTN MUST DECIDE IF IT WANTS TO BE ‘WITH PETER AND UNDER PETER’
In Part II of this exclusive interview, Bishop Robert McElroy of San Diego says he believes “abortion, climate change and racism constitute the three greatest claims on the consciences of U.S. Catholics” today.
In Part II of this exclusive interview, Bishop Robert McElroy of San Diego says he believes “abortion, climate change and racism constitute the three greatest claims on the consciences of U.S. Catholics” today.
WHY CATHOLICS SHOULD USE PREFERRED GENDER PRONOUNS AND NAMES
It is a continued disgrace that so many of those who self-identify as Catholic use our faith tradition to reject and erase the self-identities of our sisters, brothers and other siblings in Christ.
It is a continued disgrace that so many of those who self-identify as Catholic use our faith tradition to reject and erase the self-identities of our sisters, brothers and other siblings in Christ.
IS POPE FRANCIS A MARXIST?
Pope Francis has been accused of being a Marxist by his critics throughout his papacy. Is this an accurate description? Let's look at some of his statements to see whether they are grounded in an ideology or in Catholic tradition.
Pope Francis has been accused of being a Marxist by his critics throughout his papacy. Is this an accurate description? Let's look at some of his statements to see whether they are grounded in an ideology or in Catholic tradition.
POPE FRANCIS WAS RIGHT TO CALL OUT THE ATTACKS FROM EWTN
As they say in Rome, safeguarding the unity of the church is a “constitutive dimension” of the function of the papacy. Or as Benedict XVI once put it, when schism rears up ahead, a pope has no choice but to act.
As they say in Rome, safeguarding the unity of the church is a “constitutive dimension” of the function of the papacy. Or as Benedict XVI once put it, when schism rears up ahead, a pope has no choice but to act.
CHRISTIANITY AND VACCINE HESITANCY
Freedom of religion plays an important role in our society, but it is always in danger of being abused and misused. As Christians, we have a vested interest in ensuring that it is not.
Freedom of religion plays an important role in our society, but it is always in danger of being abused and misused. As Christians, we have a vested interest in ensuring that it is not.
ON POPE FRANCIS, EWTN AND CRACKING DOWN ON CRITICISM
Francis has issued a challenge to the media, to "stop the logic of post-truth, disinformation, defamation, and... to contribute to human fraternity and empathy with those who are most deeply damaged."
Francis has issued a challenge to the media, to "stop the logic of post-truth, disinformation, defamation, and... to contribute to human fraternity and empathy with those who are most deeply damaged."
FRANCIS WELCOMES BIDEN TO VATICAN AMID TENSION WITH US CATHOLIC HIERARCHY
The visit comes as U.S bishops prepare for a meeting in which they will review a document some say could deny Biden the Eucharist because of his support for legal abortion.
The visit comes as U.S bishops prepare for a meeting in which they will review a document some say could deny Biden the Eucharist because of his support for legal abortion.
THE VARIETIES OF RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY TODAY
A package of stories from Commonweal Magazine devoted to contemporary Catholic religious communities. Despite the variety of these communities, some common themes emerge...
A package of stories from Commonweal Magazine devoted to contemporary Catholic religious communities. Despite the variety of these communities, some common themes emerge...
GOING GRAY
November reminds us of the communion of saints, and of our own mortality. But these reminders of death—and of the dead—needn’t be terrifying. November’s saints invite us, I think, to embrace the body as the site of companionship: with one another, with time, with God.
November reminds us of the communion of saints, and of our own mortality. But these reminders of death—and of the dead—needn’t be terrifying. November’s saints invite us, I think, to embrace the body as the site of companionship: with one another, with time, with God.
CARDINAL BERNARDIN’S TRUE LEGACY
The most extreme thing about Cardinal Joseph Bernardin was his moderation and his commitment to peaceableness. And—we might say—that he insisted (like Pope Francis) that Vatican II be implemented fully, transformatively, and authentically.
The most extreme thing about Cardinal Joseph Bernardin was his moderation and his commitment to peaceableness. And—we might say—that he insisted (like Pope Francis) that Vatican II be implemented fully, transformatively, and authentically.
AMID COVID-19, MOST CHURCHES PROVIDE HYBRID WORSHIP, HALF STOPPED PICNICS
A new study shows that the pandemic has had a profound impact across the religious spectrum, and that some churches are faring better than others.
A new study shows that the pandemic has had a profound impact across the religious spectrum, and that some churches are faring better than others.
RECEIVING COMMUNION IS NEVER A ‘PRIVATE’ MATTER. THE COMMON GOOD IS AT STAKE
The Covid pandemic has reminded us of the importance of placing the concerns of the community before our own as individuals. So why would we view the reception of the Eucharist as a private matter?
The Covid pandemic has reminded us of the importance of placing the concerns of the community before our own as individuals. So why would we view the reception of the Eucharist as a private matter?
RECAP OF THE USCCB FALL ASSEMBLY 2021
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for the 2021 Fall General Assembly in Baltimore this week. The meeting agenda included more than a dozen action items that were up for a vote...
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for the 2021 Fall General Assembly in Baltimore this week. The meeting agenda included more than a dozen action items that were up for a vote...
LIFE AFTER COVID-19: HISTORY DOESN'T REPEAT ITSELF
It is time to turn to one another in the renewed solidarity of Eucharistic love. We share with every member of the human family the plight of contingency. We will not live forever.
It is time to turn to one another in the renewed solidarity of Eucharistic love. We share with every member of the human family the plight of contingency. We will not live forever.
AMERICANS THINK BAD THINGS JUST HAPPEN; GOD IS NOT RESPONSIBLE
Americans overall have a strong belief in God and that belief appears to be unshaken in the midst of hardship and suffering, such as have occurred with the COVID-19 virus.
Americans overall have a strong belief in God and that belief appears to be unshaken in the midst of hardship and suffering, such as have occurred with the COVID-19 virus.
LESSONS FROM THE PANDEMIC FOR THE CONTEMPLATIVE LIFE
Everyone is called to always recognize the passage of God in personal and fraternal life, so that every person encountered may believe and experience the love of Lord and discover in yourself your ability to love.
Everyone is called to always recognize the passage of God in personal and fraternal life, so that every person encountered may believe and experience the love of Lord and discover in yourself your ability to love.
IF YOU THINK YOU CAN’T FORGIVE, REMEMBER, YOU DO IT ALL THE TIME
As we emerge from Thanksgiving and the holiday season kicks in in earnest, here’s a short list of things to keep handy: throat lozenges, Scotch tape, a Dustbuster, blankets and plenty of extra forgiveness.
As we emerge from Thanksgiving and the holiday season kicks in in earnest, here’s a short list of things to keep handy: throat lozenges, Scotch tape, a Dustbuster, blankets and plenty of extra forgiveness.
IN 2020, POPE FRANCIS WROTE ‘FRATELLI TUTTI.’ THIS YEAR, HE LIVED IT
From a vaccination clinic to a visit to the ancient Iraqi city of Ur and to a refugee camp in Lesbos, Pope Francis demonstrated throughout 2021 what he means by seeing all people as brothers or sisters.
From a vaccination clinic to a visit to the ancient Iraqi city of Ur and to a refugee camp in Lesbos, Pope Francis demonstrated throughout 2021 what he means by seeing all people as brothers or sisters.
WEBINAR: CHARISM & COMMUNITY IN AN AGE OF DISCERNMENT
A Commonweal Conversation on how the charisms of the church dialogue with lo Cotidiano, the everyday experiences, of what it means to be a Christian community.
A Commonweal Conversation on how the charisms of the church dialogue with lo Cotidiano, the everyday experiences, of what it means to be a Christian community.
AMERICA IS MORE SECULAR — BUT THE PERCENTAGE OF CATHOLICS IS STAYING STEADY
The religiously unaffiliated share of the public is 6 percentage points higher than it was five years ago and 10 points higher than a decade ago.
The religiously unaffiliated share of the public is 6 percentage points higher than it was five years ago and 10 points higher than a decade ago.
MANY WOMEN SERVE AS ‘DE FACTO DEACONS.’ DOES THE CHURCH RECOGNIZE THEIR GIFTS?
Even though women make up more than half of U.S. Catholics and 80 percent of lay ecclesial ministers, Catholic women still struggle to have their contributions recognized.
Even though women make up more than half of U.S. Catholics and 80 percent of lay ecclesial ministers, Catholic women still struggle to have their contributions recognized.
BOSTON'S CARDINAL O'MALLEY DEFENDS FRANCIS AGAINST ATTACKS FROM EWTN CRITICS
Cardinal Sean O'Malley defended Pope Francis against criticisms from EWTN, saying the Catholic media empire's attacks on Francis are not representative of how most Catholics view the pope.
Cardinal Sean O'Malley defended Pope Francis against criticisms from EWTN, saying the Catholic media empire's attacks on Francis are not representative of how most Catholics view the pope.
FRANCIS & THE NEW ECCLESIAL MOVEMENTS - A COMPLICATED STORY FOR A COMPLEX PAPACY
Pope Francis’s hands-on relationship with lay ecclesial movements is reflective of his own theological and spiritual roots.
Pope Francis’s hands-on relationship with lay ecclesial movements is reflective of his own theological and spiritual roots.
VATICAN SAYS CATECHISTS CAN LEAD PARISHES WITHOUT PRIESTS
The Vatican says that catechists are “co-responsible” with clergy for the Church’s mission and can take on the “pastoral care” of a parish when there is a shortage of priests.
The Vatican says that catechists are “co-responsible” with clergy for the Church’s mission and can take on the “pastoral care” of a parish when there is a shortage of priests.
SEPTEMBER 2022 DATE SET FOR BEATIFICATION OF JOHN PAUL I
Although his was one of the shortest papacies in history, Pope John Paul I left a lasting impression on the church that fondly remembers him as “the smiling pope.”
Although his was one of the shortest papacies in history, Pope John Paul I left a lasting impression on the church that fondly remembers him as “the smiling pope.”
POPE SPENDS 2021 LOOKING AFTER HIS HEALTH; ADVOCATING FOR ENVIRONMENT
This is part two of Crux Rome Bureau Chief Inés San Martín’s look back at 2021. Part one was devoted to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Catholic Church.
This is part two of Crux Rome Bureau Chief Inés San Martín’s look back at 2021. Part one was devoted to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Catholic Church.
IN NEW NETFLIX SERIES, POPE FRANCIS INSISTS OLD HAVE LESSONS FOR THE YOUNG
Though focused on aging, the documentary sheds light on his views on climate change, migration and polarization in the Catholic Church.
Though focused on aging, the documentary sheds light on his views on climate change, migration and polarization in the Catholic Church.
COVID-19 DOMINATES 2021 AT THE VATICAN
This is part one of Crux Rome Bureau Chief Inés San Martín’s look back at 2021, which was devoted to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Catholic Church.
This is part one of Crux Rome Bureau Chief Inés San Martín’s look back at 2021, which was devoted to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Catholic Church.
POPE ON NEW YEAR: PANDEMIC IS HARD, BUT FOCUS ON THE GOOD
Francis encouraged people Saturday to focus on the good which unites them and decried violence against women while acknowledging that the coronavirus pandemic has left many scared and struggling amid economic inequality.
Francis encouraged people Saturday to focus on the good which unites them and decried violence against women while acknowledging that the coronavirus pandemic has left many scared and struggling amid economic inequality.
RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES HAVE A MORAL OBLIGATION TO MAKE THE INTERNET BETTER
Six ways religious and spiritual leaders can help the internet serve their communities right now.
Six ways religious and spiritual leaders can help the internet serve their communities right now.
“DISCIPLESHIP” MEANS CONVERSION
The Second Vatican Council and the decades since have taught us that our Church must remain a Church of conversion, a semper reformanda, one that is always changing.
The Second Vatican Council and the decades since have taught us that our Church must remain a Church of conversion, a semper reformanda, one that is always changing.
4 POPE-APPROVED APPROACHES TO LEAVING ECHO CHAMBERS
The formation of echo chambers originates from a desire for solidarity with respect to a particular issue. But echo chambers foster a narrow-minded outlook. To quell disunity and discord, Francis proposes these 4 models.
The formation of echo chambers originates from a desire for solidarity with respect to a particular issue. But echo chambers foster a narrow-minded outlook. To quell disunity and discord, Francis proposes these 4 models.
AN ORDINARY CATHOLIC
To be Catholic is not necessarily something we do. Sometimes it is. But often enough, to be Catholic is something that God does to your soul, bit by bit, day by day...
To be Catholic is not necessarily something we do. Sometimes it is. But often enough, to be Catholic is something that God does to your soul, bit by bit, day by day...
CATHOLICS MUST TAKE DISCIPLESHIP SERIOUSLY
"We make progress when we recognize our diversity is not a threat but a great gift." –Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conv., Diocese of Lexington.
"We make progress when we recognize our diversity is not a threat but a great gift." –Bishop John Stowe, OFM Conv., Diocese of Lexington.
WHY AMERICANS STRUGGLE TO UNDERSTAND CATHOLICISM
Christ wants us to build this culture, to love God and neighbor. And to create those spaces that make it easier to do so. This is our task. It is a liturgical one.
Christ wants us to build this culture, to love God and neighbor. And to create those spaces that make it easier to do so. This is our task. It is a liturgical one.
ANGLICAN ORDERS AND THE CATHOLIC CHURCH – ANALYSIS
The synod process could offer the impetus for a re-appraisal as Christians seek to walk together towards unity. Francis knows that synodality cannot simply be about talking. It must also involve taking decisions.
The synod process could offer the impetus for a re-appraisal as Christians seek to walk together towards unity. Francis knows that synodality cannot simply be about talking. It must also involve taking decisions.
THE CATHOLIC CHURCH NEEDS MORE SCREAMING. WE’LL ALL FEEL BETTER
Forgiveness is as much a journey as it is a choice. Feeling and expressing pain and anger are essential steps along that path and along the path of healing.
Forgiveness is as much a journey as it is a choice. Feeling and expressing pain and anger are essential steps along that path and along the path of healing.
QUITTING ONLINE CHURCH IS ABANDONING THE ONE FOR THE 99
We have the framework in place to continue to welcome disabled people who worship from home, even as in-person services become safer. The choice is easy.
We have the framework in place to continue to welcome disabled people who worship from home, even as in-person services become safer. The choice is easy.
TAIZÉ, A MUSICAL MONASTIC COMMUNITY
The ecumenical monastic community was founded by Brother Roger Schütz in the 1940s as a parable of communion. Formed in response to a global crisis, today it faces new ones: climate change and sex abuse.
The ecumenical monastic community was founded by Brother Roger Schütz in the 1940s as a parable of communion. Formed in response to a global crisis, today it faces new ones: climate change and sex abuse.
YES, THE CHURCH NEEDS TO LISTEN TO FORMER CATHOLICS — AND NOT JUST WITH AN AGENDA OF WINNING THEM BACK
In the church we sometimes characterize those who have left as disaffected or lost. But in fact maybe they are the angels that God has sent to help us become what he wants us to be.
In the church we sometimes characterize those who have left as disaffected or lost. But in fact maybe they are the angels that God has sent to help us become what he wants us to be.
CHURCH RENEWAL CAN ONLY EMERGE FROM LOVE
Unity does not necessarily mean uniformity. We experience the Church in all of its diversity and difference when the gift of the Spirit is made visible in the sacramentality of our living in communion through the Spirit.
Unity does not necessarily mean uniformity. We experience the Church in all of its diversity and difference when the gift of the Spirit is made visible in the sacramentality of our living in communion through the Spirit.
IS OCIA THE ONLY TEMPLATE THAT ONE CAN USE TO JOIN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH?
Since the publication of the RCIA manual in 1974, its methodology and use has shifted from a book of guidelines to an almost mandated manual.
Since the publication of the RCIA manual in 1974, its methodology and use has shifted from a book of guidelines to an almost mandated manual.
MISINFORMATION AND MENDING DIVISION IN OUR CHURCH
Catholic fundamentalism mirrors what is happening in the rest of U.S. society, and how — and if — we can start moving toward unification and healing.
Catholic fundamentalism mirrors what is happening in the rest of U.S. society, and how — and if — we can start moving toward unification and healing.
WHY YOUNG ADULTS OF GENERATION Z GIVE ME REAL HOPE
Gen Z does not need our patronizing admiration, but our sincere respect and the opportunity to lead us, teach us and show us older folks what we are missing and where we need to go.
Gen Z does not need our patronizing admiration, but our sincere respect and the opportunity to lead us, teach us and show us older folks what we are missing and where we need to go.
TWO YEARS INTO PANDEMIC, SOME CATHOLIC PARISHES STRETCHING THEIR DOLLARS
A shift to online giving helped make up some of the losses, but officials said the financial impact has most likely compromised the long-term sustainability of parishes that were already struggling before the pandemic.
A shift to online giving helped make up some of the losses, but officials said the financial impact has most likely compromised the long-term sustainability of parishes that were already struggling before the pandemic.
GEN Z IS REMIXING RELIGION
For previous generations, religious institutions offered solace in times of turmoil and uncertainty. But my generation is finding solace through combining and redefining religions.
For previous generations, religious institutions offered solace in times of turmoil and uncertainty. But my generation is finding solace through combining and redefining religions.
5 CHRISTIAN VIRTUES TO HELP US LEARN TO LIVE IN A NEW 'NEW NORMAL'
Adjusting to this return of regular in-person activities and more-frequent travel has given us reason to step back and reflect on what is needed in order to cope better with the world as it changes.
Adjusting to this return of regular in-person activities and more-frequent travel has given us reason to step back and reflect on what is needed in order to cope better with the world as it changes.
RICHARD ROHR REORDERS THE UNIVERSE
The Franciscan friar Richard Rohr attempts to strike a difficult balance: calling out the flaws in contemporary Christianity while also affirming its core tenets.
The Franciscan friar Richard Rohr attempts to strike a difficult balance: calling out the flaws in contemporary Christianity while also affirming its core tenets.
HOW THE CHURCH CAN BUILD BETTER RELATIONSHIPS WITH GEN Z
Young people haven’t given up on life’s big questions. They express a curiosity about the sacred, a yearning for community, and a willingness to learn about religious traditions.
Young people haven’t given up on life’s big questions. They express a curiosity about the sacred, a yearning for community, and a willingness to learn about religious traditions.
IS IT TIME FOR AN 11TH COMMANDMENT?
There’s a problem with the Ten Commandments. It’s a big one, too, and we’ve all had to deal with it: You can follow the Ten Commandments and still be a pretty terrible person.
There’s a problem with the Ten Commandments. It’s a big one, too, and we’ve all had to deal with it: You can follow the Ten Commandments and still be a pretty terrible person.
CROSSING THE GENERATIONAL DIVIDE CAN BRING CHANGE
This conversation between the old generations and the new generations about the essential vocation of family life is vital to have. But we have to be sure that we’re backing it up with more than just words.
This conversation between the old generations and the new generations about the essential vocation of family life is vital to have. But we have to be sure that we’re backing it up with more than just words.
THE RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS WORKS, BUT ONLY IF WE CHANGE
The rite indeed works, but only if we trust it enough to let it change us, too. If we do, we can expect "a community of faith in Jesus Christ dead, risen, and present among his People,"
The rite indeed works, but only if we trust it enough to let it change us, too. If we do, we can expect "a community of faith in Jesus Christ dead, risen, and present among his People,"
A NEW APPROACH TO PARISH MERGERS
Parish restructuring has become a reality for many US dioceses. While initially painful, the process can ultimately lead to healing and renewal.
Parish restructuring has become a reality for many US dioceses. While initially painful, the process can ultimately lead to healing and renewal.
HOW AMERICA’S YOUTH LOST ITS RELIGION IN 1990S
We are living in the aftermath of one of the most dramatic demographic shifts in American history.
We are living in the aftermath of one of the most dramatic demographic shifts in American history.
WHO FRAMED MARY MAGDALENE?
The first witness to the Resurrection was a woman whose name and reputation have become so misunderstood, misinterpreted, and misconstrued over the centuries that she is more commonly, though erroneously, remembered as a prostitute than as the faithful first bearer of the Good News.
The first witness to the Resurrection was a woman whose name and reputation have become so misunderstood, misinterpreted, and misconstrued over the centuries that she is more commonly, though erroneously, remembered as a prostitute than as the faithful first bearer of the Good News.
WHAT DOES COMMUNION MEAN TO YOU?
When we include all of Jesus’ meal sharing in scripture, we gain a much fuller sense of what Jesus is teaching us about Eucharist. Can meal sharing can help parishes rediscover and renew eucharistic life?
When we include all of Jesus’ meal sharing in scripture, we gain a much fuller sense of what Jesus is teaching us about Eucharist. Can meal sharing can help parishes rediscover and renew eucharistic life?
REDISCOVER THE VALUE OF FAMILY LIFE
Pope Francis addressed participants in the Plenary Session of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, and stressed the importance of the value and beauty of family life...
Pope Francis addressed participants in the Plenary Session of the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, and stressed the importance of the value and beauty of family life...
THE HALLMARKS OF THE EARLY CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY: SERVICE, FELLOWSHIP AND FEASTING
That Jesus is routinely unrecognizable after the resurrection can help us think about what the resurrection means and how it shifts our understanding of Christ.
That Jesus is routinely unrecognizable after the resurrection can help us think about what the resurrection means and how it shifts our understanding of Christ.
FAITH FORMATION SHOULD BE A CONVERSATION, NOT A LECTURE
Teaching is meant to lead us into the overwhelmingly persuasive and compellingly attractive presence of a God who is all love and compassion. Dominating spaces doesn’t make the case for such a God.
Teaching is meant to lead us into the overwhelmingly persuasive and compellingly attractive presence of a God who is all love and compassion. Dominating spaces doesn’t make the case for such a God.
ON SERVING BOTH GOD AND GUNS, AND BANNING SOMEONE FROM THE EUCHARIST
There is no accurate way to read the Gospels and come away with a view that Jesus would support the "right" to bear arms without qualification.
There is no accurate way to read the Gospels and come away with a view that Jesus would support the "right" to bear arms without qualification.
THE PROBLEM OF EUCHARISTIC INDIVIDUALISM
The Eucharist calls us to a level of community that is frighteningly concrete; a community in which what belongs to one belongs to all, and in which the joys and sufferings of one affect all the rest.
The Eucharist calls us to a level of community that is frighteningly concrete; a community in which what belongs to one belongs to all, and in which the joys and sufferings of one affect all the rest.
THE COURAGE TO SPEAK FREELY
We are not used to popes telling Catholics to speak out freely. A much more familiar model is the pope who intervenes decisively and normatively in theological discussions and silences those who are judged to have crossed a line.
We are not used to popes telling Catholics to speak out freely. A much more familiar model is the pope who intervenes decisively and normatively in theological discussions and silences those who are judged to have crossed a line.
WHAT IS THE BISHOPS’ EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL, AND WHY SHOULD CATHOLICS CARE?
[Seeking] to reawaken Catholics’ understanding of the Eucharist and offer a path toward healing.
[Seeking] to reawaken Catholics’ understanding of the Eucharist and offer a path toward healing.
EUCHARIST IS THE SACRAMENT OF UNITY, AND ALSO OF CHURCH RENEWAL
Before our current crisis of Eucharistic belief, Vatican II taught and confirmed us in the faith of our forebears.
Before our current crisis of Eucharistic belief, Vatican II taught and confirmed us in the faith of our forebears.
CATHOLICISM GIVES US A COMMON LANGUAGE (AND IT’S NOT LATIN)
From Babel to Pentecost, scripture reminds us to find the beauty of God through our words to one another.
From Babel to Pentecost, scripture reminds us to find the beauty of God through our words to one another.
PARISHIONERS DON'T BELONG AT THE PARISH
As parishioners are taught to discern and respond to God’s invitation, they will also find greater communion with the Church, their neighbors, colleagues, and whomever else the Lord sends them.
As parishioners are taught to discern and respond to God’s invitation, they will also find greater communion with the Church, their neighbors, colleagues, and whomever else the Lord sends them.
A MARRIED CATHOLIC PRIEST’S LESSONS FROM TWO KINDS OF FATHERHOOD
Fatherhood is a profound thing; it changes fundamentally the man made a father, deeply and hopefully for the better.
Fatherhood is a profound thing; it changes fundamentally the man made a father, deeply and hopefully for the better.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WHITE IDENTITY COMES BEFORE CHRISTIAN FAITH?
In the U.S. today, two-thirds of white Christians practice a “religion of whiteness,” a new study finds.
In the U.S. today, two-thirds of white Christians practice a “religion of whiteness,” a new study finds.
WHY WE NEED A EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL
Criticizing the faithful for ignorance will do far less to bring Catholics to a greater understanding of the Eucharist than a straightforward approach that stresses the rich, life-giving theology of the sacrament.
Criticizing the faithful for ignorance will do far less to bring Catholics to a greater understanding of the Eucharist than a straightforward approach that stresses the rich, life-giving theology of the sacrament.
EUCHARIST, SACRAMENT OF UNITY AND SOURCE OF DIVISION
You will know we are Christians by our love, but you will know we are Catholics by our fights. Sadly, there is much ignorance among Catholics (including bishops and priests) about the Eucharist.
You will know we are Christians by our love, but you will know we are Catholics by our fights. Sadly, there is much ignorance among Catholics (including bishops and priests) about the Eucharist.
BIDEN HONORS GREEK ORTHODOX PRIEST, CATHOLIC NUN WITH MEDAL OF FREEDOM
What we’re trying to do is provide opportunities for folks on the left and the right to have conversation together, have safe conversation and learn skills to be able to talk to each other.
What we’re trying to do is provide opportunities for folks on the left and the right to have conversation together, have safe conversation and learn skills to be able to talk to each other.
FINDING HOPE AND FORGIVENESS IN A TIME OF HARDSHIP
We are called to be fully alive. And to be alive fully, humanly, is to be able to let go of the burden of the past, and open ourselves to the hope of the future.
We are called to be fully alive. And to be alive fully, humanly, is to be able to let go of the burden of the past, and open ourselves to the hope of the future.
CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM AND THE SHIPWRECK OF CIVILIZATION
Things can go terribly wrong with nationalism, as with religion. Even worse is when nationalism and religion go terribly wrong together.
Things can go terribly wrong with nationalism, as with religion. Even worse is when nationalism and religion go terribly wrong together.
WHAT THE U.S. NEEDS MOST RIGHT NOW, WHAT WE LACK, IS COMMUNITY
Our major hope is that something new may be percolating underground, in younger people. These are the people who are discovering that life is better and holier together.
Our major hope is that something new may be percolating underground, in younger people. These are the people who are discovering that life is better and holier together.
THE MODERN PARISH IS A LOT LIKE A FACTORY FARM. LAYPEOPLE CAN CHANGE THAT
We laypeople are failing in our mission. We have outsourced evangelization to a few paid members of staff and a collective of volunteers.
We laypeople are failing in our mission. We have outsourced evangelization to a few paid members of staff and a collective of volunteers.
FOUR THINGS CATHOLICS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRANSGENDER PEOPLE
It takes humility and courage to travel outside of our comfort zone and learn from people whose lives challenge our long-standing beliefs about God and about who we are as human beings.
It takes humility and courage to travel outside of our comfort zone and learn from people whose lives challenge our long-standing beliefs about God and about who we are as human beings.
INDIGENOUS PEOPLE, EVANGELIZATION AND US
We need to find new ways and opportunities for listening, dialogue and encounter, leaving room for God and His initiative, not our own desire to be center stage.
We need to find new ways and opportunities for listening, dialogue and encounter, leaving room for God and His initiative, not our own desire to be center stage.
CALLED TO THE HEIGHTS OF HEAVEN
Address to the Young and the Elderly: Pope Francis' final official address in Canada on Friday, 29 July, during his meeting with young and elderly people in Iqaluit
Address to the Young and the Elderly: Pope Francis' final official address in Canada on Friday, 29 July, during his meeting with young and elderly people in Iqaluit
THE PARALLEL BETWEEN NOTRE-DAME AND THE CATHOLIC CHURCH
The parallel between the fire at Notre-Dame and the situation of the Catholic Church itself is the parable for our time. Our church is being saved by those who run into the fire, not by those who pretend it’s not burning.
The parallel between the fire at Notre-Dame and the situation of the Catholic Church itself is the parable for our time. Our church is being saved by those who run into the fire, not by those who pretend it’s not burning.
WHAT THOMAS MERTON TELLS US ABOUT THE GOSPEL'S LOGIC VS. OUR SOCIETY'S
Perhaps individual and collective examinations of conscience are long overdue to assess just how "sane" our Christianity actually is.
Perhaps individual and collective examinations of conscience are long overdue to assess just how "sane" our Christianity actually is.
CATHOLICISM IS UNIVERSAL. STOP MAKING IT ‘MEMBERS ONLY.’
It is time to embrace the Catholic vision for all it’s worth. Our mission is worldwide. Our teaching really does touch everything. We need to concentrate harder on our universal welcome.
It is time to embrace the Catholic vision for all it’s worth. Our mission is worldwide. Our teaching really does touch everything. We need to concentrate harder on our universal welcome.
CLOSENESS & THE COMMON JOURNEY - THE ROLE OF SYNODALITY IN A RESPONSIVE CHURCH
"Synodality involves a responsive listening to Christ in his person and a responsive listening to Christ in the lived circumstances of his people." — Bishop Daniel Flores
"Synodality involves a responsive listening to Christ in his person and a responsive listening to Christ in the lived circumstances of his people." — Bishop Daniel Flores
CAMPUS MINISTRY TO LATINO/A YOUTH MEANS LISTENING, LEARNING
At Catholic colleges and universities, culturally responsive campus ministry programs create a greater sense of belonging.
At Catholic colleges and universities, culturally responsive campus ministry programs create a greater sense of belonging.
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS CAN’T SERVE ONLY THE RICH. SCHOOL VOUCHERS MAKE FULFILLING THAT MISSION POSSIBLE
A Catholic school that serves only the rich is not a Catholic school at all.
A Catholic school that serves only the rich is not a Catholic school at all.
TRANSGRESSIVE TRADITIONALISTS
Traditionalism can seem trendy and countercultural, but it is the constancy, not the theatricality, of the Church that offers meaning in a secular world.
Traditionalism can seem trendy and countercultural, but it is the constancy, not the theatricality, of the Church that offers meaning in a secular world.
POPE WANTS DIALOGUE WITH BISHOPS ABOUT THE CHURCH'S MINISTRIES
Francis wants a formal "dialogue" with the world's bishops' conferences to discuss their experiences with the ongoing promotion of the church's ministries so they foster unity and evangelization.
Francis wants a formal "dialogue" with the world's bishops' conferences to discuss their experiences with the ongoing promotion of the church's ministries so they foster unity and evangelization.
A SAINT FOR OUR TIME: NEW DOCUMENTARY ON MOTHER TERESA PREMIERES AT THE VATICAN
A new documentary showcases the life of the saint, flawed and relentless, ahead of the 25th anniversary of her death.
A new documentary showcases the life of the saint, flawed and relentless, ahead of the 25th anniversary of her death.
WHY CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM IS UNCHRISTIAN
We can learn to hear the Lord better by listening to and respecting one another. This is what ecumenical and interreligious dialogue is all about.
We can learn to hear the Lord better by listening to and respecting one another. This is what ecumenical and interreligious dialogue is all about.
MOTHER TERESA, THE FIRST GREAT TELEVISED SAINT
The ubiquity of her presence on our screens a generation ago made her story so well known that many of us did not really work to try to know her at all.
The ubiquity of her presence on our screens a generation ago made her story so well known that many of us did not really work to try to know her at all.
DEATH OF QUEEN ELIZABETH II: CATHOLIC LEADERS RECALL ‘AN EXAMPLE OF CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP’
Pope Francis highlighted the late queen’s “example of devotion to duty, her steadfast witness of faith in Jesus Christ and her firm hope in his promises.”
Pope Francis highlighted the late queen’s “example of devotion to duty, her steadfast witness of faith in Jesus Christ and her firm hope in his promises.”
WHAT THE QUEEN MEANT TO CHRISTIANS
Queen Elizabeth II was the world’s most prominent Christian leader. The optics of her position were wealth and glamour, but the philosophy which underpinned her approach to monarchy was a quiet Christian humility.
Queen Elizabeth II was the world’s most prominent Christian leader. The optics of her position were wealth and glamour, but the philosophy which underpinned her approach to monarchy was a quiet Christian humility.
THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IS INCREASINGLY DIVERSE – AND SO ARE ITS CONTROVERSIES
There are many potential flash points as the Synod moves forward: poverty, adapting to local culture, sexuality and gender, church governance – just to name a few.
There are many potential flash points as the Synod moves forward: poverty, adapting to local culture, sexuality and gender, church governance – just to name a few.
PEOPLE OF GOD
In the fall of 2021, America Media’s video team hatched an idea: What would it look like if we traveled to four parishes across the United States during the course of one year and assessed their similarities and differences? Here is a snapshot of what we found.
In the fall of 2021, America Media’s video team hatched an idea: What would it look like if we traveled to four parishes across the United States during the course of one year and assessed their similarities and differences? Here is a snapshot of what we found.
OLD NEWS: DEEP DIVISIONS IN THE ONE CHURCH
When we flatten our fellow Catholics into thin caricatures of who they really are—so fundamentally misguided or even evil—it can become difficult to imagine how conversation is even possible, let alone desirable.
When we flatten our fellow Catholics into thin caricatures of who they really are—so fundamentally misguided or even evil—it can become difficult to imagine how conversation is even possible, let alone desirable.
FRANCIS OF ASSISI, FRANCIS OF ROME
Francis looked around at the church and he began to repair the building, stone by stone. Pope Francis understands this metaphor.
Francis looked around at the church and he began to repair the building, stone by stone. Pope Francis understands this metaphor.
JESUIT KARL RAHNER WAS ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL THEOLOGIANS OF THE 20TH CENTURY. BUT HE WAS FIRST AND FOREMOST A PRIEST
Because the object of theology is the God who is ultimate mystery, no words or concepts about God are adequate.
Because the object of theology is the God who is ultimate mystery, no words or concepts about God are adequate.
HOW TO BE ONE CHURCH IN DIVISIVE TIMES
As disciples of Jesus, we are called to allow the grace of Christ and of his church to shape us into those who are the first to love our perceived opponent.
As disciples of Jesus, we are called to allow the grace of Christ and of his church to shape us into those who are the first to love our perceived opponent.
THE FUTURE OF CHRISTIANITY
A virtual discussion on the current state and future of the Christian religion by Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) members Brian McLaren, Barbara Holmes, James Finley, & Richard Rohr.
A virtual discussion on the current state and future of the Christian religion by Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) members Brian McLaren, Barbara Holmes, James Finley, & Richard Rohr.
WHY AMERICANS ARE LEAVING THEIR CHURCHES
As many as a third of Americans now claim no religious affiliation and for sociologist Stephen Bullivant, the question is why it took so long for the religious exodus to happen.
As many as a third of Americans now claim no religious affiliation and for sociologist Stephen Bullivant, the question is why it took so long for the religious exodus to happen.
2022 SAW OPPOSITION TO POPE FRANCIS, PLUS INTELLECTUAL AND ECCLESIAL SHIFTS
Francis continues to invite the church to try new approaches... even while here in the United States he encounters a great deal of opposition.
Francis continues to invite the church to try new approaches... even while here in the United States he encounters a great deal of opposition.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A CATHOLIC IN GOOD STANDING?
Our status in the church shouldn't be relegated to a set of rules. There’s a lot of room for interpretation in the phrase the catechism uses to frame this question.
Our status in the church shouldn't be relegated to a set of rules. There’s a lot of room for interpretation in the phrase the catechism uses to frame this question.
‘THAT ALL MAY BE ONE’
Never was the task of ecumenical dialogue more urgent or more difficult. Churches have to overcome the prejudices of the past and the many historical wrongs which each group inflicted on the other.
Never was the task of ecumenical dialogue more urgent or more difficult. Churches have to overcome the prejudices of the past and the many historical wrongs which each group inflicted on the other.
CATHOLICS NEED TO FOCUS MORE ATTENTION ON THE HOLY SPIRIT
Scripture and tradition both give us ample support for proclaiming belief in the Spirit, but little by way of concrete resources that most Christians can easily embrace and understand.
Scripture and tradition both give us ample support for proclaiming belief in the Spirit, but little by way of concrete resources that most Christians can easily embrace and understand.
CATHOLICISM HOLDS POTENTIAL FOR CREATIVITY AND IMAGINATION
A discussion with Dr. Michael Rose about his new book, and the theological creativity inherent in human movement and social change.
A discussion with Dr. Michael Rose about his new book, and the theological creativity inherent in human movement and social change.
THE EUCHARIST IS ABOUT MORE THAN THE REAL PRESENCE
Eucharist is not about me and Jesus; it is about us in the Christian community, about us being transformed into the body of Christ, about us joining in the mission of Jesus in the world.
Eucharist is not about me and Jesus; it is about us in the Christian community, about us being transformed into the body of Christ, about us joining in the mission of Jesus in the world.
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
February is Black History Month in the United States. As such, it’s a great time to recognize the contributions of Black Americans in the Catholic Church.
February is Black History Month in the United States. As such, it’s a great time to recognize the contributions of Black Americans in the Catholic Church.
EUCHARISTIC PRAYER IS THE HEART OF THE EUCHARIST
The Eucharistic prayer is the most important and least understood prayer in the Catholic Mass. Most Catholics see it as the priest’s prayer that is centered on the consecration of the bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ.
The Eucharistic prayer is the most important and least understood prayer in the Catholic Mass. Most Catholics see it as the priest’s prayer that is centered on the consecration of the bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ.
“MY GRACE IS SUFFICIENT FOR YOU”
Instead of piling shame and guilt upon the heads of people who are struggling we need to preach about a God who loves his children like a father, a God who became human and who explicitly identified himself with the wounded and suffering...
Instead of piling shame and guilt upon the heads of people who are struggling we need to preach about a God who loves his children like a father, a God who became human and who explicitly identified himself with the wounded and suffering...
WHAT IF I’M WRONG? A NECESSARY QUESTION FOR EVERY POLITICIAN AND VOTER
Anyone involved in choosing public policy, directly or indirectly, must consider the possibility that the wrong option will actually make a problem worse.
Anyone involved in choosing public policy, directly or indirectly, must consider the possibility that the wrong option will actually make a problem worse.
'NONES' MAY SOON OUTNUMBER CHRISTIANS
More respondents to the 2021 Census aged under 40 declared they have no-religion than said they profess Christianity.
More respondents to the 2021 Census aged under 40 declared they have no-religion than said they profess Christianity.
WHAT SHOULD THE EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL LOOK LIKE?
Eucharistic Revival and ecclesial revival are the same; it is one revival. The signs, therefore, that the Eucharistic Revival will be a real revival will be holiness and unity.
Eucharistic Revival and ecclesial revival are the same; it is one revival. The signs, therefore, that the Eucharistic Revival will be a real revival will be holiness and unity.
A READING LIST FOR SEMINARIANS AND OTHER CATHOLIC CONSERVATIVES
Thinking you are better than others is a sign of pride and arrogance, he said, especially if you are passing judgment on a person’s thoughts and motivations, which you cannot see.
Thinking you are better than others is a sign of pride and arrogance, he said, especially if you are passing judgment on a person’s thoughts and motivations, which you cannot see.
FAITH, STRENGTH, AND A CHANGING CHURCH
Sister Julia Walsh talks with scholar, author and lecturer Dr. Phyllis Zagano about her faith journey and the role of women in the Catholic Church.
Sister Julia Walsh talks with scholar, author and lecturer Dr. Phyllis Zagano about her faith journey and the role of women in the Catholic Church.
INTELLECTUAL HUMILITY: THE BENEFITS OF ACKNOWLEDGING WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW
When you approach life with intellectual humility, you open your mind to learning. You are able to learn from opposing views and have more constructive discussions, even when you disagree.
When you approach life with intellectual humility, you open your mind to learning. You are able to learn from opposing views and have more constructive discussions, even when you disagree.
A VIEW FROM THE PEWS
What does your average pew-sitting Catholic think of Pope Francis ten years into his papacy? What do the average Catholic’s friends, some of whom might be considered Catholic-adjacent or various degrees of “ex-Catholic,” think?
What does your average pew-sitting Catholic think of Pope Francis ten years into his papacy? What do the average Catholic’s friends, some of whom might be considered Catholic-adjacent or various degrees of “ex-Catholic,” think?
BAPTISMAL ECCLESIOLOGY & VATICAN II
Understanding the truth that the whole Church is priestly. The whole Church is, in a word, priestly. One becomes a Christian—another Christ—so as to bear Christ’s light and life to others.
Understanding the truth that the whole Church is priestly. The whole Church is, in a word, priestly. One becomes a Christian—another Christ—so as to bear Christ’s light and life to others.
SURVEY: US-BORN LATINOS NOW MORE LIKELY TO BE ‘NONES’ THAN CATHOLIC
Former Catholics have cited the clergy sexual abuse scandal, a lack of LGBTQ inclusivity and the rule that women can’t be priests as reasons for leaving the church.
Former Catholics have cited the clergy sexual abuse scandal, a lack of LGBTQ inclusivity and the rule that women can’t be priests as reasons for leaving the church.
IN LOS ANGELES COUNTY, AN IMMIGRANT CHURCH — AGAIN
Will Catholics in America face the same shocking downdrafts as Lutherans, Methodists and Episcopalians, just on a different schedule? Like your local TV weatherman says, the map is in motion
Will Catholics in America face the same shocking downdrafts as Lutherans, Methodists and Episcopalians, just on a different schedule? Like your local TV weatherman says, the map is in motion
CATHOLIC WORLDBUILDING AND THE IGNATIAN IMAGINATION
Because God continues to create; God invites us into the work of creation. Mystery continues to unfold around us, drawing us in so as to send us out.
Because God continues to create; God invites us into the work of creation. Mystery continues to unfold around us, drawing us in so as to send us out.
WHAT SOCRATES’ ‘KNOW NOTHING’ WISDOM CAN TEACH A POLARIZED AMERICA
Socrates never hesitated to question both sides’ assumptions deeply polarized Athens.
Socrates never hesitated to question both sides’ assumptions deeply polarized Athens.
MENTORSHIP IS KEY TO PASSING ON A LIVING FAITH
The gift of being mentored in the faith is similar to the practice of discipleship.
The gift of being mentored in the faith is similar to the practice of discipleship.
THE IMPORTANCE OF RELIGION IN THE LIVES OF AMERICANS IS SHRINKING
However, for people who do still attend religious services, they say they're optimistic about the future of their house of worship.
However, for people who do still attend religious services, they say they're optimistic about the future of their house of worship.
MASS ATTENDANCE DROPS AFTER COVID, BUT U.S. CATHOLICS ARE HOPEFUL FOR THEIR CHURCH
The share of Catholics going to Mass even a few times each year has fallen off, but U.S. Catholics overall are optimistic about their church and its leaders.
The share of Catholics going to Mass even a few times each year has fallen off, but U.S. Catholics overall are optimistic about their church and its leaders.
WE FOUND A SACRED COMMUNITY AT MY SON'S KARATE DOJO
I have been trying for decades to find a church that feels like this dojo. A place that wants everybody at the table; a place that will put you to work but also makes sure to take care of you.
I have been trying for decades to find a church that feels like this dojo. A place that wants everybody at the table; a place that will put you to work but also makes sure to take care of you.
A PRIEST’S PLEA FOR UNITY AND LOVE FOR THE POPE
Fr. Mike Najim looks back on his faith journey and the life-changing experiences that formed his faith.
Fr. Mike Najim looks back on his faith journey and the life-changing experiences that formed his faith.
RELIGIOUS ‘NONES’ CHALLENGE CATHOLICS TO AUTHENTICITY
Most nones’ experience of Catholicism is the opposite of a loving community united by a loving God where people are taught to love.
Most nones’ experience of Catholicism is the opposite of a loving community united by a loving God where people are taught to love.
FAILURE IS PART OF LIFE—EVEN FOR THE CHURCH
Sometimes failure can motivate us to find a workaround. Or sometimes we need a brief rest, a small mourning period, before attacking a challenge from another angle. Sometimes we just have to admit that we need help.
Sometimes failure can motivate us to find a workaround. Or sometimes we need a brief rest, a small mourning period, before attacking a challenge from another angle. Sometimes we just have to admit that we need help.
WE ARE ALL 'CAFETERIA CATHOLICS.' SO WHAT? LET'S ENJOY THE CHURCH'S FEAST
To say we know it all and we hold all truth is to undermine the freedom and liberating energy of the Holy Spirit.
To say we know it all and we hold all truth is to undermine the freedom and liberating energy of the Holy Spirit.
REIMAGINING HOW WE REIMAGINE CHURCH
As a resurrection people — one pointing toward a Jesus we cannot see and hoping to build a world that is not and perhaps has never been — our ability to imagine and reimagine is a critical part of our faith.
As a resurrection people — one pointing toward a Jesus we cannot see and hoping to build a world that is not and perhaps has never been — our ability to imagine and reimagine is a critical part of our faith.
IT'S UP TO US. WHEN WILL WE FIGURE THAT OUT?
We are failing to carry one another — the blind and the lame in us — to the coming of a new worldview and a commitment to an adult faith.
We are failing to carry one another — the blind and the lame in us — to the coming of a new worldview and a commitment to an adult faith.
THE CRISIS IN THE PEWS
Mass attendance is down significantly with fewer young people attending regularly. What has happened to cause this? Let’s take a look.
Mass attendance is down significantly with fewer young people attending regularly. What has happened to cause this? Let’s take a look.
MARRIAGE PREP PROGRAMS ARE FAILING SOME CATHOLIC COUPLES
Programs for Catholic marriage preparation often tend to be out of touch with reality and lacking in real world advice.
Programs for Catholic marriage preparation often tend to be out of touch with reality and lacking in real world advice.
LATINO CATHOLICS ARE LEAVING THE CHURCH. CAN WE WELCOME THEM BACK?
Disaffiliated Latinos now make up 30 percent of all Latinos in the United States, triple the number from 12 years ago.
Disaffiliated Latinos now make up 30 percent of all Latinos in the United States, triple the number from 12 years ago.
IN PORTUGAL, POPE FRANCIS WILL SOW SEEDS OF HIS LEGACY
The pontiff will meet with nearly a million young Catholics for World Youth Day celebrations and share his vision for the future of the church.
The pontiff will meet with nearly a million young Catholics for World Youth Day celebrations and share his vision for the future of the church.
WORLD YOUTH DAYS TEST THE LIMITS OF AGING POPES
At 86, Francis will now be the oldest pope to preside over a World Youth Day celebration. If past World Youth Days are any indication, it could reinvigorate him.
At 86, Francis will now be the oldest pope to preside over a World Youth Day celebration. If past World Youth Days are any indication, it could reinvigorate him.
MAKE ROOM FOR EVERYONE IN THE CHURCH, POPE FRANCIS TELLS YOUNG PEOPLE IN PORTUGAL
Pope Francis keeps repeating a message of inclusion: "The Lord does not point a finger, but opens wide his arms." But there is fierce resistance from some in the church.
Pope Francis keeps repeating a message of inclusion: "The Lord does not point a finger, but opens wide his arms." But there is fierce resistance from some in the church.
POPE FRANCIS RESTATES CATHOLIC CHURCH IS FOR EVERYONE, INCLUDING LGBTQ+ PEOPLE
"The Lord is clear. The sick, the elderly, the young, old, ugly, beautiful, good and bad."
"The Lord is clear. The sick, the elderly, the young, old, ugly, beautiful, good and bad."
DEAR BISHOP BARRON: THE PROBLEM IS THE CHURCH
Often, young people leave the Church because the Church doesn’t seem to have anything to do with the Gospels.
Often, young people leave the Church because the Church doesn’t seem to have anything to do with the Gospels.
BISHOP BARRON'S FEAR OF 'DUMBED-DOWN' CATHOLICISM ISN'T VERY SMART
The conservative critique of the synod will traffic in these caricatures about "Catholic Lite" and "dumbed-down Catholicism," even though most people look at Francis and what most stands out is the power and sincerity of his evangelical witness.
The conservative critique of the synod will traffic in these caricatures about "Catholic Lite" and "dumbed-down Catholicism," even though most people look at Francis and what most stands out is the power and sincerity of his evangelical witness.
LEARNING IS ALMOST ALWAYS UNCOMFORTABLE, AND THAT'S A GOOD THING
Instead of running away from the discomfort and difficult subjects necessary to be a well-educated citizen, moral person and good community member, what if we sought out those challenging educational opportunities on purpose?
Instead of running away from the discomfort and difficult subjects necessary to be a well-educated citizen, moral person and good community member, what if we sought out those challenging educational opportunities on purpose?
WHAT WOULD A "RE-CHURCHED" CHURCH LOOK LIKE?
The data clearly show that for more and more Americans every year, organized religion has become superfluous. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
The data clearly show that for more and more Americans every year, organized religion has become superfluous. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
WORDS TO AVOID AT CHURCH - THEY MIGHT NOT BE WHAT YOU’D EXPECT
How people come together, stay together, and live expressively depends on language that inspires belonging and faith.
How people come together, stay together, and live expressively depends on language that inspires belonging and faith.
A NEW TASK FOR CATHOLIC EDUCATORS: TEACHING HOW TO BE HUMAN IN A DIGITAL AGE
The formation of consciousness must be stoked by supplying children with a grammar of what it means to be human and an awareness of how our human essence is challenged by the digital age.
The formation of consciousness must be stoked by supplying children with a grammar of what it means to be human and an awareness of how our human essence is challenged by the digital age.
THE CATHOLIC DIASPORA: INDEPENDENT COMMUNITIES AS THE CHURCH'S 'RESEARCH LAB'
Former Catholics are everywhere. This diaspora, in differing degrees detached from institutional Roman Catholicism, often takes shape in communities that still claim the name Catholic.
Former Catholics are everywhere. This diaspora, in differing degrees detached from institutional Roman Catholicism, often takes shape in communities that still claim the name Catholic.
A NEW REFORMATION CAN TRANSCEND ALL BOUNDARIES
The morning has come when we can recognise in the face of any human being our brother or sister. Until we can do that, it is still night.
The morning has come when we can recognise in the face of any human being our brother or sister. Until we can do that, it is still night.
DEMOGRAPHIC FORCES BEYOND HIERARCHICAL CONTROL ARE CHANGING US CHURCH
This is no longer your grandmother's Catholic Church, but one that is increasingly multicultural and non-European, with fewer ordained priests every year
This is no longer your grandmother's Catholic Church, but one that is increasingly multicultural and non-European, with fewer ordained priests every year
LESS THAN A THIRD OF CATHOLICS SAY MARRIAGE AND KIDS ARE ‘VERY IMPORTANT’ TO A FULFILLING LIFE
While the American public generally supports a variety of family arrangements, the survey found, they more favorably view some types of families over others
While the American public generally supports a variety of family arrangements, the survey found, they more favorably view some types of families over others
THE LITURGY OF THE DOMESTIC CHURCH: WHEN FAITH AND FAMILY LIFE MIX
By following the Liturgy of Domestic Church Life we are able to implement simple, achievable practices that help us practice our baptismal mission to be priests, prophets and royals, both at home and in the world.
By following the Liturgy of Domestic Church Life we are able to implement simple, achievable practices that help us practice our baptismal mission to be priests, prophets and royals, both at home and in the world.
FRANCISCAN PRIEST: “NONES” WON’T RETURN WITHOUT HELP
They’re going to get married outside the church, have kids and not introduce them to the faith of Jesus Christ, and not think twice about it.
They’re going to get married outside the church, have kids and not introduce them to the faith of Jesus Christ, and not think twice about it.
LAS VEGAS ARCHBISHOP: POPE FRANCIS HAS 'OPENED OUR HEARTS AND DOORS'
Pope Francis has asked us to open our hearts and our doors to the diverse cultures in our communities, Las Vegas Archbishop George Thomas said in a homily at a Mass marking the elevation of the new archdiocese.
Pope Francis has asked us to open our hearts and our doors to the diverse cultures in our communities, Las Vegas Archbishop George Thomas said in a homily at a Mass marking the elevation of the new archdiocese.
VIEW FROM ROME: SYNOD LUKEWARM RESPONSE?
There is work to do to ensure everyone is rowing in the same direction ahead of the crucial second Synod in October 2024. Some bishops are trying to race ahead with the reforms, while others are dragging their oars.
There is work to do to ensure everyone is rowing in the same direction ahead of the crucial second Synod in October 2024. Some bishops are trying to race ahead with the reforms, while others are dragging their oars.
CHANGING CHURCH, CULTURE WARS: NCR'S TOP 10 OPINION ARTICLES OF 2023
These 10 pieces were NCR's most read — not necessarily the most important — opinion articles and commentaries of the year.
These 10 pieces were NCR's most read — not necessarily the most important — opinion articles and commentaries of the year.
IN A SECULAR AGE, SOME YOUNG AMERICANS STILL CHOOSE RELIGIOUS LIFE
While the numbers of priests and nuns have declined in recent decades, many millennials and Gen Zers still find a calling to religious life in the Catholic Church, even if the path to discernment has changed.
While the numbers of priests and nuns have declined in recent decades, many millennials and Gen Zers still find a calling to religious life in the Catholic Church, even if the path to discernment has changed.
THE CATHOLICS WHO REFUSE TO LEAVE
Despite struggling with institutional inadequacies, some Catholics are set on keeping the church as their spiritual home.
Despite struggling with institutional inadequacies, some Catholics are set on keeping the church as their spiritual home.
POPE FRANCIS’ FOCUS ON THE BIBLE AND MERCY—AND WHY SO MANY CATHOLICS ARE UNCOMFORTABLE WITH IT
We can see the ways in which the Bible has guided Francis’ pontificate—and why Pope Francis’ use of the Bible has created not just joy for many, but fear and even confusion for others.
We can see the ways in which the Bible has guided Francis’ pontificate—and why Pope Francis’ use of the Bible has created not just joy for many, but fear and even confusion for others.
RADICAL HOSPITALITY FOR A PROPHETIC CHURCH
Similarity-in-Difference: Amanda D. Quantz on Interspirituality, Radical Hospitality, and the Ministry of Presence.
Similarity-in-Difference: Amanda D. Quantz on Interspirituality, Radical Hospitality, and the Ministry of Presence.
A DIFFERENT EDUCATION: SISTERS AND SEEKERS
Millennials are learning new ways to practice spirituality and social justice. Nuns are finding new pathways for nourishing and growing another generation.
Millennials are learning new ways to practice spirituality and social justice. Nuns are finding new pathways for nourishing and growing another generation.
NEW PEW STUDY DEBUNKS MYTHS ABOUT AMERICA’S NONRELIGIOUS
'Today, the ‘nones’ kind of look like everybody else,' said sociologist Ryan Cragun. 'At some level, we're saying, hey, actually, this is just your neighbor.'
'Today, the ‘nones’ kind of look like everybody else,' said sociologist Ryan Cragun. 'At some level, we're saying, hey, actually, this is just your neighbor.'
HOW THIS ANGLICAN-CATHOLIC SCHOOL HELPS CHILDREN WITH ADHD
Six years ago, the school introduced a new system to encourage children to identify their feelings before the day begins.
Six years ago, the school introduced a new system to encourage children to identify their feelings before the day begins.
TOLKIEN ON LOYALTY TO THE CHURCH
From 1963 to 1967 (during the Second Vatican Council), J.R.R. Tolkien wrote several letters to his son Michael. In them, Tolkien, who personally disliked many of the changes then being made to Church discipline and practice, explains why and how to be loyal to the Church in a time of great turmoil.
From 1963 to 1967 (during the Second Vatican Council), J.R.R. Tolkien wrote several letters to his son Michael. In them, Tolkien, who personally disliked many of the changes then being made to Church discipline and practice, explains why and how to be loyal to the Church in a time of great turmoil.
THE CONTROVERSIAL MOVEMENT THAT COULD ENERGIZE THE CHURCH
The Catholic Charismatic Renewal has reinvigorated Catholic communities across Latin America—but not without some pushback.
The Catholic Charismatic Renewal has reinvigorated Catholic communities across Latin America—but not without some pushback.
WORK FOR THE COMMON GOOD, EVEN IF IT DOESN’T BENEFIT YOU PERSONALLY
In Catholic teaching, the common good is not a matter of everyone getting the things they want.
In Catholic teaching, the common good is not a matter of everyone getting the things they want.
THE EUCHARIST AND HUMAN DIGNITY
The Eucharist is dignifying because it is a real encounter with God, a sacred celebration of community, a reminder of the real possibility of the human person entering an intimate relationship with God.
The Eucharist is dignifying because it is a real encounter with God, a sacred celebration of community, a reminder of the real possibility of the human person entering an intimate relationship with God.
NUNS IN A TIME OF NONES: THE WINDING PATH TO TODAY’S RELIGIOUS VOCATIONS
From 2020 to 2022, more than 900 women and men entered religious life. They all took their own, sometimes circuitous routes to get there.
From 2020 to 2022, more than 900 women and men entered religious life. They all took their own, sometimes circuitous routes to get there.
WHY DO I STILL GO TO CHURCH? - IT’S A GOOD QUESTION
There's more to it than community or spirituality or even wanting to raise our kids right.
There's more to it than community or spirituality or even wanting to raise our kids right.
THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT MARY MAGDALENE
What if the text was changed to suppress Mary Magdalene as not only the first witness of Jesus in John 20, but as the Christological confessor, which would make her a central character in the Gospel of John?
What if the text was changed to suppress Mary Magdalene as not only the first witness of Jesus in John 20, but as the Christological confessor, which would make her a central character in the Gospel of John?
THE EUCHARIST IS THE ‘SOURCE AND SUMMIT’ OF CHRISTIAN LIFE. WHAT DOES THAT REALLY MEAN?
Is our intense focus on the form of liturgical celebration placing a disproportionate emphasis upon the Eucharist as the summit of Christian life?
Is our intense focus on the form of liturgical celebration placing a disproportionate emphasis upon the Eucharist as the summit of Christian life?
PARISH ‘SUMMIT’ TAKES PLACE THIS SUMMER AS CHURCH PLANS FOR DECADE OF RESURRECTION
The summit, which takes place in June, aims to inspire a vision of a renewed church that encourages parishes into mission.
The summit, which takes place in June, aims to inspire a vision of a renewed church that encourages parishes into mission.
IS POLARIZATION BAKED INTO THE AMERICAN CATHOLIC MIX?
The idea that Catholics automatically vote conservative is at odds with most of U.S. history.
The idea that Catholics automatically vote conservative is at odds with most of U.S. history.
WHERE HAVE ALL THE VOLUNTEERS GONE?: BEHIND THE DECLINE OF AFTER-COLLEGE SERVICE
Fewer young people are choosing full-time service after college. How will volunteer organizations adapt?
Fewer young people are choosing full-time service after college. How will volunteer organizations adapt?
IS THE CHURCH READY FOR RADICAL SIMPLICITY?
Broadly speaking, Christian theological development has been left in the dust of the Middle Ages, with few noteworthy theologians willing to risk their necks on the chopping block of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
Broadly speaking, Christian theological development has been left in the dust of the Middle Ages, with few noteworthy theologians willing to risk their necks on the chopping block of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.
AT CHRISTIAN COLLEGES, DOES LEARNING CLASH WITH RELIGIOUS MISSION?
From Catholic University of America to Grove City College, Christian schools are struggling to foster dialogue on abortion, racism, and LGBTQ+ rights.
From Catholic University of America to Grove City College, Christian schools are struggling to foster dialogue on abortion, racism, and LGBTQ+ rights.
THE REAL PRESENCE SHOULDN’T BE THE ONLY FOCUS OF THE EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL
An overemphasis, or a myopic focus, on the real presence in the Eucharist could be distracting and even misleading.
An overemphasis, or a myopic focus, on the real presence in the Eucharist could be distracting and even misleading.
WAYS TO CELEBRATE WHAT’S GOOD IN THE PEOPLE AROUND US
How we see the world around us depends on our state of mind. Here are ways to cultivate an awareness of the goodness of the people in our lives.
How we see the world around us depends on our state of mind. Here are ways to cultivate an awareness of the goodness of the people in our lives.
THE RESURRECTION OF THE BODIES WE HAVE
God, through the work of Jesus Christ, does not just raise us from the dead, but transforms us in the bodies we have.
God, through the work of Jesus Christ, does not just raise us from the dead, but transforms us in the bodies we have.
THE ‘SPIRIT’ OF VATICAN II CONSERVATISM? - THERE’S MORE TO THE COUNCIL THAN THE TEXTS
U.S. Catholics in different theological quarters need to stop viewing one another as holdovers of a previous era, unable ever to reconcile.
U.S. Catholics in different theological quarters need to stop viewing one another as holdovers of a previous era, unable ever to reconcile.
JUBILANT POPE, KIDS MARK 1ST WORLD CHILDREN’S DAY TOGETHER
It was hard to decide who enjoyed the afternoon more: the 87-year-old Pontiff handing out a huge basket of sweets, or the children from around the world.
It was hard to decide who enjoyed the afternoon more: the 87-year-old Pontiff handing out a huge basket of sweets, or the children from around the world.
THE RISE OF THE “NONES” MAY BE DONE
While the non-religious are still the plurality in the US, the upward trend may have leveled out, with some data showing their decline.
While the non-religious are still the plurality in the US, the upward trend may have leveled out, with some data showing their decline.
CONFRONTING AGEISM
From the greeting card aisle to the workplace, negative stereotypes about aging abound. This author argues that it’s time to recognize and counter ageism.
From the greeting card aisle to the workplace, negative stereotypes about aging abound. This author argues that it’s time to recognize and counter ageism.
THE MOMENT FOR THE HISPANIC CATHOLIC CHURCH IN THE UNITED STATES IS NOW
Trusting Hispanic leaders to be at the helm of major ministerial efforts makes a major difference.
Trusting Hispanic leaders to be at the helm of major ministerial efforts makes a major difference.
HOW PARISHES CAN HELP CATHOLICS PREPARE FOR DEATH
The parish can be a nexus for sharing hopes and fears about the last stage of life. Clarifying Catholic teaching about medical technologies and care at the end of life would be another helpful step.
The parish can be a nexus for sharing hopes and fears about the last stage of life. Clarifying Catholic teaching about medical technologies and care at the end of life would be another helpful step.
VACATION AND VIRTUE - THE SPIRITUAL BENEFITS OF PRAYERFUL PLAY
Our crabbed, modern way of thinking makes it hard to imagine a deeply felt religious ritual that was also a lot of fun. That’s our loss.
Our crabbed, modern way of thinking makes it hard to imagine a deeply felt religious ritual that was also a lot of fun. That’s our loss.
THE EUCHARISTIC VOCATION OF A CATHOLIC SCHOOL
What does the Eucharist have to do with the Catholic school? During this period of the Eucharistic Revival, this is a pivotal question, especially as our institutions continue to discern what it means to be Catholic today.
What does the Eucharist have to do with the Catholic school? During this period of the Eucharistic Revival, this is a pivotal question, especially as our institutions continue to discern what it means to be Catholic today.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN INCLUSIVE CHURCH?
Being a community means welcoming those with diverse views, not cocooning oneself with like-minded people.
Being a community means welcoming those with diverse views, not cocooning oneself with like-minded people.
POPE FRANCIS: IN POLITICS, CATHOLICS CANNOT LIVE A ‘PRIVATE FAITH’
Democracy is meant “to give meaning to everyone’s commitment to the transformation of society; to give attention to the people who remain outside or on the margins; to give space to social solidarity in all its forms; to give support to the ethic of the common good.
Democracy is meant “to give meaning to everyone’s commitment to the transformation of society; to give attention to the people who remain outside or on the margins; to give space to social solidarity in all its forms; to give support to the ethic of the common good.
EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL AND SYNODALITY
Synodality is about communion, participation and mission; so, too, is the Eucharist. Too bad the Eucharistic Revival is not.
Synodality is about communion, participation and mission; so, too, is the Eucharist. Too bad the Eucharistic Revival is not.
ANY EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL MUST INCLUDE NONPRACTICING CATHOLICS
Eucharistic hospitality is an ethical act of liturgical solidarity.
Eucharistic hospitality is an ethical act of liturgical solidarity.
TWO MONTHS WITH THE EUCHARIST: NOW WHAT?
The 4 routes of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage are set to converge on Indianapolis. The pilgrims, and everyone they'll find in Indy, are now to be sent forth.
The 4 routes of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage are set to converge on Indianapolis. The pilgrims, and everyone they'll find in Indy, are now to be sent forth.
GOD DID NOT SAVE DONALD TRUMP - WHAT LESSON SHOULD WE TAKE?
The recent assassination attempt should cause us to consider how combustible our country is right now, so divided, so angry, so fearful. It should cause those of us who believe in God to take a closer look at our theology.
The recent assassination attempt should cause us to consider how combustible our country is right now, so divided, so angry, so fearful. It should cause those of us who believe in God to take a closer look at our theology.
NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS, A CATHOLIC MEGA-EVENT, TO KICK OFF EVANGELIZATION YEAR
It’s a bad look to be spending $14 million that arguably we don’t need to spend on a Eucharistic Revival while we are abandoning peace and justice ministries at the national level
It’s a bad look to be spending $14 million that arguably we don’t need to spend on a Eucharistic Revival while we are abandoning peace and justice ministries at the national level
TRULY HONORING THE BODY OF CHRIST
Considering the situation in the United States, we can only hope that the Eucharistic revival will lead to greater attention to the body of Christ in the "uncomfortable tabernacles" of poverty and marginalization.
Considering the situation in the United States, we can only hope that the Eucharistic revival will lead to greater attention to the body of Christ in the "uncomfortable tabernacles" of poverty and marginalization.
FIRST STEPS IN PARISH EVANGELIZATION MINISTRY: WAYS TO GET STARTED
The Eucharistic Revival is a strong reminder of our apostolic mission to go out and tell the Good News. This ministry requires that we be highly personal and relational.
The Eucharistic Revival is a strong reminder of our apostolic mission to go out and tell the Good News. This ministry requires that we be highly personal and relational.
WAYS TO PRACTICE THE ART OF LISTENING
In our 21st-century outrage culture, the art of listening is so important but is rarely practiced. Sadly, none of us is immune to the temptation to scapegoat people, whether family members or total strangers.
In our 21st-century outrage culture, the art of listening is so important but is rarely practiced. Sadly, none of us is immune to the temptation to scapegoat people, whether family members or total strangers.
TIM BUSCH AND JIM MARTIN BRING LEFT AND RIGHT CATHOLICS TOGETHER OVER DINNER AND WINE
The unlikely duo of conservative businessman and Jesuit priest hope to bridge the divide in the church.
The unlikely duo of conservative businessman and Jesuit priest hope to bridge the divide in the church.
SAVING THE SOUL OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION
It is the belief that students should have more than job training. They should have an opportunity to learn and think about themselves, their families and neighbors, the common good, and creation.
It is the belief that students should have more than job training. They should have an opportunity to learn and think about themselves, their families and neighbors, the common good, and creation.
POLITICS, PROPHETS, AND FAMILY
When we sit down face-to-face with a friend, family member, or neighbor, we have an opportunity to create safe space for vulnerability. We can simply listen without offering rebuttal. We can emanate gentleness and understanding.
When we sit down face-to-face with a friend, family member, or neighbor, we have an opportunity to create safe space for vulnerability. We can simply listen without offering rebuttal. We can emanate gentleness and understanding.
...A GODDAUGHTER’S RESPONSE - SPANNING GENERATIONAL DIVIDES
The digital world is all-encompassing in a way that older generations struggle to appreciat.
The digital world is all-encompassing in a way that older generations struggle to appreciat.
PRESENT TOGETHER: THE BASICS OF OUR CHRISTIAN LIFE
We must look forward, he says, “to the point when the whole mystery of God will be known in the clasp of your brother’s hand.”
We must look forward, he says, “to the point when the whole mystery of God will be known in the clasp of your brother’s hand.”
CAPTIVE USERS - HOW THE INTERNET IS REMAKING US
The internet is a problem; on this point many critics and users seem to agree. It enervates, isolates, and distracts; it makes our children anxious and unhappy; it divides us socially and politically. But what kind of problem is it exactly
The internet is a problem; on this point many critics and users seem to agree. It enervates, isolates, and distracts; it makes our children anxious and unhappy; it divides us socially and politically. But what kind of problem is it exactly
BACK TO SCHOOL LESSONS FROM SAINT BENEDICT
The first day of school can be scary, and it’s especially scary when you’re the teacher.
The first day of school can be scary, and it’s especially scary when you’re the teacher.
PRRI REPORT REVEALS SHIFTING DYNAMICS OF US RELIGIOUS LANDSCAPE
A new report by the Public Religion Research Institute shows that as the U.S. has become more racially and ethnically diverse, the percentage of white Christians has declined more than 15% since 2013.
A new report by the Public Religion Research Institute shows that as the U.S. has become more racially and ethnically diverse, the percentage of white Christians has declined more than 15% since 2013.
CHRISTIANITY SHOULD EMPOWER AND LIBERATE CHILDREN
A U.S. CATHOLIC INTERVIEW - What would the church look like if we allowed children to do their own theology?
A U.S. CATHOLIC INTERVIEW - What would the church look like if we allowed children to do their own theology?
HOW CAN A CONGREGATION CHANGE ITS CULTURE?
Church structure is important. But church culture matters, too: it’s what makes any organization a living organism.
Church structure is important. But church culture matters, too: it’s what makes any organization a living organism.
IN TOO MANY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS, FAITH HAS BECOME LIKE ‘FROSTING ON A SECULAR CAKE’
The intellectual content at Catholic schools cannot just be "Catholic frosting on a secular cake," but should instead be like yeast, infusing every aspect of education.
The intellectual content at Catholic schools cannot just be "Catholic frosting on a secular cake," but should instead be like yeast, infusing every aspect of education.
CATHOLIC CULTURE - A CULTURE OF BEING AND RECEPTIVITY
Catholic culture is ultimately a marvelously capacious way of being, a limitless capacity to engage everything that comes our way in all its giftedness and gratuity and return it to its Creator in the mode of worship and of praise.
Catholic culture is ultimately a marvelously capacious way of being, a limitless capacity to engage everything that comes our way in all its giftedness and gratuity and return it to its Creator in the mode of worship and of praise.
THE HARVEST IS ABUNDANT: ENCOUNTERING GOD’S LABORERS IN UNEXPECTED PLACES
Sometimes God’s laborers might not look the way we expect them to. They might work at times and in places we wouldn’t expect to see them.
Sometimes God’s laborers might not look the way we expect them to. They might work at times and in places we wouldn’t expect to see them.
SACRED DUTY OR SPIRITUAL TRUTH? THE ROLE OF RELIGION IN SOCIETY
Much of everyday modern humanity takes the most basic value of religion to be its truth value. This is largely due to Christianity, and it has long been the position of most Christians and virtually every village atheist, even those of the global village.
Much of everyday modern humanity takes the most basic value of religion to be its truth value. This is largely due to Christianity, and it has long been the position of most Christians and virtually every village atheist, even those of the global village.
CATHOLICS SHOULD STOP SAYING “WE DON’T FIT IN ANYWHERE”—IT GENERATES A FALSE EQUIVALENCY
We are at a critical moment in history, and we, the church, cannot hide behind both-sidesism in the name of being Catholic. It may be the case that Catholic principles invite us to critique both parties for various policy positions.
We are at a critical moment in history, and we, the church, cannot hide behind both-sidesism in the name of being Catholic. It may be the case that Catholic principles invite us to critique both parties for various policy positions.
CULTURAL CATHOLICS: THE LOOSELY-TETHERED HALF OF THE AMERICAN CHURCH
What matters most when we reach out to Catholics who do not attend Mass regularly (aka "cultural Catholics")? Everything.
What matters most when we reach out to Catholics who do not attend Mass regularly (aka "cultural Catholics")? Everything.
ANCESTRAL BLESSINGS | WHO DO YOU BRING INTO WORSHIP WITH YOU?
Whose spirit is with you today as you enter into worship? To whom are you particularly grateful or indebted? Whose blessing, guidance, provocation, or love accompanies you especially powerfully at this moment?
Whose spirit is with you today as you enter into worship? To whom are you particularly grateful or indebted? Whose blessing, guidance, provocation, or love accompanies you especially powerfully at this moment?
LESSONS FOR THE GLOBAL CHURCH FROM THE POPE’S HOMELAND
A trip to Argentina shows not only Francis’ legacy here, but also the model of ministry that shaped him.
A trip to Argentina shows not only Francis’ legacy here, but also the model of ministry that shaped him.
THE SOCIAL HEART
Do societies have hearts? Francis seems to think so. And the prophet Ezekiel, speaking for the Lord, indicates a sociopolitical heart when he says that God shall give the wayward Israelites “one heart and put a new spirit within them.”
Do societies have hearts? Francis seems to think so. And the prophet Ezekiel, speaking for the Lord, indicates a sociopolitical heart when he says that God shall give the wayward Israelites “one heart and put a new spirit within them.”
CULTURE WARS IN THE CHURCH HAS INNOCENT VICTIMS: THE PARISHIONERS
These culture wars in the Church are being fought by a Caste of “professional Catholics” – clergy and religious, professors, and journalists. Like most wars, the issues may be important, but there are innocent victims. In this case, it’s the average parishioner. The war is unlikely to end soon, but the Church should try harder to keep the non-combatants out of the fray.
These culture wars in the Church are being fought by a Caste of “professional Catholics” – clergy and religious, professors, and journalists. Like most wars, the issues may be important, but there are innocent victims. In this case, it’s the average parishioner. The war is unlikely to end soon, but the Church should try harder to keep the non-combatants out of the fray.
IN TEXAS, AN UNCOMMON COLLABORATION BETWEEN TWO HIGH-PROFILE CATHOLIC LEADERS
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (RNS) — According to Sister Norma Pimentel, she and Bishop Daniel Flores share an emphasis on a pastoral approach.
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (RNS) — According to Sister Norma Pimentel, she and Bishop Daniel Flores share an emphasis on a pastoral approach.
VISUAL TOUR OF THE HOLY DOORS POPE FRANCIS WILL OPEN FOR THE 2025 JUBILEE
The rite of opening the Holy Doors of the main basilicas of Rome to inaugurate the 2025 Jubilee Year is perhaps one of the most solemn events of the Catholic Church, with centuries of tradition.
The rite of opening the Holy Doors of the main basilicas of Rome to inaugurate the 2025 Jubilee Year is perhaps one of the most solemn events of the Catholic Church, with centuries of tradition.
POPE FRANCIS 'THROWS OPEN' HOLY DOOR TO INAUGURATE 2025 JUBILEE
With the liturgical gesture of the Door's opening at the start of the Christmas Mass during the Night the Pope inaugurated the Ordinary Jubilee, a historic event taking place every 25 years.
With the liturgical gesture of the Door's opening at the start of the Christmas Mass during the Night the Pope inaugurated the Ordinary Jubilee, a historic event taking place every 25 years.
POPE OPENS 2025 JUBILEE DREAMING OF 'NEW WORLD WHERE PEACE AND JUSTICE REIGN'
The Jubilee calls us to spiritual renewal and commits us to the transformation of our world, so that this year may truly become a time of jubilation
The Jubilee calls us to spiritual renewal and commits us to the transformation of our world, so that this year may truly become a time of jubilation
URBI ET ORBI: POPE FRANCIS URGES WORLD LEADERS TO PURSUE DIALOGUE, PEACE IN JUBILEE YEAR
Pope Francis on Christmas Day delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi address and blessing in Vatican City, inviting all individuals and nations to “silence the sound of arms and overcome divisions.”
Pope Francis on Christmas Day delivered the traditional Urbi et Orbi address and blessing in Vatican City, inviting all individuals and nations to “silence the sound of arms and overcome divisions.”
POPE FRANCIS: HOW TO BE ‘PILGRIMS OF HOPE’ DURING 2025 JUBILEE YEAR
“Kindness is not a diplomatic strategy” nor “a set of rules to ensure social harmony or to obtain other advantages” but rather “a form of love that opens hearts to acceptance and helps us all to become more humble.”
“Kindness is not a diplomatic strategy” nor “a set of rules to ensure social harmony or to obtain other advantages” but rather “a form of love that opens hearts to acceptance and helps us all to become more humble.”
SHALOM AND A CATHOLIC APPROACH TO PSYCHOLOGY
This article is the last in a four-part series on mental health. The previous articles in the series have addressed the science of psychology, the ways that faith can help those suffering from mental illness, and the role of evil in our approach to mental health
This article is the last in a four-part series on mental health. The previous articles in the series have addressed the science of psychology, the ways that faith can help those suffering from mental illness, and the role of evil in our approach to mental health
THESE DIFFICULT TIMES REQUIRE US BECOMING 'MATURE DISCIPLES'
We do not know what lies ahead, but we can ground ourselves in prayer and be nourished by the gift of God's grace in order to bless those around us, especially those in the most precarious social locations.
We do not know what lies ahead, but we can ground ourselves in prayer and be nourished by the gift of God's grace in order to bless those around us, especially those in the most precarious social locations.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A CHRISTIAN IN THESE TIMES?
We have a cross at the center of our faith, and we need to start acting like it. There is no time that is not a kairos time, no time when God is not fully present and providing a way to God’s future.
We have a cross at the center of our faith, and we need to start acting like it. There is no time that is not a kairos time, no time when God is not fully present and providing a way to God’s future.
THE PEOPLE OF GOD AS A COMMUNITARIAN AND HISTORICAL SUBJECT
This article is based on a conference given by theologian Rafael Luciani at the Annual Meeting of the Latin American and Caribbean Women and Men Confederation (CLAR) for the preparation of the Third Phase of the Synod.
This article is based on a conference given by theologian Rafael Luciani at the Annual Meeting of the Latin American and Caribbean Women and Men Confederation (CLAR) for the preparation of the Third Phase of the Synod.
THE FAMILY AS CHURCH AND RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY
What makes for church is not emotional intimacy (good as that is) but a gathering around the person of Christ and a common sharing of one Spirit
What makes for church is not emotional intimacy (good as that is) but a gathering around the person of Christ and a common sharing of one Spirit
CALLED TO COMMUNITY - MADE FOR COMMUNITY
No one comes from a perfect family, but everyone comes from a family that can be better. The family becomes better when its individual members become better, more virtuous people. They do that by forming one another through truthful dialogue and corresponding action.
No one comes from a perfect family, but everyone comes from a family that can be better. The family becomes better when its individual members become better, more virtuous people. They do that by forming one another through truthful dialogue and corresponding action.
INSTEAD OF CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM, TRY CHRISTIAN COSMOPOLITANISM
Rooted in the teachings of Jesus, Christian cosmopolitanism calls us to love our enemies, welcome strangers and emulate the Good Samaritan. In the Hebrew Bible, which presents the Israelites as God’s chosen people, Scripture also commands us to treat the foreigners among us as native-born and to love them as ourselves.
Rooted in the teachings of Jesus, Christian cosmopolitanism calls us to love our enemies, welcome strangers and emulate the Good Samaritan. In the Hebrew Bible, which presents the Israelites as God’s chosen people, Scripture also commands us to treat the foreigners among us as native-born and to love them as ourselves.
HIGH HOPES FOR THE JUBILEE
A survey of the news hardly inspires hope. The political divide in this country hasn’t improved. Foreign wars, hunger at home and famine abroad, and crime are almost always followed by apathy. Life is hard—but it wasn’t designed to be easy.
A survey of the news hardly inspires hope. The political divide in this country hasn’t improved. Foreign wars, hunger at home and famine abroad, and crime are almost always followed by apathy. Life is hard—but it wasn’t designed to be easy.
AT TODAY'S TURNING POINT, HOW WILL THE HOLY SPIRIT STEER US?
How will the Holy Spirit steer us to adapt the methods we use to communicate the lessons of Jesus, the teachings of the Savior, to the world? Will it have something to do with social media? Or with turning our backs on social media?
How will the Holy Spirit steer us to adapt the methods we use to communicate the lessons of Jesus, the teachings of the Savior, to the world? Will it have something to do with social media? Or with turning our backs on social media?
US CATHOLICS SUPPORT PROGRESSIVE POLICIES ON 'CULTURE WAR' ISSUES, NEW STUDY FINDS
Majorities of U.S. Catholics support progressive policies on "culture war" issues, such as abortion and gay marriage, according to a new survey of the country's religious landscape. Still, twice as many Catholics describe themselves as conservative than identify as liberal.
Majorities of U.S. Catholics support progressive policies on "culture war" issues, such as abortion and gay marriage, according to a new survey of the country's religious landscape. Still, twice as many Catholics describe themselves as conservative than identify as liberal.
INTENTIONAL COMMUNITIES ARE CHANGING TO MEET THE TIMES
Though Catholic intentional communities come in different forms and are rooted in different values they all face many of the same challenges.
Though Catholic intentional communities come in different forms and are rooted in different values they all face many of the same challenges.
DECLINE IN U.S. CATHOLIC CHURCH DOESN’T HAVE A POLITICAL SOLUTION
The Pew Research Center released a new survey on religion in America last week, the first such major study since 2014. The news wasn’t good for the Catholic Church.
The Pew Research Center released a new survey on religion in America last week, the first such major study since 2014. The news wasn’t good for the Catholic Church.
MEN AND BOYS ARE LOST. THE CHURCH CAN GIVE THEM A BETTER MODEL OF MANLINESS
The “manosphere” calls for more testosterone, more spectacle. But servant leadership, embodied in Catholic men’s groups past and present, encompass the fullness of human experience.
The “manosphere” calls for more testosterone, more spectacle. But servant leadership, embodied in Catholic men’s groups past and present, encompass the fullness of human experience.
5 YEARS AFTER COVID-19: WHAT WE CAN'T SHAKE
At the five-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic — officially declared in the U.S. on March 11, 2020 — we have in many ways returned to normal life. This goes for the Catholic Church as well, which according to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University, is back to its pre-pandemic numbers for Sunday Masses.
At the five-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic — officially declared in the U.S. on March 11, 2020 — we have in many ways returned to normal life. This goes for the Catholic Church as well, which according to the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University, is back to its pre-pandemic numbers for Sunday Masses.
A VIBRANT CHURCH CARES FOR A PERSON’S MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT
An ideal parish creates regular opportunities for people to encounter Christ through worship, scripture, reflection, and prayer. This doesn’t mean one specific type of prayer or music or a particular style of liturgy. These should exist in the cultural context of the local community and help each individual discover their identity as a beloved and redeemed child of God.
An ideal parish creates regular opportunities for people to encounter Christ through worship, scripture, reflection, and prayer. This doesn’t mean one specific type of prayer or music or a particular style of liturgy. These should exist in the cultural context of the local community and help each individual discover their identity as a beloved and redeemed child of God.
FOLK SAINTS, CANONIZED OR NOT, CHAMPION LIBERATION FOR ALL
For many, devotion to folk saints is a matter of keeping hope alive. Their involvement in people’s lives testifies to people’s resilience in the face of adversity, exploitation, violence, and greed. These saints invite and inspire people to act, according to their own gifts and in their everyday contexts, to birth God into the world.
For many, devotion to folk saints is a matter of keeping hope alive. Their involvement in people’s lives testifies to people’s resilience in the face of adversity, exploitation, violence, and greed. These saints invite and inspire people to act, according to their own gifts and in their everyday contexts, to birth God into the world.
THE FORMATION OF THE GOSPELS AND GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY
The Gospels record the life and teaching, the death and resurrection of Jesus, as told to us through the faith of the Apostles who knew him and loved him. The Apostles are telling the story of Jesus in faith and for faith.
The Gospels record the life and teaching, the death and resurrection of Jesus, as told to us through the faith of the Apostles who knew him and loved him. The Apostles are telling the story of Jesus in faith and for faith.
SEVEN THOUGHTS ON THE CHURCH (AS A COMMUNITY OF HUMAN BEINGS)
If we are to understand how to imagine the Church we must begin with what faith tells us and work out from there. Here is a theological framework within which we can approach questions about the character of the Church as a community of human beings.
If we are to understand how to imagine the Church we must begin with what faith tells us and work out from there. Here is a theological framework within which we can approach questions about the character of the Church as a community of human beings.
THE CHURCH MUST MOVE TOWARD A MORE MATURE CHRISTIANITY
It’s time to wake up from the church’s “siesta,” to learn from crisis, and to move toward a deeper, more mature form of Christianity. It’s about embarking on a “journey into the depths.”
It’s time to wake up from the church’s “siesta,” to learn from crisis, and to move toward a deeper, more mature form of Christianity. It’s about embarking on a “journey into the depths.”
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