The recent comment by Pope Francis that people who have pets instead of children are, sometimes at least, manifesting selfishness brought predictable howls from pet lovers and those who felt he was treading on their sacred right to do whatever they please. But along with unintentionally giving media the sort of juicy flap over trivia that they relish, the pope was identifying a grave and growing problem for nations around the globe.
Who doesn't want the church to grow or the next generation of Catholics to embrace a deep love for their faith? One simple way we can do this is by asking how our parishes are welcoming to families — of all ages, abilities, shapes and sizes.
In December, many in Virginia listened with hope as the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case concerning Mississippi’s ban on most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy.
As I write this, we are on the eve of the first anniversary of my mother’s death. The last in a year of firsts. I know I’m not alone in this — just in my circles alone, I know so many people who have lost a loved one this year. It has been a rough year for a lot of us.
I’m a big proponent of self-care. I believe that women should take care of themselves in every stage of their lives. In fact, rallying women to be good at self-care has become a passion of mine.
When I made my first confession, I clutched an index card with sweaty palms. On one side, I'd copied the act of contrition, dutifully memorized — but what if I tripped up in the heat of the moment? On the reverse was a detailed list of my sins, anxiously scribbled lest I miss one.
On the morning of Jan. 5, a fire tore through a Philadelphia rowhouse that had been converted into apartments. Twelve people died, including nine children.
Q. Throughout the year — but especially during the Christmas season — we hear from many sources (homilies, meditation guides, etc.) that Christ came "to free us from sin and death."
St. Augustine said, “the sacraments are visible signs of an invisible reality.” The church, the body of Christ, is a living reality encompassing a variety of people, including children and adults who are emotionally, physically or mentally challenged.
Wisdom of God
GOSPEL COMMENTARY Jan. 30, Lk 4:21-30