How is it that in the midst of our deepest trials, during the times when we feel stripped down to absolutely nothing, that we could possibly give thanks? Where does gratitude exist in times of what seems like non-existence – when no one fully comprehends the impact of what it means to be homeless except for those living without a roof over their head?
Every now and then, I find in the offices of pastoral leaders and theologians, as well as in the homes of some families I know, a picture of them shaking hands with one of the recent popes.
On Friday, Nov. 3, there was a solemn and beautiful celebration at St. Nicholas of Tolentine for Candidates for the Permanent Diaconate. The Mass was celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop James Massa who spoke so eloquently about the importance of the Word of God.
by Father John Catoir
The late Bishop Fulton Sheen explained that there are two kinds of truths: “Outer truths, which we master, like the distance of the Sun from the Earth; and inner truths, which master us; for example: God is merciful to the penitent. Inner truths affect a person’s destiny, like a vocational calling; they are matters of conscience.”
by Rita Piro
November is well known as the time of year when the Church remembers her dead. Right on the heels of the joyous All Saints Day, Nov. 1, comes the more somber All Souls Day, Nov. 2, when we remember those we love who have been called home to God.
As old as the poem “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” is, its lesson is very apropos for our technological age.
by Father John Catoir
To some, the devil is nothing more than a silly Halloween costume. Nothing could be further from the truth.
by Father John Catoir
Everyone agrees with Jesus, “What God has joined together, let no man put asunder” – Mark 10:9. When a marriage case comes before any Diocesan Tribunal, the question before the Chief Judge is this: Was this marriage joined together by God, or not? In other words, the presumption of validity can be challenged.
by Carol Powell
Prior to a year ago, if anyone asked me what nationality I was, I would have said, “I am American of Italian descent.” That was before I sent a sample of my DNA to Ancestry.com.
by Kathleen M. Gallagher
My friend Mary is one-of-a-kind. She is a retired police lieutenant from suburban Long Island, where we both grew up. Today Mary has relocated to a rural hamlet in the northernmost county of New York State. She owns a 300+ acre farm that includes goats, cows, horses, a donkey, two dogs, and lots of chickens, some of whom occasionally roam through the farmhouse.
