'Christmas Catholics' an opportunity to grow Church
MONTREAL – Christmas is just around the corner, and so are thousands of Catholics who ritually fill churches every Christmas Eve.
Elements of Vatican nativity scene cause a stir
VATICAN – The Nativity scene in St. Peter's Square is not getting rave reviews: The backdrop does not look like a stable and the characters in need – hungry, naked, dead, imprisoned – don't exactly evoke a silent night when all was cozy, calm and bright. Franciscan Father John Puodziunas said he didn't like it at first.
Sunday has lost its sense as day of rest, renewal in Christ, Pope says
VATICAN – Just like a plant needs sun and nourishment to survive, every Christian needs the light of Sunday and the sustenance of the Eucharist to truly live, Pope Francis said.
Christian vocation is to serve life, health, Pope says
VATICAN – The Catholic Church's care for the sick, especially through Catholic-run hospitals, is an antidote to "the business mentality that is seeking worldwide to turn health care into a profit-making enterprise," Pope Francis said.
God's word on Sunday: Prepare for God by using time wisely
2nd Sunday of Advent, Dec. 10 (Year B) Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11; Psalm 85; 2 Peter 3:8-14; Mark 1:1-8
There is a schedule or plan known only to God and then there is the human calendar, but the two are rarely the same. That is where our trouble begins.
There is a schedule or plan known only to God and then there is the human calendar, but the two are rarely the same. That is where our trouble begins.
Pope Francis calls for a change to ‘Our Father’ prayer
Pope Francis is calling for a new translation of one of the lines from the world’s most famous prayer, the Our Father.
- By Mike Simpson
Pope's beauty secret: Be virtuous like Mary
VATICAN – On Friday’s Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Francis offered his own ‘beauty secret’ – with Mary as model – saying beauty does not come from age or appearance, but from living a virtuous life rooted in scripture.
The Church on the Street: Moment of grace enhances a noisy night
The universality of the Catholic Church is never more evident than in the sacraments and the love for the poor. These foundation stones inform its spiritual life and stand as an eternal witness to the love of Christ.
Don't wait to be perfect to answer vocational call, Pope says
Men and women contemplating a vocation to the priesthood, consecrated life or marriage should not be afraid because God wants only for them to experience the joy that comes from serving others, Pope Francis said.
God's Word on Sunday: God is found in compassionate hearts
1st Sunday of Advent, Dec. 3 (Year B) Isaiah 63:16b-17; 64:1, 3-8; Psalm 80; 1 Corinthians 1:3-9; Mark 13:33-37
It’s all God’s fault! As bizarre as that may seem, that appears to be at the heart of the prayer in the final section of Isaiah. The words reflect the human tendency to blame everyone and everything for difficulties instead of accepting personal responsibility.
It’s all God’s fault! As bizarre as that may seem, that appears to be at the heart of the prayer in the final section of Isaiah. The words reflect the human tendency to blame everyone and everything for difficulties instead of accepting personal responsibility.