There’s a long-held perception that the voice of women in the Church is one that is seldom heard. It’s why Colleen Carroll Campbell sees the importance of galvanizing that voice so that it doesn’t get drowned out.

Softening is a curious thing. We soften water, counteracting metals and minerals that stain and damage our clothing. We soften edges, to prevent slivers and injuries. We soften butter, to stop it from tearing through bread. 

Looking back to 1919 and the place of women in society, the world was a much different place. 

Choosing is in the air. At the beginning of the year, the marketers are competing for our money, and gyms and diet programs are poised to pounce on the good intentions that follow Christmas feasts. 

“A voice was heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children; and she refused to be comforted, because they were no more.” (Matthew 2:18, quoting Jeremiah 31:15)

From the Pope on down, sentiment is growing to more fully integrate women into the everyday life of the male-dominated Church. So far, though, it’s been a lot of talk and too little action. Events at this month’s Synod of Bishops on youth illustrate that point.

The victory of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) in the recent Quebec election reflects the growing acceptance of political parties vowing to tighten immigration policies and numbers. 

“Hi, my name is Gabriela Pariseau and I am an American pro-life Catholic.”

One late-summer evening, I snatched a moment to walk down to the lake. The day’s rain was starting to clear, golden sunshine emerging. The beach was criss-crossed with noise and activity: volleyball players, loudspeakers, food sales, toys, umbrellas. 

VANCOUVER – Hostelling International boasts some interesting locations for their nightly accommodations. World travellers booking with HI can spend a night in a cell at the Carleton County jail in Ottawa, in old army barracks on Jericho Beach, or inside the former Olympic Village in Whistler.

It was 100 years ago, in Lindsay, Ont., when the roots of the Women’s Inter-Church Council were firmly planted. Since then, the ecumenical women’s council has stayed true to its motto: “Rooted in faith, called to action.”

I officially jumped on the audiobook bandwagon about a year ago. 

VANCOUVER – On a continent where some longtime religious communities are suffering a decline in numbers, at least one congregation is truly flourishing.

Growing up in rural Saskatchewan planted a special place in my heart for the wildflowers that grow in the ditches. Blue alfalfa, purple thistles, bright yellow brown-eyed susans. When I moved to the city to study, I saw them less frequently, and I did not realize how much I missed the wildflowers until I spent several weeks at a youth camp this summer, thanks to my husband’s working there and my maternity leave.

Abby Pyrz was 18 years old when she was bitten by the travel bug.