CULTURE

THE GIFT OF GOOD FRIENDSHIPS

I’ve never been one to have a HUGE group of friends. Growing up, I think the largest my friend circle ever got was myself...

A HOSPITAL VISIT

My 6 month old was checked into Children’s Hospital. After days of hour by hour progression I had tried everything at my disposal, including...

PAGAN RITUALS IN CHRISTIANITY

There are some pockets of Catholic culture that have an unfortunate view of sacraments, sacramentals, and prayers. They might often search out any prayer,...

THE PLEASURE PROBLEM

We desire pleasure. Our bodies and souls yearn for those brief moments of joy or good feelings that are the result of a physical...

BLESS ME FATHER

I pulled into the parking lot on a crisp fall morning, and started heading into Mass. Two strangers noticed me and gestured to me—I...

CHOOSING KINDNESS MEANS CHOOSING THE HOLY SPIRIT

There is a common movement in the world that is meant to solve a pressing need in our society. You may know this as...

HARRY POTTER & THE FORMED YOUTH

Much has been said in the Christian community about Harry Potter from an analytical standpoint. When first published and gained popularity, many Christian’s called...

CELEBRATING FEAST DAYS

As Catholics, we probably all have some patron saint or saints to whom we are especially devoted. Whether it is the saint you were...

LOVING THE POOR

Perhaps Christianity’s most radical tenant (besides the Creator of the Universe became one of us for the sake of loving us and making us...

ALLHALLOWTIDE: THE AUTUMN TRIDUUM

I used to live a few houses away from what appeared to be a lovely elderly couple. For months out of the year they...

GRASPING AFTER POWER, WEALTH & PLEASURE

A characteristic that has been prevalent throughout human history is human beings grasping after control. We amass money because of its security, we chase...

BOSS-GIRLS, TRAD-WIVES AND THE BEAUTY OF WORK

Just a few weeks ago, we celebrated Labor Day here in the United States. It’s a holiday I never really gave much thought to,...

TIME WELL SPENT

In our culture, there is a large emphasis on efficiency in regards to our time. “Time is Money” is a common phrase that is...

THE THREE BASILICAS

Lourdes, France is home to one of the most miraculous Marian shrines. Its vast complex holds three basilicas. Each one holds significance to St....

THE CHRISTIAN PURSUIT OF BEAUTY

During a recent small group meeting, my friend sheepishly admitted to buying a new swimsuit. “My first in five years!” she justified, then sighed....