A 17-year-old student found himself ‘on a path no one should be forced to walk’ By George Valadie In the interest of full disclosure, I’ve been a whole lot better at keeping my Lenten promise this year. So much better than last year, that’s for sure. Yes, I know, whatever …
Praying for perspective: The shape of things to come
It’s up to us to harness all the technological advances and use them for good—and for God. By George Valadie It’s probably trite to even offer this thought, but do you ever notice anymore how dramatically and rapidly our lives are changing? The whole idea jumped out at me the …
He dwells among us: Triple Crown of Dignity
By Bishop Richard F. Stika “Christian, recognize your dignity…. Never forget that you have been rescued from the power of darkness.” –St. Leo the Great Do you know that, by virtue of your baptism, you participate in a special way in the threefold mission of Christ as Priest, Prophet, and …
Marriage Enrichment: A Valentine’s Day gift that will help build intimacy
Write a letter to your spouse that mentions an instance that makes you feel grateful for him or her By Marian Christiana It is that time of year again when romance is in the air and the thought of love fills our hearts. It is almost Valentine’s Day, and Valentine’s …
Praying for perspective: A heartfelt thanks—from Katy’s dad
A lifetime in Catholic schools ‘has rubbed off on our girls’ By George Valadie We’ve just finished celebrating Catholic Schools Week, us and the rest of the nation. It was a much-needed idea born in the mid-’70s, the same time I stepped into my first classroom as a Catholic school …
He dwells among us: Dignity of the journey
The Church offers beautiful teachings to assist us in making difficult medical decisions By Bishop Richard F. Stika How precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His faithful. –Psalm 116:15 “The person in affliction is sacred.” This ancient proverb speaks to a beautiful truth that the …
Thoughts and Prayers for the Faithful: Flannery O’Connor and the power of God
The drama of life is made tangible by the reality of death by Bob Hunt Flannery O’Connor has long been my favorite author, with her bizarre characters and weird stories that shed light on the brokenness of the human condition and the potential for redemption. The light she shines is …
Praying for perspective: Hoping to remain resolute in 2019
Will convenience help or hurt the wallet, waistline, and way of life? By George Valadie Happy New Year! How’s the new you coming? On my end, I’ve never been much for making a bunch of resolutions. In fairness, I should restate that; I’ve never been good at keeping a bunch …
He dwells among us: Four Herods
The culture of death assaults life, the conscience, the Church, and common good By Bishop Richard F. Stika Within the seasons the Church celebrates in its calendar that mark the mystery of our redemption—from the birth of Christ to His Passion and resurrection, to the beginnings of the infant Church …
Marriage enrichment: Find your own George Bailey in your life
The lives of the writer’s family would be been much different if not for the faith of an older sister By Marian Christiana Advent is a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the coming of Jesus. It is one thing to be prepared to welcome Jesus but quite another …
He dwells among us: Holy exchange of gifts
As God gathers us to Himself in holy sacrifice, what do we bring to Mass? By Bishop Richard F. Stika “That my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.” –Luke 2:19 Trying to find the ideal gift to give a loved one or a friend can …
Praying for perspective: Believing in Christmas
The Christ Child inspires children of all ages to keep the faith; good ol’ St. Nick is another story By George Valadie When did it happen to you? I remember as if it were yesterday. I know the place and the time, who was there and who was not. The …
