Living the readings: The radical Jesus

Christ is not ‘right’ or ‘left’ but is deep in his radicalism The Liturgy of the Word for the month of October pictures Jesus as a radical. That is not in the common political usage of the word. Jesus is not radical “right” or “left.” He is radical “deep.” The …

‘Hope Springs’ eternal when saving a marriage

My position as coordinator of the diocesan Office of Marriage Preparation and Enrichment gives me an opportunity to explore material that could be beneficial to engaged couples as well as to long-term married couples. The material comes from many sources, and some of the best sources are personal suggestions from …

Understanding the sacraments: Instituted by Christ

The mysteries of Christ’s life are the foundations of what he would dispense in the sacraments The Church has always taught that the sacraments were instituted by Christ himself. She is convinced that this truth is rooted in the Word of God and the tradition, as the Catechism affirms: “Adhering …

Funeral services held for Father George Mathis

CINCINNATI (CNS)—Father George Mathis, 84, a native of Euclid, Ohio, and a Glenmary Home Missioner for 61 years, died peacefully Sunday, Aug. 26, in Kingsport, where he resided. Father Mathis was ordained in 1955. He served in a wide range of roles as a Glenmarian, including as pastor of Tennessee, …

Once upon a time: Who was the most influential person in your life?

For many, chances are it was a Sister who was a teacher during the formative school years I am forever amazed to find so many people who do not answer the question, “Who has been the most influential person in your life so far?” with either “Jesus, my Lord,” “the …

Year of Faith, Respect Life Month being observed

WASHINGTON (CNA)—The U.S. bishops’ chairman on pro-life issues invited Catholics to commemorate the Year of Faith and the 41st annual Respect Life Month through prayer, education and advocacy. Respect Life Month, along with the upcoming Year of Faith announced by Pope Benedict XVI, provides a “vitally important” opportunity for Catholics …

Former John XXIII priest passes away

SAN FRANCISCO—Father Peter Gerard Shea, CSP, who formerly served at Blessed John XXIII Parish in Knoxville, died Sept. 23 in San Francisco. A funeral Mass was held Sept. 27 at Old St. Mary’s Cathedral in San Francisco. A funeral Mass also was celebrated Sept. 29 at St. Thomas the Apostle …

Pope Benedict XVI making an impression on seminarians

VATICAN CITY (CNS)—With his personal charisma and energetic pastoral style, Blessed John Paul II famously inspired a generation of vocations to the priesthood—to the point that men whose discernment or formation had been decisively shaped by his 27-year pontificate came to be known as “John Paul II priests.” Now Pope …