"Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you."

On the carefully programmed Advent journey to Christmas, December 21, 2014, the Fourth Sunday belongs to Mary. This is so because Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus, necessarily involves the motherhood of Mary. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible Study with family, friends and church groups.

Also on this last Sunday of Advent we begin more intensively to prepare for the celebration of Christmas. There are the many practical things to do: the buying of presents, the shopping for food and all the necessities of a great feast. But we do not forget that this great feast is in honor of the Lord and we take time to prepare ourselves spiritually as well.

God's Promise to David

Sunday’s Scripture texts describe God’s promise to David and its fulfillment in Jesus, the Son of David. From the First Reading, David expresses his sincere desire to build a temple for God but it is actually God who will build his own house and establish a great family of descendents: the House of David. Fr. John J. Ludvik say this meant God would actually become personally present among humankind through David’s descendant, Jesus the Messiah.

The amazing thing about this promise by God is that it does not depend on David's worthiness. David had committed adultery with Bathsheba and then had her husband killed. In the Psalms we hear echoes of David's repentance. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS explains that we ourselves are indeed spiritual descendents of David. And Fr. Phil Bloom says there is also a message here for us: Not to go out and sin, but to know that every day we depend on God's mercy - and his promise.

Hail Mary, Full of Grace

"Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee." For nearly two millennia Catholics, and other Christians, have committed to memory these words of the angel Gabriel as they pore devotedly over the sacred scriptures. The angelic salutation, now incorporated into the prayer of the Hail Mary, is sent up to heaven millions of times each day from every corner of the globe. Father Cusick says our frequent repetition of these words can dull our sense of awe for the fantastic event which they announced: the incarnation of God.

Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B. points out for us the fact that when considered specifically as the mother of our Savior, Mary is also the most perfect model of fruitfulness. Mary models for us a life that is wonderfully fruitful through loving concern for the welfare and happiness of others. And the challenge we face according to Fr. John Foley, S. J. is this: How much do you and I listen to the voice of God’s promise, written in our hearts? Do our words and actions tumble out without reference to that unwavering love deep within?

The Word Became Flesh

Our Readings this Sunday place us at the origin of the human existence of the Word of God. The word became flesh in Mary’s womb. One does not require a massive brainpan to conclude that the awesome entry of God into the body of an itinerant preacher named Jesus of Nazareth was no hit and run accident. It was set from day one. Fr. James Gilhooley explains that for God the long journey was part of the gift to us.

Fr. Ron Rolheiser discusses the virgin birth. He said it should invite imitation rather than admiration. What is at issue, he points out, is not celibacy rather than sex but patience rather than impatience. It is about accepting to live in tension rather than capitulating and compensating in the face of unrequited desire. Paul Dion, STL meanwhile answers a question frequentl;y asked: Was the Blessed Virgin Mary a Virgin Forever?  ...

Meanwhile, Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. explains that The Word came to Mary looking for far more than accommodation. He became flesh of her flesh. That means our flesh, human nature. This means whatever God the Father gave His Only-Begotten Son in human nature, He gave all this to all of us. The Annunciation therefore is not to Mary alone, but to you and me. Each one of us has part of God's plan. We are not merely part of the audience. We are actors in the eternal Christmas pageant. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino reminds us that like Mary, we can make the spiritual physical. No, we can’t give birth to the Savior, but we can make His Presence a reality in the world.

It is a continuing miracle that the whole world pauses to celebrate at Christmas. Far more marvelous is the blessed Christian for whom the lights, festive parties and gift-giving are only signs of the real source of abiding joy: the gift of Jesus, "He who saves his people from their sins." Prepare well for a truly merry, blessed, 'Christ-Mass'.

Preparing for Christmas

We recall this Christmas message from Pope Benedict two years ago when he said Christmas is not a fairy tale for children. It's a message that's equally valid today. Christmas is much more than the season of Santa Claus and sugar plums. It is God's answer to mankind's yearning for peace.

Meanwhile, Msgr. Charles Pope discusses the many paradoxes and seeming impossibilities in the incarnation. He reminds us that as mysteries they cannot be fully solved, so they claim our reverence. As we approach Christmas lists some of the paradoxes of Christmas, saying as little of them as possible, just enough to make the paradox clear. And do you know the twelve days of Christmas? It starts on the evening of Christmas Day and end on the morning of Epiphany (January 6th).

And Dr. Lilles offers a pathway for prayer in Advent. He reminds us that Advent is a time for opening our hearts to the Lord with contrition-filled prayer. It is the most important thing we can do to prepare for the joy of Christmas. He says not to do so is to prefer to live in self-contradiction, a cold dark misery not worthy of human dignity.

Celebrating the Holidays

Jennifer Fulwiler was doing Christmas cards this week when she catches sight of a certain person’s name and address, about half way down the third page of labels. Every time she see it, she winces because it reminds her of just how unsaintly she can sometimes be. This is a story about what hitting reply to an email instead of forward taught her about sin. And if you ever get in the same bind, here's a video that will tell you how to quickly untangle it.

It’s Christmas, so we’re singing carols. But the Blessed Virgin Mary merits only passing mention in a few carols or—even better—no mention at all in most. Michael Linton looks into it for us. Also, "Do You Hear What I Hear?" is one of the most popular Christmas songs today. Do you know the story behind the song? This popular Christmas song's plea for peace is as relevant today as when it was written—during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

As you ponder what presents to give friends and family, Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio's helpful thoughts offer a Catholic approach to holiday gift-giving. Similarly, Fr. Peter deSousa suggests that we share the gift of love with those who are lonely, suffering or in need.

Finally, this time of year, it's not out of this world to hear about generous folks going around and dropping coins in parking meters or picking up a round of drinks for strangers at the bar. But some truly secret Santa has helped out three Michigan Kmart customers by picking up their layaway tabs. Really.

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief

BURNING QUESTION: Was the Blessed Mother a Virgin Forever?
FEATURED BLOG: The New Translation: What's Changed and Why
PASTORAL HISPANA: Maria la Virgen del Adviento


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"The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field"

This Sunday, July 27, 2014, the Gospel's passage contains the last three of the set of seven parables that Matthew placed in the center of his gospel. The first two about the treasure in the field and the pearl of great price tell us about the inestimable value of the Kingdom. The third one about the dragnet tells us about the great diversity of its make up. This Sunday we have three parables set before us. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible Study sessions with family, friends and church groups.

Three aspects of God's kingdom are highlighted in these parables: the necessity of recognizing its ultimate value, the necessity of responding with total commitment upon recognition of its presence, and the possibility of rejecting the gift of eternal life that it brings. Father Cusick explains that this discourse is a continuation of our meditation upon the four "last things": death, judgment, heaven and hell.

The Value of God's Kingdom's

The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field or a pearl of great price. When its great value is recognized, one gladly does all that is necessary to obtain it. The kingdom of heaven is also like a net that collects all sorts of fish. Just as the useless fish are eventually thrown away, at the end of the age the wicked will be rejected. The last parable is a sober reminder that even though Jesus is the presence of divine wisdom, many take offense at him, and because of their lack of faith are lost.

These parables, Orlando Sapuay, M.S. explains, teach us that the kingdom is so desirable and precious that a person must sacrifice everything in order to obtain it. And this most desirable hidden treasure, Fr. Phil Bloom points out, is Jesus Himself. He is the Kingdom of God. Heaven is nothing more - and nothing less - than a relationship with Jesus. And to discern what fits with the Kingdom, Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio says we need to know what that Kingdom is all about.

And perhaps, as Fr. John Foley, S. J. indicates, the deepest wisdom this Sunday can be found in the Second Reading. You or I have undoubtedly quoted the words, not remembering where they came from, “All things work for the good [of] those who love God.”

The Gift of Free Will

Sunday's Readings drive us to the dogmatic theology books. The First Reading from 1 Kings speaks about wisdom. The second from Romans speaks about predestination, the Gospel from Matthew speaks about the Christian life. The invitation is placed before us and it is entirely up to us whether we accept it. We are invited to believe in all that Jesus told us and to embrace the Gospel as our way of life, but Fr. Alex McAllister tells us, the choice rests with us.

However, Fr. Ron Rolheiser clarifies, every choice is a renunciation. Thomas Aquinas said that and it helps explain why we struggle so painfully to make clear choices. We want the right things, but we want other things too. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino tells us that we have to take responsibility for our own actions. Even if something negative happens to us beyond our control, like sickness, we have the ability to use this situation to closer image the Lord. If we choose what is true and good, then we are allowing God's predestination to take its effect among us.

The good news for us, according to Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, O.S.B., is that the Risen Lord is present in our celebration of the Eucharist not only to instruct us about the kingdom of heaven, but also to give us his Spirit. In the Spirit, through faith, we receive sight to recognize the presence of the kingdom in our world, and we receive courage to commit ourselves totally to God's reign with single-minded desire.

Responding with Total Commitment

Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB isolates for us the fact that Jesus started his ministry with the proclamation of the Gospel: "The kingdom of heaven is at hand." But his disciples, then and now, keep on asking: "When is the kingdom coming? How will we recognize it?" And it is this Sunday's parables that describes the different ways people can find the kingdom: by chance; by diligent search and by careful discernment.

No matter which way, two things are needed: first, the wisdom to recognize the surpassing worth of the kingdom when it appears and secondly the boldness to stake all on the kingdom. Here are some helpful hints from Fr. James Gilhooley on how to establish the Kingdom of God around you. "Share everything. Play fair. Don't hit people. Put things back where you found them. Clean up your own mess. Don't take things that aren't yours. Say you are sorry when you hurt somebody."

Sacraments, Catholic Guilt, and Life Issues

Have you ever experienced speaking to someone, to tell them the hope you have in the Lord Jesus, and it seems you are speaking to a brick wall with no signs evident that they're getting it’? When we speak the Word of God to others is it ever really wasted? Sr. Lisa Marie Doty offers her reflections.

Gary Zimak is a Cradle Catholic. Jennifer Fulwiler is a convert who admits that now that she's Catholic, she spends a lot more time feeling guilty than he used to. So it’s been interesting, then, to find that she feels Catholic guilt is one of the best things that’s ever happened to her. Gary, on the other hand, offers the big mistakes he has discovered over his life time. In order to spare you some agony, he presents his list of the five biggest mistakes Catholics make and how to avoid them.

And with Obamacare and its contracepton mandate still in the news today, we bring you back a statement the U.S. bishops issued three years ago during the height of the Obamacare debate. Saying, “Pregnancy is not a disease, and fertility is not a pathological condition to be suppressed by any means technically possible,” they “strongly opposed” a proposal to mandate coverage of surgical sterilization and all FDA-approved birth control in private health insurance plans nationwide.

And here's an interesting Catechetical topic: Why can't young children receive Anointing of the Sick? The answer is simple. Children who do not yet have the use of reason cannot receive Anointing of the Sick – since they have not committed any actual sin (and are, therefore, not spiritually sick), they have no need of the spiritual healing. Reading this article will certainly help you undertand our faith better.

Priesthood & Parishes

It's interestng to read this report about the shifting demographics of the U.S. Catholic Church. "The Changing Face of U.S. Catholic Parishes" also shows that while there are more U.S. Catholics, they are attending Masses at fewer parishes staffed by a rapidly declining corps of priests. That is why this great story from Delaware is so timely. Trading in a badge and gun for the cross, here's the story of a New York cop was ordained a priest for Wilmington.

Want to know the secret to a vibrant parish? New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan searched for the secret behind a parish renowned for its high rate of Sunday Mass attendance; first-rate school; excellent religious education for kids, teenagers, young adults, and adults; remarkably effective stewardship; and successful initiatives of social justice, pro-life efforts, evangelization, and neighborhood presence. It was divinely simple: Eucharistic Adoration.

From Dorm Rooms to Senior Homes

In "Detoxing the Dorm," Kathryn Jean Lopez offers a corrective to the current college campus hookup culture: Single-sex dorms. A 2009 study in The Journal of American College Health found that students in co-ed dorms have more sex and more partners — and are “more than twice as likely as students in gender-specific housing to indicate that they had had 3 or more sexual partners in the last year.”

From dorm rooms to senior retirement homes. And you gotta love this. Residents of a retirement community in Michigan get into the swing of things with a little Michael Buble action. In the middle of a hot hot summer, this is the coolest of cool. Enjoy "Forever young: the world’s first senior citizen lip-dub."

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. A blessed and happy new week to all.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief


BURNING QUESTION: Is Gambling a Sin?
FEATURED BLOG: The secret to a vibrant parish?
PASTORAL HISPANA: El Reino de los Cielos tiene un precio

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“Receive the Holy Spirit."

This Sunday, June 8, 2014, we celebrate Pentecost, the 50th day that signals the start of the universal mission of the Church -- a mission that overcomes human obstacles and has the Spirit as its driving force. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible Study sessions with family, friends and church groups.

"Receive the Holy Spirit."

Pentecost is not just another Sunday. Fr. John Foley, S. J. explains that it is a feast equal to Christmas and Easter themselves. The Feast of Pentecost, originally the Jewish Feast of weeks commemorating the gift of the Law to Moses on Mt. Sinai 50 days after the Exodus, was the day when the Holy Spirit was poured out in the Upper Room upon the apostles and other disciples in the form of tongues of fire and a strong wind, fifty days after Easter Sunday, the day marking the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

In the Gospel we are told that the apostles, imprisoned and bound by fear of the Jews after Jesus' death, have locked themselves into the upper room. Then Jesus came and stood before them. He breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit." And immediately, the apostle's fears vanished. But what changed the disciples from fearful hiding behind locked doors to fearless witnesses in the world? Fr. James Gilhooley says the Holy Spirit is the master of surprises who makes the impossible possible. He is the one who reminds us that it does not require great people to do great things - just unselfish ones.

So who exactly is the Holy Spirit? The Holy Spirit is the animating principle of the Christian life, the Soul of the Christian soul, explains Dr. Anthony Lilles. Despite this knowledge, many people today still want to know where the Church “came up with” the Holy Spirit. Mark Shea attempts to answer the question for them.

Fr. Phil Bloom explains that the Holy Spirit - Jesus' first gift - is His greatest gift to us. And this is because this gift contains God Himself, the Third Person of the Holy Trinity. But the Holy Spirit is not just a person inside the Trinity, hopelessly abstract and beyond our conception, Fr. Ron Rolheiser reminds us. He points out that Scripture tells us that the Holy Spirit is also very concrete, conceivable, and tangible inside of charity, joy, peace, patience, goodness, longsuffering, fidelity, gentleness, and chastity.

Pentecost Marks the Birth of the Church

Pentecost is considered to be the birth of the Church. The Holy Spirit was poured out into the apostles on Pentecost. The First Reading from tells the story of how - upon receiving the Holy Spirit - the apostles began to speak in different tongues and proclaimed the Good News of Jesus death and resurrection to people of all nationalities in Jerusalem.

Today's Church also speaks in the tongues of all men and women of every race, culture, and nationality. She speaks with a common language because she utters God's only and unitary Word. Fr. Charles Irvin explains that of all the diversities in humanity, the Church makes one inter-dependent unity. All of us together are formed by the Holy Spirit in the one Body of Christ. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino advises us that in our own parishes today, we have to get away from the thought that someone or some group is rather an exception than a norm in the Church. As Catholics we don't just put up with each other's differences, we value each other's differences as a unique manifestation of the Holy Spirit without which our faith body would be incomplete.

Pentecost invites us once again to walk with the Church, breathe with the Church, hope with the Church, feel with the Church. Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. says Easter therefore is not just coming to a wonderful, inspiring worship service. It is about being sent back into the hostile world, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to bear witness to the identity of God as revealed in Jesus. Just as Jesus was sent by the Father, so also he sends the community.

Therefore, Fr. Alex McAllister SDS points out, for Christians everyday is a Pentecost Day.

"Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them"

In the Gospel Jesus says, "Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” The power of the Spirit not only authorizes, but also empowers the apostles to forgive and to retain sins. Father Cusick explains further that the Apostles Creed links "the forgiveness of sins" with its profession of faith in the Holy Spirit, for the risen Christ entrusted to the apostles the power to forgive sins when he gave them the Holy Spirit. With this act, Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB adds, Jesus formally sends out to the world His apostles, just as He had been sent to the world by the Father.

But many today ask aloud  why go to a priest to confess our sins? Could God also forgive outside of the rituals of the Catholic Church? Of course. Fr. Robert Barron explains that God is held bound by nothing. But the stubbornly incarnational God, Catholics believe, has desired to convey his forgiveness through the body of the church. As the priest administers the sacraments, the priest is operating, not in his own person, but in persona Christi (in the person of Christ). His voice, his gesture, and his embodied presence are a sacramental representation, a bodying forth, of Christ’s embodied presence.

And to this discussion we add this wonderful resource for all: 20 Tips For Making A Good Confession.

Gifts and Charisms of the Holy Spirit

If you ask Catholics and Pentecostals about the number of gifts of the Holy Spirit, and what those gifts are, you'll likely get two different answers. Pentecostals, and some other Protestants, believe that there are nine spiritual gifts. In contrast, Catholics believe that there are seven spiritual gifts and we receive them all in the Sacrament of Confirmation.

These are powerful gifts, freely given to all. So what if you, just like Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio, did not quite “get it” when you were confirmed? I’ve got good news for you. You actually did get the Spirit and his gifts. Thus, Deacon Greg Kandra explains, we need to know that what we are undertaking in the Sacrament of Confirmation, is not just a thing of joy, but something more vast and more intimidating than anything we've ever encountered. To be in church, to receive the sacraments, is to stand before the presence of God. The good deacon tells us that we need to be awestruck. While Pope Benedict said the Holy Spirit will make us "fearless witnesses of Christ."

Pentecost Novena, Prayer, & Being Catholic

The Pentecost novena in honor of the Holy Spirit is the oldest of all novenas. It is still the only novena officially prescribed by the Church. This novena is supposed to begin last bweek on the day after the Solemnity of the Ascension. To those who did not participate in the novena, it's never too late to start it today.

And are you familiar with Theology on Tap? It started with an idea in 1981 that parishes should do something to make young adult Catholics feel more welcome and more connected to their faith. Now, over 30 years later, the program has blossomed, reaching into parishes and dioceses across the United States and some countries overseas. Plus Fr. Anthony Lusvardi, SJ notes that there are still plenty of things to love about being Catholic. Here's his not very scientific list of the small pleasures of our ever-new, ever-ancient faith. Its his Top 10 Small Pleasures of being Catholic.

Judith Costello shares a blog post she composed after sitting in the bleachers watching her son’s basketball practice. During the game, a man started ranting about how Catholic don't care about the poor. She penned a response to the man's assertion that all the poverty in the world would end if the Church would only sell all their artwork and statues and gold and give it to help the poor.

Graduation 2014, Spelling Bee & More

High schools and colleges all over the US are celebrating graduations this week. Rev. James V. Schall, S.J. asks what college graduates actually learn before they graduate? Depending on the student and the faculty, the answer ranges from “not much” to “an amazing amount.” While a commencement speaker at one high school graduation ceremony opened the eyes and minds of his young audience by talking about the true and hidden lessons we learned in high school.

Meantime, Marc Hack reflects on how today is a perfect day to make lasting memories – the kind you may someday share with your grandchildren. He offers his list of "20 Ways To Make Today Unforgettable."

And we bring you back a story from the 2011 Scripps Spelling Bee contest that concluded last week, we share with you the "Last 10 Words of the 2011 Spelling Bee." Cymotrichous, Periscii, Sorites. They're just some of the tounge-twisting, strange words the finalists actually faced. If those were a piece of cake for you, maybe you’re ready to see if you could actually make the cut. Check out the rest of the list and give it a shot.

Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief


BURNING QUESTION: Do you Confess before you receive Communion?
FEATURED BLOG: Smacking You into Sainthood
PASTORAL HISPANA: Pentecostes es la fiesta del nacimiento de la Iglesia

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"He will give you another Advocate to be with you always"

This Sunday, May 25, 2014, is the last Sunday of Easter. We are being prepared for the Ascension of Jesus, which comes next week. He has risen from death and now he is ready to be human in another way, that is, to go to up to heaven, as we hope we will too. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible Study sessions with family, friends and church groups.

This week, the Readings move us forward in our consideration of the Easter Mystery. We move from the contemplation of Christ's appearances after the resurrection over the last few Sundays to a meditation on the continued presence of Christ in the Church through the Holy Spirit.

A Comforting Promise

Christ Jesus had to return to heaven so that our salvation might be complete. Fr. Orlando Sapuay, M.S. tells us that Our Lord did this not to complicate things, but to comfort us. In fact, in our text we find that Jesus gives a comforting promise. He promises to care for us, and He promises to be with us always. He said "If you love me you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father and he will give you another Advocate to be with you forever" (John 14:15). Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB  says Jesus identifies the new Advocate as the Spirit of truth, unknown to the world but an abiding presence within the disciples. This then is the foundation of our trust in the guidance of the Spirit.

Fr. Phil Bloom explains to us why we do not fear the dark. We experience life as a mysterious adventure. And we are convinced that - because of Jesus - the adventure will not end with death. That is the reason for our hope. And that is what college student Stephen Chanderbhan is sharing with us when he offers his personal testimony to the message Jesus speaks: God is with us always. God never leaves those who love Him, and will even surprise us if we are open to it!

Jesus does not leave us at all. God has given us His Spirit, but His Spirit does not dominate our lives. Fr. Alex McAllister SDS explains how the Holy Spirit is there in a very gentle way prompting our actions, keeping us faithful, helping us to hang on in there even though God seems so far away. God does this so that we can grow in love, so that it can be stretched to its limits.

The Holy Spirit - The Paraclete

Here's a common thinking among Christians. God the Father–we can get a glimpse of His tenderness and strength, thanks to Michelangelo’s magnificent Sistine ceiling. And baby Jesus in the manger, the savior hanging on the Cross–these are images we can easily visualize. But Holy Spirit, Holy Ghost? Somehow, we can’t feel quite the same way about a dove as we do about a child on its mother’s lap. And then what does this “Spirit” do? The Father creates, the Son saves, but the Spirit?

Fr. James Gilhooley uses Daniel Durkin to summarize the Parakletos in these lyrical words: Eternally the Holy Spirit is love between the Father and the Son but historically the Holy Spirit is love between God and the world. Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio adds that the Holy Spirit is the real thing. He does not just come and go. He is with us always. We must grow into it, this Spirit within us. Or better, we must allow it to grow within us. Fr. John Foley, S. J. reminds us that we must learn to allow Jesus’ real presence to come into us at communion, for instance, and to love and forgive in daily life. We need Jesus to remain actually present in this world, and therefore we need the Holy Spirit.

Real love comes only from God

Everybody needs love. And, Father Cusick points out, 100% genuine real love comes only from God. The commandments protect us from falling for the counterfeits, the shams and the lies that often pass for love in our world. To love Jesus means to trust him.

Fr. Demetrius R. Dumm, O.S.B. says that means that we trust his radical teaching about an ideal of unselfish loving. The most important consequence of this presence of Jesus in our lives is the profound conviction, given to us by the Spirit, that we are embraced by the heavenly Father's love, just as Jesus was embraced by that love. And that is why we Christians are truly eternal optimists. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino talks about how we may be dying of cancer, we may be in difficult family situations, strained relationships, financially hurting, what have you, but no matter what the situation, we know that if we are true to Christ, He will always be the source of our joy.

However, Fr. Ron Rolheiser cautions us that right truth and right morals don’t necessarily make us disciples of Jesus. What makes us genuine disciples of Jesus is living inside His Spirit, the Holy Spirit, and this is not something abstract and vague. St. Paul tells us that we can live according to either the spirit of the flesh or the Holy Spirit. We live for the Lord. We die for the Lord. That is authentic Christian life.


Conversion, Vocations & More

With ordination season now in full swing, some great vocation stories are emerging. And this one, shared by Deacon Greg Kandra, is just one of them. Inside the burning Twin Towers on 9/11, Paul Carris took an injured stranger's hand - Judith Toppin's - and promised to lead her to safety down 71 flights of stairs. They were among the last to escape. Almost 10 years later, Carris says, he tapped into the trauma of that lifesaving experience to “save my own life” — and became a Roman Catholic deacon.

And here's an "Open Letter" from an evangelical pastor to all his fellow Protestant brothers and sisters. His brother is a Roman Catholic seminarian whom he visited him during the latter's acolyte installation ceremonies before hopefully being ordained a priest. After immersing himself into the spiritual environment of the seminarians, the pastor offered this observation: "Men, what a blessing you were to me! I have news for you. Heaven will be just like this! If these men are any indication of the kinds of people who will emerge as the priests and leaders of the Catholic Church in this new century, there are great days ahead for them, and more and more people are going to experience the Gospel in real, tangible ways." Amen.

Eight years ago this week, Taylor Marshall exchanged his Anglican clerical collar for a layman's necktie. He said it was the best decision that he has ever made. He, his wife and their children were received into the one, holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. It's been a blessing to be a Catholic. His only regret is that they did not become Catholic earlier. Taylor's story is a validation for Michael Coren who was getting challenged by his non-Catholic friends when he titled his new book: Why Catholics Are Right. To the mass of uninformed critics, he says he is often driven to say, "Think and agree, think and disagree, think whatever you like. But in the name of God and the Church He left us, please think!"

This challenge applies to us practicing Catholics as well. Judith Costello uses First Communion as her drawing board. She notes how our young first communicants are so excited on their special day as they feel the glow of love for Jesus. However, the sad reality is that some of the young people who receive the Eucharist for the first time, won’t receive Jesus again for a long time. Too many families see First Communion as the beginning and the end of their obligation for faith formation.

High School Graduations & Looking to College

"Don't believe your report Cards!" Talking about the true and hidden lessons we learned in High School, Dr. Antonio Miguel Dans delivered this message in 2001 to the graduating high school class of the top Jesuit school in the Philippines.  We share this with you because it's a wonderful reflection on the hidden lessons that we all walk away with from high school.

And here's a supposedly true story that happened at the University of Maryland.  We have no way of verifying it's authenticity. But it was simply too good and too inspiring not to pass on. It's about a graduating class who could not pray during the commencements----not by choice, but because of a recent court ruling prohibiting it. The last of the speakers at the ceremonies, a solitary student walked proudly to the microphone. He stood still and silent for just a moment, and then, it happened. All 92 students, every single one of them, suddenly sneezed!  The student on stage simply looked at the audience and said, "God bless you, each and every one of you!"

And to all our high school seniors, here's our Freshman Send Off. This fall over 1.5 million students of you will start your freshman year of college. Some of you will hit the ground running and never look back. For others their freshman year, especially the first few months, will be more of a challenge. Thirty percent of you will actually drop out during their first year. If you’re one of that 1.5 million and don’t want to be part of the 30%, check out our Freshman Survival Guide. It's the "17 Things College Freshman Should Know Before Classes Start."


Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief


BURNING QUESTION: What does the Holy Spirit do in your life?
FEATURED BLOG: Why Catholics Are Right
PASTORAL HISPANA: Por nuestros frutos seremos conocidos

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"I am the way and the truth and the life."

In the Gospel for this Fifth Sunday in Easter, Jesus invites us to let go and trust in Him. He declares that He alone is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Our Discussion Questions will guide your Sunday Bible Study sessions with family, friends and church groups.

This Sunday's Gospel text is taken from St. John's account of the Last Supper. That the Church gives us this Last Supper discourse of Jesus for an Easter Season Eucharist is illuminative. These words are spoken to us now by the Risen Lord, truly alive and present in our midst. In this gospel we find things that Jesus taught before his death beautifully combined with John's inspired interpretation of these teachings, written in full confidence of guidance by the Spirit of Jesus (Jn 16:13).

Jesus is the Way and the Truth and the Life

The life implication of this gospel is profound because it touches upon the fear of death, that pervasive fear which can take the life out of life. Fr. Campion P. Gavaler, O.S.B. tells us that to hear the words of Jesus "Do not let your hearts be troubled" is the liberating good news that we can live and work in a fragile and violent world and not be overcome.

Fr. Phil Bloom reminds us that Jesus is inviting us to let go and trust in Him. In this Sunday's Gospel He tells his disciples that He is “the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, then you will also know my Father."

God is in Jesus and Jesus is in the world and He sends His Spirit to show us the Way, Fr. John Foley, S. J. explains. God’s love has been incarnated. It can never leave us. And so when Jesus reminds the apostles, "You have faith in God; have faith also in me," He is also telling us to trust the Holy Spirit to do in us what we cannot do ourselves. And that, Fr. Orlando Sapuay, MS points out, is what "Living in the Holy Spirit" is all about.

Living Cornerstones of the Church

The second reading from the First Letter of Peter contains some of the most reassuring verses in Scripture. Fr. Joseph Pellegrino says in this reading, we are called living cornerstones of the Church, we are the royal priesthood, the people whom God has chosen to bring light to all who live in darkness. We are the Church.

But are there not many paths to God, many truths? Dr. Marcellino D'Ambrosio reminds us how many times we've heard people say that there are different paths up the same mountain, but they all lead to the peak? It’s politically correct. Tolerant. Reasonable. But it’s wrong. Jesus would not have supported the smorgasbord Gospel, pick-and-choose Catholicism which is popular among us today. Fr. James Gilhooley notes that if you're a cafeteria Catholic, you've just started your own religion. The Church is not simply one choice among others, Father Cusick highlights for us. It is not a way to Christ, but the way to Christ.

Fr. Ron Rolheiser, however, offers a few words of wisdom for our discipleship. In our spiritual journey, there is an important time to be conservative, just as there is an important time to be liberal. We are not meant to pick one of these over the other.

Birth of the Deaconate

In the first reading this Sunday from the Acts of the Apostles, we learn that a clear perception of the diversity of offices and duties in the first apostolic community arose very quickly. The essential function of the Twelve is the "service of the word," including development of the kerygma by formulation of the teachings of Jesus.

In Verse 2 we read: "It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table." At the Apostles' invitation the disciples chose seven men led by St. Stephen. Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB explains that our tradition sees in this group the origins of the future ministry of "deacons." The Deaconate has thrived through the ages. And today we Catholics in the USA are see a surge in its membership numbers.

Rapture, True Orthodoxy and the Eucharist

Over the years, some evangelical Christian denominations who believe the world will end have predicted its end date. If you remember the last famous predicted date was three years ago on May 21, 2011. Fans of the "Left behind" movie series have come to know this event as the Rapture. But what exactly is the Catholic teaching on the Rapture? There is none, explains Michael D. Guinan, O.F.M., Ph.D., a professor at the Franciscan School of Theology in Berkeley, California. He clarifies in detail that there is no traditional Christian teaching on the Rapture. A concept developed in the late 1800s, he says it is a late, and rather suspect, arrival on the scene.

In the book "Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist," Brant Pitre does a fantastic job of showing how various things from the Old Testament point to Christ. Joe Heschmeyer went on a similar journey and wrote this piece that shows five different ways the Eucharist is prefigured in the Old Testament, and what each of those things shows us about the Eucharist.

Fr. Ron Rolheiser, one of our featured weekly Sunday homilists,. is president of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, Texas. In an article he penned a few years back for San Francisco’s archdiocesan newspaper, he answered the question “What makes for a healthy, balanced, orthodox faith?” He said, “Purity of dogma alone doesn't make us disciples of Jesus." Check out his sharp narrative on true orthodoxy.

Marriage & the Sanctity of Life

Msgr. Charles Pope talks about one of the more beautiful passages in the Old Testament: the 12th Chapter of Ecclesiastes. It is a melancholy but soulful meditation on old age. He presents it here in totality and presents his own commentaries.

New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan explains Marriage is the core of every civilization. He clarified again the definition of marriage that is hardwired into our human reason. It it is a lifelong union of love and fidelity leading to children, between one man and one woman. History, Natural Law, the Bible, the religions of the world, human experience, and just plain gumption tell us this is so.

And speaking of marriages, the Census Bureau reports an encouraging trend. Americans may be postponing marriage, and fewer are wedding at all. But what about the people who do get married? They’re staying together longer than they have in years. Statistics show that the number of long-lasting marriages in U.S. has risen in recent years. We'll take every bit of good news, no matter how small.

We can't help but share this wonderful wedding proposal with you. THIS is a marriage proposal that gets 4 stars in our book. It's one of the best we've ever seen. But we will let the video speak for itself. Enjoy.

Mary and the Month of May

As we celebrate this month of May, walking in a particular way with Mary, the Mother of God, Sr. Lisa Marie Doty lists 10 of the most popular pious Marian practices of the faithful as recommended by the Magisterium.

She also talked about how she learned to pray from the examples set by the Blessed Virgin Mary, through our blessed Mother's disposition towards the things of God especially through her example as a woman of deep prayer.



Another eventful week in our Catholic World. Have a great and blessed new week.

Keep the Faith. Peace.

Wally Arida
Publisher & Editor in chief

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