Fifteenth Sunday: Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens

This was the alternate homily that I gave at 10:45 Mass, during which we accepted a young man into the Order of Catechumens.   In the ancient Church, there were several so-called orders within the assembly.  The main group or … Continued

Twentieth Sunday of Ordinary Time

Today’s readings The Church’s Catechism tells us that “Fortitude is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome obstacles in the moral … Continued

The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

Today's readings During World War II, the officers of the Third Reich's secret service forcefully recruited many 12- and 13-year-old boys into the Junior Gestapo. The harshly treated boys were given only inhumane jobs that they were to perform without … Continued

Fourth Sunday of Easter: World Day of Prayer for Vocations

Today’s readings Today’s brief Gospel reading begins with the wonderful line, “My sheep hear my voice.” However, I have two problems with that. First, who wants to be compared to sheep? Sheep are not the brightest of animals, and they … Continued

The 21st Sunday of Ordinary Time: Decide Today whom You will Serve

Today’s readings Canon law requires a retreat before a man is ordained as a deacon or a priest, so about this time last year, I made my diaconate retreat up at Bellarmine Retreat House in Barrington. It was one of … Continued

CNS STORY: Public schools add religion course to curriculum requirements

CNS STORY: Public schools add religion course to curriculum requirements WASHINGTON (CNS) — At a time when public schools are increasingly wary of any mention of religion, one California school district has found that requiring students to study world religions … Continued