Focus on Faith

The solemn blessing for the newly married couple

The liturgical prayers offered during the celebration of the sacrament of marriage reveal the Church’s theology and understanding of the sacrament. The Solemn Blessing offered over the couple before the dismissal is in three parts and imparts a powerful final message.

Unity in the Holy Spirit

“The whole world spoke the same language, using the same words ... Then they said, ‘Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the sky, and so make a name for ourselves; otherwise we shall be scattered all over the earth.

Why do I still feel badly about my sins after I’ve confessed?

Q) I’ve been to confession, and I know that God has forgiven my sins. But I still feel badly about them. What should I do?

Eucharist: The heart of life

Jesus said to his disciples: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” While Jesus had in mind all Ten Commandments, perhaps it is the word, “if” that captures most of my heart and attention.

The liturgical prayers at a wedding

The prayers offered during the celebration of the sacrament of marriage reveal the Church’s theology and understanding of the sacrament. It is wise to read or listen to the words carefully and reflect on the spiritual messages they convey. This column focuses on the opening prayer.

Striving to be a good shepherd

When I was asked to write this column for The Catholic Spirit, I agreed without paying attention to the date for which I was asked to provide a reflection for the Sunday readings. Alas, had I known I was going to be writing for the Fourth Sunday of Easter, also known as Good Shepherd Sunday, I think I may have passed on the invitation, as there are so many other priests far more deserving of writing on the topic of being a shepherd.

Am I a good person?

Q) I am writing because I keep coming back to the same question, “Am I a good person?” I am taking care of my husband who suffers from Alzheimer’s, as well as my parents who need a lot of attention. I can’t always find the time to pray the rosary every day (like St. John Paul II or St. Mother Teresa did), and I just can’t escape the Catholic guilt that I feel all the time.

The wait is over

“What are we waiting for? And what are we going to do about it in the meantime?”

Symbols of the sacrament of marriage

There are many beautiful and meaningful symbols for the sacrament of marriage.

Invited to come out from the tomb

“Jesus cried out in a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come out!'” Come out of the tomb. Come out of the darkness. Come out of the stench. Come out of death. “Lazarus, come out!” 

How do I grieve as a Christian?

Q) Someone I love recently died. I know that we believe in life after death, but I am still struggling. Am I wrong to be sad? Is it OK that I wish they were still here?

God thirsts that we may thirst for him

Have you ever found yourself dissatisfied while dining at a restaurant? Maybe a special entrée just didn’t live up to your curiosity, excitement and expectations. That bowl of Bolognese left you wanting something a little more.
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