A crucifix is a reminder of God’s radical, limitless love. It also confronts us with a daunting challenge as we recall God’s command for us to love as He does. How is this possible for a mere human being crippled by sin? Serafina reflects on all this in her meditation upon Jesus Crucified.
Living in the World
Aliens and the Eucharist—Reclaiming Our Sense of Wonder
Modern man is sunk in boredom and indifference. But what if there are aliens? How would that affect the way we see ourselves, our place in the universe, and God’s unique Presence among us? Would we finally wake up and reclaim our sense of wonder?
Defining the Justice of a Just War
War is a tragic part of the human condition. But there are some wars that are justly fought and others that are not. Here Vir Christi outlines the conditions the Church deems necessary for a war to be just.
What Does Offering Our Work to God Look Like?
On this feast of St. Joseph the Worker, I thought it fitting to share some reflections on an short, potent prayer written by Pope St. Pius X.
In this prayer, St. Pius X mentions the virtues necessary to employ in our work, the specific faults we’re inclined to commit, and the spiritual mindset with which we should approach our work.
Two Forms of Pruning in the Spiritual Life
I’ve been reflecting a lot on this image of pruning from the Gospel. To prune a plant is to cut away excess growth from it to make it more healthy, productive, or attractive.
What does God “pruning” us look like? How does He do it?
The Time is Right: When Death Visits You
February 17, 2023.
My mom and I arrived home from Adoration to earth-shattering news—my dad had died.
In an instant, my family’s world was ripped apart. And yet in the midst of all the heart-breaking bustle that followed, I became gripped by a conviction: The time was right.
Before the Digital Camera: 3 Thoughts on Our Obsession with Picture Taking
Photography undoubtedly is a gift. Yet it also has its limits. What are these limits? What pitfalls should we watch out for? How can we use photography for the glory of God and the good of souls?
How to Sanctify Your Driving
Driving is one of the most common human activities. A lot of us spend a great deal of time behind the wheel. During this time, we confront a number of dangers and temptations as well as opportunities to grow in virtue.
Given all this, it’s worthwhile to consider how we might sanctify this activity.
Beyond Attending Mass—4 Ways to Sanctify All of Sunday
Do you know how to live Sunday as the Lord’s Day?
Attending Mass is only one part—albeit the most important one—of keeping Sunday holy. But the commandment to keep holy the Lord’s Day doesn’t stop there. Rather, we should strive to sanctify the whole day. Here are four ways we do that.
More Than Repaired—Transformed
Have you ever felt broken beyond repair?
Fr. J. shared a story of how he once broke a precious vase. He could have fixed the vase, but to no avail. Even if every piece were glued back into place, you’d still see the multitude of cracks running through the vase.
Sometimes, we resemble that vase and we wonder: Can God fix me and, if so, why doesn’t He?
“Sunday Best”: Why Bother?
“Sunday best.” For many, it’s not what it used to be. Shorts and a t-shirt? Check! We’re all set for Mass.
Or not.
Sunday Mass is special. If there ever were an occasion for dressing up, this is it. But why?
Leisure: More than the Pursuit of Pleasure
June is here. At this point, we’re probably all hankering for a break. But too much leisure time takes a toll. Before we go barreling into summer, let’s reflect on how we can sanctify and refresh ourselves through the pursuit of leisure.
The Importance of Being Present
I’ve been musing on Joseph and how significant his presence is. It seems as if the whole point of Joseph’s life is just to be present to Jesus and Mary. Miracles, words of wisdom, grand gestures? Nope. Just be present wholeheartedly to God and those around you. That’s enough.
How to Practice Charity with Difficult People
Thanksgiving is nearly upon us. Families are planning gatherings all around the country—hopefully, joyful ones. The reality, though, is that many are mentally cladding themselves in iron cloaks and adopting a survivor’s mentality in anticipation of dinner with their family members.
Moving through Life’s Seasons: How to Face Change
It would be nice if I could hit a “Pause” button on life right now. I’m in such a pleasant situation, and have been for many months. Oh sure, I have my struggles, but they seem small compared to past ones. Meantime…