Were the Founders Isolationists? History Says No

Were the Founders Isolationists? History Says No

As nationalism and populist political philosophies gain traction, many Americans are adopting isolationist and noninterventionist positions. An America-first approach calls for focusing on national problems. The isolationist argument is that the burden of international commitments has weighed heavily upon the nation for too long. Let others deal with these problems and intervene. … Read more

Why Are the Crown Jewel Carmelite Convents Failing?

Why Are the Crown Jewel Carmelite Convents Failing?

Among the religious orders dedicated to the contemplative life, the Carmelites have a special role. Carmelite convents are found all over the world. They have given the Church countless saints and models. Many Carmelite convents are now in crisis because they have no vocations. The nuns are dying off. Convent after convent … Read more

Church Architecture Takes a Turn Toward the Sacred

Church Architecture Takes a Turn Toward the Sacred

Over the past decades, modern church architecture, not unlike church music, has been notoriously uninspiring. Airplane hanger-like constructions, fan-shaped congregational seating and bizarre stained glass have dominated worship space in the last sixty years. One author could not help but title his critique “Ugly as Sin.” However, Church architecture is changing. American … Read more

It’s Time to Abandon the Populists’ Godless Crusades

It’s Time to Abandon the Populists’ Godless Crusades

As the liberal world crumbles, alternatives are appearing on the horizon. People are considering populist or nationalist models that will restore America’s sense of community, family and faith. These illiberal options are enjoying some success all over the world, as evidenced by the recent European elections. What alarms the liberals is that … Read more

Why Everyone, Even Atheists, Needs the First Commandment

Why Everyone, Even Atheists, Needs the First Commandment

Most people don’t have a problem with some of the Ten Commandments. There are atheists, for example, who will admit that one should not kill, steal or lie. Thus, posting those specific Commandments in public classrooms or buildings would pose no problem. The problems begin with the First and most important Commandment, … Read more

America’s New Catholic Priests Turn Right

America’s New Catholic Priests Turn Right

Dioceses across the country have long suffered from a vocation crisis. The number of new priests has failed to keep up as older priests retire and die. Many bishops have had to resort to foreign priests to fill the gap. The crisis is far from over. However, something new is happening in … Read more