Catholic Perspective

How Material Things Can Lead Us to God

by
How Material Things Can Lead Us to God

A lady recently wrote me with a question about the role of material things in life. She was confounded by apparent contradictions between living a pious life while enjoying material things that are all around us. She had read the stories of the saints and how they often scorned material things. Since … Read more

The Church at a Crossroads: Judas or Peter?

by
The Church at a Crossroads: Judas or Peter?

As we enter another Holy Week, it is fitting to reflect on how far short we fall from holiness. This holiest week of the year actually offers us examples in the lives of the Apostles. Jesus Christ chose twelve to be His original followers. How many followed Him to the Cross? Only … Read more

Finding Happiness in the Lost Virtue of Duty

by
Finding Happiness in the Lost Virtue of Duty 2

In the twenty-first century, the virtue of duty is paradoxically both greatly admired and shamefully despised. On the one hand, certain forms of duty, such as military service, are still widely appreciated. A common sight in airports, malls, and other public places is that of perfect strangers approaching soldiers in uniform and … Read more

A Lenten Meditation on an Unconventional Ash Wednesday

by
A Lenten Meditation on an Unconventional Ash Wednesday 1

As I went to the local supermarket this Ash Wednesday, I was surprised by a table outside on the sidewalk with two men in clerical collars. The sign said it all: “Ashes to Go.” They were administering ashes to shoppers. I had already received my ashes from the priest at church, but … Read more

The Heroic Virtues of Jacinta and Francisco

by
The Heroic Virtues of Jacinta and Francisco 1

Francisco and Jacinta Marto are the youngest non-martyred children ever to be beatified. They were raised to the honor of the altars not simply because they saw Our Lady but also because they generously heeded her call to prayer, penance, and reparation. They are, thus, the first fruits of the Message of … Read more

On a Pilgrimage of Desolation and Growth at Lourdes

by
On a Pilgrimage of Desolation and Growth at Lourdes 1

Upon arriving in Lourdes on pilgrimage on a cold, rainy winter day, I was feeling very much the pilgrim. I was cold, tired, and wet. The long trip had been exhausting and the walk in the drizzling rain from the train station to the hotel had drained me of energy. As I … Read more

Why Do People Do Such Barbarous Things?

by
Why Do People Do Such Barbarous Things?

Hardly a day passes when some barbarous act does not jump to the headlines. Barbarous—there is no other word to describe these vile deeds. Thus, whether it be the sadistic torturing, terrorist beheadings, mass shootings or truck ramming murder sprees (not to mention genocide and war), these acts are becoming ever more … Read more