Franciscan Spirit

opened bible | Photo by Worshae on Unsplash

Jesus and the Women of the Gospels

One of the most striking aspects of the gospel accounts is the role of Jesus’ life and his ministry. Of course, we are aware of the unique role of Mary, Jesus’ mother, in giving birth to the savior of the world. From the very beginning of our Christian tradition, Mary is the pre-eminent person in Jesus’ life, and she is the supreme example of what a disciple, a true believer, should be. But the gospel is full of others who, though lesser in stature, still played important roles in New Testament accounts.

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symphony at play | Photo by Manuel Nägeli on Unsplash

A Symphony of Priestly Prayer

Theologians make an important distinction between what they call “devotional” and “liturgical” prayer.
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A woman holds a candle as Pope Francis attends a meeting at the Munyonyo shrine in Kampala, Uganda Nov. 27. The pope met with catechists and teachers at Munyonyo, the martyrdom spot of the Uganda Martyrs. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

Let There Be Light: A Christmas Prayer

In turning on the light of the Christmas tree, we wish for the light of Christ to be in us.
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Saint Nicholas of Myra painting

Santa Claus: A Figure of Generosity

Pope Francis reminds us that God’s attitude toward us is far more one of mercy than of judgment.
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Christmas stockings and tree

The True Spirit of Christmas

The celebration of Christmas can be meaningless and maddening, especially if you don’t have access to its deep layers of history and symbolism. You may feel frantic looking for gifts, rather than understanding that gift-giving is a way of being ...
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Solanus Casey’s Beatification Explained

All around the United States, people will celebrate the life of this holy Capuchin friar in November.
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landfill image by Collab Media on Unsplash

Our Disposable Culture

This month is a time for Americans to celebrate both food and family in our land of plenty. But what happens when plenty becomes too much, when surplus turns into waste?
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