bowls of the eucharist | Photo by Grant Whitty on Unsplash

Understanding the Sacrament of the Eucharist

Fr. Don Miller, OFM May 11, 2020

The Church invites us to celebrate the Sacrament of the Eucharist and to receive Holy Communion “often” and “worthily” (CCC 1389).

Father Timothy J. Mockaitis, pastor of Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Salem, Ore., and penitent Ethan K. Alano of Salem demonstrate how a confession is conducted May 3, 2019. The sacrament of reconciliation provides us with opportunities to continue to examine our intentions and conscience, to "come clean" with God so we may move ahead refreshed, abundantly blessed. (CNS photo/Chaz Muth)

Understanding the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Fr. Don Miller, OFM May 11, 2020

Making the Sacrament of Reconciliation a vibrant part of one’s spiritual life—especially if it hasn’t been such in quite a while—basically just requires the decision to begin again.

Understanding the Sacrament of Marriage

Fr. Don Miller, OFM May 11, 2020

Vatican II clarified that marriage is a partnership between a man and a woman ordered toward their mutual good and the procreation and education of children (cf. GS, 48.1).

Little hand in a big hand | Photo by Liane Metzler on Unsplash

We Belong to God

Brother David Steindl-Rast May 11, 2020

Grateful living is a celebration of the universal give-and-take of life, a limitless “yes” to belonging.

Understanding the Sacrament of Holy Orders

Fr. Don Miller, OFM May 11, 2020

If the Lord is truly calling a man or a woman to religious life or priesthood, he or she needs to listen and respond not only for the sake of the Church, but also for his or her own happiness and fulfillment. The Sacrament of Holy Orders celebrates this journey.

birds flying all over the damn place | Photo by Ekaterina Novitskaya

Miracles: Signs of God’s Presence

Daniel J. Harrington, SJ May 11, 2020

Jesus was a healer, not as a practitioner of medical science but rather as a miracle worker. The Gospels are full of reports about his miraculous activities. Indeed, almost one third of Mark’s Gospel is devoted to Jesus’ miracles.

Understanding the Sacrament of Baptism

Fr. Don Miller, OFM May 11, 2020

Having a baby baptized is both an act of faith and a cultural affair. It is both a statement of trust in the goodness of God as well as a family event that can be faith-filled. Baptism is the beginning of a sacred journey.

Understanding the Sacrament of Confirmation

Fr. Don Miller, OFM May 11, 2020

The Sacrament of Confirmation is not a rite of passage, nor a graduation from religion class, nor a ratification of a personal faith choice. Rather, it’s all about what God is doing for his beloved daughters and sons.