Send your guardian angel to Mass with this prayer

Send your guardian angel to Mass with this prayerKOSLOSKI: Our daily life, whether we realize it or not, is surrounded by the protecting presence of angels. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms, “From its beginning until death, human life is surrounded by their watchful care and intercession. ‘Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd leading him to life.’ Already here on earth the Christian life shares by faith in the blessed company of angels and men united in God.” Angels are here to help us and above all, guide us to eternal life.

Abortion rarely topic of preaching, says new Pew study

Abortion rarely topic of preaching, says new Pew studyWHITE: While abortion remains one of the most divisive issues in American public life, particularly among people of faith, a new study suggests that it is rarely discussed from the pulpit.

Findings from the Pew Research Center released on April 29 found that only four percent of sermons posted online during the spring of 2019 discussed abortion. Further, the study revealed that when pastors do discuss it, the topic is rarely repeated and Church leaders are almost unanimous in their opposition to it.

What an Uber Eats driver said after delivering food to a Virginia rectory: “Are you a Catholic priest? Can I go to confession before you eat?”

"Are You a Priest?": Uber Eats Driver Ends Delivery in Confession, Priest Reveals in Viral Tweet |: Fr. Dan Beeman of the Diocese of Richmond, Virginia, revealed an amazing confession story on Twitter.

The pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Newport News, Va. said he ordered Chinese food from Uber Eats, only to end the drop-off with sacramental confession.

As of this writing, the tweet generated 1,000 likes and almost 11,000 retweets.

3 lessons the quarantine has taught us about the Church

The Quarantine’s Three Lessons About the Church | Word on FireBARRON: One silver lining for me during this weird coronavirus shutdown has been the opportunity to return to some writing projects that I had left on the back-burner. One of these is a book on the Nicene Creed, which I had commenced many months ago and on which I was making only very slow progress, given my various pastoral and administrative responsibilities...

St. Augustine’s restless heart, and our own

Augustine's restless heart, and our own | Angelus NewsKACZOR: In his latest book “On the Road with St. Augustine: A Real-World Spirituality for Restless Hearts,” James K.A. Smith offers a multifaceted reflection that intertwines his own life and the life of the African bishop from Hippo to illuminate the human experience. This book is “a journey with Augustine as a journey into oneself. It’s a travelogue of the heart...

SNAP, we find it interesting that you call The Weekly World News “the paper”...

VICTIMS’ GROUP SETS GULLIBILITY RECORD – Catholic League: Catholic League president Bill Donohue comments on how easy it is to fool Catholic bashers:

If there were a gullibility record, it was broken on April 27 by the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP). This Church-hating band of professional victims’ advocates—which the Catholic League played a key role in effectively destroying (it limbers on but few pay it any heed)—proved how easy it is to seduce when it bought, hook, line and sinker, a parody about Cardinal Timothy Dolan floated by Michael Sean Winters at the National Catholic Reporter.

Camera drone disguised as hummingbird ventures into a breathtaking monarch butterfly swarm

New Advent: Camera drone disguised as hummingbird ventures into a breathtaking monarch butterfly swarm: Few filmmakers have been able to capture the spectacle this closely...

Finally, an image of hope from Italy

Finally, an image of hope from Italy: Giorgio Gori, the mayor of Bergamo, Italy, on Saturday, April 18, published on Twitter an image accompanied by a comment that is very brief and simple, but sufficiently moving and powerful for it to stand out on hundreds of news sites around the world:

The glory of Christianity is the revelation that we’re not in control — God is

The View from Nazareth - Crisis MagazineMICHAELWARRENDAVIS: This passage from Ecclesiastes—about there being a time to be born and a time to die, a time to cast away stones and a time to gather them together, and vanity, and dust—well, it’s pretty grim stuff if you take it in the wrong light. But hold it up to better light and it’s oddly comforting. This life is short, but the next life is everlasting. If we invest our time on earth wisely, however little time we might have, then we have nothing to fear. (Matt. 25:14–30)

The “historic” Amazonian Synod, revisited

The “historic” Amazonian Synod, revisited - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: Given that he was one of the principal planners and prominent leaders of last October’s special Synod on Amazonia, Cardinal Claudio Hummes, OFM, is understandably enthusiastic about the results of that exercise. Indeed, the enthusiasm of the emeritus archbishop of São Paulo and prefect emeritus of the Vatican’s Congregation for the Clergy seems virtually boundless: Cardinal Hummes recently claimed that “The Synod for the Amazon was historic; no previous synod was as synodal and reform-oriented as this one.” High praise indeed.

How dare you, Mayor De Blasio

How Dare You, Mayor De Blasio | National ReviewLOPEZ: I understand that the anxiety level remains high. And I understand that maybe it’s getting even higher as people who will be held responsible — at least as far as public opinion goes — wonder what will happen when people start to move around again. I also understand that in New York, where Hassidic communities are, there tend to be big gatherings of people...

Chinese Communists resume cross removals as coronavirus subsides

China resumes cross removals as virus subsides - UCA News: The communist administration in China has started another wave of cross removals as the coronavirus pandemic reportedly subsides on the mainland.
In the past two weeks, authorities have removed crosses from the top of two church buildings, sources told UCA News on April 27. They fear more such actions.
The removals began as the administration reported the discharge of the last Covid-19 patient in Wuhan, the central Chinese city where the coronavirus was first reported last December.

Sainthood cause for Dorothy Day picking up steam in U.S.

Sainthood cause for Dorothy Day picking up steam in U.S.PATTISON: The sainthood cause for Dorothy Day, co-founder of the Catholic Worker movement, believes it could have all of the documentation prepared at some point next year to send to the Vatican Congregation for Saints’ Causes.

It would represent the culmination of an effort begun informally in 1997, but in earnest in 2002. After that, the process is largely in the Vatican’s hands - but also in God’s.

The Book of Revelation’s mystery of the “seven thunders” reminds us that there are some things that are not for us to know

A Call to Humility in the Mystery of the Seven Thunders - Community in MissionPOPE: In the “information age,” we speak of knowledge as power. We seek to know in order to control, rather than to repent and conform to the truth. We think that we should be able to do anything that we know how to do. Even more reason, then, that God should withhold from us the knowledge of many things; we’ve confused knowledge with wisdom and have used our knowledge as an excuse to abuse power...

The Christian Commentary of the Ferengi Fathers

The Christian Commentary of the Ferengi Fathers | Parishable ItemsFELTES: Though thoroughly pagan, Ferengi culture is very rich. While the love of money and of what tickles the ears leads to many sins and errors, the brilliance of hidden treasure may still be glimpsed shining forth through dirt. Like St. Justin Martyr wrote, God has planted “seeds of truth”, seeds of the Logos, within all pre-Christian peoples in preparation for the fullness of the Gospel.

8 things to know and share about St. Catherine of Siena

8 Things to Know and Share About St. Catherine of SienaAKIN: April 29 is the memorial of St. Catherine of Siena. She is a saint, a mystic and a doctor of the Church, as well as a patroness of Italy and of Europe. Who was she, and why is her life so significant? Here are 8 things to know and share. In 2010, Pope Benedict gave an audience in which he discussed the basic facts of her life...

Fra’ Giacomo Dalla Torre, Grand Master of the Knights of Malta, dies at 75

Grand Magistry Announces Death of H.M.E.H. Grand Master Fra’ Giacomo Dalla Torre del Tempio di Sanguinetto - Order of Malta: The Grand Master of the Order of Malta Fra’ Giacomo Dalla Torre died early Wednesday at the age of 75. Dalla Torre had been in treatment for throat cancer in Rome in recent months. He is remembered by the Order of Malta for his kindness, appreciation of the arts, and charity towards the poor and disabled.

AG William Barr tells prosecutors to keep watch for coronavirus orders that violate Constitution

Barr tells prosecutors to look for coronavirus orders that violate Constitution: Attorney General William Barr issued a memo to federal prosecutors to be “on the lookout” for state and local directives imposed during the coronavirus pandemic that violate Americans’ constitutional rights.

“If a state or local ordinance crosses the line from an appropriate exercise of authority to stop the spread of COVID-19 into an overbearing infringement of constitutional and statutory protections, the Department of Justice may have an obligation to address that overreach in federal court,” Barr wrote in the two-page memo released Monday.

As a high school teacher, I’ve learned something from this long experiment: Online education is not fully Catholic education

Online Education Is Not Fully Catholic Education - Homiletic & Pastoral ReviewGRAHAM: I am a Catholic high school teacher, and, by May 1st, I will have taught five weeks of online education. This is an act of obedience to various authorities so that, instead of having nothing available for my quarantined high school students, they will have something. I have already explored “group chat,” “shared screen,” and “simultaneous writing documents”; I have successfully communicated to various teenagers some key facts about calculus, Virgil, and economic theory. But I have not — and cannot — fully offer them Catholic education.

Pastoral Letter on the Ethical Development of COVID-19 Vaccine

Pastoral Letter from Bishop Joseph E. Strickland On the Ethical Development of COVID-19 Vaccine | St. Philip InstituteSTRICKLAND: As your Shepherd, I spiritually journey with you through the Easter season toward the glorious celebration of Pentecost and pray that we all continue to cling, tenaciously, to our Easter faith. Let us exclaim, “He is Risen, Alleluia!” The Light and Joy of Easter is especially poignant during this burdensome and challenging time as we all do our best to sift through and address...

7 wise tips from St. Gianna Molla (whose feast day is today), for life under lockdown and beyond

7 Wise Tips From St. Gianna Molla, for Life at Home and AlwaysAMYSMITH: St. Gianna is one of my favorite saints. She reminds me to seek God in all things — to trust him and to live well — striving to make holy each moment.

If she were alive today, I could see us chatting over a cup of coffee about cute clothes, decorating ideas, discernment and the simple joys of life.

Saints, after all, are our friends, and I celebrate her feast day by talking with her about what’s on my heart over morning coffee.

It’s time to treat the Church’s essential services as essential

It’s Time to Treat the Church’s Essential Services as EssentialLANDRY: In different parts of the United States and other parts of the world, we are reaching what many are calling “Phase 2” in the response to the coronavirus pandemic. Various restrictions are being gradually rescinded, some businesses reopened, supplementary emergency hospitals closed, panic and fear lessened and normal parts of life restored.

Coronavirus pandemic delays beatification of Stefan Cardinal Wyszyński, John Paul II’s ‘unforgettable primate’

Coronavirus pandemic delays beatification of Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski: The beatification of Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, the former Primate of Poland who heroically resisted Communism, has been postponed because of the coronavirus.

Cardinal Kazimierz Nycz said April 28 that the beatification would no longer take place as planned in Warsaw’s Piłsudski Square on June 7.

"A pandemic threatening the health and life of people makes it impossible to prepare and carry out this ceremony," the archbishop of Warsaw said. "The first priority must be concern for human safety."

With the Pope’s call for “obedience” on Mass restrictions, embattled Italian PM Giuseppe Conte got a badly-needed favor

Pope’s call for ‘obedience’ on Mass restrictions both pastoral and politicalALLEN: Since Pope Francis began livestreaming his daily Mass from the Vatican’s Santa Marta residence, many people around the world have been grateful for the opportunity to hear the pope’s words and to participate, albeit virtually, in his liturgy, helping to break the isolation of the coronavirus quarantine.

Tuesday morning, however, probably no one was more grateful than Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.

Let’s never go back to “normal”

Let's Never Go Back to 'Normal' - Crisis MagazineTHERRIEN: We’re all hoping that life will return to “normal” in a few weeks, at least to some extent. We’re also hearing (often from the same source) that life will never be the same because of COVID-19. Obviously, we all want certain things to return to normal as soon as possible. We want to receive the sacraments and go back to work. We also want an end to (or at least a lessening of) the social distancing measures. Yet some things should never return to normal. God has embedded some important lessons that we need to learn from this experience, and which we would be wise to retain.

Early Jesuit mission site unearthed in Florida Keys

Early Jesuit mission site unearthed in Florida Keys: An archaeological team has announced the discovery of Fort San Antón de Carlos, a 16th-century Spanish colonial settlement containing the site of one of the earliest Jesuit missions in North America. The report, which was published on the academic reference site Springer Link, noted that their success came as the result of a 7-year archaeological effort to confirm records of Spanish activity on Mound Key.

Analysis: Did New York Democrats just tank Joe Biden’s presidential nomination?

Analysis: Did NY Democrats just tank Biden's nomination?CONDON: On Monday, officials in New York announced the cancellation of the state’s Democratic presidential primary, calling the event “essentially a beauty contest,” and a risk to public health in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.

While New York Democrats cited the inevitability of Joe Biden’s nomination for the party's candidacy as justification for calling off the primary, it could actually make the former VP's spot on the ticket anything but a forgone conclusion.

Biden is the prohibitive favorite for the nomination to face Donald Trump in November, but New York could become the first domino to fall in an unlikely set up for a contested Democratic convention between two Catholic politicians with national profiles.

No surprise — another ‘Womenpriests’ story offers PR spin instead of news

No #SURPRISE Another Womenpriests story offers public-relations ink instead of news — GetReligionMATTINGLY: How many times have your GetReligionistas written about one-sided mainstream press coverage of the tiny Womenpriests church, or movement, or association, or denomination, or independent church? We have already noted that no one seems to know if the proper journalistic style for the movement’s name is Womenpriests, WomenPriests or Women Priests...

The messiah of ‘Dune’ — Paul Atreides, the Kwisatz Haderach

The Messiah of 'Dune': Paul Atreides, the Kwisatz Haderach - Voyage Comics & PublishingSCOTTSMITH: The Dune series of books by Frank Herbert is rich in Christian symbolism, especially Messianic symbolism. One of the books of Hebert’s series is even titled Dune: Messiah.

Paul Atreides is the Messiah of Dune, the desert planet of Arrakis. He is the Kwisatz Haderach who will lead the people to “true freedom” and the Promised Land.

The desert Messiah of Dune is known by multiple names, even as the Messiah was also known as the “Lion of Judah” and the “Righteous Branch” from the stump of Jesse. Likewise, the Dune Messiah is known as the Kwisatz Haderach to the Bene Gessarit and Muad’Dib to the Fremen.

Dominicans hosting April 29 international Rosary rally to end pandemic

Dominicans hosting April 29 international Rosary rally to end pandemicBRISCOE: What have Dominican friars done in the past to respond to pandemics? Fr. Lawrence Lew, OP, the Promoter General of the Rosary of the Dominican Order, found himself asking this question as he began to search for a way to respond to our current health crisis. During a 17th-century plague, an Italian friar, John Ricciardi d’Altamura, began the tradition of perpetual Rosaries...

The overlooked key to maintaining your sanity during quarantine

The Overlooked Key to Maintaining Your Sanity During Quarantine | The Art of Manliness: Plenty of advice has been dispensed on how to maintain one’s sanity during this pandemic crisis.

Concentrate on what you can control.

Find time to take care of yourself.

Realize that what you’re experiencing is grief, and work towards not only acceptance of the situation, but finding positive meaning in it.

These are good points of guidance. But there’s an area of morale that we’ve written about extensively in the past and that podcast guest Loretta Breuning (look for her show to go up this week) recently reminded me about, that’s been largely overlooked: the need to tend to your dopamine.

Dopamine is the neurochemical of anticipation. It generates excitement, energy, and elation in expectation of possible future rewards. It’s released when we think about and make plans for potentially fun and pleasurable moments and events.

Long-lost ‘zombie’ U.S. military satellite found by amateur radio operator

'Zombie' Satellite Found By Amateur Radio Operator On COVID-19 Lockdown : NPR: There are more than 2,000 active satellites orbiting Earth. At the end of their useful lives, many will simply burn up as they reenter the atmosphere. But some will continue circling as "zombie" satellites — neither alive nor quite dead.

"Most zombie satellites are satellites that are no longer under human control, or have failed to some degree," says Scott Tilley.

Tilley, an amateur radio operator living in Canada, has a passion for hunting them down.

Human rights activist says Chinese Communist Party ‘is the most serious virus of all’

Human Rights Activist: Chinese Communist Party ‘is the Most Serious Virus of All’HADRO: The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) covered up the spread of the new coronavirus within the country, suppressing the real rate of infection and violating the rights of its citizens as it did so, a Chinese human rights activist told a forum at The Catholic University of America on Friday.

“It is time to recognize the threat the Chinese Communist Party poses to all humanity. The CCP represses and manipulates information to strengthen its hold on power, regardless of the toll on human lives,” human rights lawyer Chen Guangcheng said April 24 during an online forum on the CCP and the new coronavirus.

The forum was hosted by Faith & Law in partnership with the Institute for Human Ecology at the Catholic University of America. Guangcheng is Distinguished Visiting Fellow at Catholic University’s Institute for Policy Research and Catholic Studies.

On the resurrection body: Cannibals, crocodiles and corpses

On the Resurrection Body: Cannibals, Crocodiles and Corpses – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: Any school child that thinks about the resurrection of the body soon starts asking delightfully gruesome questions. After all, if they’ve ever seen a cat hit by a car, then been to a funeral and seen Uncle Mitch in the casket, and watched the coffin being lowered into the ground they have a pretty good idea what happens.

It doesn’t take long to figure out that dead bodies decay and that Uncle Mitch, who sat them on his knee for a story and gave them huge bowls of ice cream now lies very still in a box and will soon go all gooey like the cat by the roadside.

The Sisters of Life come to our rescue, too, in these coronavirus times

Sisters of Life Come to Our Rescue, Too, in These Coronavirus Times | National ReviewLOPEZ: For every year since I can remember, I’ve been able to attend the Sisters of Life annual New York gala. It’s put on by friends of the Sisters, to help them with some of the expenses of being our pro-life credibility. Like most other things, the gala has been canceled. So the Sisters are giving us a gift: a free virtual gala on Thursday night.

Your wi-fi is about to get its biggest upgrade in 20 years — they’re calling it “Wi-Fi 6E.” Here’s what you need to know...

Wi-Fi 6E, explained: what is 6GHz Wi-Fi? - The Verge: In a few months, there’s going to be a lot more Wi-Fi to go around. The Federal Communications Commission voted today to open up a plot of spectrum in the 6GHz band for unlicensed use — the same regulatory go-ahead that lets your router broadcast over the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. That means there are now more open airwaves — a lot more — that routers can use to broadcast Wi-Fi signals. Once the new spectrum is officially opened for business later this year, that should translate to faster, more reliable connections from the next generation of devices.

The reason Zoom calls drain your energy

The reason Zoom calls drain your energy - BBC Worklife: Your screen freezes. There’s a weird echo. A dozen heads stare at you. There are the work huddles, the one-on-one meetings and then, once you’re done for the day, the hangouts with friends and family.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, we’re on video calls more than ever before – and many are finding it exhausting.

But what, exactly, is tiring us out? BBC Worklife spoke to Gianpiero Petriglieri, an associate professor at Insead, who explores sustainable learning and development in the workplace, and Marissa Shuffler, an associate professor at Clemson University, who studies workplace wellbeing and teamwork effectiveness, to hear their views.

“The time has come to resume the Sunday Eucharist” — Italy’s bishops criticize state for keeping public Mass ban

Italy's bishops criticize state for keeping public Mass ban: Italy’s bishops have criticized Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte for failing to lift the ban on public Masses.

The Italian bishops’ conference Sunday released a statement denouncing Conte's decree on "phase 2" of the coronavirus lockdown restrictions, which it says "arbitrarily excludes the possibility of celebrating Mass with the people."

During a press conference April 26 to announce the next phase of Italy's COVID-19 restrictions, beginning May 4, Conte said funerals may resume with a maximum of 15 people present. Other religious celebrations, including public Masses, will resume “in the coming weeks.”

The bread and the wine and the power of the Cross to transform them

The Bread the Wine and the Power of the Cross to Transform Them - Community in MissionPOPE: Bread is made first by mixing it with water. In our Baptism we are made members of the Body of Christ by dying with Him and rising to new life. It is, then, and first of all, the water of Baptism that unites us. However, bread is incomplete until it is baked, until it is subject to the fire. Thus, Gaudentius teaches more fully, bread is made by mixing it with water and baking it with fire...

Building a new world in light of the Resurrection

Beginning to Pray: Building a New World in Light of the ResurrectionLILLES: Recently, Pope Francis called on the members of the Church to build a new world where there is equity among the poor and the rich. He did this in the face of the terrible devastation that has fallen on Italy during this time of pandemic. He also did so in light of the hope that we have in Christ. The Lord has risen from the dead and this opens up new possibilities for humanity, even in the face of anguish and anxiety...

In call with 600 Catholic leaders, Trump talks abortion and religious freedom, says his presidency is ‘best in the history of the Catholic Church’

Trump says he's 'best president in history of the Church' in call with Catholic leadersWHITE: President Donald Trump identified himself as the “best [president] in the history of the Catholic Church” in a conference call for Catholic leaders and educators Saturday, where he warned that issues at stake in the upcoming presidential election, particularly on abortion and religious liberty, “have never been more important for the Church.”

Trump also pledged support for Catholic schools in light of the global coronavirus pandemic.

In an audio recording of the meeting obtained by Crux, the president repeatedly emphasized his support for the pro-life movement and school choice, attempting to paint a stark contrast between his administration and what a Democratic presidency could mean for Catholics.

In spat over Mass, Italy’s PM may need the bishops more than they need him

In spat over Mass, Italy’s PM may need the bishops more than they need himALLEN: From the beginning, Italy has set the pace for much of the rest of the world regarding the coronavirus. Outside China, the pandemic broke out here first, and the government responded with the lockdowns and social distancing measures that have since become standard practice elsewhere.

Italy also led the way in terms of a church/state compact, with bishops shutting down public Masses immediately after the government decreed a national lockdown and, so far, taking their cues from the state about what to do when.

The Mass on the Move: Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, the Mass draws us from gloom to glory

Mass on the Move - A Homily for the 3rd Sunday of Easter - Community in MissionPOPE: In today’s Gospel we encounter two discouraged and broken men making their way to Emmaus. The text describes them as “downcast.” That is to say, their eyes are cast on the ground, their heads are hung low. Their Lord and Messiah has been killed, the one they had thought would finally liberate Israel. Some women had claimed that He was alive, but these disciples have discredited those reports and are now leaving Jerusalem. It is late in the afternoon and the sun is sinking low.

Pope’s Sunday Regina Coeli message: The ‘greatest reality’ is God’s love, not past disappointments

Pope Francis: The 'greatest reality' is God's love, not past disappointments: Jesus invites us to live with him in the present and not to get stuck in the disappointments and ‘what ifs’ of the past, Pope Francis said in his message before the Regina coeli antiphon on Sunday.

Like the disciples Jesus met on the road to Emmaus, as his disciples today we have “opposite directions” we could go, the pope said April 26 via livestream from the Vatican’s apostolic palace.

Here are the two prayers the Pope has asked Catholics to add to their Rosaries throughout May

Pope Francis Invites Faithful to Recite the Rosary To Help Overcome This Time of TrialPENTIN: As the coronavirus pandemic has led to many families praying together more, Pope Francis has invited the faithful to rediscover the beauty of praying the Rosary at home during May, the month of special devotions to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

In the letter to the faithful, the Holy Father has also provided two prayers to pray at the end of reciting the Rosary that he will also be praying “in spiritual union with all of you.”

“Contemplating the face of Christ with the heart of Mary our Mother will make us even more united as a spiritual family and will help us overcome this time of trial,” the Pope writes.

To all doomsayers, I say, watch this video and remember that God has called us to victory

On Heroic Human Overcoming - Community in MissionPOPE: In the video below we are shown many acts of bravery, heroism, courage and overcoming. In times like these we need to be reminded of that part of the human spirit that is unrelenting in meeting challenges and will not simply cower in fear or depression. Individuals will sometimes fall and give way to defeat, but collectively there is a powerful human capacity that God has given us to discover who we are in adversity. We learn new strengths and ways to adapt. To all doomsayers, I say, watch this video and remember that God has called us to victory, even if in sometimes paradoxical ways:

Some restaurants are turning their parking lots into drive-in movie theaters

Restaurants Are Turning Their Parking Lots into Drive-In Movie Theaters | Food & Wine: As the coronavirus pandemic closes businesses and shuts people into their houses, it seems that everything old is new again: chain letters, sourdough baking, and puzzles.

A few savvy restaurants, devoid of customers and looking for new ways to bring in business without putting people in danger, found the logical intersection of nostalgia, social distancing, and good eating: turning their parking lots into drive-in movie theaters.

Pope Francis urges Catholics to pray the Rosary in May, adds two new prayers to say at end of Rosary

Pope Francis urges Catholics to unite through praying the rosary in May: Pope Francis sent a letter Saturday encouraging Catholics to pray the rosary throughout May. He also shared two new prayers to implore the help of the Virgin Mary during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Contemplating the face of Christ with the heart of Mary our Mother will make us even more united as a spiritual family and will help us overcome this time of trial,” Pope Francis said in a letter April 25.

He urged families and individuals to “rediscover the beauty of praying the rosary at home in the month of May,” which is traditionally a time of increased devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Why did St. Paul write so little about Our Lord’s public ministry?

Keck on Why Paul Wrote So Little about Jesus’ Public Ministry – The Sacred PageBARBER: We are still celebrating “Easter Season” and so I thought I would offer a post on just how important the resurrection was for Paul. Specifically, I would like to spotlight what seems to be a throw-away paragraph in Leander Keck’s insightful book. First, some background. Keck points out that Paul did not write much about Jesus’ public teaching...

Join the new campaign to “Uplift Your Priest”

Join the new campaign to “Uplift Your Priest”GARDINER: The clergy have been playing a pivotal role during the pandemic by offering continued spiritual support and prayers to those in need. There are priests who’ve ignored potential risks to their own lives to ensure the hospitalized faithful receive the sacraments — leading to more than 100 deaths of priests in Italy alone. There are creative clergy who’ve come up with innovative ways to bring the sacraments and continue giving spiritual support while normal church services are suspended. And there are priests willing to be incarcerated to make sure those in prison can still receive spiritual guidance.

There are at least 16 types of people on Zoom — which one of these is you?

New Advent: There are at least 16 types of people on Zoom — which one of these is you?: From Preston Reid.

This Sunday is “Emmaus Road Sunday” — here are the readings

“Emmaus Road Sunday”: 3rd Sunday of Easter A – The Sacred PageBERGSMA: Jesus the Unique Savior. How do we know that Jesus was someone and something different than the numerous religious leaders or founders of religions that have appeared on the stage of world history over the centuries? Last week, we saw one way that he is different: unlike Buddha, Mohammed, or Zarathustra, Jesus rose from the grave after his death, appearing and talking to his followers at length. In this week’s liturgy, we examine another remarkable piece of evidence for the uniqueness of Jesus: the fact that his suffering and resurrection were strikingly foreshadowed by the sacred writings of the prophets of Israel, hundreds of years before his earthly sojourn.

How can beauty save the world? A lesson from Tolkien’s ‘Lord of the Rings’

How can beauty save the world? A lesson from Tolkien's 'Lord of the Rings' - Voyage Comics & PublishingKOSLOSKI: “At first the beauty of the melodies and of the interwoven words in elven-tongues, even though he understood them little, held him in a spell, as soon as as he began to attend to them. Almost it seemed that the words took shape, and visions of far lands and bright things that he had never yet imagined opened out before him; and the firelit hall became like a golden mist above the seas of foam that sighed upon the margins of the world. Then the enchantment became more and more dreamlike, until he felt that an endless river of swelling gold and silver was flowing over him, too multitudinous for its pattern to be comprehended; it became part of the throbbing air about him, and it drenched and drowned him. Swiftly he sank under its shining weight into a deep realm of sleep.”

This Sunday, Jesus calls out our discouragement

This Sunday, Jesus Calls Out Our Discouragement | The Gregorian Institute at Benedictine CollegeHOOPES: We are all the disciples on the way to Emmaus this Third Sunday of Easter, Year A.

The Scriptures continue to speak to our times so specifically that it seems as if God planned it that way. Which of course he did.

The disciples in Luke’s Gospel were anxious and afraid. The bright future they had a few months ago was gone.

They are not named and that is helpful; they stand for each of us. They are going to “Emmaus” but we don’t know where that was, and that is also helpful; it turns the focus to where they were leaving, Jerusalem, the place Jesus has been journeying to throughout Luke’s Gospel.

Here is Our Lord’s charter for the Church

The Mandate and Experience of the Church According to Jesus - Community in MissionPOPE: The proclamation of the Church is that we speak to the world of what we know, what we have experienced. To emphasize this, Jesus adds that the proclamation of the Church is not simply what we know but what we have “seen.” Here, too, a tangible experience is referenced. This is the proclamation of ancient truths, presently experienced—seen. In other words, the Church can raise her right hand and swear to the truth of all that Jesus has said and done because she knows it; she experiences it; she has seen it—she has witnessed it occurring.

ChurchPOP’s Jacqueline Burkepile and Scott Hahn talk coronavirus and our hope in the resurrection of the dead

Scott Hahn Offers Divine Hope For COVID Pandemic: "Hold Up The Light of the Body of Christ" |: Catholic theologian Scott Hahn recently spoke with ChurchPOP English editor Jacqueline Burkepile about his latest book, Hope to Die: The Christian Meaning of Death and the Resurrection of the Body.

The founder of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology provides hope, especially during this coronavirus pandemic. He explains why we should not fear of death, and touches on God’s presence during this time of crisis.

“The greatest miracle that Christ could do is not simply to help us discover a vaccine and a cure, but to cure us of our own disordered fear of suffering and dying. This disordered fear of losing natural life, when in fact, what we ought to fear the loss of supernatural life.

Get out! “The science could not be clearer: The benefits of getting outside vastly outweigh the risk of getting infected in a park...”

We can open all the parks and beaches now.: The past week’s tiny anti-lockdown protests are the exception that proves the rule: The U.S. has demonstrated widespread commitment to quarantine, social distancing, and business closures to stop the spread of the coronavirus. The response has surprised some skeptics who predicted that true patriots would never stop going to Applebee’s, and it raises the possibility that even Americans might submit to the mass test-and-trace programs that are underway in South Korea and on the way in Germany, two countries that appear to be handling the pandemic well.

Why you’re very unlikely to get the coronavirus from runners or cyclists (no matter what you’ve read about aerosols)

Getting coronavirus from runners, cyclists, or air outside is unlikely - Vox: Under social distancing, we’re all doing our best to stay sane, and one of the best ways to maintain sanity is to go out for some nice fresh air. But venturing outside can be stressful if you’re worried that the very air is full of virus particles just waiting to infect you.

So, how worried should you be that any time you go outside, you’ll contract coronavirus from a fellow pedestrian, runner, or cyclist who happens to exhale as they pass by?

The answer is, you probably don’t need to freak out about it. As long as you’re maintaining at least 6 feet of distance from other people and you’re not in a high-risk group, you’re engaged in a very low-risk activity, particularly if you and others are wearing masks.

Despite our technological hubris, we remain toddlers in God’s gracious creation — so give thanks to God, Governor Cuomo

Thank God, Governor Cuomo - Crisis MagazinePERRICONE: Upon hearing the puerile remarks of Governor Andrew Cuomo last week, Chesterton came to mind. The lapsed Catholic governor is usually prone to inanity and offense, but this reached new heights: “We have turned the corner on the Coronavirus plague. It was not faith or prayers that did it. Only hard work and science.” To such blather, Chesterton says: “The madman is the one who has one idea completely right, but one does not know where it fits into the whole of things.” Indeed, as with so many men of modernity, the governor is a madman. Yet he does have one idea right: essential to man’s flourishing is hard work and the pursuit of knowledge. But he does not know “where it fits into the whole of things.” The whole is God, which Mr. Cuomo fails to see, and that blindness is as large as a galaxy. Faith and prayer precede, accompany, and complete every act of man. Denying this is a reprise of the ruinous sin committed in Eden. This original sin was the emancipation of man from the clutches of God. Pride is the only sin that an angel could commit—and Lucifer did, with his non serviam. His was the first act of madness. Mr. Cuomo marches in that line.

Three more U.S. bishops announce return of public Masses

Three More US Bishops Announce Return of Public Masses: Three further Catholic dioceses have announced they will resume public celebration of Mass, subject to the requirements of public health orders and social distancing.

The Montana dioceses of Great Falls-Billings and Helena both announced the re-openings on Thursday, April 23, one day after the bishop of Lubbock, Texas told his priests to prepare to restore access to Communion for Catholics in the diocese.

The public celebration of Mass has been prohibited in dioceses across the United States for over a month as part of efforts to halt the spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The decisions come one week after Bishop Peter Baldacchino of Las Cruces, New Mexico, became the first bishop in the United States to lift the ban on public celebration of Mass in his diocese.

Caught on video: Italian police disrupt Divine Mercy Sunday Mass

Caught on Video: Italian Police Disrupt Divine Mercy Sunday MassPENTIN: An attempt by Italian police to halt a Mass in a northern Italian church because it appeared to be violating state-decreed lockdown rules has led to criticism of heavy-handedness on the Catholic Church by overzealous civil authorities. Captured on video and published by local newspaper Cremona Oggi, as Father Lino Viola was celebrating Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday in the church of San Pietro Apostolo in Soncino in the province of Cremona — one of the areas hardest-hit by the coronavirus — a member of the Carabinieri, Italy’s military police, entered the church before the canon and ordered the Mass to stop.

William Shakespeare and the Gunpowder Plot

Shakespeare and the Gunpowder Plot - Crisis MagazinePEARCE: The fact that Shakespeare was a believing Catholic in very anti-Catholic times can be proven beyond any reasonable doubt. The evidence is convincing in terms of what is known about his life and from what can be seen in his plays and poems. Since this is so, it’s intriguing to consider Shakespeare’s response to the infamous Gunpowder Plot, the so-called “papist plot” to blow up the king and Parliament which was discovered in November 1605.

Rediscovering baptism in plague time

Rediscovering baptism in plague time - Denver CatholicWEIGEL: On April 29, 1951, Father Thomas Love, SJ, baptized me in the Church of Sts. Philip and James, near Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. Family legend has it that I raised such a furor during the proceedings that my cousin Judy hid in a confessional. There are pictures of the christening, and a few years ago I found a lovely letter that Father Love (whom I never met) wrote me shortly afterwards. But I cannot say that I took the date of my baptism seriously until I was nudged into greater baptismal awareness in the 1980s.

Storm chaser in Oklahoma captures extreme closeup video of April 22 Madill tornado

New Advent: Storm chaser in Oklahoma captures extreme closeup video of April 22 Madill tornado: This tornado damaged town structures and lofted trees into the air before transitioning to a rope phase. Many people observed a rainbow with this tornado. Moments after the tornado struck, the sky was blue and sunny.

In wide-ranging interview with Zenit, Bishop Robert Barron talks about how we might “turn this period into an evangelical opportunity”

*Exclusive Interview* with Bishop Barron on Catholic Living Amid Coronavirus Crisis - ZENIT - EnglishLUBOV: In the midst of this global pandemic, Bishop Barron says: “Turn this time of waiting into an evangelical opportunity…”

In an exclusive, wide-ranging interview with Zenit, the Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles and founder of Word on Fire Catholic Ministries, made this suggestion, as he reflected on various ways faithful can reconnect spiritually during this dramatic time.

In the interview, the American prelate reflects on the situation in California and the United States, and how–despite the death and suffering caused by COVID19 worldwide, and the restrictions imposed as a result–to live our faith fully, and how to stay holy despite difficulties.

A relic of the Holy Thorn changed color amid the coronavirus pandemic, says Italian bishop

Relic of the Holy Thorn Changes Color Amid Coronavirus Pandemic, Italian Bishop Announces |: The relic belongs to Jesus’ original crown of thorns. The Cathedral of Andrea held the relic “since 1308, as many know, a distinguished Relic of the Passion of Christ, consisting of one of the thorns that formed the crown placed on the Savior’s head,” Bishop Mansi said.

Tradition says that the relic’s appearance changes when the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord (Mar. 25) falls on Good Friday.

Dutch Supreme Court rules doctors can euthanize dementia patients

Dutch Supreme Court Rules Doctors Can Euthanize Dementia Patients: The Supreme Court of the Netherlands ruled on Tuesday, April 21, that it is lawful for doctors to euthanize patients with severe dementia, provided that the patient had expressed a desire to be euthanized while still legally capable of doing so. Lower courts had previously ruled that a doctor had not acted improperly when he euthanized a 74-year-old woman with advanced dementia, even though the woman had to be repeatedly sedated and physically restrained during the procedure.

William Shakespeare (whose birthday is celebrated today) was a secret Catholic conspirator

Shakespeare the Catholic Conspirator – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: It is a web of intriguing evidence from the fact that Shakespeare’s mother came from a famous family of recusant Catholics, his school teachers were Catholics and his father was fined for being a Catholic as was his daughter. Pearce pieces together the rest of the evidence as well in a fascinating study that comes up with the conclusion that if Shakespeare wasn’t a practicing Catholic then, at least his worldview, his values and beliefs were infused with a Catholic vision.

Photos and diagrams reveal what’s hidden underneath St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome

What Sits Underneath St. Peter's Basilica in Rome ~ Liturgical Arts JournalTRIBE: Most are already more than familiar with the altar and baldachin of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome as well as the confessio that sits beneath of it. What they may not, however, be as familiar with is exactly just what sits beneath that, beyond what they can see with their own eyes. Today I thought it would be of interest to show a little bit of what, archeologically speaking, sits behind and beneath this, for there is a great deal more to it than meets the eye.

Researchers follow a 15th-century recipe to recreate medieval blue ink

Researchers Follow a 15th-Century Recipe to Recreate Medieval Blue Ink | Smart News | Smithsonian Magazine: In southern Portugal, an unassuming, silvery plant with small, green- and white-flecked fruit grows on the edges of fields and along the sides of roads. But when researchers stirred the fruit—called Chrozophora tinctoria—into a mixture of methanol and water, it released a dark blue, almost purple hue.

Non-European pope mounts defense of EU amid coronavirus ‘paralysis’

Non-European Pope mounts defense of EU amid coronavirus 'paralysis'ALLEN: Italy today marks day 46 of its nationwide lockdown caused by the coronavirus, which may help explain the impatience with which many Italians view today’s video summit of EU leaders to discuss a shared approach to recovery from the pandemic - a summit which, according to news reports, will not even be “decision-making” in nature.

“All this is an ongoing process,” one EU official said in advance, so today’s virtual gathering “won’t give all the answers on the numbers of the next EU budget or on what innovative instruments will be fielded to respond.”

Harvard prof says homeschooling is “dangerous” because it gives “powerful people” (parents) too much influence over their kids

Harvard’s Bizarre Take on HomeschoolingCLARK: An article in Harvard Magazine called “The Risks of Homeschooling” by Erin O’Donnell has been making the rounds lately in the Catholic homeschooling world. Since the article casts a wide net of aspersions upon a form of education that many of us hold dear, numerous Catholics have strenuously objected to it.

But it’s not only Catholics who have objected to O’Donnell’s article; even atheist homeschool parents were offended by its accusatory tone. Though it’s tempting to ignore and dismiss the article, I believe it’s important to respond from the perspective of a second-generation homeschooler.

US and Canada to be consecrated May 1 to ‘Mary, Mother of the Church’ in response to pandemic

US and Canada to be consecrated to 'Mary, Mother of the Church': Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles is inviting all U.S. bishops to join him on May 1 in reconsecrating the U.S. to the Blessed Virgin Mary in response to the pandemic. The reconsecration is timed to coincide with the bishops of Canada consecrating their own country to Mary at the same time.

Archbishop Gomez, president of the U.S. Catholic bishops’ conference (USCCB), said in a letter sent to all American bishops April 22, that the Marian reconsecration would be done under the title of “Mary, Mother of the Church.” He invited all the bishops of the country to join him in prayer on May 1 at 12 p.m. PDT, or 3 p.m. EDT.

The real reason to wear a mask

Don't Wear a Mask for Yourself - The Atlantic: If you feel confused about whether people should wear masks and why and what kind, you’re not alone. COVID-19 is a novel disease and we’re learning new things about it every day. However, much of the confusion around masks stems from the conflation of two very different functions of masks.

Inspector Clouseau interrogates the staff

New Advent: Inspector Clouseau interrogates the staff: “But that’s a priceless Steinway!”

“Not anymore.”

Is the Church just a big club? Is it all about keeping the “club” solvent and the “club members” feeling okay? Or is it about bringing Jesus Christ to the world?

Accompaniment | Charlotte was BothWELBORN: What’s our primary concern? Institutional preservation? Focused on “Chin up, someday we’ll be together again, look, I put your pictures in the pews, guys, and don’t forget that online giving portal!” Or is it expressive of a recognition that this is a moment in which people are experiencing great fear and disappointment, are facing real economic hardship, are looking at their plans and expectations challenged or even shattered, and perhaps, for the first time, are confronting the inevitability of death?

Bishops should be loved (always) and obeyed (usually). But divine law, natural law and canon law come first...

Christian Prudence in Times of Pandemic | Stephen A. Hipp | First ThingsHIPP: Catholics are understandably unsettled, even angry over the Church’s response to COVID-19. Although the Church (especially the clergy) is divided on it, we need to approach the question with charity. It does no good to accuse advocates of maintaining the sacramental life of such things as pretentiousness, libertarianism, disregard for science, recklessness, individualism, or narcissism. All interlocutors need to make proper distinctions in the interest of clarity, fairness, and service to the Church.

Do you believe in ghosts and demons? They’re real, and the Church knows how to handle them...

Ghosts, Demons and Deliverance – Fr. Dwight LongeneckerLONGENECKER: Do you believe in ghosts? C.S. Lewis said he only met one woman who had ever seen a ghost and she said afterwards she didn’t believe in ghosts. It illustrates that perceiving is not believing. I read an article not long ago claiming that sightings of ghosts, demons, werewolves, black beasts and monsters of all kinds are higher than ever in modern day Britain. When I worked as an Anglican priest in England I received regular requests to cleanse houses of spooky stuff. There is a lot of ignorance about the different types of paranormal activity.Ghosts and demons are not the same thing, although people often put them in the same category.

Tomie dePaola: Making old things new

Tomie dePaola: Making Old Things New - Crisis MagazineFITZPATRICK: Eastertime rejoices in life, when even things as old as the world are made new again. It is at this time of resurrection that Catholics may also remember those who have passed away in the hope of rising again, and especially those whose memory might be seasoned with the brightness they brought to life by their lives—how they participated in Christ’s work to make all things new...

The science, techniques, and recipes to elevate your grilling

The Science, Techniques, and Recipes to Elevate Your Grilling ( Grill Giveaway!) | The Art of Manliness: As we dive into spring and summer, there are many sacrifices being made during this pandemic that are necessary for the greater good. I’ve quarantined myself and my family here in Nashville to do my own small part. However, that doesn’t mean that I’ve stopped living or, dare I say, enjoying my daily life. That’s especially true when it comes to my most favorite craft; whether in good times or bad, as the title of my newest book declares, I confess to being a serial griller.

The complete guide to hiking (and enjoying it)

The Complete Guide to Hiking (And Enjoying It) | The Art of Manliness: Hiking is undoubtedly one of the best recreational activities and hobbies around. To begin with, it’s a great way to get physical exercise. The amount of effort you expend can be ramped up or down depending on the length of time you’re hiking and the trails you decide to tackle, and even when the level of exertion is high, it’s a challenge that feels deeply satisfying.

Historically, seasonal allergies didn’t really exist. Here’s why they’ve exploded in the last 50 years...

New Advent: Historically, seasonal allergies didn’t really exist. Here’s why they’ve exploded in the last 50 years...: Sniffling. Sneezing. Runny eyes. Springtime brings a rush of seasonal allergies that plague us — but historically, allergies were mild — if they existed at all. In fact, allergies became a force to be reckoned with only in the 1970s. Cheddar explains how we’re to blame for our own allergies.

Pope on Earth Day: “Send forth your Spirit, O Lord, and renew the face of the earth”

On Earth Day, Pope Francis urges solidarity with most vulnerable: Commenting on the celebration of Earth Day during his general audience Wednesday, Pope Francis urged people to show solidarity with the weak and vulnerable and to protect humanity’s common home.

According to Pope Francis, Earth Day “is an occasion for renewing our commitment to love and care for our common home and for the weaker members of our human family.”

State by state: Comparing coronavirus death rates across the U.S.

State by State: Comparing Coronavirus Death Rates Across the U.S. - The New York Times: Since the first confirmed case, the coronavirus has spread to all 50 states, claiming the lives of Americans coast to coast. This week, several Southern governors announced that they would ease restrictions on businesses. As governors in other parts of the country form coalitions to strategize lifting stay-at-home orders, a look at regional patterns reveals the challenges they will face as they try to combat the crisis.

Sacrifice and mercy: The spiritual mission of St. Faustina

Sacrifice And Mercy: The Spiritual Mission Of St. FaustinaLILLES: Sr. Maria Faustina Kowalska died at the age of 33 in 1938, misunderstood by most of the religious sisters with whom she had lived her life. They appreciated her kindness, hard work, and faithfulness to their rule of life, but many of her fellow religious also thought that she was delusional and tormented. Indeed, she claimed to have received several revelations from the Lord...

Turn from your sins and return to the Lord — this is the Kairos of Confession!

Turn From Your Sins and Return to the Lord — This is the Kairos of ConfessionPOPE: You and I, though we face judgment one day, are now living in a time of grace and mercy. During our time in this world, God extends every necessary grace to save us. God showers us with sanctifying and actual graces, instructs us with his word; heals us with his sacraments; gives us Mary and the saints to inspire us and pray for us; and instructs us through the sacred teachings of the Church.

Things like isolation and quarantine follow a predictable emotional pattern. What psychological phase are you in?

Isolation and quarantine: What psychological phase are you in?: This is a difficult time for everyone. Our routine has suddenly slowed down and completely changed, and those who haven’t been able to self-isolate are afraid of being infected by the coronavirus. We can’t treat this as an irrational fear — it’s a real fear that can’t be ignored.
Strategies of self-consolation (such as deep breathing and repeating over and over again that everything will be all right) often stop working as we get to know cases of people close to us who suffer from COVID-19, and may even be losing family and friends to it.

Franciscan University of Steubenville to cover tuition for new students because of COVID-19

Franciscan University to cover tuition for new students because of COVID-19: In response to the economic crisis precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio, announced that it will cover tuition for all incoming students in the fall.
The president and board of trustees of the Catholic university unanimously approved the plan at their April 18 meeting, according to a press release. President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, said, “As a University, we feel called by God to ease the burden for students, so they can experience the irreplaceable value of a Franciscan University education. We’ve heard from many students whose concerns over the pandemic are making the decision to leave home for college more difficult.”

How submarines regularly “fight to the death” off the Bahamas

How Submarines Regularly 'Fight To The Death' Off The Bahamas - The Drive: The Bahamas are home to white beaches, sun-scorched tourists, towering cruise ships, and the United States Navy’s most advanced weapons and sensor testing range. Beneath the revealing party goers dancing on the lido deck, submarines sail quietly through the Northeast Providence Channel into a secure area called the Atlantic Undersea Test and Evaluation Center, or AUTEC.

The 6 shortest rivers in the world

The Shortest Rivers in The World | Amusing Planet: Most people imagine rivers to be long meandering waterways flowing down faraway mountains, through the valleys and the plains until it reaches the ocean or a lake. Along its entire route, the river fertilizes the land allowing plants and crops to grow. Animals congregate around its banks, humans build towns and cities.

One year later, Sri Lanka stops to remember 280 victims of Easter Sunday 2019 church bombings

SRI LANKA Sri Lanka stops to remember the vicitm of last year’s Easter Sunday attacks: One year after the tragedy, Sri Lanka came to stop today to remember the victims of the bomb attacks against three churches – two Catholic and one Protestant – and three hotels on Easter Sunday 2019. The explosions left some 280 people dead, including 45 foreigners, and nearly 600 wounded.

In a video message carried on Verbum Catholic TV, Archbishop Card Malcom Ranjith of Colombo thanked all those who showed respect to the victims and expressed solidarity with them and their families. The cardinal also called for those in office a year ago to pay for their mistakes.

Archbishop Asiri Perera, head of the country’s Methodist Church, told AsiaNews that members and prelates of his Church marked the anniversary by observing two minutes of silence. The country's Muslim and Buddhist leaders did the same.

Nosferatu, the Spanish Flu and Our Lady of Fatima

Nosferatu, the Spanish Flu and FatimaTURLEY: At the center of the 1922 film Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror are scenes of a plague, which has been visited upon a hitherto prosperous and relatively happy German community. The bringers of that plague are the rats that accompany the vampire Count Orlok from his lair in Transylvania. Soon, everyday life in the fictional town of Wisborg is transformed by a never-ending parade of coffin-bearers led by frock-coated and solemn-faced undertakers.

‘Some Good News’ from John Krasinki (Episode 4) — with weather reporter Brad Pitt

New Advent: ‘Some Good News’ from John Krasinki (Episode 4): John Krasinski highlights some good news around the world (including weather from Brad Pitt), has NASA astronauts from the International Space Station stop by, and invites you to relive #SGNProm with special guests Billie Eilish, Jonas Brothers, Chance the Rapper, and Rainn Wilson.

No matter how long it’s been, go to Confession! God dwelt within you at your Baptism, and he wishes to dwell within you again...

Our Best Defense is Sanctifying GraceCLARK: Whenever it comes, death itself is tragic. There’s no way to sanitize that reality. But there is something more tragic: dying in the state of mortal sin. There is no greater catastrophe than choosing the eternal death of damnation for oneself by willfully and finally rejecting the friendship and love of God. This is not a popular topic, even for Catholics...

You will bear fruit for God! You might not think so, and you might not see it, but you’re doing more than you know...

You Will Bear Fruit for God. You Just Might Not See It | The StreamMILLS: Writers, I admit, whine a lot. Even some of the superstars. However many readers we have, we want more. We want more comments and shares and likes. We look at the world like a love-starved labrador puppy.

You roll your eyes at the vanity. But it’s not just vanity. People write because they think they have something to say. Christian writers believe God gave them the gift to write and expects them to use it. They work hard at their writing. And sometimes, even often ... crickets.

An Easter exhortation for tough times

An Easter Exhortation for Tough Times - Community in MissionPOPE: As we all know, this was perhaps the strangest Easter that any of us have experienced at least collectively. The liturgical calendar shouts new life and victory over the grave, and yet throughout the world, many are hunkered down in the fear of death. Despite the Easter glow these are dark days for many who suffer illness or economic stress. But, to be sure, the first Easter was experienced in great uncertainty and danger...

How can this crisis time make for deeper living and flourishing? Try the Liturgy of the Hours...

Coronavirus Shutdown: Liturgy of the Hours Helps for Prayer and Sanity | National ReviewLOPEZ: I’ve found that if you ask a sensible priest or nun these days what habit might help for prayer and sanity during quarantine, they tend to say: the Liturgy of the Hours. The Liturgy of the Hours is known as the prayer of the Church. You wake up and you pray. You stop at midday and you pray. In the evening, you pray, and before you go to sleep, too. When you pray night prayer, or compline, you really take a look at your day and ask God to forgive you where you need forgiveness. You can even stop mid-morning and mid-afternoon, if you choose. You live your life, guided by prayer.

Pope Francis postpones World Youth Day and World Meeting of Families due to coronavirus

Pope Francis postpones World Youth Day and Meeting of Families due to coronavirus: Pope Francis has decided to postpone by one year World Youth Day and the World Meeting of Families, according to the Vatican. The events were expected to take place during the summers of 2022 and 2021.

World Youth Day, programmed for Lisbon, Portugal in August 2022, will now take place in August 2023, according to an April 20 statement from Matteo Bruni, Holy See press office director.

The joy of Easter: Singing and living like Christ is alive

The Joy of Easter: Singing and Living Like Christ Is Alive – Building Catholic CultureSTAUDT: Even if know that Easter is the most important feast of the liturgical year, Christmas still seems like a much bigger deal. Christmas is known for its cheer, singing, treats, presents, fires, and family, but we’re not quite sure how to celebrate Easter. Pascha focuses like the original Passover on being spared of death and beginning a new life...

Your need for mercy is greater than you could ever imagine. Think about what Christ has done, and be grateful and astonished...

Perfect and Astonishing Divine Mercy - Community in MissionPOPE: In the afterglow of Divine Mercy Sunday it seems opportune to make a few observations about the glorious mercy of our Lord. As a prelude we ought to set aside some mistaken notions of mercy.

We live in times in which mercy, like so many other things, has become a detached concept in people’s minds,separated from the things that really help us to understand it. For indeed, mercy makes sense and is necessary because we are sinners in desperate shape. Yet many today think it unkind and unmerciful to speak of sin and to refer to people sinners...

Study finds young strong in faith amid virus, but increasingly lonely

Study finds young strong in faith amid virus, but increasingly lonelyWHITE: A new study finds that while young people are experiencing heightened levels of loneliness and isolation as a result of social distancing, they are not experiencing a decline in their faith.

Among those surveyed, 35 percent of respondents said that they are actually experiencing an increase of faith, and 46 percent attested to having developed new religious practices.

The Atlantic offers 33 glimpses of Colorado and some of the animals and people calling it home

Colorado: Images of the Centennial State - The Atlantic: Colorado became the 38th state in the union in 1876, with a population of fewer than 200,000. Today, some 5.8 million people live in the Centennial State. The territory of Colorado ranges from the broad high plains in the east to the Southern Rocky Mountains, with more than 50 peaks taller than 14,000 feet. Here are a few glimpses of the landscape of Colorado and some of the animals and people calling it home.

If you follow Jesus Christ who is mercy itself, He will bring you home

Beginning to Pray: Divine Mercy Sunday in the PandemicLILLES: The mercy of God is at work in the world because Jesus is at work in the world. He is bringing to completion the eternal plan of the Father in manifold ways - and the greater the work being done, the more hidden from our eyes the accomplishment. This is not magical thinking. It is simply faith.

We do have a problem with magical thinking in the world.

The connection between St. Thérèse of Lisieux and Saint Faustina is no coincidence

Therese: Saint of Divine Mercy – Discalced Carmelite Friars: Today is the Octave Day of Easter; a day designated by the Church as Divine Mercy Sunday. It is a time to recall with special attention the great gift of mercy that we receive from the risen Christ. Divine Mercy Sunday is intimately connected to the early 20th-century Polish nun Saint Faustina. Her famous diary recounts visions and revelations from throughout her life in which Jesus shared the abundance of His mercy and expressed His desire that this Sunday be dedicated to remembering that gift. On one occasion Saint Faustina heard these words from our Lord,

For Pope Francis, the quarantine has put two signature causes in conflict

For Pope Francis, quarantine puts two signature causes in conflictALLEN: Today marks Day 42 without public Mass here in Italy, part of a nationwide coronavirus quarantine. As the infection rate continues to decline there’s been speculation about a ripresa, meaning a gradual return to normality, and as part of that scenario, the Italian bishops are in talks with the government as to when liturgical life can restart...

The Lyrid meteor shower, the best night sky show for months, is active now

Lyrid meteor shower, the best night sky show for months, is active now - CNET: The Lyrid meteor shower officially started up Thursday and will remain active for about 10 days, with the peak viewing night coming late Tuesday into Wednesday morning, according to the Griffith Observatory. This is a shower perfect for early risers, as the hour or two before dawn is probably the best time to spot the "shooting stars."

The Lyrids are bits of rock and dust left behind by the comet C/1861 G (Thatcher). Each year around this time, the Earth drifts through a cloud of debris from an earlier visit by the comet -- its most recent trip through the inner solar system was in 1861 -- and those particles collide with our upper atmosphere at a speed of about 27 miles (43 kilometers) per second.

The hidden connection between Mary and Divine Mercy

The Hidden Connection Between Mary and Divine MercyGRESS: For many years I’ve marveled about the “coincidence” of three highly influential saints living in Krakow at roughly the same moment in history: St. Faustina Kowalska, St. Maximilian Kolbe, and Pope St. John Paul II.

George Weigel has pointed out in the book we co-authored, City of Saints, that Poland was the place where the 20th century happened...

An astonishing miracle of Divine Mercy at Auschwitz

An Astonishing Miracle of Divine Mercy at AuschwitzTURLEY: I have visited Auschwitz only once.

It is not a place to which I wish to return any time soon.

Although that visit was many years ago, Auschwitz is a place one does not forget.

Whether it is the large silent rooms with glass screens, behind which lie the stacked remains of the confiscated clothes and luggage...

Locusts and coronavirus: A nightmare of biblical proportions is threatening the horn of Africa

Locusts and coronavirus: A Biblical nightmare strikes the horn of Africa | Grist: What if COVID-19 had shown up in the United States last year, just as Hurricane Dorian forced people out of their homes and into shelters? What would it feel like to be told to shelter in place as wildfires approach your doorstep? It’s hard to imagine handling more than one disaster of this magnitude — but before the novel coronavirus struck the horn of Africa, countries already had a plague on their hands.

All grace flows from Divine Mercy

All Grace Flows From Mercy - Crisis MagazineFITZPATRICK: Mercy and justice are difficult to balance in human affairs, and even more difficult can be the belief in their balance in the God from Whom we beg for the one while trembling in fear of the other. These are days when it is not difficult to believe we are feeling the heavy hand of justice as the world continues to cower before the coronavirus. Can we believe in and beg for mercy as well? Without justice, there can be no mercy, and so Divine Mercy Sunday comes with a new poignancy this year for our hearts, and a new potential to understand the purposes of the human heart and the Sacred Heart.

9 things you need to know about Divine Mercy Sunday

9 Things You Need to Know About Divine Mercy SundayAKIN: The Divine Mercy image depicts Jesus at the moment he appears to the disciples in the Upper Room, after the Resurrection, when he empowers them to forgive or retain sins.

This moment is recorded in John 20:19-31, which is the Gospel reading for this Sunday in all three yearly Sunday liturgical cycles (A, B, and C).

This reading is placed on this day because it includes the appearance of Jesus to the Apostle Thomas (in which Jesus invites him to touch his wounds). This event occurred on the eighth day after the Resurrection (John 20:26), and so it is used on the liturgy eight days after Easter.

Imagine if Our Lord had said these true (but merciless) words to His disciples

Divinely Merciful | Parishable ItemsFELTES: If Jesus would have declared such things to his apostles his charges would not have been untrue. But this is thankfully not what Jesus did. Instead, he came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you,” a phrase he says three times in this Sunday’s gospel. Christ’s Passion, death, and Resurrection are not for our condemnation. Jesus comes in mercy for his apostles and for us. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,” St. Peter writes, “who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”

An art expert looks at Caravaggio’s “The Incredulity of Saint Thomas”

New Advent: An art expert looks at Caravaggio’s “The Incredulity of Saint Thomas”: “The Incredulity of Saint Thomas” is housed in a museum in Potsdam, Germany.

Are you a creative writer? Then here’s your assignment: Write a 10-minute radio script in response to the theme ‘Quarantine’

The Quarantine Plays — The Merry Beggars: Moved by the unprecedented event of a ‘global quarantine’ due to Coronavirus, The Merry Beggars seeks submissions of 10-minute radio plays responding to the theme of ‘Quarantine.’

Ven. William Gagnon — America’s Missionary of Mercy in the Vietnam War

Ven. William Gagnon — Missionary of Mercy in the Vietnam WarONEILL: He had literally worn his heart out.

On Feb. 28, 1972, Brother William Gagnon collapsed and died. His fellow Brothers Hospitallers of St. John of God buried him in the garden of their convent and hospital near Saigon, and immediately, people started visiting his grave — the Vietnamese novices he had guided into a stable community, children caught in the crossfire of a post-colonial power struggle, the refugees he had nursed back to health from malnutrition, and the soldiers whose wounds he had cured. In the community of the Hospitallers, those who had known him retold anecdotes of his courage, constant service, and leadership in turmoil. Brother William’s good works outlived him, just as he knew they would.

Why should you pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet?

Why Should You Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet?FENELON: When I first heard about the Divine Mercy Chaplet, I thought it was ridiculous.

That was in the year 2000, when St. Pope John Paul II canonized St. Faustina and granted universal observance of the Feast of Divine Mercy annually on the Second Sunday of Easter. Up to that point, I’d never heard of Divine Mercy, nor did I know much about chaplets in general. So, I knew nothing about the Divine Mercy Chaplet.

We have the Rosary; why do we need anything else? I thought to myself.

I figured one bead-related devotion was plenty. The Blessed Mother herself had given the devotion to St. Dominic (d. 1221), citing 15 promises to all who pray the Rosary. “Whatever you ask in the Rosary will be granted,” she told him.

Pope on Divine Mercy Sunday: “The early Church received mercy and lived with mercy. This is not some ideology. It is Christianity...”

Full text: Pope Francis’ homily on Divine Mercy SundayCOATOFARMS: Last Sunday we celebrated the Lord’s resurrection; today we witness the resurrection of his disciple. It has already been a week, a week since the disciples had seen the Risen Lord, but in spite of this, they remained fearful, cringing behind “closed doors” (Jn 20:26), unable even to convince Thomas, the only one absent, of the resurrection. What does Jesus do in the face of this timorous lack of belief? He returns and, standing in the same place, “in the midst” of the disciples, he repeats his greeting: “Peace be with you!” (Jn 20:19, 26). He starts all over. The resurrection of his disciple begins here, from this faithful and patient mercy, from the discovery that God never tires of reaching out to lift us up when we fall. He wants us to see him, not as a taskmaster with whom we have to settle accounts, but as our Father who always raises us up. In life we go forward tentatively, uncertainly, like a toddler who takes a few steps and falls; a few steps more and falls again, yet each time his father puts him back on his feet. The hand that always puts us back on our feet is mercy: God knows that without mercy we will remain on the ground, that in order to keep walking, we need to be put back on our feet.

Our worry over coronavirus testifies to 5 truths about man

Social Distancing and the Reality of Bodily PresenceENGELLAND: The ancient philosopher Plato understood philosophy as training for death. That didn’t mean thinking morbid thoughts or giving away one’s earthly possessions. Instead, it meant focusing on what is ultimately important, given the fact that our time here is limited, and none of us is sure what death will bring.

In that sense, this new coronavirus is making all of us into philosophers. We are having to distinguish what is important from what isn’t — what is essential from what is accidental. The great unknown, including the threat of an unforeseeable death for ourselves and our loved ones, brings everything else into question. Yet our worry testifies to a number of truths.

A few years ago, Chicago’s St. John Cantius parish was almost dead. Now, because of its famous attention to reverent worship, it’s thriving

Attention to worship leads to a thriving Chicago parish: During the summer of 1988, Chicago’s St. John Cantius Church was in crisis.

The parish that formerly ministered to a vibrant Polish community saw its neighborhood transformed across several decades into a seedy district with mostly commercial properties. The large church, which used to welcome hundreds of worshippers each Sunday, saw about 70 congregants each week.

However, the arrival of Resurrectionist Father Frank Phillips as pastor in August 1988 marked a turning point for the parish. Phillips reignited St. John Cantius through dedication to the Church’s liturgical tradition, building a center of music and worship where Catholics from across the region come to pray.

This French tapestry depicting the Apocalypse speaks to modern anxieties

French tapestry depicting the Apocalypse speaks to modern anxietiesBURGER: Growing death tolls. Economic collapse. Widespread terror from the fact that a deadly virus can be so easily and unwarily caught. Deepening political divisions.
One can hardly be blamed for a creeping feeling that the end of the world is upon us. And one place many people have always turned for some hint as to what the end of the world might look like is the very last book of the Bible. The very name of that book — the Apocalypse — instills dread.

Here is a prayer of hope to join deceased family members in Heaven

Prayer of hope to join deceased family in HeavenKOSLOSKI: It is never easy to say goodbye to a dearly beloved family member. Whether it is a parent, child, or sibling, death still has a sting that reaches into our heart.
The only way we can truly mourn the loss of a loved one is to recognize the beauty and glory reserved for all those who die in God’s grace. None of us knows what happens during those last moments of life on this earth, but we should entrust the soul of a loved one into the hands of God, trusting in his divine mercy.

Virginia priest in battle with bishop over blog blasting Church’s abuse response

Virginia priest in battle with bishop over blog blasting Church's abuse responseSANMARTIN: In Oct. 2008, Father Mark White started a blog under his name in the hopes that his preaching would reach those who don’t go to church. Ever since, he’s written about God, Kobe Bryant, and being pro-life, as well as sharing his homilies.

But he’s also been critical of the way some within the hierarchy of the Catholic Church addressed the clerical sex abuse crisis. The targets of his criticism have included Pope Francis and his own Diocese of Richmond in Virginia, which he’s called “opaque.”

White closed his blog in November 2019, after his bishop ordered him to do so. But after the COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of Masses with the faithful, he decided to resume blogging, as a way to stay in communication with his parishioners.

Even when the dark comes crashing through, when you need a friend to carry you, and when you’re broken on the ground — you will be found...

Corona Stories: You Will Be Found | Hour of Our Death: James Corden is my favorite late night television show host. His antics on The Late Late Show frequently find me laughing until I can’t breathe and fighting back tears. Corden’s recent socially-distanced episode, “Homefest: A Late Late Show Special,” was no different, but I found myself tearing for a reason I never expected.

In the Sullivan household, watching The Late Late Show is a family affair. At 10:00 pm we were parked on the couch for the special with our quarantine snacks of choice...

It’s ‘high time’ to start restoring public liturgical life, says German Cardinal Woelki

German Cardinal Woelki: It’s ‘High Time’ to Restore Public Masses: A German cardinal has said it is “high time” to restore public liturgies as the country begins to ease lockdown measures.

Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki of Cologne said that Masses with congregations should be permitted “as soon as possible” after German Chancellor Angela Merkel signaled that smaller shops and schools could reopen in the coming weeks.

Cardinal Woelki told CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner, April 17: "Without throwing these rules overboard, it is high time to make public services possible again. I am not thinking of a return to normality as we knew it before the coronavirus crisis. Of course, it is much too early for that.”

This Sunday: St. Thomas the Apostle understood the cost of mercy

This Sunday: Thomas Understood the Cost of Mercy | The Gregorian Institute at Benedictine CollegeHOOPES: St. Thomas the Apostle understood Divine Mercy, and he wanted to make sure that the Risen Jesus the Apostles claimed to see was the real Jesus.

To understand the power of this Sunday, Easter Sunday II, Year A, or Divine Mercy Sunday, we have to understand what Thomas did about the tragedy of sin in our life and the power only God has, to forgive sins.

Think of how shocking what Jesus did was.

Imagine a badly wounded man just back from a battle telling you, “This is how the victory is won. As the general sent me, so are you now sent.”

This is exactly what Jesus Christ does for the apostles. He comes back from the crucifixion still bearing his wounds and says “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’ And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.’”

It’s time to start bringing back the sacraments. Here are 8 places to start...

It’s Time to Bring Back the Sacraments — Here are 8 Ways to StartPOPE: We are more than four weeks into a disaster unprecedented in our lifetimes.

Of first concern are those who are gravely ill and those who have died. But we cannot forget many others who have lost their jobs or seen their businesses and livelihoods vanish. Particularly hard-hit are restaurants, theaters, the airline industry, sports and other aspects of the service and entertainment industry.

I am not a journalist of these things, but as a priest I hold many in my heart who suffer both physical and economic ruin and also those who have seen the cancellation of important life-passage moments such as weddings, baptisms, graduations, anniversaries and the like.

But above all, as a priest, I have great pain from our loss in the ability to celebrate the liturgy publicly and celebrate the sacraments freely and openly. The liturgy, the reception of sacraments and the spiritual well-being of our people are of supreme importance.

The present atmosphere is one of censorship, intimidation and some upside-down priorities

A Responsible Bishop | R. R. Reno | First ThingsRENO: On April 15, Peter Baldacchino, bishop of Las Cruces, New Mexico, became the first American bishop to lift a ban on public attendance at Mass. The New Mexico governor continues to ban gatherings of more than five people. Though Baldacchino objects to this limit, he is requiring priests to observe it. Priests are also authorized to resume weddings and funerals, again while conforming to state regulations.

Dr. Seuss meets Dr. Dre: Safe to say you’ve never heard ‘Fox in Sox’ read quite like this...

New Advent: Dr. Seuss meets Dr. Dre: Trust us when we say you’ve never heard ‘Fox in Sox’ read quite like this...: Wes Tank raps Dr. Seuss' classic children's book "Fox in Sox" over Dr. Dre's legendary hip hop beats for "What's the Difference" and "Let Me Ride" with much due respect to the flows and styles of Dr. Dre, Eminem, Xzibit and Snoop Dogg.

MacGyver meets Orville Redenbacher: How to turn two pop cans into a mini popcorn popper

New Advent: MacGyver meets Orville Redenbacher: How to turn two pop cans into a mini popcorn popper: A little complicated, but genius...

Lessons of hope from Helm’s Deep

Lessons of hope from Helm’s Deep - Voyage Comics & PublishingGAROFALO: After Jesus was arrested, tortured and crucified, most of his closest followers were terrified that the same thing would happen to them, so they hid behind locked doors (Jn 20:19). On Divine Mercy Sunday, like Jesus’ disciples, we too find ourselves behind locked doors. Most of us have been in our homes for weeks. We have gone without the Sacraments during the holiest time of the year. Many of us have lost our jobs and our businesses. Some of us are sick, and others have died...

No, atoms are not mostly empty space, and neither are you. Here’s the science of why...

You Are Not Mostly Empty Space: If you were to look at what your body is made of, at smaller and more fundamental levels, you'd find a whole miniature Universe of structure inside you. Your body is made of organs, which are in turn made of cells, which contain organelles, which are composed of molecules, which themselves are linked-up chains of individual atoms. Atoms exist on extremely tiny scales, just 1 ångström across, but they're made of even smaller constituents: protons, neutrons, and electrons.

When monks went undercover to steal relics

When Monks Went Undercover to Steal Relics | JSTOR Daily: In the twelfth century, Bishop Hugh of Lincoln visited the monks of the Abbey of Fecamp. They showed him their most prized relic, the hand of Mary Magdalene. Bending close, as if to kiss the relic, Hugh snapped off a piece with his teeth.

Hugh defended himself by saying that no relic was more holy than the Eucharist, which passed his lips every Sunday. The monks were probably more upset, however, by the fact that he pocketed the tidbit he’d bitten off.

What kind of fish did the Risen Christ feed the apostles?

What kind of fish did the Risen Christ feed the apostles?MAURO: In the Gospel of John, Chapter 21, the Resurrected Christ reveals himself to seven of the apostles, who had been out all night fishing to no avail. When the tired group sees Jesus on the shore, they do not recognize him at first, until he directs them to cast the net off the right side of the boat, where they ensnare a mighty haul of 153 “large” fish.
The accounts of the Gospel note that the apostles caught fish, and John goes so far as to give a very exact number, but he neglected to mention what kind of fish they enjoyed during breakfast with Jesus. It took a little sleuth work, but we’ve narrowed down the most probably main course for that early morning meal.

Beyond the social fallout, the Vatican faces spiritual and pastoral recovery too

Beyond social fallout, Vatican faces spiritual and pastoral recovery tooALLEN: Trying to get ahead of the flattening curve of the coronavirus pandemic, the Vatican announced Wednesday five working groups intended to face both immediate needs and the challenges of reconstruction once the crisis begins to ebb.

Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana, head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, said Wednesday the pope had asked him in March to set up a commission to coordinate the Church’s response...

Why do the old mainline Protestant churches get so much news ink?

Covering 'mainline' faith: Why do the old Protestant churches get so much news ink? — GetReligionMATTINGLY: Soon after I left the newsroom of the Rocky Mountain News to teach at Denver Seminary, in the early 1990s, a general-assignment reporter was asked to do a story about a trend in religion. It was something to do with prayer, if I recall, and editors wanted to run it on Easter.

The reporter went to three or four nearby churches in downtown...

Mercy. Christianity. These two words are practically interchangeable

Mercy. Christianity: The two words are practically interchangeableBRISCOE: As I write, a friar from my own Dominican community is in quarantine waiting to board the USNS Mercy. Commissioned in the Naval Reserves, this Dominican friar has been called up to serve as chaplain on board the 1,000-bed floating hospital.
One of our Manhattan priories has entirely re-envisioned the common life of the friars there in order to serve the sick. Taking extraordinary means to care for the souls in their charge, these brothers have made broad adaptations to our way of life in order to serve...

God’s enduring mercy, the ‘Great Hallel’ and the new coronavirus

God’s Enduring Mercy, the ‘Great Hallel’ and CoronavirusLANDRY: One of the most powerful Psalms to pray when we might be feeling abandoned by God is the “Great Hallel,” so called because it is an extraordinary hymn of praise for all God has done repeatedly to care for and rescue his people in need.

Psalm 136 is a 26-verse litany most remembered for the refrain after each verse, “for his mercy endures forever.” It praises God for his steadfast love shown in creation, in rescuing the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, leading them through the Red Sea and the desert...

This Benedictine football player broke his leg — and found God

Raven Football Player Broke His Leg and Found God | The Gregorian Institute at Benedictine College: I grew up Catholic, but it had become kind of in name only. It didn’t necessarily mean a whole lot. I went to play small-college football and had a big conversion at Benedictine College which is where I teach now. I never dreamed I would be where I am now.

Dr. Edward Sri taught there for nine years, and changed my life, so I wanted to do for others what he did for me. I had never heard a man proclaim the Gospel with conviction and confidence like he did. I learned more in a semester with him than in 10 years of Catholic education. That kind of confident conviction and proclamation of the Gospel was powerful.

5 years after his death, Cardinal George is still making a difference

The difference Cardinal George makes: Marking the late cardinal's anniversary of death - Our Sunday VisitorHEINLEIN: The fifth anniversary of the death of Cardinal Francis E. George, OMI, falls in the midst of a global pandemic. The effects of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 have been experienced both at home and abroad. In its wake, we are faced with new difficulties as well as new versions of pain and suffering, and we wait to see what effects these weeks of social distancing, disease and death will have not only on us personally but on ecclesial life in America. With the suspension of public Masses and the limitations placed on the celebration of sacraments, new forms of discord have arisen in the Church, revealing yet another side to our ideologically fueled battles over various doctrines and disciplines.

From the Depths of Our Hearts: Understand the priesthood, the Church and worship

From the Depths of Our Hearts: Understand the Priesthood, the Church and WorshipSOCKEY: About two months ago there was a minor firestorm in the Catholic media over a new book, co-written by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Cardinal Robert Sarah and published in France. There’s no need to recap the firestorm —it’s yesterday’s news and only a few keyword strokes away for those who somehow missed it the first time around. Today’s news is that From the Depths of Our Hearts is now available in English, and in this writer’s opinion, everyone (clergy and laity) who has been left feeling bruised and deflated by crises and controversies afflicting the priesthood ought to drop their regular reading and read this book now. It’s profound, but not at all difficult. At roughly 150 pages, it can be read in just a few sittings.

Caught on camera: Goose outsmarts stalking leopard by pretending he’s hurt

New Advent: Caught on camera: Goose outsmarts stalking leopard by pretending he’s hurt: Feigning injury to lure a predator away from chicks is a common behavior for these geese, but rarely caught on camera.

Actor Chris Pratt livestreams Easter Mass, tags Catholic priest: ‘Let us pray. He is risen’

Actor Chris Pratt Live-Streams Easter Mass, Tags Catholic Priest: "Let Us Pray. He is Risen" |: Whoa! Did you see this coming?

Actor Chris Pratt published a surprising Instagram story this Easter.

The Guardians of the Galaxy actor shared that he and wife Katherine Schwarzenegger spent their Easter Sunday quarantine cooking, Easter-egg hunting, and watching St. Monica Catholic Church‘s Easter Sunday Mass in Santa Monica, Cali.

He also tagged pastor Msgr. Lloyd Torgerson. Mass could also be heard in the video’s background.

What does Our Lord mean when He tells St. Mary Magdalene not to cling to him because He has not yet ascended?

What Does Jesus Mean When He Tells Mary Magdalene Not to Cling to Him Because He Has Not Yet Ascended? - Community in MissionPOPE: There is much to ponder and distinguish here.

First, we should set aside certain previous translations that rendered “Do not cling to me” as “Do not touch me.”

The latter sounds almost rude. The Greek expression Μή μου ἅπτου (Me mou haptou) is best rendered, “Do not go on clinging to me” because haptou is a verb in the middle voice.

Are IVF individuals fully human? Yes, they are. And that truth only reinforces the Church’s moral teaching...

Are IVF Individuals Fully Human?BRUGGER: The fact that life is created in a petri dish is irrelevant to the intrinsic status of the life itself. This is because our full humanity — our personhood — is not a function of our surroundings, is not an attribute that comes into existence as a result of external circumstances. It is intrinsic to us.

We may ask when this intrinsic status begins?

Since humans are unified individuals composed of a body and a soul, both that body and soul must come into existence; for each to do so, an independent but correlated condition must be fulfilled.

Health experts and political leaders have an important voice, but fear of death should not be the last word

Beginning to Pray: The Freedom to Worship GodLILLES: There is a great need, not only spiritual, but also social and psychological, for political leaders and government officials to restore religious to its rightful place in our society as soon as it may be done as safely as possible. Among the decisions that were made, some of the limits placed on the pastoral care of the sick need to be looked at. So too we should consider whether there are not responsible ways for the faithful to gather for worship - at least in limited ways.

Two months ago, PBS affiliates were not broadcasting Mass three times a day. Much has changed...

New Advent: Two months ago, PBS affiliates were not broadcasting Mass three times a day. Much has changed...: This particular broadcast was aired on KSMQ Public Television — the PBS affiliate for Austin/Rochester/Mason City in Minnesota.

Coronavirus has brought a halt to Catholic charities, right? Wrong...

ADOM :: Coping with COVID: With face-to-face service making up so much Catholic charitable work, those efforts would be stymied by such coronavirus-mandated restrictions as group-size limits and social distancing, right?

One might think so. But one would think wrong.

Outreach efforts continue in large part, but with creative twists, according to Catholic Charities affiliates and other church-run social service agencies.

In the Seattle Archdiocese, the first U.S. region where the COVID-19 pandemic struck, ingenuity has been the hallmark.

Erin Maguire, who does network building for Catholic Community Services of Western Washington, also supervises the “Prepares” program. Maguire has trained parish volunteers, called “companions,” who do a lot of “virtual visits” by phone.

3 reasons why you should be praying the Rosary more often these days

THE CORONA AND THE CORONAVIRUS: The Italian for "Rosary beads" is the "corona del rosario" or often, simply, the "corona". This little essay look briefly at why the Rosary is the best response to the coronavirus when we are deprived of the sacraments. Secondly, we will consider a glorious instance of what the Rosary can do for its devotees. We’re not talking about a famous example like the Battle of Lepanto here, where a Rosary crusade effectively turned the tide of history. Rather, we will look at a lesser known case where the Rosary has spectacularly preserved and protected its faithful devotees. Finally, we will make a suggestion as to how the Rosary might be prayed in response to the coronavirus. This will consist in an reflection created for reciting the first of the Joyful Mysteries in this time of pandemic (for reflections on the other mysteries, please write to us). If you’re not interested in the “why” and the “what”, then just go directly to the “how” in section three!