Families

Five ways to be a great explorer

Moving out of our comfort zones is never easy, but imagine the amazing things we could discover if we let ourselves be explorers. In the spirit of Christopher Columbus, I offer you five ways to be a great explorer.
Walking the ‘Walk with Francis’

I know we all have busy lives, so the goal here is to do something simple and yet powerful, much like Francis himself. I encourage you to consider a pledge that is: 1) simple – it’s easy to do; 2) measurable – you can do it every day, or between now and the Pope’s arrival, etc.; and 3) flexible – you can do whatever speaks to you.
As election campaign heats up, comedian Mark Russell returning to Ford’s Theatre

Retirement didn’t sit well with Mark Russell. Or rather, the political satirist got bored of sitting, reading books and taking trips. Retirement, says Russell, was “awful.”
5 reasons why change is good

This summer I was transferred from one parish to another. I loved my old parish and was sad to go, but I was also excited about the challenge of a new place. In between those two was one dreaded thing – moving! Although it was a hassle to pack up my life and unpack it again the next day, actually I really am grateful for the experience. To explain why, I offer you my five reasons why change is good.
Encyclical offers practical tips for parishes, individuals to help the environment

Pope Francis’ encyclical “Laudato Sí, on Care for Our Common Home” is a call for global action as well as an appeal for deep inner conversion.
‘Newsies’ actor says Catholic faith is constant in his life as he travels the country

As he tours the United States and Canada playing the part of Romeo in the musical, “Newsies,” singer-dancer Nico DeJesus says no matter what city he is in, he feels at home once he finds a church in which to attend Mass.
5 ways to say “I do” again and again

Marriage vows are not just meant for the wedding day but for all the days of your life. So I offer you five ways to say “I do” again and again.
Tips for picture perfect wedding photos and a stress-free day

Many of the keys to having a successful wedding day, to getting wedding photos you truly love, and to enjoying the celebration of your marriage to the fullest are the same. Here are a few tips for ensuring that the photography at your wedding turns out as wonderful as the day itself.
World Youth Day 2016 in Poland will offer ‘Message of Mercy’

A new airport, improved road and rail links, a fleet of dream buses and “Youth Bible” are among features projected for the Catholic Church’s 14th international celebration of World Youth Day in Krakow, Poland, in 2016.
Men encouraged to emulate example of Jesus’s love and sacrifice

Men should look to Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross for a clear image of what it means to be a man in today’s society, participants at a Catholic men’s conference were told March 14.
Lansbury raises the roof and spirits in ‘Blithe Spirit’

Noel Coward’s “Blithe Spirit” – now on stage at the National Theatre – is sharp-witted, fast-paced drawing room farce that still manages to offer a satisfying evening of theater more than 70 years after it was first staged. Combine the well-written material with the outstanding performance of legendary Angela Lansbury and this production, which has played to sold out audiences on both sides of the Atlantic, is near perfection.
Pope plans to canonize St. Therese’s parents during family synod

Pope Francis is expected to canonize Blessed Louis and Zelie Martin, the parents of St. Therese of Lisieux, during the world Synod of Bishops on the family in October.
Oscar’s got nothing on us: The real best movies, family films of 2014

The year just past saw the release of a number of films whose celebrated cinematic quality was not matched by moral merit.
Visible Sign: The Biblical Vision of the Family

We live in a time of great confusion about marriage and family life. The eternal plan of the Judeo-Christian vision of the family has been rejected and has been reduced to mere personal contracts. In our culture, marriage and having (or not having) children are viewed as one choice among many for self-fulfillment. When situations or desires change, couples are free to opt out since they are the ones to determine the structure and meaning of marriage and family.
‘In the Back Pew’ Catholic family blog: Never alone on the Lenten journey

It takes a lot of courage to enter into Lent, and then to be mindful that one has done so. I suspect it is a reason that many Catholics give up things like chocolate or Diet Coke; things that had become ubiquitous but required parts of our everyday life. Lent is designed to make our relationship with God the ubiquitous but required part of our lives. Even on day one, I hear friends say, “I really miss chocolate.” and I understand; but what we’re supposed to get from this journey, is to the point of recognizing, we should miss God even more than we miss our daily indulgences.

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