Year-end tax credit for schools a gift worth giving… and receiving

Christmas wishes for many children frequently involve things that are fun and flashy, cool and hip, or maybe loud and fast. And for adults, often the impractical (or what some might also call “re-gifts”).

Beloved Nativity set brings back memories, reminds us to trust

The Child Jesus enters our broken, fallen world with His purity and innocence and fragility. He is born in the most humble of circumstances, in a temporary shelter, among sheep and oxen, and laid in a manger. He shed His first drop of blood for us eight days later at His circumcision, a foretelling of the blood that would flow from the terrible wounds of crucifixion.

Pope Francis’ Game Plan; Part One: The Gospel of Joy

Since his election on March 13 of this year, he has caught the attention of the world. Even non-believers and non-practicing Catholics are paying attention. Pope Francis surprises and inspires, even as he challenges us to love the poor and in them to meet Jesus anew.

Jesus, the King who sets us free

“¡Viva Cristo Rey!” 86 years ago, November 23, 1927, these words rang forth in Mexico City as a young man was being executed by a firing squad.

As economic forecast improves, let us not forget to lift up the working poor

Experts predict that Arizona’s economy will grow at a steady, moderate pace throughout 2014 as it continues to grind its way through the lingering effects of the Great Recession. It is imperative we not leave anyone, particularly the working poor, behind.

New Evangelization in the Americas – Text of Talk Given by Bishop Olmsted

“It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.” These words of Charles Dickens could easily be applied to the present situation that the Church faces in the American continent when she proclaims the Good News of Jesus Christ about marriage, family and the culture of life.

Giving thanks in the midst of senseless tragedy

When I first heard about what happened to Albert Quihuis, 90, and his wife, Sophia, 87, my initial reaction was outrage.

Catholic and American? Evangelizing through beauty; final in a seven-part series

If beauty has the power to lead us to God, then, why have so many people stopped believing in it?

Catholic and American? Key ways to evangelize today’s culture; part six in a series

The common good is built by means of charity. While it is true that the government has a role to play in this endeavor, it is incapable of bringing about human flourishing on its own, since it cannot move people to act with charity.

Pope: Our first calling is to love, embrace all people

You know those emails that insist you “must” click on this link, view that video or delve into such-and-such a blog? Honestly, I end up deleting most of them. It’s just too much. Every now and then though — perhaps at my guardian angel’s prompting — I click.