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# Catholic Insight

Inspired by Truth, Enlightening Minds

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## Posts

- [Is Public Education Salvageable?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/04/is-public-education-salvageable-a-reply-to-julie-douglas/) - I appreciate Mrs. Julie Douglas’ reflection on what she experienced as beneficial in the (French) publicly funded Catholic school system, as well as her exhortation for good people to stay in the system to do what good they might therein. She also raises significant points about the diminution in parish life and its effectiveness, not
- [True, North, Strong... and Free? Not Quite...](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/06/true-north-strong-and-free-not-quite/) - The headline today declares, Federal memo considers legal action against social media posting false info admitting that it is not (yet) clear what action 'federal lawyers' would take. Hmm. It goes on: A 35-page memo to Federal Industry Minister Mélanie Joly contemplates “legal action” against Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other social media it suspects of
- [Maria Goretti, Martyr for Chastity](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/06/maria-goretti-and-the-grace-of-god/) - It was a hot, humid and sweltering July 6th in the year of our Lord 1902, one hundred and twenty four years ago, in a small farming town in the fetid area outside of Rome, when a young girl - one could scarcely call her a woman, at twelve years old - was viciously stabbed
- [Message of John Paul II to the Bishop of Albano for the Centenary of the Death of St. Maria Goretti](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/06/message-john-paul-ii-bishop-albano-centenary-death-st-maria-goretti/) - To my Venerable Brother Bishop Agostino Vallini of Albano 1. A hundred years ago, on 6 July 1902, Maria Goretti died in the hospital at Nettuno, brutally stabbed the day before in the little village of Le Ferriere, in the Pontine Marshes. Her spiritual life, the strength of her faith, her ability to forgive her
- [Respondeo: Why Does the SSPX Need Bishops?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/04/respondeo-why-does-the-sspx-need-bishops/) - The following query was sent along, and we will answer each question briefly: Have you addressed the reasons why SSPX feels a need to appoint bishops in the first place? I can't think of any reason why a religious order should not be satisfied with a system of superiors, priors, etc. and instead feel that
- [SSPX: Of Rubicons and Hammers](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/02/sspx-rubicons-and-hammers/) - Well, the Rubicon has been crossed, and the hammer dropped. Refusing the appeal by Pope Leo not to go through with the episcopal consecrations, the SSPX ordained four new bishops yesterday. Rome followed up with a decree declaring that this is an act of formal schism, excommunicating the consecrating and consecrated bishops. This penalty also
- [The Masculine Hope and Joy of Pier Giorgio Frassati](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/04/the-masculine-hope-and-joy-of-peir-giorgio-frassati/) - One of the more joyful and attractive saints of modern times died on this day in 1925 at the youthful age of 24, Pier Giorgio Frassati, a handsome, athletic, talented Italian from an aristocratic family. He was struck down by the poliomyelitis he had contracted from his (mainly hidden) work with the poor, to whom
- [Semiquincentennial Independence Day - 250 and Counting](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/04/independence-day-and-elizabeth-of-portugal/) - A joyous Independence Day to all our American readers - this marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America back in 1776. This marks the victory of the then-colony's struggle for independence from Britain and the monarchy in the American revolution. They were divided then, and are divided now. There
- [Elizabeth of Portugal and Antoine Daniel](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/04/elizabeth-of-portugal-and-antoine-daniel/) - Elizabeth of Portugal (+1336) was of royal descent, the great-niece of the ‘other’ Saint Elizabeth, of Hungary. Like her great-aunt, she was a queen, wife, mother, widow, peacemaker and Third Order Franciscan. After her husband’s death, she retired to an hidden life of prayer and penitence in a convent, feeding the poor and tending the
- [Fourteenth Sunday: Following Christ, Meek and Humble of Heart](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/05/fourteenth-sunday-following-christ-meek-and-humble-of-heart/) - ‘Come to me all you that are weary and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light’ (Mt. 11:29-30).
- [Saint Anthony Zaccaria](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/05/saint-anthonoy-zaccarias-barnabites/) - Saint Anthony Zaccaria (+1539), from noble lineage in late-renaissance Italy, was born in Rome in 1502, on the cusp of the Protestant revolt against the Catholic Church. But the mayhem at this point was mostly in far-off northern Europe, and did not impact Anthony’s life at first. He studied medicine, practising for three years, after which
- [Our Lady Seat of Wisdom and of Combermere](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/08/our-lady-seat-of-wisdom-and-of-combermere/) - A blessed ‘feast’ of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom, Sedes Sapientiae. This ancient and venerable title of the Virgin Mary is celebrated on June 8th as the Chora tou Achoretou, the ‘container of the uncontainable’, the new ‘ark of the covenant’, the ‘chosen shrine’, as the sixth century hymn by Venantius Fortunatus has it, ‘in which
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/04/49640/) - You ask me whether I am in good spirits. How could I not be so? As long as Faith gives me strength I will always be joyful. Sadness ought to be banished from Catholic souls... the purpose for which we have been created shows us the path; even if strewn with many thorns, it is
- [Thomas the Apostle - Believing without Seeing](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/03/thomas-not-doubting-but-faithful/) - Saint Thomas, the Apostle, is called 'Didymus', the 'twin', perhaps, as some surmised, because he looked a lot like Christ. Whether that be true, he's not like the Saviour in also being called 'the Doubter', for, missing on that 'first day of the week', he did not believe the other Apostles when they claimed that
- [Faith and Frying Pans: What My School Gave Me that My Parish Didn't](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/01/faith-and-frying-pans-what-my-school-gave-me-that-my-parish-didnt/) - Editor's Note: Church, State, and Education The history of Canada's formation and endurance as a nation-state is a unique and engaging blend of national, religious, linguistic, and cultural differences, distinctions, struggles, and sometimes less than enthusiastic tolerance. This is perhaps more evident in the sphere of compulsory education than any other. Ontario, for example, hosts four public
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/03/45267/) - Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. (John 20:29)
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Thomas the Apostle](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/03/benedict-xvi-thomas-twin/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 27 September 2006 Thomas the twin Dear Brothers and Sisters, Continuing our encounters with the Twelve Apostles chosen directly by Jesus, today we will focus our attention on Thomas. Ever present in the four lists compiled by the New Testament, in the first three Gospels he is
- [Saint Bernardino Realino and the Hidden Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/02/saint-bernardino-realino-and-the-hidden-life/) - Today's Saint Bernardino Realino (1530 - 1616) demonstrates that a hidden life of doing one's duty, day in and day out, leads to great holiness. After a brief career in law, Bernardino joined the fledgling Jesuits, and spent his entire life in southern Italy, preaching missions, hearing confessions and doing whatever other sacramental or other
- [Canada's Original, and Very Catholic, National Anthem](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/01/canadas-original-and-very-catholic-national-anthem/) - In the glow of Canada-Dominion Day, here is the original version of O, Canada, which was written in French, in Quebec – Canada was French before she adopted English as as second language – for the 1880 Saint Jean-Baptiste Day ceremony, commissioned by the Lieutenant-Governor, Théodore Robitaille, with music by Sir Rudolphe-Basile Routhier, and original
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/01/49583/) - Leave the beaten track behind occasionally and dive into the woods. Every time you do you will be certain to find something you have never seen before. (Alexander Graham Bell, +1922)
- [Junipero Serra and Catholic California](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/01/junipero-serra-and-catholic-california/) - (July 1st is the traditional feast of Saint Junipero Serra, the great missionary founder of California, which, believe it or not, was once fully and vibrantly Catholic, as the link to the biography of our saint demonstrates in no uncertain terms. Here is a re-post of my thoughts from a few weeks ago, after my
- [Happy Canada's Dominion Day!](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/01/happy-canadas-dominion-day/) - This is Canada's to all our readers, on which we celebrate the official founding of ‘Canada’ as a (mostly) self-governing part of the British Commonwealth. Canada, as readers may know from what once passed as Canadian history in high schools, that Canada as a 'country' officially began with the signing into effect of the British-North
- [Feast and Litany of the Precious Blood](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/07/01/litany-of-the-precious-blood/) - A blessed feast of the Precious Blood! This devotion was placed into the calendar, and the feast instituted by Pope Pius IX in 1849. Even if it is no longer on the public calendar since the revisions of 1969 (but still in the usus antiquior), we can commemorate in our own way. And just as
- [Pope Leo Appeals to the SSPX](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/30/pope-leo-appeals-to-the-sspx/) - Pope Leo XIV has penned a heartfelt appeal to the SSPX, addressed to their superior, Father Davide Pagliari, not to go through with the illicit episcopal consecrations set for tomorrow, July 1st. It is short and to the point - therein he asks: In this spirit, and filled with Christian affection, I plead with you and
- [The Protomartyrs of Rome](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/30/the-protomartyrs-and-the-anti-christ/) - The blood of martyrs is the seed of the Church - Tertullian (+240 A.D.) The first, or proto-, martyrs of the Church of Rome commemorate the untold number of Christians put to death under the reign of Nero, in the very first days of the Church, when to be a Christian meant more or less
- [Palestrina's Tu Es Petrus](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/29/palestrinas-tu-es-petrus-2/) - In honour of today's Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, here is Palestrina's motet Tu Es Petrus, based on Matthew's 16:18-19. The work was first published in 1572, at the height of the conflict between Catholics and Protestants - the division between them centred on the papacy, and the authority of the successor of Peter.
- [Pope Benedict and Saints Peter and Paul](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/29/solemnities-of-saints-peter-and-paul/) - FEAST OF SAINTS PETER AND PAUL HOLY MASS FOR THE IMPOSITION OF THE SACRED PALLIUM ON METROPOLITAN ARCHBISHOPS HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI Vatican Basilica Friday, 29 June 2012 Your Eminences, Brother Bishops and Priests, Dear Brothers and Sisters, We are gathered around the altar for our solemn celebration of Saints Peter and
- [Pope Leo XIV and the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/29/pope-leo-xiv-and-the-solemnity-of-saints-peter-and-paul/) - PAPAL MASS HOMILY OF POPE LEO XIV St Peter's Basilica Monday, 29 June 2026 [Multimedia] ________________________________________ Dear brothers and sisters, Today, in a single Solemnity, we commemorate Saints Peter and Paul, the patron saints of the city and Diocese of Rome. One was chosen by Jesus as shepherd of his flock, and the other as
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/29/49552/) - There is one day for the passion of two apostles. But these two also were as one; although they suffered on different days, they were as one. Peter went first, Paul followed. We are celebrating a feast day, consecrated for us by the blood of the apostles. Let us love their faith, their lives, their
- [Saint Peter and Paul's and the Eschatological Battle](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/29/peter-and-paul-against-antichrist/) - A blessed solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul! They were comites, as they say in Latin, companions in life, and in death, both martyred under the diabolical tyrant Nero sometime between 64 and 68 Anno Domini. Counting the years from Our Lord's birth did not become a thing until Dionysius Exiguus began the practice in Scythia
- [Thirteenth Sunday: Accipe Crucem Tuam!](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/28/thirteenth-sunday-accipe-crucem-tuam/) - ‘Whoever does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me’ (Mt. 10:38). ⧾ The whole content of the gospel at least as it concerns us individually, is given to us by Our Lord today: ‘Whoever does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me’ (Mt.
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/28/49543/) - For where the Church is, there is the Spirit of God; and where the Spirit of God is, there is the Church and every kind of grace (Saint Irenaeus of Lyons, +202-203)
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Irenaeus of Lyons](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/28/saint-irenaeus-of-lyons/) - (Saint Irenaeus of Lyons, whose feast we celebrate on this 28th of June, if it were not suppressed this year by Sunday, just before Saints Peter and Paul, was declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Francis in 2022, bringing their exalted number at that point to 37. Editor) BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE St
- [Blesseds Vasyl Velykchovskyand Nykyta Budka: Hidden Ukrainian and Canadian Heroes](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/27/blesseds-vasyl-and-nykyta/) - The subversive doctrines of atheistic communism and socialism have infected nations, institutions, media, education, and souls, throughout the world. Make no mistake, as Pius XI declared in Divini Redemptoris (1937) that communism and socialism are by their very nature not only atheistic, but anti-God, and anti-Church, indeed, the very religions of anti-Christ. As he put
- [Digital Deception: Absolute surveillance, absolute servility](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/21/49455/) - Editor’s note: The implementation of compulsory Digitial Identification programs poses significant questions for many citizens, particularly when such programs are mandated by governments. The Sri Lankan proposal criticized below serves as a sobering case study for citizens of many countries. Catholics are called to consider such programs in light of the principles and values of
- [The Definitely Not Complacent Flannery O'Connor](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/26/the-definitely-not-complacent-flannery-oconnor/) - I recently reread Daniel Deronda, by George Eliot. What does that have to do with Flannery O’Connor, you might ask? Well, bear with me. There is a part near the end of the book (spoiler alert!), where Daniel finds out his parentage. He finds out his grandfather was a fiery Jewish scholar. Although his grandfather
- [Luther, Lefebvre and the Charism of Reform](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/26/luther-lefebvre-and-reform/) - Ecclesia semper reformanda est (attributed to Saint Augustine) History doesn't repeat itself...it merely rhymes (some say Mark Twain, but definitely Theodor Reik) In light of the the looming episcopal consecrations of the SSPX, in light of the recent Solemnity of the Sacred Heart, I've been pondering the Mystical Body of Christ. We should take a step back
- [A New 'Ecclesia Dei'?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/27/a-new-eccelsia-dei/) - As the Consistory of Cardinals begins, there is apparently nothing on the official agenda on the 'elephant in the room', the looming consecration of bishops by the SSPX on July 1st. Pope Leo has urged the cardinals to 'speak frankly', so Cardinal Gerhard Müller, former head of the CDF (now DDF) did, exhorting that Rome
- [Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Saint Cyril of Alexandria](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/27/saint-cyrils-defense-of-mother-and-son/) - Today is the traditional feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, even if it be muted this year due to the Sacred Heart - signified in one of the most famous ‘icons’ of the Virgin Mother, which, by tradition – legend, some might say – goes back to Saint Luke himself, who besides being a
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Cyril of Alexandria, Defender of the Theotokos](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/27/pope-benedict-and-saint-cyril-of-alexandria-defender-of-the-theotokos/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 3 October 2007 Saint Cyril of Alexandria Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today too, continuing our journey following the traces left by the Fathers of the Church, we meet an important figure: St Cyril of Alexandria. Linked to the Christological controversy which led to the Council of
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/26/49493/) - Understand this well: there is something holy, something divine hidden in the most ordinary situations, and it is up to each one of you to discover it. (Saint Josemaria Escriva, +1975)
- [Saints John and Paul - and Josemaria](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/26/john-paul-and-josemaria/) - We usually try to commemorate the saints in the current, public liturgical calendar, but now and again, we will mention those more hidden, even if they have a long and venerable history of being honoured in the Church, or are of particular significance for our era. Such are Saints John and Paul, two martyrs of
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/24/45109/) - No one can receive anything except what is given him from heaven. You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him. He who has the bride is the bridegroom; the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's
- [The I-Phone and Fertility](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/23/i-phone-and-fertility/) - It has been verified statistically - not quite the same thing as being truly 'verified' - that the introduction of the i-phone significantly decreased fertility amongst women. As the abstract for the study says: Taken together, these cohort effects imply that the diffusion of the iPhone deepened the decline in births among women under 30
- [The Liminal and Luminous Birth of John the Baptist](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/24/john-the-liminal-and-luminous-baptist/) - We celebrate the birthdays of three ‘saints’ in our liturgical calendar: Christ Himself, the Son of God, of course, on Christmas Day; His Mother, the Virgin Mary, on September 8th; and, today, Saint John, called ‘the Baptist’, to whom was given the role as the last, greatest of the Prophets of the Messiah: Behold, the
- [Pope Benedict and the Birth of the Baptist](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/24/40699-2/) - BENEDICT XVI ANGELUS St. Peter's Square Sunday, 24 June 2012 Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, 24 June, we are celebrating the Solemnity of St John the Baptist. He is the only saint — with the exception of the Virgin Mary — whose birth the liturgy celebrates and it does so because it is closely connected
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/22/49463/) - It is possible to live for the next life and still be merry in this (Saint Thomas More, +1535)
- [Saint Paulinus of Nola](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/22/paulinus-of-nola/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 12 December 2007 Saint Paulinus of Nola Dear Brothers and Sisters, The Father of the Church to whom we turn our attention today is St Paulinus of Nola. Paulinus, a contemporary of St Augustine to whom he was bound by a firm friendship, exercised his ministry
- [Pope Benedict, Thomas More and the Role of the Church](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/22/pope-benedict-more-and-the-role-of-the-church/) - (The following is an excerpt from an address give by Pope Benedict XVI in Westminster Hall on September 17, 2010, the feast of Saint Robert Bellarmine, upon his Holiness' pilgrimage to England) In particular, I recall the figure of Saint Thomas More, the great English scholar and statesman, who is admired by believers and non-believers
- [Saints John Fisher and Thomas More: Men for Our Times](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/22/the-lessons-of-fisher-and-more/) - Two glorious martyrs of the 'Reformation' are celebrated today: Saint Thomas More, husband, father, lawyer, sometime chancellor of England, was martyred in 1535 soon after his compatriot, Saint John Fisher, Bishop of Rochester and cardinal of the Church. Thomas More at first tried his vocation with the London Carthusians, but discerned that was not his
- [Sunday Musical Offering: Anima Christi by Father Frisina](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/21/sunday-musical-offering-anima-christi-by-father-frisina/) - The Anima Christi is an ancient prayer of devotion to the humanity of Christ, especially in His Passion. It has been attributed to Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491 - 1556), as it appears in his Spiritual Exercises, but likely predates that famous work, composed perhaps the 14th century, maybe by the Avignon Pope, John XXII
- [Twelfth Sunday and Trusting in God to the End](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/21/twelfth-sunday-remaining-faithful-to-the-end/) - Fear no one….Everyone therefore who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father in heaven (Mt. 10: 26, 32). Our Lord addresses these words to us as He did to His Apostles; and we need these words of encouragement and reassurance as we contend with the challenges of remaining faithful to the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/21/49437/) - Trust the past to God's mercy, the present to God's love, and the future to God's providence. (Saint Augustine Of Hippo, +430_
- [Saint Aloysius Gonzaga and the Summer’s Solstice](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/21/aloysius-and-summers-light/) - On this 21st day of June, we remember Saint Aloysius Gonzaga (+ 1591), a Jesuit scholastic - which is to say, a seminarian - who died at what we might consider the too-young age of 23 (just short of the saintly '24 club', but an honorary member) while solicitously caring for victims of the plague
- [Saint Germaine Cousin - A True Cinderella Story](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/15/saint-germaine-cousin-a-catholic-cinderella/) - Not many Catholics today know of Germaine Cousin (+1601), which is likely how the saint would have liked it. Amare nesciri, as Saint Philip, her Italian near-contemporary, would have said. For Germaine lived an obscure, solitary life, tending sheep in the fields, ‘hidden with God’ - but like all such holy and hidden lives, she
- [A Tale of Three Weddings](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/17/a-tale-of-three-weddings-and-building-on-rock/) - I was cycling through a city park about a month ago, quite a lovely one, with a small lake, and pavilions, in one of which I noticed a mother and daughter placing a number – say thirty or so – small candles on the floor. I went over, and noticed they were the fake-electric kind,
- [Arthur Brooks and the Architecture of Meaning in the Christian Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/17/arthur-brooks-and-the-architecture-of-meaning-in-the-christian-life/) - “Your life does have meaning, and you can find it.” – The Meaning of Your Life. At a time when many young adults are fixated on professional growth and success, there is a parallel sense of emptiness that cannot be adequately understood or addressed. Fortunately, Arthur Brooks’ most recent book, The Meaning of Your Life,
- [Confirmation: What I could not Control](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/15/confirmation-what-i-could-not-control/) - The weeks leading up to my confirmation were extremely difficult. I had suddenly developed crippling anxiety. It began at my local gym, where after full, back-intensive workout I found myself nearly fainting after bending at the water fountain. My vision became tunneled, I fell back into the wall behind me, and my heart began to
- [Romuald’s Erimetical Reform](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/19/romuald-the-reformer/) - Saint Romuald (+June 19, 1025/27) was a tenth-century monk, founder of the strict Camaldolese Order, named after their primary benefactor, Maldoli, who, impressed by the saint's way of life, donated the land on which they built their first monastery (hence, campo-maldoli - the 'field of Maldoli'). But Romuauld only arrived at the ‘narrow path’ after
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/15/49380/) - To be taken with love for a soul, God does not look on its greatness, but the greatness of its humility (St John of the Cross, +1591)
- [Corpus Christi and the Sacred Heart](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/12/corpus-christi-and-the-sacred-heart/) - The core doctrine of Catholicism teaches that the bread and wine at Mass become Christ, His body, blood, soul, and divinity. This truth is celebrated every Sunday. However, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ offers special focus. The feast, originating in the 13th century, was inspired by the visions of
- [A Wellspring of Graces: Rediscovered off the Beaten Path in Poland](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/13/a-wellspring-of-graces-rediscovered-off-the-beaten-path-in-poland/) - In this month dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, celebrated on June 12, Bishop Piotr Sawczuk of the Diocese of Drohiczyn elevated the Church of St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr, in Milejczyce to the status of the Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus the Good Shepherd. The ceremony, attended by thousands of people—including
- [Lessons of a Young Nun on the Sacred Heart of Jesus](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/12/lessons-of-a-young-nun-on-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/) - Today is not just any Friday. This Friday, Catholics around the world are celebrating the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Here’s the story of the quiet little nun from France whose faith and devotion we credit for this special day. Plus some takeaways for Catholics who want to grow closer to Jesus through
- [Pope Benedict and Anthony of Padua](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/13/pope-benedict-and-anthony-of-padua/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 10 February 2010 Saint Anthony of Padua Dear Brothers and Sisters, Two weeks ago I presented St Francis of Assisi. This morning I would like to speak of another saint who belonged to the first generation of the Friars Minor: Anthony of Padua, or of Lisbon, as
- [Mary's Immaculate and Maternal Heart](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/13/marys-immaculate-heart/) - On the Saturday after the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Catholic Church celebrates the Immaculate Heart of His Mother, Mary, the one from whom He took his flesh – hence, their hearts are joined not only mystically, but physically, as mother and son - they share the same DNA. And what greater
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/13/49361/) - Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. (Luke 2:19)
- [Pope Saint John Paul II's Consecration of the World to the Immaculate Heart](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/13/consecration-of-pope-john-paul-ii-to-the-immaculate-heart/) - WE ENTRUST, O MARY, AND CONSECRATE THE WHOLE WORLD TO YOUR IMMACULATE HEART! On Thursday, 13 May 1982, after the concelebrated Mass in Fatima, Pope John Paul II made the following act of consecration of the modern world to Our Lady of Fatima. 1. "We have recourse to your protection, holy Mother of God." As
- [A Brief History of Devotion to the Sacred Heart and Prayer for Priests](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/12/the-sacred-heart-of-the-christ/) - A blessed Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, to all our readers, a feast which has its origins in the early Middle Ages, when a renewed emphasis upon Christ’s humanity dawned upon the devotional world, led by saints such as Bernard of Clairvaux and Francis of Assisi, on into the visions devotio moderna of
- [Pope Benedict and the Sacred Heart](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/12/pope-benedict-and-the-sacred-heart/) - SOLEMNITY OF THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS OPENING OF THE YEAR FOR PRIESTS ON THE 150th ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF SAINT JOHN MARY VIANNEY HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI Saint Peter’s Basilica Friday, 19 June 2009 Dear Brothers and Sisters, In a little while we shall sing in the antiphon to the Magnificat: “The Lord
- [Homily of Pope John Paul II on the Sacred Heart on His Journey to Canada](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/12/homily-of-pope-john-paul-ii-on-the-sacred-heart-on-his-journey-to-canada/) - (This may bring back memories for some readers, of the apostolic visit of the great Pope from a by-gone era. Canada of 1984 was a very different place than it is now...But we may learn from the past, and, more to the point, from the Truth that is eternal, abiding in the Sacred Heart of
- [Saint Barnabas: A Good Man](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/11/saint-barnabas-and-keeping-up-the-good-fight/) - It is fitting that we celebrate the Apostle Barnabas, the ‘son of consolation’, or the ‘son of encouragement’, in this season of the Holy Spirit. For the Hebraic terminus of his name, the navi (consolation, or even prophet) after the bar (son) is one of the titles of the Third Person of the Trinity, the consoler, advocate and guide.
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Barnabas](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/11/44673/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Wednesday, 31 January 2007 Barnabas, Silas (also called Silvanus), and Apollos Dear Brothers and Sisters, Continuing our journey among the protagonists who were the first to spread Christianity, today let us turn our attention to some of St Paul's other collaborators. We must recognize that the Apostle is an eloquent
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/10/49314/) - Only love can penetrate the heart of God. The deeper one enters into His Heart, the more deeply one is drawn into the pain of the world—and into His redemptive love (Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, +1942)
- [From Temple to Body: The Mystery of Christ and His Church](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/10/from-temple-to-body-the-mystery-of-christ-and-his-church/) - The Holy Catholic Church is a mystery of faith, a reality both visible and spiritual, founded by Jesus Christ and handed down through the apostles. This truth was safeguarded in the early councils of the Church, such as the First Council of Nicaea, convened in 325 AD under Constantine the Great to clarify and defend
- [Saint Columbkille: An Irishman Brings Catholicism to Scotland](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/09/an-irish-monk-in-scotland-saint-columbkille/) - If you will forgive a little parochialism, today is the feast of Saint Columbkille (521-597), also called Columba, who is not celebrated in the universal calendar, but happens to be the patron my own diocese. He also hails originally from where my father's family is from in Ireland, Donegal on the wild west coast of
- [Ephraim's Mission of Beauty](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/09/ephraims-mission-of-beauty/) - In the Church universal, we celebrate the life of Saint Ephraim, often called the 'Syrian', who is also venerated amongst the Orthodox (on January 28th), and whose pre-Vatican II date was June 18th. Ephraim was a deacon, theologian, mystic, exegete, hymnographer - his extant hymns alone number over 400, which puts him up there with
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Ephraim the Deacon](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/09/pope-benedict-and-ephraim/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 28 November 2007 Saint Ephrem Dear Brothers and Sisters, Common opinion today supposes Christianity to be a European religion which subsequently exported the culture of this Continent to other countries. But the reality is far more complex since the roots of the Christian religion are found
- [John Paul II and Corpus Christi](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/07/john-paul-ii-and-corpus-christi/) - Here is the Corpus Christi homily of Pope Saint John Paul II from 2002. I was in Rome that year, my first-ever visit to the Eternal City (I've since returned twice). I was obliviously backpacking around, not knowing much, but knew it was Corpus Christi. Wandering the streets, I tried to find the Pope, whom
- [Ave Verum - William Byrd's Secret Treasure](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/07/ave-verum-william-byrds-secret-treasure/) - On this Solemnity of Corpus Christi here in Canada, here is William Byrd's rendition of the Ave Verum, composed in the first years of the 17th century, published in 1605, during the time of Shakespeare and the beginning of the Elizabethan persecutions against the Holy Eucharist - there is evidence he intended his Eucharistic motets
- [Lessons from My Fair Lady](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/03/lessons-from-my-fair-lady/) - My Fair Lady is one of my darling bride’s favorite plays. I, on the other hand, am more a fan of the original play script Pygmallion, by George Bernard Shaw. On May 20, Eliza Doolittle Day Is celebrated, reminding us of a Cockney flower girl inside her own imagination; in Alan Jay Lerner’s lyric from
- [June is for the Sacred Heart of Jesus](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/05/june-is-for-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/) - God sent his only begotten son into the world, fully human and fully divine, possessing a fully human heart with valves and ventricles just like yours and mine. This heart, created by God, has written on it a deep desire to be in communion with Him. That’s the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/07/49286/) - O precious and wonderful banquet, that brings us salvation and contains all sweetness! (Saint Thomas Aquinas. +1274)
- [Corpus Christi and the Poetry of Thomas Aquinas](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/07/thomas-aquinas-and-corpus-christi/) - (In Canada, the Solemnity is transferred to the next Sunday. In the universal Church, and various traditional rites and communities, it is celebrated on the proper day, the Thursday after Trinity Sunday. So here be some thoughts for this Solemnity, whenever you celebrate.) A blessed and grace-filled solemnity of Corpus Christi to one and all, at
- [Corpus Christi: The Gift of the Holy Eucharist](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/07/corpus-christi-the-gift-of-the-holy-eucharist/) - (Here in Canada, Corpus Christi is transferred to the following Sunday, even if, as mentioned, the traditional day is the Thursday after Pentecost. We were a bit delayed in posting this previous but classic post. Here are Father Marco Testa’s timeless words from our archives - we can celebrate this Solemnity all week, and throughout
- [Holy Norbert and Heroic Normandy](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/06/holy-norbert-and-heroic-normandy/) - Saint Norbert (+1134) of Xanten was a zealous bishop and founder, who was at the forefront of the ecclesial reform named after Pope Gregory VII, a pope often referred to by his previous name, dragging the Church out of the worst scandals of the 'dark ages'. Norbert was born in 1075, ten years before the
- [Bill C-9 and Fighting the Good Fight of the Faith](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/05/bill-c-9-and-fighting-the-good-fight-of-the-faith/) - With the passage of Bill C-9 by the Senate yesterday, we're now closer than ever here in Canada to the dystopias predicted by Orwell's 1984 and Bradbury' Fahrenheit 451, where books are banned and burned - at least, books of a certain sort. And not just books, but even opinions contained within or inspired by
- [Saint Boniface: Laying the Axe to the Root of Evil](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/05/boniface-laying-the-axe-to-the-root-of-evil/) - Saint Boniface, bishop, missionary and martyr was hacked to death by a band of Frisian idol-worshippers on this June 5th in 754, along with 52 of his companions. There must have been quite a few of those irate Frisians. Boniface ended his life as he lived it, one of tireless struggle to convert the pagans
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/05/49257/) - The Church is like a great ship being pounded by the waves of life's different stresses. Our duty is not to abandon ship, but to keep her on her course (Saint Boniface, +754)
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Boniface](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/05/pope-benedict-and-saint-boniface/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 11 March 2009 Saint Boniface, the Apostle of the Germans Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, we shall reflect on a great eighth-century missionary who spread Christianity in Central Europe, indeed also in my own country: St Boniface, who has gone down in history as "the Apostle of
- [Saint Francis Caraciollo](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/04/saint-francis-caraciollo/) - This co-founder of the Adorno Fathers was born Ascanio dei Caracciolo Pisquizi, in the kingdom of Naples in the year 1563, just as the Protestant revolt was reaching its crescendo. Italy was largely spared its ravages, although other problems assailed the Church, which is semper reformanda est - always in need of reform. Ascanio was
- [Terminal at Tim's, and a Modest Proposal](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/04/terminal-at-tims-and-a-modest-proposal/) - There's an old joke that asks what's the difference between God and a doctor? God doesn't think He's a doctor. Sure, it's hyperbolic and cynical, and many physicians do sacrificial hidden work for their innumerable patients, for which we should be grateful. There is a sort of secular sanctity in medicine, if practised well. But
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/03/49243/) - The blood of martyrs is the seed of Christians (Tertullian, +220)
- [Peter and Marcellinus, Hidden Yet Their Voice Goes Out Through All the Earth](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/02/peter-and-marcellinus-hidden-yet-their-voice-goes-out-through-all-the-earth/) - Like many of the early martyrs, not much is known of Saints Marcellinus and Peter, except that they died for the Faith during the persecution of Diocletian in 304, put to death by beheading at the 12th milestone on the Via Aurelia outside of Rome. Their executioner, Dorotheus, went on to convert to Christianity, according
- [Saint Charles Lwanga and Companion Martyrs: The Hope of Africa](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/03/the-hope-and-courage-of-charles-lwanga-and-companion-martyrs/) - If the Church seems moribund in North America, there is hope in the vast continent of Africa, where there are untold millions of Catholics, fervent, joyful and full of life. This spiritual energy that was sown by those who came before, not least the countless martyrs and missionaries through the ages, from Saints Perpetua and
- [Something Wicked: A Review](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/01/something-wicked-a-review/) - Something Wicked: Why Feminism Can't Be Fused with Christianity Sophia Institute Press Manchester, New Hampshire Copyright 2021, 2025 241 pp. I’ve been meaning to write a few words on a new, and controversial, book making the rounds, namely, Dr. Carrie Gress’ Something Wicked: Why Feminism Can’t Be Fused with Christianity. Her main premise is
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/01/49211/) - We pray for our enemies; we seek to persuade those who hate us without cause to live conformably to the goodly precepts of Christ, that they may become partakers with us of the joyful hope of blessings from God, the Lord of all. (Saint Justin Martyr, +165)
- [Justin, the Philosophical Martyr](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/06/01/justin-a-philosophers-martyr/) - Saint Justin (+165) who is called the 'Martyr', was born around the time the last Apostle, John, departed this life for heaven. Justin was not raised in the Catholic faith – few were in those incipient days of the Church - but was rather a pagan convert to Christianity. He first investigated the various philosophies
- [The Heroism of Captain Witold Pilecki: Lest We Forget](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/29/the-heroism-of-captain-witold-pilecki-lest-we-forget/) - (Esto vir, God exhorts Moses in the Bible - Be a man! And few men were such 'men' as Cavalry Captain Witold Pilecki, as recounted here by contributor Paul Suski. A heroic example to us all, as we now face times such as his, where courage is called for) May 25th marked another anniversary of
- [Sunday Musical Offering: Bach's Cantata for Trinity Sunday](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/31/bachs-cantata-for-trinity-sunday/) - J.S. Bach composed this cantata for Trinity Sunday in 1725, first performed on May 27th of that year. The libretto begins with Es ist ein trotzig und verzagt Ding (There is something defiant and fainthearted), and reflects upon the readings and meditations, which, in the Lutheran confession, were still orthodox: One Being, three Persons. Even
- [Homily of Pope Leo XIV on Trinity Sunday](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/31/homily-of-pope-leo-xiv-on-the-trinity/) - https://youtu.be/t4E0hZYkxsM
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/31/49197/) - Above all guard for me this great deposit of faith for which I live and fight, which I want to take with me as a companion, and which makes me bear all evils and despise all pleasures: I mean the profession of faith in the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. I entrust
- [A Short Primer on the Trinity](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/31/a-short-primer-on-the-trinity/) - In light of yesterdays’ Solemnity celebrating the Most Holy Trinity, a few words on this central teaching of our Faith may be in order. The doctrine of the Trinity is unique to the Christian Faith, developed over the first centuries of the Church and clarified by the first ecumenical Councils. The Son reveals the Father,
- [The Most Holy Trinity](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/31/the-most-holy-trinity-2/) - He who believes in him is not condemned; he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only son of God (Jn. 3:18). Each year, the Sunday following the Solemnity of Pentecost commemorates the Mystery of the Most Blessed Trinity, the central mystery of Christian faith
- [King Saint Ferdinand III](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/30/king-saint-ferdinand-iii/) - I didn't know that 'San Fernando' in California (and other places) was named after the saint we commemorate today, Saint Ferdinand III (1201 - 1252), the great, 13th century King of Leon, Castile and Galicia, who by his military prowess, courage and genius, helped unify what would later be known as 'Spain', taking back vast
- [The Pope's Rosary for Peace Today](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/30/the-popes-rosary-for-peace-today/) - The Vatican has announced that Pope Leo XIV will lead a Rosary for peace today, at 7 pm Rome time, at the end of this Marian month - which means 1 pm for many of those of us on Eastern time (Toronto to New York) Accompanying his repeated calls for an end to war, Pope
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/30/49168/) - A “woman by her very nature is maternal - for every woman, whether married or unmarried, is called upon to be a biological, psychological, or spiritual mother - she knows intuitively that to give, to nurture, to care for others, to suffer with and for them - for maternity implies suffering - is infinitely more
- [The Lost Script of Spiritual Motherhood](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/30/the-lost-script-of-spiritual-motherhood/) - (In light of today's traditional commemoration of Saint Joan of Arc, a strong, single woman who used her feminine genius much to the good, here is a reflection from contributor Alexa Bulman on the need for such 'spiritual motherhood' in today's world). Femininity has been a topic debated since Eve bit the apple. What are
- [Sainte Jeanne d'Arc, the Mighty Maid of Orleans](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/30/the-remarkable-maid-of-orleans/) - My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded: the lowliness of his handmaiden: For behold, from henceforth: all generations shall call me blessed. Saint Jeanne d’Arc (+1431), 'la Pucelle', or the virgin-maid of Orleans, is hailed as patroness of France, their saviour, as the
- [Rise and Fall: Everest and Constantinople](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/29/everest-and-constantinople/) - May 29th is the anniversary of two world changing events: The first, and more recent, was the reaching the summit of Mount Everest, the top of the world at 29, 029 feet, five miles up of pure ice, snow, glacier and rock, which had taken the lives of those who first attempted the climb: George
- [The Loss of the Empress, Stan Rogers and St. Roch's Circumnavigation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/29/the-loss-of-the-empress-of-ireland-stan-rogers-and-st-rochs-circumnavigation/) - To add to this historically significant day - which also happen to be the birthday of the late, great G.K. Chesterton in 1874 - here's a wee bit of Canadiana for our readers: On this day in 1914, the Scottish ocean liner RMS Empress of Ireland sank in the estuary of the Saint Lawrence River,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/29/49147/) - Modern man listens more willingly to witnesses than to teachers, and if he does listen to teachers, it is because they are witnesses. (Pope Saint Paul VI, +1978)
- [Paul VI, and Finding Sanctity in a Controversial Papacy](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/29/finding-sanctity-in-a-controversial-papacy-paul-vi/) - Today, May 29th, is the optional memorial of Pope Saint Paul VI, celebrated on the anniversary of his ordination in 1920. Paul VI's birth name was Giovanni Battista Enrico Maria Montini, coming into the world on the 26th of September, 1897. He was of the ‘upper crust’ of Italy, descended from the minor nobility– hence, the
- [John Paul II Reflects on Paul VI](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/29/john-paul-iis-homily-on-paul-vi/) - HOMILY OF POPE JOHN PAUL II TO COMMEMORATE THE SERVANT OF GOD PAUL VI Thursday, 6 August 1998 The memory of my venerable Predecessor, the Servant of God Paul VI who died here in Castel Gandolfo some 20 years ago, lives on throughout the Church. Time has not weakened his remembrance; on the contrary, the
- [Saint Bernard of Montjoux and his Dogs](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/28/saint-bernard-of-montjoux-or-menthon/) - The iconic Saint Bernard dogs take their name from today's saint, Saint Bernard of Menthon - also known as of Montjoux - an 11th century Burgundian priest from a noble family, who was born in about 1020, and died in 1081. He evangelized the then largely pagan regions of Aosta and Lombardy, accompanied by numerous
- [Augustine of Canterbury's Monastic Mission to Make England Merrie](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/27/the-other-saint-augustine-the-one-who-made-britain-catholic/) - There are two Saints Augustine - the bishop of Hippo, and author of the Confessions and numerous other theological masterpieces, and, today's saint, Augustine, the first bishop of Canterbury, (+604), often pronounced in England, ‘Austin’. Both were Roman citizens, for there was but one civilization and one 'world' in those days, united by the Faith.
- [Initial Musings on Magnifica Humanitas](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/26/initial-musings-on-magnifica-humanitas/) - I've been reading Papal Documents for over 40 years and teaching them for over 20, and welcome and recommend the first Encyclical of Pope Leo. It contains a great deal, being longer than nearly all past papal documents, although shorter than the very longest of Pope Francis’ and Pope John Paul II’s encyclicals. Read prayerfully
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/26/44433/) - First let a little love find entrance into their hearts, and the rest will follow. (Saint Philip Neri, +1595)
- [Saint Philip Neri's Joyful Heart](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/26/philip-neris-cheerful-spirit/) - Who could not love the saint we celebrate today, one of the most joyful and idiosyncratic – the two are not unrelated - of saints, Philip Neri, (+1595), the founder of the Congregation of the Oratory named after him. Born and raised in the great city of Florence, which has produced a whole host of
- [Pope John Paul II and Saint Philip Neri](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/26/pope-john-paul-ii-and-saint-philip-neri/) - (At the very beginning of his pontificate, on this feast of Saint Philip in 1979, Pope Saint John Paul II made a pilgrimage to the church of Santa Maria in Vallicella, commonly called the 'Chiesa Nuova', which was constructed under the auspices of Saint Philip Neri in founding the Oratory, and still stands as the
- [Jim Hughes, Requiescat in Pace](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/24/jim-hughes-requiescat-in-pace/) - As readers may know, Jim Hughes, the long-time and indomitable pro-life leader, went to his eternal reward on Monday, May 18th. He lived a long and full life, going into eternity at 82 years old, We all have very fond memories of Jim, of his Irish charisma and storytelling, his leadership and even his strong
- [Saints Bede, Gregory VII, and Mary Magdalene de'Pazzi](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/25/three-saints-for-one-2/) - There are many saints in the Church's history - there are, by one estimate, about 6000 at least quasi-officially canonized - too many ever to be celebrated liturgically in the 365 days of the year. There were the saints of the 'old' calendar, the usus antiquior, which was in turn revised - reformed, if you
- [Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/25/robert-cardinal-sarah-and-the-mother-of-the-church/) - On the 160th anniversary of the first apparition of Lourdes, on February 11th, Robert Cardinal Sarah, then-head of the Congregation for Divine Worship, issued a decree with the authority of the Holy Father, declaring that the Monday after Pentecost would be the memorial of 'The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church'. This is an
- [CST Rosary: The Visitation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/24/cst-rosary-the-visitation/) - Catholic Conscience’s CST Rosary continues with the second Joyful Mystery: the Visitation. Just as the Annunciation highlighted the CST principles of Subsidiarity and Good Stewardship, the second Joyful Mystery beautifully highlights the principles of the Sanctity of Life and Human Dignity, Solidarity, and the teachings of Saint John Paul II. Scriptural Reference Luke 1:39-56 (Catholic
- [CST Rosary: the Annunciation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/27/catholic-conscience-rosary-the-annunciation/) - In the first installment of a series of Rosary reflections highlighting the principles, values, and virtues of Catholic Social Teaching, the civic evangelization organization Catholic Conscience considers the Annunciation.This reflection was first posted on the Catholic Conscience website. ______________________ The first Joyful Mystery beautifully illustrates application of the principle of subsidiarity in humility and a
- [Beacon in a Town in Decay](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/24/beacon-in-a-town-in-decay/) - I left my hometown, Kirkland Lake, at eighteen. I know there are innumerable reasons why I was placed there, be they survival instincts, the ability to make do with little, and pivot on a dime. When I took my children there in 2019 for its 100th anniversary, I cried as we drove away as I
- [Father Kapaun's March Through the Valley of Death](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/23/father-kapauns-march-through-the-valley-of-death/) - Father Emil Kapaun was an army chaplain who died in this 23rd day of May in a prisoner of war camp in North Korea in 1951. (His heroic life has been recounted by John Stansifer in a gripping biograpy). The Korean war - technically known as a ‘police action’ – was in reality a bloody,
- [Pentecost and Witnessing to Truth](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/24/pentecost-and-the-witness-to-truth/) - To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good (1 Cor. 12:7). Today, with joy and thanksgiving we celebrate the Solemnity of Pentecost. The seven weeks of Easter have come to an end and Christ Our Lord’s Passover is fulfilled in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, manifested, given and communicated
- [Ananais and Sapphira: a lesson of Acts 5](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/20/the-error-of-ananais-and-sapphira-of-acts-5/) - Many gospel episodes leave us guessing about their backstories. For example, I’ve often wondered about the “rich young man,” who “turned away sad,” when Jesus invited him to “be perfect” in poverty. Was he the disciple, Barnabas, “Son of Encouragement,” seen later in Acts? Among all those who donated their property to the new-born Church,
- [Sunday Musical Offering: Veni Creator Spiritus!](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/24/sunday-musical-offering-veni-creator-spiritus/) - On this Solemnity of Pentecost - and a blessed one to one and all - here is of one of most beautiful hymns in our tradition, the Veni Creator Spiritus which celebrates the seven-fold gifts of the Third Person of the Trinity, in words and melody that are hauntingly beautiful. The hymn was composed by the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/24/49088/) - Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. (1 Cor 12:5-7)
- [Saint John Paul II's Pentecost](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/24/saint-john-paul-iis-pentecost/) - Homily of His Holiness John Paul II Sunday, 31 May 1998, The Solemnity of Pentecost Credo in Spiritum Sanctum, Dominum et vivificantem:I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Giver of life. With the words of the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed, the Church proclaims her faith in the Paraclete; a faith that is born of theapostolic
- [Saint Rita's Mission Impossible](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/22/saint-rita-of-the-impossible/) - We have it on good authority that nothing is impossible with God - or, as the Gabriel puts it, all things are possible with the Almighty, the All-Powerful Omnipotens in our Creed. So when we speak of 'impossible' causes, we must qualify the term, for impossibility - or, as some say desperation and desperate causes -
- [Lindberg and Earhart's Crossing the Rubicon](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/22/lindberg-and-earharts-daring-crossing/) - In one of those serendipities of history, this May 21st saw two first solo crossings of the Atlantic by air: First, by Charles Lindbergh in 1927, from New York to Le Bourget field outside Paris. Then, five years later, Amelia Earhart accomplished the same daring feat, touching down in Derry, Ireland due to bad weather.
- [Father Magallanes' Mexican Martyrdom](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/21/father-magallanes-and-mexican-martyrdom/) - The twentieth century saw the rise of various vicious anti-Catholic regimes, totalitarian and ruthless in their demonic fury to stamp out the Church. Ecrasez l’infame! Voltaire would sign off his letters, but they – the Nazis, the Communists, the Spanish ‘Republicans’, and, for our purposes today, the atheistic Mexican government which, for reasons that are
- [Eugène de Mazenod's Oblation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/21/eugenes-offering/) - Fittingly, in this month of Mary, we celebrate on this May 21st Saint Eugène de Mazenod (+1861), the 19th century founder of the Missionaries Oblate of Mary Immaculate. Born in 1782, Eugène had an idyllic childhood in France, at least for the first seven or so years, for his world, everyone else's, was turned upside
- [Dymphna's Holy Sanity](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/15/dymphnas-sanity/) - The story of Saint Dymphna (7th century), steeped in legend, is not one, perhaps, that parents would feel comfortable telling their children. Dymphna was a lovely young Irish lass, the daughter of Damon, a minor king, of Oriel, experiencing an idyllic upbringing in medieval Ireland, her mother a devout Catholic, as so many Irish used
- [Saint Bernardine of Siena](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/20/bernardine-usury-and-the-holy-name/) - Saint Bernardine of Siena (+1444) lived through a tumultuous time in the Church's history. The Great Western Schism had begun in 1378, two years before the birth of Bernardine, who hence grew up under three rival claimants to the papacy, all with their various supporters. Left orphaned at six years old, Bernardine was raised by
- [Pope Saint Celestine V: Resigning to God's Holy Will](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/19/pope-peter-celestine-v-resigning-to-gods-holy-will/) - The controversial Pope Saint Celestine V the third-last pontiff to resign the papacy, and the one who codified this possibility into canon law, died on this day on 1296, and so stands as his commemoration. He began life as Peter Morrone (1215 - 1296), a poor peasant, whose father died while he was young. His
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/19/49046/) - I appeal to you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God,
- [Ascension and Novena to the Holy Ghost](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/14/ascension-and-novena-to-the-holy-ghost/) - In the Church universal, the solemnity of Ascension is on its traditional day, Thursday - so a blessed, if belated, and joyous one to all our readers - commemorating Our Lord’s return to heaven, whence He shall return at the end of time. The ‘nine days’ from here to Pentecost signifies the very first ‘novena’
- [Novena to the Holy Ghost, Fourth Day - The Gift of Fortitude](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/18/novena-to-the-holy-ghost-day-four-the-gift-of-fortitude/) - Fourth Day Thou, in toil are comfort sweet, Pleasant coolness in the heat, Solace in the midst of woe. The Gift of Fortitude By the gift of Fortitude the soul is strengthened against natural fear, and supported to the end in the performance of duty. Fortitude imparts to the will an impulse and energy which
- [Victoria Day](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/18/victoria-day-dominion-and-ales/) - A happy Victoria Day to all our readers, when we celebrate the history of our Dominion, first as a French, then a British colony, under both crowns. For better or worse, the Brits won out, even if la langue et culture francaises still exist in la belle province and other parts of Canada. Some have dubbed
- [Pope Saint John I and John Paul II](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/18/pope-saint-john-i-and-another-popes-birthday/) - We celebrate today, Pope John Saint I (+526). One might wonder why it took five centuries for a Pope to be chosen with this very biblical and apostolic name. But, then again, up until the time of Pope John, Popes kept their baptismal names, and it was not until 533, when a certain Mercurius was
- [Saint Paschal Baylon's Humility and Joy](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/17/saint-paschal-baylon-humility-and-joy/) - The life of Paschal Baylon (1540 - 1592) has much in common with that of his fellow Franciscan, Joseph of Cupertino (+1633). They were both Franciscan friars who adopted lives of great humility and austerity - Paschal would wear a spiked metal coat, or a habit with rough pig hair on the inside. They were
- [Sunday Musical Offering: Bach's Ascension Oratorio](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/17/sunday-musical-offering-bachs-ascension-oratorio/) - Bach's Oratorio for the feast of the Ascension - Lobet Gott in seinen Reichen (Laud to God in all his kingdoms) - was first performed on May 15th, likely in 1738. The libretto follows the story of the Ascension in the Gospels of Luke and Mark, as well as Acts, with some imaginative bits of
- [The Ascension and Discipleship](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/17/the-ascensions-of-our-lord/) - ‘And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age’ (Mt. 28:20). Our Lord’s Ascension which we celebrate today (or as in the universal Church, at the proper time last Thursday) marks the exaltation and glorification of Jesus, the sign and seal of the accomplishment of His mission. His glorification as Lord
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/17/49011/) - For just as he remained with us even after his ascension, so we too are already in heaven with him, even though what is promised us has not yet been fulfilled in our bodies. (Saint Augustine, +430)
- [Tolkien and Saint Brendan](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/16/tolkien-and-saint-brendan/) - J.R.R. Tolkien wrote much else besides Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit - he was an Oxford scholar, with many articles and essays and, of course, poems, including one on today's saint, Brendan the Navigator. We present here the first stanza: At last out of the deep seas he passed, and mist rolled on
- [Saint Brendan's Legendary but Likely Voyage](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/16/brendan-the-navigator/) - Saint Brendan (+577) the sixth century Irish monk, called the 'Navigator', is reputed to have discovered Canada a full millennium before the Italian John Cabot – Giovanni Caboto - arrived on the shore of the Gaspé in 1497. In his semi-mythical recounting, the immram ('narration') known as Navigatio Sancti Brendani Abbatis (the Voyage of Saint
- [Novena to the Holy Ghost, Third Day - The Gift of Piety](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/16/novena-to-the-holy-ghost-day-three-the-gift-of-piety/) - Third Day (for the First Day, please see here) Thou, of all consolers best, Visiting the troubled breast, Dost refreshing peace bestow The Gift of Piety The gift of Piety begets in our hearts a filial affection for God as our most loving Father. It inspires us to love and respect for His sake persons
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/15/48988/) - Nothing is more useful than to look upon the world as it really is, and at the same time to seek elsewhere...for the solace to its troubles. (Pope Leo XIII, +1903)
- [Novena to the Holy Ghost, Second Day - The Gift of Fear](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/15/novena-to-the-holy-ghost-second-day-the-gift-of-fear/) - Second Day (for the First Day, please see here) Come, Father of the Poor! Come, treasures that endure! Come, Light of all that live! The Gift of Fear The gift of Fear fills us with a sovereign respect for God, and makes us dread nothing so much as to offend Him by sin. It is a
- [Saint Isidore the Farmer and Rerum Novarum](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/15/isidore-the-farmer-and-rerum-novarum/) - Saint Isidore, or, in his native Spanish, Isidro de Merlo y Quintana, was named after the other Saint Isidore, the bishop of Seville (whom we celebrated back on April 4th). This saint, known to us as Isidore the Laborer (Labrador) - or the Farmer - was born about the year 1070 in Madrid, and spent
- [The Good Choice of Matthias](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/14/matthias-greatness/) - Some are born great, some achieve greatness, some have greatness thrust upon them So wrote the Bard in his 1602 play the Twelfth Night, and 'tis fitting as a theme for the one who was chosen as the new twelfth Apostle, who was definitely not born into greatness, but had greatness thrust upon him and,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/14/48965/) - Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, show which one of these two thou hast chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside, to go to his own place." And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthi'as; and he was enrolled with the
- [Pope Benedict on Judas and Matthias](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/14/pope-benedict-on-judas-and-matthias/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 18 October 2006 Judas Iscariot and Matthias Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, concluding our walk through the portrait gallery of the Apostles called directly by Jesus during his earthly life, we cannot fail to mention the one who has always been named last in the list of
- [Bad Choices: Trudeau's 1969 Omnibus Bill](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/14/bad-choices-trudeaus-1969-omnibus-bill/) - A good choice was made with Saint Matthias, in accordance with God's holy will, and we may rejoice accordingly on this feast of the Apostle. But the good in this vale of tears always goes along with some evil, the wheat and the tares inextricably linked unto the end of time. And a bad choice
- [Vaya con Dios, California!](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/13/vaya-con-dios-california/) - I write these few words in LAX, on this feast of Our Lady of Fatima, while awaiting to board my flight back home, after a whirlwind visit to Southern California. I last wrote of finding that cool, clear river of water in the desert, providing life whither it goes. Well, life abounds in the golden
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/13/48952/) - In the beginning the earth was created; through her it is renewed. In the beginning its activity was cursed by the deed of Adam; through her peace and security is restored. In the beginning, death entered all through the sin of their first parents, but now we have been transferred from death to life. (Saint
- [Our Lady of Fatima](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/13/fatimas-century-and-living-the-faith/) - The revelations, prophecies and secrets of Our Lady of Fatima have loomed large in the minds and heart of Catholics in the twentieth century, and indeed many others across the world. They have taken on greater significance in events of late, with who-knows-what on the horizon. It was on this May the 13th in 1917
- [Nereus, Achilleus and Pancras: Finding Our Way to Heaven](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/12/nereus-and-achilleus/) - Today we commemorate the early martyrs Nereus and Achilleus, soldiers, officers of the court, and converts to the Faith, likely put to death under Emperor Domitian in the late 1st century. (Other sources claim they were martyred under Diocletian in the third). Their lives are shrouded in legend, like many of the earliest martyrs. Saint
- [What Beatrix Potter Tells Us of a Life Well Lived](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/06/what-beatrix-potter-tells-us-of-a-life-well-lived/) - I read a biography about Beatrix Potter, and I was amazed at how much I learned about virtue from her life. She was an amazing woman. She respected her family heritage, traditions, but she also had a very independent spirit. She had a poor education and lived quite a lonely life with her brother and
- [Going West...](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/07/going-west/) - There's the old saying about ‘going west’ that appeals to the soul of the wanderer. Why this should be, I wonder, as I myself wander west’ to California, in part for the wedding of a former student, but also to see the famed Golden state, whose aura has lost some of its sheen. More on
- [Living Water in a Dry Land](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/08/living-water-in-a-dry-land/) - If any one thirst, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in me, as the scripture has said, 'Out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water. (John 7:38) Then the angel showed me the river of life, rising from the throne of God and of the Lamb and flowing crystal-clear down
- [Mothers' Day](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/10/mothers-day/) - A Blessed Sixth Sunday of Easter to all our readers, which also happens to be the secular commemoration of Mothers' Day, which became widespread when President Woodrow Wilson – leaving aside his imprudent ‘Fourteen Points’ at Versailles in 1919 paved the way for an even worse war two decades later – proclaimed in 1914 that
- [Blessed Catherine of Saint Augustine, Foundress of Canada](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/08/blessed-catherine-of-saint-augustine-foundress-of-canada/) - We have celebrated a number of 'Catherines' of late in our liturgical calendar, two of them Canadian: Kateri Tekakwitha on April 17th, the native convert who adopted the name of Catherine of Siena, whose feast was on April 29th, the day Kateri was baptized. Now today we commemorate Blessed Catherine of Saint Augustine (+1688), one
- [A Mother's Indissoluble Love](https://catholicinsight.com/2021/05/09/a-mothers-indissoluble-love/) - A Blessed Sixth Sunday of Easter to all our readers, which also happens to be the secular commemoration of Mothers' Day, which became widespread when President Woodrow Wilson – leaving aside his imprudent ‘Fourteen Points’ at Versailles in 1919 paved the way for an even worse war two decades later – proclaimed in 1914 that
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/10/48928/) - Christ’s coming to life again for our sake has put an end to the sovereignty of death. We have come to know the true God and to worship him in spirit and in truth, through the Son, our mediator, who sends down upon the world the Father’s blessings. (Saint Cyril of Alexandria, +444)
- [Saint François de Laval and the (Re)Conversion of Canada](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/06/saint-francois-de-laval-and-the-renewal-of-canada/) - 'Tis difficult to believe that Quebec was once a a bastion of the Faith, incarnating in an almost unique way in the historical annals the harmony between Church and State, offering the early pioneers of this nation - New France - the elan vital to conquer a wild and savage land, to raise large families,
- [Felicitations for Leo](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/08/felicitations-for-leo/) - A brief note to wish Pope Leo XIV a very blessed and grace-filled one year anniversary as Pope. As the saying goes, it’s difficult to believe it was only a year ago, as so much has transpired, and how quickly we forget previous eras when a new one dawns, with all of its hopes, and
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/07/48906/) - A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles." — Tim Cahill
- [Blessed Marie-Leonie Paradis](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/04/blessed-marie-leonie-paradis/) - There is a trio of Canadian Saints in this week: Saint Marie of the Incarnation on the last day of April; Saint Francois de Laval on the 6th of May; and today, the little-known Blessed Marie-Leonie Paradis. Born on May 12th in 1840, baptized as Alodie-Virginie, in Quebec, she would also die in Mary’s month,
- [Safe at Home with Grace](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/03/safe-at-home-with-grace/) - Although I have been a lifelong Catholic Christian, grace has always been to me a rather nebulous term. I may have recited its definition verbatim from the Baltimore Catechism for “Sister Mary Inquisition” as “…a supernatural gift of God bestowed on us through the merits of Jesus Christ for our salvation.” (Question 109), but I
- [Fourth Sunday and Obeying the Good Shepherd](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/26/fourth-sunday-and-obeying-gods-voice/) - ‘My sheep hear my voice. I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish’ (Jn. 10:27). In this brief statement we have everything we need to know about God and ourselves. The Lord of all creation reveals Himself and He has created us with an ability both
- [Fifth Sunday of Easter: Offering Diakonia](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/03/fifth-sunday-of-easter-offering-diakonia/) - But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people; in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of Him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light (1 Pt. 2:9). As we continue our celebration of Easter and reflect on the earliest days of the Church,
- [A Timeless Ethical Compass: Catholic intellectual tradition and the future of common-law justice](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/30/a-timeless-ethical-compass-the-catholic-intellectual-tradition-and-the-future-of-common-law-justice/) - Catholic Social Teaching and the natural law upon which it is founded are not mere historical curiosities to be kept filed away in the past. To the contrary, their origins in God’s designs for life – that is, in the Word of God – ensures their continuing fundamental relevance to every social undertaking of humankind.
- [The Unity of Contraries in Christianity](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/18/the-unity-of-contraries-in-christianity/) - As a child, I was struck with a certain astonishment at the perverse and sometimes startling coincidence that opposites exist. I think most children within their early life recognize the division of the world in this way. Ordinary things are known by their opposite, or by the contrast with other things around them. You might
- [Philip the Questioner and James' Letter: Apostles and Martyrs](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/03/philips-questions-and-james-letter/) - Philip and James, Apostles, have been celebrated together on this third day in May since the revision of the calendar in 1969. They were originally commemorated on May 1st, the anniversary of the church dedicated to them in Rome, but that day was adopted as Saint Joseph the Worker by Pius XII in 1955, as
- [Athanasius Contra Mundum](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/02/athanasius-contra-mundum-2/) - This second day of May is the memorial of one of the most heroic bishops in the history of the Church, the great Saint Athanasius (+373), who stood contra mundum, against the world. He was mighty foe of the pernicious heresy of Arius, who denied the full divinity of Christ, and the hero of Blessed
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/02/48859/) - In this way the Word of God, who is above all, dedicated and offered his temple, the instrument that was his body, for us all, as he said, and so paid by his own death the debt that was owed. The immortal Son of God, united with all men by likeness of nature, thus fulfilled
- [Pope Benedict and Athanasius](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/02/benedict-xvis-take-on-athanasius/) - GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 20 June 2007 Saint Athanasius of Alexandria Dear Brothers and Sisters, Continuing our revisitation of the great Teachers of the ancient Church, let us focus our attention today on St Athanasius of Alexandria. Only a few years after his death, this authentic protagonist of the Christian tradition was
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/01/48853/) - There is no doubt that human work has an ethical value of its own, which clearly and directly remain linked to the fact that the one who carries it out is a person, a conscious and free subject, that is to say a subject that decides about himself. (Pope Saint John Paul II, +2005)
- [Work Made Light with Saint Joseph the Worker](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/05/01/saint-joseph-and-what-work-really-means/) - In the waning years of the 19th century, before the war to end all wars at the dawn of the twentieth, followed by the imposition of 'real socialism' by Lenin and Stalin, the first day of May was adopted as 'International Workers' Day', to celebrate the rights of the laborer, in light of Marx and
- [Marie of the Incarnation: A Saint for Canada](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/30/saint-marie-of-the-incarnation/) - Saint Marie of the Incarnation (1599 – 1672) was a mystic and missionary to Canada, contemporaneous with the first settlers of this wild and savage land, along with the Franciscans and Jesuits who brought the Faith. She was born Marie Guyart in 1599, in Tours, France, her father a baker, her mother a homemaker, who
- [Saint Pius V: Between Heaven and Earth](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/30/saint-pius-v-between-heaven-and-earth/) - Michel Ghislieri was born as Anton in 1504, but took the name of the Archangel 'who is like God' when he joined the Dominican Order at the age of 14, and never looked back. Fitting, for his whole life was a spiritual battle, first, against his own sinful tendencies – against which he was merciless,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/29/48835/) - Start being brave about everything. Drive out darkness and spread light. Don’ look at your weaknesses. Realize instead that in Christ crucified you can do everything. (Saint Catherine of Siena, +1380)
- [Catherine of Siena, Mystic, Doctor and Reformer](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/29/catherine-the-great-of-siena/) - Ecclesia semper reformanda est. So goes the old saying - the Church, always in need of reform - applies now, perhaps, more than ever. And one of her greatest reformers was not a Pope, nor a bishop, nor a man, but a simple woman of great holiness, intelligence, character and strength, a Dominican tertiary, who
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Catherine of Siena](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/29/pope-benedict-and-saint-catherine-of-siena/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Hall Wednesday, 24 November 2010 Saint Catherine of Siena Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today I would like to talk to you about a woman who played an eminent role in the history of the Church: St Catherine of Siena. The century in which she lived — the 14th —
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/28/48827/) - Even if you are on the brink of damnation, even if you have one foot in hell, even if you have sold your soul to the devil as sorcerers do who practice black magic, and even if you are a heretic as obstinate as a devil, sooner or later you will be converted and will
- [Saints Chanel and Montfort](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/28/13294-2/) - On this 28th of April we celebrate two Saints: Saint Peter Chanel (+1841) who evangelized the island of Futuna in the South Pacific - the first to bring the Gospel to a people who had never heard of Christianity. He was tireless and indefatigable in the midst of very difficult and discouraging conditions, and, like many
- [Breaking a 26 Mile Barrier](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/27/breaking-a-26-mile-barrier/) - Well, some thought it couldn't be done, but Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha broke the two-hour barrier of the marathon, a 26 mile race of grit and endurance: Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe becomes FIRST person EVER to run a marathon UNDER 2 HOURS with London Marathon time 1:59:30 Yomif Kejelcha from Ethiopia also finished in less
- [Prima Vera Verily Arriving](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/26/prima-vera-verily-arriving/) - Spring is slowly, but I hope surely, arriving here where I live, which happens to be near a lake called Kamaniskeg (an Indigenous name meaning 'shining water). It doesn't' shine much during the winter, and here is the lake as it thawed last week, the ice sublimating into eerie quasi-Biblical ominous mist, hovering above the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/26/48807/) - No matter what obstacles we encounter, we must not allow them to turn us aside from the joy of that heavenly feast. Anyone who is determined to reach his destination is not deterred by the roughness of the road that leads to it. Nor must we allow the charm of success to seduce us, or
- [Our Lady's Good Counsel](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/26/our-lady-of-good-counsel/) - Our Lady of Good Counsel - Mater Boni Consilii - which is celebrated on this 26th of April, is one of the many titles of the Virgin Mary, this one dating back indirectly to the 5th century, when Pope Sixtus III provided material and spiritual aid to a church dedicated to Our Lady in the
- [Subito Santo? Quo Vadis, Purgatorio?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/25/subito-santo-quo-vadis-purgatorio/) - Pope Francis died on April 21st last year - which seems a different era. We commend his soul to God, praying for him, not to him, for we presume that even those souls who die in a state of grace, in friendship with God - which we hope Francis did - still need purifying for
- [Into and Out of Africa](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/22/into-and-out-of-africa/) - Pope Leo XIV is on the last leg of his pilgrimage to Africa, the destination he chose for his first apostolic visitation. Makes sense, for the continent is one of the few places left on actually replacing itself. This interactive map is intriguing, if also somewhat depressing. Hovering above each country gives its TFR -
- [In a Hurry to Get Things Done: The Gospel of Saint Mark](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/25/the-immediacy-of-mark/) - Saint Mark, writer of the Gospel and first bishop of Alexandria, was the missionary companion and amanuensis of Saint Peter, the first pope. The third-century theologian Saint Hippolytus (and repentant anti-Pope) claims that Mark was one of the seventy disciples sent forth by Christ, meeting up with Saint Paul (he is likely the ‘John Mark’
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/25/48777/) - And he said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned". (Saint Mark, 16:15-16)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/24/48762/) - O Catholic faith, how solid, how strong you are! How deeply rooted, how firmly founded on a solid rock! Heaven and earth will pass away, but you can never pass away. From the beginning the whole world opposed you, but you mightily triumphed over everything. This is the victory that overcomes the world, our faith.
- [Saint Fidelis' Last and Greatest Sermon](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/24/fidelis-greatest-sermon-was-his-life/) - Today is the memorial of Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen, (+1622) whose original name was Mark Rey: 'Sigmaringen' was his birthplace in what is now Germany, and he took the name 'Fidelis' - faithful - in religion, after he joined the Capuchins in the first decade of the 1600's. This was in the era of the
- [Chasing Rubber Balls Seems to Cost a Lot](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/23/chasing-rubber-balls-costs-a-lot/) - $624 million. That's the apparent tally for hosting the portion of the World Cup games to be held in Vancouver this summer - seven matches, which comes to just under $90 million per game. We've written before about the excesses of professional sports, the bloated salaries, the insane hype and zeal, the quasi-religious aspect of
- [George, Shakespeare and Brian Boru: England, Ireland and Fighting the Good Fight](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/23/saint-george-and-the-fighting-spirit/) - Today used to be (*) a national holiday in England - as the people hearken back to an earlier and better time in the now tragically declined, if not lost, nation. For today is the feast of their patron, the semi-legendary Saint George, martyr for the Faith, slayer of the dragon and rescuer of princesses.
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/23/48744/) - Dear brothers, let us not only admire the courage of this fighter in heaven’s army but follow his example. Let us be inspired to strive for the reward of heavenly glory, keeping in mind his example, so that we will not be swayed from our path, though the world seduce us with its smiles or
- [Aliens, Eliot and Christ](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/22/aliens-eliot-and-christ/) - I met an alien today. If you humour me for a few moments, I’ll explain. It isn’t one of the aliens that appeared in the media earlier last year, were confirmed as real, and who then evaporated into thin air. Unfortunately not. Rather, the alien I encountered was more a thought-alien and one of my
- [The Limpid Soul and Mind of Anselm of Canterbury](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/21/anselm-of-canterbury-an-answer-to-our-age/) - Saint Anselm (+1109) was bishop of the see of Canterbury, in the south of England, whose old buildings and cobbled roads still evoke her mediaeval era. Canterbury is famous both for her original founding bishop, Augustine, who governed from 597 until his death in 604 (yes, the 'other' Augustine, sometimes called 'Austin' in Britain), whom
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/21/48716/) - For I do not seek to understand in order to believe, but I believe in order to understand. For I believe this: unless I believe, I will not understand (Saint Anselm of Canterbury ,+1109)
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Anselm](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/21/pope-benedict-and-saint-anselm/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 23 September 2009 [Video] Saint Anselm Dear Brothers and Sisters, The Benedictine Abbey of Sant'Anselmo [St Anselm] is located on the Aventine Hill in Rome. As the headquarters of an academic institute of higher studies and of the Abbot Primate of the Confederated Benedictines it is
- [Carney's Amoral Majority](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/17/carneys-amoral-majority/) - After five defections – euphemistically described as ‘crossing the floor’ – and three by-elections, Mark Carney and his Liberals how have their coveted majority. One wonders what bowls of pottage were offered in back-room deals. In the archaic monarchical system that is the Dominion of Canada, this majority allows the newly-minted Prime Minister to rule
- [Blessed Marie-Anne Blondin: Educator and Martyr of Silence](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/18/blessed-marie-anne-blondin-martyr-of-silence/) - Bd. Marie-Anne Blondin (+1890), whose optional memorial falls today in our fair Dominion, the day of her birth in 1809, five decades before Canada was Canada. Most Canadians, alas, have likely never heard of her, but she was one of the founders of our once-glorious and envied educational system, before its modern disintegration, for reasons
- [Sunday Musical Offering: The Regina Coeli](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/19/sunday-musical-offering-the-regina-coeli/) - A blessed, joyous and grace-filled Easter to one and all! Christus resurrexit! Dominus surrexit vere! Alleluia! One of my favorite songs of this season of joy the Regina Coeli, the antiphon of praise to Our Lady. Here is simple Gregorian chant version, which we sing (or at least pray) in place of the Angelus during
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/19/48677/) - We celebrate [Easter] because now, thanks to the risen Lord, it is definitively established that reason is stronger than unreason, truth stronger than lies, love stronger than death. (Pope Benedict XVI, +2022)
- [Third Sunday of Easter: Growing in Love of the Lord](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/19/third-sunday-of-easter-growing-in-love-of-the-lord/) - Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you (Jn. 21:17). ⧾ The Easter Season is a privileged time of liturgical catechesis or instruction called mystagogy because it draws into the Mystery of Christ. This mystery is a reality that is the foundation of our hope and the reality that illuminates our entire earthly
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/18/48679/) - At the side of each of you there will always be Mary... And with her faith she will show you, beyond the night of the world, the glorious dawn of the Resurrection (Pope Saint John Paul II, +2005)
- [Saint Kateri , Canada's Protectress](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/17/16373-2/) - This was the title given to Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, by Pope Benedict XVI, when he canonized her on October 28th, 2012, along with six others, in Saint Peter' Square (she had been beatified by Pope John Paul II back in 1980). With Saint Joseph as our protector, along with the Canadian martyrs, we seem to
- [A Closed, Unsustainable, Descending Loop](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/16/a-closed-unsustainable-descending-loop/) - As a follow-up to my thoughts on Payette's payout, here be a stark image of where are here in Canada. As the graph shows in, well, graphic terms, since 2025, the public sector has contributed to 95.5% of economic growth. The private sector - which funds the public sector, or is supposed to - has
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/16/48656/) - If one dream should fall and break into a thousand pieces... never be afraid to pick one of those pieces up and begin again. That's the beauty of being alive... We can always start all over again. Enjoy God's amazing opportunities bestowed on us. Have faith in Him always. (Saint Bernadette Soubirous, +1879)
- [My Name is Bernadette](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/16/my-name-is-bernadette/) - April 16th is a propitious day, for besides the anniversary of Father de Valk's death, who founded Catholic Insight in its print form decades ago, and the commemoration of the 'two Benedicts', mentioned in accompanying posts, today we also recall Saint Bernadette Soubirous, the young visionary to whom the Virgin Mary appeared numerous times at
- [A Tale of Two Benedicts](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/16/two-benedicts-a-wandering-beggar-and-a-birthday-for-a-pope/) - A grace-filled Holy Week to all our readers! As we await and prepare for the Resurrection about to dawn upon us, we might keep in mind two Benedicts: Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, requiescat in pace, elected on this day in 2005; and today's commemoration of the mystic pilgrim, Benedict Joseph Labre, who died on this
- [Remembering Father Alphonse de Valk](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/16/father-alphonse-de-valk-adn-the-end-of-an-era/) - (Today marks the sixth anniversary of the death of Father Alphonse de Valk, C.S.B., a faithful, courageous and indefatigable Basilian priest, pro-life-and-family apostle, and the founder of Catholic Insight magazine. Here is what we wrote those on his entering into eternity five years ago, as we continue to remember him in our prayers and thoughts)
- [Presidential Pardon of Weronika Krawczyk](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/15/presidential-pardon-of-weronika-krawczyk/) - As a good news, follow-up to our story from Poland, of the persecution of Weronika Krawczyk for her pro-life views, we heard that she has been granted a presidential pardon. One might still wonder why one needs a presidential pardon for simply holding the long-held belief that the child within the womb is a child,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/15/48631/) - But it is not only the martyrs who share in his passion by their glorious courage; the same is true, by faith, of all who are reborn through baptism. That is why we are to celebrate the Lord’s paschal sacrifice with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. The leaven of our former malice is
- [Payette's Payout](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/11/payettes-payout/) - I was glancing through some headlines, and noticed a mention of Julie Payette - engineer and astronaut and sometime the Queen's representative in Canada - which brought back vague memories. She was appointed Governor-General by Justin Trudeau in 2017. Ms. Payette resigned in 2021, amidst claims that she created a 'toxic work environment', with allegations
- [Saint Lydwina of Schiedam and Suffering Joyfully](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/14/saint-lydwina-of-schiedam-and-suffering-joyfully/) - Saint Lydwina of Schiedam (1380 - 1433) was one of the countless and glorious ‘victim souls’ in the history of the Church, those whose lives are filled with suffering, often of an unimaginable intensity, but who suffer joyfully. She was a fifteen-year old Dutch girl, out skating one day, when she fell and broke one
- [The Glorious Martyrdoms of Martin and Maximus](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/13/the-glorious-martyrdoms-of-martin-and-maximus/) - As we enter into Eastertide, we recall on this 13th of April Pope Saint Martin I (+655), one of the noblest, if most tragic, of the successors of Saint Peter. Born in Umbria, Italy, he was of noble lineage, with great intelligence combined with charity and love of the poor and the Church. While still
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/12/48618/) - You expired, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls, and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world. O Fount of Life, unfathomable Divine Mercy, envelop the whole world and empty Yourself out upon us.
- [Divine Mercy Sunday - An Echo of Every Mass](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/12/divine-mercy-sunday-an-echo-of-every-mass/) - Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe’… ‘My Lord and my God!’ (Jn. 20:18)). Today is Divine Mercy Sunday, and as we celebrate the end of the Easter Octave, we contemplate the wounded side of our Saviour, the Church’s source of life. On Good Friday in the
- [Canonizing Sister Faustina and Divine Mercy](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/12/canonizing-sister-faustina-and-divine-mercy-in-the-jubilee-2000/) - HOMILY OF THE HOLY FATHER MASS IN ST PETER'S SQUARE FOR THE CANONIZATION OF SR MARY FAUSTINA KOWALSKA Sunday, 30 April 2000 1. "Confitemini Domino quoniam bonus, quoniam in saeculum misericordia eius"; "Give thanks to the Lord for he is good; his steadfast love endures for ever" (Ps 118: 1). So the Church sings on the Octave of
- [Pope Leo and a Rosary for Peace](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/11/pope-leo-and-a-rosary-for-peace/) - Pope Leo XIV has asked Catholics across the world to join him in a Rosary for peace today, at 18:00 Rome time (6 pm), which would be noon from where I write (EST). If you are able, whether at that time or another, and in whatever way you pray, to join in intercession with the
- [Saint Stanislaus of Szczepanów](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/11/saint-stanislaus/) - We celebrate Saint Stanislaus today (+ April 11, 1079), in light of this Easter Octave, a bishop and martyr who accepted the episcopacy only at the direct order of Pope Alexander II. He proved a wise and courageous leader of his flock, put to death by his own king, Boleslaus, for rebuking the monarch’s ‘immoral
- [Saint Gemma Galgani](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/11/saint-gemma-galgani/) - On this April 11th, in 1903 - the same year that the Italian Guiseppe Sarto was elected Pope later that summer as Pius X - a lovely, young Italian woman died, by the name of Gemma Galgani. She lived a brief life of 24 years, as did a number of other young saints, including Pier
- [First Holy Communion: Sermon from May 16, 1943](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/10/first-holy-communion-sermon-preached-on-may-16-1943/) - Here is a sermon from the good old days by +Rev. Msgr. Vincent Nicholas Foy (August 14, 1915 – March 13, 2017), from 1943. Readers may recall that Pope Saint Pius X, by the decree Quam Singulari in 1910, lowered the customary age of reception of Holy Communion - after the rigours of the plague
- [Weronika Krawczyk and Injustice in Poland](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/10/48587/) - Catholic Action in Poland has issued a formal statement appealing to the President of the Republic of Poland to pardon Weronika Krawczyk—convicted for warning other women against an abortion-performing gynaecologist. Catholic Action (AK) emphasizes that no apology is owed to a doctor who has performed numerous abortions and proposed others; furthermore, the organization considers the
- [An Ideological and Improper Translation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/10/ideological-and-improper-translation/) - I noticed something odd with the psalm reading at Mass the other day. Our bishops' conference here in Canada has decreed that the Mass in English - Novus Ordo - use the 'NRSV', the 'New Revised Standard Version', an 'updated' translation of the original RSV, first published in 1952. This 'new translation' has the tendency
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/09/48580/) - It is Christ who was crucified, who was buried and who rose again, and all this has been attributed to us. We share in his sufferings symbolically and gain salvation in reality. What boundless love for men! Christ’s undefiled hands were pierced by the nails; he suffered the pain. I experience no pain, no anguish,
- [Saint Jean-Baptiste de la Salle: A Teacher for Teachers](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/07/saint-jean-baptise-de-la-salle-a-teacher-for-teachers/) - Jean-Baptiste de la Salle (1651 - 1719), a French nobleman, ordained a priest, founded the first order in the Church’s history entirely without priests, and this came about almost by accident. I say ‘almost’, for, of course, there are no accidents with God. Destined for ordination from an early age, Jean-Baptiste never looked back, even
- [Good Friday and Suffering](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/03/good-friday-and-suffering/) - Evil and pain is always a mystery, that whole mysterium iniquitatis, of which Saint Paul writes (2 Thess 2:7). In 1984, Pope Saint John Paul II penned an Apostolic Letter on the nature and purpose of human suffering, Salvifici Doloris (curiously, now looking back, the same year he made his first apostolic journey to Canada).
- [Europe's Long Descent](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/04/europes-long-descent/) - (As we meditate on this day on Christ's burial, and His descent into hell, it is fitting to ponder here with contributor Peter Marcus how the world seems to be heading there as well. The difference is that, although God cannot 'redeem' hell, nor those therein, He can and did redeem the world. There is
- [In the Glorious Light of Easter, Alleluia!](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/04/in-the-glorious-light-of-easter/) - Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory (Col. 3:3-4). The Resurrection of Our Lord and Saviour
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/05/48558/) - But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold,
- [Three Easter Musical Gems: Bach, Palestrina and Byrd](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/05/three-easter-musical-gems/) - A very blessed and glorious Easter! Christus surrexit vere, alleluia! As we begin this Easter Octave with the great Solemnity of Easter, music to lift the soul would be one of Bach's Easter cantatas, composed during his time at Leipzig in the early 1700's, for the six Sundays of this festive season, leading up to
- [Your Easter Prayer](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/04/your-easter-prayer/) - Happy Easter Lord Jesus Christ. It's Easter day and we smile In the Lord's in gentle light and His tomb is bare the stone is rolled A story new that must be told And Lord Jesus Christ We love you it's so true and Lord Jesus Christ has risen From his sleep and the Promises
- [Saint Isidore of Seville, the Internet and Industriousness](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/04/isidore-internet-and-industriousness/) - Today, April 4th, muted this year by Holy Saturday, is the commemoration of Saint Isidore of Seville (560-636) a bishop and doctor of the Church during a tumultuous age, when civilization was crumbling, coming apart at its very seams, which may sound sort of au courant. Then again, the form of this world has always
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/04/48536/) - Rise, let us leave this place. The enemy led you out of the earthly paradise. I will not restore you to that paradise, but I will enthrone you in heaven. I forbade you the tree that was only a symbol of life, but see, I who am life itself am now one with you. (From
- [An Ancient Homily for Holy Saturday](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/04/an-ancient-homily-for-holy-saturday/) - The time between Good Friday and Easter Sunday is one of waiting, in silence, as the world wonders - anticipates - what will happen, after the death of Christ. We re-live this time each year in the anamnesis of our liturgy, and in turn look forward to the glorious re-creation of all things at the
- [Bishop Fulton Sheen's 58th Good Friday Reflection](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/03/bishop-fulton-sheens-58th-good-friday-reflection/) - Incredible, at the beginning of this reflection, that the Venerable Bishop Sheen declares that he has given nearly 58 Good Friday reflections - this, as far as I can gather, was his final one, and he seems in full vigour in mind and body. The good bishop and evangelist died in his 84th year on
- [Allegri's Miserere and Mozart's Memory](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/03/mozart-and-allegris-miserere/) - On this Good Friday, a fitting help to our devotion is Allegri's Miserere, his unsurpassed musical setting of Psalm 51, recited in Lauds (Morning Prayer) every Friday. Composed around 1638, under the patronage of Pope Urban VIII- the same one who battled Galileo - the sublime piece was performed only on certain occasions in the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/03/48521/) - he alone as the only-begotten Son could take them upon himself, accept them with that love for the Father which overcomes the evil of every sin; in a certain sense he annihilates this evil in the spiritual space of the relationship between God and humanity, and fills this space with good (Pope Saint John Paul
- [Pope Saint John Paul II's First Good Friday Homily](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/03/pope-saint-john-paul-iis-first-good-friday-homily/) - ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS JOHN PAUL II AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE STATIONS OF THE CROSS AT THE COLOSSEUM Good Friday, 13 April 1979 When we make the Way of the Cross from one station to the next, in spirit we are always at the spot wherethis journey had its “historical" place: where it
- [A Meditation for Good Friday: How To Undo the Effects of Sin?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/03/meditation-good-friday/) - Cardinal Newman, now Saint John Henry Newman, was a towering figure of nineteenth-century Catholicism who is almost universally admired. I say “almost” because not everyone likes him. I knew a priest once, Arthur Caulkins, who has become disenchanted with Newman. As an undergraduate Arthur had been enamoured of Newman, and this interest continued when he
- [A Minimal Friar and the Death of a Great Pope](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/02/a-minimal-friar-and-a-maximal-pope/) - This April the second- overshadowed by Holy Thursday this year - marks the memorial of Saint Francis of Paola (1417-1507), founder of the 'Minim' friars, so called for their humility and poverty, who interpreted the rule of Saint Francis of Assisi in quite a literal sense: extreme poverty, trust in God, foregoing all animal and
- [Pope Benedict's Last Holy Thursday Homily](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/02/48506/) - MASS OF THE LORD'S SUPPER HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI Basilica of St John Lateran Holy Thursday, 5 April 2012 Photo Gallery (Video) Dear Brothers and Sisters! Holy Thursday is not only the day of the institution of the Most Holy Eucharist, whose splendour bathes all else and in some ways draws it to
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/02/48508/) - The power of the priest, is the power of the divine person; for the transubstantiation of the bread requires as much power as the creation of the world. (St. Bernardine of Siena, +1444)
- [Saint Hugh of Châteauneuf](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/01/saint-hugh-of-chateauneuf/) - Today's Saint Hugh of Châteauneuf (1053 - 1152) is not to be confused with Saint Hugh of Lincoln (1140 - 1200), although their life spans overlapped briefly, both were bishops and both were connected with the Carthusians. Today's Hugh - the French one - helped to found Saint Bruno's Order of hermits, while the other
- [Parsing Pope Leo's Plea for Peace](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/31/parsing-pope-leos-plea-for-peace/) - We will post the introduction and link to Pope Leo's sermon from Palm Sunday, petitioning in pliant terms for peace. May all those involved in the conflict in Iran, across the Middle East, and across the world take his words to heart. One question that stays with us before we do so, and which is
- [A Bad Moon Risin'](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/28/a-bad-moon-risin/) - We're now into the second month of the Iran vs. America/Israel War - or whatever name one wants to give it, whether 'war' or 'conflict', or who's involved, or who might become involved, as the Houthis have now started lobbing missiles into Israel. And into this second moon cycle, as we approach the greatest solemnity
- [Spy Wednesday, and Bishop Sheen's Take on Judas](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/04/01/spy-wednesday/) - Today is traditionally called Spy Wednesday, the day on which Judas Iscariot made the fateful decision, deep in his heart and at Satan's prompting, to hand over Our Lord for thirty pieces of silver - the price of a slave. Thus, fulfilled the words of the prophet Zechariah: And they weighed out as my wages
- [Moon Shot?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/31/moon-shot/) - I was just reminded that tomorrow, (or today), April 1st, NASA plans to send its first mission back to the Moon for nearly fifty years. Over a half century since 1972, the last time, according to the account, NASA landed men on the moon. Artemis II plans to send four astronauts to do a loop
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/31/48480/) - Be at peace with your own soul, then heaven and earth will be at peace with you. (Saint Teresa of Calcutta, +1997)
- [Woven versus Seamless Garments](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/30/woven-versus-seamless-garments/) - The reflection on the worthy project by Magie Dominic was intriguing, and I thought I would offer a brief follow-up commentary. The garment woven out of many pieces is a poignant symbol, even a 'sacramental', inspired by prayer and grace. We are all united in some way, and should strive for such unity, wherever we
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/29/48465/) - Let us run to accompany him as he hastens towards his passion, and imitate those who met him then, not by covering his path with garments, olive branches or palms, but by doing all we can to prostrate ourselves before him by being humble and by trying to live as he would wish. Then we
- [The Two Passions of J.S. Bach](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/28/the-passions-of-j-s-bach/) - As we enter in Holy Week, it is fitting to suggest some solemn music to fit the season, here the two settings of the 'Passion' put to music by Johann Sebastian Bach. According to sources, Bach wrote five 'Passions', orchestral chorales based on the final days in the life of Christ, but only two have
- [Pope Saint John Paul II's Last Passion Sunday](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/28/pope-saint-john-paul-iis-last-passion-sunday/) - (This is the last of Pope Saint John Paul II's Passion-Palm Sunday homilies, given in 2004, before his own passion and death the following year, when he was unable - for the first time - to celebrate Mass on this Holy Day. Yet he worked in the Lord's vineyard right up until the end, having
- [Fabric of Resurrection and Redemption: The Gown of Stillness](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/28/fabric-of-resurrection-and-redemption-the-gown-of-stillness/) - Editor's note: this reflection was originally posted by the Catholic Artist Connection. The mission of the Catholic Artist Connection is to connect and support Catholic artists of all disciplines both professionally and spiritually, to ease the loneliness of being a Catholic artist and encourage the creation of art for Christ. People look at the same
- [Gift or the Grift?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/27/gift-or-grift/) - Service in politics used to be an actual thing. That is, those in 'public office' saw themselves truly as public servants, working diligently on behalf of the people they represent. Remunerated at the expense of others by enforced taxation, they realized they should offer this service in a spirit of charity, good-will and sacrifice. A
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/27/48423/) - He is at once priest and sacrifice, God and temple. He is the priest through whom we have been reconciled, the sacrifice by which we have been reconciled, the temple in which we have been reconciled, the God with whom we have been reconciled. (Saint Fulgentius of Ruspe, +527 or 533)
- [Bill C-9: Prelude to Persecution?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/27/bill-c-9-prelude-to-persecution/) - Well, it happened, as I suppose was inevitable, at least in a secular sense (from God' perspective, there's always hope). Bill C-9, the ironically named 'Combatting Hate Act' passed the House of Commons with a 186-137 vote. Look on the good side - there's still over a hundred sane people in parliament who believe in
- [Living in Wonder](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/27/living-in-wonder/) - Years ago I decided to take a course on Wagner’s Der Ring des Nibelungen, I know, very mainstream. As I sat in a small class room with people who were a minimum twenty years older than me a whole new world opened up to me. Yes my classmates were older and wiser than me, yet,
- [Slow Reading](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/26/slow-reading/) - It's a common trope that reading has diminished of late, especially since the advent of ubiquitous screen technology, but the demise likely predated the i-pad and e-reader. Television is a culprit, but so are comic books and glossy magazines. Then there's the effect of the mass-education system and all of its ideological propaganda. At least
- [The Feast of the Annunciation: God's Invitation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/25/the-feast-of-the-annunciation-gods-invitation/) - In the quiet village of Nazareth, far removed from centers of power and influence, a young woman named Mary was living what seemed to be an ordinary day. There were no signs that history was about to change. No crowds, no great gathering, no outward indication that something divine was about to unfold. And yet,
- [Three Musical Offerings for the Annunciation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/25/three-musical-offerings-for-the-annunciation/) - A very blessed Solemnity of the Annunciation to one and all! This March 25th marking the greatest event in history - the Incarnation of the Son of God - goes back to the very origins of the Church, and changed everything. What was lost, is now found, what was dead, is now very much alive.
- [The Population Dud](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/24/the-population-dud/) - Paul Ehrlich died last March 13th, at the age of 93. He was the author of The Population Bomb, published in the fateful year of 1968, when the sexual revolution was in full swing, and 'the Pill' all the thing. It was also the year Pope Saint Paul VI promulgated his revolutionary encyclical Humanae Vitae,
- [Homily of John Paul II in the Basilica of the Annunciation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/25/homily-of-jp-ii-in-the-basilica-of-the-annunciation-2000/) - A blessed Solemnity of the Annunciation to one and all! Verbum caro factum est! Here is a meditation of the late, great John Paul II, staunchly devoted to Our Lady, from the Jubilee Year, just over a quarter of century ago, to provide food for thought, as we celebrate, and pray. Editor. JUBILEE PILGRIMAGE OF
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/24/48373/) - He who is true God was therefore born in the complete and perfect nature of a true man, whole in his own nature, whole in ours. By our nature we mean what the Creator had fashioned in us from the beginning, and took to himself in order to restore it. (Pope Saint Leo the Great,
- [The Scary Harem of IVF](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/21/the-scary-harem-of-ivf/) - This bizarre article caught my eye: A father and son in Quebec have sired between themselves 613 children by donating their sperm for use in IVF. Yes, you read that rightly. All those children are related in ways that doesn't bear pondering. You'd have to go back to Genghis Khan's industrial-scale harem to find that
- [I Am the Resurrection and the Life: Fifth Sunday and Passiontide](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/22/i-am-the-resurrection-and-the-life-fifth-sunday-and-passiontide/) - ‘I am the resurrection and the life…Do you believe this’? (Jn. 11:25-26). The fifth Sunday in Lent marks the beginning of Passiontide. We will now begin to recall the events most closely preceding the days of Our Lord’s Passion, Death and glorious Resurrection, the Paschal Triduum. Our Gospel reading recounts the resurrection of Lazarus which
- [The Indefatigable Saint Turibius](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/23/the-implacability-of-saint-turibius-of-mongrovejo/) - Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo (+1606), a missionary bishop of Lima, Peru from 1579 until his death in 1606, who never seemed to stop, a heroic model for bishops for all ages, as well as an example for all of us. But as Turibius would see things, he was simply doing his duty as a successor
- [Two Lenten Saint Nicholases: Flüe and Owen](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/22/two-other-saint-nicholases/) - On March 21 and 22, we commemorate two saints by the name of Nicholas. The first is Nicholas of Flüe (1415 - 1487), patron saint of Switzerland. His life was unique, and perhaps not to be imitated: As a husband and father of ten children, he decided to retreat from his busy life as a
- [From 19th-Century Convert to 21st-Century Doctor: Newman's Theology Speaks to Today](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/17/from-19th-century-convert-to-21st-century-doctor-newmans-theology-speaks-to-today/) - Introduction In a time of quick changes in culture, and of secularism, and doctrinal arguments within the Church, the theology of St. John Henry Newman (1801–1890) stands out as very prescient. Newman was born in London and grew up in the Church of England. He went through a number of major changes in his life,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/21/48333/) - If we follow Christ closely we shall be allowed, even on this earth, to stand as it were on the threshold of the heavenly Jerusalem, and enjoy the contemplation of that everlasting feast, like the blessed apostles, who in following the Saviour as their leader, showed, and still show, the way to obtain the same
- [Podcast: Chastity, Purity and Modesty](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/21/podcast-chastity-purity-and-modesty/) - I recently had a conversation with Mrs. Bonnie Landry, on whose popular podcast 'Make Joy Normal: Cozy Homeschooling' I've been a guest before. This time, the theme was the much forgotten, if not maligned, but very necessary and beautiful virtue of chastity, and its accompanying virtues of purity and modesty. We need to rediscover the
- [Proclamation of Saint Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/19/the-150th-anniversary-of-saint-joseph-as-patron-of-the-universal-church/) - Pope Blessed Pius IX declared Saint Joseph patron of the universal Church in 1870. This was sixteen years after the same Pontiff defined the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, on the same day, in 1854, with the Apostolic Constitution Ineffabilis Deus. That was also the year the Pope began his long sojourn as the 'prisoner
- [The Foster-Father of All of Us](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/19/the-foster-father-of-all-of-us/) - Growing up, I didn’t really have a father figure. Because of that, I didn’t have much respect for the vocation of a father or a husband. It felt distant, almost irrelevant—like something I couldn’t fully understand or trust. But during my conversion, that began to shift in an unexpected way. What first drew me to
- [Two Great Bookend Popes on Saint Joseph](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/19/two-great-bookend-popes-on-saint-joseph/) - I think of Pope Leo XIII (the last pope of that name, who reigned from 1878 to 1903, after whom the current pope took his own title) and Pope Saint John Paul II (from 1978 to 2005) as 'bookends' of a sort. They both wrote much, on similar themes, in different ways, to be sure,
- [One Simple Thing Families Can do to Help Restore Unity in Our Countries](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/09/one-simple-thing-families-can-do-to-help-restore-unity-in-our-countries/) - There’s so much talk in the news right now about how we can unite as a region at a time when we’re more divided than ever. Often, we turn to policy to answer this question. But it’s so much bigger than that. And while the problem is big, I believe it’s actually the little things
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/19/48293/) - When you invoke Saint Joseph, you don’t have to speak much. You know your Father in heaven knows what you need; well, so does His friend Saint Joseph. (Saint André Bessette, +1937)
- [Ite Ad Joseph!](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/19/ite-ad-joseph-2/) - A blessed and joyous solemnity of Saint Joseph to all our readers! The strong and silent saint from the Gospel is a fitting one for our troubled times: Husband of the Virgin Mary, and foster father (protector) of the Christ, was proclaimed the patron of this country of Canada at its very origins, by none
- [Homily of Pope Benedict on Saint Joseph](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/19/homily-of-pope-benedict-on-saint-joseph/) - APOSTOLIC JOURNEY OF THE HOLY FATHER BENEDICT XVI TO CAMEROON AND ANGOLA (MARCH 17-23, 2009) EUCHARISTIC CELEBRATION ON THE OCCASION OF THE PUBLICATION OF THE INSTRUMENTUM LABORIS HOMILY OF THE HOLY FATHER BENEDICT XVI Amadou Ahidjo Stadium of Yaoundé Thursady, 19 March 2009 Dear Brother Bishops, Dear Brothers and Sisters, Praised be Jesus Christ who has gathered
- [Saint Cyril of Jerusalem: The Renewal of Catechetics](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/18/cyril-of-jerusalem-and-the-need-for-catechetics/) - The saints during Lent - with few exceptions, such as Saint Joseph - are celebrated as muted 'commemorations', but that does not decrease their significance as saints, and we should still remember them for what their always remarkable and unique lives have to teach us. So it is with Saint Cyril of Jerusalem (315 -
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Cyril](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/18/saint-cyrils-battle-against-arianism/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 27 June 2007 Saint Cyril of Jerusalem Dear Brothers and Sisters, Our attention today is focused on St Cyril of Jerusalem. His life is woven of two dimensions: on the one hand, pastoral care, and on the other, his involvement, in spite of himself, in the
- [Saint Patrick and His Emerald Isle](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/17/saint-patrick-and-his-emerald-isle/) - A very happy Saint Patrick’s Day, to all our readers, and we extend that to all who are of Irish lineage, or those who would like to be, or those who just enjoy participating in the rich culture of the Emerald Isle in a more spiritual and vicarious way, which pretty much includes everyone. After
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/17/48276/) - If I have any worth, it is to live my life for God so as to teach these peoples; even though some of them still look down on me. (Saint Patrick, of the Irish - and what was true back then, is still true today)
- [Fourth Sunday of Lent: Siloam and Spiritual Blindness](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/14/fourth-sunday-of-lent-siloam-and-spiritual-blindness/) - Once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light – for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and true (Eph. 5:8-9). The account of the cure of the blind man at the pool of Siloam, like the account of the conversation
- [Audi Benigne Conditor: An Introduction to the Latin Poetry of the Church](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/12/audi-benigne-conditor-an-introduction-to-the-latin-poetry-of-the-church/) - Should it please the reader to explore the Church’s rich repository of Latin poetry, I shall gladly introduce you. Surely, it is a noble study which you undertake, and I hope to direct your desire to profitably see its fulfillment. Our holy Mother, the Church, possesses an inexhaustible library of sacred verses for our ædification
- [The Weight of Conversion](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/13/the-weight-of-conversion/) - As of this writing, I have 53 days until I am confirmed into the Catholic Church. An astonishing thing for many reasons. Mainly because I never thought there would be a day I would become a “heretic” as I formerly believed – but there are much more nuanced reasons than that. I have learned a
- [The Moral Quagmire of Total War and Unconditional Surrender](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/13/the-moral-quagmire-of-total-war-and-unconditional-surrender/) - War is always a bad business, even in the most just of them, the criteria for which the current conflagration does not seem fit. Whatever one's view, as one of the worst of evils to afflict Man – along with plagues and, say, giant asteroids – we should strive to keep wars as brief as
- [Music, Joy, Laetare and Lent](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/15/music-offering-laetare-and-lent/) - Laetare Sunday marks the halfway point of Lent. It is so named after the Introit, from Isaiah 66:10–11 and Psalms 121:1. Lætare Jerusalem et conventum facite omnes qui diligitis eam; gaudete cum lætitia, qui in tristitia fuistis, ut exsultetis et satiemini ab uberibus consolationis vestrae. Psalm: Lætatus sum in his quæ dicta sunt mihi: in domum
- [If Ye Love Me](https://catholicinsight.com/2023/06/22/if-ye-love-me/) - As we celebrate two of the greatest of Englishmen - More and Fisher, of course - here is a 1565 motet by Thomas Tallis, one of the greatest of English composers (along with William Byrd), If Ye Love Me, which advocates, as the text continues, 'keep my commandments'. This was at the height of the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/15/48258/) - I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life (John 8:12)
- [Pilgrimage to the Martyrs](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/13/pilgrimage-to-the-martyrs/) - Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College is embarking tomorrow on our annual pilgrimage to Martyrs' Shrine in Midland, following the steps of Saints Jean de Brebeuf, Gabriel Lalemant and their companions who gave their lives for Christ, for Canada, and for the people they loved so much. They prayed for their torturers and executioners, and
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/12/48239/) - The greatness of contemplation can be given to none but those who love. (Saint Gregory the Great, +604)
- [Abuse of Language, Abuse of Power](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/11/abuse-of-language-abuse-of-power-2/) - (The Liberals are fast-tracking Bill C-9 through parliament, which will make illegal 'hate speech', vaguely defined, and punishable by two years to life imprisonment. Specifically, the new bill seeks to remove 'religious exemption' from legitimate criticism of the nefarious, or at least controversial, beliefs and practices of certain 'protected groups'. Our Canadian bishops, not often
- [Abuse of Language, Abuse of Power](https://catholicinsight.com/2021/01/29/abuse-of-language-abuse-of-power/) - (I thought a re-post of these thoughts from nearly five years ago now (!) was a propos, given our current Alice-in-Wonderland-cum-1984 world, making our way, as others have said, through a blizzard of lies. Having lived through the terrorism and boot-in-your-face of the Nazis, Josef Pieper warned four decades ago of the evil warping of
- [The Forty Martyrs of Sebaste](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/10/the-forty-martyrs-of-sebaste/) - We would remiss on this March 10th if we didn’t mention the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste, a group of elite Roman legionaries – called the Fulminata (‘the ligthning’ regiment) - who en masse professed Christianity, and were condemned to death. This was under the persecution of Emperor Licinius in the east. He would meet his
- [Eleganti Sums up the SSPX](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/10/eleganti-sums-up-the-sspxs-situation/) - Bishop Marian Eleganti, auxiliary emeritus of Chur, Switzerland, through which I happened to pilgrimage last summer, sums up the irregular situation of the SSPX. His thoughts bear pondering: Firstly, acting with full autonomy without papal mandate or confirmed mission; secondly, operating with bishops not in union with the Pope and the episcopal college; thirdly, maintaining
- [Saint John Ogilvie, the Last Martyr of Scotland](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/10/saint-john-ogilvie-the-last-martyr-of-scotland-and-the-reformation/) - John Ogilvie was born in 1579, just as the Protestant 'reformation' was taking hold in Britain, including his native land of Scotland, led by the fiery apostate priest John Knox. Catholicism would soon be all-but wiped out in dear Alba, signified by the death of our saint. Although raised in his first formative years by
- [Lenten Reflection From Bishop Erik Varden](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/09/lenten-thoughts-from-bishop-vardens/) - Bishop Erik Varden, OCSO, a Cistercian Trappist, converted to Catholicism in 2002, and, after years of study at Cambridge and Rome - he is an expert in Syriac - was ordained to the priesthood on the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in 2011, and a decade later, was consecrated bishop of Trondheim, Norway
- [Saint Frances of Rome - Finding Your Path in Unexpected Ways](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/09/saint-frances-of-rome-then-and-now/) - We should not be surprised that the saints speak to us through the ages. How they responded in their own era with its own troubles and crises offers us an example for how to act in our own. As well, they intercede for us, that we, like them, may fulfill God's holy and perfect will.
- [Will the World Return to Religion?  A Public Debate in New York City between Clarence Darrow and G.K. Chesterton](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/28/will-the-world-return-to-religion-a-public-debate-in-new-york-city-between-clarence-darrow-and-g-k-chesterton/) - (This is a longer read from long-time contributor Carl Sundell, which may well be his swan song, even if we hope for more from his delightful pen. Perhaps peruse this in sections, for there is much to be gained in this window of how men used to debate, even those who differed deeply, as gentlemen
- [Saint Casimir the Chaste, Patron of Poland](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/04/saint-casimir-of-poland/) - (Today's saint, one of the patrons of Poland, and of Lithuania, whose very name means 'bearer of peace', makes a very a propos intercessor for our troubled world. May peace prevail.) Ed. Saint Casimir died young - as the good often do - entering eternity on this day, March 4th, 1484, at the tender age
- [Katharine Drexel: The First All American Saint](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/03/mother-drexels-legacy/) - Mother Katharine Mary Drexel (1858 - 1955) is a fitting intercessor for the racial tensions afflicting her native United States. For one thing, she is the first natural born canonized American citizen (Elizabeth Ann Seton was born in 1774, in what would become that nation a few years later). A young debutante who inherited her
- [Saint Colette of Corbie](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/06/saint-colette-of-corbie/) - Nicole Boellet (1381 - 1447) was a miraculous birth. Her childless, elderly parents, Robert and Marguerite, prayed to Saint Nicholas - yes, 'Santa Claus' - that they might conceive, and lo and behold, as he often does, old Saint Nick came through with his gift. Marguerite conceived at the age of 60 (! - and
- [The Radical Prodigal, Saint John of God](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/08/the-radical-prodigal-saint-john-of-god/) - Saints are by definition ‘extreme’, for they live a liminal life, on the very threshold of eternity, seeing past the veil of this world. Hence, they act as though all that mattered were the next life, which, in the end, is true. Contrary to John Lennon, they more than imagine - they fully believe, and
- [Saints Perpetua, Felicity...and Thomas Aquinas](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/07/thomas-perpetua-and-felicity/) - Today marks the memorial of the early martyrs Perpetua and Felicity, put to death likely in the year 203, under the reign of Septimius Severus, an emperor who seems on the whole to have been well-disposed to Christians. But the true religion was still one hundred and ten years away from being legally recognized by
- [Third Sunday of Lent: Thirsting for the True Water of Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/08/third-sunday-and-thirsting-at-the-well-for-the-water-of-life/) - ‘Give me a drink’ (Jn. 4:7). The conversation of Our Lord and the Samaritan woman revolves around the gift of water. This request is presented to us to contemplate on this third Sunday in Lent; and it is a request that we will hear again during the Commemoration of the Passion of Our Lord when
- [Why and Wherefore Forever War?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/04/why-and-wherefore-war/) - 'Epic Fury', the attack on Iran by the United States, may last for some weeks yet, according to President Trump. Whether this is justified and proportionate is open to some doubt. The reader may peruse also some of my thoughts on just war theory, and make up their minds whether the criteria fit this conflict.
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/08/48170/) - whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life (John 4:14)
- [The Stabat Mater](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/08/vivaldi-and-piergolesis-stabat-maters/) - For our musical offering on this Third Sunday of Lent, here are a few renditions - amongst many - of the perduring Stabat Mater, the 13th century poem on the sorrows of Mary 'standing by the Cross', attributed to the Franciscan Jacopone de Todi, or, some say, Saint Bonaventure or Pope Innocent III. Here is
- [Daylight Savings Time Doesn't Save Much](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/07/daylight-savings-time/) - Remember to turn your clocks forward for Daylight Savings Time this evening, March 8th, a 2 am to be precise. Or, at least, since most of us keep time using digital devices, which automatically adjust, one should psychologically prepare for one hour less sleep. One would hope that this measure would have ended a long
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/05/48134/) - If I were not a Catholic, and were looking for the true Church in the world today, I would look for the one Church which did not get along well with the world; in other words, I would look for the Church which the world hated. (Bishop Fulton Sheen, +1979)
- [Bishop Sheen and the Shocking Scandal of the Eucharist](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/05/bishop-shee-and-the-shocking-scandal-of-the-eucharist/) - Fulton Sheen’s beatification continues. And I’d like to draw attention to something he once wrote:, “The greatest love story of all time is contained in a tiny white Host,” and that sentence alone has more theological density than most religious commentary produced in a year. Consequently, if we are going to speak about Sheen, we
- [What Hold Has China Over the Vatican?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/05/what-hold-has-china-over-the-vatican/) - Here is a disconcerting exchange between Pope Leo XIV and an EWTN reporter, when the Pope is asked to comment on the case of Jimmy Lai. As readers may know, Jimmy Lai is a Catholic entrepreneur and businessman, who persevered through years of threats to stand up for basic human rights and freedom against the
- [The Church and China](https://catholicinsight.com/2018/02/12/the-church-and-china/) - It was a dramatic scene: venerable Cardinal Zen, bishop emeritus of Hong Kong, a lifelong foe and survivor of Communism in China, a spiritual hero and living saint, showing up outside Saint Peter’s demanding that the Pope receive a letter he had written, criticizing the Vatican’s recent overtures and agreements with the Communist regime. It
- [How Byzantine Spirituality Speaks to the Contemporary West](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/25/how-byzantine-spirituality-speaks-to-the-contemporary-west/) - Western culture is marked by a strange double-bind. It is interminably fast-moving yet restless, hyper-connected and yet crushingly lonely, materially comfortable and at the same time spiritually exhausted. The endless abundance of our technological age has given us everything imaginable under the sun, except peace of mind. Into this post-modern landscape, the ancient specter of
- [First Sunday of Lent: Purified and Perfected by Penance](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/22/first-sunday-of-lent-purified-and-perfected-by-penance/) - After Jesus was baptized, the Spirit drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan (Mk. 1:12). On Ash Wednesday we began the observance of the holy season of Lent with the imposition of blessed ashes, an external sign of our interior resolve to undertake Lenten penance; so
- [Second Sunday of Lent, and Seeing Beyond Our Eyes](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/01/second-sunday-of-lent-and-seeing-beyond-our-eyes/) - Are old people wise? Have they learned anything from experience? Or are they all curmudgeons, continually grumbling about the young generation and contrasting it unfavourably with the way things used to be? Well, as an old man myself, I may observe that it is possible to be both wise and curmudgeonly at one and the
- [The Perils of Sedevacantism](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/27/48031/) - (With John-Henry Westen of LifeSite raising the question of sedevacantism, urging a petition for the cardinals to question the validity of Francis' and Leo's papacies, here is a re-post of something I wrote earlier, on why we must tread with great caution in declaring a papacy, or any given pope, null and void. Whatever good
- [SSPX Plans to Cross the Rubicon...but the Wrong Way: Alea Iacta Est?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/24/sspx-plans-to-cross-the-rubicon-but-the-wrong-way-alea-iacta-est/) - Well, perhaps it was inevitable, given the intractability: The SSPX has decided to go ahead with the ordination of bishops on July 1st, 2026, which is just about 38 years to the day after the first illicit consecrations on June 30th, 1988. When we say 'illicit', it means 'against the law', or at least not in
- [Saint David, of Wales](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/01/saint-david-of-wales/) - A brief note on Saint David, the sixth-century monastic bishop, now patron, of Wales, born at an unknown date, but who likely died on this day, March 1st, in 589, based on what evidence we have. He was acclaimed bishop after an eloquent sermon he gave, denouncing the lingering heresy of Pelagianism - that we
- [Saint Gregory Narek, Mystic, Monk and Doctor](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/27/saint-gregory-narek-mystic-monk-and-doctor/) - The Armenian monk Gregory Narek (Grigor Narekatsi), whose life spanned the latter half of the 11th century (ca. 950 - 1003), was enrolled amongst the elite Doctors of the Church by Pope Francis in 2015, and soon afterwards placed in the universal liturgical calendar. His life was externally uneventful, at least in a worldly sense.
- [One Stop Death Shop](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/26/one-stop-death-shop/) - Well, it's certainly convenient, as well as profitable: A funeral home in Vancouver that will kill you, then cremate your body - or, if you insist, they'll bury you in one of those 'ecologically insensitive' coffins. Tut, tut. Why not just go straight to compost? The murder is less expensive than disposal of the resulting
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/03/01/48070/) - In him the promise made through the shadows of prophecy stands revealed, along with the full meaning of the precepts of the law. He is the one who teaches the truth of the prophecy through his presence, and makes obedience to the commandments possible through grace. (Pope Saint Leo the Great, +461)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/28/48064/) - To love means loving the unlovable. To forgive means pardoning the unpardonable. Faith means believing the unbelievable. Hope means hoping when everything seems hopeless. (GK Chesterton, +1936)
- [Benedict's Resignation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/28/benedicts-resignation-eleven-years-on/) - Hard to believe that it was a fateful thirteen years ago on this February 28th that Pope Benedict XVI resigned the papacy, the first Pope to do so since Gregory XII, who voluntarily stepped down towards the close of the Council of Constance (1415) to end what has come to be known as the 'Great
- [SSPX and the Staying in Barque of Peter](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/22/sspx-and-the-barque-of-peter/) - Things are, shall we say, fractious in the Church, when an Irish priest likens receiving Communion on the tongue to ‘feeding animals’, while the bishop of Charlotte forbids altar rails and discourages kneeling. Latin and chant are almost non-existent outside a few refuges. Liturgical aberrations, if not abuses, great and small, abound. Yet what is
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2023/02/27/35934-2/) - In the face of my darkness, you are light. In the face of my mortality, you are life (Saint Gregory Narek, +1003)
- [Saint Gabriel Possenti - God, Prayer...and Guns?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/27/saint-gabriel-possenti-god-and-guns/) - Gabriel of the Seven Sorrows, who died on this day in 1862, may be seen as a kind of male Saint Thérèse, but, as in all things male and female, they were also quite different; Both were difficult, willful children, but managed, by the grace of God, to bend those wills to God's will. Like
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/25/48011/) - Jesus, son of Nun, led the people across the Jordan into the promised land. Jesus, our Saviour, has promised the land of the living to all who have crossed the true Jordan, and have believed and are circumcised in heart. (Saint Aphraates, +345)
- [Saint Polycarp: Boldness and Baked Bread](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/23/polycarps-early-witness-baked-bread-and-boldness/) - The Church has had martyrs since her earliest days, and will have them unto the end of time. A number of prophecies attest that the number of martyrs towards the end will exceed those of all other centuries, and our times attest to that. But today, we look way back in time, to one of
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/22/47937/) - See yourself as tempted in him, and see yourself as victorious in him. He could have kept the devil from himself; but if he were not tempted he could not teach you how to triumph over temptation. (Saint Augustine, +430)
- [Leaning on Peter's Chair](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/22/discerning-the-chair-of-peter/) - The Chair of Saint Peter, is a comforting one, a symbol of the 'pillar and bulwark' of the truth, which is the Church, signifying by synecdoche the office of the papacy, instituted by Christ, as recounted in today's Gospel from the sixteenth chapter of Saint Matthew: Simon Peter replied, "You are the Christ, the Son
- [Pope John Paul II and the Chair of Peter](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/22/pope-john-paul-ii-and-the-chair-of-peter/) - EUCHARISTIC CELEBRATION WITH THE NEW CARDINALS HOMILY OF JOHN PAUL II Thursday, 22 February 2001 Feast of Saint Peter's Chair 1. "'Who do you say that I am?'. Simon Peter replied, 'You are the Christ, the Son of the living God'" (Mt 16: 15-16). This conversation between Christ and his disciples, which we have just heard again, is always
- [Saint Peter Damian and Pope Benedict](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/21/pope-benedict-and-damian/) - Not many in the hierarchy write like Saint Peter Damian (+1072) anymore, whose direct and blunt condemnation of the unnatural sexual sins of the clergy he condemns in his vivid Book of Gomorrah, as told in summary form by Carl Sundell. Then again, not many today in the hierarchy write like Pope Benedict XVI, who,
- [Saints Cyril and Methodius, and, Yes, Valentine](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/14/from-your-valentine-cyril-and-methodius/) - On this fourteenth of February, in the universal calendar we celebrate the ninth-century monks and missionaries Saints Cyril and Methodius, patrons of Europe, who translated the Liturgy into Slavonic, with Cyril constructing the Glagolitic and Cyrillic alphabets for this purpose. This vernacular allowed for the conversion of untold thousands into the Church. (See Father Attard’s
- [The Seven Servite Saints of the Virgin Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/17/the-servites-of-mary/) - The Seven Founders of the Servite Order commemorate the group of merchants who in 1233 left everything to follow Christ, with a special devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly in her own union in the Passion of her Son under the title of Our Lady of Sorrows. They each received an independent vision from Our
- [The Ministerial Priesthood and St. Maximillian Kolbe](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/19/the-ministerial-priesthood-and-st-maximillian-kolbe/) - Nothing is more doomed to failure than a layperson trying to tell the clergy what they ought to do. Well, perhaps if such a person held several academic degrees in Theology or Mariology, or bore visible stigmata, they might garner a moment’s interest. Otherwise, in the best-case scenario, they are destined to hear those all-too-familiar
- [Blessed Jacinta and Francisco Marto - The Youngest Canonized Saints, but Not the Least](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/20/blessed-jacinta-and-francisco-marto-the-youngest-of-saints/) - On this day in 1920, February 20th, nine-year old Jacinta Marto died after great suffering, as she lay alone in a hospital bed. She had endured for weeks, including a vain attempt to alleviate her symptoms by removing two of her ribs, without proper anesthetic. The same illness had claimed her ten-year old brother, Francisco,
- [Distributism: The Original ‘Third Way’ for Shared Ownership, Social Justice, and Economic Equality & Democracy](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/16/distributism-the-original-third-way-for-shared-ownership-social-justice-and-economic-equality-democracy/) - (Contributor Tadgh Quil-Manley offers a reflection here on distributism, an economic philosophy derived by Chesterton, Belloc and others from Leo XIII's landmark encyclical, Rerum Novarum. Readers, myself included, may take some pause over the notion herein of a 'universal basic income', but much depends on how one understands and implements such terms and concepts, in
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/19/47901/) - Dear friends, what the Christian should be doing at all times should be done now with greater care and devotion, so that the Lenten fast enjoined by the apostles may be fulfilled, not simply by abstinence from food but above all by the renunciation of sin. (Pope Saint Leo the Great, +461)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/18/47894/) - Remember Man hat thou art dust and unto dust thou shalt return (Genesis 3:19)
- [Remember Man, That Thou Art Dust...Pope Benedict and Ash Wednesday](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/18/pope-benedicts-ash-wednesday-address-2011/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 9 March 2011 Ash Wednesday Dear Brothers and Sisters, On this day, marked by the austere symbol of ashes, we enter the Season of Lent, beginning a spiritual journey that prepares us for celebrating worthily the Easter Mysteries. The blessed ashes imposed upon our forehead are a
- [Nietzsche and Tumbler](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/14/nietzsche-tumbler-and-transgenderism/) - Nietzsche either warned or advocated - depending on your point of view - the transvaluation of all values, which is to say, the inversion of the moral law. After all, from his perspective, after the 'death of God', there was no moral law, and never has been. Christianity was invented to keep the masses subservient,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/14/47877/) - Make your people known for the unity and profession of their faith. Inspire the hearts of your people with your word and your teaching. You called us to preach the Gospel of your Christ and to encourage them to lives and works pleasing to you. (Saint Cyril, +869)
- [The Formidable Forgiveness of Josephine Bakhita](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/08/sister-saint-josephine-bakhita-infinite-mercy/) - On this day in 1947, February 8th, Sister Josephine Bakhita completed the long and eventful journey of her life. Born around 1869 - she was never quite sure the precise date or year - her childhood was spent happy and fulfilled growing up in the region of Darfur, Sudan, which was not then the dystopic
- [The Salvific Message of Lourdes](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/11/the-hopeful-message-of-lourdes/) - Our Lady of Lourdes is one of the few visions of the Virgin Mary to be placed in the public Liturgical calendar of the universal Church, along with her appearances at Fatima and Guadalupe. All three have in common that the visionaries to whom Our Lady manifested herself were simple, unlettered peasants, the anawim, the
- [Harvesting the Living](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/12/harvesting-the-living-or-is-that-mostly-dead/) - The words themselves are chilling: 'Pre-death approval by the coroner': And on it goes into the abyss: "17: The Chief Coroner may allow the removal of organs or tissue after the death of a person notwithstanding that death has not yet occurred if: (a) in the opinion of a physician the death of the person
- [Anastasia - the Musical!](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/11/anastasia-the-musical/) - I'd like to say publicly that the students here at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, under the direction of our staff and faculty, did a wonderful, even a quasi-miraculous, job with the musical Anastasia - the vivid acting, the coordinated harmonized singing, the choreography (from waltz to ballet), the scenes, the incredible live music
- [John Paul II at Lourdes](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/11/john-paul-ii-at-lourdes/) - PILGRIMAGE OF HIS HOLINESS JOHN PAUL II TO LOURDES ON THE OCCASION OF 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PROMULGATION OF THE DOGMA OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION HOMILY OF THE HOLY FATHER JOHN PAUL II Prairie de la Ribère Sunday, 15 August 2004 1. "Que soy era Immaculada Councepciou". The words which Mary spoke to Bernadette on 25 March
- [The Last Visit of Scholastica and Benedict](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/10/scholastica-and-benedict/) - Saint Scholastica (+543) was the sister - some sources say the twin - of Saint Benedict. Like her brother, she forsook everything to follow Christ, setting up a community of virgins at the foot of her brother's monastery at Monte Cassino, where she too followed the path of orans et laborans, praying and working, which
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/10/47844/) - It is not surprising that she was more effective than he, since as John says, God is love, it was absolutely right that she could do more, as she loved more. (Said of Saint Scholastica, by Saint Gregory the Great)
- [(In)Voluntary Euthanasia?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/09/involuntary-euthanasia/) - A woman in Canada was recently euthanized against her will, making a macabre mockery of the 'free choice' aspect of this evil. God rest her soul, but she is the canary in the proverbial coal mine, a 'hard' case that will make the future 'cases' all the easier. After heart surgery, the woman was ailing,
- [By the Teeth of Saint Apollonia](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/09/by-the-teeth-of-saint-apollonia/) - Saint Apollonia (+249) was a virgin martyr put to death under the reign of Philip the Arab, just before the far more violent persecution under his successor, Decius. She was known as a 'deaconess', which was not an ordained order, for the Greek term diakonos simply means a 'minister', as in, those who helped in
- [Homily at the Mass of Blessed Josephine Bakhita](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/08/homily-at-the-mass-of-blessed-josephine-bakhita/) - APOSTOLIC JOURNEY TO BENIN, UGANDA AND KHARTOUM (SUDAN) EUCHARISTIC CONCELEBRATION IN HONOR OF BLESSED JOSEPHINE BAKHITA HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS JOHN PAUL II Green Square, Khartoum (Sudan) Wednesday, 10 February 1993 "Come to me, all you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest" (Mt. 11: 28). Dear Brothers and
- [The Charism of Saint John Bosco](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/31/boscos-gift/) - The term 'charismatic' has an ambiguous meaning in the Church, invoking images of liturgical guitars, drums, emotional crescendos, and disconcerting glossolalia. In the Church's theology, however, it has a rather specific meaning, derived from Saint Paul's letters: A 'charism', from the Greek word for 'grace', Χάρις is a gratia gratis data, a gift, talent, ministry,
- [Saint Bridget of Ireland](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/01/saint-bridget-of-ireland/) - Saint Bridget of Kildare (451 – 525), who lived a century after Saint Patrick (385 – 461), and a century before Saint Columbanus (543 – 615) shares with them the triumvirate patronage of Ireland. A generation younger than Saint Benedict (480 – 547) Bridget flourished during the early days of formal monasticism, the female version
- [Saint Agatha, the Good and Noble Martyr](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/05/18833-2/) - Saint Agatha (+251) is counted amongst the most venerated of the 'virgin martyrs', one of the seven women whose name appears in the Canon of the Mass. Having made a vow of virginity, Agatha, under the reign of Emperor Decius, was condemned as a Christian by a certain pagan suitor, Quintianus, whom she rebuffed -
- [Entropic AI](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/28/ai-abba-and-entropy/) - Entropy may be described as the tendency of all things degrade, to move from order to disorder, from cosmos to chaos, from specificity to entropy. It is the inevitable consequence of any closed system, and encapsulated as the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Any such system - whether that be a machine, a living organism, a
- [Can the Legionaries Truly Be Reformed?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/29/can-the-legionaries-truly-be-reformed/) - The Legionaries of Christ are currently gathered for their General Chapter, held every six years. This is in accord with the principle of semper reformanda. Every society, especially those in the Church, and even the Church herself, stand always in need of reform, for there is no standing still in the spiritual life. Such a
- [Cody Lambert, a ’90s Sitcom Hero, and the Catholic Moral Imagination](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/01/cody-lambert-a-90s-sitcom-hero-and-the-catholic-moral-imagination/) - Over the past few months, I have found myself scrolling through Facebook Reels that surface fragments of 1990s television, shows like Step by Step, Saved by the Bell, and Beverly Hills, 90210, programs that quietly shaped the moral and emotional imagination of a generation. Cody Lambert, played by Sasha Mitchell, the surfer-kickboxer nephew in the
- [Paul Miki and Companion Martyrs of Japan](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/06/fishers-of-men-paul-miki-and-companions/) - Today, 6 February, is the feast of Saint Paul Miki and his (twenty-five) companions who were tortured and executed in Nagasaki, Japan, in 1597. “After Christ’s example, I forgive my persecutors. I do not hate them. I ask God to have pity on all, and I hope my blood will fall on my fellow men
- [The Joyful Japanese Martyrs of Nagasaki](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/06/the-joyful-japanese-martrys-of-nagasaki/) - Today is the feast of Saint Paul Miki and Companion martyrs, put to death by crucifixion and impaling on February 5, 1597 at Nagasaki, Japan, amongst the hundreds, if not thousands, who witnessed for the Faith in those tumultuous missionary times; their example offers a healthy antidote to the rather darker and, to be quite
- [Don Bosco, Still Teaching in the Hallway](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/30/don-bosco-still-teaching-in-the-hallway/) - On joy, presence, young love, and the quiet holiness of Catholic education There’s a particular kind of sound you only hear in a school: a quick burst of laughter that tries to hide itself, the shuffle of sneakers between classes, the rhythmic thud of lockers, and the sudden hush when a student realizes you’re closer
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/06/22709-2/) - As I come to this supreme moment of my life, I am sure none of you would suppose I want to deceive you. And so I tell you plainly: there is no way to be saved except the Christian way. My religion teaches me to pardon my enemies and all who have offended me. I
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/05/47796/) - O Lord who made and created me, and have kept me from my infancy, … who took from me the love of the world, who have kept my body from pollution, who made me to overcome the executioner’s torments, iron, fire and chains, who gave me the virtue of patience in the midst of torments,
- [Saints Blaise and Ansgar](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/03/two-martyrs-for-one-blaise-and-ansgar/) - Saint Blaise, a bishop of ancient Sebastea (now in Turkey), was also a physician, like Saint Luke, a healer of body and soul. And, we may add, a martyr, tortured to death for the faith in 316 A.D., a scant three years after Constantine declared the faith legally sanctioned in Roman law by the Edict
- [Musical Offering: Bach's Cantata for the Purification of Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/02/musical-offering-bachs-cantata-for-the-purification-of-mary/) - J.S. Bach was a devout Lutheran, and, unlike some of the Protestant sects, had a great devotion to Our Lady. In 1725, on this February 2nd, the Feast of her Purification, when we also celebrate the Presentation of our Lord, Bach first performed his cantata he had composed for the occasion, Mit Fried und Freud
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/02/39227-2/) - The true light has come, the light that enlightens every man who is born into this world. Let all of us, my brethren, be enlightened and made radiant by this light. Let all of us share in its splendour, and be so filled with it that no one remains in the darkness. (Saint Sophronius, +638)
- [Pope Saint John Paul and the Presentation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/02/02/pope-saint-john-paul-the-presentation-and-the-world-day-for-consecrated-life/) - (A blessed feast to all our readers! In 1997 Pope Saint John Paul II declared this ancient feast of the Presentation - also known as Candlemas - as the World Day for Consecrated Life, with the Christ-child 'offered' to God the Father. Whatever our own path and vocation, may we too give ourselves completely to
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/31/42797-2/) - The power of evil men lives on the cowardice of the good. (Saint John Bosco, +1888)
- [Freedom from Spiritual Slavery: Following the Example of Christ](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/12/freedom-from-slavery-following-the-example-of-jesus/) - (As we enter back into 'ordinary time', we follow the public life of our Saviour, His three years of ministry before His Passion, Death and Resurrection, for which prepare during Lent, and celebrate at Easter. Alleluia. So here is a meditation from new contributor Father Richard Gribble, C.S.C., on Christ freeing us from many bondages
- [Thomas Aquinas: The Universal and Angelic Doctor](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/28/the-enduring-value-of-thomas-aquinas/) - (Last year marked the 800th anniversary of the birth of Saint Thomas Aquinas, who came into this world on this January 28th, 1225. The great saint and doctor died in 1274, and was canonized July 18th, 1323, by the Avignon Pope, John XXII. Good thing, too, for Pope John was one of the pontiffs accused
- [The Digital World and the Crisis of the Modern Mind](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/24/the-digital-world-and-the-crisis-of-the-modern-mind/) - The medium is the message (Marshall McLuhan, 1964) The invention of the digital world is supposed to be celebrated as a triumph of shared knowledge and digital access. On the surface, such a celebration feels deserved. An entire library now sits within reach even of a child’s pocket. Facts once buried in reference shelves now
- [Thomas' Pange Lingua](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/28/thomas-pange-lingua/) - Saint Thomas Aquinas spent some time in the early 1260's in the beautiful Italian city of Orvieto, perched way high up on a promontory, about an hour outside Rome. When I visited there years ago, we had to take a cable car to the top. It was here, in the glorious cathedral, that Thomas commissioned by
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/28/47719/) - Grant me, O Lord my God, a mind to know you, a heart to seek you, wisdom to find you, conduct pleasing to you, faithful perseverance in waiting for you, and a hope of finally embracing you. (Saint Thomas Aquinas, +1274)
- [Saint Thomas and the Unborn](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/28/saint-thomas-abortion-and-dr-adasevics-conversion/) - Today's feast of the great priest and doctor of the Church, Saint Thomas Aquinas, is also the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s 1988 striking down of the abortion laws put in place in 1969 under Pierre Elliot Trudeau. The court ordered parliament to come up with a new law, which it has never done, thus
- [Pope Benedict XVI and the Enduring Value of Saint Thomas Aquinas](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/28/the-enduring-value-of-saint-thomas-aquinas-part-2/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 2 June 2010 Saint Thomas Aquinas (1) Dear Brothers and Sisters, After several Catecheses on the priesthood and on my latest Journeys, today we return to our main theme: meditation on some of the great thinkers of the Middle Ages. We recently looked at the great
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/27/47709/) - Disorder in society is the result of disorder in the family. (Saint Angela Merici, +1540)
- [Apologetics 101, Question 11: How do you know for a certainty that Christ performed miracles?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/27/apologetics-101-question-11-how-do-you-know-for-a-certainty-that-christ-performed-miracles/) - In response to Catholic Insight’s post of Carl Sundell’s list of 39 essential questions Catholics should be prepared to answer about our faith, I have been responding to them one-by-one to equip you with clear, concise and (hopefully) well-reasoned answers to help you grow and share your Faith. None of these answers can be conclusive. Similar to the opening disclaimer of the previous article about the reliability of the Bible, an apologetic for every single one of Christ’s miracles would be a task more befitting of a book than an article.
- [Saint Angela Merici and the Ursulines](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/27/saint-ursulas-women/) - Saint Angela Merici (+1540) lived and died in Italy, growing up to adulthood during the tumultuous events of the early Reformation (she went to eternity five years after the erstwhile chancellor and martyr Thomas More, and six years before Martin Luther faced his God). Yet Angela's own life was not involved in these external events.
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/26/47693/) - But as for you, man of God, shun all this; aim at righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (1 Timothy 6:11b-12)
- [Pope Benedict, Timothy and Titus](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/26/pope-benedict-timothy-and-titus/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 13 December 2006 Timothy and Titus Dear Brothers and Sisters, Having spoken at length on the great Apostle Paul, today let us look at his two closest collaborators: Timothy and Titus. Three Letters traditionally attributed to Paul are addressed to them, two to Timothy and one
- [Anglicanism, Catholicism, Thomism and Ecumenism...](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/24/anglicanism-catholicism-de-sales-and-saint-thomas/) - The greatest kindness one can render to any man consists in leading him from error to truth (Saint Thomas Aquinas, +1274) If there is a patron saint of ecumenism, Saint Francis de Sales fits the bill, with his gentle yet firm – suaviter et fortiter – evangelization of the hardened Calvinists of Geneva. As the
- [Saint Paul's Conversion](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/25/pope-benedict-and-saint-pauls-conversion/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 3 September 2008 Saint Paul (3) St Paul's "Conversion". Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today's Catechesis is dedicated to the experience that Paul had on his way to Damascus, and therefore on what is commonly known as his conversion. It was precisely on the road to Damascus,
- [Pope Pius XI's Letter on Saint Francis de Sales](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/24/a-hundred-years-ago-pius-xi-and-saint-francis-de-sales/) - (On the 26th of January, 1923, Pope Pius XI promulgated an encyclical on Saint Francis de Sales on the 300th anniversary of his death, a very profitable read on this his feast, a 'sure remedy' as he says in the first lines, for 'the great evils' threatening our world, which have only increased in the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/24/47680/) - Faith is like a bright ray of sun light. It enables us to see God in all things as well as all things in God. (Saint Francis de Sales, +1622)
- [Saint Francis de Sales and the Joy of Salvation](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/24/the-other-saint-francis/) - A few words on this feast of the patron saint of writers, as well as this week dedicated to Christian unity; Francis de Sales (+1622) expressed, at the height of the divisions and schisms caused by the Protestant 'reformation', the right way to do ecumenism: With a gentle and charitable soul, firmly grounded in truth
- [The Council, the Consistory, Liturgy and Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/23/the-council-the-consistory-liturgy-and-life/) - We live as we pray, for we pray as we live. (CCC, 2725) So it seems the Liturgy was taken off the agenda at the recent consistory of cardinals. Still, the current head of the Dicastery of Divine Worship, British cardinal Arthur Roche, sent around a two-page letter, explaining why a return to the usus
- [Is There Any Hope for the Catholic School System in Ontario?](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/20/is-there-any-hope-for-the-catholic-school-system-in-ontario/) - As students return to school after Christmas holidays, and in light of yesterday’s memorial of founding Catholic educator Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys, I offer these reflections on the (Catholic) public school system here in Ontario. Readers may also peruse Miles Smit's own thoughts in these pages a while back, to which this is something of a
- [Deviance Normalized](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/22/mainstreaming-moral-chaos/) - I've never liked the term 'gay' applied to deviant sexuality. It's a good word - or, perhaps was - meaning happy, joyful. Don we now our gay apparel, and all that, which no longer has the same ring as when the Christmas ballad was first penned by the Scotsman Thomas Oliphant in 1862, to a
- [Baptism of the Lord and the Beginning of His Ministry](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/11/baptism-of-the-messiah/) - ‘This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased’ (Mt. 3:17). ⧾ Today’s Feast of the Lord’s Baptism brings to a completion our celebration of the Feast of Christmas and the Epiphany which we celebrated last Sunday. The Epiphany specifically celebrates the manifestation of Christ Our Lord to the nations and today’s
- [My Peaceful and Profitable Time at the Two Fonts of the Liberal Arts](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/16/my-peaceful-and-profitable-time-at-the-two-fonts-of-the-liberal-arts/) - (New contributor Mary Innerst offers here a reflection of the beauty of her time studying at the ITI - the International Theological Institute - in Trumau, Austria, where I spent a delightful few days last summer. Our own liberal arts college, Our Lady Seat of Wisdom, here in the scenic Madawaska Valley, shares a transfer
- [Espousal(s) of the Blessed Virgin Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/23/espousals-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary/) - This day, January 23rd, is the wedding anniversary of the Holy Family, the traditional feast of the espousals of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Yes, you read that right - espousals in the plural, both to the same good man, Saint Joseph. It the Jewish tradition, a bride was betrothed twice - first, in a formal
- [Nathanson, Roe and the Battle for Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/22/nathanson-roe-and-the-battle-for-life/) - Even though the infamous Roe v. Wade decision has now been cast into the dustbin of history with the Dobbs decision of June 24, 2022 - Deo gratias - we still must continue the battle for life. States are enacting and enforcing radical abortion laws, permitting the killing of the unborn right up to birth,
- [Praying for Christian Unity](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/22/praying-for-christian-unity/) - We're a bit late getting to this - and apologies for that, but better that than never. The best laid plans o' mice and men and a' that. This is the week of prayer for Christian unity, encouraged by Popes from Leo XIII to our current Leo, in these days leading up to the Feast
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/21/47636/) - Christ has assigned to every man the dignity of every woman (Pope Saint John Paul II, +2005)
- [Saint Vincent the Deacon's Silent Witness](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/22/vincent-the-deacons-silent-ordeal/) - Saint Vincent the Deacon (+304), who suffered grievous tortures witnessing to his Catholic faith under the Diocletian persecution (as did yesterday's Saint Agnes) is a providential saint for this sombre anniversary of the 1973 Roe vs. Wade decision of the United States of America which legalized abortion across the nation. But we may also rejoice,
- [Saint Agnes and the Courage of Chastity](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/20/agnes-the-pure/) - 'Tis incumbent upon us in these days, so inimical to anything chaste and pure, to remind ourselves of the genius of the feminine and the glory of woman, signified in saints like Agnes, a young Virgin Martyr, who perished by the sword under the reign of Diocletian in 304. Her name, which sounds like the
- [Saints Fabian and Sebastian: Doing the Holy and Perfect Will of God](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/20/fabian-and-sebastians-choice/) - I appeal to you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God,
- [Darwin's Long Shadow](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/17/darwins-long-shadow/) - (There is no end to the books on Darwin and evolution. Even if the initial controversy has settled down amongst mainstream scientists, questions abound, as the notion of complexity continues to confound the relatively simplistic, original version of Darwin's hypothesis. Human evolution is particularly fraught, especially amongst those who believe that Man is a spiritual
- [Abbot Anthony's Narrow, but Joyful, Way to Heaven](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/17/15672-2/) - Saint Anthony (+356) is commonly called 'the Abbot', or Anthony ‘of Egypt’, where he retreated to the wilderness as a young man to live completely devoted to God and His Christ. His eponym as the 'Abbot’ was given to him as the founder of that perfect and narrow living out of the imitation of Christ
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/16/47616/) - I would rather have learning joined with virtue than all the treasures of kings. (St. Thomas More, +1535)
- [Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys: What Canada Was, and May Be Again](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/12/saint-marguerite-bourgeoys-what-canada-was-and-may-be-again/) - On this January 12th here in Canada we celebrate Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys (1620-1700), founder of the Congregation of Notre-Dame, alongside the first official 'school' in what were the the untamed wilds of Canada. A missionary from France in the mid-seventeenth century, she faced innumerable difficulties in her first years in the nascent Quebec City -
- [Long Live Saint Paul the Hermit!](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/15/saint-paul-the-hermit/) - Saint Paul of Thebes (+ 341) - whom we celebrate either on January 10th or, today, on the 15th - is traditionally considered the first hermit in the Catholic Church, if we don’t include John the Baptist, who is a liminal figure between the two Testaments. But there is a similarity, for as a young
- [Saints Hilary and Mungo Against the Arians](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/13/hilary-mungo-and-ordinary-time/) - On this 13th day of January, in bleak midwinter, we celebrate two saints. The first, in the public calendar, is the great Saint Hilary (+367), Bishop of Poitiers, proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius IX in 1851 for his clear and incisive writings against the pernicious heresy of Arianism, which denied the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/13/47573/) - The perfection of learning is to know God in such a way that, though you realize he is knowable, yet you know him as indescribable. (Saint Hilary of Poitiers, +367)
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Hilary](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/13/pope-benedict-and-saint-hilary/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 10 October 2007 Saint Hilary of Poitiers Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, I would like to talk about a great Father of the Church of the West, St Hilary of Poitiers, one of the important Episcopal figures of the fourth century. In the controversy with the Arians,
- [Living Our Baptism](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/11/living-our-baptism/) - A blessed feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which in the novus ordo normally falls on a Sunday (today is the Feast of the Holy Family in the usus antiquior). A grace-filled one may it be, which feast you celebrate. This Sunday stands for the first Sunday in Ordinary Time. It would be good,
- [Extraordinary Ordinary Time](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/11/extraordinary-ordinary-time/) - With the feast of Christ’s Baptism last Sunday, and the 'Second Sunday' today, we enter back into what we now call ‘Ordinary Time’. We should not misconstrue this term - Ordinary' here means not 'humdrum', but is derived from from the ordinal numbers after which the Sundays are now named, with yesterday being the ‘First’,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/11/47559/) - Today let us do honour to Christ’s baptism and celebrate this feast in holiness. Be cleansed entirely and continue to be cleansed. Nothing gives such pleasure to God as the conversion and salvation of men, for whom his every word and every revelation exist. He wants you to become a living force for all mankind,
- [Pope Benedict and The Baptism of the Lord](https://catholicinsight.com/2023/01/09/benedict-and-the-baptism/) - SOLEMNITY OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD BENEDICT XVI ANGELUS St Peter's Square Sunday, 13 January 2008 Dear Brothers and Sisters, With today's Feast of Jesus' Baptism the liturgical Season of Christmas concludes. The Child, who the Magi from the East came to adore at Bethlehem offering their symbolic gifts, we now find an adult, at
- [Chant Workshop in Ottawa](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/09/chant-workshop-in-ottawa/) - For those who want to learn something about the great tradition of Gregorian chant, or hone your incipient skills, there will be a a Chant workshop offered by Miss Catherine Helferty in Ottawa with CAMMAC (Canadian Amateur Musicians, Musiciens amateurs du Canada) on Saturday, February 21st in the new year of 2026. Miss Helferty holds
- [The Mysticism of Gregory of Nyssa](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/10/the-mysticism-of-gregory-of-nyssa/) - The memorial of Saint Gregory of Nyssa, even if not in the universal calendar, is on this January 10th. Gregory is one of the 'Cappadocian Fathers', along with his elder brother, Saint Basil the Great, and their companion, Saint Gregory of Nazianzen - the latter two we celebrate on, January 2nd. Gregory is a highly
- [It’s Still a Wonderful Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/10/its-still-a-wonderful-life/) - The quiet authority of the 1946 Christmas move It’s a Wonderful Life upon the cultural imagination cannot be overstated, and few films manage such influence while refusing every modern instinct toward superficial consolation. Consequently, its endurance across generations reveals something stubbornly human about the way meaning is discovered rather than manufactured, uncovered rather than engineered, received
- [Healing Effects of the Holy Eucharist](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/09/healing-and-the-sacred-liturgy/) - Sadly, the majority of Catholics do not believe in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Nearly seven in ten Catholics (69%) say they personally believe that during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, the bread and wine used in Communion are merely symbols of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ (Pew Research Center
- [Cardinals in Consistory](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/07/cardinals-in-consistory/) - The 245 cardinals of the Catholic Church - give or take a few - are gathering today and tomorrow in consistory to discuss various issues. We don't know precisely what they may discuss - the general agenda may be found here, but its specifics are the prerogative of the Holy Father, Pope Leo in consultation
- [Saint Raymond of Penyafort](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/08/saint-raymond-of-penyafort/) - Today, January 8th, is the feast of Saint Raymond of Penyafort (1175-1275), one of the first Dominicans (officially known as the Order of Preachers) eventually becoming the third Master General of the Order (after Saint Dominic himself, and Jordan of Saxony), and a fellow Dominican with his even-more famous confrere, Thomas Aquinas, with whom he
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/07/47523/) - Christ appeared in the world, and, bringing beauty out of disarray, gave it lustre and joy. He bore the world’s sin and crushed the world’s enemy. He sanctified the fountains of waters and enlightened the minds of men. Into the fabric of miracles he interwove ever greater miracles. (Saint Proclus of Constantinople, +446)
- [Petit Brother André Bessette: The Miracle Worker of Montreal](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/07/petit-brother-andre-bessette/) - On January 7th here in Canada we honour one of our most beloved homegrown saints, André Bessette (1845-1937), a humble lay-brother who went on to found Saint Joseph’s Oratory in Montreal. A sickly boy, brought up in a difficult childhood mired in poverty in rural Quebec, his lumberjack father was killed by a falling tree,
- [Pope Saint Telesphorus](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/05/pope-saint-telesphorus/) - This fifth of January is the traditional commemoration of the eighth bishop of Rome after Saint Peter, namely, Saint Telesphorus. Not much is known about his life: He was Greek, and was chosen Pope in 126 A.D., during which he purportedly instituted a seven-week Lent before Easter, that Easter be celebrated on a Sunday (as
- [Saint John Neumann, the Bishop Who Kept on Going](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/05/saint-john-neumann-indefatigable-bishop/) - Today is the feast of Saint John Neumann - whom we should distinguish from Saint John Henry Newman, the English Oratorian and fellow saint; as well as from the non-ordained layman John von Neumann, the great Hungarian-American mathematician and scientist, who helped devise what we now know as the 'computer'. Today's John Neumann was born
- [Bach's Christmas and Epiphany Oratorio](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/04/bachs-christmas-and-epiphany-oratorio/) - Between 1734 and 1735, J.S. Bach composed six Oratorios - or six parts of one long Oratorio - for the Christmas season, which the Lutherans in his day still celebrated with gusto and devotion, each part commemorating an aspect of the Christmas story: The first, the Birth of Christ; the second, the Annunciation to the
- [The Epiphany to (the) Wise Men](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/04/the-wise-mens-epiphany/) - A blessed and joyous Epiphany to all our readers, at least to those in Canada and other regions, where this solemnity is moved to the nearest Sunday. For the universal Church, it's on the proper day the twelfth of Christmas, January 6th. However and whenever, we celebrate, the Epiphany is the culmination of the great
- [Mother Elizabeth Ann Seton: The First American-Born Saint](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/04/mother-seton/) - Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (1774 - 1821) signifies what America once was and, by the grace of God, may yet be again - the true 'MAGA', if you will, not based on money, but spiritual riches. That said, Elizabeth Ann Bayley was born into financial largess - the proverbial rich heiress - and was married
- [Epiphany: Kneeling Humbly Before our God](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/04/epiphany-kneeling-humbly-before-our-god/) - On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh (Mt. 2:11). The celebration of the Solemnity of the Epiphany completes our commemoration of the Mystery of the Incarnation which Christmas
- [How Dostoevsky Changed the World](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/05/how-dostoevsky-changed-the-world/) - In 1849, Fyodor Dostoevsky stood before a firing squad, fully prepared for death, only to hear his execution sentence revoked at the final instant. This episode serves as more than dramatic biography, since it operates as a key for understanding why Dostoevsky’s writing carries such moral weight, psychological depth, and spiritual seriousness. Few authors ever
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/03/47473/) - At the name of Jesus, every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:11)
- [The Holy Name of Jesus](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/03/the-gift-of-the-holy-name/) - Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians, 2:9-11) And
- [The Miraculous Figures of the Infant Jesus: History and Devotion](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/30/the-miraculous-figures-of-the-infant-jesus-history-and-devotion/) - Among the many devotional images scattered across Central Europe, in a world shattered by regional conflicts, ideological disputes, and economic upheavals, two small figures—the Infant Jesus of Prague in the Czech Republic and the Infant Jesus of Kraków in the Republic of Poland—may be adopted as spiritual guides, proverbial lights in the tunnel for weary
- [Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/01/solemnity-of-mary-mother-of-god/) - When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman…so that we might receive adoption as sons (Gal.4:4).⧾ On this the last day of the Christmas Octave and the first of the New Year, we celebrated the divine maternity of our Mother and Queen, the Blessed Virgin Mary. Today’s Solemnity
- [Keeping the Christmas Caroling: In Dulce Iubilo, the Wexford, and A Rose in Winter.](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/01/02/keeping-the-christmas-caroling-in-dulce-iubilo-the-wexford-and-a-rose-in-winter/) - With the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God today - or, in the usus antiquior, the Circumcision of Our Lord - the Octave of Christmas comes to a close, but the twelve days of Christmas continue to Epiphany, and the Christmas season continues to the Baptism of the Lord (next Monday), or, in the traditional
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Basil the Great](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/02/pope-benedict-and-saint-basil-the-great-part-1/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 4 July 2007 Saint Basil (1) Dear Brothers and Sisters, Let us remember today one of the great Fathers of the Church, St Basil, described by Byzantine liturgical texts as "a luminary of the Church". He was an important Bishop in the fourth century to whom
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Gregory Nazianzus: Kindred Spirits](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/02/pope-benedict-and-saint-gregory-nazianzus-kindred-spirits/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 8 August 2007 Saint Gregory Nazianzus (1) Dear Brothers and Sisters, Last Wednesday, I talked about St Basil, a Father of the Church and a great teacher of the faith. Today, I would like to speak of his friend, Gregory Nazianzus; like Basil, he too was
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2026/01/01/47455/) - Blessed are you, Virgin Mary! You bore in your womb the Lord, the Creator of the world.* You gave birth to him who made you, and you remain a virgin for ever.
- [The Te Deum: Giving Thanks and Praise to God](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/31/the-te-deum-giving-thanks-and-praise-to-god-on-this-last-day-of-the-year/) - There is an eschatological note to this final day of the calendar year, as there was a month ago in the end of the liturgical year with Christ the King, and the beginning of Advent. In the first reading this morning, the Apostle John warns of Antichrist, and that already many antichrists have come, whose
- [Pope Leo's Angelus Address: The Holy Family and Holy Innocents](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/31/pope-leos-angelus-address-the-holy-family-and-holy-innocents/) - FEAST OF THE HOLY FAMILY OF NAZARETH POPE LEO XIV ANGELUS St Peter's Square Sunday, 28 December 2025 [Multimedia] ________________________________________ Dear brothers and sisters, happy Sunday! Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family, and the Liturgy offers us the story of their flight into Egypt (cf. Mt 2:13-15, 19-23). It is a moment of trial
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/31/47444/) - The glorious choir of Apostles, the noble ranks of prophets, the shining army of martyrs – all praise you. Throughout the world your holy Church proclaims you. Father of immeasurable majesty, True Son, only-begotten, worthy of worship, Holy Spirit, our Advocate. (from the Te Deum)
- [Saint Sylvester, the Last Saint of the Year](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/31/saint-sylvester-and-sayonara-2020/) - On this last day of the calendar year, we celebrate in muted tones the mysterious and shadowy Pope Saint Sylvester I, who reigned from 314, the year after Constantine made Christianity legal after his momentous victory at the Milvian Bridge, until his death on this day in 335. In the commemorative reading from today's Office,
- [The Church Could Use A Few More Thomas (à) Beckets](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/29/we-could-use-a-few-more-thomas-a-beckets/) - A blessed continuing 'Merrie Christmas!' to all our readers, on this sixth day of the Octave, and then on through the the twelve days, right up to the Epiphany and the Baptism of our Lord. So keep those lights and candles burning, the decorations, the Nativity set, the tree...Christmas has just begun! In the midst
- [On the Feast of Stephen...not Boxing Day!](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/26/on-the-feast-of-stephen/) - As the mid-19th century hymn has it, Good King Wenceslaus first went out, on the feast of Stephen, when the snow lay 'round about, deep and crisp and even...a hymn, published in 1853, which has the English lyrics of Thomas Helmore set to the 13th century melody Tempus adest floridum, which had in turn later
- [The Hope of the Holy Innocents](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/28/hope-of-the-innocents/) - The feast of the Holy Innocents, which we celebrate appropriately enough within the octave of Christmas, might seem a troubling commemoration at first glance. Remembering the wholesale slaughter of all the male children two years and under, in and around Bethlehem? Why would God permit such a sacrifice? Yet this feast signifies certain theological principles
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/28/47424/) - Whoever honors his father atones for sins, and whoever glorifies his mother is like one who lays up treasure. (Sirach, 3:3-4)
- [Feast of the Holy Family](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/28/pope-benedict-and-the-holy-family/) - BENEDICT XVI ANGELUS St Peter's Square Sunday, 31 December 2006 Dear Brothers and Sisters, On this last Sunday of the year we are celebrating the Feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth. I address with joy all the families of the world, wishing them the peace and love that Jesus brought us in coming
- [In the Bleak Midwinter, Gaudete Christus Natus Est](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/28/musical-offering-in-the-bleak-midwinter/) - It's lovely how the simplest tunes often - perhaps most often, maybe even always - make the most beautiful of melodies. So it is with Gustav Holst's (1874-1934) carol 'In the Bleak Midwinter' (1906) a very simple F-major progression, all within the octave - of the scale, that is, but also in reference to Christmas.
- [Saint John, Son of Zebedee](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/27/saint-john-son-of-zebedee-2/) - Pope Benedict XVI offered three audiences on the Apostle John, back in 2006, and, concise as they are - a trait of the erudite Pontiff - they make for very rich and fruitful reading. Here is the first, the last, and the other two will also be posted. May the beloved Apostle intercede for you
- [Saint John the Beloved, Seer of Patmos](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/27/saint-john-the-beloved-seer-of-patmos/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 23 August 2006 John, the Seer of Patmos Dear Brothers and Sisters, In the last Catechesis we had reached the meditation on the figure of the Apostle John. We had first sought to look at all that can be known of his life. Then, in a
- [Saint John, the Apostle of the Logos](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/27/saint-john-beloved/) - On this third day of Christmas, we not only get three french hens, but, far better, we get to celebrate the beloved Apostle, Saint John the Evangelist, whose Gospel signifies most clearly the eternal existence of Christ as the Logos, the eternal, subsistent Word of the Father, Who has always been 'with' the Father from
- [Saint John, the Theologian](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/27/saint-john-the-theologian/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 9 August 2006 John, the theologian Dear Brothers and Sisters, Before the holidays I had begun sketching small portraits of the Twelve Apostles. The Apostles were Jesus' travelling companions, Jesus' friends. Their journey with Jesus was not only a physical journey from Galilee to Jerusalem, but
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/27/47399/) - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines
- [The Very First 'Merry Christmas'](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/26/the-very-first-merry-christmas/) - In one of those many ironies of history, it came as news to me that the first recorded use of the greeting 'Merry Christmas' was from Bishop John Fisher to Thomas Cromwell. Of course, the irony is that Fisher had been imprisoned by Cromwell, the ruthless bully-boy henchman of Henry VIII, for denying the King's
- [A Song for Saint Joseph](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/26/a-song-for-saint-joseph/) - My friend Beverlee Trindl and I attended Aquinas Dominican High School on Chicago’s south side. Our senior year we were asked by the choir director to compose a new carol for St. Joseph to be debuted in our upcoming Christmas pageant. Bev, a gifted pianist, and I had teamed up for other school events which
- [A Christmas Meditation for the Year of Our Lord 2025](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/24/a-christmas-meditation-for-the-year-of-our-lord-2025/) - In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (Jn. 1:1) Ἐν ἀρχῇ ἦν ὁ λόγος, καὶ ὁ λόγος ἦν πρὸς τὸν θεόν, καὶ θεὸς ἦν ὁ λόγος. As we celebrate Christmas, these words from the prologue of the Gospel of St. John invite us to approach the Feast of the Incarnation by contemplating the divinity of the Christ Child. As we sing
- [Grace in the Gutter](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/22/grace-in-the-gutter/) - A Christmas Reflection on Evil, Freedom, and Redemption in Bad Santa Editors’ note: the film reviewed below contains explicit sexual and violent scenes, sustained crudity and profane humor. This review is not meant to serve as a recommendation, but rather as an example of the application of Christian principles to morally disordered narratives to seek
- [Canisius the Indefatigable Catechist](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/21/canisius-the-indefatigable/) - Saint Peter Canisius (1521-1597) was a Dutch Jesuit back in the earliest days of the Order, amongst the first to join Ignatius' company, after meeting one of the founders, Peter Faber. His life spans the century of what history inaccurately calls the Protestant ‘reformation’, and our saint goes down in history as one of the
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Stephen](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/26/pope-benedict-and-saint-stephen/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 2 May 2012 [Video] Dear Brothers and Sisters, In our recent Catecheses we have seen how through personal and community prayer the interpretation of and meditation on Sacred Scripture open us to listening to God who speaks to us and instils light in us so that we
- [Christmas Hymns](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/25/christmas-hymns/) - A fine compilation of Christmas hymnody, done in wonderful harmony. Enjoy on this day of great joy! Christus natus est, alleluia! https://youtu.be/zIQBBNIo1Hc
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/25/47372/) - And it is extraordinary to notice how completely this feeling of the paradox of the manger was lost by the brilliant and ingenious theologians, and how completely it was kept in the Christmas carols. They, at least, never forgot that the main business of the story they had to tell was that the absolute once
- [Saints Adam and Eve](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/24/saints-adam-and-eve/) - Christmas Eve is the traditional commemoration of Adam and Eve, our first parents – I don’t think there’s any etymological connection between Eve and Eve, the first derived from ye Olde English ǣfnung, which means towards sunset, the end of the day. The name Eve is an English transliteration of her Hebrew name given by
- [Silent Night, of Joy and Peace Amidst the Tumult](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/24/stille-nacht/) - The beloved hymn Silent Night was first performed on Christmas Eve, 1818, fittingly at Saint Nicholas parish in Oberndorf in what was then the Austrian empire. The music was composed by the organist and schoolmaster Franz Xaver Gruber, and the words by Father Joseph Mohr, the parish priest, who had penned the six stanzas, in
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/24/47353/) - Awake, mankind! For your sake God has become man. Awake, you who sleep, rise up from the dead, and Christ will enlighten you. I tell you again: for your sake, God became man. You would have suffered eternal death, had he not been born in time. (Saint Augustine, +430)
- [The Meaning of Christmas as Advent Draws to a Close](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/23/the-meaning-of-christmas-as-advent-draws-to-a-close/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 20 December 2006 The meaning of Christmas Dear Brothers and Sisters, "The Lord is close: come, let us adore him". With this invocation, the liturgy invites us in these last days of Advent to approach as it were on tip-toe the Bethlehem Grotto where the extraordinary event that
- [A Christmas Carol: Thoughts, and an Audio Book](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/23/a-christmas-carol-in-audio/) - Charles Dickens' novella A Christmas Carol was first published on this December 19 back in 1843, and it has been a much beloved classic ever since. It is really is an Advent story, as are most Christmas stories, and songs, as Stephen White recently wrote. Just as most marriage films are really 'engagement' films -
- [John of Kanty's Holy Hidden Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/23/john-of-kantys-quiet-life/) - On this Eve of Christmas Eve, we celebrate in a subdued manner the commemoration of John of Cantius (1390 - 1473), or 'Kanty' in the original Polish transliteration - a scholar, teacher, gentleman, priest and, most of all, a saint, who spent his whole life as a professor at the Krakow Academy, later named the
- [Bach's Cantata for the Fourth Sunday of Advent](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/21/bach-and-the-fourth-sunday-of-advent/) - J.S. Bach composed Cantatas for many Sundays and feasts (over 200!)- in the Lutheran liturgical calendar, to be sure, but one which remained close to its Catholic origins. Here is the one for the Fourth Sunday of Advent. Premiered on December 22, 1715, it is a fitting way to prepare for the birth of our
- [Fourth Sunday: Ite Ad Joseph](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/21/fourth-sunday-ite-ad-joseph/) - When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home (Mt. 1:24). On this fourth and last Sunday of Advent, the Sacred Liturgy invites us to be one with the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, that we might learn from them how to
- [Musical Offering: The Alma Redemptoris Mater, in Three Versions](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/20/sunday-musical-offering-alma-redemptoris-mater-in-three-versions/) - There are various antiphons sung in honour of Our Lady at the close of Compline, for each liturgical season - the Salve Regina for 'Ordinary Time'; the Ave Regina Coelorum for Lent, the Regina Coeli for Easter, and the one for Advent and Christmas is the Alma Redemptoris Mater - a beautiful hymn to Our
- [Saint Dominic of Silos and His Chanting Monks](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/20/saint-dominic-of-silos-and-his-chanting-monks/) - While we're on the topic of chant with the Alma Redemptoris, this December 20th also marks the commemoration of Saint Dominic of Silos who died on this day in 1073, at the monastery he had founded in the southern part of northern Spain. His early life was spent as a shepherd, which seems a theme
- [Nicene and the Filioque](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/01/nicene-and-the-filioque/) - This year marks the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, which first promulgated the creed that goes by its name. As the recent Apostolic Letter of Pope Leo, In Unitate Fidei, the council was called to respond to the heresy of Arius, who denied the full divinity of Jesus Christ, the Word made Flesh.
- [In the Stillness, We Find Christ](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/11/in-the-stillness-we-find-christ/) - Seeking God Through the Wisdom of St. Anselm and Blaise Pascal St. Anselm of Canterbury stands as one of the great minds of Christian history. His works shaped the contours of Western theology, especially his Proslogion, which offers the famous ontological argument for God. In my early studies of theology at Saint Paul University in
- [Skeptical Trump and the Paris Accord](https://catholicinsight.com/2017/06/02/skeptical-trump-and-the-paris-accord/) - I for one find it encouraging news that Donald Trump has pulled the United States out of the Paris Accord, whose official term is the Paris Agreement, which falls under the United Nations Convention on Climate Change, adopted by 'consensus' on December 12, 2015. Of course, such consensus is bestowed by the enlightened leaders, and
- [The Holy House of Loreto](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/10/the-holy-house-of-loreto/) - The memorial of Lady of Loreto was put back into the universal calendar, on this day by Pope Francis in December, 2019, in those halcyonic months just before the tsunami of Covid-insanity hit the world. Today we celebrate the home where the Holy Family lived. But why Loreto, on the shores of the Adriatic in
- [Saint Lucy's Luminous Light](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/13/lucys-light/) - It may be difficult to believe in these dark December days, but a scant week from now, once we pass the winter solstice, the days will begin getting slowly, but perceptibly, longer. The light, and the Light, of the world is not far off. Today we celebrate Santa Lucia, Saint Lucy, the saint of ‘light’,
- [The O Antiphons and the Last Seven Days of Advent](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/17/the-advent-o-antiphons/) - On December 17th we begin the seven days of proximate preparation for Christmas, analogous to the more familiar twelve days of Christmas, which follow after the great feast. In the Western tradition of the Catholic Church, one of the liturgical means to elevate and focus our minds and hearts for the great feast are the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/19/47304/) - To predispose our mind to welcome the Lord who, as we say in the Creed, one day will come to judge the living and the dead, we must learn to recognize him as present in the events of daily life. Therefore, Advent is, so to speak, an intense training that directs us decisively toward him
- [Truth and the Tradivox Catechical Compendium](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/17/truth-and-the-tradivox-catechical-compendium/) - There is no such things a 'perfect' Catechism, a catechism to end all catechisms, such as it were. That's why there's no end to them. And the truth, thought 'definable' - we are replete in our Church with defined doctrine - it is also 'indefinite', in the sense that there's no end to its pursuit.
- [Handel's Miraculous Messiah](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/17/handels-miraculous-messiah-2/) - On this Second Sunday of Advent, when we read of Saint John the Baptist's preparing the way, it is fitting to immerse oneself in at least the first part of Handel's Messiah. First performed on April 13th, 1742 (in Dublin of all places), the oratorio was composed by a German, who had become a naturalised
- [Pope Saint Damasus: The Faith, the Vulgate and the Mass of All Time](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/11/damasus-incarnational-faith/) - We owe quite a lot to Pope Saint Damasus (305 - 384), who oversaw the universal Church during the tumultuous era of the lingering Arian crisis from 366 to his death in good old age in 384. It was he who approved the decrees of the Council of Constantinople in 381 which condemned the pernicious
- [Pagan Darkness and Advent's Light](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/16/pagan-darkness-and-advent-light/) - I have fond memories of strolling along beautiful Bondi beach years ago, while at World Youth Day in 2008, and it never crossed my mind that I might get shot. Perhaps dim thoughts of whether a great white shark roamed the shoreline, and certainly dreams of surfing. I did dive into the frigid Pacific briefly
- [God: The Science, the Evidence - A Review](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/19/god-the-science-the-evidence/) - God: The Science, the Evidence, by Michel-Yves Bolloré and Olivier Bonnassies, is an intriguing book, not quite what I expected when asked to review the new bestseller. I suppose it would fall into the genre of natural theology, and the burgeoning field of intelligent design. When one first picks it up, it seems like a
- [Is the SSPX Really a Refuge for Traditional Catholics?](https://catholicinsight.com/2022/10/28/whither-traditional-catholics/) - Where do traditional Catholics go from here? Of course, all Catholics should be 'traditional', in the sense of preserving, living by and handing on our great Tradition, as one of the pillars of revealed truth, along with Scripture. But traditional may also refer specifically those who prefer the usus antiquior, or the TLM, and we
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/17/47274/) - within her spotless womb Wisdom might build itself a house and the Word become flesh. The divine nature and the nature of a servant were to be united in one person so that the Creator of time might be born in time, and he through whom all things were made might be brought forth in
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/16/47266/) - I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. (John 8:12)
- [Servant of God Catherine de Hueck Doherty](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/14/servant-of-god-catherine-de-hueck-doherty/) - Forty years ago today, on December 14, 1985, Catherine de Hueck Doherty's vagarious life came to its end in a cabin in the remote town of Combermere, Ontario. Born in Russia, and living through the rigours of the revolution, Catherine fled to Finland, then London, England - where she was received into the Catholic Church
- [Pope Benedict Reflects on Saint John of the Cross](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/14/pope-benedict-reflects-on-saint-john-of-the-cross/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 16 February 2011 [Video] Saint John of the Cross Dear Brothers and Sisters, Two weeks ago I presented the figure of the great Spanish mystic, Teresa of Jesus. Today I would like talk about another important saint of that country, a spiritual friend of St Teresa,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/14/47209/) - Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and men of violence take
- [Musical Offering: Lo, He Comes With Clouds Descending!](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/14/lo-he-comes-with-clouds-descending/) - Say what you like about the early Methodists, but they could write some melodious hymns, and one of the greatest and most prolific is Charles Wesley (+1788), credited with some 6500 hymns to his name (!!). Yes, I know some of texts may be rather Protestant for our Catholic tastes - and we should re-appropriate
- [Gaudete Sunday: The Baptist's Joyful Humility](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/14/gaudete-sunday-the-baptists-joyful-humility/) - ‘Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he’ (Mt. 11:11). Today is Gaudete Sunday and the sacred liturgy exhorts us to be joyful as we look forward to the coming celebration of Our
- [The Black Madonna on her Miraculous Pilgrimage](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/11/the-black-madonna-on-pilgrimage/) - During Advent, on December 12, we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. It is an image traditionally held not to have been made by human hands, a miraculous sign that continues to inspire faith and devotion. This feast also invites reflection on another sacred image: the Icon of the Black Madonna, whose maker
- [Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mother and Mystery](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/12/our-lady-of-guadalupe-mother-and-mystery/) - December the 12 is the celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe, elevated on the eve of the Third Millennium by Pope John Paul II from a commemoration to a feast. He also declared her patroness of all of ‘America’, south, central, and north, as well as the primary intercessor for the unborn, who are much
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/12/42269-2/) - Hear me and understand well, my son the least, that nothing should frighten or grieve you. Let not your heart be disturbed. Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish. Am I not here, who is your Mother? Are you not under my protection? Am I not your health? Are you not
- [The Miraculous Image of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Video](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/12/the-amazing-and-miraculous-image-of-our-lady-of-guadalupe-video/) - In case you need further evidence that the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe is miraculous, and truly that of the 'Mother of God', and our mother, this video offers much. A blessed feast to one and all. May Our Lady watch over the Americas, the unborn, the elderly, sick and vulnerable, and each of
- [Prayer of Pope John Paul II to Our Lady of Guadalupe](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/12/prayer-of-pope-john-paul-ii-to-our-lady-of-guadalupe/) - O Immaculate Virgin, Mother of the true God and Mother of the Church!, who from this place reveal your clemency and your pity to all those who ask for your protection, hear the prayer that we address to you with filial trust, and present it to your Son Jesus, our sole Redeemer. Mother of Mercy, Teacher of hidden
- ['Vaxx' Volte-Face](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/10/vaxx-volte-face/) - It's almost as incredible as the ever-more strained narrative during the latter days of the 'Covid Era': After touting the mRNA 'vaxx' as the solution, the powers-that-be are now disowning it, and an about-face is underway. Are they truly repentant, or simply trying to cover their behinds? Well, the U.K. has refused to release data
- [Presidential Address on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/10/presidential-address-on-the-feast-of-the-immaculate-conception/) - President Donald Trump has issued an address to the nation on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, the patronal feast of the United States. Neither of his two Catholic predecessors in office - JFK and Joseph Biden - ever did so. And Donald Trump is a Protestant, as was every other president, at least on
- [Litany of Loreto](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/10/litany-of-loreto/) - If you don't already pray the Litany of Loreto, today may well be a good day to start. A journey begins with one step! First approved by Pope Sixtus V in 1587, not long after the Council of Trent, the invocation to Our Lady seeks her powerful intercession through various ancient and venerable titles, and
- [The Montreal Massacre at École Polytechnique](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/06/the-montreal-massacre-at-ecole-polytechnique/) - December 6th, the memorial of jolly Saint Nicholas, is also the sombre 35th anniversary of what is known as the 'Montreal Massacre' in 1989, when Marc Lepine, whose original name was Gamil Gharbi, killed fourteen people, before killing himself, in what he claimed was a 'anti-feminist' rampage through École Polytechnique school of engineering. Mark Steyn
- [Electric vs. Combustion and CO2](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/09/electric-and-combustion-and-co2/) - Whatever one thinks of 'CO2' emissions - and this author, as readers are likely aware, remains unconvinced of the apocalyptic ravings of the climate lobby - one should at least be willing to look at facts. Electric cars are labeled environmentally 'clean and green', with special emerald-hued licence plates to prove it. That's because they
- [Homily for the Canonization of Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoztzin](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/09/homily-for-the-canonization-of-juan-diego-cuauhtlatoztzin/) - APOSTOLIC VISIT TO TORONTO, TO CIUDAD DE GUATEMALA AND TO CIUDAD DE MÉXICO CANONIZATION OF JUAN DIEGO CUAUHTLATOATZIN HOMILY OF THE HOLY FATHER JOHN PAUL II Mexico City, Wednesday July 31, 2002 1. "I thank you, Father ... that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yea, Father,
- [Saint Juan Diego, Hidden Keeper of the Tilma](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/09/the-mostly-hidden-life-of-juan-diego/) - Amare nesciri - 'love to be unknown' - exhorted Saint Philip Neri (+1595), founder of the Oratorians, who himself was an unknown young tutor in Florence, living in a loft, in the early 16th century. At the same time, thousands of miles across the ocean in the mountainous region outside of what is now Mexico
- [I am the Immaculate Conception](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/08/i-am-the-immaculate-conception/) - Que soy era Immaculada Concepciou - I am the Immaculate Conception These are the words Our Lady said to Saint Bernadette Sobirous, which she spoke in the local French patois, when the young saint asked the 'beautiful lady' who she was. Bernadette had no idea what they meant, and had to memorize them as she
- [Tallis' Gaude Gloriosa](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/08/tallis-gaude-gloriosa/) - For this Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception - and a blessed one may it be - here is the opening section to a motet to the glorious Virgin Mother of God by the great English Thomas Tallis (the full motet runs to 18 minutes or so). The manuscript dates from either late in the reign
- [Josquin des Prez' Ave Maria](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/03/25/josquin-des-prez-ave-maria/) - On this Solemnity of the Annunciation, here is a fitting motet to celebrate with true devotion. During his own life (c. 1455 - 1521) Josquin des Prez was known as the 'Michelangelo of music', which says much. Here is one of his first compositions, fittingly, a setting of the Ave Maria, as sung by Voces8,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/07/47097/) - Lady, full and overflowing with grace, all creation receives new life from your abundance. Virgin, blessed above all creatures, through your blessing all creation is blessed, not only creation from its Creator, but the Creator himself has been blessed by creation. (Saint Anselm, +1109)
- [Pope John Paul II's Last Sermon on the Immaculate Conception](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/08/pope-john-paul-iis-last-sermon-on-the-immaculate-conception/) - HOLY MASS ON THE OCCASION OF THE 150th ANNIVERSARY OF THE DOGMA OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY HOMILY OF JOHN PAUL II Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Wednesday, 8 December 2004 "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!" (Lk 1: 28). We address
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Ambrose](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/07/pope-benedict-and-saint-ambrose/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 24 October 2007 Saint Ambrose of Milan Dear Brothers and Sisters, Holy Bishop Ambrose - about whom I shall speak to you today - died in Milan in the night between 3 and 4 April 397. It was dawn on Holy Saturday. The day before, at
- [Divine Courtship](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/03/divine-courtship/) - I started reading Jesus the Bridegroom by Brant Pitre. In the first chapter of the book, he discusses how the ancient Jews viewed God and the Messiah as a divine bridegroom who wants to marry His people, and how Jesus fulfills this prophecy. Modern Christians are not entirely ignorant of this point of view, since we know
- [Would the Real Saint Nicholas Please Stand Up?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/06/the-real-saint-nicholas/) - Saint Nicholas of Myra (+343) has gone down in legend in more ways than one. His general story follows below, but through the years has developed into the genial 'Santa Claus', the rotund, cherubic figure, a creation of the cartoonist Thomas Nast in Harper's Weekly in 1881, with the red suit and ample physiognomy, which
- [Bill C-218 to Stop MAiD for Mental Illness](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/04/bill-c-218-to-stop-maid-for-mental-illness/) - As part of the disastrous influence of Justin Trudeau's government, euthanasia continues its metastasis through the body politic of Canada. After its initial legalization in 2016, MAiD - medical murder-suicide, euphemistically, medical assistance in dying - was expanded, removing the criterion of foreseeable death. All you need now is an 'irremediable' medical condition, like, say,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/04/47072/) - The whole earth is a living icon of the face of God. ... I do not worship matter. I worship the Creator of matter who became matter for my sake, who willed to take His abode in matter, who worked out my salvation through matter. Never will I cease honoring the matter which wrought my
- [Pope Benedict and Saint John Damascene](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/04/pope-benedict-and-saint-john-damascene/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 6 May 2009 John Damascene Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today I should like to speak about John Damascene, a personage of prime importance in the history of Byzantine Theology, a great Doctor in the history of the Universal Church. Above all he was an eyewitness of the
- [The Legendary Saint Barbara](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/04/the-legendary-saint-barbara/) - As Hilaire Belloc notes, a legend does not imply something isn't true; rather, it signifies some primordial truth so important that is has been preserved, even embellished. In this light, we should see the life of Saint Barbara, whose feast is on December 4th, but who was removed from the calendar in the revisions of
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/03/47068/) - The harvest is rich but the labourers are few,* so ask the Lord of the harvest to send labourers to his harvest. (Mt 9:38)
- [Xavier's Fire for God and for Souls](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/03/xavier-the-missionary/) - Saint Francis Xavier – the relic of whose forearm, instrumental in the baptizing of tens of thousands made a tour around Canada a number of years ago – was one of those remarkable men of history, whose intensity, focus and singleness of purpose echo through the ages. His desire to give everything to save souls,
- [First Sunday of Advent: Let us Go to the House of the Lord](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/30/first-sunday-of-advent/) - For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem (Lk. 21: 36). The first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of a new liturgical year. In the cycle of the sacred liturgy, this is Year A, during which the Sunday Gospel readings will be taken from the Gospel
- [Edmund Campion's English Optimism](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/12/01/edmund-campions-optimism/) - Today, on this first day of December, we call to mind Saint Edmund Campion – see Avellina Ballestri’s fine recounting of his glorious life from the archives - one of the most charming in the pageantry of the English martyrs. His sense of optimism and good cheer, in the face of the most arduous conditions, even
- [Andrew, An Apostle for All Ages](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/30/andrew-apostle-and-brother-of-the-pope/) - A blessed feast of Saint Andrew to all our readers! Today, the last day of November, were it not the first Sunday of Advent, we would be celebrating the first Apostle called, along with his brother, the first Pope. It is quite close to my own heart, as Andrew's patronage includes not only my native
- [Saint Andrew the Protoclete](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/30/andrew-the-protoclete/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Wednesday, 14 June 2006 Andrew, the Protoclete Dear Brothers and Sisters, In the last two catecheses we spoke about the figure of St Peter. Now, in the measure that sources allow us, we want to know the other 11 Apostles a bit better. Therefore, today we shall speak of Simon Peter's
- [J.S. Bach: Cantata for the First Sunday of Advent: Nun Kum, der Heiden Heiland](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/30/j-s-bach-cantata-for-the-first-sunday-of-advent-nun-kum-der-heiden-heiland/) - A blessed and grace-filled Advent to all our readers! As we begin our preparation for the coming of Christ, both commemorating His first at Christmas, and His last at the end of time, we offer one of the cantatas the great J.S. Bach wrote for this First Sunday of the season, first performed on December
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/29/47042/) - At the first coming he was wrapped in swaddling clothes in a manger. At his second coming he will be clothed in light as in a garment. In the first coming he endured the cross, despising the shame; in the second coming he will be in glory, escorted by an army of angels. (Saint Cyril
- [Apologetics 101, Question 10: How do you know the Bible is a reliable source of truth about God?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/24/apologetics-101-question-10-how-do-you-know-the-bible-is-a-reliable-source-of-truth-about-god/) - For this question, it would not be possible, and possibly not helpful, to try to provide an apologetic for the reliability of “the Bible” if one was going to focus on the collection of texts itself. The Bible is too vast and too varied to be able to give one article’s worth of an answer.
- [Impure Thoughts and Morose Delectation](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/06/10/impure-thoughts-and-morose-delectation/) - What we know of the saints is the least part of them. So quipped Saint Philp Neri (+1595), and it is a saying that has always given me some comfort. For the saints are like the rest of us, waging relentless war against their lower natures, right up to the very end. When someone praised
- [Psychedelics, Meditation, and Attention to the Mind: Sam Harris’s Recipe for a Post-Biblical Consciousness](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/25/psychedelics-meditation-and-attention-to-the-mind-sam-harriss-recipe-for-a-post-biblical-consciousness/) - Sam Harris, on his latest tour, recently claimed that with a few psychedelics, his genuine instruction on how to attend to the nature of one’s mind, and proper meditative practice, we would no longer need the Bible—nor regard it with such reverence. For Harris, understanding scripture as the word of God is incompatible with true
- [MAiD and the RCMP](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/28/maid-and-the-rcmp/) - As the saying goes, they always get their man, or woman, especially if they're old, sick and/or enfeebled. One week after Remembrance Day, November 20th, the RCMP sent out a memo to their veterans - a curious term for police officers, tasked with overseeing civilians and not fighting wars - that euthanasia was available, free
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/27/47015/) - O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee!
- [Catherine Labouré and the Miraculous Medal](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/27/catherin-laboure-and-the-miraculous-medal/) - November 27th is the anniversary of the apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1830 to Saint Catherine Labouré (1806 - 1876), a Visitation Sister, during her evening meditation. Our Lady was so real, reported Sister Catherine, that she could feel the folds on her dress, and whose beauty she could not describe. The Mother
- [Francis, Leo and 'Climate Change'](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/20/francis-leo-and-climate-change/) - We’ve written before of the story that Pope Pius XII wanted to use the theory of the ‘Big Bang’ – first proposed by the priest Father Georges Lemaitre in 1929 – in an encyclical to ‘prove’ the doctrine of creation ex nihilo. Father Lemaitre demurred, advising the Pontiff that his theory – which he had
- [Catherine's Pure Philosophy](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/25/catherine-scholar-martyr-virgin-saint/) - In one of those ironies of God's history - choosing what seems weak to confound the apparently strong - the patron saint of philosophers is a teenage virgin martyr from the fourth century. Catherine of Alexandria (+305) dedicated herself to study 'from a young age', as her disputed biography (written centuries after her death) relates.
- [Christ the King, and the Promise of Eternal Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/23/christ-the-king-and-the-promise-of-eternal-life/) - ‘Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise’ (Lk. 23:43). From the moment that Our Lord spoke these words, the Church has lived in this present time frame. Although the chronology of time progresses and unfolds, the eternal today of God’s time reaches across and underlies all history. This today of
- [Quas Primas of Pius XI: On the Feast of Christ the King](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/23/quas-primas-of-pius-xi-on-the-feast-of-christ-the-king/) - This year marks the 100th anniversary of the institution of the Feast of Christ the King, by the promulgation of Pope Pius XI's encyclical Quas Primas, on December 11th, 1925. QUAS PRIMAS ENCYCLICAL OF POPE PIUS XI ON THE FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING TO OUR VENERABLE BRETHREN THE PATRIARCHS, PRIMATES, ARCHBISHOPS, BISHOPS, AND OTHER
- [Andrew-Dung Lac and the Vietnamese Martyrs: Washed in the Blood of the Lamb](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/24/15120-2/) - On this memorial of the Martyrs of Vietnam, we commemorate a whole panoply of white-robed witnesses, Christians, bishops, priests, Franciscans, Dominicans, lay men, women and children, who were put to death in the most horrific of ways in the series of persecutions in that troubled country in the 17th to 19th centuries. There were thousands
- [A Triptych of Saints: Clement, Columba and Pro](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/23/three-saints-in-a-day-pro-clement-and-columba/) - We commemorate three saints on this November 23rd, Saints Clement of Rome, Columba and Miguel Pro, muted this year on the Solemnity of Christ the King. These three intercessors and examples from three different eras all lived, and two gave their lives, for the truth of their God. Their joyful fidelity in the midst of
- [Iesu, Rex Admirabilis](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/23/iesu-rex-admirabilis/) - This last Sunday of the liturgical year is the Solemnity of Christ the King, and a blessed and grace-filled on may it be for all our readers. The feast was originally celebrated on the last Sunday of October (where it remains in the usus antiquior) but was transferred to this more eschatological place in the calendar in
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/23/46967/) - God reigns in every saint, and every saint obeys God’s spiritual laws — God, who dwells in him just as he dwells in any well-ordered city. The Father is present in him and in his soul Christ reigns alongside the Father, as it is said: We will come to him and make our dwelling with him. (Origen, +253)
- [Who is Our King?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/23/18221-2/) - As Moses prepared the Israelites to enter the Promised Land he prophesied that they would ask for a king, “I will set a king over me, like all the nations that are round about me” (Dt. 17:14). He did not condemn the desire that he knew they would have, but he did give them some
- [Our Lady's Presentation, and the Perfect Gift of Self](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/21/marys-gift/) - The Presentation of Mary – commemorating Our Lady’s dedication and consecration to God as a young girl of about three years old in the Temple – is found in none of the four traditional Gospels, but rather related in the apocryphal 'Gospel of James’, which dates from the beginning of the third century. However, as
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/22/46959/) - The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value (pretii inaestimabilis), greater even than that of any other art. (Sacrosanctum Concilium, 1963)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/22/46957/) - Now, who is more worthy of such a cry of jubilation than God himself, whom all words fail to describe? If words will not serve, and yet you must not remain silent, what else can you do but cry out for joy? Your heart must rejoice beyond words, soaring into an immensity of gladness, unrestrained
- [Saint Caecilia's Heavenly Music](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/22/caecelias-song/) - We have to wait to hear what heavenly music sounds like, but Saint Francis de Sales once recounted that he was blessed to hear an angel played one note on a violin – of what material it was made we may only surmise – and said it was the most beautiful sound he could remember.
- [Did the Founders of America Fear Religion?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/17/did-the-founders-of-america-fear-religion/) - Ever since the New Atheism crowd emerged several decades ago, there has been an ongoing campaign to nullify the great historical importance of Christianity throughout Western Civilization. Indeed, efforts continue to be made to prove that Jesus never existed (see my previous article at Catholic Insight, “How Do We Know Christ Really Lived?”). Brooke Allen
- [Dedication of the Basilicas of Peter, Paul - and the Path to Rome](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/18/15056-2/) - Today's memorial marks the dedication of the basilicas of Saints Peter and Paul - following upon that of the Lateran Basilica last week. More specifically, this is the anniversary of the consecration of the two versions of Saint Peter's basilica, and more on that shortly. The feast reminds us of the importance of the one,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/21/46944/) - Mary heard God’s word and kept it, and so she is blessed. She kept God’s truth in her mind, a nobler thing than carrying his body in her womb. The truth and the body were both Christ: he was kept in Mary’s mind insofar as he is truth, he was carried in her womb insofar
- [Hot Air Hypocrisy](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/18/hot-air-hypocrisy/) - Irony may be defined as something that goes against expectation, especially radically so. It is the basis of much of literature and films – the small guy who defeats the far larger opponent. David and Goliath – the ruddy runt of Jesse’s brood, defeating with a simple sling and a handful of smooth rocks the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/18/46926/) - Faith is like a bright ray of sun light. It enables us to see God in all things as well as all things in God. (Saint Francis de Sales, +1622)
- [Musings on Mater Fidelis and the Munificence of God](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/14/musings-on-mater-fidelis-and-the-munificence-of-god/) - Munificentissimus Deus is the title of Pope Pius XII’s Apostolic Constitution declaring that Our Lady was assumed body and soul into heaven. In English, the ‘most munificent God’, which is to say, a God who give presents and gifts, who rewards us far beyond our desserts. To choose a Jewish maiden, and exalt her as
- [Pope Benedict and Elizabeth of Hungary](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/17/46909/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 20 October 2010 Saint Elizabeth of Hungary Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today I would like to speak to you about one of the women of the Middle Ages who inspired the greatest admiration; she is St Elizabeth of Hungary, also called St Elizabeth of Thuringia. Elizabeth
- [An Intriguing Take on the Titles of Our Lady](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/17/an-intriguing-take-on-the-titles-of-our-lady/) - Here's an intriguing take on the controversy surrounding the titles of Our Lady recently deemed 'inopportune' by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. The key argument is summed up in the final section: Likewise, all of us are called to be mediators or instruments of his grace, a role we carry out whenever,
- [Saint Elizabeth of Hungary](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/17/elizabeth-of-hungary/) - The saint today is one of the patrons of Hungary, Elizabeth (+1320), the niece of Saint Hedwig of Silesia, (+1243) whom we celebrated in October. Elizabeth belongs to the '24' club - saints who died at that youthful age, or thereabouts - Saint Therese, Pier Giorgio, Gemma Galgani - all having fulfilled much in a
- [Saints Margaret of Scotland and Gertrude of Germany](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/16/saint-margaret-of-scotland-and-gertrude-of-germany/) - Beautiful bonnie Margaret of Scotland (+1093) was the devoted wife of Malcom III, king of the nation to which she fled as a fetching young royal English lass. Her family had been exiled from England, and Margaret was born and raised in a very pious Catholic environment in Hungary, of all places, a nation now
- [A Significant Insouciance](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/15/a-significant-insouciance/) - If the reader wants a significant moment in the history of the Church in America, ponder the insouciant non-reaction from the assembled bishops to the intervention by the exiled Bishop Strickland, pointing out the scandal like a quiet John the Baptist, of a man in an open homosexual 'marriage' being confirmed in the Catholic Church,
- [Fakes Abound, but Truth Abounds Even More](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/15/fakery-abounding/) - We live in an unreal world, which is to say, one unhinged from the truth. One way to know what is right, is to know what's wrong, the via negativa, if you will. First, a man - which is to say, an adult biological male, for one must clarify such things nowadays - has entered
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/15/46895/) - Above all one should accept everything, in general and individually, in oneself or in others, agreeable or disagreeable, with a prompt and confident spirit, as coming from the hand of his infallible Providence or the order he has arranged. (Saint Albert the Great, +1280)
- [Albert, the Great, Theologian and Scientist](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/15/alberts-reasonable-faith/) - Saint Albert of Cologne (1200-1280), whose life spans what William Walsh called the 'greatest of centuries' was given the title 'the Great', even before his death. Scholar, Dominican, bishop, scientist, and Doctor of the Church, he was considered the most learned man of his age, with an encyclopedic knowledge of just about everything under the
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Albert the Great](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/15/benedict-and-albert/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 24 March 2010 Saint Albert the Great Dear Brothers and Sisters, One of the great masters of medieval theology is St Albert the Great. The title "Great", (Magnus), with which he has passed into history indicates the vastness and depth of his teaching, which he combined with
- [How Do We Know Christ Really Lived?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/07/how-do-we-know-christ-really-lived/) - Every now and then we hear in various and sundry places one of the greatest blasphemies of them all: that Jesus never really lived and that the reports of his life and teachings, his death and resurrection, were all made up by unscrupulous men apparently bent on exploiting others for greed and power. At this
- [Dedication of the Lateran Basilica: A Universal Call to Holiness.](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/09/dedication-of-the-lateran-basilica-a-call-to-holiness/) - Brothers and sisters, you are God’s building. ... For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple. (1 Cor 3:9, 17) Today we celebrate the anniversary of the dedication of the Cathedral Church of Rome by Pope Sylvester I in the year 324. Originally known as the Archbasilica of the Most Holy Saviour and now
- [Saint Lawrence O'Toole and His Irish Heart](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/14/saint-lawrence-otoole-and-his-irish-heart/) - November 14th marks the memorial of Saint Lawrence O’Toole (Lorcán Ua Tuathail, in the original Gaelic, 1125 - 1180). Lawrence was an Irish monk, abbot and, eventually, Archbishop of Dublin, helping to further establish the Church at the dawn of the high Middle Ages in Ireland, as united with the Pope – the era of
- [Saints Stanislaus Kostka and Mother Cabrini](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/13/saints-stanislaus-kostka-and-mother-cabrini/) - Saint Stanislaus Kostka – who died in 1568 just a few months shy of his eighteenth birthday – is one of the most popular saints in Poland. His short life demonstrates two primary lessons: That much can be done in little time, and that whatever time we are given here on earth, it’s all given
- [Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe, Servant or Master?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/20/ai-friend-or-foe-servant-or-master/) - In one of his first addresses, Pope Leo XIV offers a glimpse into why he chose the name he did: I chose to take the name Leo XIV. There are different reasons for this, but mainly because Pope Leo XIII in his historic Encyclical Rerum Novarum addressed the social question in the context of the first great
- [Saint Josaphat, Martyr for Unity](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/12/josaphats-scandal/) - Our Lord seems to have been speaking of our modern crisis when he warns in yesterday's Gospel that scandals are sure to come, and woe to him by whom they come, with the finishing touch about millstones and the depths of sea. It is also a propos that the Apostles then ask that their faith
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/12/30555-2/) - Please God I will give my life for the holy union, for the supremacy of Peter and of the Holy Father, his successor… Lord, grant me the grace to shed my blood for the unity of the church and in behalf of obedience to the Holy See (Saint Josaphat, Bishop and Martyr, +1623)
- [Saint Martin of Tours and Armistice Day](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/11/saint-martins-memorial/) - It's Remembrance Day here in Canada as well as Britain and the rest of her dominions and territories; in America, it’s Veterans' Day. Both commemorate the signing of the armistice ending the war to end all wars on the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month. In the Church, it's also the
- [Pope Benedict and Martin of Tours](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/11/pope-benedict-and-martin-of-tours/) - BENEDICT XVI ANGELUS St Peter's Square Sunday, 11 November 2007 Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, 11 November, the Church remembers St Martin, Bishop of Tours, one of the most celebrated and venerated Saints of Europe. Born of pagan parents in Pannonia, in what is today Hungary, he was directed by his father to a military
- [A Half Century Ago Was the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/10/the-wreck-of-the-edmund-fitzgerald/) - Fifty years ago, on this November 10th, in 1975, the Edmund Fitzgerald was wrecked in a mighty hurricane-force gale on Lake Superior, just 17 miles from shore. But that's a long way when you're on water, as any boatman will tell you. At the time, the Edmund was the largest ship ever to sail the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/10/46835/) - The faith of those who live their faith is a serene faith. What you long for will be given you; what you love will be yours for ever. (Pope Saint Leo the Great, +461)
- [Pope Saint Leo, the First of the Greats](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/10/pope-saint-leo-the-great/) - Pope Saint Leo, the first pontiff to earn the title 'the Great', reigned from 440 until his death on this day in 461, was known for many things. With his wise mind, his magnanimous soul and zeal, he helped solidify the papacy, and the role of the 'Holy Father', which would be further clarified by
- [Pope Benedict on Pope Saint Leo the Great](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/10/pope-benedict-on-pope-leo-2/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 5 March 2008 Saint Leo the Great Dear Brothers and Sisters, Continuing our journey through the Fathers of the Church, true stars that shine in the distance, at our meeting today we encounter a Pope who in 1754 Benedict XIV proclaimed a Doctor of the Church:
- [Fauré's Requiem](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/09/faures-requiem-2/) - Gabriel Fauré composed his Requiem between 1887 and 1890, with an initial premiere at a funeral in 1888. Some say that he was inspired by the death of both his parents in the previous years, but the composer himself denied this, saying "my Requiem wasn't written for anything – for pleasure, if I may call it
- [Faure's Requiem](https://catholicinsight.com/2019/03/11/faures-requiem/) - The Ecclesiastical Schola of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, in conjunction with Our Lady of the Wayside School accompanied by a chamber orchestra, are presenting Gabriel Faure's hauntingly beautiful Requiem, completed in 1900 and which, as the composer himself confessed, is 'dominated from beginning to end by a very human feeling of faith in eternal rest'.
- [Anton Bruckner's Locus Iste: This Holy Place](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/09/anton-bruckners-locus-iste/) - As we celebrate the the dedication of the basilica of Saint John Lateran, the primary church of Christendom, at this end of the Octave of All Saints', it is fitting to revisit the great motet of Anton Bruckner (+1896) Locus iste. Bruckner, a devout Catholic, composed the transcendent piece in 1869, for the consecration of
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/09/42024-2/) - (B)efore Christ redeemed us, we were the house of the devil, but afterwards, we merited the privilege of being the house of God. God himself in his loving mercy saw fit to make of us his own home. My fellow Christians, do we wish to celebrate joyfully the birth of this temple? Then let us
- [Pope Benedict on Today's Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/09/pope-benedict-on-todays-feast-of-the-dedication-of-the-lateran/) - BENEDICT XVI ANGELUS St Peter's Square Sunday, 9 November 2008 Dear Brothers and Sisters, The liturgy today has us celebrate the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, called the "mother and head of all the Churches of the Urbe and Orbe". Actually, this Basilica was the first to be built after the Edict of the Emperor
- [Mamdani's Gotham](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/06/mamdanis-gotham/) - The Batman trilogy - to say nothing of the previous comic books - did not foresee a socialist Muslim mayor of Gotham City. We will leave aside the Islamic aspect for now, and just focus on the socialist ideology of Zohran Mamdani, who just won by an overwhelming landslide, helped in large part, ironically, by
- [“Verso L ’Alto” - A Meditation on the Hidden Sanctity of Pier Giorgio Frassati](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/04/verso-l-alto-a-meditation-on-saint-pier-giorgio-frassati/) - The Italian Alps — that formidable stretch of Europe’s great mountain arc — rise in dramatic splendour above the landscape that so enduringly shaped St. Pier Giorgio Frassati’s life of prayer and adventure. The Australian Alps, sharing the name only in part, resemble their European counterparts more in spirit than in scale. In the former,
- [Gold Mass 2025, Toronto](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/05/gold-mass-2025-toronto/) - Join the Society of Catholic Scientists in celebrating the memorial of Saint Albert the Great, patron of scientists on Tuesday, November 18, at the Newman Centre Catholic Mission, 89 George Street Toronto. Holy Mass will begin at 7PM in the Chapel, with homilist Father Joachim Ostermann, OFM. A reception will follow in the house. RSVP
- [The Foiling of Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/05/the-foiling-of-fawkes-2/) - Remember, remember! the fifth of November. The Gunpowder treason and plot; I know of no reason Why the Gunpowder treason Should ever be forgot! Guy Fawkes and his companions Did the scheme contrive, To blow the King and Parliament
- [Abstaining from Mass and Communion: A Reply to Dr. Kwasniewski](https://catholicinsight.com/2023/07/06/fasting-from-and-before-holy-communion-a-reply-to-dr-kwasniewski/) - (In light of Saint Anthony Maria Zeccaria, and other saints of the 'devotio moderna' who advocated frequent, even daily, reception of the Eucharist, here is a reply to an exhoration by Dr. Peter Kwasniewski published in OnePeterFive). Peter Kwasniewski is right that we must return to Tradition if the Church is to survive, never mind
- [Charles Borromeo Leads the True Reformation](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/04/charles-borromeos-catholic-reformation/) - The memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo (1538-1584) commemorates one of the great pillars - along with Saint Robert Bellarmine, Philip Neri and countless others - of what is unfortunately known as the ' Catholic Counter Reformation', as though the Church were resisting the ‘true reform’ of the revolutionaries Luther, Calvin, Zwingli, Knox and all the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/04/46774/) - If we wish to make any progress in the service of God we must begin every day of our life with new eagerness. We must keep ourselves in the presence of God as much as possible and have no other view or end in all our actions but the divine honor. (Saint Charles Borromeo, +1548)
- [Supreme Oaths and Doctor Newman](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/03/supreme-oaths-and-doctor-newman/) - On this day in 1534, King Henry VIII promulgated his Oath of Supremacy which made the Tudor king the only supreme head in earth of the Church of England, called Anglicans Ecclesia bestowing upon his person any manner of spiritual authority or jurisdiction, which no other potentate – even the pope – could circumvent. Few
- [Martin of Porres’ Heroic Charity](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/03/the-poverello-of-porres/) - Some of the saints signify sanctity in a way that goes beyond the norm, if ‘norm’ can be applied to a thing like sanctity, which itself is characterized by going beyond the normal requirement of virtue, into the realm of the heroic. One of those was today’s humble Peruvian lay-brother Dominican, Martin de Porres (+1639)
- [The Dies Irae: Day of Wrath, but Also of Mercy](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/02/two-dies-irae-chant-and-mozart/) - The Dies Irae - 'Day of Wrath' - is a 13th century sequence preparing us for the final judgement, composed perhaps by the Franciscan Friar Thomas of Celano, or the Dominican Friar Latino Malabranca Orsini, or even by Saint Bonaventure, Bernard of Clairvaux, or Pope Gregory I. Whoever its author be, its haunting chant melody
- [All Saints, All Souls, All Hope](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/01/all-saints-all-souls-all-sinners/) - The month of November begins with the celebration of the glorious Feast of All Saints and the sacred liturgy directs our gaze to the Heavenly Jerusalem, our ultimate destiny. We were created by God to share in His glory. If we are unclear, confused or ignorant of our life’s meaning and purpose, today’s Feast removes
- [Te Deum Laudamus!](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/01/te-deum-laudamus/) - The Te Deum is an ancient song of praise to God and all His saints, that may go back as far as Saint Ambrose (+397), to whose composition it has been attributed, even if current history disputes that, claiming rather Saint Hilary of Poitier (+367) or Nicetas of Remesiana (+414), or even earlier sources. Whatever
- [All the Myriads Upon Myriads of Saints](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/01/myriads-of-saints/) - A blessed solemnity of All Saints to all our readers, a feast that goes back to its official institution by Pope Gregory III (731 – 741) as a commemoration of all the countless martyrs who could not have their own particular day. This was during what we know ironically as the ‘dark ages’, when there
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/31/46739/) - We must rise again with Christ, we must seek the world which is above and set our mind on the things of heaven. Let us long for those who are longing for us, hasten to those who are for us, and ask those who look for our coming to intercede for us (Saint Bernard of
- [Pope Benedict and All the Saints](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/11/01/pope-benedict-and-all-the-saints/) - HOLY MASS ON THE SOLEMNITY OF ALL SAINTS HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI Vatican Basilica Wednesday, 1 November 2006 Dear Brothers and Sisters, Our Eucharistic celebration began with the exhortation: "Let us all rejoice in the Lord". The liturgy invites us to share in the heavenly jubilation of the Saints, to taste
- [Luther's Fateful All Hallowed Eve](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/31/luthers-re-formation/) - (Here is a re-post of a reflection on this 'All Hallow's Eve' anniversary of the generally accepted date for the formal start of the 'Reformation', when legend has it that Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door of the Catholilc Church at Wittenberg on this day in 1517. More likely, as historians attest, he
- [Saint Alphonus Rodriguez](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/31/saint-alphonus-rodriguez/) - One year after Martin Luther supposedly pinned his 95 Theses to the door of All Saints Church in Wittenberg (they were likely mailed to his superiors, but legends abound), Alphonsus Rodriguez (1532 - 1617) was born in Segovia, Spain. The latter lived in some ways a life almost the direct opposite of the fiery and
- [The Bishops of Ontario Prepare for the Second Vatican Council](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/31/the-bishops-of-ontario-prepare-for-the-second-vatican-council/) - This year marks the sixtieth anniversary of the closing of the Second Vatican Council and also the sixty-third anniversary of the opening of the Council on October 11, 1962, the Feast of Our Lady’s Divine Maternity in the usus antiquior. At its closing in 1965, Pope Paul VI, the pope who would bring the Council
- [Musical Offering: Hassler, Grieg and Our Lady](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/26/hassler-grieg-and-our-lady/) - A blessed Sunday to one and all! German composer Hans Leo Hassler was born on this October 26th in 1564, bringing much of the genius and style of Italian renaissance polyphony into his compositions. Although a Protestant (an early one, given his era), much of what he wrote was Catholic, in theme, sympathy and text,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/28/46702/) - To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you without blemish before the presence of his glory with rejoicing, to the only God, our Saviour through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and for ever (Letter of Saint Jude, Apostle)
- [Saints Simon, Jude and Desperate Causes](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/28/simon-jude-and-hopeless-cases/) - All of the Apostles have a feast day, and on this third last day of October, in the crisp days of fall, we celebrate Saints Simon and Jude, the latter, in particular, being invoked as the patron of desperate causes. On that note, this is also the day that Emperor Constantine won his victory over Maxentius at
- [Pope Benedict and Saints Simon and Jude](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/28/pope-benedict-and-saints-simon-and-jude-2/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter’s Square Wednesday, 11 October 2006 Simon and Jude Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, let us examine two of the Twelve Apostles: Simon the Cananaean and Jude Thaddaeus (not to be confused with Judas Iscariot). Let us look at them together, not only because they are always placed next to
- [Whose Land Is It, After All?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/28/whose-land-is-it-after-all/) - The difficulty with apologies is that at some point someone’s going to take you at your word. If we claim that we’re living on unceded – which is to say stolen – land, it seems inevitable that the land will be demanded back. This is no longer in the esoteric realm of academic discourse, or
- [Leo, Francis and Tradition on the Death Penalty](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/27/leo-francis-and-tradition-on-the-death-penalty/) - Late this past month, the pontiff, upon leaving Castel Gandolfo, the papal retreat on Lake Albano near Rome, took time to take a few questions from the media. An American journalist asked for his views on Cardinal Cupich’s recent decision to give the Rerum Novarum Award for lifetime achievement to U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (Democrat-Illinois) -- a self-identifying Catholic
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/25/46671/) - I do not fear at all what men can do to me for speaking the truth. I only fear what God would do if I were to lie (St. John Bosco, +1888)
- [Saint Crispin, Agincourt and the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/25/saint-crispin-agincourt-and-the-forty-martyrs/) - This day, October the 25th, is Saint Crispin's Day - or, rather, the feast of Saint Crispin and Crispianus, for let us not forget that there were two brothers put to death during the reign of Diocletian in the middle of the third century, circa 285, during the same persecution that took Saint Lawrence and
- [Canada’s Ominous Bills That Would Make Orwell Blush](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/24/canadas-ominous-bills-that-would-make-orwell-blush/) - Over the past decade, Canada has slid from policing words to policing thoughts. What was once the domain of dystopian fiction, such as Minority Report (based on the 1956 short story The Minority Report by Philip K. Dick), and Orwell’s 1984, is quickly becoming legislative reality. In Parliament, laws keep piling up, each one nibbling
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/23/46662/) - When I am before the Blessed Sacrament I feel such a lively faith that I can't describe it. Christ in the Eucharist is almost tangible to me...When it is time for me to leave, I have to tear myself away from His sacred presence. (Saint Anthony Mary Claret, +1870)
- [Anthony Mary Claret, On Fire for God](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/24/anthony-mary-claret-life-fully-lived/) - Anthony Mary Claret died on this day, October 24th, 1870, after a long, full and adventurous life, demonstrating how much one man can do if he puts his mind and will wholeheartedly to the plow in God's vineyard. Most of the life of this zealous priest, and eventual bishop, was spent in Spain, followed by
- [Quasimodo's Hope and Mercy](https://catholicinsight.com/2020/04/19/quasimodos-hope-and-mercy/) - This last day in the Octave of Easter marks the twentieth anniversary of the proclamation of this Sunday as dedicated to the Divine Mercy by Pope Saint John Paul II – and a blessed one to all our readers - formerly, and still, the Second Sunday of Easter, and, in the usus antiquior, Quasimodo Sunday,
- [The Fightin' Friar of Capistrano](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/23/the-soldierly-franciscan/) - John of Capistrano (+1456) lived a life very much in the ‘world’ at first, studying law, and becoming involved with the political machinations of the fractious fifteenth century. He was appointed as ambassador from Perugia to the quarrelsome family of the Maletestas - which, ironically, means 'evil heads' - to broker peace, a mission which
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/22/46651/) - Do not be afraid. Open, I say open wide the doors for Christ. To his saving power open the boundaries of states, economic and political systems, the vast fields of culture, civilization and development. Do not be afraid. Christ knows “that which is in man”. He alone knows it. (Pope Saint John Paul II, +2005)
- [The Late, Great Saint John Paul II](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/22/pope-saint-john-paul-ii-a-reflection/) - Today marks the memorial of Pope Saint John Paul II, who was beatified on May 1st, 2011 by Pope Benedict XVI, and canonized three years later by Pope Francis on April 27th in 2014. This October 22nd was chosen as his feast, for it was on this day in 1978 that Karol Wojtyla, Archbishop of
- [Dopehead Dominion](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/17/46621/) - This day marks the seventh year since Justin Trudeau's legalized marijuana here in our benighted Dominion, with Canada thereby becoming the second sovereign nation to legalize the green weed (Uruguay beat us to the punch bowl). Feel free to peruse something I wrote for Crisis, which I have re-posted here on Catholic Insight, on the moral difference
- [The Passion of Saint Paul of the Cross](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/19/the-passion-of-saint-paul-of-the-cross/) - There are two options today for saints - the first are the North American Martyrs, also called the Canadian Martyrs, but who most accurately may be termed the French missionary martyrs to a country that would later be called Canada, in which dominion we celebrate them as a feast in Canada on September 26th, as
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/19/46640/) - His gift is very great indeed, but our capacity is too small and limited to receive it. That is why we are told: Enlarge your desires, do not bear the yoke with unbelievers. The deeper our faith, the stronger our hope, the greater our desire, the larger will be our capacity to receive that gift, which
- [Thanksgiving Day](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/13/thanksgiving-day/) - A blessed and joyful Thanksgiving to all of our readers! Even our American ones who, of course, hold their own day of thanks later in November, but who do honour Christopher Columbus on this day; or they used to, for that, like so much else, is now resonant with its own controversial cultural overtones. We
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/18/46634/) - In the first book, O The-oph'ilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commandment through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. (Acts 1:1-2)
- [Luke, Evangelist, Physician, Artist](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/18/luke-evangelist-and-physician/) - A blessed feast of Saint Luke (+84) to all our readers! He was one of the four evangelists, author of the third Gospel - and also, as our Tradition has it, of the Acts of the Apostles. Hence, he was therefore responsible for a quarter of the New Testament, more than any other writer. He
- [Saint Ignatius of Antioch, God's Ground Wheat](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/17/saint-ignatius-of-antioch-gods-ground-wheat/) - Saint Ignatius of Antioch (+107) joyfully ‘went to the lions’, as the saying goes, meeting his martyrdom in the arena of the Coliseum in the eternal city, perhaps less than a decade after the death of the last Apostle, John the Evangelist. Ignatius was the epi-scopos – literally the ‘overseer’ – of the ancient diocese
- [What's Wrong with the University?](https://catholicinsight.com/2016/01/19/11194-2/) - Chesterton wrote his collection of essays, 'What's Wrong with the World', back in 1912. And his answer, even back then in those halcyonic days before the Great War, was a lot. I thought that I would take on a smaller task in these few words, on what is wrong with our modern university, as students
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/17/46619/) - I am writing to all the Churches and I enjoin all, that I am dying willingly for God's sake, if only you do not prevent it. I beg you, do not do me an untimely kindness. Allow me to be eaten by the beasts, which are my way of reaching to God. I am God's
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Ignatius of Antioch](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/17/pope-benedict-and-saint-ignatius-of-antioch/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE St Peter's Square Wednesday, 14 March 2007 Saint Ignatius of Antioch Dear Brothers and Sisters, As we already did last Wednesday, we are speaking about the figures of the early Church. Last week we spoke of Pope Clement I, the third Successor of St Peter. Today, we will be speaking of
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/16/46613/) - I have never lost confidence in our Heavenly Father (Saint Marguerite d'Youville, +1771)
- [Saint Marguerite d'Youville](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/16/saint-marguerite-dyouville/) - MARGUERITE d'YOUVILLE, the first native Canadian to be elevated to sainthood, was born October 15, 1701 at Varennes, Quebec. She was the eldest of six children born to Christophe Dufrost de Lajemmerais and Marie-Renée Gaultier. Her father died when she was seven years old leaving this family of six in great poverty. It was only
- [Saint Callixtus: From Slave, to Pope, to Martyr](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/14/callixtus-and-hippolytus-in-sardinia/) - This is the memorial of Saints Callixtus, (+222-223) (also spelled Callistus), whose life is historically shrouded, as are many of the early Christians. Some say he was a reformed slave who lived a rather dissolute and rebellious life in youth, with theft and street fighting as part of his resumé - or rap sheet. if
- [Asinine Astrology](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/16/asinine-astrology/) - Astrology today is a $3 billion dollar online industry. According to one source, 95% of Americans know their astrological sign and roughly 70% of millennials turn to astrology seeking guidance and reassurance in times of trouble. Astrology is one of the oldest methods of human reckoning. It is associated with prehistoric religions that were based
- [A Panoply of Four Saints](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/16/a-day-of-four-saints/) - We celebrate a veritable panoply of saints today: In Canada, we have the memorial of Saint Marguerite D’Youville (+1771), the first Canadian-born saint. She was a lovely Quebecoise, who married young to a dissolute man, Francois d'Youville, a dissipated bootlegger who sold liquor to the easily-addicted Natives, and would disappear for long periods. He did
- [Teresa of Avila, Doctor of Prayer](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/15/teresa-teacher-prayer/) - Today is the feast of Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582), a discalced Carmelite nun who reformed the Order, which traced its origins way back to the 12th century in the Holy Land, to that very 'Carmel' spoken of in such exalted terms in Scripture where Elijah met with God. The Order developed through the ages,
- [Pope Benedict and Teresa of Avila](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/15/pope-benedict-and-teresa-of-avila/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 2 February 2011 [Video] Saint Teresa of Avila Dear Brothers and Sisters, In the course of the Catecheses that I have chosen to dedicate to the Fathers of the Church and to great theologians and women of the Middle Ages I have also had the opportunity
- [The Beauty and Unity of Child of These Tears](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/14/the-beauty-and-unity-of-child-of-these-tears/) - Child of These Tears by Molly McNett Slant Books, October 1st, 2025 For an excerpt, see the Slant webpage here Being human is being peculiar to all of creation. We have a body that tends toward the way of all flesh, that wilts and fades. But we have too a spirit, akin to the angels,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/13/46590/) - I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder (G.K. Chesterton, +1936)
- [Fatima’s Miracle of the Sun](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/13/fatimas-vision-at-103/) - This 13th day of October marks the anniversary final apparition of Our Lady at Fatima in the fateful year of 1917, to the three seers Jacinta, Francisco and Lucia. The Virgin appeared as the Sorrowful Mother and Our Lady of Mount Carmel, along with Saint Joseph and the Christ child, Who blessed the earth. Fatima
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/11/46577/) - Consult not your fears but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do. (Pope Saint John XXIII, +1963)
- [Good Pope John and His Council](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/11/good-pope-john-and-his-council/) - Today marks the anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council, now more than six decades back to those heady days of the early sixties, the future, to many eyes, full of promise and hope, throwing off the shackles of their own ancien regime, the bourgeois suburbia of the post-war era giving way to
- [Submarine Schadenfreude](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/10/submarine-schadenfreude/) - Schadenfreude is one of those double-barreled German words that signifies more than its literal meaning. Like schweinehund - pig-dog - which brings to mind a whole panoply of images, schadenfreude - sorrow-joy - implies taking pleasant satisfaction at the misery of another, especially when they fully deserve it. One may think of nemesis in action.
- [The Holy Rosary Through the Visions of Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/07/the-holy-rosary-through-the-visions-of-blessed-anne-catherine-emmerich/) - Compiled and edited by Fr. Mark Higgins Catholic Way Publishing, 2019 ISBN-13: 978-1-78379-510-9 Paperback CDN$13.08 on Amazon.ca In modern-day Marian apparitions, Our Blessed Mother repeats her urgent message: pray, fast, make reparation for the sins committed against the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. With every approved appearance, Our Lady exhorts
- [Pius XII: Staunch Defender of Cardinal Mindszenty](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/09/pius-xii-staunch-defender-of-cardinal-mindszenty/) - Today, October 9th, marks sixty-seven years since the death of Pope Pius XII, lovingly known as the Pastor Angelicus throughout his pontificate which spanned nearly two decades. The eighty-fifth anniversary of his election as pope (which took place on his sixty-third birthday in 1939) occurred last year. 2024 also saw the twenty-fifth anniversary of Benedict
- [Saving a Soul in the Last Week of Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/09/reaching-out-to-a-soul-in-the-last-week-of-life/) - “Faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” James 2:14-17 This is the remarkable story of a man who reached out to an old friend in need. What was this need? A job? Help with some house or landscaping project? Money? Advice on relationships, vacations, cars? Sometimes when we’re younger, reaching out
- [Saint Denis of Paris and Saint John Leonardi of Lucca](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/09/saint-denis-of-paris-and-saint-john-leonardi-of-lucca/) - Besides the great John Henry Newman, we also commemorate two other saints on this day: Saint Denis, patron of Paris, was the first bishop of what would later be called the 'city of lights', and he himself was one of her greatest lights. Denis - in Latin, Dionysius - was likely martyred in the mid-third
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/09/46544/) - For 30, 40, 50 years I have resisted to the best of my powers the spirit of liberalism in religion... Liberalism in religion is the doctrine that there is no positive truth in religion, but that one creed is as good as another, and this is the teaching which is gaining substance and force daily
- [Benedict Beatifying Newman](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/09/benedict-beatifying-newman/) - MASS WITH THE BEATIFICATION OF VENERABLE CARDINAL JOHN HENRY NEWMAN HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI Cofton Park of Rednal - Birmingham Sunday, 19 September 2010 Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, This day that has brought us together here in Birmingham is a most auspicious one. In the first place, it is the Lord’s
- [Newman the Kindly Prophet](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/09/newman-the-prophet/) - Although John Henry Cardinal Newman died on August 11th, in 1890, the Church commemorates him on this October 9th. For it was on this day in 1845 that the former Anglican minister, halfway through his earthly journey, finally convinced of the truth, converted to the fullness of the Faith and was received into the Church
- [Our Lady of Good Remedy](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/08/our-lady-of-good-remedy/) - On this October 8th, we commemorate Our Lady of Good Remedy, fittingly the day after Our Lady of the Rosary (also called Our Lady of Victory). Our Lady of Good Remedy is a title of the Blessed Virgin Mother of God which goes back eight centuries, to Saint John Matha and the Trinitarians, whose primary
- [The Holy Rosary, the Hope of Lepanto, of Europe, of the World...](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/07/saved-by-the-rosary/) - Today we celebrate Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, a feast instituted by Pope Saint Pius V in commemoration of the great victory at Lepanto on October 7th in 1571, when the Christian fleet led by Don Juan of Austria crushed the invading, and seemingly invincible, navy of the Ottoman Turks, who had turned
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/06/46523/) - There is no surer means of calling down God's blessing upon the family than the daily recitation of the Rosary. (Pope Pius XII, +1958)
- [What's Wrong with this Broken World](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/06/whats-wrong-with-this-broken-world/) - There can be no disputing the following fact: the Catholic Church began with the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The first worshipers of the child Jesus as the future Messiah were Mary and Joseph. They knew very well, according to the Gospel of Luke, that Jesus would be miraculously conceived as the
- [Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher: Forming the Next Generation](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/06/blessed-durocher-forming-the-next-generation/) - Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher (+1849) is commemorated today along with Saint Bruno, a Canadian sister, who, under the inspiration of Saint Eugene de Mazenod and Bishop Bourget, founded the Sisters of the Holy Name of Jesus and Mary, to educate young girls. She was born on this day, October 6th, in 1811, and christened Eulalie, the
- [Bruno's Great Silence](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/06/brunos-silence/) - On this early Fall day of October the 6th, we fittingly celebrate Saint Bruno (+1101), teacher, bishop, confidante of the Pope and, perhaps most pertinent to the history of Christendom, the founder of the Carthusians, the only Order in the Church never to have been reformed, in large part since they never needed reforming. They
- [Fortunate Faustina and the Divine Mercy](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/05/faustina-the-fortunate-one/) - Today we celebrate one of the newest of saints in the liturgical calendar, placed therein only a few years ago, with October 5th, the day she entered eternity, chosen as the memorial Saint Faustina Kowalska (1905 - 1938). She is the sister who received numerous visions of Our Lord manifested as ‘the Divine Mercy’, with
- [Twenty Seventh Sunday: Esther, Our Lady and the Message of Fatima](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/05/twenty-seventh-sunday-esther-our-lady-and-the-message-of-fatima/) - Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise (Hab. 1:3). ⧾ Our first reading today is taken from the book of the Prophet Habakkuk, one of the Minor Prophets. It is a book that is only three chapters long that addresses a serious question: the problem of evil. O Lord, how long shall
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/04/41666-2/) - Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible. (Saint Francis of Assisi, +1226)
- [Saint Francis: A Most Radical Man](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/04/the-poor-and-radical-man/) - There are as many ways to follow Christ as there are humans beings, even if many seem not to avail themselves of the grace Our Saviour offers. Some amongst the paths to sanctity are more radical than others, and by ‘radical’ we mean ‘back to the very root’, as in, how did Christ Himself actually
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Francis, Il Poverello](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/04/pope-benedict-on-il-poverello/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 27 January 2010 Saint Francis of Assisi Dear Brothers and Sisters, In a recent Catechesis, I illustrated the providential role the Orders of Friars Minor and the Order of Preachers, founded by St Francis of Assisi and St Dominic de Guzmán respectively, played in the renewal
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/02/46497/) - He has given his angels charge over you to guard you in all your ways. (Psalm 91:11)
- [Pope Leo's Problematical Reply](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/02/clarifying-pope-leo-problematical-reply/) - Popes used to avoid off-the-cuff interviews or answers to questions, knowing that the authority of their office carried far more weight, and was easily confounded with the fallible opinions of the man behind that office. Measured, thought-out, pondered and prayed over, advised and edited – only after such were papal pronouncements made. Now we have
- [Forgiveness, Not Mockery, Reveals the True Measure of a Soul](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/02/forgiveness-not-mockery-reveals-the-true-measure-of-a-soul/) - When Erika Kirk stepped up to the microphone to speak about Charlie, the mood was nothing like a staged tribute. You could witness her tremendous suffering and authenticity. Every word was marked by the love she had for him and by the faith they shared, a faith that turned even her grief into testimony. She
- [The Myriads of Holy Guardian Angels](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/02/angels-guardian/) - This memorial of the Guardian Angels goes back to the year 1500, the very dawn of the Protestant ‘Reformation’, seventeen years before Luther would pin his theses to the church door at Wittenburg on All Hallow's Eve, when the whole of Europe was still at least nominally Catholic. Although Luther, Calvin, Zwingli and company rejected
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/01/46469/) - Perfect love means putting up with other peoples shortcomings, feeling no surprise at their weaknesses, finding encouragement even in the slightest evidence of good qualities in them. (Thérèse of Lisieux, +1897)
- [Thérèse of Lisieux of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/10/01/sainte-therese-of-the-child-jesus-and-the-holy-face/) - On the first day of October we celebrate the Saint of the Little Way, Saint Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face (1873 - 1897), also known after the place of her birth and upbringing, Lisieux. She was a cloistered nun who entered the Carmel at the age of sixteen, and died at
- [Duc in Altum: A Perpetual Adoration Success Story](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/29/duc-in-altum-a-perpetual-adoration-success-story/) - "Duc in altum" is a Latin phrase meaning "put out into the deep," originating from Jesus’ words in the Gospel of Luke 5:4. Christ commanded Simon Peter to "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch" after a night of unsuccessful fishing. This moment highlights St. Peter's initial success through obedience
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/30/41650-2/) - For if, as Paul says, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God, and if the man who does not know Scripture does not know the power and wisdom of God, then ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ. (Saint Jerome, +420)
- [Saint Jerome's Holy Vulgarity](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/30/jeromes-holy-vulgarity/) - All saints change history, often in ways that are mysterious and opaque, but at times more obviously. Such is Saint Jerome (347 - 420), to whom we may attribute the first truly 'critical' version of the Bible, the edito typica, the official, Catholic version of the Holy Word of God. He was a contemporary of
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Jerome](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/30/general-audience-2007-saint-jerome/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 7 November 2007 Saint Jerome (1) Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, we turn our attention to St Jerome, a Church Father who centred his life on the Bible: he translated it into Latin, commented on it in his works, and above all, strove to live it in
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/29/46452/) - personal names are assigned to some, not because they could not be known without them, but rather to denote their ministry when they came among us. Thus, Michael means “Who is like God”; Gabriel is “The Strength of God”; and Raphael is “God’s Remedy. (Saint Gregory the Great, +604)
- [Canada Moribunda?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/26/canada-moribunda/) - The title says much of what is in this grim article: Canada, old, poorer, smaller. That is, old and smaller demographically, not in the geological or geographic sense. I strive to see things as they really are, that Canada is in a death spiral, after so many years - nay, decades - of moral, social
- [The Holy Archangels and Spiritual Warfare](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/29/the-holy-archangels-and-spiritual-warfare/) - A blessed feast of the Archangels to all our readers! As Father Scott Murray's article on the Saint Michael prayer points out that this used to be the feast only of the great defender of heaven, he ‘who is like God’, hence, its traditional title of Michaelmas. The other two angels were added in the
- [Saint Michael and the Eucharistic Eschatological Battle](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/29/saint-michaels-eucharistic-and-eschatological-battle/) - The great dragon, the primeval serpent, known as the devil or Satan, who had deceived all the world, was hurled down to the earth and his angels were hurled down with him (Rev. 12:9). Today in the Archdiocese of Toronto we celebrate the Feast of St. Michael, the Archangel and observe it as a Solemnity.
- [Wenceslaus and Lorenzo, Incidental Martyrs](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/28/lorenzo-the-unintentional-missionary-and-martyr/) - This is not the stuff of which martyrs are made - So purportedly said Thomas More, who loved all the good things of life, his home at Chelsea, filled with his family, his books, and boon companions. The last thing he likely wanted to do was die for what was then an abstruse point of
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/28/46445/) - Why not learn to enjoy the little things-there are so many of them. (Saint John Chrysostom, +407)
- [Twenty-Sixth Sunday: Lazarus and Helping the Poor](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/28/twenty-sixth-sunday-lazarus-and-helping-the-poor/) - As for you, man of God; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness (1 Tim. 6:11). The parable of Lazarus and the rich man is found only in the Gospel of St. Luke. As the scribe of Our Lord’s meekness or gentleness, St. Luke records a parable that was one of the most frequently illustrated
- [Saint Vincent de Paul and Giving our All](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/27/saint-vincent-de-pauls-simple-charity/) - The life of Saint Vincent de Paul (1581 - 1660) - he always signed his name 'Depaul', perhaps so people would not think of him as noble - spans a fractious time in France, with the wars of religion nearing their apex, mixed up with bitter claims over land and money. The instability of the kingship
- [Thomas Aquinas and Natural Law Theory](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/04/12/thomas-aquinas-and-natural-law-theory/) - Introduction Natural law is a theory in ethics and philosophy that says that human beings possess intrinsic values that govern their reasoning and behavior. Natural law maintains that these rules of right and wrong are inherent in people and are not created by society or judges. This is in contrast to what is called “positive
- [Against the Smears: In Defence of Charlie Kirk’s Legacy](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/26/against-the-smears-in-defence-of-charlie-kirks-legacy/) - Charlie Kirk’s assassination on September 10, 2025, shook the conscience of the world. A young man, killed in broad daylight, was a campus speaker armed only with words, not a president with guards or a senator with influence. President Abraham Lincoln was shot at Ford’s Theatre in Washington. President James Garfield was struck down at
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/25/46427/) - My God, it grieves me greatly that you are not known, that in this savage wilderness all have not been converted to you, that sin has not been driven from it. My God, even if all the brutal tortures which prisoners in this region must endure should fall on me, I offer myself most willingly
- [The Indomitable Courage of the Canadian Martyrs](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/26/the-manliness-of-the-canadian-martyrs/) - Today in Canada we celebrate the Canadian Martyrs, who are commemorated on October 19th in the rest of the world. They are fitting examples and intercessors for our times, unhinged as we are from our moral law, our customs, our traditions and our history. As the new barbarians take power – those who can only
- [Saints Cosmas and Damian](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/25/saints-cosmas-and-damian/) - (Here in Canada, we celebrate these martyr saints today, commemorated in the universal Church tomorrow, on September 26th, which is when we here in this fair Dominion celebrate our glorious feast of the Canadian Martyrs. More on them, anon...). Cosmas and Damian, according to our tradition, were twin brothers, both Syrian physicians and converts to
- [Novena to the Canadian Martyrs](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/23/novena-to-the-canadian-martyrs/) - Here in Canada, we celebrate the feast of the Canadian Martyrs on September 26th, so the novena to them begins today. Our Dominion could certainly use their intercession, so I urge readers to join in praying to these holy men who brought the Faith to this land, and gave their lives in witness to the
- [Apologetics, 101](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/05/21/apologetics-101/) - “The Church needs to promote apologetics, which is aimed at affirming the truth of Christian revelation, the harmony of faith and reason, and a sound understanding of freedom.” Pope Benedict XVI Pope Benedict's remark is immensely relevant to our time. The question might well be raised: since the intellectual assault on religion has been chronic
- [A Reply to Apologetics 101: Question 1: Proving that God Does Indeed Exist](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/05/28/a-reply-to-apologetics-101-proving-that-god-does-indeed-exist/) - Recently, Catholic Insight posted a thoughtful note from contributor Carl Sundell on the essential questions we should be prepared to answer about our faith. This list of questions was likely meant to inspire readers to find and research their own answers to these questions. There are over 2,000 years of resources one could sift through
- [Apologetics 101, Question 5: The Immortality of the Soul](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/20/apologetics-101-part-5-the-immortality-of-the-soul/) - In response to Catholic Insight’s post of Carl Sundell’s list of 39 essential questions we Catholics should be prepared to offer answers about our faith, I have been responding to them one-by-one to equip you with clear, concise and (hopefully) well-reasoned answers to help you grow and share your Faith. None of these answers can
- [Apologetics 101, Question 2: The Scandal of Evil](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/02/apologetics-101-2-the-scandal-of-evil/) - Recently, Catholic Insight posted a thoughtful note from Carl Sundell on the essential questions we should be prepared to answer about our faith. This list of questions was likely meant to inspire readers to find and research their own answers to these questions. There are over 2,000 years of resources one could sift through in
- [Apologetics 101, Question 3: Must God Be Good?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/07/apologetics-101-part-3-must-god-be-good/) - Recently, Catholic Insight posted a thoughtful note from Carl Sundell on the essential questions we should be prepared to answer about our faith. This list of questions was likely meant to inspire readers to find and research their own answers to these questions. There are over 2,000 years of resources one could sift through in
- [Apologetics 101, Question 4: Life, Soul and Substance](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/13/apologetics-101-part-4-life-soul-and-substance/) - Recently, Catholic Insight posted a thoughtful note from Carl Sundell on the essential questions we should be prepared to answer about our faith. This list of questions was likely meant to inspire readers to find and research their own answers to these questions. There are over 2,000 years of resources one could sift through in
- [Apologetics 101, Question 6: Creation Ex Nihilo](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/23/apologetics-101-part-6-creation-ex-nihilo/) - In response to Catholic Insight’s post of Carl Sundell’s list of 39 essential questions Catholics should be prepared to answer about our faith, I have been responding to them one-by-one to equip you with clear, concise and (hopefully) well-reasoned answers to help you grow and share your Faith. None of these answers can be conclusive.
- [Apologetics 101, Question 7: A Designed versus Random Universe](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/31/apologetics-101-question-7-a-designed-versus-random-universe/) - In response to Catholic Insight’s post of Carl Sundell’s list of 39 essential questions Catholics should be prepared to answer about our faith, I have been responding to them one-by-one to equip you with clear, concise and (hopefully) well-reasoned answers to help you grow and share your Faith. None of these answers can be conclusive.
- [Apologetics 101, Question 8: Potency and Evolution](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/22/apologetics-101-question-8-potency-and-evolution/) - In response to Catholic Insight’s post of Carl Sundell’s list of 39 essential questions Catholics should be prepared to answer about our faith, I have been responding to them one-by-one to equip you with clear, concise and (hopefully) well-reasoned answers to help you grow and share your Faith. None of these answers can be conclusive.
- [Apologetics 101, Question 9: Faith, Reason and Christianity](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/12/apologetics-101-question-9-faith-reason-and-christianity/) - In response to Catholic Insight’s post of Carl Sundell’s list of 39 essential questions Catholics should be prepared to answer about our faith, I have been responding to them one-by-one to equip you with clear, concise and (hopefully) well-reasoned answers to help you grow and share your Faith. None of these answers can be conclusive.
- [Blessed Émilie Tavernier    ](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/24/blessed-emilie-tavernier-2/) - For an official biography of today's home-grown Canadian saint, the youngest of fifteen children - yes, large families are quite conducive to holiness, if lived well and with joy - beatified by Pope Saint John Paul II in 2001, here is a summary of her life from the Vatican webpage, followed by the Pontiff's homily
- [Blessed Emilie Tavernier-Gamelin and Walsingham](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/24/blessed-emilie-tavernier-gamelin-and-walsingham/) - The Church in Canada venerates a number of Canadian saints and blesseds, almost all of them from Quebec, since the rest of Canada was officially and mostly Protestant, and the Church is not permitted to beatify members of other religions, for obvious reasons, even if they die with a reputation for holiness. Such today is
- [Homily of Pope John Paul II on Padre Pio's Canonization](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/23/homily-of-pope-john-paul-ii-on-padre-pios-canonization/) - CANONIZATION OF ST PIO OF PIETRELCINA, CAPUCHIN PRIEST HOMILY OF JOHN PAUL II Sunday, 16 June 2002 1. "For my yoke is easy and my burden light" (Mt 11,30). Jesus' words to his disciples, which we just heard, help us to understand the most important message of this solemn celebration. Indeed, in a certain sense,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/23/46394/) - Always remain close to the Catholic Church, because it alone can give you true peace, since it alone possesses Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, the true Prince of Peace. (Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, +1968)
- [Saint Thomas of Villanova](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/22/saint-thomas-of-villanova/) - This Saint Thomas (1488 - 1555), of noble Spanish lineage, and had it all, as the saying goes, taking as his 'last name' the place from which he came, Villanueva. Like Christ, although rich, he became poor, even as a child giving his clothes to those less fortunate, and would be found walking around (nearly?)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/22/46390/) - It is not true, as is sometimes said, that man cannot organize the world without God. What is true is that, without God, he can only organize it against man (Henri Cardinal de Lubac, +1991)
- [International Hobbit Day](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/22/international-hobbit-day/) - In the midst of all the bad news swirling around us - about which more anon - it may provide some small comfort to commemorate in some way International Hobbit Day, which falls on September 22nd, the traditional 'birthdays' of both Frodo and Bilbo Baggins, nephew and uncle respectively. The Hobbit itself - as a
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Matthew](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/21/pope-benedict-and-saint-matthew/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 30 August 2006 Matthew Dear Brothers and Sisters, Continuing the series of portraits of the Twelve Apostles that we began a few weeks ago, let us reflect today on Matthew. To tell the truth, it is almost impossible to paint a complete picture of him because
- [Twenty-Fifth Sunday and Using Wealth Wisely](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/21/twenty-fifth-sunday-and-using-wealth-wisely/) - You cannot serve God and mammon (Lk. 16:13). ⧾ At face value, it would seem that that the Gospel text of the Mass appears to be in favour of dishonesty in business dealing. Yet, like all of Our Lord’s parables, there is a deeper meaning that can only be accessed by faith. At the theological level,
- [Saint Andrew Kim-Taegon and the Martyrs of Korea](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/20/12078-2/) - Today we commemorate the feast of the countless martyrs of Korea, led by the indomitable convert priest, Father Andrew Kim Taegon, who was eventually tortured and beheaded by the shores of the Han River in 1846 at the tender age of 25. Thousands more were likewise killed for their faith, 103 of whom were canonized
- [Charlie Kirk: A Poem, In Memoriam](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/19/charlie-kirk-a-poem-in-memoriam/) - Father, when we step into the night, guide us with Your precious light. To this land of the free and brave Please come to hallow and to save. When dark Night comes to often kill, Stop him with Your awesome will. If Satan moves to bend and break us Let Your
- [Saint Januarius' Blood](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/19/januarius-and-his-blood-2/) - Saint Januarius was bishop of Benevuento, in the south-west of Italy, about whom a number of legends are told - that he survived unscathed being burnt in a furnace, that wild bears refused to touch him in the amphitheatre - but all we know for relative certainty is that he was put to death in
- [Saint Joseph of Cupertino's Levity](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/18/joseph-of-cupertinos-ordinary-miracles/) - According to the laws of physics, a man should not be able to fly, at least without technological help. But are not the 'laws of physics', as Chesterton posits, themselves miracles? Why should trees produce scrumptious apples, or water and the sky different shades of Marian blue? Why should we, hairless apes according to some,
- [Saint Robert Bellarmine's Clarity of Mind and Soul](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/17/bellarmine-clear-in-mind-and-soul/) - In the midst of the theological and cultural confusion in which our Church is mired, we could use a few more men with the clear, disciplined, Thomistic mind of Robert Bellarmine (+1621), bishop, cardinal, doctor of the Church, and, yes, a Jesuit. But this was back in the days when the Order was young and,
- [Vienna and Europe Saved in the Holy Name of Mary...For a Time](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/12/the-battle-of-vienna-and-the-holy-name-of-mary/) - September 12th commemorates the Holy Name of Mary, made sacred by the holiness of the Theotokos, the Mother of God, full of grace. It was Pope Innocent XI – a great and holy reforming Pontiff who resisted the Gallican ambitions of Louis XIV (who did not send any help to Vienna), who cleaned up the Vatican,
- [Triumph of the Holy Cross](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/14/feast-of-the-exaltation-of-the-holy-cross/) - We should glory in the Cross of our Lord Jesus, in whom is our salvation, life and resurrection, through whom we are saved and delivered (Entrance Antiphon, Cf. Gal 6:14). Today’s Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, one of the Church’s oldest, celebrates the triumph of God’s humility over man’s pride "for the
- [Vexilla Regis Prodeunt!](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/14/vexilla-regis-prodeunt/) - A blessed Feast of the Triumph of the Cross to one and all of our readers! For added devotion and splendour to this celebration of Christ's victory over death by the Cross, here are three versions of the ancient hymn, Vexilla Regis Prodeunt, composed by Venantius Fortunatus (+609), bishop of Poitiers. First, the poetry of
- [Witness and Testimony: What Others Revealed About Charlie Kirk](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/17/witness-and-testimony-what-others-revealed-about-charlie-kirk/) - Charlie Kirk’s assassination unleashed not only predictable smears from his critics but also some of the most grotesque and dehumanizing responses imaginable toward an innocent man who left behind a wife and two young children. Among them were a taxpayer-funded Canadian social worker openly cheering his death, a professor at the University of Victoria gloating
- [Charlie Kirk, Apologist for the Truth](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/16/charlie-kirk-apologist-for-the-truth/) - I must confess that I knew almost nothing about Charlie Kirk before his death. When one of my former students – now a young father – mentioned his assassination as he walked by my house, I dimly thought Charlie might be Russel Kirk’s son. But he is no relation, except in being both Christian and
- [Saint Hildegarde von Bingen, a Woman for All Seasons](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/17/saint-hildegarde-von-bingen-a-woman-for-all-seasons/) - Hildegarde von Bingen (+1179) is one of the newest saints in the liturgical calendar, canonized 'equipollently' by Pope Benedict XVI on May 12, 2012 (since she had always been regarded as a saint, but never officially canonized). Her feast was extended to the universal Church, now on the same day as Saint Robert Bellarmine (so
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/17/29995-2/) - Even in a world that's being shipwrecked, remain brave and strong. (Saint Hildegarde von Bingen, +1179)
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Hildegarde of Bingen](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/17/pope-benedict-and-saint-hildegarde-of-bingen/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Papal Summer Residence, Castel Gandolfo Wednesday, 1st September 2010 Saint Hildegard of Bingen Dear Brothers and Sisters, In 1988, on the occasion of the Marian Year, Venerable John Paul II wrote an Apostolic Letter entitled Mulieris Dignitatem on the precious role that women have played and play in the life of the Church.
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/17/46345/) - Therefore consider that to be for your real good which brings you to your goal, and that to be really bad which cuts you off from this goal. Prosperity and adversity, riches and poverty, health and sickness, honour and ignominy, life and death should not be sought after for themselves by the wise man nor
- [Pope Benedict and Robert Bellarmine](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/17/pope-benedict-and-robert-bellarmine/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 23 February 2011 [Video] Saint Robert Bellarmine Dear Brothers and Sisters, Born on 4 October 1542 in Montepulciano near Siena, he was the nephew, on his mother’s side, of Pope Marcellus II. He had an excellent formation in the humanities before entering the Society of Jesus
- [Saints Cornelius and Cyprian, Shepherds for Christ and Martyrs for His Truth](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/16/saints-cornelius-and-cyprian/) - Saint Cornelius was Pope for a scant two years in the middle of the third century, elected in 251 and put to death in 253 in the persecution under Emperor Decius. During his short tenure, he had to deal with the machinations of his fellow schismatic bishop Novatian, who eventually declared himself the true Pope,
- [Mater Dolorosa, Mother of Sorrows](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/15/mater-dolorosa-mother-of-sorrows/) - A blessed memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows to all. This feast was first celebrated in the year 1233 - in the youth of that greatest of centuries, when Thomas Aquinas was but a young lad of eight, given as an Oblate to the Benedictines of Montecassino. It was the newly-founded Servite Order in Florence,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/15/46322/) - For if he could die in body, could she not die with him in spirit? He died in body through a love greater than anyone had known. She died in spirit through a love unlike any other since his. (Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, +1153)
- [Felicitationes ad Leonem, Papam](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/15/felicitationes-ad-leonem-papam/) - We here at Catholic Insight would like to extend our heartiest, if a bit belated, birthday greetings to Pope Leo XIV, who turned 70 on the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross, a propitious day to come into this world. As the Psalmist says (90/91:10), we have those number of years in our span,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/14/46315/) - We are celebrating the feast of the cross which drove away darkness and brought in the light. As we keep this feast, we are lifted up with the crucified Christ, leaving behind us earth and sin so that we may gain the things above. (Saint Andrew of Crete, +8th c.)
- [Pope Saint John Paul II Reflects on the Salvific Cross](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/14/pope-john-paul-iis-reflection-on-the-cross/) - (An excerpt from a homily preached by Pope Saint John Paul II in Lesotho, in 1988): In the Gospel of this feast we are witnesses of a unusual conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus. The conversation takes place at night because Nicodemus, a prominent Jew, went to talk with Christ under the cover of darkness. Christ leads this
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/14/46303/) - We adore Thee, O Christ, and we praise Thee, for by Thy Holy Cross Thou hast redeemed the world.
- [The Fifth Apparition of Fatima](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/13/fifth-apparition-of-fatima/) - On September 13th, 1917, Our Lady appeared for the fifth time to the three children at Cova de Iria in Fatima. Tens of thousands showed up, clogging the streets and byways, in the hope of catching a glimpse, or even just to 'be there'. The message of the Virgin Mary was simple, and full of
- [John Chrysostom: The Man with the Golden Mouth](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/13/the-man-with-the-golden-mouth/) - Saint John Chrysostom (+407) was a model bishop, a doctor of the Church, an ascetic and contemplative monk who wanted only to retreat from the turmoil of life in the Eastern empire, and live a life devoted entirely to God. He was chosen first as a priest in Antioch, where he became renowned for his
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/12/46186/) - In dangers, in anguish, in doubt, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let her name be ever on your lips, ever in your heart; and the better to obtain the help of her prayers, imitate the example of her life. Following her, you do not stray; invoking her, you do not despair; thinking of her,
- [The Bloody Elephant in the Room: Abortion and Western Canada](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/11/the-bloody-elephant-in-the-room-abortion-and-western-canada/) - Once upon a time, there was a strange belief that the importance of a “free press” lay not only in the existence of independent, privately supported reporting; another value was that of providing a platform for healthy, civil discourse spanning a variety of topics and opinions. Well, such a value seems to be abhorrent to
- [Bruckner’s Ave Maria](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/08/bruckners-ave-maria/) - In honour of Our Lady's birthday, here is Anton Bruckner’s Ave Maria, which he composed in 1861, and first performed on May 12th of that year. Bruckner was one of the great composers of the twentieth century, and a devout Catholic, with a deep devotion to Our Lady. May honour to her Immaculate Heart resound
- [Charlie Kirk, Requiescat in Pace](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/10/charlie-kirk-requiescat-in-pace/) - On September 10, 2025, 31-year-old conservative activist Charlie Kirk—co-founder of Turning Point USA and host of the “Prove Me Wrong” debate series—was fatally shot at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, during the first stop of his “American Comeback Tour”. The shooting occurred when Kirk was answering a student’s question about transgenderism and gun violence at about 12:10 p.m. MST, shortly after the
- [Peter Claver's Untiring Fidelity](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/09/clavers-fidelity/) - Saint Peter Claver (+Sept. 8, 1654), whom we celebrate on this 9th day of September, was a Jesuit priest in the first missionary fervour of Ignatius' nascent Society, a native of Spain, but who spent most of his life evangelizing in what is now Colombia, South America, ministering with what means he could to the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/11/46173/) - If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter. (George Washington, +1799)
- [Twenty Third Sunday: The Cross, the Eucharist, and Eternal Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/07/twenty-third-sunday-the-cross-the-eucharist-and-life-eternal/) - ‘Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple’ (Lk. 14:27). ⧾ This saying of Our Lord is very well known to us and we know that it expresses the essence of our Christian discipleship and commitment – the embrace of the cross. Are we willing to carry our
- [Our Lady's Birthday](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/08/our-ladys-birthday/) - A blessed and joyful birthday to the Blessed Virgin Mary! This feast that has been celebrated since at least the sixth century in Syria, in the wake of the proclamation of Mary as the Mother of God, and, by corollary, co-Redemptrix of the human race, at the Council of Ephesus in 431. Mary is Theotokos, the
- [The Hope and Joy of Pier Giorgio Frassati](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/07/the-hope-and-joy-of-pier-giorgio/) - (On this Sunday, September 7th, Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati is being canonized, along with fellow Italian, Blessed Carlo Acutis. Both died young - Carlo at 15, Pier Giorgio at 24 - and hence are two of the patrons of youth, but they are otherwise quite different. I haven't written on Carlo, yet, but did venerate
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/08/46150/) - Therefore, let all creation sing and dance and unite to make worthy contribution to the celebration of this day. Let there be one common festival for saints in heaven and men on earth. Let everything, mundane things and those above, join in festive celebration. Today this created world is raised to the dignity of a
- [Musical Offering: Rossini's La Gazza Ladra](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/07/musical-offering-rossini-la-gazza-ladra/) - In honour of the two newest saints in the Church panoply, here is the overture to Rossini's opera La Gazza Ladra - the Thieving Magpie. I'm not sure about Carlo Acutis' proclivities to opera (as mentioned, he died at the tender age of 15, and was more given to technology than music). But we do
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/07/46140/) - You ask me whether I am in good spirits. How could I not be so? As long as Faith gives me strength I will always be joyful. Sadness ought to be banished from Catholic souls... the purpose for which we have been created shows us the path; even if strewn with many thorns, it is
- [Strong demand, intense debates: Ontario’s Catholic schools at a crossroads](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/01/strong-demand-intense-debates-ontarios-catholic-schools-at-a-crossroads/) - As students prepare to bid farewell to summer and head back to school, Catholic education in Ontario may be at a crossroads. In Ontario, as in Alberta and Saskatchewan, Catholic schools are government-funded under a separate public school system. About a third of Ontario students — well over 500,000 — are estimated to attend Catholic
- [The Not so Hidden Life of Blessed John Juvenal Ancina](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/30/the-not-so-hidden-life-of-john-juvenal-ancina/) - Saint Philip Neri, the founder of the Oratorians and the ‘second Apostle’ of Rome, recommended reading books beginning with ‘S’, that is, lives of the saints, so that we may imitate at least some degree of their virtues. He himself wanted all of his own spiritual sons to achieve sanctity, but in as hidden a
- [Saint Raymond, the Not-Born, and Saint Aristedes, the Apologist](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/31/saint-raymond-the-not-born-and-saint-aristedes-the-apologist/) - Saint Raymond Nonnatus, who died on this day in 1240, was a Mercedarian priest, whose Order, as their name implies, was taskedwith ransoming Christian slaves from the Moors (that is, Muslims). We might consider that a controversial practice, as ironically incentivizing capturing more slaves to receive more in the way of reward, but in its
- [Labour Day, Leisure and Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/01/labour-leisure-and-life/) - Labour Day is a rather prosaic name for the last holiday of summer. Why not, 'blow out day', or 'the end of leisure, and back to work day' (at least for teachers and students), or 'summer's almost over' day...Ah, well, love's labour - or the love of labour - is not lost. In the end,
- [The Legendary Hermit, Saints Giles, or Egidio](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/01/saints-giles-or-egidio/) - The life of Saint Giles, as many mediaeval saints, is steeped in legend. What we do know is that he had quite a following, his popularity attested by the countless places, villages, cities, churches are named after him, including the Italian variant of his name, Egidio. He was a hermit, likely in the 6th century,
- [Andre Grasset, Canada's First Homegrown Beatus](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/02/andre-grasset-canadas-first-beatus-and-martyr/) - Blessed André Grassett was the first Canadian to be beatified - not quite the first 'saint', which requires canonization, and that honour belongs to the heroic Jesuit martyrs (if we consider them Canadian, for they were all missionaries, born in France). The first canonized saint who was both born and died in Canada is Marguerite
- [Gregory the Great, a Pope for All Seasons](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/03/gregory-a-pope-for-the-ages/) - One of the great joys of history is reminiscing about the past, giving hope for the present; for history is ‘eschatological’, moving towards a final purpose. Hence, we Catholics should never lose hope, and this virtue is easier to cultivate and foster in our souls if, as Christ said, we could but read the signs.
- [Dina Belanger's Unrelenting Quest for Perfection](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/04/dina-belangers-quest/) - Blessed Dina Belanger (+1929) is a home-grown Canadian saint whom we commemorate today. (The martyr Andre Grasset, whom we celebrated two days ago, is still a beatus). Born April 30th, 1897 in St. Roch, Quebec, now a suburb of the capital city, Dina was baptized a few hours later. (After all, why wait?) From an
- [Teresa of Calcutta's Mission to the Poorest of the Poor](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/05/teresa-of-calcuttas-mission-to-the-poorest-of-the-poor/) - As universities gear up to receive students, we should leave the travails of this world for a moment and ponder the other-worldliness of Mother Saint Teresa of Calcutta (+1997) who did not go to university, but who was nevertheless far better educated and formed than most modern graduates: Solidly grounded in what we would now know as
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/04/46118/) - The poverty in the West is a different kind of poverty -- it is not only a poverty of loneliness but also of spirituality. There's a hunger for love, as there is a hunger for God. (Saint Teresa of Calcutta, +1997)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/02/46110/) - We ascend to the heights of contemplation by the steps of action. (Saint Gregory the Great, +604)
- [Pope Benedict's Second Address on Pope Gregory the Great](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/03/pope-benedicts-second-address-on-pope-gregory-the-great/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Wednesday, 4 June 2008 Saint Gregory the Great (2) Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, at our Wednesday appointment, I return to the extraordinary figure of Pope Gregory the Great to receive some additional light from his rich teaching. Notwithstanding the many duties connected to his office as the Bishop of Rome,
- [Pope Benedict's First Address on Saint Gregory the Great](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/09/03/pope-benedict-first-address-on-saint-gregory/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Wednesday, 28 May 2008 Saint Gregory the Great (1) Dear Brothers and Sisters, Last Wednesday I spoke of a Father of the Church little known in the West, Romanus the Melodist. Today I would like to present the figure of one of the greatest Fathers in the history of the Church,
- [Musical Offering: Mozart's Clarinet Concerto](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/31/musical-offering-mozarts-clarinet-concerto/) - Mozart's Clarinet Concerto in A major, K.622, was one of Josef Ratzinger's favorite pieces of music, or at least so I recall reading once, even if the cardinal and sometime pope was a pianist. The concerto, in three movements, was composed in 1791, a few weeks before the great composer's death, his last complete work (his
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/31/46086/) - When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude. (G.K. Chesterton, +1936)
- [On Chesterton and Children: Theology of Repetition](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/25/on-chesterton-and-children-theology-of-repetition/) - What am I doing here? Is this all there is to life? These questions occasionally surface as I sit at my desk, surrounded by beige walls, buzzing fluorescent lights, and the quiet hum of office routine. My cubicle isn’t bleak or terrible—it just feels… well, repetitive. Get up. Get dressed. Get the kids ready. Work.
- [Pope Benedict and Augustine](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/28/pope-benedict-and-augustine/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 9 January 2008 Saint Augustine of Hippo (1) Dear Brothers and Sisters, After the great Christmas festivities, I would like to return to the meditations on the Fathers of the Church and speak today of the greatest Father of the Latin Church, St Augustine. This man
- [Stockholm Socialism](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/24/stockholm-socialism/) - The 23rd of August is the anniversary of a 1973 bank robbery in Stockholm, Sweden. The robbery went south, descending into a hostage situation lasting two days. What was odd was that the hostages apparently began to sympathize with their captors - whose last names were Olsson and Olafsson - and refused to cooperate with
- [Saint Bartholomew's Day Massacre](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/24/saint-bartholomew-day-massacre/) - It is an unfortunate accident of history – insofar as we may speak of accidents, when all things are guided in their providential design by a good and provident God – that today’s feast is connected with one of the more scandalous events in the history of the Church, the massacre that goes by the
- [The Black Madonna: Our Lady of Częstochowa](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/26/the-black-madonna-our-lady-of-czestochowa/) - This feast of the 'Queen of Poland' is a national holiday in that great nation, with thousands of pilgrims flocking to her shrine at Jazna Gora, where the precious image of Our Lady of Częstochowa is kept and held most dear. There are untold icons and paintings of the Mother of God, just as there are
- [The Persevering Prayer of Monica](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/27/monicas-perseverance/) - Monica is the patron saint of mothers - not least, those who pray for the conversion of their children, an integral part of the maternal vocation, as many a mother will admit. Even for those children who stay in the Faith, 'conversion' is an ongoing process, never-ending, in that universal call to holiness to which
- [Augustine's Long Pilgrimage to Truth](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/28/augustine-the-great/) - A blessed feast of the great Saint Augustine (354-430), bishop and doctor of the Church, and one of the greatest theologians in her history. His voluminous works - his autobiography, sermons, commentaries, letters, - helped form the mind and soul of Christian civilization. Augustine himself was nearly not the Augustine we know. In the mystery
- [The Baptist Loses his Head](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/29/the-baptist-and-losing-ones-head/) - The celebration of the beheading of Saint John the Baptist - an expeditious entrance into heaven - is sort of a bookend to the summer; you may recall that June 24th, just after the end of spring, was the solemnity of his birth. Now, as summer draws to its close, we celebrate his death. A
- [Questions from Minneapolis](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/29/questions-from-minneapolis/) - The recent shooting of pupils and elderly parishioners during morning Mass at the Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis has raised many questions. Some of them are of quite recent origin, while others are getting quite old. According to reports, the shooting started just a few minutes into Mass, just as the responsorial Psalm was
- [Bare Knuckles Apologetics: Richard Dawkins Revisited](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/23/bare-knuckles-apologetics-richard-dawkins-revisited/) - The British evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins is possibly the most ubiquitous atheist on the planet. He has dedicated himself to countless books, lectures, and public debates in service to his cause. For his efforts, in 1996 the American Humanist Association, a notoriously atheist organization, voted him Humanist of the Year. Dawkins' most formidable effort to
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/29/46065/) - He must increase, but I must decrease. (John 3:30)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/25/46049/) - Dear son, the first thing I admonish thee is that thou set thy heart to love God, for without that nothing else is of any worth. (King Saint Louis IX, +1274, in a letter to his son)
- [Saint Joseph Calasanz, a Radical Reformer](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/25/saint-joseph-calasanz-a-radical-reformer/) - We would be remiss if we did not at least remark on this day on the great and sadly forgotten Saint Joseph Calasanz (+1648), a zealous priest, pastor, reformer and educator, who more or less set up what we now take for granted - universal basic education for all children, free of charge for the
- [Celebrating Our Baptismal Day](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/25/baptismal-day/) - On this day, I was baptized in Saint Patrick's church, in Dumbarton, Scotland, on the commemoration of King Saint Louis IX and Saint Joseph Calasanz, at least in the revised calendar. I recommend to Catholics to discover their baptismal day, and commemorate and celebrate it, for, in light of the 'sacramental life', that day is
- [Saint Louis IX: A Most Christian King](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/25/saint-louis-ix-a-most-christian-king/) - St. Louis IX (1214-1270) has been considered by many to be the greatest king of medieval Christendom. As the quintessential Catholic monarch, he ruled over what contemporary popes called a “most Christian kingdom,”[1] a sacramental harmony in which the Catholic faith was the ordering and motivating principle for all levels of society. Louis was renowned
- [Saint Bartholomew, aka Nathaniel, In Whom There Was No Guile](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/08/24/bartholomews-lack-of-guile/) - A blessed feast of Saint Bartholomew, to one and all! Like many of the Apostles, we don't know all that much about the life of today's saint. Our Tradition identifies Bartholomew with the 'Nathaniel' - which means 'God has given' - the enigmatic figure in the first chapter of Saint John's Gospel. When the Apostle
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Bartholomew](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/24/pope-benedict-on-bartholomew/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 4 October 2006 Bartholomew Dear Brothers and Sisters, In the series on the Apostles called by Jesus during his earthly life, today it is the Apostle Bartholomew who attracts our attention. In the ancient lists of the Twelve he always comes before Matthew, whereas the name of
- [The Enigmatic and Ecstatic Life of Rose of Lima](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/23/rose-of-the-impossible/) - Rose of Lima (+1617), whose birth name was Isabel, was called 'Rose' when a servant saw her face mystically transformed into the beautiful flower soon after she was born. Sure enough, Isabel-Rose would go on to become the first native-born canonized saint of the Americas, renowned even during her lifetime for her generosity and charity,
- [Saint Stephen, Hungary's First and Greatest King](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/16/saint-stephen-hungarys-first-and-greatest-king/) - Hungary is one of the few nations standing against the tsunami of insanity washing over the rest of Europe, threatening to deluge civilization as we know it. As may be expected in this inverted world. This may seem ironic, for Hungary for the first millennium of the Christian era was an almost entirely pagan nation -
- [Twentieth Sunday: Casting Fire Upon the Earth!](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/17/twentieth-sunday-casting-fire-upon-the-earth/) - I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and what stress I am under until it is completed (Lk. 12: 49-50). ⧾ By means of a familiar substance and image, fire, Our Lord speaks to us about His
- [Saint John Eudes: Giving Our All](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/19/saint-john-eudes-and-giving-our-all/) - A contemporary of his fellow Frenchman, Descartes, Saint John Eudes (+1680) was of quite a different mind and spirit. Rather that meditate on whether he existed or not - cogito, ergo sum - Saint John simply accepted the very fact of creation as a gift from the Creator. And far from reducing what we might
- [Saint Pius X and Restoring All Things in Christ](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/21/pius-the-pious/) - Instaruarae omnia in Christo (motto of Pope Saint Pius X) Saint Pius X (+1914) was the first 'peasant' to be elected Pope in centuries, the bishops of Rome all being chosen from the Italian nobility, trained for the task from youth in elite schools, with few exceptions. Born Guiseppe Melchiorre Sarto in 1835, he grew
- [From Judaism to Catholicism: A Conversion Story](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/21/from-judaism-to-catholicism-a-conversion-story/) - For as long as I can remember, I have believed in God. A strange statement, coming from someone who was born in Israel and raised in a secular Jewish family. My mother, a cradle Catholic, had undergone a Reformed Jewish conversion to marry my father, an atheistic Jew. I was born in Israel in 2004.
- [Salve, Regina! - Mary's Queenship Over Heaven and Earth](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/22/maria-regina/) - A blessed memorial of the Queenship of Mary, - as queen of heaven and earth, of angels and men. Although the Church has always celebrated the glories of the Mother of God, this feast was formally instituted by Pope Pius XII on October 11, 1954, in his encyclical Ad Coeli Reginam, four years after his
- [Ad Caeli Reginam: Encyclical of Pope Pius XII Proclaiming the Queenship of Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/22/ad-caeli-reginam-encyclical-of-pope-pius-xii-proclaiming-the-queenship-of-mary/) - (As mentioned in an accompanying post, the Queenship of Mary used to fall on the last day of May (now the feast of the Visitation), and was moved to its current location on the Octave of the Assumption in the 1969 revision of the liturgical calendar. Here are the words of Pope Pius XII proclaiming
- [Pope Calls for a Day of Prayer and Fasting on August 22 ,the Queenship of Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/21/pope-calls-for-a-day-of-prayer-and-fasting-on-august-22-the-queenship-of-mary/) - In his General Audience yesterday, Pope Leo called for Catholics to pray and fast tomorrow, Friday, on the Queenship of Mary, for the intentions of peace. Here are his words: Next Friday, 22 August, we will celebrate the memorial of Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mary is the Mother of believers here on earth,
- [The Theologian versus the Rationalist: Bernard and Abelard](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/20/two-theological-models-in-comparison-bernard-and-abelard/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 4 November 2009 Two Theological Models in Comparison: Bernard and Abelard Dear Brothers and Sisters, In my last Catechesis I presented the main features of 12th-century monastic theology and scholastic theology which, in a certain sense, we might call respectively "theology of the heart" and "theology of reason". Among
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/20/45986/) - There are those who seek knowledge for the sake of knowledge; that is curiosity. There are those who seek knowledge to be known by others; that is vanity. There are those who seek knowledge in order to serve; that is Love. (Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, +1153)
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, the Mellifluous Doctor](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/20/pope-benedict-on-abbot-bernard/) - GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 21 October 2009 Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today I would like to talk about St Bernard of Clairvaux, called "the last of the Fathers" of the Church because once again in the 12th century he renewed and brought to the fore the important theology of
- [An Original Musical By Christine Helferty, August 22-24th](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/19/an-original-musical-by-christine-helferty-august-22-24th/) - For those in the Peterborough area, or even further afield, mark your calendars for a new and original musical, Past the Limit, a Story of Life, Loss and Hope. Performances are at the Peterborough Theatre Guild, August 22nd, 23rd and 24th.
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/19/20867-2/) - Let us therefore give ourselves to God with a great desire to begin to live thus, and beg Him to destroy in us the life of the world of sin, and to establish His life within us. (Saint John Eudes, +1680)
- [Pope Benedict, Saint John Eudes and the Formation of Priests](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/19/pope-benedict-saint-john-eudes-and-the-formation-of-priests/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Wednesday, 19 August 2009 (Video) Saint John Eudes and the formation of the diocesan clergy Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today is the liturgical Memorial of St John Eudes, a tireless apostle of the devotion to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary who lived in France in the 17th century that
- [Genocide in Palestine? - Another Dark Chapter in Mankind's History](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/15/genocide-in-palestine-another-dark-chapter-in-mankinds-history/) - (Opinions expressed on this page are those of the author, and are not necessarily shared by Catholic Insight). As the Germans did it to the Jews and Poles of Europe, as the Ukrainians to the Poles of Eastern Poland, so now we see another dark chapter being written in mankind’s history - the Israeli genocide
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/17/45969/) - If the highest aim of a captain were to preserve his ship, he would keep it in port forever. (Saint Thomas Aquinas, +1274)
- [The Catholic ‘voice’ can help Canadians overcome the housing crisis](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/01/the-catholic-voice-can-help-canadians-overcome-the-housing-crisis/) - My wife and our friends recently read and discussed sections of Pope Leo XIII’s timeless encyclical, Rerum Novarum. Pope Leo XIV's name inspired us to reflect on the Leonine Catholic intellectual tradition. We took interest in Leo XIII’s assertion that private property is the “most fundamental principle…to alleviate the condition of the masses.” This ‘condition’
- [Eighty Years Since Hiroshima](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/06/hiroshimas-hellfire/) - As well as being the feast of the Transfiguration, and the anniversary of the death of Pope Paul VI, this day also has the sombre 80th anniversary of the first of two uses - and so far only, praise God - of nuclear weaponry in war: On August 6th, 1945, 'the bomb', as it was
- [Antony Flew and the Deist Dilemma](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/15/antony-flew-and-the-deist-dilemma/) - Antony Flew (1923 - 2010) was a British philosopher and atheist who is much remembered for his discovery of a principle called the “No True Scotsman Fallacy.” He used to bandy the fallacy about as if it should be the flag and anthem of all true atheists. Simply stated, the No True Scotsman fallacy consists
- [Dispositions for Receiving Holy Communion](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/14/dispositions-for-receiving-holy-communion/) - Sermon by Rev. Msgr. Vincent Nicholas Foy (August 14, 1915 – March 13, 2017) preached at St. Michael’s Cathedral, Toronto, ON, on Sunday, November 23, 1958. This vigil of the Assumption would have been Monsignor Foy’s 110th birthday, which he almost reached. Read and partake of the fine mind and soul of this good priest, whom
- [Our Lady’s Assumption](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/15/our-ladys-assumption/) - A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun,and the moon beneath her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars (Entrance Antiphon). Today’s glorious Feast of Our Lady’s Assumption celebrates the dogma of the faith solemnly defined by the Venerable Pope Pius XII during the Holy Year of 1950.
- [Jane Frances de Chantal and her Visitation](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/12/de-chantals-visitation/) - Jane Frances Fremiot (+1641) was a beautiful, refined young woman from Burgundy, betrothed to the handsome Baron de Chantal at 21 years old - a veritable Austen-esque marriage of true minds, in a French mode; and a happy union it was, until the Baron was killed by an harquebus in a tragic hunting accident, leaving
- [Assumption and the Resurrection](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/14/assumption-and-the-resurrection/) - A blessed and glorious solemnity of the Assumption to one and all! A day commemorating the taking up of the Blessed Virgin Mary, body and soul, into heaven at the end of her earthly journey. As Pius XII declared in his 1950 Apostolic Constitution Munificentissimus Deus, in which this perennial truth was solemnly defined: by
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/14/41318-2/) - Modern times are dominated by Satan and will be more so in the future. The conflict with hell cannot be engaged by men, even the most clever. The Immaculata alone has from God the promise of victory over Satan. However, assumed into Heaven, the Mother of God now requires our cooperation. She seeks souls who
- [Pope John Paul II at Auschwitz: Lessons of Kolbe](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/14/john-paul-ii-at-auschwitz-lessons-of-kolbe/) - APOSTOLIC PILGRIMAGE TO POLAND HOLY MASS AT THE CONCENTRATION CAMP HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS JOHN PAUL II Auschwitz-Bierkenau, 7 June 1979 1. "This is the victory that overcomes the world, our faith" (1 Jn 5:4). These words from the Letter of Saint John come to my mind and enter my heart as I find
- [Saints Edith Stein and Maximilian Kolbe: Witnesses to Hope](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/14/saints-edith-stein-and-maximilian-kolbe/) - The philosopher and Carmelite Edith Stein (Saint Teresa Benedicta a Cruce was her name in religion), and the Franciscan priest Maximilian Kolbe were put both put to death at the death camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau, one year apart, in 1941 and 1942, both in the Marian month of August, on the 9th and 14th, respectively. They
- [Pope Benedict on Hippolytus and Martyrdom](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/13/pope-benedict-on-martyrdom/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Papal Summer Residence, Castel Gandolfo Wednesday, 11 August 2010 The significance of martyrdom Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today in the Liturgy we commemorate St Clare of Assisi, Foundress of the Poor Clares, a luminous figure of whom I shall speak in one of the forthcoming Catecheses. But this week as I
- [Phil Lynott in retrospect & the extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy: from tragedy to Christian hope](https://catholicinsight.com/2016/01/07/phil-lynott-in-retrospect-the-extraordinary-jubilee-of-mercy-from-tragedy-to-christian-hope/) - Pope Francis has declared that from December 8th, 2015 until November 20th, 2016 will be the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy. In the pope’s letter to Archbishop Rino Fisichella he states that he wishes “that the Jubilee be a living experience of the closeness of the Father, whose tenderness is almost tangible, so that the faith
- [Theological Notions Simplified for Children](https://catholicinsight.com/2016/01/12/theological-notions-simplified-for-children/) - William Lane Craig, a world renowned Christian philosopher, theologian and apologist has written many works at the scholarly level. He has tackled deep issues within the philosophy of religion such as arguments for the existence of God, God’s relationship to time, the compatibility of divine foreknowledge with human free will and, most recently, the problem
- [Not Peace but a Sword: The Great Chasm Between Christianity and Islam](https://catholicinsight.com/2016/03/18/not-peace-but-a-sword-the-great-chasm-between-christianity-and-islam/) - Robert Spencer, Not Peace but a Sword: The Great Chasm Between Christianity and Islam. San Diego: Catholic Answers, 2013, p.251. By Scott Ventureyra Robert Spencer is perhaps the most vocal Catholic critic of Islam and violent jihadism. He has authored various works critical of both Islam and the prophet Muhammad. He is also the founder
- [Demolishing Secular Pretensions: Assisted Suicide, the Media and Relativism](https://catholicinsight.com/2016/03/26/demolishing-secular-pretensions-assisted-suicide-the-media-and-relativism/) - The other day, I sent a friend a couple of articles regarding Ontario’s first legal assisted suicide including John Paul Meenan’s “The Totalitarian Imposition of Euthanasia in Canada.” My friend, although a lapsed Christian is a well-meaning individual. He longs for self-transcendence but, as many people do, searches for it through false avenues. It consistently
- [Finding Unity Despite Disunity: God, Love and the Enduring Message of Terry Fox](https://catholicinsight.com/2016/10/27/finding-unity-despite-disunity-god-love-and-the-enduring-message-of-terry-fox/) - Much of the Western world is split by issues pertaining to politics, economics, race, gender, sexual orientation and religion. No doubt, these issues need to be adequately assessed and dealt within a morally prudent and logical manner. This is especially true in light of the upcoming presidential election between Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton.
- [A Reflection for Christmas: God, Truth and Love](https://catholicinsight.com/2016/12/20/a-reflection-for-christmas-god-truth-and-love/) - As Christmas rolls around this year, try not to be swept up with the hoopla of consumerism and economic materialism. In our day and age, with the technology of smart phones, hi-speed internet, wi-fi access, iPads, new gaming systems, etc., it is easier than ever to get distracted from God, truth, and love. The significance
- [Fell On A Black Day: A Reflection on Chris Cornell’s Suicide](https://catholicinsight.com/2017/05/22/fell-on-a-black-day-a-reflection-on-chris-cornells-suici/) - Chris Cornell, the frontman of the Seattle grunge rock bands Soundgarden and Audioslave was declared dead on May 18. According to later developments throughout May 18th, further information revealed that the cause of death was suicide by hanging. His suicide was not only shocking to his fans but even his wife, Vicky, who allegedly stated
- [Lightning Crashes LiVE](https://catholicinsight.com/2017/08/22/lightning-crashes-live/) - It seems that our culture in its ever increasing narrative against anything biblical and supernatural must be something that should be doubted, if not scoffed at. Take the recent discovery that Lebanese ancestry share 90% or more of their genetics with the Canaanites, who biblically, were considered to be arch-enemies of the Israelites. The
- [The Governor General's Hubris and Anti-Intellectualism](https://catholicinsight.com/2017/11/08/the-governor-generals-hubris-and-anti-intellectualism/) - On November 1, Governor General (GG) Julie Payette was a keynote speaker at the Canadian Science Policy Conference in Ottawa. She touched upon a variety of issues including climate change, horoscopes, the origin of life, alternative medicine and divine “intervention.” In this piece I would like to focus on her comments regarding religion and
- [An Approach to the Santa Legend](https://catholicinsight.com/2017/12/24/approach-santa-legend/) - (One might have different views on the Santa legend, and whether or not to present (no pun intended) this story to children, as literal truth, as a myth, as an archetype of at least some of what 'Christmas' means. What follows is one take. One may also ponder this article defending the Santa story, linked
- [A Dialogue on Life’s Meaning: An Assessment](https://catholicinsight.com/2018/02/08/dialogue-lifes-meaning-assessment/) - A graduate school federated with the University of Toronto, hosted an event revolving around three distinct perspectives centered on the following question: “Is there meaning to life?” The three perspectives that were offered included; philosopher and theologian, William Lane Craig’s tripartite Christian position, which focused on purpose, value and significance as conditions for a meaningful
- [Cobra Kai: A Nostalgic Adventure](https://catholicinsight.com/2018/06/26/cobra-kai-a-nostalgic-adventure/) - Cobra Kai is the latest addition to the epic Karate Kid saga. It takes place 34 years (!!) after the 1984 All Valley Karate Tournament of the original Karate Kid movie. The series can be found on YouTube Red. The first two episodes are free and episodes 3 to 10 are $2.99 USD each –
- [Women's Finals and the Perils of Groupthink](https://catholicinsight.com/2018/09/25/womens-finals-and-the-perils-of-groupthink/) - By now, avid sports fans throughout the Western world and anyone who follows the news regularly, will have heard of Serena Williams’s blow-up at this year’s US Open finals. Williams was competing against the seventh ranked player in the world, twenty-year old Naomi Osaka. Osaka in their only other meeting (earlier this year), had beaten
- [A Review of Creed II: Reflections on the Rocky Saga & the Intrinsic Value of the Human Person](https://catholicinsight.com/2018/12/19/creed-ii-reflections-on-the-rocky-saga-the-intrinsic-value-of-the-human-person/) - The eighth “chapter” of the Rocky series, Creed II, was released on November 21. Continuing in the tradition of the previous seven chapters of the Rocky Saga, Creed II exploits the underdog archetype. The protagonist, Adonis Creed (Michael B. Jordan), although recently crowned heavyweight boxing champion of the world, is not prepared to beat a
- [The Sanctity of Life in Light of the Incarnation](https://catholicinsight.com/2018/12/28/the-sanctity-of-life-in-light-of-the-incarnation/) - As a New Year approaches, may we still keep our sights on the true meaning and significance of Christmas, that is, the Incarnation. May we also not get lost in the perils of consumerism and economic materialism. This is something I emphasized a couple of years ago in a Christmas piece for Catholic Insight. Furthermore,
- [The Lawyer Who Put the Logic of Darwinism on Trial: Phillip E. Johnson’s Gift to Posterity](https://catholicinsight.com/2019/11/23/the-lawyer-who-put-the-logic-of-darwinism-on-trial-phillip-e-johnsons-gift-to-posterity/) - On the first of November, at the age of 79, Phillip E. Johnson died at his home in California. Johnson was a gifted author who produced many fruits. By his late 20s he was a professor of law at the University of California, Berkley. He studied at both Harvard and the University of Chicago. In
- [The Light of the Incarnation in a Dark World](https://catholicinsight.com/2019/12/24/the-light-of-the-incarnation-in-a-dark-world/) - As Christmas approaches and this decade ends, it would be worth our while to consider the current situation we find the world in. The existing social and political landscape in the West reminds me of Charles Dickens’s great novel, A Tale of Two Cities, where he presents a dichotomous view of things: It was the
- [A Reflection on Mario Augusto Bunge's Life and Work](https://catholicinsight.com/2020/03/20/a-reflection-mario-augsto-bunges-life-and-work/) - On February 24, at 100 years of age, physicist and philosopher, Mario Augusto Bunge passed onto the next life. Bunge completed a PhD in physico-mathematical sciences from Universidad Nacional de La Plata in 1952 (the same university that my father completed his medical degree at in 1970). He had sixteen honorary doctorates and four honorary
- [A Feminine, or Feminist, Response to Covid?](https://catholicinsight.com/2020/04/28/a-feminine-or-feminist-response-to-covid/) - On April 13, Forbes magazine published a piece titled: “What Do Countries With The Best Coronavirus Responses Have In Common? Women Leaders” which was written by Avivah Wittenberg-Cox. Avivah is a feminist who in recent years has made it her life’s mission to promote gender equality or what can be referred to as equality of
- [No Stone Left Unturned: Thoughts on Ravi Zacharias’s Mission](https://catholicinsight.com/2020/06/23/no-stone-left-unturned-thoughts-on-ravi-zachariass-mission/) - On May 19, Ravi Zacharias died at his home in Atlanta from a rare cancer known as sarcoma which was found as a malignant tumor on his sacrum. At his memorial, American Vice President, Mike Pence and baseballer, Tim Tebow both spoke of him with unqualified praise. In his speech, Pence repeated a statement issued
- [Preferential Treatment](https://catholicinsight.com/2021/08/10/some-are-more-equal-than-others/) - On July 27, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Kieran Moore, provided an update on the government's response to the present COVID19 pandemic. In the presentation, he indicates that there will be different regulations for fully vaccinated staff and students when classes resume this fall. Earlier this month, Premier Doug Ford promised Ontarians that
- [Time for Accountability, not Pandemic Amnesty](https://catholicinsight.com/2022/11/14/time-for-accountability-not-pandemic-amnesty/) - (Here is a reflection from contributor Scott Ventureyra on the accountability/amnesty debate over draconian Covid protocols, not least the vaxx mandates and lockdowns. This intrigues me, for I wonder who would ever hold the powers-that-be to account? Most of the sources of authority are still on their side, from courts, to judges, to police, military
- [A Reflection on the Exorcist: Believer](https://catholicinsight.com/2023/10/24/a-reflection-on-the-exorcist-the-believer/) - The latest exorcist movie, Exorcist: The Believer (henceforward “The Believer”), hit theaters on Friday, October 6, 2023, close to the 50th anniversary of the classic film The Exorcist, which was directed by William Friedkin, written by William Blatty, and released on December 26, 1973. The Believer has a strong cast that includes actors from the
- [The Phenomenon of Javier Milei in Context](https://catholicinsight.com/2023/12/05/the-phenomenon-of-javier-milei-in-context/) - Javier Milei is the president elect of Argentina, and if all goes according to plan, on December 10, 2023, he will be the fiftieth president of Argentina. The election of Milei presents many firsts for an Argentinian president. He’s the first Argentine president to be an economist and a professor of economics. Interestingly, he has
- [Truth Under Assault](https://catholicinsight.com/2023/12/22/truth-under-assault/) - The Denial of Truth We live in an era where the denial of not only the ability to discern what is true from what is false runs rampant, but also the rejection of objective truth itself. Interestingly, everyone speaks about truth, whether it is politicians, doctors, journalists, celebrities, athletes, academics, or the common person, but
- [In Memory of Michael Ruse: Temperate Atheist but Determined Bridge-Builder](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/11/14/in-memory-of-michael-ruse-temperate-atheist-but-determined-bridge-builder/) - Philosopher Michael Ruse departed this world on November 1, 2024, at the age of 84. And although I had never met Michael, it is with sadness that I reflect on his passing. I had briefly corresponded with him a few years ago. I knew by listening to him in debates, interviews, and lectures over the
- [On the Origins of Christmas](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/12/24/on-the-origins-of-christmas/) - There is no shortage of nonsensical ideas circulating throughout both the web on social media and in the mainstream media, much of which does not have any logical basis, or credible historical or scientific evidence. The Contextual Backdrop In the case of social media, there has been the resurgence of what is known as “flat
- [Trudeau Out, Carney In: The Fight for Canada’s Soul](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/03/24/trudeau-out-carney-in-the-fight-for-canadas-soul/) - The resignation of Justin Trudeau from political leadership should have marked a turning point for Canada. For years, Trudeau led this country down a road of moral relativism, economic mismanagement, and escalating hostility toward the Church. But what has followed is not a correction. It is an acceleration. Mark Carney—Canada’s new, unelected Prime Minister—is not
- [Subsidiarity Subverted: Mark Carney’s Politics of Power Outside the Moral Law](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/04/27/subsidiarity-subverted-mark-carneys-politics-of-power-without-the-moral-law/) - As Canadians approach the snap federal election on April 28, they must confront a reality more disquieting than any partisan rivalry: the installation of Mark Carneyas prime minister, not through democratic mandate, but through elite consensus. Unelected, unaccountable, and parachuted into power through backroom arrangements, Carney represents a paradigmatic shift, not just in Canadian politics,
- [Que Sera, Sera Serfdom: Mark Carney and Collapse by Design](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/05/15/que-sera-sera-serfdom-mark-carney-and-collapse-by-design/) - (Mark Carney's choice of cabinet members is indicative - what is old is new again - not least reinstating radical environmental activist Stephen Guilbeault. Here, Scott Ventureyra, on the anniversary of Pope Leo XIII's Rerum Novarum, paints a grim picture for Canada's future, but with a glimmer of hope). Ed. Canada is no longer acting
- [On Carney’s Capitulation](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/05/20/on-carneys-capitulation/) - (To clarify, Catholic Insight is not a 'political' magazine, even if I have some hesitation in making too hermetically-sealed categories. There is a right, and a duty, to critique our political leaders, especially when their policies go contrary to right reason, the moral law and the Church's revealed truth. Furthermore, we have our own category
- [The Longing Beneath the Roles: Kilmer, the Catechism, and the Search for God](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/14/the-longing-beneath-the-roles-kilmer-the-catechism-and-the-search-for-god/) - The cinematic roles of Val Kilmer - who died April 1st, 2025 at the age of 65 after a long cinematic career - did far more than exhibit an actor’s versatility; they disclosed a profound spiritual restlessness, a yearning for permanence amid the ephemeral illusions of fame. Regardless of the movie, the characters he portrayed
- [The God Peterson Evades](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/17/the-god-peterson-evades/) - Jordan Peterson’s appearance on Jubilee’s viral YouTube episode, originally titled “1 Christian vs. 20 Atheists” and later changed to “Jordan Peterson vs. 20 Atheists,” laid bare the enduring ambiguity at the heart of his symbolic engagement with Christianity. In my recent article for Crisis Magazine, “He Who Wrestles with God in Public: Jordan Peterson Versus
- [Remembering Fr. Joseph Escribano (May 31, 1933–June 25, 2023)](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/26/remembering-fr-joseph-escribano-may-31-1933-june-25-2023/) - I first met Father Joseph Escribano (affectionately known as simply “Fr. Joe”) in 2014. From that moment forward, he played an important role in my spiritual life. He always made himself available for confession and always provided sound and comforting advice without compromising the truth. He supported my work by offering reflections on important issues
- [Not All Prophets Wear Tin Foil: A Critical Review of QAnon, Chaos, and the Cross](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/10/not-all-prophets-wear-tin-foil-a-critical-review-of-qanon-chaos-and-the-cross/) - In an age of spiritual confusion, eroding trust, and institutional abdication, QAnon, Chaos, and the Cross, edited by Michael W. Austin and Gregory L. Bock, is a timely, if uneven, intervention. This volume gathers predominantly evangelical Christian scholars to examine the entanglement of conspiracy theories, especially, those linked to QAnon, with segments of the American
- [Wolfgang Smith’s Legacy: A Metaphysician for Our Times](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/19/wolfgang-smiths-legacy-a-metaphysician-for-our-times/) - On July 19, 2024, the world lost Wolfgang Smith, one of the most underappreciated yet profoundly important thinkers of our time. A rare polymath, Smith united the rigours of science with the depths of metaphysical and theological wisdom. In an age consumed by materialist reductionism and technological utopianism, he stood out as a thinker who
- [Hulk Hogan and the Quest for True Immortality](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/29/hulk-hogan-and-the-quest-for-true-immortality/) - July 2025 has become one of the most sobering and grief-laden months for pop culture in recent memory. The cultural imagination has lost eleven influential figures: wrestling icon Hulk Hogan (71) died of cardiac arrest; Cosby Show actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner (54) tragically drowned while on vacation; tough-guy actor Michael Madsen (67) passed from heart failure;
- [Marxism Is the Opium of the Lost—Truth and Redemption Are Found Only in Christ](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/07/marxism-is-the-opium-of-the-lost-truth-and-redemption-are-in-christ/) - Recently, as I rarely do these days, I engaged in a social media exchange in response to a post by a political commentator and intellectual who goes by the name of Dorothy Lennon. That exchange inspired this essay. Lennon, who, more often than not, provides pointed and thoughtful critiques of oligarchic corruption, endless global wars,
- [Pontian, Hippolytus, Pope and Anti-Pope, Saints Together](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/13/hippolytus-pontian-pope-and-antipope/) - An anti-Pope is someone who thinks he's the Pope - or at least who claims to be the Pope - when in reality he is not. And by 'reality', we mean Pope by the will of God, as manifested in the laws of the Church. These laws include such things as the rules for conclaves,
- [A Few Words on Infallibility](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/07/18/a-few-words-on-infallibility/) - On this July 18th, 1870, the First Vatican Council, at the impetus of Pope Pius IX, proclaimed the dogma of papal infallibility. Some were against defining the doctrine – including Cardinal Newman. Not that they were against this truth itself, but that defining it was inopportune, and perhaps even impossible. It seems the Holy Spirit
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/12/33858-2/) - In prayer, more is accomplished by listening than by talking. (Saint Jane Frances de Chantal, +1641)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/11/45887/) - Our labor here is brief, but the reward is eternal. Do not be disturbed by the clamor of the world, which passes like a shadow. Do not let false delights of a deceptive world deceive you. (Saint Clare of Assisi, +1253)
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Clare of Assisi](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/11/saint-clare-of-assisi/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Hall Wednesday, 15 September 2010 [Video] Saint Clare of Assisi Dear Brothers and Sisters, One of the best loved Saints is without a doubt St Clare of Assisi who lived in the 13th century and was a contemporary of St Francis. Her testimony shows us how indebted the Church
- [The Divine Comedy of Saint Lawrence](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/10/the-laughter-of-lawrence/) - Today's Saint Lawrence (+258) lives on in the legend of his own divine comedy, a Spaniard from Valencia, chosen in the very bloom of his early maturity by the intelligent and saintly Pope Sixtus II to be Archdeacon of Rome, in charge of distributing the wealth of the Church. It is said that Lawrence’s parents
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Lawrence](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/10/pope-benedicts-pastoral-visit-to-saint-lawrences-basilica/) - PASTORAL VISIT TO THE BASILICA OF SAINT LAWRENCE OUTSIDE THE WALLS ON THE OCCASION OF THE 1750th ANNIVERSARY OF THE MARTYRDOM OF THE HOLY DEACON HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI First Sunday of Advent, 30 November 2008 Dear brothers and sisters, the thought of Christ's presence and his return at the end of time
- [Nineteenth Sunday: Consolation and Exhortation](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/10/nineteenth-sunday-consolation-and-exhortation/) - ‘Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom’ (Lk. 12:32). ⧾ These are perhaps among the most consoling words recorded in Sacred Scripture. And in every age, including ours, they are addressed to a little flock. What is this little flock, if not those who have both
- [Spes Aedificandi: Saint Edith Stein, Martyr and Co-Patroness of Europe](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/09/spes-aedificandi-co-patronesses-of-europe/) - On this August 9th, we commemorate Saint Edith Stein, whose name in religion was Teresa Benedicta of the Cross. Just over a quarter of a century ago, on the eve of the new millennium, Pope Saint John Paul II, on October 1st, 1999, the feast of Saint Therese of Lisieux, proclaimed Saints Bridget of Sweden,
- [Dr. Frances Kelsey and Thalidomide](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/07/dr-frances-kelsey-and-thalidomide/) - On this August 7th, back in 1962, Frances Oldham Kelsey, a Canadian-American physician/pharmacologist (who hailed from bucolic and beautiful Cobble Hill, on Vancouver Island, in which area I have spent some very pleasant time amongst friends) was awarded the President’s Award for Distinguished Civilian Service by John F. Kennedy. For what, you ask? Working for
- [Saint Dominic's Battle for Truth](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/08/saint-dominics-battle-for-truth/) - Saint Dominic (+1221) was one of those souls destined from birth to do great things - as, we may suppose, all saints are in some way. But all the contemporary accounts attest to his burning desire for God from the earliest age: His mother, Jane of Aza (eventually canonized by Pope Leo XII in 1828)
- [The Poison Pen of Christopher Hitchens](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/08/the-poison-pen-of-christopher-hitchens/) - Someone will protest: “Why are you writing a piece on the atheist Christopher Hitchens? He's dead, and isn't he yesterday's news?” But this is not altogether true. Hitchens is, I think, still very much alive in the hearts and minds of many atheists, and the proof of this is in how often you might hear,
- [Pope Saint John Paul II and the Transfiguration](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/06/pope-saint-john-paul-ii-and-the-transfiguration/) - 21st ANNIVERSARY OF THE DEATH OF PAUL VIHOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS JOHN PAUL IIFeast of the Transfiguration of the Lord Friday, 6 August 1999 Today, the Eucharist which we are preparing to celebrate takes us in spirit to Mount Tabor together with the Apostles Peter, James and John, to admire in rapture the
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Dominic](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/08/pope-benedict-and-saint-dominic/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 3 February 2010 Saint Dominic Guzmán Dear Brothers and Sisters, Last week I presented the luminous figure of Francis of Assisi; today I want to talk about another Saint of the same period who made a fundamental contribution to the renewal of the Church of
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/08/45820/) - A man who governs his passions is master of his world. We must either command them or be enslaved by them. It is better to be a hammer than an anvil. (Saint Dominic, +1221)
- [Tibbets' 'Distinguished Service' in Death](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/07/distinguished-service-in-death/) - Eighty year ago, Paul Tibbets flew his B-52 bomber, the 'Enola Gay' - named after his own mother - and dropped the nuclear bomb over Hiroshima. Under his guidance, the 'superfortress' took off in the middle of the night from the American air force base in Tinian, taking six hours to reach Japan. At 8:15
- [Lessons From Thalidomide](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/08/08/lessons-from-thalidomide/) - (Some thoughts from a few years ago, in the midst of the Covidian panic, with a lesson from an heroic Canadian physiologist which bears repeating, for history repeats itself, and we must learn therefrom). On this August 7th, back in 1962, Frances Oldham Kelsey, a Canadian-American physician/pharmacologist (who hailed from bucolic and beautiful Cobble Hill,
- [Saint Cajetan, Founder of the Theatines](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/07/saint-cajetan-founder-of-the-theatines/) - On this day, along with Pope Sixtus and his companion martyrs, we honour Saint Gaetano Cajetan (1480-1547), not to be confused with the 'other' Cajetan, whose name was Thomas, a famed commentator on Saint Thomas Aquinas (who lived around the same time). Rather, this Cajetan - Gaetano, in Italian - was a true reformer in
- [Pope Sixtus and Companions, Martyrs To the End](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/07/the-heads-of-sixtus-and-companions/) - Historians count ten traditional persecutions of Christians in the early Church – from the first, under Nero, beginning in 63 A.D. through a series of anti-Christian emperors of various stripes and intensities, culminating in the final and most brutal of them all under Diocletian, all of which ended with the Edict of Milan in 313
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/06/45775/) - It is good for us to be here – here where all things shine with divine radiance, where there is joy and gladness and exultation; where there is nothing in our hearts but peace, serenity and stillness; where God is seen. (Saint Anastasius of Sinai, +ca. 700)
- [Transfigured Unto Divine Glory](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/06/transfiguration-unto-divine-glory/) - A blessed and grace-filled feast of the Transfiguration to all our readers, when Christ allowed the Apostles - Peter, James and John - to 'see His glory', His true nature as the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. We should recall that Christ was not a human person, but a divine one, uniting Himself to
- [Dedication of Santa Maria Maggiore and Our Lady of the Snows](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/05/santa-maria-maggiore/) - On August 5th, we celebrate the dedication of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, the highest church in the hierarchy of churches dedicated to Our Lady in all of Christendom. The glorious edifice sits atop the Esquiline Hill, beside the palace of Victor Emmanuel II, just outside the Vatican City State, itself established on February
- [Our Lady Seat of Wisdom's Annual Wojtyla Conference: The Seven Liberal Arts](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/05/our-lady-seat-of-wisdoms-annual-wojtyla-conference-the-seven-liberal-arts/) - Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College is hosting its annual Wojtyla Summer Conference from the 7th- 10th of August. The theme this year is the Seven Liberal Arts: Ordering the Soul. The weekend has talks, dialogue and good conversation, along with music, fine food and enjoying the beautiful outdoors of the Madawaska Valley, including Lake
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/05/45764/) - Mary, Mother of God, we salute you. Precious vessel, worthy of the whole world’s reverence, you are an ever-shining light, the crown of virginity, the symbol of orthodoxy, an indestructible temple, the place that held him whom no place can contain, mother and virgin. (Saint Cyril of Alexandria, +444)
- [Blessed Frederick Jansoone: The Guardian of Notre Dame du Cap](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/05/the-guardian-of-notre-dame-du-cap/) - Blessed Frédéric Janssoone, O.F.M. (1838 - 1916) hailed from France, from the town of Ghyvelde, in the northwest most corner, where the language was Flemish, and not French. After a difficult and impoverished, but holy and pious, upbringing, he joined the Friars Minor, spending his years of priestly ministry as custos of the sacred sites
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/04/45750/) - If we really understood the priest on earth, we would die not of fright but of love.... the Priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus. (Saint Jean Marie Vianney, +1859, cf. CCC, #1589)
- [Saint Jean Vianney, a Priest for Priests](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/04/saint-jean-vianney-a-model-priest/) - On this day, August 4th, in 1859 - the same year that Darwin published his specious Origin of Species, and one year after Marx's Communist Manifesto, both of which, sadly, shook the faith of many - the world witnessed the quiet passing into eternity of a most remarkable man, a simple country priest who lived
- [Pope Benedict and the Curé d'Ars](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/04/pope-benedict-and-the-cure-dars/) - (The holiness of the Church - and hence the salvation of the world - depends much upon the holiness of her priests. Hence, these words from Pope Benedict XVI from August 5th, 2009, on the Curé d'Ars ring as true and au courant today, and will unto the end of time). Editor. BENEDICT XVI GENERAL
- [Book Review: Coached by the Curé, Lessons in Shepherding with St. John Vianney](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/04/book-review-coached-by-the-cure-lessons-in-shepherding-with-st-john-vianney/) - (Here is a very fitting and a propos review and meditation on this Solemnity of the Sacred Heart from Father Marco Testa on Saint Jean Vianney, the Curé d'Ars, the patron saint of priests. As the good Curé put it, if we really understood the priest on earth, we would die, not of fright, but
- [Eighteenth Sunday and Setting Our Sights On What is Above](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/03/eighteenth-sunday-and-setting-our-sights-on-what-is-above/) - Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God (Col 3: 2-3). The scripture lessons of the Mass make it very clear that we were created and redeemed by God for supernatural life in this world
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/02/45734/) - Hear Mass daily; it will prosper the whole day. All your duties will be performed the better for it, and your soul will be stronger to bear its daily cross. The Mass is the most holy act of religion; you can do nothing that can give greater glory to God or be more profitable for
- [The Plenary Indulgence of the Portiuncula, or, Our Lady of the Angels](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/02/the-plenary-indulgence-of-the-portiuncula-or-our-lady-of-the-angels/) - On Monday 2 August the universal Church celebrates what is called The Pardon of Assisi. This great feast, which ranks as a solemnity within the Franciscan festivities, is another great sign of the immense good the Lord himself performs to his Church and the world through the Franciscan movement. But what the Pardon of Assisi is
- [Saints Eusebius of Vercelli and Peter Julian Eymard](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/02/eusebius-and-eymard/) - The Church commemorates two pastors today, separated by a millennium and a half: The fourth-century Eusebius of Vercelli (+371), the first bishop we know of in northern Italy, who has gone down in history as one of the great foes of the insidious heresy of Arianism, which taught that Christ was not truly God. Eusebius
- [The (Non) Children of Men and the Indissoluble Nexus](https://catholicinsight.com/2021/01/05/the-non-children-of-men-and-the-indissoluble-nexus/) - It was somewhat disconcerting to discover that the 1992 novel The Children of Men by mystery writer P.D. James was set in January of 2021, which seemed a long time in the future even a few years ago. The opening paragraph begins on New Year's Day of that year, which, in the Catholic liturgy, is
- [Martha, Mary and Lazarus: What Makes a Household?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/29/marriage-martha-and-mary/) - This memorial of Saint Martha, in accord with a decree from the Congregation of Divine Worship, now also includes her brother Lazarus, the one raised from the dead, and her sister Mary, leaving aside the controversy over whether she is the same 'Mary' as the Magdalene we celebrated a week ago, as some small-t traditions
- [Saint Peter Chrysologous, Ravenna's Doctor](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/30/peter-of-the-golden-words/) - Saint Peter Chrysologous (+450) was, as the traditional account has it, chosen bishop of Ravenna in 433 after the then-reigning pontiff, Pope, Sixtus III, had a vision of Saint Peter the Apostle and Saint Apollinaris (the latter a former bishop of Ravenna) who pointed out a young man as the next episcopus. Soon afterwards, a
- [Ignatius and the Companions of Jesus](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/31/ignatius-and-his-merry-band-of-brothers/) - When we read the life of Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556) he at first glance seems to belong more to the early days of the desert Fathers, or, perhaps, to the mediaeval 'fools for Christ', who gave up all to follow Him – begging for alms, sleeping outside, pilgrimaging from place to place. Saint Ignatius
- [The (Im)migration Question](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/31/the-immigration-question/) - The contrast between the disintegrating situation in Britain and Pope Leo IV’s sunny words on migration is a prompt for this brief reflection. We take to heart the Holy Father's exhortation to welcome and show charity. However, with a possible civil war imminent in England and Ireland, and similar scenarios unfolding across the once-and-sometime civilized
- [Alphonsus of Ligouri, A Moral Teacher for All Ages](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/01/alphonsus-of-ligouri-a-teacher-for-all-ages/) - Saint Alphonsus Ligouri (1696 - 1787) was a renaissance man, whose kind was a rarity in his post-renaissance era, and even more so now in our age of specialization, often in esoteric subjects that would have puzzled anyone before, say, 1960. Alphonsus received a double doctorate in civil and canon law at the tender age
- [Pope Benedict and Martha's Way](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/29/pope-benedict-and-marthas-way/) - BENEDICT XVI ANGELUS Courtyard of the Papal Residence, Castel Gandolfo Sunday, 18 July 2010 Dear Brothers and Sisters, We are now in the heart of summer, at least in the northern hemisphere. This is the period in which schools are closed and the greater part of the holidays are concentrated. Even the pastoral activities
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Alphonsus Ligouri](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/08/01/pope-benedicts-address-on-alphonsus-ligouri/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE St. Peter's Square Wednesday, 30 March 2011 [Video] Saint Alphonsus Liguori Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today I would like to present to you the figure of a holy Doctor of the Church to whom we are deeply indebted because he was an outstanding moral theologian and a teacher of spiritual life
- [Saint John Henry Newman: Doctor Universalis Ecclesiae](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/31/saint-john-henry-newman-doctor-universalis-ecclesiae/) - It's just been announced that the Oratorian, Saint John Henry Newman will be declared a Doctor of the Church, making him the 38th with that illustrious title. This is good news. Newman was, if anything, anti-modernist and against what the growing tendency, even in his day, to deny objective truth in revealed religion: And, I
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Ignatius](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/31/benedict-and-saint-ignatius/) - (Excerpt from an address given April 22, 2006 ) St Ignatius of Loyola was first and foremost a man of God who in his life put God, his greatest glory and his greatest service, first. He was a profoundly prayerful man for whom the daily celebration of the Eucharist was the heart and crowning point
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/30/45680/) - Laugh and grow strong (Saint Ignatius of Loyola, +1556)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/29/45657/) - Do not forget: thin sowing means thin reaping; the more you sow, the more you reap. Each one should give what he has decided in his own mind, not grudgingly or because he is made to, for God loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9)
- [Stauffenberg, Hitler, and the Ever-Forgotten Anniversary](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/28/stauffenberg-hitler-and-the-the-ever-forgotten-anniversary/) - “With particular seriousness he added that it was questionable whether the coup would succeed, but even worse than failure would be the shame of submitting tamely to oppression and allowing oneself to be paralyzed by it. Freedom, both internal and external, could only be won by action.” - A German officer’s description of his conversation
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/27/45629/) - Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thess 5:16-18)
- [Musical Offering: Starry, Starry Night](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/27/musical-offering-starry-starry-night/) - On this July 27th, in 1890, Vincent van Gogh - who suffered from mental illness for much of his life - shot himself in the chest. He survived, but would die two days later from a consequent infection. For our musical offering this week, we offer this elegiac, poignant 1971 ballad by Don McLean, Starry,
- [Blessed Maria Maddalena Martinengo, a Great Imitator of the Humble and Poor Christ](https://catholicinsight.com/2022/07/27/blessed-maria-maddalena-martinengo-a-great-imitator-of-the-humble-and-poor-christ/) - On July 27th the Church celebrates the feast of Blessed Maria Maddalena Martinengo. The Northern Italian Capuchin nun teaches us how to love Christ in humility and total simplicity. Mary was born from a noble family who lived in Brescia on October 4, 1687, at the Martinengo palace in Brescia. Sadly, the ordeal cost the
- [Saint Pantaleon](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/27/41109-2/) - Saint Pantaleon (+305) was a very popular early martyr, even though little is known about his life. The martyrology has it that he was a Christian, but strayed from his faith, and studied medicine - or what passed for the healing arts in those days - and became the personal physician of the emperor, either
- [Seventeenth Sunday: Perfecting Our Prayer With and In Christ](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/24/seventeenth-sunday-perfecting-our-prayer-with-and-in-christ/) - Ask and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you (Lk. 11: 9). ⧾ The Scripture lessons of the Mass today speak to us of prayer – specifically of intercessory prayer in our first reading, and of the prayer which is expressive of all
- [Saints Joachim and Anne: Grandparents of Jesus](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/26/saint-joachim-and-anne-the-grandparents-of-jesus/) - (From our archives:) Let us sing praises to Joachim and Anna, The couple honoured by God (as they are His kinsmen) They have borne for us the Maiden Who in a manner beyond understanding Gave birth to Him who though fleshless Became the incarnate to save the world With her they intercede for our souls
- [Pope Benedict Reflects on Saints Anne and Joachim](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/26/pope-benedict-saints-anne-and-joachim/) - On this day in 2009, at the end of his Angelus message, Pope Benedict had these brief words to say on Saints Joachim and Anne: A second point for reflection comes from today's liturgical commemoration of Saints Joachim and Anne, parents of Our Lady, and therefore, grandparents of Jesus. This occasion makes us think of
- [Sixteenth Sunday: Keeping It Simple, in Silence](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/20/sixteenth-sunday-keeping-it-simple-in-silence/) - Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her (Lk. 10: 42). ⧾ In Christian tradition Martha and Mary have been seen as personifications, respectively, of the active and contemplative life. In truth, both aspects are necessary in the life of every Christian; work and prayer. We need to pray,
- [There and Back Again](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/19/there-and-back-again/) - I returned from Rome late last night, around about midnight – at least, all the way back home, which required an hour’s walk through the city, to catch the bus to the airport (on the coast, near some lovely beaches, seen when airborne); then a nine-hour flight to Toronto; an hour lay-over; a connecting flight
- [Saint Arsenius the Great, and the Silent](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/19/saint-arsenius-the-great-and-the-silent/) - Saint Arsenius, called ‘the Great’, (350 – 445), whom we recall on this 19th of July, was one of the early monks of the desert, and founders of the eremitical way of monastic life. As an anchorite, he lived alone in prayer and penance. But he did not begin this way, born into wealth and
- [Mary Magdalene's Metanoia](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/22/the-magdalene/) - A blessed feast of Mary Magdalene, which - or who - was raised from memorial status in the liturgical revisions of 1969 to a full feast by a decree of Pope Francis in 2016. This was to emphasize her role as the 'apostle to the Apostles'; perhaps also to emphasize the feminine genius in evangelization;
- [Saint Bridget, Sweden's Charitable Bibliophile](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/23/swedens-saint-bridget/) - Long before Sweden was known for ABBA and IKEA – two exports not to everyone’s taste, even if billion-dollar brands – along with a soft version of socialism and moribund demographics, the northern nation was was a land of saints, of a people devoted to the Faith, after the conversion of the Baltic regions between
- [James the Greater, Matamoros and Humanae Vitae: Signs of Contradiction](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/25/james-greater-humanae-vitae-signs-contradiction/) - Today we celebrate the great feast of Saint James 'the Greater', not because of any intrinsic superior quality to the other apostle James, 'the Lesser', traditionally held to be the author of the New Testament epistle, whom we venerate with Saint Philip on May 3rd, but likely because this James was older. Today's James was
- [Saint Lawrence of Brindisi: Bible and Cappucino](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/21/lawrence-of-brindisi/) - Guilio Cesare Russo was born to a family of Venetian merchants, but not in Venice, but rather far to the south, in the village of Brindisi, right down on the heel of the boot of Italy. He took the name Lawrence when he entered the Order of the Capuchins, a strict reform of the Franciscans,
- [All Roads Lead to Rome](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/23/all-roads-lead-to-rome/) - On this feast of Saint Bridget of Sweden, one of the four co-patrons of Europe (along with Saint Benedict, Saint Catherine of Siena and Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross), it's fitting to post this final reflection on my pilgrimage, on those last few days in Rome. Rome, the Eternal City, the Centre of Christendom
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/25/45602/) - Every best gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no change nor shadow of alteration.Every best gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no change nor shadow of alteration. (Epistle of
- [Pope Benedict and Saint James the Greater](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/25/pope-benedict-and-saint-james-the-greater/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Wednesday, 21 June 2006 James, the Greater Dear Brothers and Sisters, We are continuing the series of portraits of the Apostles chosen directly by Jesus during his earthly life. We have spoken of St Peter and of his brother, Andrew. Today we meet the figure of James. The biblical lists of
- [Merton, Charbel and the Contemplative Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/24/merton-charbel-and-the-contemplative-life/) - In light of today's Saint Charbel - a hermit and contemplative - and last Sunday's Gospel on the roles of of 'Martha' and 'Mary', I thought I'd share this intriguing essay by Thomas Merton, on the respective active and contemplative lives. This distinction goes back to the earliest days of the Church, and is discussed
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/24/45590/) - A man who prays lives out the mystery of existence, and a man who does not pray scarcely exists. (Saint Charbel Maklouf, +1898)
- [Saint Charbel's Holy Hidden Life](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/24/saint-charbels-hidden-life/) - God often works through hidden ways, and those who live a hidden life. Amare nesciri, Saint Philip Neri was wont to say, 'love to be unknown'. Behind the noise of the world, the saints are sowing the seeds of the kingdom, and one of the most 'invisible' of them all was the priest-hermit Saint Charbel
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/23/45573/) - My Lord Jesus Christ, Your blessed, royal, and magnificent heart could never, by torments or terrors or blandishments, be swayed, from the defense of Your kingdom of truth and justice. (Saint Bridget of Sweden, +1373)
- [Pope John Paul II's Letter Proclaiming Saints Bridget, Catherine and Teresa Benedicta Co-Patronesses of Europe](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/23/pope-john-paul-iis-letter-proclaiming-saints-bridget-catherine-and-teresa-benedicta-co-patronesses-of-europe/) - POPE JOHN PAUL II APOSTOLIC LETTER ISSUED MOTU PROPRIO PROCLAIMING SAINT BRIDGET OF SWEDEN SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA AND SAINT TERESA BENEDICTA OF THE CROSS CO-PATRONESSES OF EUROPEHIS HOLINESS POPE JOHN PAUL II FOR PERPETUAL REMEMBRANCE 1. The hope of building a more just world, a world more worthy of the human person, stirred by
- [Pope Benedict and Bridget of Sweden](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/23/benedict-and-bridget/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 27 October 2010 Saint Bridget of Sweden Dear Brothers and Sisters, On the eve of the Great Jubilee in anticipation of the Year 2000 the Venerable Servant of God John Paul II proclaimed St Bridget of Sweden Co-Patroness of the whole of Europe. This morning I
- [Mary Magdalene, Apostle of the Apostles](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/21/mary-magdalene-apostle-of-the-apostles/) - Vatican City, 10 June 2016 – As expressly wished by the Holy Father, the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments has published a new decree, dated 3 June 2016, Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, by which the celebration of St. Mary Magdalene, currently obligatory memory, will be elevated in
- [Bairstow's Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/20/bairstows-let-all-mortal-flesh-keep-silence/) - Sir Edward Bairstow (1874 - 1946) was an Anglican organist and composer, who wrote mainly for the church. Our schola learned this polyphonic rendition of the ancient hymn, Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence, from the Liturgy of Saint James, with the text derived from Habakkuk, Zechariah and Isaiah, with a clear Eucharistic theme. It
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/20/45522/) - God speaks in the silence of the heart. Listening is the beginning of prayer (Saint Teresa of Calcutta, +1997)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/19/45512/) - One day, through the Rosary and the Scapular, Our Lady will save the world. (Saint Dominic, +1221)
- [Florence: Art, Beauty and Truth](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/16/florence-art-beauty-and-truth/) - Firenze! Even the name - at least in Italian - signifies energy, exuberance, enthusiasm. What is one to say of Florence in a few words? I spent but an afternoon wandering the glorious city of saints and sinners, politicians and potentates, of geniuses and giants. One cannot take it all in, even in a lifetime. There
- [The Profound Peace of Assisi](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/17/the-profound-peace-of-assisi/) - I wasn’t quite prepared for Assisi, even if it was just what I needed. I suppose God works like that. When I got off the train in a place that looked something out of a spaghetti western, I felt a bit like a lost gunslinger, unsure which way to turn, and the choice will define
- [Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Our Mother and Our Queen](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/18/our-lady-of-mount-carmel-our-mother-and-our-queen/) - On the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, we who wear her Scapular and have consecrated ourselves to her, mystically climb the heights of Mount Carmel. On this day, we who have been enrolled in the Confraternity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel are one with the members of the Order of Carmelites. Though
- [Le Sieci and Christ the King](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/14/le-sieci-and-christ-the-king/) - I left off these reflections with my arrival in Florence, after the Purgatory - I will not say hell, for it had its end - of the overnight bus ride across the border. I now take them up again as I depart. I do not wonder that the bus drivers - and so many others
- [The Eschatological Message of Our Lady of Mount Carmel](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/16/our-lady-of-mount-carmel/) - Around this time of year in the Office of Readings, or Lauds, we follow the travails of the prophet Elijah from the Book of Kings, his battle with the Ahaz, the false prophets of Ba'al, the whole spiritus mundi - and the Jezebel behind the throne. He was indeed a 'burning fire', refusing to compromise
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/16/45479/) - Strongest of armor, We trust in thy might: Under thy mantle, Hard press’d in the fight, we call to thee. Our way uncertain, Surrounded by foes, Unfailing counsel You give to those who turn to thee. (From the Flos Carmeli_
- [Pope John Paul II and Our Lady of Mount Carmel](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/16/pope-john-paul-ii-and-our-lady-of-mount-carmel/) - A young Karol Wojtyla, while discerning his vocation as he matured in his hometown of Wadowice, thought of becoming a Carmelite, drawn to their contemplative life and deep spirituality, prayer, devotion to Our Lady, silence, and total focus upon God. His spiritual director recommended rather that he follow the path to the diocesan priesthood -
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Bonaventure: Part I](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/15/pope-benedict-and-saint-bonaventure-part-i/) - (The young Josef Ratzinger completed his doctorate on the thought of Saint Bonaventure, and his devotion is evinced by his giving not just one, but three full addresses on the great Franciscan. So these are personal for the former pontiff and, as he says, nostalgic. We would do well to ponder them on this feast).
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Bonaventure: Part II](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/15/pope-benedict-and-saint-bonaventure-part-ii/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Paul VI Audience Hall Wednesday, 10 March 2010 Vatican Basilica To participants in the Pilgrimage of the Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation Dear Brothers and Sisters, I am glad to receive you in this Basilica and to address my cordial welcome to each one of you. I greet the pilgrimage promoted by the Don
- [Pope Benedict and Saint Bonaventure: Part III](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/15/pope-benedict-and-saint-bonaventure-part-iii/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Saint Peter's Square Wednesday, 17 March 2010 [Video] Saint Bonaventure (3) Dear Brothers and Sisters, This morning, continuing last Wednesday's reflection, I would like to study with you some other aspects of the doctrine of St Bonaventure of Bagnoregio. He is an eminent theologian who deserves to be set beside another great
- [Bonaventure and Thomas: Companions in Life and Heaven](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/15/bonaventure-and-thomas/) - (In light of the today's feast of Saint Bonaventure, here are some thoughts on the great Franciscan cardinal, scholastic, doctor of the Church and mystic from Pope Benedict XVI, whose doctorate followed the thought of the saint's historical theology. Bonaventure was a contemporary, collaborator and colleague of the Dominican Saint Thomas Aquinas, another 'doctor', and
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/15/45452/) - In beautiful things St. Francis saw Beauty itself, and through His vestiges imprinted on creation he followed his Beloved everywhere, making from all things a ladder by which he could climb up and embrace Him who is utterly desirable. (Saint Bonaventure, +1274)
- [The Seraphic Doctor: Saint Bonaventure](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/15/the-seraphic-bonaventure/) - (This year, I have the great grace of being in Assisi on the feast of this great Franciscan saint - more to say on that. For now, some words on Bonaventure, the ‘second founder’ of the Franciscan Order, which continues to do great things for God). Some of the 'Doctors of the Church' have epithets,
- [Swtizerland and Frauenthal](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/11/swtizerland-and-frauenthal/) - Upon arriving in Zurich from Vienna, I had an hour or so before I caught a connecting train down to Knonau and the convent. So thought I would take a stroll through the ‘old town’, divided by the River Limpett, whose cerulean waters flow into the wide expanse of Lake Zurich. Also overlooking the lake
- [A Message to the Camillians in the Jubilee Year](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/14/a-message-to-the-camillians-in-the-jubilee-year/) - MESSAGE OF THE HOLY FATHER TO THE CAMILLIAN FAMILY ON THE 450TH ANNIVERSARY OF THEIR FOUNDER'S BIRTH To Fr Angelo Brusco Superior General of the Order of Clerics Regular Servants of the Sick (Camillians) The joy that accompanies the celebration of the Great Jubilee of the Incarnation has a special resonance for the Camillian
- [Saint Camillus de Lellis: Alea Iacta Est](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/14/saint-camillus-de-lellis-giving-all-for-christ-the-sick-and-the-dying/) - A true saint for our times is the one we celebrate today - Camillus de Lellis (+1614) (we will follow the Canadian calendar, and for those American readers who would like to reflect on Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, please see here). Camillus was born in what is now Abruzzo, in Naples, in 1550. His father was
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/14/45432/) - Think well. Speak well. Do well. These three things, through the mercy of God, will make a man go to Heaven. (Saint Camillus de Lellis, +1614)
- [Fifteenth Sunday: The Good Samaritan and the Thirst of God](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/13/fifteenth-sunday-the-good-samaritan-and-the-thirst-of-god/) - (A blessed Sunday to all our readers. Here’s one from our archives, in a reflection from Father Marco Testa, which bears fruit in reading, and re-reading). Take care of him and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.’ (Lk. 10:35). The parable of the Good Samaritan ends with a
- [Saint Henry and Cunegunde’s Heavenly Rule](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/13/29232-2/) - We could do with more leaders such as Saint Henry (+1024, 'Emperor of the Romans' and 'King of the Italians', the last of the 'Ottonian' line - descended from the Emperor of the recently re-founded Roman Empire, Otto I (+973). Henry was from Bavaria – whence Josef Ratzinger would also hail a millennium on –
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/12/45425/) - If you give people light, they will find their own way. (Dante Alighieri, +1321)
- [Holy Wars Medieval and Modern, Briefly Considered](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/10/holy-wars-medieval-and-modern-briefly-considered/) - From the time of Muhammad on, Islam has conquered lands by force of arms. The great warrior Charles Martel stopped the Muslim invasion of France in the 8th century. His grandson, Charlemagne, having gained his own reputation as a fighter, was able to hold off invasions of Muslims from the south and Vikings from the
- [Orange Day and Saint Oliver Plunkett, the Last Martyr of the Protestant 'Reformation'](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/12/william-mary-plunkett-and-the-boyne/) - July the 12th is ‘Orange’ Day, celebrated still with fervour in Northern Ireland, commemorating the defeat of the rightful Catholic king of the Stuart line, James II of England and Ireland (and VII of Scotland) by the forces of the Dutch and Protestant William of Orange (named after a region in Holland). William’s wife was
- [Two Praetorians and a Jesuit](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/02/two-praetorian-guards-and-a-jesuit/) - Saints Processus and Martinian (+67) were Praetorian Guards – the elite of the Roman legionaries – who were tasked with keeping watch over Saints Peter and Paul in prison. When the Apostles’ prayers caused a miraculous spring to flow, the guards were converted and baptized. Since Christianity was proscribed during the reign of Nero –
- [Fourteenth Sunday: Ite Missa Est!](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/06/fourteenth-sunday-ite-missa-est-2/) - See I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves (Lk. 10:3). ⧾ The commission of the seventy disciples to go and to prepare for Our Lord’s own coming is a commission that continues through the ages. We too are likewise sent by virtue of our Confirmation; and at the end of
- [Myriads of Martyrs for China](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/09/myriads-of-martyrs-for-china/) - Through the centuries there have been untold thousands of martyrs in China, and July 9th is chosen as the day to commemorate them, for it was on this day in 1900 that the Chinese government, during the so-called ‘Boxer Rebellion’, ordered the execution of 45 Christian men, women and children, and so is celebrated as
- [A Pilgrimage from Vienna to Rome](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/08/a-pilgrimage-from-vienna-to-rome/) - I decided to make a pilgrimage to Rome, prompted by the Jubilee year, and walking through the Holy Doors. But I couldn’t just show up in Rome, so to make a pilgrimage of it, I thought I’d fly first to Vienna, where I’ve never been, to visit the International Theological Institute and a young alumni
- [Saint Benedict: Ora et Labora](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/11/aquinas-vatican-ii-and-the-benedict-option-redux/) - A blessed feast of Saint Benedict (+543), as we commemorate the monk credited with saving what we know as 'civilization'. As a student in the decadence of sixth century fin de siècle Rome, Benedict found he could no longer live amongst the enervating and debilitating milieu of his fellow scholars, their carousing and worldliness -
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/11/45393/) - In fact, Benedict was convinced that only after overcoming these temptations would he be able to say a useful word to others about their own situations of neediness. Thus, having tranquilized his soul, he could be in full control of the drive of his ego and thus create peace around him. Only then did he
- [Pope Benedict on Saint Benedict](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/11/pope-benedict-on-saint-benedict/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE St Peter's Square Wednesday, 9 April 2008 Saint Benedict of Norcia Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, I would like to speak about Benedict, the Founder of Western Monasticism and also the Patron of my Pontificate. I begin with words that St Gregory the Great wrote about St Benedict: "The man of
- [Pope John Paul II Canonizes 119 Martyrs of China](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/09/pope-john-paul-ii-canonizes-119-martyrs-of-china-and-four-others/) - CAPPELLA PAPALE FOR THE CANONIZATION OF 123 NEW SAINTS HOMILY OF JOHN PAUL II Sunday 1 October 2000 1. "Your word is truth; sanctify us in your love" (Gospel Acclamation, Italian Lectionary; cf. Jn 17: 17). This invocation, an echo of Christ's prayer to the Father after the Last Supper, seems to rise from the host of saints and blesseds whom the
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/08/45323/) - Let us put our trust in God and console ourselves with the thought that all is well, if it is in accordance with the will of the Almighty, as He knows best what is profitable and beneficial to our temporal happiness and our eternal salvation. (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, +1791_
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/06/45316/) - Search within your heart for what is pleasing to God. Your heart must be crushed. Are you afraid that it might perish so? You have the reply: Create a clean heart in me, O God. For a clean heart to be created, the unclean one must be crushed. (Saint Augustine, +430)
- [A Plea for the Institution of the Feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/28/a-plea-for-the-institution-of-the-feast-of-the-immaculate-heart-of-mary/) - The sanctuary of God in heaven opened, and the ark of the covenant could be seen inside it. Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman adorned with sun standing on the moon and with the twelve stars on her head for a crown (Ap. 11:19; 12:1). June is sometimes referred to as the
- [Fate, Determinism and Free Will](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/30/fate-determinism-and-free-will/) - “All theory is against free will; all experience for it.” Samuel Johnson In the normal course of our lives we assume we are able to choose between thoughts or actions that are right or wrong. Determinism (fatalism) is the philosophical conviction that such choice is not possible. Advocates of psychological determinism insist that a previous
- [July and the Most Precious Blood](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/01/july-and-the-most-precious-blood/) - Traditionally, the month of July is dedicated to the Precious Blood of Jesus. Hence, before entering into the reason why this is so it would be wise to have a look at what the Bible have to say on the Precious Blood of Jesus. The blood of Christ is precious, unblemished, and spotless. In the
- [The Fourth of July: Pier Giorgio and Elizabeth of Portugal](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/04/pier-of-italy-and-elizabeth-of-portugal/) - A joyous Independence Day to all our American readers. There are any number of factions developing in the once-United States, but all can be traced back to those who accept the Christian principles that hold the republic together - in God we trust - from those who have rejected them, and are more or less
- [The Necessity of An 'Ordo Amoris'](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/28/the-necessity-of-an-ordo-amoris/) - The notion of the ‘ordo amoris’ – the ‘order of love’ - has generated some debate of late, not least since some big names have been involved: JD Vance responding to Pope Francis, and Robert Cardinal Prevost – before he was elected to the papacy – responding to Mr. Vance, by re-tweeting a tweet. I
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/07/01/45204/) - Precious Blood, ocean of divine mercy: Flow upon us! Precious Blood, most pure offering: Procure us every grace! Precious Blood, hope and refuge of sinners: Atone for us! Precious Blood, delight of holy souls: Draw us! Amen. (Saint Catherine of Siena, +1380)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/28/45190/) - We are celebrating a feast day, consecrated for us by the blood of the apostles. Let us love their faith, their lives, their labours, their sufferings, their confession of faith, their preaching. (Saint Augustine, +430)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/28/45173/) - The most efficacious way to have devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is through the Immaculate Heart of Mary (St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, +1690)
- [Dedication, Devotion and Reparation to the Sacred Heart: The Twelve Promises](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/27/dedication-devotion-and-reparation-to-the-sacred-heart/) - Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is popularly associated with St. Margaret Mary Alocoque, a nun of the Visitation Order who during the years 1673-1675 who received a number of private revelations through which Our Lord chose to reveal His Most Sacred Heart to the world. ‘My divine Heart is so inflamed with love
- [Double standards: the EU, seals, and abortion](https://catholicinsight.com/2014/01/07/on-seals-and-double-standards/) - Q. What are the sins that cry to heaven for vengeance? A. ...defrauding laborers of their wages. - Quebec Catechism, 1871 On 25 November 2013, the World Trade Organization (WTO) upheld the EU’s ban on seal products from Canada. The EU cites the reason for the ban is “public moral concerns over animal welfare. ... that seal
- [Tolkien's Devotion to Thomas More](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/22/tolkiens-devotion-to-thomas-more/) - As a prayerful and traditional Catholic, Tolkien had a profound devotion to many saints. Foremost, of course, was the Blessed Virgin Mary, upon whom, as he described, “all my own small perception of beauty both in majesty and simplicity is founded.”[1] Extending from his filial love for his spiritual Mother, Tolkien greatly venerated St. Bernadette Soubirous,
- [Thinking in Non Sequiturs](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/26/thinking-in-non-sequiturs/) - Non sequitur is a Latin phrase that translates to “It does not follow.” This is arguably the most common of all the logical fallacies with which every thinking person should be acquainted. A simple example would be: “My dog probably threw up because he ate tainted food.” While it is possible that the dog threw
- [What Vatican II Actually Said on the Mass](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/25/what-vatican-ii-actually-said-on-the-mass/) - IN the wake of the blessed Solemnity of Corpus Christi - whether you celebrated on the proper Thursday, or the following Sunday - with liturgical battles still raging in dioceses across the land, perhaps these few words might help, if not ‘fix’ your liturgical woes, at least to find modicum of peace within your own
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/27/45133/) - In the Sacred Heart, every treasure of wisdom and knowledge is hidden. In that divine heart beats God’s infinite love for everyone and for each of us as individuals. (Pope Saint John Paul II, +2005)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/26/45125/) - Understand this well: there is something holy, something divine hidden in the most ordinary situations, and it is up to each one of you to discover it. (Saint Josemaria Escriva, +1975)
- [Bach's Cantata in Praise of the Baptist](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/24/bachs-cantata-in-praise-of-the-baptist/) - Christ unser Herr zum Jordan kam is one of a few cantatas J.S. Bach compose in honouor of Saint John the Baptist, first performed in 1724 on this Solemnity celebrating the birth of the Baptist, June 24th. The libretto is based on a hymn by Martin Luther - yes, I know, but Pastor Martin maintained his
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/23/45098/) - If we lived in a state where virtue was profitable, common sense would make us saintly. But since we see that avarice, anger, pride and stupidity commonly profit far beyond charity, modesty, justice and thought, perhaps we must stand fast a little, even at the risk of being heroes. (Saint Thomas More, +1535)
- [Britain's Descent into Darkness](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/23/britains-descent/) - The once-merrie-and-Catholic land of Britain – the two adjectives go together like apple pie and ice cream – continues to descend down the dark tunnel of the culture of death. In the last week, around the feasts of Saints Thomas More and John Fisher, England legalized euthanasia, as well as the murder of the unborn
- [Sheppard Camerata Sacred Music Concert](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/23/sheppard-camerata-sacred-music-concert/) - On this upcoming Sunday, July 29th - the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul - there is a sacred music concert presented by Sheppard Camerata. A concert of Sacred Music from England in the 15th and 16th Centuries, including Sheppard, Byrd, Taverner, Tallis and more The location is Blessed Sacrament Parish, 194 Fourth Avenue, Ottawa,
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/22/45084/) - There is nothing so great as the Eucharist. If God had something more precious, He would have given it to us. (Saint Jean Vianney, +1859)
- [Saint John Paul II's Last Corpus Christi](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/22/john-paul-iis-last-corpus-christi/) - MASS AND EUCHARISTIC PROCESSION FOR THE SOLEMNITY OF THE BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST HOMILY OF JOHN PAUL II Basilica of St John Lateran Thursday, 10 June 2004 1. "As often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes" (I Cor 11: 26). With these words St Paul
- [The Acts of the Apostles: A Synopsis](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/21/the-acts-of-the-apostles-a-synopsis/) - Luke, the author of Acts of the Apostles, is the same Luke who authored the third Gospel. The style and tenor of writing is consistent with that Gospel. Luke's personal witness of many of the events described, especially concerning Paul with whom he often traveled, is reflected in his frequent use of the pronoun “we.”
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/21/45075/) - All evangelical perfection is attained by the continual exercise of prayer. (Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, +1591)
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/20/45072/) - Do not let the past disturb you, just leave everything in the Sacred Heart and begin again with joy. (Saint Teresa of Calcutta, +1997)
- [Targeting Civilians an Evil for All, and For All Time](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/18/target-civilians-an-evil-for-all/) - In his recent column beating the drums of war in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, George Weigel says Ukraine must be provided with the tools to defeat Russia. One might wonder what he might mean by ‘tools’ and how envisions ‘defeat’. Anon, my point for now is with his concluding words: If other aggressors learn
- [A Short Primer on Just War Theory](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/17/a-short-primer-on-just-war-theory/) - The Church has a long history of ‘just war theory’. Over the centuries, deriving from the initial formulation of Saint Augustine, then, building upon that, Saint Thomas and other theologians, our Tradition has developed the criteria for initiating and conducting a war that is just, which may seem paradoxical. After all, does not war necessarily
- [The Index, R.I.P.?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/14/the-index-r-i-p/) - On this day in 1966, the Index Librorum Prohibitorum - Index of Forbidden Books - was abolished by Pope Paul VI, just after the close of the Second Vatican Council. The Index had a long and involved history. Popes and bishops have always warned against heretical writings, even those propaedeutic to heresy, since the earliest
- [If Christianity Recedes, What of Human Dignity?](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/15/if-christianity-recedes-what-of-human-dignity/) - “No power on this earth can destroy the thirst for human dignity.” – Nelson Mandela Since the inception of Western civilization, the concept of human dignity has been that value most cherished by those who live under its domain. And it is fitting that we recognize Christianity, especially Catholicism, to be responsible for this occurrence.
- [The Saints Reflect on the Most Holy Trinity](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/15/the-saints-reflect-on-the-most-holy-trinity/) - Today we are celebrating Trinity Sunday. As the Cathechism of the Catholic Church tells us in number 234: The mystery of the Most Holy Trinity is the central mystery of Christian faith and life. It is the mystery of God in himself. It is therefore the source of all the other mysteries of faith, the light that
- [Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/15/solemnity-of-the-most-holy-trinity/) - Since you are children of God, God has sent into your hearts the Spirit of His Son, the Spirit who cries out: Abba, Father. (Gal 4:6; Communion Antiphon) Each year, the Sunday following the Solemnity of Pentecost commemorates the Mystery of the Most Blessed Trinity, the central mystery of Christian faith and life. It is
- [How Trinity Sunday Entered the Calendar](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/15/how-trinity-sunday-entered-the-calendar/) - You may wonder how the Feast of the Holy Trinity came to be celebrated on the Sunday after Pentecost. It was not always celebrated today; in fact, we are approaching the seven hundredth anniversary of its universal institution under Pope John XXII (✝ 1334) in the fourteenth century.[1] Before then, the Sunday remained vacant, a
- [Saint Juliana of Cornillon and the Institution of Corpus Christi](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/19/saint-juliana-of-cornillon-and-the-institution-of-corpus-christi/) - BENEDICT XVI GENERAL AUDIENCE Wednesday, 17 November 2010 Saint Juliana of Cornillon Dear Brothers and Sisters, This morning too I would like to introduce a female figure to you. She is little known but the Church is deeply indebted to her, not only because of the holiness of her life but also because, with her
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/19/45032/) - I am the bread of life. (John 6:48)
- [Corpus Christi](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/19/corpus-christi/) - A blessed Solemnity of Corpus Christi to our readers outside of Canada! Here, as in other regions, the feast is moved the following Sunday, when we will post our customary fare of reflections and music. But feel free to peruse in the meantime, and rejoice in the Most Holy Body and Blood of our Lord
- [](https://catholicinsight.com/2025/06/17/45021/) - Take risks: if you win, you will be happy; if you lose, you will be wise. – Unknown
- [Pope Paul VI in Praise of Women](https://catholicinsight.com/2019/03/09/pope-paul-vi-in-praise-of-women/) - A young mother lightly remonstrated with me about my diatribe on Women's Day, claiming that the post did not emphasize enough the positive and affirmative. As a Scotch-Irish pessimist, I tended to agree, so, at the same mother's suggestion, I am posting in supplement this excerpt from the closing address of Pope Saint Paul VI
- [From the Homily of Pope Paul VI At the Canonization of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales](https://catholicinsight.com/2019/10/25/from-the-homily-of-pope-paul-vi-at-the-canonization-of-the-forty-martyrs-of-england-and-wales/) - 25th October 1970 To all those who are filled with admiration in reading the records of these martyrs, it is perfectly clear that they are worthy to stand alongside the greatest martyrs of the past; and this is not merely because of their fearless faith and marvellous constancy, but by reason of their humility, simplicity
- [Habemus Papam](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/06/25/habemus-papam/) - Dear Brother Cardinals, The period of the conclave has been a momentous time not only for the College of Cardinals, but also for all the faithful. In these days we have felt almost tangibly the affection and the solidarity of the universal Church, as well as the concern of so many people who, even if
- [Why I chose 'Francis'](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/06/25/why-i-chose-francis/) - As you know, there are various reasons why I chose the name of Francis of Assisi, a familiar figure far beyond the borders of Italy and Europe, even among those who do not profess the Catholic faith. One of the first reasons was Francis’ love for the poor. How many poor people there still are
- [The dignity and importance of work](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/09/07/the-dignity-and-importance-of-work/) - In the Gospel of St. Matthew, in one of the moments when Jesus returns to his town, to Nazareth, and speaks in the Synagogue, the amazement of his fellow townspeople at his wisdom is emphasized. They asked themselves the question: “Is not this the carpenter’s son?” (13:55). Jesus comes into our history, he comes among us
- [Share with the poor](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/09/23/share-with-the-poor/) - Our human family is presently experiencing something of a turning point in its own history, if we consider the advances made in various areas. We can only praise the positive achievements which contribute to the authentic welfare of mankind, in fields such as those of health, education, and communications. At the same time, we must
- [The Day of Confraternities and Popular Piety](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/11/30/the-day-of-confraternities-and-popular-piety/) - In the Gospel we heard a passage from the farewell discourses of Jesus, as related by the evangelist John in the context of the Last Supper. Jesus entrusts his last thoughts, as a spiritual testament, to the apostles before he leaves them. Today’s text makes it clear that Christian faith is completely centred on the relationship
- [Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/11/30/assumption-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary/) - Dear Brothers and Sisters! At the end of its Constitution on the Church, the Second Vatican Council left us a very beautiful meditation on Mary Most Holy. Let me just recall the words referring to the mystery we celebrate today: “the immaculate Virgin preserved free from all stain of original sin, was taken up body
- [Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/11/30/equestrian-order-of-the-holy-sepulchre/) - Dear Brothers and Sisters, You are gathered in Rome for the Order’s World Consultation which takes place every five years to reflect on the situation of the Catholic Community in the Holy Land, to evaluate the achievements and determine directives for the future. At the same time the International Pilgrimage is taking place with more
- [Pope Francis' Letter to Israel](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/12/18/pope-francis-letter-to-israel/) - To His Beatitude Fouad Twal, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, I send cordial greetings to you, your brother bishops, and all those gathered in Nazareth as you celebrate the close of the Year of Faith in the Holy Land. I assure you of my spiritual closeness and I pray that this celebration will not only witness
- [Lumen Fidei](https://catholicinsight.com/2014/03/18/lumen-fidei/) - 16. The clearest proof of the reliability of Christ’s love is to be found in his dying for our sake. If laying down one’s life for one’s friends is the greatest proof of love (cf. Jn 15:13), Jesus offered his own life for all, even for his enemies, to transform their hearts. This explains why
- [Celebration of the World Day of Peace (1 January 2014)](https://catholicinsight.com/2014/04/01/celebration-of-the-world-day-of-peace-1-january-2014/) - Paul VI stated that not only individuals but nations too must encounter one another in a spirit of fraternity. As he says: “In this mutual understanding and friendship, in this sacred communion, we must also … work together to build the common future of the human race.” In the first place, this duty falls to
- [The Way of the Cross](https://catholicinsight.com/2014/04/15/the-way-of-the-cross/) - Dear Brother and Sisters, Thank you for having taken part in these moments of deep prayer. I also thank those who have accompanied us through the media, especially the sick and elderly. I do not wish to add too many words. One word should suffice this evening, that is the Cross itself. The Cross is
- [Ash Wednesday](https://catholicinsight.com/2014/05/08/ash-wednesday/) - Dear Brothers and Sisters, Today, Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten journey of 40 days, which will lead us to the Easter Triduum, the memorial of the Lord’s passion, death, and resurrection and the heart of the mystery of our salvation. Lent prepares us for this most important moment; therefore, it is a
- [Mary, Mother of God](https://catholicinsight.com/2014/06/10/mary-mother-of-god/) - In the first reading we find the ancient prayer of blessing which God gave to Moses to hand on to Aaron and his sons: “The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give
- [Ash Wednesday Audience of Pope Francis](https://catholicinsight.com/2016/02/13/ash-wednesday-audience-of-pope-francis/) - (Here are words from our current Pontiff, Pope Francis, to help begin our Lenten journey. His message continues the tradition of the Holy Father to exhort us to metanoia and good works. All well and good. My only problem is his exhortation towards the end to realize a 'world with no poor', something he has
- [Pope Francis' First Homily on the Assumption](https://catholicinsight.com/2020/08/15/pope-francis-assumption/) - Dear Brothers and Sisters! At the end of its Constitution on the Church, the Second Vatican Council left us a very beautiful meditation on Mary Most Holy. Let me just recall the words referring to the mystery we celebrate today: “the immaculate Virgin preserved free from all stain of original sin, was taken up body
- [Pope Francis, and Beginning Lent Back in 2020](https://catholicinsight.com/2021/02/17/pope-francis-and-ash-wednesday/) - HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS Basilica of Santa Sabina Ash Wednesday, 26 February 2020 (This homily is from last year, 2020, at the beginning of a Lent that in some ways has never really ended - The Holy Father's words are still relevant, and nostalgic to think that this was just before the universal
- [Pope Francis and Lent](https://catholicinsight.com/2024/02/19/pope-francis-and-lent/) - (I realize many of us have some difficulty with Pope Francis - and the Church seems to be in a perpetual penitential mode of late - but his homilies often contain some good spiritual counsel, fitting for his papal office. In light of this beginning of Lent, I thought we should peruse some of his
- [Amoris and the Sacramentality of Marriage](https://catholicinsight.com/2019/05/31/on-the-sacramentality-of-marriage/) - How are Catholic couples meant to interpret Amoris Laetitia? When already a fog of confusion surrounds the question of whether or not the divorced and remarried may receive Holy Communion, certain statements in Amoris Laetitia add to the confusion, rather than ministering to Catholic couples with tool of clarity. Is it right for Catholics to
- [Holland's Hallowed Jesuit](https://catholicinsight.com/2019/12/21/hollands-hallowed-jesuit/) - Second only to St. Boniface, St. Peter Canisius, born in Holland, is known as the apostle of Germany, Switzerland, Holland, and other northern European countries for standing up, triumphantly, against the roaring dogmatic ruptures of the Reformation. In 1897, Pope Leo XIII wrote in high commendation of St. Peter Canisius within his encyclical letter, Militantis
- [The Arrow of Beauty: The Story of a Young Artist](https://catholicinsight.com/2022/05/21/the-arrow-of-beauty-the-story-of-a-young-artist/) - Sitting in an Essay Writing class in my first year at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, I heard these words of Joseph Razinger for the first time: ...the arrow of nostalgia pierces man, wounds him and in this way gives him wings, lifts him upwards towards the transcendent…it is the Bridegroom who has smitten
- [What and Why to Read from the Current Magisterium](https://catholicinsight.com/2020/10/06/what-and-why-to-read-from-the-current-magisterium/) - Over the past week, Pope Francis has issued not one but two relatively “major” documents, along with the standard fare of other routine Papal speeches, homilies, etc. which come out at the pace of about a document a day, on average. A Catholic who attempts to keep abreast of Papal teaching but has limited time
- [St. Therese](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/11/30/st-therese/) - Our October artist Sheila Diemert is an artist living and working in Kitchener, Ontario. She enjoys creating art that is uplifting and positive and paintings that have meaning for the owners: portraits of people they know and love or places they have been to or hope to visit one day. She paints flora, landscapes, portraits,
- [Poppies](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/11/30/poppies/) - Our November cover artist, Sheila Diemert, lives and works in Kitchener, Ontario. She enjoys creating art that is uplifting and positive and paintings that have meaning for the owners: portraits of people they know and love or places they have been to or hope to visit one day. She paints flora, landscapes, portraits, and still lifes. Sheila
- [Obama: enforcer of the sexual revolution](https://catholicinsight.com/2012/10/31/obama-enforcer-of-the-sexual-revolution/) - In the last few years, US President Barack Obama has gone to great lengths to implement his vision of a sexual revolution for all America, and indeed for the world. His actions to bring about this revolution involve a variety of attacks on religious freedom across the country and have since been extended to foreign
- [A Brief Philosophy of Music](https://catholicinsight.com/2021/04/09/a-brief-philosophy-of-music/) - 'Critical Race Theory' is all the rage, so it is not much surprise that the historiographical device currently in vogue is the notion of 'race', and it has now targeted such harmless domains as music theory. In 2019 a City of New York University professor of music, Philip Ewell, spoke on “Music Theory’s White Racial
- [The Beatification of the Servant of God, Father Michael J. McGivney](https://catholicinsight.com/2020/10/26/the-beatification-of-the-servant-of-god-father-michael-j-mcgivney/) - On Wednesday May 27, 2020 Pope Francis advanced the cause for canonization of twelve holy men and women, one of them being the Venerable Father Michael Joseph McGivney, an American Catholic priest and founder of the Knights of Columbus, the world’s largest Catholic fraternal lay organization.[1] There is always much joy to be experienced by
- [Canadians in arms pt 3](https://catholicinsight.com/2013/02/08/canadians-in-arms-pt-3/) - Camouflage S. M. George Massey, C.M.S.C. from B.M.A. “Blitz,” Vol. 1, No. 3 Brockville, ON: July 1942. They tell us tales of camouflage, The art of hiding things; Of painted forts and bowered guns Invisible to wings. Well, it is nothing new to us, To us, the rank and file; We understand this camouflage— We
- [Silence and the Clericalism of Fr. Rodrigues](https://catholicinsight.com/2017/01/16/silence-and-the-clericalism-of-fr-rodrigues/) - Father Scott Murray Scorsese’s film adaptation of Shusaku Endo’s Silence is true to the original. In fact, I don’t believe I have ever seen a movie that so closely follows its source. There are, of course, small changes and not all of Fr. Rodrigues’ interior monologues and narrations make their way into the film, but

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## Events

- [Veritas Summer Program for High School Students (second session)](https://catholicinsight.com/event/veritas-summer-program-for-high-school-students-second-session/) - Join us in the beautiful Madawaska Valley for our second annual Veritas Summer Program! Grade 11 and 12 students, along with recent high school graduates, are invited to attend Our Lady Seat of Wisdom’s Veritas Summer Program from June 28th to July 4th, 2026, or from July 12th to July 18th, 2026. During the program,
- [Rise Up 2026](https://catholicinsight.com/event/rise-up-2026/) - Rise Up is Canada’s national Catholic conference for young adults. Join hundreds of students and young professionals in Vancouver, December 29 – January 1, for four days of worship, Mass, and life-changing encounters with Jesus.
- [Steubenville Atlantic](https://catholicinsight.com/event/steubenville-atlantic/) - Steubenville Atlantic is a high-energy youth conference where hundreds of teens are invited to encounter Jesus Christ through dynamic speakers, engaging music, the Sacraments, small group discussions, and fellowship with other teens. Our conference is an outreach of Franciscan University of Steubenville in partnership with the Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth Pastoral Life and New Evangelization Office.
- [Catholic Praxis: SYNERGY 2026 Conference](https://catholicinsight.com/event/catholic-praxis-synergy-2026-conference/) - Many Catholic organizations currently operate in silos, even though they serve overlapping populations. This conference marks a first step toward breaking down those silos, encouraging dialogue, and identifying opportunities for joint action. The goal is not to stretch already limited resources further. In our sectors where the focus is on care, dignity, and justice, trying
- [The Pope's Rosary for Peace Today](https://catholicinsight.com/event/the-popes-rosary-for-peace-today/) - The Vatican has announced that Pope Leo XIV will lead a Rosary for peace today, at 7 pm Rome time, at the end of this Marian month - which means 1 pm for many of those of us on Eastern time (Toronto to New York) Accompanying his repeated calls for an end to war, Pope
- [Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice](https://catholicinsight.com/event/jane-austens-pride-and-prejudice/) - Wayside Academy in Peterborough, Ontario is presenting a play based on Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, on May 21 and 22, at 7 pm, at the Peterborough Theatre Guild, 364 Rogers Street. For more details, and for tickets, please see here.
- [Veritas Summer Program for High School Students](https://catholicinsight.com/event/veritas-summer-program/) - Join us in the beautiful Madawaska Valley for our second annual Veritas Summer Program! Grade 11 and 12 students, along with recent high school graduates, are invited to attend Our Lady Seat of Wisdom’s Veritas Summer Program from June 28th to July 4th, 2026, or from July 12th to July 18th, 2026. During the program,
- [Annual March for Life in Ottawa](https://catholicinsight.com/event/annual-march-for-life-in-ottawa/) - The National March for Life, long the largest annual protest on Parliament Hill, takes place in May to mark the Day of Infamy, when theMay14th, 1969 omnibus bill opened up the floodgates to abortion. Pro-lifers rally in front of Parliament and march through downtown Ottawa, demanding that elected representatives fight for the right to life of every human being from conception to
- [The Sheppard Camerata Choral Presentation](https://catholicinsight.com/event/the-sheppard-camerata-choral-presentation/)
- [God in the City: Intensive summer course in Catholic Journalism](https://catholicinsight.com/event/god-in-the-city-intensive-summer-course-in-catholic-journalism/) - Canadian Catholic News is pleased to offer an in-person intensive experience of its popular online course, “Telling Truth in Charity: Introduction to Catholic Journalism” with this Catholic journalism summer seminar in Toronto, Aug. 9-15, 2026. Who is this for? This fast-paced seminar is for journalists and aspiring journalists who want to learn or refine their
- [Pope Leo and a Rosary for Peace](https://catholicinsight.com/event/pope-leo-and-a-rosary-for-peace/) - Pope Leo XIV has asked Catholics across the world to join him in a Rosary for peace today, at 18:00 Rome time (6 pm), which would be noon from where I write (EST). If you are able, whether at that time or another, and in whatever way you pray, to join in intercession with the
- [Public Launch of Theopolis: Inaugural Catholic Art Exposition](https://catholicinsight.com/event/public-launch-of-theopholis-inaugural-catholic-art-exposition-2/) - "Before me were no things created except eternal ones, and I endure eternal.” — Dante, The Inferno, Canto III Theopolisis excited to mark its public launch with the inaugural exhibition, The Drama of the Soul, exploring the existence, nature, and problems of the human soul. Bringing together more than a dozen Ontario-based Catholic artists, the exhibition explores the existence,
- [Public Launch of Theopholis: Inaugural Catholic Art Exposition](https://catholicinsight.com/event/public-launch-of-theopholis-inaugural-catholic-art-exposition/) - "Before me were no things created except eternal ones, and I endure eternal.” — Dante, The Inferno, Canto III Theopolisis excited to mark its public launch with the inaugural exhibition, The Drama of the Soul, exploring the existence, nature, and problems of the human soul. Bringing together more than a dozen Ontario-based Catholic artists, the exhibition explores the existence,
- [Tenebrae Candlelight Service: Chant and Polyphony](https://catholicinsight.com/event/tenebrae-sunday-march-22/) - Join us for the original candlelight service of Tenebrae This solemn, ecumenical service of darkness reflects upon the Passion of Christ through chanted Scripture mixed with somber and dramatic motets, including: Allegri’s sublime and iconic Miserere, Orthodox chant, and works by Bach, Bruckner, Esguerra, Lotti, Rheinberger, Verdelot, and Willan Sung by the 25 voices of the Trinitas Singers and
- [Annual Wojtyla Conference](https://catholicinsight.com/event/annual-wojtyla-conference-august-6-9th/) - This year’s theme is ‘Be Not Afraid’: The Church’s Call to Mission in a Post-Christian World. Inspired by St. John Paul II’s constant exhortation “Be not afraid,” this theme focuses on the Church’s mission in our time of cultural upheaval and secularization. The Institute will explore how families, parishes, and those engaged in the intellectual life can respond
- [CLD26 Restoring the Covenant: CST as Common Social Ground](https://catholicinsight.com/event/cld26-restoring-the-covenant-cst-as-common-social-ground/) - Catholic Conscience’s next annual conference on Building a Culture of Life and Dignity will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at De La Salle Oaklands College, 131 Farnham Avenue, in Toronto, Ontario. The topic of this year’s conference is Restoring the Covenant: CST as Common Social Ground.

## Guest Authors

- [Pope Leo XIV](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pope-leo-xiv/) - Pope Leo XIV, elected on May 8th, 2025, is the 267th successor of Saint Peter. He was born on September 14th, 1955, on the Feast of the Triumph of the Cross, a propitious day. We pray he carries the heavy 'cross' of the papacy, by the grace of God, by which His yoke may be
- [Hector Aponte](https://catholicinsight.com/author/hector-aponte/) - Hector Aponte holds a degree in Political Science from Norwich University. His interests include the intersections of faith, politics, society, and morality/ethics, and he writes to bring the vast elements of the Church and faith to everyday Catholics in a more accessible manner.
- [Dr. Manolito Jaldon, Jr.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/dr-manolito-jaldon-jr/) - Dr. Manolito Jaldon Jr. is the Director of the Lasallian Student Life Office at Christian Brothers High School in Sacramento, California. He enjoys his ministry with young teens as they prepare for meaningful retreats and liturgies throughout the year. He is a dedicated writer who explores the intersections of theology and daily life on his
- [Florence V. Christy](https://catholicinsight.com/author/florence-v-christy/) - Florence V. Christy is a Catholic lay faithful and translator devoted to sharing the Word of God and reflecting on the mystery of the Catholic Church through Scripture and tradition. She currently works as a Social Studies teacher in a school in India.
- [Scott Nicholson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/scott-nicholson/) - Scott R. Nicholson, is a Professor of Theology at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College (and a founding faculty member), lecturing primarily in the area of Sacred Scripture. He also holds a degree in economics from Cornell, and a masters in theology from Saint Philip's Seminary.
- [Julie Larose Douglas](https://catholicinsight.com/author/julie-larose-douglas/) - Julie Larose Douglas is a Catholic writer and mother from Ottawa whose work explores the crossroads of theology, culture, and everyday life. She serves the public in her professional work and is active in her parish community. She is an enthusiastic supporter of Catholic Conscience.
- [Joseph Woodard](https://catholicinsight.com/author/joseph-woodard/) - Joseph K. Woodard is a research fellow for the new Gregory the Great Institute and Director of Research for the Canadian Centre for Home Education. He also moderates Great Books seminars online with Angelicum Academy. He earned degrees from the University of Alberta, Dalhousie, St. John’s Santa Fe, and Claremont (PhD). He invested fifteen years
- [Leila Reckstadt](https://catholicinsight.com/author/leila-reckstadt-2/) - Laila Reckstadt is a German-born, London-based Research Assistant at Imperial College London, with a particular interest in economics and its theoretical and practical applications.
- [Leila Reckstadt](https://catholicinsight.com/author/leila-reckstadt/)
- [John Wilson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/john-wilson/) - John Wilson is teacher of Language Arts, Social Studies, and Religion at Northmount School for Boys in Toronto and a news correspondent for The Catholic Register. In his free time, he enjoys reading and writing poetry.
- [David Carroll](https://catholicinsight.com/author/david-carroll/) - David P Carroll is: Catholic Loves and believes In Lord Jesus Christ I'm a writer and its for everyone Who celebrates Easter.
- [Magie Dominic](https://catholicinsight.com/author/magie-dominic/) - Magie Dominic grew up in Newfoundland, is an artist and writer, and author of The Queen of Peace Room and Street Angel. She lives in New York City. She
- [Alexa Bulman](https://catholicinsight.com/author/alexa-bulman/) - Alexa Bulman lives in Edmonton, Alberta where she works full time for the Provincial Government in the Arts Sector. She is passionate about the Catholic faith, music, and the arts. In her spare time she sings in two choirs, tries her best to keep her sourdough starter alive, attends many a theatre performance, crochets, swims,
- [Danielle Morin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/danielle-morin/) - Danielle Morin holds a PhD in Statistics from McGill University and teaches Statistics and Machine Learning at Concordia University for several years. Her current research focuses on the impact of technology, especially Artificial Intelligence, on university teaching and students’ learning. She has published her research in refereed journals and international conferences. Winner of several awards
- [April St. Martin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/april-st-martin/) - April St. Martin is a convert to Catholicism, baptized 2021 in Denver, Colorado; and a member of Centesimus Annus Pro Pontifice - Canada. She moved, alone, from South Korea to Canada at the age of 16; was happily married in Montreal in 2022; and now serves in RCIA and as a software engineer in the
- [Luke Robinson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/luke-robinson/) - Luke Robinson is a recent graduate of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree in Classics and Early Christian Studies. He has a great love for the Sacred Scriptures, the Church Fathers, and the Western Latin tradition. He hails from the state of Virginia.
- [Rocky Mullin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/rocky-mullin/) - Rocky Mullin is a Catholic writer and essayist whose work focuses primarily on faith, culture, and the formation of conscience. He converted to Catholicism in 2025 in search of truth, moral responsibility, and understanding spiritual challenges within modern life. Rocky is from Kansas City, MO and studies at the University of Missouri - Kansas City.
- [Jane Fawcett](https://catholicinsight.com/author/jane-fawcett/) - Jane Fawcett is a freelance writer and editor for Catholic businesses and organizations, using the power of words and storytelling to help them reach customers, share the Catholic Faith, and grow the kingdom . She is a wife and mom to three beautiful children who are being educated in Catholic schools, and has served as a
- [D.P. Curtin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/d-p-curtin/) - Dr. D.P. Curtin is a Byzantine Catholic. He holds his undergraduate degree in Theology from Villanova University, as well as graduate degrees from Chestnut Hill College (MSc), and Chatham University (PsyD). His work has appeared in First Things, VoegeinView, the Irish Catholic, Public Orthodoxy, Touchstone Magazine, and Catholic Exchange. He is also Editor-in-Chief of the Scriptorium Project.
- [Marvin Jhan Santos](https://catholicinsight.com/author/marvin-jhan-santos/) - Marvin Jhan Santos holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Philosophy and is currently finishing his M.Div. - STB and STL degrees focusing on Historical Theology at St. Mary’s Seminary and University, Baltimore, MD.
- [Tadgh Quill-Manley](https://catholicinsight.com/author/tadgh-quill-manley/) - Tadgh Quill-Manley is a Law Student at the King's Inns, Ireland. He is a practising Catholic and a committee member of the Society for Co-operative Studies Ireland, as well as a board member of the Co-operative Press in Manchester, England (publisher of Co-Op News, the global organ of the co-operative movement), and is treasurer of
- [Mary Innerst](https://catholicinsight.com/author/mary-innerst/) - Mary Innerst earned her bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts and her master's degree in Sacred Theology from ITI Catholic University in Austria. She has received training in ancient languages, creative and academic writing, and has served as a dissertation editor and research assistant. She currently teaches high school in Northern Colorado while pursuing further academic
- [Judith Kwok, MD](https://catholicinsight.com/author/judith-kwok-md/) - Judith is a Catholic physician practising in Canada. Her clinical interests include psychotherapy, palliative care, chronic pain, and complex trauma. She converted to Catholicism in her 20s. She is the author of the book, Healing through Christ: Catholic Meditations for Every Week of the Year.
- [Paul Suski](https://catholicinsight.com/author/paul-suski/) - Paul Suski hails from Poland and Australia, and is a regular contributor to Catholic Insight.
- [Marcus Peter](https://catholicinsight.com/author/marcus-peter/) - Dr. Marcus Peter is Director of Theology for Ave Maria Radio and the Kresta Institute, radio host of the daily EWTN drivetime program Ave Maria in the Afternoon, TV host of EWTN's and Ave Maria Radio's Unveiling the Covenants, a prolific author, biblical theologian, culture commentator, and international speaker. Follow his work at marcusbpeter.com
- [Sheila M. Cronin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/sheila-m-cronin/) - Sheila M. Cronin is the author of The Gift Counselor, a novel endorsed by Publishers Weekly Indie Spotlight as "goodwill for adults." Cronin’s stories and essays have appeared in numerous Christian and secular publications. Please visit www.giftcounselorbook.com for more details.
- [Fr. Richard Gribble, CSC, Ph.D.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-richard-gribble-csc-ph-d/) - Fr. Richard Gribble, CSC, Ph.D. is a priest in the Congregation of Holy Cross, presently residing at the University of Notre Dame. He is a Professor Emeritus from Stonehill College in North Easton, Massachusetts. He has written several books and numerous articles in the areas of Church history and spirituality.
- [Franz Christian Velasco](https://catholicinsight.com/author/franz-christian-velasco/) - Franz Christian Velasco is a Catholic layman from the Philippines with a background in engineering and software development. He is currently taking his Master of Engineering degree in Artificial Intelligence at the University of the Philippines. While working in the field of technology and innovation, he also loves to read, reflect, and write about traditional
- [William Pemberton](https://catholicinsight.com/author/william-pemberton/)
- [William Horton](https://catholicinsight.com/author/william-horton/) - William Horton is a Canadian Catholic educationalist and author, currently working in post-secondary education. William has a B.A., a B.Ed., an M.Ed., and started his Ph.D. in education. He writes on many different topics, including education, religion, culture, philosophy, and politics.
- [Patty Knap](https://catholicinsight.com/author/patty-knap/) - Patty Knap lives on Long Island and has been freelance writing for many years for The National Catholic Register, Catholic Standard, Western Journal, Pregnancy Help News, American Thinker etc.. She is the mother of two young adult sons. She's a pregnancy counselor, ABA therapist, and religious ed teacher. She's usually in the middle of three
- [Miles Smit](https://catholicinsight.com/author/miles-smit/) - Miles Smit is co-founder and co-director of the Petrarch Institute.
- [Matthew Vincent Chicoine](https://catholicinsight.com/author/matthew-vincent-chicoine/) - Matthew is a left-handed cradle Catholic who enjoys reading everything Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Chesterton and is also an avid comic book fan. He is married to his wife Jennifer and has four children. Matthew’s favorite saints include Athanasius, Catherine of Siena, Teresa of Avila, Philip Neri and John of the Cross. Discover more of his
- [Benjamin Lamb](https://catholicinsight.com/author/benjamin-lamb/) - Benjamin Lamb is a devoted Catholic husband and father. He resides in Central Canada.
- [Carl Sundell](https://catholicinsight.com/author/carl-sundell/) - Carl Sundell is Emeritus Professor of English and Humanities at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester, Massachusetts. The author of several books including The Intellectual and the Gunman, Four Presidents, and Shaw versus Chesterton, he has published various articles in New Oxford Review and Catholic Insight. He currently resides in Lubbock, Texas where he is developing
- [Maggie Rosario](https://catholicinsight.com/author/maggie-rosario/) - Maggie Rosario graduated from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in the spring of 2025, having completed her studies with a special focus on Literature and Theology. In the academic sphere, she is passionate about good, God-filled literature, while her more domestic interests are still to make good food and care for farm animals.
- [Joseph Donnelly](https://catholicinsight.com/author/joseph-donnelly/) - Joseph Donnelly is an undergraduate student studying history and philosophy at the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. From January-May 2025, he was a guest student at the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas (the Angelicum) in Rome, Italy, through a program with the Thomistic Institute, an academic institute of the Pontifical Faculty of
- [Pope Francis](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pope-francis/)
- [Pope Saint Paul VI](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pope-saint-paul-vi-2/)
- [Pope Pius XI](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pope-pius-xi/)
- [Pope Saint Paul VI](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pope-saint-paul-vi/)
- [Rose van Aert](https://catholicinsight.com/author/rose-van-aert/) - Rose van Aert, who hails from Mission, British Columbia, is a theology major at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in Barry's Bay, Ontario, heading up the Paul Sanders and Janine Lieu Pro-life Club. She enjoys the great outdoors, and fine music.
- [Sapphira Sinasac](https://catholicinsight.com/author/sapphira-sinasac/) - Sapphira Sinasac is the artist behind Amata Sacred and Fine Art. Born and raised near Ottawa, Ontario, Sapphira graduated from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College with a Bachelor in Catholic Studies in 2019. Following her graduation, Sapphira attended the Sacred Art School Firenze, Italy, studying oil painting in Florence, Italy and graduating in 2021
- [Shiela Diemert](https://catholicinsight.com/author/shiela-diemert/)
- [Susan Douglas](https://catholicinsight.com/author/susan-douglas/)
- [Sean Desmond](https://catholicinsight.com/author/sean-desmond/) - Sean Desmond is a student of philosophy at Tyndale University. He received his degree in Catholic Studies from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in 2020, and has maintained a special interest in music and art throughout his education.
- [Sean Gribbon](https://catholicinsight.com/author/sean-gribbon/) - Sean Gribbon is a Knight of Columbus and a graduate of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College. He is focused on serving the needs of Catholic families and building a culture of life in the Diocese of Pembroke, Ontario.
- [S. M. George Massey, C.M.S.C.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/s-m-george-massey-c-m-s-c/)
- [Fr. Scott Murray](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-scott-murray/)
- [John](https://catholicinsight.com/author/john/)
- [Suzanne Formanek](https://catholicinsight.com/author/suzanne-formanek/) - Suzanne Formanek, is the author of a recently published spiritual memoir, "The Eternal Comfort of Home" (available in paperback and kindle at Amazon.com). It describes her life long quest as a designer and renovator to create the perfect family home. Spanning several decades, a dozen construction projects she recounts her conversion from a spiritual seeker
- [Stephen Roney](https://catholicinsight.com/author/stephen-roney/) - Stephen K. Roney is a semi-retired English professor. Educated to a fine point at Queen’s, Syracuse, and Ryerson universities, he is a past president of the Editors’ Association of Canada. He has written previously for Catholic Insight, and for such publications as the Toronto Star, Report newsmagazine, Joongang Ilbo, and others at home and abroad.
- [St. Thomas Aquinas](https://catholicinsight.com/author/st-thomas-aquinas/)
- [Tate Pumfrey](https://catholicinsight.com/author/tate-pumfrey/) - Tate Pumfrey is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario, where he studied music. Originally from Thamesville, ON, he is a composer, and is pursuing a master's of composition at York University, beginning in the fall of 2020. His goal is to bring people to God through his compositions, and has recently self-published a
- [Terry McDermott](https://catholicinsight.com/author/terry-mcdermott/) - Terry McDermott is a wife, mother of eight and a grandmother. She is a registered nurse, employed in Ontario, and holds a certificate in Parish Nursing Ministry. In her precious little spare time uses her certification in her volunteer work.
- [The Traveling Troubadour](https://catholicinsight.com/author/the-traveling-troubadour/)
- [Robert Southey](https://catholicinsight.com/author/robert-southey/)
- [Rick McGinnis](https://catholicinsight.com/author/rick-mcginnis/)
- [Sarah Gould](https://catholicinsight.com/author/sarah-gould/)
- [Sharon-Rose Milan](https://catholicinsight.com/author/sharon-rose-milan/)
- [Therese Vanier](https://catholicinsight.com/author/therese-vanier/)
- [Thomas William M. Marshall](https://catholicinsight.com/author/thomas-william-m-marshall/)
- [Veronica Bornyi](https://catholicinsight.com/author/veronica-bornyi/)
- [Rev. Msgr. Vincent Foy](https://catholicinsight.com/author/rev-msgr-vincent-foy/)
- [Sean Thomson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/sean-thomson/)
- [Rita Thomas](https://catholicinsight.com/author/rita-thomas/) - Rita Thomas, of the Ottawa Valley, has a background in Economics. She enjoys dabbling in philosophy and Biblical studies.
- [Msgr. Ronald A. Knox](https://catholicinsight.com/author/msgr-ronald-a-knox/)
- [Fr. Vincent McNabb, OP](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-vincent-mcnabb-op/)
- [Victor Parachin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/victor-parachin/)
- [Rebecca Jacobson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/rebecca-jacobson/) - Rebecca Jacobson, OLSWC alumni of ’22, lives in rural Alberta where she enjoys a farm lifestyle, working in a small town and spending plenty of time with family and friends. She is passionate about building up Catholic Culture one hope-filled step at a time. In her spare time she enjoys writing, and she co-authors a
- [Peter Hála](https://catholicinsight.com/author/peter-hala/)
- [Paul-James Dwyer](https://catholicinsight.com/author/paul-james-dwyer/)
- [Peter Naus](https://catholicinsight.com/author/peter-naus/) - Peter Naus is a nineteen year old Production Associate for an Automotive company in Southwestern Ontario. Peter was kicked out of the University of Toronto Scarborough’s Specialist in Environmental Physics program because of their vaccine mandate policy. Peter is hoping to return and continue studying Physics when the mandates are lifted.
- [Peter Wilson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/peter-wilson/) - Peter Wilson is an upper-year student at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College for Studies in the Liberal Arts. His hobbies include the consumption and the composition of movies, along with hockey.
- [Peter Maurin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/peter-maurin/)
- [Vanessa Huasasquiche](https://catholicinsight.com/author/vanessa-huasasquiche/)
- [Fr. Paul McDonald](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-paul-mcdonald/)
- [Raphael Fernandes](https://catholicinsight.com/author/raphael-fernandes/) - Raphael Fernandes, who studied at Saint Jerome's College, University of Waterloo, and Queens University, is in his articling year in law studies.
- [Susan Muskett and Carol Hayes Nyce](https://catholicinsight.com/author/susan-muskett-and-carol-hayes-nyce/) - Susan Muskett and Carol Hayes Nyce are members of the Board of Directors of Pro-Family Women.
- [Peter Day-Milne](https://catholicinsight.com/author/peter-day-milne/) - Peter Day-Milne studied Classics, Philosophy and Intellectual History at some ancient universities in the UK. He is now doing some private study and writing, and is keen to find more writing work (please contact writing@calendarialiturgica.co.uk). He keeps a blog at calendarialiturgica.co.uk/blog/.
- [Peter Bartholomew](https://catholicinsight.com/author/peter-bartholomew/) - Peter Bartholomew is a Catholic writer from Michigan. His writing has appeared both in New Guard Press and on his Substack, Truth and Tradition. A member of the Christian Communicators of America speech and debate league, Peter is a great admirer of the writings of T.S. Eliot.
- [Patrick Doherty](https://catholicinsight.com/author/patrick-doherty/) - Mr. Doherty is a mathematician and occasional writer. He lives in central New Mexico, where he is pursing a master’s in statistics. He is a member of the Albuquerque Historical Society and the New Mexico Wildlife Federation. In his free time, he enjoys jazz and watching old film noir movies
- [Plinio Degoes, Esq., Ph.D.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/plinio-degoes-esq-ph-d/)
- [Reverend Dr. Paul James Dunn](https://catholicinsight.com/author/reverend-dr-paul-james-dunn/)
- [Pope Benedict XVI](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pope-benedict-xvi/)
- [Patrick Owen Brown](https://catholicinsight.com/author/patrick-owen-brown/) - Patrick Owen Brown is the host of the “Crown and Crozier” podcast. He lives near Ottawa, Ontario with his wife, children and livestock.
- [Pater Peregrinus](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pater-peregrinus/) - Pater reregrinus - the Pilgrim Father - is a priest who enjoys zealous ministry, reading good books, the great outdoors, and, on his holidays, which he tries to truly make holy days, to make visits to holy sites.
- [Pater Ignotus](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pater-ignotus/) - 'Pater Ignotus' is the pseudonym of a priest who prefers for various reasons to remain anonymous, or, in this case, ignotus, unknown. He is a faithful worker in the vineyard of the Lord.
- [Paula Adamick](https://catholicinsight.com/author/paula-adamick/) - Paula Adamick is founding editor of The Canada Post, the newspaper serving the Canadian expat community in the United Kingdom (about 200,000 of us) from 1997 to 2012. With a BA in English and Journalism and a UK Masters degree in International Journalism, Adamick has also served as arts correspondent for The Scotsman and as
- [Orestes Brownson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/orestes-brownson/)
- [Nikola Vanderheyden](https://catholicinsight.com/author/nikola-vanderheyden/) - Nikola Vanderheyden is a second-year university student, and enthusiastic lover of Christ. Born and raised in the Madawaska Valley, when she’s not in her dorm surrounded by plants & good friends, you can find her going on long walks or singing George Ezra with her 7 yr-old sister.
- [Miriam Westen](https://catholicinsight.com/author/miriam-westen/)
- [Maisie Ward](https://catholicinsight.com/author/maisie-ward/)
- [Michael Thompson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/michael-thompson/)
- [Marie Peeters-Ney](https://catholicinsight.com/author/marie-peeters-ney/)
- [Michael D. O'Brien](https://catholicinsight.com/author/michael-d-obrien/)
- [Mike Schramm](https://catholicinsight.com/author/mike-schramm/) - Mike Schramm lives in southeastern Minnesota with his wife and seven children. There, he teaches theology and philosophy at Aquinas High School and Viterbo University. He earned his MA in theology from St. Joseph's College in Maine and an MA in philosophy from Holy Apostles College. You can find his writing at Busted Halo, Homiletic
- [M.J.R.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/m-j-r/) - M.J.R. writes from the beautiful Kawartha Lakes area in Ontario.
- [Dr. Michael Evans](https://catholicinsight.com/author/dr-michael-evans/) - Michael Evans is a graduate of the Christendom College Graduate School and holds a Master of Arts in Theology, concentrating in Moral Theology. He is also a Candidate for a Doctorate of Theology from Pontifex University. He and his family live in the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia.
- [Meaghen Hale](https://catholicinsight.com/author/meaghen-hale/)
- [Pope Saint John Paul II](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pope-saint-john-paul-ii/)
- [Mary Ellen Tardif-Douglas](https://catholicinsight.com/author/mary-ellen-tardif-douglas/)
- [Maria Dalgarno](https://catholicinsight.com/author/maria-dalgarno/)
- [Michael Coren](https://catholicinsight.com/author/michael-coren/)
- [Maurice Baring](https://catholicinsight.com/author/maurice-baring/)
- [Mary Beth Bracy](https://catholicinsight.com/author/mary-beth-bracy/) - Mary Beth Bracy is a writer who is blessed to research, publish, and speak extensively on various aspects of Catholic spirituality. Her books include Behold the Lamb, Bread of Life and The Little Way of Healing Love Through the Passion of Jesus: The Stations of the Cross with St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and she is
- [Mary Woodard](https://catholicinsight.com/author/mary-woodard/)
- [Markelle, M.Ed., M.A.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/markelle-m-ed-m-a/)
- [Marie-Claire Di Carlo](https://catholicinsight.com/author/marie-claire-di-carlo/) - Marie Claire Di Carlo holds a BAC in Political Science, with religion being her best subject in high school. Her father is Italian, and her mother Venezuelan, with an older brother named Anthony. She is the author of a book called Turning Water into Soup, a step-by-step recipe guide with photos on how to create
- [Maria Theresa](https://catholicinsight.com/author/maria-theresa/) - Maria Theresa - a nom de plume - is a Theology student with the Augustine Institute, working towards a Masters. She has always enjoyed creativity in many forms and has been inspired to use her gifts of creativity for the glory of God
- [Maria Renate](https://catholicinsight.com/author/maria-renate/) - Maria Renate is the nom de plume of a writer hailing from a wild and rocky region of the United States.
- [Maria Black](https://catholicinsight.com/author/maria-black/) - Maria Black is currently in her second year of studies at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, planning to finish her Bachelor of Catholic studies with a concentration in Theology.
- [M. Aladel, C. M.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/m-aladel-c-m/)
- [Margaret Aitken](https://catholicinsight.com/author/margaret-aitken/)
- [Mairead Maines](https://catholicinsight.com/author/mairead-maines/) - My name is Mairead Maines and I enjoy writing poetry, reflections and commentary when so inspired. Currently, I enjoy being part of the Benedictine Oblate Community via internet where we share discussions while learning more about monastic life and keeping with daily prayer. I live in Oshawa, Ontario near my family.
- [Magda Vandenberg](https://catholicinsight.com/author/magda-vandenberg/) - Magda is a recent graduate from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College, where she earned a Bachelors in Catholic Studies with concentrations in Philosophy and Literature. She is currently working towards graduate studies in Literature.
- [Lars Troide](https://catholicinsight.com/author/lars-troide/)
- [Lorraine Labriola](https://catholicinsight.com/author/lorraine-labriola/) - Lorraine Labriola writes poetry and articles on cultural, political and religious themes. She is a retired teacher who lives in Oshawa with her husband.
- [Leeda Crawford](https://catholicinsight.com/author/leeda-crawford/) - Leeda Crawford writes from Toronto, Ontario and is a former teacher of religion. She has undergraduate and post graduate studies in Psychology and Expressive Arts. Leeda wrote several articles for Catholic Insight Magazine which focused on the psychological development of children, specifically during latency and early adolescence.
- [Laura Vautour](https://catholicinsight.com/author/laura-vautour/) - Laura Vautour is a recent graduate of Guelph University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Fine Art and Literature. She is currently working towards her Master of Arts in Philosophy at Trinity Western University in Langley, British Columbia.
- [Katerina Walker](https://catholicinsight.com/author/katerina-walker/)
- [Kathleen Francisco](https://catholicinsight.com/author/kathleen-francisco/)
- [Kenton E. Biffert](https://catholicinsight.com/author/kenton-e-biffert/) - Kenton E. Biffert, a PhD candidate, is a father of 7. He spends his time working as the Dean of Students at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College and seeking out new adventures to experience with his children.
- [Thought for the Day](https://catholicinsight.com/author/thought-for-the-day/)
- [Katherine Kelly](https://catholicinsight.com/author/katherine-kelly/) - Katherine Kelly is a Stewardship and Development Officer at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in Barry's Bay, Ontario. She holds a BA Hons and MA from Queen's University, and a Post-Graduate College Certificate from Georgian College. She has worked in the fields of Therapeutic Recreation and Pastoral Care, and has spent time in discernment
- [Katherine Howe Evans](https://catholicinsight.com/author/katherine-howe-evans/) - Dr. Katherine Howe Evans is an enthusiastic convert to Catholicism, having come home to Rome in 2006. She has a master's degree in Theology, a master's degree in Counseling, and a doctorate in Education. She has been OCIA Director for the past 6 years, and also serves as Assistant Director of Religious Education at St.
- [Kevin Ang](https://catholicinsight.com/author/kevin-ang/) - Kevin is an Indonesian by birth, an international student by choice. He is a graduate from Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College (Ontario) and Thomas More College (New Hampshire), where he earned his B.A. in the Liberal Arts. Not only is he engrossed in Philosophy and Classics, Kevin is also a web and graphic designer.
- [Kaleb Hammond](https://catholicinsight.com/author/kaleb-hammond/) - Kaleb Hammond holds a B.A. in English and Theology from Holy Apostles College & Seminary, where he plans to pursue a graduate degree in Thomistic Studies. He is a writer for Missio Dei and has been published at Homiletic & Pastoral Review, with forthcoming articles for St. Austin Review and Adoremus Bulletin. A convert to
- [Julia Bolzon](https://catholicinsight.com/author/julia-bolzon/)
- [Fr. Jeffrey Stephaniuk](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-jeffrey-stephaniuk/)
- [John Robson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/john-robson/)
- [Joshua Francis Filipetto](https://catholicinsight.com/author/joshua-francis-filipetto/) - Joshua Francis Filipetto is an alumnus of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in Barry's Bay, Ontario. Joshua graduated with a Bachelor of Catholic Studies undergraduate degree with a concentration in Philosophy, Summa cum Laude. His research areas of interest are Aristotelian and Thomistic philosophy, as well as Biblical, Thomistic and Josephite theology. Joshua is
- [John Tuttle](https://catholicinsight.com/author/john-tuttle/) - John Tuttle is a Catholic journalist and blogger with a passion for truth and beauty. His work has been featured by Culture Wars Magazine, Inside Over, Grotto Network, The Millions, Catholic Journal: Reflections on Faith & Culture, and the blog of the Catholic publishing company Voyage Comics.
- [John Hartley](https://catholicinsight.com/author/john-hartley/) - John Hartley is a school teacher and writer from Droitwich, England. After his conversion to Catholicism, John completed an Ecclesiastical Licence in Catechesis at Maryvale Institute, Birmingham, validated by The Faculté Notre Dame de Paris on behalf of what is now the Diastry for culture and education. His work has been featured on the TheSmartset.com,
- [Dr. John Fisher](https://catholicinsight.com/author/dr-john-fisher/) - John Fisher, M.D., is a professor of medicine at the Medical College of Georgia and a Notre Dame alumnus. While most of his publications have been in medical periodicals, he has two publications of religious opinion in Social Justice Review.
- [Fr. John O'Brien, S.J.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-john-obrien-s-j/)
- [Joanne Baker](https://catholicinsight.com/author/joanne-baker/) - Joanne M.M. Baker is a homeschooling mother of eight children. She earned her undergraduate degree at Thomas Aquinas College and is soon to complete a masters in theology at Christendom Graduate School. She and her husband have conducted a study of the Summa Theologiae of St. Thomas Aquinas for ten years in Denver, Colorado. Find
- [Deacon Jean-Nil Chabot](https://catholicinsight.com/author/deacon-jean-nil-chabot/)
- [Justin Jensen](https://catholicinsight.com/author/justin-jensen/)
- [Joseph Ferrant](https://catholicinsight.com/author/joseph-ferrant/)
- [Fr. Joseph Koterski](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-joseph-koterski/)
- [Joseph Tuttle](https://catholicinsight.com/author/joseph-tuttle/) - Joseph Tuttle is a Catholic writer and author specializing in the life and writings of Fulton J. Sheen. His work has been published with or is forthcoming with Word on Fire Blog, Adoremus Bulletin, The St. Austin Review, Homiletic and Pastoral Review, Thomistica, and Missio Dei among others. He is the author of An Hour
- [Jennifer Derwey-Deane](https://catholicinsight.com/author/jennifer-derwey-deane/) - Jennifer Derwey Deane is Catechetical Director for St. Peter's Catholic Church in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. She holds a B.A. in English Literature from the Open University. Originally from America, she lives in Dartmouth with her husband and three children.
- [Johan Eddebo](https://catholicinsight.com/author/johan-eddebo/) - John Edebbo is a Ph.D candidate in Philosophy of Religion at Uppsala University, currently finishing his dissertation entitled, "Death and the Self: On the Rationality of Afterlife Beliefs in the Contemporary Intellectual Climate". He was raised in the Lutheran Church of Sweden, but is currently about to enter the Roman Catholic Church.
- [Jen deNisco](https://catholicinsight.com/author/jen-denisco/)
- [Janusz Charczuk](https://catholicinsight.com/author/janusz-charczuk/)
- [Joseph Catalfamo](https://catholicinsight.com/author/joseph-catalfamo/) - Joseph Catalfamo is a graduate of Clemson University. At the moment, he is a attending Providence College for a M.A. in Theology, and resides in Rhode Island.
- [Jonathan Castellino](https://catholicinsight.com/author/jonathan-castellino/)
- [J. B. Priestly](https://catholicinsight.com/author/j-b-priestly/)
- [Joe Bissonnette](https://catholicinsight.com/author/joe-bissonnette/)
- [Jamey Toner](https://catholicinsight.com/author/jamey-toner/) - Jamey Toner studied Literature at Thomas More College and holds a black belt in Ohana Kilohana Kenpo-Jujitsu. He is the author of The Kai, a true story of finding the Faith through the martial arts. Toner lives and works in Massachusetts.
- [Jake Canning](https://catholicinsight.com/author/jake-canning/) - Jake Canning is an aspiring writer currently working as a labourer and farmhand. He likes long discussions about the Saints and philosophy, and his favourite storytellers are Dickens, Dostoevsky, and Dumas. When he isn’t writing he’s taking long walks with his loyal companion Dodger (named after the Artful Dodger of course).
- [Jennifer Ackford](https://catholicinsight.com/author/jennifer-ackford/)
- [Ian Hunter](https://catholicinsight.com/author/ian-hunter/)
- [H. W. Fowler](https://catholicinsight.com/author/h-w-fowler/)
- [Holly Rawlek](https://catholicinsight.com/author/holly-rawlek/)
- [Hilaire Belloc](https://catholicinsight.com/author/hilaire-belloc/)
- [H.R.G.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/h-r-g/) - H.R.G. works as a librarian in Western Canada, holding an MLIS from Western University (London, Ontario). Besides books, she is passionate about the fine arts, language, music, Catholic culture and education. She is currently exploring the via pulchritudinis in her spare time.
- [Guest Author](https://catholicinsight.com/author/guest-author/)
- [G. K. Chesterton](https://catholicinsight.com/author/g-k-chesterton/)
- [James Porter Craig](https://catholicinsight.com/author/james-porter-craig/) - James Porter Craig is an independent scholar. He is an unapologetic apologist who is deeply concerned about the future of his country
- [Grant Fitzpatrick](https://catholicinsight.com/author/grant-fitzpatrick/)
- [Frank Sheed](https://catholicinsight.com/author/frank-sheed/)
- [František Nepil](https://catholicinsight.com/author/frantisek-nepil/)
- [Francis Joseph Dvorak](https://catholicinsight.com/author/francis-joseph-dvorak/)
- [St. Francis de Sales](https://catholicinsight.com/author/st-francis-de-sales/)
- [Father Tim McCauley](https://catholicinsight.com/author/father-tim-mccauley/) - Fr. Tim McCauley is a priest of the Archdiocese of Ottawa. He was received into the Catholic Church in Brooklyn, NY in 1995, and ordained in 2002. He has served in several parishes, as well as vocation director and chaplain at Carleton University. He is currently a priest in residence at Saint George's parish parish
- [Father Thomas Carleton](https://catholicinsight.com/author/father-thomas-carleton/) - Father Thomas Carleton is an American priest, a former medic in Vietnam, who graduated from the Angelicum in Rome, spent 15 years in Italy, and is presently semi-retired, helping a community that offers the Latin Mass
- [Father Stephen DeCarlo](https://catholicinsight.com/author/father-stephen-decarlo/) - Fr. Stephen DeCarlo is a priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough, Ontario. Studying at St. Philip’s Seminary and St. Augustine’s Seminary (amongst many other schools) he was ordained in 2018 and has served as associate pastor in Lindsay, ON and is currently administrator of Immaculate Conception Parish in Peterborough. He is also affectively
- [Father Scott Murray](https://catholicinsight.com/author/father-scott-murray/) - Father Scott Murray, a graduate of the Pontifical Lateran University’s Accademia Alfonsiana in Rome, is Pastor of the parishes of St. Joseph and Saint Alphonsus Ligouri on Allumette Island, Quebec.
- [Father Robert Weaver](https://catholicinsight.com/author/father-robert-weaver/) - Fr. Robert Weaver is a Catholic priest serving in the Diocese of London, Ontario and is currently an Associate Pastor at the Chatham Catholic Family of Parishes. He has also served parishes in Ontario’s Middlesex County and Norfolk County. Prior to his ordination to the priesthood in 2018, Fr. Weaver was a faculty member at
- [Father Jack Gallagher, C.S.B.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/father-jack-gallagher-c-s-b/)
- [Dr. Eshan Dias](https://catholicinsight.com/author/dr-eshan-dias/) - Felix Eshan Dias is a Catholic writer, a husband, a father, a chemical engineer by training, and holds a doctorate from the University of Cambridge.
- [Eric Cole](https://catholicinsight.com/author/eric-cole/) - Mr. Eric Cole's first job in high school was custodian at his local parish, St John the Evangelist. He continued on to a PhD in Electrical Engineering at Virginia Tech University, becoming a professor at George Mason University. He has authored many technical articles including multiple solar energy patents and continues to develop additional energy
- [Eric Mason](https://catholicinsight.com/author/eric-mason/)
- [Elizabeth Westin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/elizabeth-westin/) - Elizabeth Westin is a second-year student at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in Barry's Bay, Ontario, who is currently working towards a Bachelor of Catholic Studies, concentrating in philosophy.
- [Elizabeth Gay](https://catholicinsight.com/author/elizabeth-gay/) - Elizabeth Gay is currently a second year student at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in Barry's Bay. She is from Ottawa, where her family of 3 sisters and 2 brothers lives. She has been published as a theater critic by the Ottawa Citizen and thoroughly enjoys knitting a good scarf.
- [Elizabeth King](https://catholicinsight.com/author/elizabeth-king/)
- [Rev. E. J. Way](https://catholicinsight.com/author/rev-e-j-way/)
- [Father Marco Testa](https://catholicinsight.com/author/father-marco-testa/) - Father Testa is a priest of the Archdiocese of Toronto.
- [Father Mario Attard, OFM, Cap](https://catholicinsight.com/author/father-mario-attard-ofm-cap/) - Fr Mario Attard OFM Cap was born in San Gwann on August 26 1972. After being educated in governmental primary and secondary schools as well as at the Naxxar Trade School he felt the call to enter the Franciscan Capuchin Order. After obtaining the university requirements he entered the Capuchin friary at Kalkara on October
- [Edvard Lorkovic](https://catholicinsight.com/author/edvard-lorkovic/) - Edvard Lorkovic is an Associate Professor of Philosophy at MacEwan University in Edmonton, Alberta. A generalist by choice, if not by formation, his teaching and research focus on moral and political issues in ancient and late modern philosophy.
- [Diane Wood](https://catholicinsight.com/author/diane-wood/)
- [David Warren](https://catholicinsight.com/author/david-warren/)
- [Dr. Kevin Hay](https://catholicinsight.com/author/dr-kevin-hay/) - Dr. Kevin Hay is a Hippocratic family physician in rural Alberta. Kevin is an amateur columnist on medical issues primarily, including several article on Voluntary Euthanasia in Canada. He is a member of the Confraternity of the Rosary and is on Twitter @kevinhay77
- [Edward Kryn, M.D.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/edward-kryn-m-d/) - Edward Kryn is a Catholic physician, a husband and father, with many years experience in his practice, and in family life.
- [D. Santos](https://catholicinsight.com/author/d-santos/) - D. Santos is a primary & secondary school educator by trade, housewife by choice and homeschooling mother of 3 (soon to be 4!) children. In between the never ending towers of dishes, mountains of laundry and wiping sticky children's faces, she aspires to find time to read about writing and write about things she has
- [David Dooley](https://catholicinsight.com/author/david-dooley/)
- [Fr. Daniel Callam](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-daniel-callam/)
- [David Beresford](https://catholicinsight.com/author/david-beresford/)
- [David Smith](https://catholicinsight.com/author/david-smith/) - David Smith is a retired union negotiator and director. He now divides his time between Florida and Montana. A very late Catholic convert, he blogs on theology at benfiniti.com, and occasionally on politics at mistermoleman.com.
- [David Arias](https://catholicinsight.com/author/david-arias/) - Dr. David Arias is a Professor of Philosophy at Our Lady of Guadalupe Seminary in Denton, Nebraska.
- [Danielle Erwin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/danielle-erwin/) - Danielle Erwin is a Catholic wife, a homeschooling mother of 5, and she loves writing poetry whenever the Holy Spirit inspires her! She has published a book of poetry she wrote after her miscarriages (Holding On: Poems on Coping With Loss After Miscarriage ) and a book of poetry on the Catholic Faith (Something More: Poetic
- [Dale Ahlquist](https://catholicinsight.com/author/dale-ahlquist/)
- [Charles Waterton, Esq.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/charles-waterton-esq/)
- [Christine Schintgen](https://catholicinsight.com/author/christine-schintgen/) - Dr. Christine Schintgen teaches literature at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College. Her current interests include Dickens, Dante, and the relationship between faith and literature. She also writes poetry. Christine and her husband Michael live in Barry's Bay with their three children
- [Charles P. Poole, Jr.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/charles-p-poole-jr/)
- [Collin Slowey](https://catholicinsight.com/author/collin-slowey/) - Collin Slowey is an independent writer on politics, culture, and religion. He lives in Washington, DC with his wife, Gabriella.
- [Colin Ian Jeffrey](https://catholicinsight.com/author/colin-ian-jeffrey/)
- [Carla Lopez](https://catholicinsight.com/author/carla-lopez/)
- [Gregory Webster](https://catholicinsight.com/author/gregory-webster/) - Gregory Webster is a permanent deacon in the Archdiocese of Chicago and coordinates his activities through Brother In The Stole Ministries. Besides degrees in science and management, he holds an M.A. in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary, and a D.Bioethics degree in Catholic and Research Bioethics from Loyola University of Chicago. Dcn. Greg
- [David Martin](https://catholicinsight.com/author/david-martin/)
- [Clare Tupta](https://catholicinsight.com/author/clare-tupta/) - Born in West Virginia, Clare Tupta is a recent graduate of Ave Maria University where she obtained her Bachelor’s in Theology. She is passionate about the faith and spreading the joy of being a Catholic.
- [Cherish Dean](https://catholicinsight.com/author/cherish-dean/) - Cherish Dean is currently studying religious education at Tyndale University. She enjoys reading classic literature, taking film photos, and likes to spend her free time in art galleries and taking flight lessons!
- [Christina M. Sorrentino](https://catholicinsight.com/author/christina-m-sorrentino/) - Christina M. Sorrentino is the Editor-in-Chief at Ignitum Today, and is also a regular contributor to Radiant Magazine. She is the author of Called to Love A Listening Heart – A Book of Catholic Poetry, and has contributed to various other Catholic publications, including Blessed is She, Catholic365, and Homiletic and Pastoral Review. She resides
- [Christine Helferty](https://catholicinsight.com/author/christine-helferty/) - Christine currently works as a music teacher for the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board. She graduated from Queen's University in 2018 after completing studies in nursing science, music, and education. Christine completed two internships with National Campus Life Network and has a special interest in pro-life apologetics. She loves singing polyphonic sacred music, working
- [Christina Gibson](https://catholicinsight.com/author/christina-gibson/)
- [Clara Fox](https://catholicinsight.com/author/clara-fox/)
- [Catherine Bauer](https://catholicinsight.com/author/catherine-bauer/)
- [Carolynne Estis](https://catholicinsight.com/author/carolynne-estis/)
- [F. Andrew Wolf, Jr.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/f-andrew-wolf-jr/) - F. Andrew Wolf, Jr. is Director of The Fulcrum Institute, a new organization of current and former scholars in the Humanities, Foreign Affairs and Philosophy, situated in Houston, Texas, USA, dedicated to the Classical Liberal tradition through the lens of Catholicism.
- [Dr. Alexander Lozano](https://catholicinsight.com/author/dr-alexander-lozano/) - Alexander J. Lozano is a physician who also holds a Master’s Degree in Theology with coursework at Notre Dame and Boston Colloge. His main area of interest is in Bioethics. He has chaired and served on various Hospital Ethics Committees over the past nearly 30 years and has several published articles dealing with Medical Bioethics.
- [Cameron Turner](https://catholicinsight.com/author/cameron-turner/) - Cameron Turner lives in the Rockland, ON, area with his wife and children. He is a full-time student at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College and hopes to pursue graduate studies in psychology.
- [Brigadier G. P. Vanier](https://catholicinsight.com/author/brigadier-g-p-vanier/)
- [Brian Welter](https://catholicinsight.com/author/brian-welter/)
- [Brian Beaudry](https://catholicinsight.com/author/brian-beaudry/)
- [Brenna Wehrle](https://catholicinsight.com/author/brenna-wehrle/) - Brenna is in her final year of completing a Bachelor of Catholic Studies with concentrations in Theology and Literature at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College. She harbours a passion for good stories in all their forms, and hopes to someday make some small contribution to the great tradition of Christian storytelling.
- [A Professor](https://catholicinsight.com/author/a-professor/)
- [Brendan Brunet](https://catholicinsight.com/author/brendan-brunet/) - Brendan Brunet is a high school senior from Southern California. He is homeschooled with Mother of Divine Grace School. He was inspired to write this poem while “Summa wrestling” in his Sacred Doctrine and American Government classes.
- [Moran Vitoria Wortman](https://catholicinsight.com/author/moran-vitoria-wortman/) - Moran Vitoria Wortman is a recent graduate from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, Canada, where she studied Political Science and Economics. She was born in Israel, moved to Canada as a child, and converted to the faith on the feast day of Our Lady of Fatima in 2018 at 13 after experiencing the
- [Gary Knight](https://catholicinsight.com/author/gary-knight/) - Gary Knight - married with one daughter - is a young-at-heart writer, catechist, math & science teacher, third-order Augustinian, outdoorsman, and pro-Life veteran.
- [John Baldino, OFS](https://catholicinsight.com/author/john-baldino-ofs/) - John Baldino, OFS is a Secular Franciscan and an Assistant Professor in Philosophy and Religious Studies at Lackawanna College in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He also teaches courses in writing and ethics at Excelsior University in Albany, New York. John is a regular contributor to Catholic Insight, Charity in Truth, Catholic 365, and Artium
- [Frederick Woodward](https://catholicinsight.com/author/frederick-woodward/) - Frederick Woodward serves as Director of Research and Investigations for Politylitics, a Legal Analyst with the Michigan Fair Elections Institute, and an Editor at the Hillsdale Forum. His work has previously been featured in The Federalist, The Lamp, The Daily Signal, and New Guard Press. He has studied at the University of Michigan, Oxford University,
- [Bradley Black](https://catholicinsight.com/author/bradley-black/) - Bradley Black is completing a graduate degree in counselling psychology, and studies the intersect between faith and psychology. He grew up in a large Catholic family in Ontario, and spent time as a seminarian. He now resides in Hamilton were he is completing a practicum in Psychotherapy.
- [Benita Prins](https://catholicinsight.com/author/benita-prins/) - Benita Prins is a recent graduate of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College. She enjoys philosophy, sacred and Baroque music, and graphic design, and has self-published three books.
- [Ben Hastings](https://catholicinsight.com/author/ben-hastings/)
- [Barbara J. Farrah](https://catholicinsight.com/author/barbara-j-farrah/) - Barbara J. Farrah is a convert to the Church, a former Marxist atheist. She spent 30 years in a variety of Strategic Management roles before retiring. She has taught university classes in European and American History, US Government, Leadership Ethics, and Nonprofit Management.
- [B.C. Knowlton](https://catholicinsight.com/author/b-c-knowlton/) - B. C. Knowlton is Lecturer in History, English, and Classics at Assumption College in Worcester MA. An interest in language articulates his work in these fields, and animates his teaching of his students. With his wife Eloise Knowlton, Dean of Studies at Assumption, he has written on the Sacrament of Reconciliation in Hitchcock’s I Confess
- [Audrey Yu](https://catholicinsight.com/author/audrey-yu/) - Audrey Yu (Maria Audrey Lukito) is a published writer and teacher. She holds a Master of Theological Studies degree in World Religions from the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, USA. Her other writings can be accessed at audreyyujiahui.com.
- [Archbishop Michael Howley](https://catholicinsight.com/author/archbishop-michael-howley/)
- [Antonio Galindo](https://catholicinsight.com/author/antonio-galindo/) - Antonio Galindo is originally from Spain, who came to live in the EEUU in 2014 together with his family as a missionary family of the Catholic Church, sent by Pope Benedict XVI. He is a member of the Neocatechumenal Way, and in 2015 entered the seminary in Newark, NJ, where he has been studying for
- [Anna Pierlot](https://catholicinsight.com/author/anna-pierlot/)
- [Anonymous](https://catholicinsight.com/author/anonymous/)
- [Anne-Marie Doyle](https://catholicinsight.com/author/anne-marie-doyle/)
- [Anne W.](https://catholicinsight.com/author/anne-w/) - Anne W. is a Catholic Christian living in the Ottawa valley.
- [Andrzej Caruk](https://catholicinsight.com/author/andrzej-caruk/) - Dr Andrzej Caruk, BSc (Hon, Microbiology and Human Sciences) DC (Hon), DACO, FACO, (neuromusculoskeletal specialist -orthopedics) is a chiropractic orthopedist living and working in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario. and a former Black Ribbon Day Committee Member and Member of Friends of Solidarity in Canada.
- [Andrew Wilson Smith](https://catholicinsight.com/author/andrew-wilson-smith/)
- [Amber-Faith Miller](https://catholicinsight.com/author/amber-faith-miller/)
- [Alexandre Grenier](https://catholicinsight.com/author/alexandre-grenier/) - Alexandre Grenier is a convert to the Catholic faith, currently in a propaedetuic year of academic formation for the priesthood.
- [Amanda Lawrence](https://catholicinsight.com/author/amanda-lawrence/) - Amanda Lawrence is a cradle Catholic, mother, librarian, writer, and speaker. She lives in her own little slice of Heaven on the coast of Massachusetts with her son and dog. She hopes to make disciples through wisdom, truth, and her service to God.
- [Ryan N.S. Topping](https://catholicinsight.com/author/ryan-n-s-topping/)
- [Fr. Abram J. Ryan](https://catholicinsight.com/author/fr-abram-j-ryan/)
- [Aedan Reidy](https://catholicinsight.com/author/aedan-reidy/) - Aedan Reidy is a second-year student at Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in Barry's Bay, ON. Originally from Belwood, ON, he is pursuing a Bachelor of Catholic Studies (BCS) degree with concentrations in theology and philosophy. Outside of classes and studies, Aedan enjoys playing the piano and organ, as well as playing hockey, hiking,
- [Adelaide Anne Procter](https://catholicinsight.com/author/adelaide-anne-procter/)
- [Adriana Catulli](https://catholicinsight.com/author/adriana-catulli/) - Adriana is a first year student at Seat of Wisdom College. In her spare time she enjoys hiking with her dogs, camping, and a good cup of coffee.
- [Annalicia DiLollo](https://catholicinsight.com/author/annalicia-dilollo/)
- [Avellina Balestri](https://catholicinsight.com/author/avellina-balestri/) - Avellina Balestri (aka Rosaria Marie) is one of the founding members and the Editor-in-Chief of The Fellowship of the King, a Catholic literary magazine featuring the works of homeschool students, homeschool graduates, and beyond. She reads and writes extensively about the history and culture of the British Isles, taking a special interest in the legends
- [Dr. Anthony Edward Dundon](https://catholicinsight.com/author/dr-anthony-edward-dundon/) - Anthony Edward Dundon is a physician who qualified in Ireland. He is also an editor, copywriter, and writer on topics of religion and spirituality. In the past fifteen years, he has had several articles published in the Majellan, Intercom, and other publications. Currently, he resides in London, UK.
- [Adam Childs](https://catholicinsight.com/author/adam-childs/) - Adam Childs, B.A., writes from Wallaceburg, Ontario, where he lives in Chestertonian style with his wife Gabriela and their three children.
- [Kathryn Hart](https://catholicinsight.com/author/kathryn-hart/) - Kathryn Hart is an alumna of Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College in Barry's Bay, ON with concentrations in Theology and Philosophy. She recently completed her MA in Dogmatic Theology at Holy Apostles College in Cromwell, Connecticut (USA), with a thesis on how the cloud of Solomon's Temple is an essential hermeneutic to recognizing God's
- [Pope St. John Paul II](https://catholicinsight.com/author/pope-st-john-paul-ii/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet

## Series

- [Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice](https://catholicinsight.com/series/jane-austens-pride-and-prejudice/)
- [Public Launch of Theopholis: Inaugural Catholic Art Exposition](https://catholicinsight.com/series/public-launch-of-theopholis-inaugural-catholic-art-exposition/)
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- [Aristotle](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/aristotle/)
- [Plato](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/plato/)
- [virtuous atheist](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/virtuous-atheist/)
- [good people](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/good-people/)
- [sanctifying grace](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/sanctifying-grace/)
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- [JRR Tolkien](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/jrr-tolkien/)
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- [The Holy Family](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-holy-family/)
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- [equality](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/equality/)
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- [Guest editorial](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/guest-editorial/)
- [Michael Thompson](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/michael-thompson/)
- [The Pickwick Papers](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-pickwick-papers/)
- [Charles Dickens](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/charles-dickens/)
- [Dickens](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/dickens/)
- [God bless us everyone](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/god-bless-us-everyone/)
- [judging](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/judging/)
- [charity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/charity/)
- [Fr. Marco Testa](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fr-marco-testa/)
- [Rosary](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/rosary/)
- [Our Lady's Psalter](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/our-ladys-psalter/)
- [mercy](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/mercy/)
- [the Giver](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-giver/)
- [December 2012](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/december-2012/)
- [icons](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/icons/)
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- [Virgin Mary of Kashubia](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/virgin-mary-of-kashubia/)
- [Virgin Mary of Gdansk](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/virgin-mary-of-gdansk/)
- [Gdansk](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/gdansk/)
- [Kashubia](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/kashubia/)
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- [motherhood](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/motherhood/)
- [Bishop Fulton J. Sheen](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/bishop-fulton-j-sheen/)
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- [Adoration](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/adoration/)
- [Reparation](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/reparation/)
- [Spiritual Motherhood](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/spiritual-motherhood/)
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- [vocations](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/vocations/)
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- [Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/mary/)
- [Mother of God](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/mother-of-god/)
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- [humanity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/humanity/)
- [end of the world](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/end-of-the-world/)
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- [ideals](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/ideals/)
- [obeying God](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/obeying-god/)
- [Hypothermia](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/hypothermia/)
- [Pride](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pride/)
- [Fairness](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fairness/)
- [Maturity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/maturity/)
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- [heroism](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/heroism/)
- [good vs evil](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/good-vs-evil/)
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- [choices](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/choices/)
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- [modernism](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/modernism/)
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- [cult of the body](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/cult-of-the-body/)
- [contemplation](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/contemplation/)
- [True Presence](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/true-presence/)
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- [dental work](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/dental-work/)
- [moose](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/moose/)
- [Gary Paulsen](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/gary-paulsen/)
- [insanity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/insanity/)
- [reason](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/reason/)
- [modernity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/modernity/)
- [western culture](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/western-culture/)
- [culture of death](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/culture-of-death/)
- [survival](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/survival/)
- [corporal works of mercy](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/corporal-works-of-mercy/)
- [World War II](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/world-war-ii/)
- [government](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/government/)
- [escape from communism](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/escape-from-communism/)
- [Long Distance](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/long-distance/)
- [Working it out](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/working-it-out/)
- [God's will](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/gods-will/)
- [Spanish](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/spanish/)
- [Harem](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/harem/)
- [Lance Armstrong](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/lance-armstrong/)
- [confession](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/confession/)
- [Oprah](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/oprah/)
- [Cycling](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/cycling/)
- [Tour de France](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/tour-de-france/)
- [Padre Pio](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/padre-pio/)
- [Fulton Sheen](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fulton-sheen/)
- [Calgary](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/calgary/)
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- [harmony](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/harmony/)
- [disconnect](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/disconnect/)
- [The Hunger Games](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-hunger-games/)
- [Joseph Joubert](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/joseph-joubert/)
- [Jesus Freak](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/jesus-freak/)
- [Same Sex Unions](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/same-sex-unions/)
- [debate](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/debate/)
- [Dale Carnegie](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/dale-carnegie/)
- [Women Priests](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/women-priests/)
- [Blessed Mother](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/blessed-mother/)
- [Virgin Mary](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/virgin-mary/)
- [Respect](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/respect/)
- [The Telegraph](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-telegraph/)
- [sexual revolution](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/sexual-revolution/)
- [changing sexual mores](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/changing-sexual-mores/)
- [dignity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/dignity/)
- [dignity of women](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/dignity-of-women/)
- [women](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/women/)
- [standards](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/standards/)
- [altruism](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/altruism/)
- [heroines](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/heroines/)
- [G.K. Chesterton](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/g-k-chesterton/)
- [courage](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/courage/)
- [action](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/action/)
- [relativism](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/relativism/)
- [lent](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/lent/)
- [Caryll Houselander](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/caryll-houselander/)
- [Eragon](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/eragon/)
- [The Screwtape Letters](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-screwtape-letters/)
- [Beowulf](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/beowulf/)
- [The Lord of the Rings](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-lord-of-the-rings/)
- [good](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/good/)
- [bad](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/bad/)
- [Auguste Comte](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/auguste-comte/)
- [Francis Dvorak](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/francis-dvorak/)
- [Eel's Creek](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/eels-creek/)
- [Florence](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/florence/)
- [Michael John Angel](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/michael-john-angel/)
- [Pietro Annigoni](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pietro-annigoni/)
- [nature](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/nature/)
- [Cardinal Ambrozic](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/cardinal-ambrozic/)
- [St Augustine's Seminary](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/st-augustines-seminary/)
- [Archbishop Spence](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/archbishop-spence/)
- [John Libby Gallery](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/john-libby-gallery/)
- [Anna Pierlot](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/anna-pierlot/)
- [Campion University](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/campion-university/)
- [St. Brigid](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/st-brigid/)
- [Ireland](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/ireland/)
- [St. Patrick](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/st-patrick/)
- [fire](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fire/)
- [beer](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/beer/)
- [fasting](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fasting/)
- [The Hobbit](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-hobbit/)
- [adventure](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/adventure/)
- [materialism](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/materialism/)
- [Valentine's Day](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/valentines-day/)
- [Men](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/men/)
- [Pop Culture](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pop-culture/)
- [Benedict XVI](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/benedict-xvi/)
- [John Paul II. St. Peter's Square](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/john-paul-ii-st-peters-square/)
- [Bikers](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/bikers/)
- [Tattoos](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/tattoos/)
- [Deus Caritas Est](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/deus-caritas-est/)
- [Spe Salvi](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/spe-salvi/)
- [Third Secret](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/third-secret/)
- [Conspiracy](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/conspiracy/)
- [Harley Davidson](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/harley-davidson/)
- [Pope Benedict XVI](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pope-benedict-xvi-2/)
- [disunity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/disunity/)
- [traveling](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/traveling/)
- [Jesus of Nazareth](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/jesus-of-nazareth/)
- [digital continent](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/digital-continent/)
- [blogging](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/blogging/)
- [Word on Fire](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/word-on-fire/)
- [The Church and New Media](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-church-and-new-media/)
- [World Communications Day](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/world-communications-day/)
- [Blog](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/blog/)
- [travels](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/travels/)
- [right to life](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/right-to-life/)
- [Charles de Foucauld](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/charles-de-foucauld/)
- [St. Gemma Galgani](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/st-gemma-galgani/)
- [St. Padre Pio](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/st-padre-pio/)
- [heroic virtue](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/heroic-virtue/)
- [stigmata](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/stigmata/)
- [bilocation](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/bilocation/)
- [daily life](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/daily-life/)
- [Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi/)
- [evangelization](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/evangelization/)
- [spiritual blindness](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/spiritual-blindness/)
- [Test Tube Babies](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/test-tube-babies/)
- [Pregnant Men](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pregnant-men/)
- [Botox](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/botox/)
- [Human Limitations](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/human-limitations/)
- [Divine Providence](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/divine-providence/)
- [Trust](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/trust/)
- [internet](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/internet/)
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- [photos](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/photos/)
- [social media](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/social-media/)
- [Apostolic Letter](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/apostolic-letter/)
- [A.J. Cronin](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/a-j-cronin/)
- [The Citadel](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-citadel/)
- [Keys of the Kingdom](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/keys-of-the-kingdom/)
- [Adventures of Two Worlds](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/adventures-of-two-worlds/)
- [pride goeth before the fall](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pride-goeth-before-the-fall/)
- [character-driven](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/character-driven/)
- [novel](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/novel/)
- [suggested readings](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/suggested-readings/)
- [authors](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/authors/)
- [gregory peck](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/gregory-peck/)
- [doctor](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/doctor/)
- [the judas tree](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-judas-tree/)
- [desmonde](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/desmonde/)
- [ex nihilo nihil](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/ex-nihilo-nihil/)
- [wales](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/wales/)
- [zoologist](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/zoologist/)
- [Pope Francis](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pope-francis/)
- [Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/cardinal-jorge-bergoglio/)
- [conclave](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/conclave/)
- [repentance](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/repentance/)
- [Confessions of St. Augustine](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/confessions-of-st-augustine/)
- [atheists](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/atheists/)
- [papacy](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/papacy/)
- [Habemus Papam](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/habemus-papam/)
- [no greater love](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/no-greater-love/)
- [viktor e frankl](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/viktor-e-frankl/)
- [whittaker champers](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/whittaker-champers/)
- [communist](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/communist/)
- [alger hiss](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/alger-hiss/)
- [christianity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/christianity/)
- [man's search for meaning](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/mans-search-for-meaning/)
- [nazi](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/nazi/)
- [concentration camp](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/concentration-camp/)
- [Holy Thursday](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/holy-thursday/)
- [Nathaniel Hawthorne](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/nathaniel-hawthorne/)
- [immortality](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/immortality/)
- [Regina Doman](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/regina-doman/)
- [irony](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/irony/)
- [life and death](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/life-and-death/)
- [destiny](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/destiny/)
- [Communication](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/communication/)
- [Patience](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/patience/)
- [Triduum](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/triduum/)
- [The Passion](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-passion/)
- [Lois Lowry](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/lois-lowry/)
- [fashion](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fashion/)
- [Holy Spirit](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/holy-spirit/)
- [Dressing with Dignity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/dressing-with-dignity/)
- [Colleen Hammond](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/colleen-hammond/)
- [St. Francis](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/st-francis/)
- [shopping](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/shopping/)
- [modesty](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/modesty/)
- [conscience](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/conscience/)
- [Catholic culture](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/catholic-culture/)
- [George Weigel](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/george-weigel/)
- [Easter Vigil](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/easter-vigil/)
- [Cussing](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/cussing/)
- [The Simpsons](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-simpsons/)
- [Alice von Hildebrand](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/alice-von-hildebrand/)
- [Catholic](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/catholic/)
- [Patrick Madrid](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/patrick-madrid/)
- [Starbucks](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/starbucks/)
- [propaganda](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/propaganda/)
- [kermit gosnell](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/kermit-gosnell/)
- [Clinic](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/clinic/)
- [Baby](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/baby/)
- [Fetus](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fetus/)
- [Court](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/court/)
- [Pennsylvania](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pennsylvania/)
- [Nazi Germany](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/nazi-germany/)
- [Philadelphia](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/philadelphia/)
- [New Evangelization](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/new-evangelization/)
- [magic](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/magic/)
- [Fairy Land](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fairy-land/)
- [For Better or Worse](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/for-better-or-worse/)
- [Kim Kardashian](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/kim-kardashian/)
- [Kris Humphries](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/kris-humphries/)
- [Pool](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pool/)
- [Stitches](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/stitches/)
- [Humor](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/humor/)
- [Boston bombing](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/boston-bombing/)
- [FBI](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/fbi/)
- [Baghdad](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/baghdad/)
- [Venezuela](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/venezuela/)
- [Iraq](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/iraq/)
- [Iraqi people](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/iraqi-people/)
- [Christian](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/christian/)
- [Syria](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/syria/)
- [Yemen](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/yemen/)
- [Afghanistan](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/afghanistan/)
- [Pakistan](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pakistan/)
- [Somalia](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/somalia/)
- [Jean Craighead George](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/jean-craighead-george/)
- [running away](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/running-away/)
- [building collapse](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/building-collapse/)
- [Bangladesh](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/bangladesh/)
- [Joe Fresh](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/joe-fresh/)
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- [The Scarlet Pimpernel](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-scarlet-pimpernel/)
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- [The Blessed Sacrament](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-blessed-sacrament/)
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- [homophobia](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/homophobia/)
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- [LA](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/la/)
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- [irrational](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/irrational/)
- [purity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/purity/)
- [idiots](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/idiots/)
- [Peter Kreeft](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/peter-kreeft/)
- [Philosophy of Tolkien](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/philosophy-of-tolkien/)
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- [Latin Mass](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/latin-mass/)
- [Time Magazine](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/time-magazine/)
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- [Scott Blackmun](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/scott-blackmun/)
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- [LGBT Human Rights Hall of Fame](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/lgbt-human-rights-hall-of-fame/)
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- [chastity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/chastity/)
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- [Sacrament of Confirmation](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/sacrament-of-confirmation/)
- [Muck](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/muck/)
- [Antidote](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/antidote/)
- [A Bedside Book of Saints](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/a-bedside-book-of-saints/)
- [complacency](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/complacency/)
- [bison](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/bison/)
- [Insecurity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/insecurity/)
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- [Woman](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/woman/)
- [Feminine](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/feminine/)
- [Jersey Shore](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/jersey-shore/)
- [Post Modern Feminist](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/post-modern-feminist/)
- [Needy](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/needy/)
- [Mother Theresa](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/mother-theresa/)
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- [doctrine](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/doctrine/)
- [evang](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/evang/)
- [The Feminine Gift](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/the-feminine-gift/)
- [authentic femininity](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/authentic-femininity/)
- [Lumen Gentium](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/lumen-gentium/)
- [Bl. Pope John-Paul II](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/bl-pope-john-paul-ii/)
- [PMS](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/pms/)
- [Blood Sugar](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/blood-sugar/)
- [Tea](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/tea/)
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- [Laughter](https://catholicinsight.com/tag/laughter/)
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