Introduction While in the United States, Pope Francis often spoke about the family. More than once he referred to today’s reading from the book of Genesis which teaches us that marriage and family are at the heart of God’s plan. The Pope speaks with great love and understanding of mothers and fathers who share a...Read More

Introduction In Rome, not far from the Pantheon, there is a church called San Luigi dei Francesi. There is always a crowd in there, converged in front of the side chapel closest to the sanctuary on the left-hand side of the church. That chapel is known as the Contarelli Chapel. In it are three masterpieces...Read More

Introduction Thank you, President Garvey, Judge Starr, and Dr. Farr. My warmest thanks to all who have organized this summit on religious freedom in these days just prior to the visit of Pope Francis to the United States. Speaking of Pope Francis, let me begin these reflections on religious liberty as a cornerstone of human...Read More

We gather this afternoon with joy as a family of faith to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the canonization of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Let me begin by offering my warm greetings and deep appreciation to the congregational leaders who form The Sisters of Charity Federation as we celebrate the Vincentian Charism of Charity reflected...Read More

Words of Welcome Every day we pray the Our Father and the Hail Mary. We pray these prayers as children of our loving Father, adopted through Baptism. By baptism we are the brothers and sisters of Christ. And thus we also invoke the holy name of Mary for we are her spiritual sons and daughters....Read More

Introduction: Working Out I doubt you are interested in my workout routine so I will mention it only in passing as a way of getting into today’s Gospel. Most days I try to do between forty-five minutes and an hour on the elliptical. Elevating my heart rate for a sustained period of time is one...Read More

Introduction: Nova et Vetera In the years following the II Vatican Council, and in the teaching of successive Popes, the Church’s main focus has been on evangelization. This includes bringing the light and love of the Gospel to places where it has never been heard, to far-flung countries. It also includes re-igniting the flame of...Read More

Introduction: A Moment of Decision Years ago it was not uncommon for seminarians to begin their studies in high school. We used to call them “lifers” and I am among the last of the lifers. I entered high school seminary at the age of age of 14 in 1965. It was quite an adjustment. The...Read More