Slavery that was legal centuries ago is considered an abomination today. All the more reason not to categorize all situations regarding immigrants as either black or white. There are complicated areas in between, areas as gray as that early morn in Bethlehem when hope was born, giving way to a brighter dawn for all who tenaciously cling to hope for peace.  

I never did walk on water that summer long ago. But I learned that the true miracle is not defying gravity. It is allowing Christ to steady me when I sink, to calm the storms swirling around me and draw me into worship even in the midst of chaos. 

Sometimes, you even plant unintentionally, by the way you live your life. If you live like a follower of Jesus, that should show in what you do and say. By being kind and not adding to the divisiveness we experience today, you can be an example for others on how to treat our fellow humans.

I will never forget the day I arrived early at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen for the confirmation of my dear friend’s only son, David, in May of 2018. I had been thrown for a loop when his mother, with the full support of his father, honored me by inviting me to stand with him as his sponsor. 

Pope Leo grew up with remarkably the same kind of life I did. Who would ever have thought such a thing would be possible? Certainly not me. 

George Matysek Jr. remembers the late Elizabeth Ann Murphy, a victim-survivor of child sexual abuse and a fierce advocate for justice. She dedicated her life to ensuring survivors’ voices were heard, challenging fellow Catholics to listen and take action.

Away from the demands of corporate media, I’ve found joy in what I call “kids world,” where I’m a daily witness to the wide-eyed wonderment, thoughts and discoveries of my sons Michael (9 years old), Christian (6 years old), and their peers.

Here in the United States, the threat of facing mass deportation due to the absence of proper documentation does not have to be faced alone.

The Archdiocese of Baltimore will offer six pilgrimage sites in Baltimore, Emmitsburg and Cumberland, as well as jubilee passports to check your progress in participating in the jubilee year.

Maybe silence, especially at a time of the year so filled with what the Grinch referred to as “NOISE, NOISE, NOISE” can be the way we can encounter Christ in a more meaningful way.