A trip to St. Rita’s Shrine October 22, 2026By Rita Buettner Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window It was a beautiful day—a day of friendship and prayer, a day of peace and discovery, and a day when we connected more deeply with a saint who is so beloved by so many.
What we see in the sky October 13, 2026By Rita Buettner Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window Whatever you see today, I hope you witness glimpses of beauty and love, kindness and mercy, healing and understanding, possibility and hope.
Soup time October 9, 2026By Rita Buettner Catholic Review Filed Under: Commentary, Feature, The Domestic Church When I was a teen, we all participated in community service while we were preparing to receive the sacrament of confirmation. I signed up for several activities, but the one I remember the best was making soup.
Praying for Heaven October 8, 2026By Rita Buettner Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window My friend’s dear mother was nearing the end of her life, and I had assured her that I would pray.
A Visit to the Relics of St. Bernadette September 27, 2026By Rita Buettner Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window Of course, once I was in line, I was all in. I found myself realizing what a blessing it was that the parking lot was packed and that the line was long.
Here comes fall: Time for chicken noodle soup September 21, 2026By Rita Buettner Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window, Recipes There are many chicken noodle soup recipes that are absolutely delicious. This one is a favorite because it’s tasty—but it’s also easy and quick.
Praying through the noise September 19, 2026By Rita Buettner Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window We can find God in the peaceful quiet of the world. But he also invites us to connect with him even in the busyness of our day.
Front-row seat September 16, 2026By Rita Buettner Catholic Review Filed Under: Commentary, Feature, The Domestic Church We bring our children to Mass. We slide into the front row in hopes it will bring our children closer to God. We pray for them every day. We ask God to help us be everything they need us to be. And they do find their way.
Our mother in joy and sorrow September 13, 2026By Rita Buettner Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window Mary knows the breadth of joy and she knows the depth of sorrow. She understands how to accompany us through life’s joys and sorrows.
The gift of a smile September 5, 2026By Rita Buettner Catholic Review Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window If you knew Jeff Nattans, you must remember his smile. He was always pleasant, always upbeat, and always eager to connect with people around him.
Faith wins the crown September 2, 2026By Rita Buettner Special to the Catholic Review Filed Under: Feature, Local News, News, Schools Gianna Romero was 18 when she first learned about a scholarship opportunity through Miss Maryland. She saw Miss Bel Air out in the community and was curious about the role.
The girl on the diving board: A back-to-school reflection August 30, 2026By Rita Buettner Filed Under: Blog, Commentary, Open Window I hope whatever this new school year brings for our young people and their families, they know God is with them. And I hope they find joy in being brave.