The synod has already begun in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, with about two dozen parishes, plus Catholic Center staff, clergy and religious, having already gone through the process, which entails a listening session immersed in prayer.

How can we approach the new year with the theological virtues of faith, hope and love in mind?

If we already believe that God, having existed outside of space and time before eternity, created the universe, does actually seeing the big bang or the earliest galaxies make a difference?

We all want to be saints. That’s our goal as Catholic Christians – to live a holy life worthy of heaven.

If you love your neighbor, help protect yourself and others. Wear a mask. Get vaccinated.

If we truly believe as the church teaches – and as we know in our hearts – that every person is created in the image and likeness of God, then the sign in my neighborhood has it right: matter is the minimum.

Imagine also if we put the same effort that has characterized the pandemic response into achieving world peace, or addressing climate change, or alleviating poverty in general.

Think back to your own first holy Communion – and all the Communions since then. Why would you receive a minimal piece of bread and a sip of wine if not for what it truly is?

It will take months, perhaps the rest of the year, to get to the point where enough people have been vaccinated that everything can return to normal – or a new normal. It will be exceedingly good to get back to Mass and the sacraments, resume gatherings with friends and families, and participate in parish activities and in-person classes.

In addition to the crucifix on the wall in your home, the Catholic Review wants to be there to help you live your Catholic faith, day in and day out.