I went on an unusual prayer retreat recently. I wore a helmet and cleats. It also involved two wheels and a strong headwind amid the rolling hills of southern Maryland.

Q: Catholic governors commit an obviously sinful act when they sign extremely permissive abortion laws. On the other hand, there is an extraordinary minister of holy Communion in my parish who told me she is pro-choice, but I’m not aware she has done anything to support abortion except maybe vote for a pro-choice candidate. My question is: At what point does being a pro-choice Catholic become sinful? (Indianapolis, Indiana)

Who are the voices working to ensure that the faith-based and human concerns are being heard in the fast-paced world of artificial intelligence (AI)? One of those voices, Ben Olsen, founder and CEO of interintelligence, a faith and technology advisory firm, recently spoke with OSV News’ Charles Camosy about his efforts connecting faith efforts with new AI technology.

This year marks the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi. Unlike many famous and powerful people in history, St. Francis, the poverello, “the little poor one,” has not been forgotten. He remains one of the most beloved and admired saints who ever lived. But the world he lived in couldn’t be more different than the one we inhabit. Yet this saint speaks to our hearts and speaks to our times like few others.

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.

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.

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.

“What virtues do you think Sheen is an example of?” That question was put to me by a fellow sister who was preparing her classroom for the beginning of the school year. Here in Peoria, Illinois, we are already several weeks into the school year. But in other parts of the country, students and teachers just had their first days of class this week. This sister was preparing a bulletin board about saints and virtues.

Q: As a parish priest, I found your recent article on the Church’s teaching on Freemasonry interesting, and I have a follow-up question: How can one deal pastorally with parishioners who are quick to suspect people of being Freemasons? I can think of one or two parishioners who are convinced the Vatican is infiltrated by Freemasons, and anybody in Church life they in any way disagree with must be a Freemason. They can be frustrating, as it’s hard to argue with them without them turning around and saying that you must be a Freemason! (Ireland)

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.