guest commentary
One city’s effort to close the digital divide
In 2021, nearly one in four U.S. households did not have an internet connection, according to Reviews.org, a website that evaluates products and services for home internet connectivity.
Remembering the life of a beloved Black nun, leader and friend
2021 saw the passing of some of the nation’s most important leaders, thinkers, writers and freedom fighters of the modern era.
A meditation on Mary’s heart at the Nativity
All along, Mary’s immaculate heart had always been fertile ground for God’s love to grow.
My Advent pilgrimage to the gravesite of Sister Thea Bowman
In these trying times, one can only wonder what Sister Thea, an unapologetic champion of Black life, mothers, families and social equality, might say about the current state of our bitterly divided nation and church.
Jesuit Father Walter Ciszek: Poor in spirit
Walter Ciszek was a tough kid growing up in the rugged coal country of Shenandoah, Pennsylvania. In the mysterious ways of God, he entered the Jesuit novitiate in 1928 and, as a novice, offered to go to the Russian missions. In 1938, he was sent to Poland and later accompanied workers who were heading into […]
Christmas supply chain issues opportunity for what matters
If we can get back to the realization that Advent is fruitful because we have four weeks set aside to focus on hope in God’s promises, peace in God’s plan, joy in God’s providence, and love of the Lord and others, then maybe we’ll see it as gift of four weeks to slowly prepare for Jesus instead of a competition of liturgical living activities to complete.
This Advent, focus on presence not presents
If we can get back to the realization that Advent is fruitful because we have four weeks set aside to focus on hope in God’s promises, peace in God’s plan, joy in God’s providence, and love of the Lord and others, then maybe we’ll see it as gift of four weeks to slowly prepare for Jesus instead of a competition of liturgical living activities to complete.
Feast of Immaculate Conception recognizes Mary’s sinless nature
Mary lived virtuously by adoring her Creator, obeying his commands and serving her neighbors.
The miracle we share at every Mass
Much of the media coverage this year has focused on whether it will call out Catholic politicians who support abortion rights. According to the draft sent to the bishops in September and subsequently leaked to The Pillar, it does not.
Mary’s message
Mary is the medium that brought Christ’s saving message into the world. It’s a message that cannot be contained by a text or meme because, like love in its highest expression, it is ineffable.