What were the most popular stories, commentaries and podcasts on CatholicReview.org in 2021? We have the list!

Father Brian Rafferty, the founding pastor of Church of the Resurrection in Ellicott City who later shepherded Our Lady of the Chesapeake in Lake Shore for 25 years, died on Christmas Eve after an extended illness. He was 84.

Catholic Review Editor Christopher Gunty sits down with Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori about the Year of the Eucharist, the worldwide synod, COVID-19, new seminarians and a new school, his new role chairing the U.S. bishop’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities and walks with Bayley, the archbishop’s dog.

In this Christmas season, Christians are often reminded that Christ is the “Prince of Peace” foretold by the prophet Isaiah. We sing songs of peace on earth and good will toward all. But what does it mean to be a peacemaker? What are practical ways to heal the divide?

While the pandemic makes winter even harder for those who live in poverty, Baltimore families and individuals find refuge in the Franciscan Center during Christmas time.

Matt Birk is best known as the hardworking center who helped the Baltimore Ravens win a Superbowl in 2013. He’s also a devoted Catholic, father of eight and a champion of the pro-life cause.

If St. Joseph had played football, Matt Birk is convinced he would have been an offensive lineman. Birk, himself a former center for the Baltimore Ravens, said the saint is all about protecting Mary and Jesus.

John Mulderig, assistant director for media reviews and visual media for Catholic News Service, gives us his insights and recommendations for best Christmas movies that help inspire us to faith and virtue. He shares the lessons we learn from them that can be shared with our families.

Becoming the first lay president in Loyola University Maryland’s nearly 170-year history weighs on Terrence Sawyer – in a good way.

When Daniel Markham joined the congregation Dec. 4 at Our Lady of the Fields in Millersville, he notched his 22nd parish on a yearlong quest to attend Mass in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.