A recent documentary, “Hail Satan?,” follows a group called the Satanic Temple—which is recognized as a church by the IRS. A film review of it reprinted in The Plain Dealer opened this way: The church members busied themselves with community…

In this modern age, it’s hard for many to relate to the people depicted in ancient Scriptures. But all we have to do is read today’s newspapers or go to online social media to recognize the same old characters among…

When some of us think about religion, laws and regulations can intrude—making it easier to lose faith than gain it. Gaining faith is simplicity itself. It’s why Jesus loved children so much—because they don’t burden themselves with legalistic baggage. The…

All branches of the military have used P.R. to attract recruits. “Join the Army and See the World” and “Be All that You Can Be” might be the most famous. At times, the realities of 20th century war and sacrifice…

Before attending Easter Sunday services a few weeks ago, Sri Lanka was probably not on the mental maps of many American Christians. That changed after a series of terrorist suicide bombings killed hundreds of people of many faiths and nationalities…

The scriptures show that some of Jesus’s followers—both friends and enemies—could recognize him anywhere. That is evident in this Sunday’s readings, especially among those categorizing themselves in the latter camp—the ones who followed him to death. As the Gospel of…

Edward R. Murrow, the legendary journalist who rose to fame during World War II, is credited for saying, “Anyone who isn’t confused doesn’t really understand the situation.” He also called his era of humanity “an age of confusion.” “Opinions can…

As Easter Sunday approaches, many of us yearn for some of the dramatic miracles we read about in the scriptures. Our real problem is we tend to ignore the quiet miracles that happen to us every day—some that we help…

New methods and practices designed to save lives can cost them if the people entrusted with those lives stay locked into their old ways. That’s as true today as it was when this Sunday’s Mass readings were written. And as…

  Older readers might remember a guy named Paul Harvey. He became best known for his “The Rest of the Story” radio features reporting the unsung outcomes of often-told stories.  Sunday’s gospel reading includes the Prodigal Son parable, which ends…