Focus on Faith

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First reading: Ez 2:2-5
Second reading: 2 Cor 12:7-10
Gospel: Mk 6:1-6

The Vatican has released a document that establishes norms and principles for women who dedicate their lives as consecrated virgins and their place in the life of the church.

Fifty years ago, an encyclical was released affirming a long-held teaching of the Catholic Church, yet it became one of the most controversial encyclicals in recent church history.

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
First reading: Wis 1:13-15; 2:23-24
Second reading: 2 Cor 8:7, 9, 13-15
Gospel: Mk 5:21-43 or 5:21-24, 35b-43

To understand the surprising survival of “Humanae Vitae,” it is important to understand what the “pill” was promising to the world. “Humanae Vitae” was written just eight years after the pill was made publicly available. Many predicted that the pill could end poverty and “overpopulation” by dramatically reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies.

Mention use of digital media, and I’m sure you will find people on either side of the spectrum. Regardless of where you stand, I know one thing is certain — the power of digital networks cannot be underestimated in the lives of today’s young people.

Should those flags be removed during the Mass?/ Who are the men protecting Pope Francis?

Summer is a busy time of comings and goings, which may be why I didn’t receive a question for this column. So in the spirit of summer travel and activities I offer you some timely prayers.