The new year comes a few weeks earlier — the new liturgical year, that is, starting with Advent. But even this new season and new year does not begin without grim and sobering reminders of how far from God many of us are.
Advent Week 1: Seeking the face of God? Look around you
Maureen Pratt: Together, apart for the holidays
“It’s not an ideal situation, but in these uncertain, unprecedented times, we are wise to be realistic and keep hope that soon, we will be able to visit ‘as of old.'”
New resource ‘Becoming Eucharist’ encourages mealtime conversations
A new tool is available for home use around meals to encourage conversations about faith.
Catholic Community Schools to continue with in-person classes
While distance-learning could prove to be necessary in the future, CCS leaders recognize that there is no substitute for in-person instruction, and so far, the precautions taken seem to be working, said CCS President Scott Warzecha.
Brooklyn Diocese files federal lawsuit over violation of religious freedom
The Diocese of Brooklyn filed a lawsuit in federal court Oct. 8 against the state of New York, charging that Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s new orders reducing church capacity violates the First Amendment’s guarantee of the free exercise of religion.
Belief in God as creator of all has practical consequences, pope says in new encyclical
The encyclical takes its title from St. Francis of Assisi and is inspired by his “fraternal openness,” which, the pope said, calls on people “to acknowledge, appreciate and love each person, regardless of physical proximity, regardless of where he or she was born or lives.”
Cardinal to bishops: Facilitate Mass in person as soon as conditions permit
Church services and Mass online cannot compare to or replace the in-person participation of the faithful, the head of the Vatican’s office for divine worship told the world’s bishops.
Common good, not greed, must motivate search for vaccine, pope says
During his weekly general audience Sept. 9, the pope said that “we see partisan interests emerging” in the search for a vaccine, and some people “are taking advantage of the situation to instigate divisions.