Returning Catholics FAQs: The Mechanics of Confession

On Mondays, I answer questions frequently asked by those considering a return to the Catholic Church. How do I know this stuff? I was away for more than 30 years myself, and am the co-author of  When They Come Home: Ways to Welcome Returning Catholics, a book for pastors and parish leaders interested in this ministry.… Continue reading Returning Catholics FAQs: The Mechanics of Confession

Wednesday’s Woman: St. Maria Micaela of the Blessed Sacrament

The Basics: Born January 1, 1809, in Spain; died August 25, 1865, in Spain; canonized March 4, 1934, by Pope Pius XI; feast day, August 25. Woman religious, teacher, social worker. The Story: Maria Micaela Desmaisieres, or Madre Sacramento as she would come to be known, had a rich and textured life. Born into a noble… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: St. Maria Micaela of the Blessed Sacrament

Confession: Just Do It

Note: On Tuesdays and some Sundays, you can find me at Your Daily Tripod, owned by my friend TonyD. A longer version of the post below appears there.  Warning:  Call to go to confession ahead. Yeah, I know. It can be scary to tell all your deepest, darkest sins to a priest who also happens to… Continue reading Confession: Just Do It

Returning Catholics FAQs: The Sign of the Cross

On Mondays, I answer questions frequently asked by those considering a return to the Catholic Church. How do I know this stuff? I was away for more than 30 years myself, and am the co-author of  When They Come Home: Ways to Welcome Returning Catholics, a book for pastors and parish leaders interested in this ministry.… Continue reading Returning Catholics FAQs: The Sign of the Cross