Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Maria Crucified Satellico

The Basics: Born December 31, 1706, in Italy; died November 8, 1745, in Italy; beatified October 10, 1993, by John Paul II; feast day, November 8. Woman religious. The Story: Maria’s short life was full of both struggle and joy. From childhood, perhaps influenced by a priest uncle who lived with her family, Maria wanted to… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Maria Crucified Satellico

Entitlement vs. Hope

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.  There’s entitlement, and then there’s hope. Which motivates you in your relationship with the Lord? In today’s Gospel reading from Luke 17, Jesus reminds us of our position:… Continue reading Entitlement vs. Hope

Returning Catholics FAQs: Volun-told?

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: Volun-told?

Wednesday’s Woman: St. Mary the Slave

The Basics: Born unknown; died in the fourth century in Italy; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, November 1. Victim of persecution. The Story: Mary was not popular with the other slaves of Roman senator Tertullus, at least in part because as the only Christian, she refused to participate in pagan rites. Tertullus found her to be an… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: St. Mary the Slave