Wednesday’s Woman: Saint Franca Visalta

The Basics: Born in 1170 in Italy; died in 1218 in Italy; cultus confirmed in 1273 by Gregory X; feast day, April 26; woman religious. The Story: Sometimes our spiritual rigor, regardless of how well intentioned, doesn’t sit well with others. Franca, the daughter of a family in the nobility, was sent to a Benedictine abbey when… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: Saint Franca Visalta

“See That You Be Not Deceived”

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. We don’t know what we don’t know, and sometimes, we don’t know what we do know. Regardless of your political bent, it’s tempting to feel despondent about the… Continue reading “See That You Be Not Deceived”

“Wilder Than Fire or Wind”–Peace Out, Gerry Creedon

Just like everyone else who knew him, I could tell you a lot of public stories about Gerry Creedon, the larger than life priest who died today. I could tell you he was charismatic. I could tell you he was a friend of the Kennedys, giving the invocation at Ted’s funeral. I could tell you… Continue reading “Wilder Than Fire or Wind”–Peace Out, Gerry Creedon

Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Pauline Mallinckrodt

The Basics: Born June 3, 1817, in Germany; died April 30, 1881, in Germany; beatified April 14, 1985, by John Paul II; feast day, April 30. Woman religious. The Story: Pauline’s life was full of service–to her family, her community and those in need. The oldest child of a German politician and his devoutly Catholic wife, Pauline… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Pauline Mallinckrodt