The Quality of Mercy… and Gradualism

Note: On Fridays, you can find me at Your Daily Tripod, owned by my friend TonyD. A longer version of the post below appears there. For some of us, it’s the parable of the prodigal son. We’re the older brother, and we can’t stand that the father killed the fatted calf for that profligate, who wasted… Continue reading The Quality of Mercy… and Gradualism

Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity

The Basics: Born July 18, 1880, in France; died November 9, 1906, in France; beatified November 25, 1984, by John Paul II; feast day, November 8. Woman religious, mystic, writer. The Story: As a child, Elizabeth was somewhat of a pill. She was willful and given to fits of anger. Indeed, it’s said that a priest… Continue reading Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity

Returning Catholics FAQs: More About the Bible

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… Continue reading Returning Catholics FAQs: More About the Bible

Defending the Communion of Saints

While I was out and about speaking on the women saints and blesseds this week, a woman asked a question. In essence, she wanted to know why anyone should care about a bunch of people who lived a long time ago, especially a bunch of people no one had ever heard of. I found the… Continue reading Defending the Communion of Saints