Focus

New Christmas song, a heartfelt plea for unity and compassion

Dec 22, 2023

A song by a Bethlehem resident made in connection with a London-based band, has been praised by Pope Francis as Christmas approaches.
How Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree brings us back to earth

Dec 22, 2023

There is something profoundly “right” about “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” The animated Christmas special casts a perfect tone in its music, in the simple innocence of the story, in its voices, and maybe, most of all, in its silence.
How to spot a “synodal bishop”

Dec 15, 2023

Not merely a classification, the synodal bishop is a manifestation of diverse attributes embedded in the synodal process outlined by Pope Francis
No one can or will change the nature of the priesthood

Dec 15, 2023

The only way to carry out the new evangelisation called for by Pope Francis is to adopt the pastoral style of a compassionate, humble, patient and simple priest who walks at the same pace as his people, Cardinal Pietro Parolin told seminarians.
Loved, cherished and called

Dec 15, 2023

Marie Miller, a folk singer and songwriter, has recently started transitioning from secular popfolk music to more faith-filled music after a decade-plus in the music industry.
Hard-living Irish musician received last rites before he died

Dec 15, 2023

Irish songwriter and former Pogues lead singer Shane MacGowan (pic) received last rites before he died November 30, his family said. “Prayers and the last rites were read during his passing,” the family said in a written statement.
Are bishops, priests, and laity pulling in the same direction?

Dec 08, 2023

The Catholic bishops of Togo made their ad limina visit to Rome in October and, wanting to better understand the purpose of these famous five-yearly encounters, I carefully read the interview the president of the bishops’ conference gave to Vatican News afterwards.
On one’s knees, like a true king

Dec 08, 2023

Although dignified and powerful men are usually shown standing, Jesus Christ is most often on His knees, at the level of the poor – a posture that Pope Francis calls us to adopt.
The incredible story of Fr Vincent’s chalice

Dec 08, 2023

There are some coincidences in which it’s hard not to see a wink from God’s providence. Such is the story of Fr Vincent and his chalice, mysteriously left to him by the last pastor of his home church, in 1968.
Influence vs Control The Heart of Pastoral Ministry

Dec 01, 2023

At times, we yearn for everyone to align with our wishes — a feeling I’ve certainly experienced, hoping my wife, kids, and others would adhere to my expectations. As a father of five, my contentment once relied on others following my lead meticulously.