The question posed starts with the standard of proof. A civil verdict requires only a preponderance of the evidence, a fraction over half. However, the test I applied in my book, Resurrection on Trial, is explanatory adequacy, used by historians and forensic investigators for events long past. Does the Christian claim of the Resurrection explain ... Read more

This Sunday, Peter asks Jesus how many times he has to forgive a brother who sins against him.  Jesus tells him to forget the math.  Why? Gospel (Read Mt. 18:21-35) In last Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus instructed the apostles on how to handle problems that would arise in His Church when brother sinned against brother.  Now, Peter asks ... Read more

In the great mystery of God’s plan, it is hidden souls who He uses to unleash supernatural power in the world. In our worldliness, we think it is much more “useful” to be visible while working on grand plans and lofty goals with clear successes. This is not how the Lord sees things. He calls ... Read more

“What does it mean to feed someone?” Every human being understands, almost instinctively, that food and water are not merely biological necessities. Think of a mother feeding her child, a wife bringing soup to her sick husband, a nurse moistening the lips of an elderly patient, a son helping his frail father drink water. These ... Read more

Fourteen-year-old Marie Bernarde “Bernadette” Soubirous had never been considered an important person. She had a hard time in class and struggled with asthma-like symptoms. However, on February 11, 1858, she was searching for firewood near the grotto of Lourdes when she encountered a mysterious girl, around 16 or 17 years old, who was surrounded by ... Read more

The scourge of anti-life laws and provisions in our Western society is expanding at a rapid pace. Regarding euthanasia, the Catholic Church is absolutely clear: it is strictly forbidden. This is part of the perennial teachings of the Church; it will never change. The Church is also very clear about its acceptance of organ donation, ... Read more

In the collection of Eastern monastic writings called the Philokalia, the goal of the spiritual life is clear: “We must make ourselves a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit,” writes St. Diodachos of Photiki. This directive to enshrine the Holy Spirit in oneself is consistent throughout the collection, and the way to achieve such a ... Read more

Most years, on Mary’s birthday, I’m recuperating from a Labor Day weekend involving a backhoe and at least one cookout and probably canning of one sort or another. Labor Day seems like the perfect backdrop for a reflection of the Blessed Mother, though. It’s a chance to stop and honor the work and toil we ... Read more

I’ll never forget when I once told a relative about a group of cloistered nuns—the Poor Clares—in Cleveland, Ohio, who spend their entire lives adoring Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament. That relative thought it was a wasted life. Surely, they could be doing something better with their time, this person thought. My relative’s words ... Read more

In 1894, Labor Day was declared a national holiday. Most worked a six-day work week and then enjoyed Sundays for worship, time with family, and relaxation. Sunday was their “Divine Day of Vacation,” set aside by God to slow us down and recharge us physically, mentally, and—most importantly—spiritually.   In God’s 3rd Commandment, “Remember to ... Read more