St. Maria Goretti: Peace Through Mercy
Just over one hundred and fifteen years ago, little Maria Goretti was killed in Nettuno, Italy. The Short and Saintly Life of Maria Goretti Maria’s father died of malaria when...
6 Modest Dresses for Summer (That are Ethically-Made)
I address a heartfelt appeal that the logic of profit not prevail, but rather that of solidarity and justice. At the center of every situation, especially work-related, should be the...
Be a Missionary to Ireland (Without Leaving Your Home)
When The Blessed is She team first discerned and decided that the theme of the Blessed is She retreats for 2018 would be Wild, I had no idea just how...
What is an Indulgence?
The word “indulgence” always made me feel a little uncomfortable. Growing up Catholic, I knew it was something Martin Luther got upset about when he separated himself from Catholicism back...
Why and How to Start a Meal Train
The arrival of a new baby. Loss of a loved one. Financial difficulty. Illness. Hospitalization. These are just a few of the situations that bring out a family’s need for...
Our Family Secret: Addiction and Shame
One Wednesday night, my husband and I attended a class that Catholic Charities hosted at our parish about family stress. We sat in a partially-filled room as the topic of...
Grappling with Generosity
Almost every evening as I head home from work, there is a homeless veteran perched at the end of the highway exit where cars line up at a red light....
Divine Mercy and the "Spark" of the Sacred Heart
It has been just over six years since I made a pilgrimage to Krakow, Poland to visit the Shrine of the Divine Mercy. I was able to pray in the...
Why You Shouldn't Wait to Volunteer
“Chips? Salad? Would you like dressing on that?” It took me twenty-four years before I volunteered for the first time at a breakfast program. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy...
Renewal and Encouragement for Lent
Like a new year, Ash Wednesday can come with excitement, plans, and goals. We are determined that this Lent will be the best Lent ever! Perhaps you had at the...
Scrupulosity: When Catholic Guilt Goes Wrong
The word scrupulous is usually used to describe someone who is extremely thorough and attentive to detail. It’s meant to be a compliment. However, for many Catholics, being scrupulous is...
Service + Love
O Most Holy Trinity! As many times as I breathe, as many times as my heart beats, as many times as my blood pulsates through my body, so many thousand...
