It doesn't take Doppler radar to reveal the storms in our lives. Apart from global terrorism and local violence, every family experiences turmoil: mismatched expectations, needy relatives, rebellious children, mounting debt, sudden unemployment, perplexing choices, beginnings and endings full of uncertainty. Yes, we are "battered by the waves . . . for the wind (is) against" us (Matthew 14:24). Continue »

In my late teens and early twenties, I could often be found in dark, smoke-filled clubs, hanging out with my friends and listening to alternative rock music. Typically, the band members played loud, angry songs and sported earrings and spiked hair.  Continue »

“Peace and war begin at home. If we truly want peace in the world, let us begin by loving one another in our own families. If we want to spread joy, we need for every family to have joy.” (Mother Teresa of Calcutta) Continue »

Savvy adults know that every minute with young children is an opportunity to communicate values and ideals. They also realize that "teaching moments" don't have to be heavy to be effective. Sometimes, the most powerful lessons slip in unawares Continue »

The Christmas countdown is on, and people are shopping, planning festive menus, and merrily dashing about. But the season can wear a different face for those of us who live alone -- who haven't yet married (or fear we might never), who have aged and watched our parents die, or who live far from our folks and siblings. Others of us have spouses who are far away, perhaps on necessary business or even in combat. For these and other reasons, we may find ourselves largely isolated in this season of family togetherness. Continue »

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, then I will enter his house and dine with him, and he with me." (Revelation 3:20). To me, these words of Jesus describe what we are all trying to do during Advent. Spiritually, we wait, anticipate, and open the door wider for the coming of the King. Continue »

Assess: Reflect on how you currently celebrate Advent and Christmas. Are you happy with your family traditions? Did you choose them, or did they just happen for no good reason? Do you and your spouse agree on them? Are they focused on Christ? Do they reinforce the values you want to communicate to your children? Continue »

"I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit," said the priest. It would have been more accurate to say, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, the moth wing, and the Holy Spirit." Continue »

What kind of home is the most fertile ground for religious vocations? What characterizes the parents of children who become nuns, priests, brothers, and consecrated virgins? Continue »

We’re often urged to "pray for vocations." Almost always, this is meant as an encouragement to ask God for more priests and religious for service to the church. Certainly, this intention is crucial and timely. Continue »