I was surprised to learn that not all countries celebrate the same holy days. If we are traveling and the country where we are does not celebrate a holy day that we do in the USA, must we go to Mass? There are ten holy days of obligation: Mary, the Mother of God; Epiphany;...
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Must I receive both the body and the blood of Christ to receive him fully? In recent years there has been a renewed interest and practice of receiving the Eucharist under both forms or species, bread and wine. But this is not necessary to receive the eucharistic presence of Christ. The Council of Trent...
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Are some sacraments more important than others? At times, yes. Perhaps instead of thinking of importance in terms of ranking one as first or greatest, it might be easier to think of them in terms of significance. As we grow in age and in faith, sacraments take on a different meaning and significance for...
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Having entered the flu season our bishop, along with many other leaders in the church have asked to consider a few of the ritual practices of our liturgy; specifically the issue of exchanging the sign of peace, and sharing from the common cup. Let me begin my remarks by stating clearly that it is...
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Wisdom 7:7-11;  Hebrews 4:12-13;  Mark 10:17-30 (cf. also CCC par. 2052 ff.) Having entered the flu season our bishop, along with many other leaders in the church have asked to consider a few of the ritual practices of our liturgy; specifically the issue of exchanging the sign of peace, and sharing from the common...
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Exodus 24:3-8; Hebrews 9:11-15; Mark 14:12-16,22-26 Did it ever occur to you that food and memories go together?  Our own favorite food is many times more than just ‘food;’ it has to do with more than taste.  It signifies a place, a time and an experience of joy or comfort or love.  Our favorite...
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Why was the name for this Sunday changed from Corpus Christi to the feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ? The Lectionary revised by Vatican II changed the name of this feast from Corpus Christi, the feast of the body of Christ, to the feast of the Most Holy Body and...
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