It seems to me that public opinion polls always have to be approached cautiously. So often the results are influenced by subjective factors: Exactly how were the questions phrased? Who was asking the questions? Did the pollster have a personal agenda? How were the participants in the poll selected? more

"Are you willing to sacrifice an entire parish for the sake of one incompetent, uncaring priest?" That's the question presented to me in a letter I received from a parishioner very unhappy with her pastor. I'll attempt to answer the question, but first, a little background. more

"I've never had the chance to talk to a priest before," said the young lady sitting next to me, "but if I don't ask you some questions right now I'll probably explode and have to see my therapist tonight." more

One of the issues in the headlines recently is whether or not auto dealers in Rhode Island should be permitted to be open on Sundays. Several factors make the question rather complicated. more

Welcome to Without a Doubt, a column of personal reflections you'll find in this space on a regular basis. Here you'll encounter a smorgasbord of written entrees - some presenting the teachings of the Church, some offering purely personal opinion; some very serious, some with a lame attempt at humor. In any event, my modest goal is to share a conversation with you, to help us get to know one another a little better. I hope you enjoy them. I always welcome your feedback. more