The 21st century is not the first era to be scandalized by the reprehensible conduct of some clergy. In 1517, Martin Luther visited Rome as a young, pious, Augustinian priest and monk. Author Eric … more

An interfaith discussion group has met alternately at Providence College and Temple Emmanuel for a number of years. I have been pleased to be among the Catholic laity and clergy along with professors … more

In the last 45 years, suicide rates have increased by 60 percent worldwide, according to the World Health Organization and other media. Currently youth suicide is increasing at the greatest rate. … more

Father Stephen Dandeneau, recently installed pastor of St. Eugene Church in Chepachet, was intrigued about a unique retreat experience in Ireland and, wanting a fellow traveler, thought, “Well, … more

The Bible is not bashful about admitting the reality of evil. Original sin is quickly introduced as our first parents’ perennial flaw. The murder of Abel by Cain, the vengeance of Lemech, and the … more

Dalai Lama is the name given to the Buddhist leaders of Tibet who are part of the newest school of Tibetan Buddhism. The name roughly translates into “big ocean.” The 14th and current Dalai Lama … more

Father Richard Donnelly, once pastor of St. Mark Church, Garden City, described the Book of Revelation, the Apocalypse, as “a spiritual pep talk in code.” No doubt one of his professors at St. … more

Two disciples among the Twelve Apostles are known by the name “James.” St. James, sometimes called “the greater,” was a fisherman, the brother of St. John, and a son of their father Zebedee … more

The canonization of St. Joan of Arc was delayed more than 500 years because, get this, she wore men’s clothing. Arrayed in battle garb, the French heroine famously led her nation to victory over … more

A congratulations card or a recovery card or a condolence card arrives in the mail from a Catholic friend and the greeting begins, “The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for…” Yes, the … more