It was a tough year, and there is no indication that we’re going to have it any easier in 2019. In just a matter of weeks, the abuse crisis in the Church will be as front and center as it was last June when the
So here we are, well into the Advent season — a season barely recognized by the world any longer. It’s a season that is meant for reflection, silence and anticipation. But everywhere we go, the Christmas carols have been playing for weeks now, and the
Italy is my happy place. It’s not just because of my full-blooded Italian heritage. The beauty, even in the busy and ancient metropolis of Rome, is incomparable. Whether it’s the quaint cobblestone streets lined with lovely shops, bakeries and ristorantes, all of which sit underneath
A few months ago, after I posted information on an annual women’s pilgrimage to Italy, a trip I co-host each year, I read a very sad comment on my Facebook page. A woman said while a visit to Italy, and in particular a tour of
There have been a lot of important discussions and efforts taken in recent years regarding bullying, and for good reason. It’s a big problem: the National Center for Education Statistics reveals that close to 21 percent of students report being a victim of bullying. But
Several years ago, as a result of increasing concerns over terrorist attacks at home and abroad, the Department of Homeland Security began running a major public awareness campaign with the main message built around the statement, “If you see something, say something.” The main idea
When I sat down about a year and a half ago to write my book, “Beyond Sunday: Becoming A 24/7 Catholic,” I had no idea how badly we would need to do just that. For years, I wanted to explain to Catholics the impact bringing
Children’s stories can still have profound meaning for adults. One of my favorites, “The Emperor’s New Clothes” by Hans Christian Anderson, provides plenty of food for thought as to why the Church finds herself once again facing abuse scandals. Part of the reason we’re in
As the “summer of suffering in the Church” continues to unfold, so too does the shocking reality that more Catholics, not just select bishops, are in denial. Some members of the laity want to pretend the crisis is an invention of the Catholic and secular
Recently during one of my daily radio programs, I invited listeners to call in with their questions and concerns regarding the current scandals facing the Catholic Church. On the air with me that day to offer advice, perspective and Catholic direction was Father John Riccardo
