"Jesus on the cross! Behold the proof the love of God; behold the final manifestation of himself, which the Word Incarnate makes upon this earth,--a manifestation of suffering indeed, but, still more, a manifestation of love."
Lenten Meditation: Penitential Fish Fries?
Fish fries are common throughout Catholic parishes in the United States during Lent. If you are unaware of what these are, the parishioners gather, generally on a Friday, and have a meal of fried fish. These events are entirely in keeping with the letter of canon law, but I would submit to you that they are not always, or even usually, in the spirit of the law.
Lenten Meditation: In the Footsteps of Saints
This Holy Season of Lent is a time to walk after the saints in penance and fasting in order that, becoming increasingly detached from worldly goods and delighting more and more in heavenly goods, we might grow in holiness and love for God.
Lenten Meditation: Seeking First the Kingdom
St. Thomas Aquinas says that "we have recourse to fasting in order that the mind may arise more freely to the contemplation of heavenly things" (ST, II-II, Q147, A1) . . . That is where our treasure should be laid, where our efforts should be directed, where our hearts should rest. [But] if we intend to benefit more fully from this holy season of Lent, then merely fasting is not enough. It is not enough to turn away from our worldly attachments. We must, in addition, turn toward God. It is not enough to renounce the worldly kingdoms we build for ourselves. We must also "seek first the Kingdom of God" (Mat. 6:33).
Lenten Meditation: Mortifying the Flesh
Lent therefore, is an extended exercise of self-control. It is a marathon in which we exercise the spiritual muscle of saying "No." Throughout this holy season, therefore, we have a wonderful opportunity to master our appetites and mortify the flesh.
Several Words on Lent
It's Ash Wednesday. Lent begins today, so I wanted to write a few words of encouragement and warning. But a few words turned out to be several words. Lent is a penitential season ordered toward repentance, detachment, and spiritual renewal. We must not believe that we have not angered God by our many sins. "Bring…
Faith and Reason 