woman praying with folded hands in front of a candle

Prayer Is a Compass

Christopher Heffron October 25, 2025

St. Francis of Assisi understood the spiritual and psychological toll that life could bring.

Individual Successors for Apostles?

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 25, 2025

According to Acts 1:26, Matthias was selected to replace Judas, bringing the number of apostles back to 12. I know that the pope, the bishop of Rome, is considered the successor of Peter. Were the other apostles replaced upon their deaths?

two men hugging, encouraging each other.

Sharing Our Faith

Clifford Hennings, OFM October 24, 2025

Reflect As followers of Christ Jesus, we share in his work of salvation. We have “put on Christ,” and proclaim him in both word and

Kid looking at sunset | Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash

The Life Beyond

Jim Van Vurst, OFM October 24, 2025

The true meaning of heaven points to the union that we have with our loved ones and all the saints.

Monks, Friars, Brothers

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 24, 2025

What difference is there between a monk, a friar, and a brother? Also, members of religious communities place initials after their family name to indicate the community to which they belong. Where can I find a list of those initials?

Oak Tree | Photo by Doncoombez on Unsplash

‘Praise and Bless and Thank the Lord’

Kenneth Davis, OFM Conv October 23, 2025

Like Christ, who died upon another tree, our beloved oak tree had to expire in order to inspire.

What Do I Need to Hear?

Susan Hines-Brigger October 23, 2025

We should all stop and listen in terms of both our faith and our everyday lives. There might be something very important that we need to hear.

Peace Prayer | Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

Origin of Saint Francis’ Peace Prayer

Pat McCloskey, OFM October 23, 2025

I keep seeing Saint Francis of Assisi credited as saying, “Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” I have looked in several places but cannot find where Saint Francis said this.

Pilgrims in Rome | Photo by Chris Czermak on Unsplash

Restless Hearts Fixed on God

Christopher Heffron October 22, 2025

I spend my last night of my pilgrimage to Italy on the balcony of my hotel room drinking wine and looking up at a heavy sky.

Family Connections

Daniel Imwalle October 22, 2025

Family might mean different things to different people. You might have a “work family” or a “family of friends.” Take a moment to think of someone from one of these groups and let that person know who she or he is for you. They may be surprised and almost certainly delighted.