Moral Life in Christ
Human Dignity
It is a commonly accepted truth that human beings have a special dignity. However, naturalist and modernist philosophies have obfuscated the reasons behind that special dignity, and in some cases have challenged human dignity altogether. Human dignity is a key concept in moral theology, so it is very important to be clear of its meaning…
Read MoreNatural Law
God’s Plan for Human Nature Law & Authority Let’s face it — most of the trouble we have swallowing the idea that morality is good for us stems from our inherent dislike of law and authority in general. We just can’t stomach anyone telling us what we should do. And, while we have a sort…
Read MoreHuman Freedom: Is Your Definition Adequate?
One of the most important principles of natural law has to do with the definition of human freedom. How we use our free will ultimately determines what kind of person we become. Therefore, we need to be very careful about how we define this attribute of human nature. Natural law defines human attributes according to…
Read MoreHuman Intellect
Spiritual Knowledge The human intellect is a key aspect of human nature that makes us unique from all other creatures. We share with animals knowledge of the physical world through our senses. However, we also share with angels knowledge of the spiritual world. Unlike the angels human spiritual knowledge is “discursive.” In other words, we…
Read MoreHuman Nature: Living a More Fully Human Life
Goodness, Truth & Beauty: the Goals of Human Life The natural moral law guides us to live lives that are true to our human nature, and it, therefore, orients us toward attaining what is truly good. Reason can conclude by examining human life that one of our most basic goals is to attain what is…
Read MoreAuthor Book Reading: 100 Ways John Paul II Changed the World
Author Patrick Novecosky reads from the chapter “Be Not Afraid” from his book 100 Ways John Paul II Changed the World. “Be not afraid” was one of the main themes of Pope John Paul II’s papacy, encouraging people to fearlessly open their hearts to Jesus Christ and allow Him to transform us. Novecosky…
Read MoreThe Role of Asceticism in Modern Spirituality
“Asceticism? Isn’t that like wearing hair shirts and whipping and punishing yourself? Does the Church still teach that?” Questions like this are common when you start using traditional terms for things like the Lenten sacrifice. I love questions like this because they offer a beautiful opportunity to help people rediscover the deeper meaning of ancient…
Read MoreDaily Reading: Show us, O Lord, your kindness
Today’s Readings for the Holy Mass Today’s readings in the Holy Mass pull together the readings from Sunday and from yesterday. In today’s first reading, the prophet Micah continues the theme of God shepherding His people, focusing this time on God’s love and forgiveness. The psalm continues the theme of love and forgiveness, proclaiming, Restore…
Read MoreLean Into Peace (Video)
Peace is not weakness, but strength that comes from trusting God. Lean into the Fruit of the Holy Spirit of Peace by increasing your trust. Read the complete reflection here.
Read MoreLean Into Self Control
The lack of self-control has been in the news. Riots in the street because a sports team lost (or won) the championship. More riots because a court case didn’t go the expected direction. Road Rage Social media nastiness Ridicule that has replaced intellectual debate in the public square It seems our culture no longer values…
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