Jeanie Hannaman

By Francis X. Maier, First Things - The philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre once described humans as “dependent, rational animals,” arguing in his text that, as creatures, we need the virtues. This makes sense, because none of us is really “independent” or “self-sufficient.” Each of us is imperfect. We need others to complete and support us. They need us for the same reason. In the biblical worldview, this isn’t an accident. It’s a matter of God’s design. The virtues shape us in moral maturity and give us the ability to live fruitfully in community . . . all of which I remembered this past week when I received the following note from a veteran priest friend ....

By Ramon Antonio Vargas, Guardian - Longtime New Orleans Catholic priest Lawrence Hecker received a special honor from the Vatican nearly 25 years ago despite having confessed to molesting children. Then, for another two decades, church leaders in the city strategically shielded him from law enforcement and media exposure – while also providing him with financial support ranging from paid limousine rides and therapeutic massages to full retirement benefits, according to his own, previously unreported testimony.