Jeanie Hannaman

By Phil Lawler, Catholic Culture - In this first month of his pontificate, Leo XIV has already provided us with many indications of what we can expect from his leadership. Those Catholics (and non-Catholics) who hoped for dramatic change will probably be disappointed. On balance, that’s a good thing... When the conclave began, some Catholics were hoping for one sort of dramatic change: a quick reversal of the radical policies wrought by Pope Francis. Others wanted the opposite: an acceleration down that same path of radical change.

By Joannie Watson, Integrated Catholic Life - In a Church known for its “smells and bells,” one of the best smells is sacred chrism. From the heads of little babies to the palms of new priests, this rich-smelling sacramental reminds us that a transformation has taken place... Throughout the Old Testament, there are three different groups that are anointed: priests, prophets, and kings. In addition to being a sign of abundance and joy (see Psalm 23:5), anointing was a sign of consecration. In Leviticus, Moses anoints the tabernacle, the altar, and the instruments in the tent of meeting, and also anoints his brother Aaron ....