Jeanie Hannaman

By Susan Ciancio, Catholic World Report - Feasts or solemnities that prompt us to reflect on the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary also serve as reminders of the sacredness of motherhood. As Catholics, we know that Mary, our immaculate spiritual mother, looks upon us with love, compassion, and a protective kindness, just as she looked upon her beloved Son. Her virtuous life and her yes to God illustrate how we too must say yes to Him.

By Rob Sexton, Catholic Exchange - Like many of Christ’s words, the Litany of Humility is hard. Many of us could save a good deal of time in therapy or spiritual direction just by reading it, not even praying it with intention... It is much more than a pious practice or a “good idea” recommended by countless saints. The Litany of Humility acts as a kind of spiritual MRI, diagnosing the areas of your life where pride and its many children are growing or hold sway. Sincerely implementing this litany is a quick but sure way to diagnose this chief vice without spending hours in mental prayer or trying to find a spiritual director. ....

By Phil Lawler, Catholic Culture - Summers are usually quiet around the Vatican. Most officials of the Roman Curia—like most other residents of Rome—leave the city for cooler vacation spots, leaving important policy decisions until the fall. This year, with a new Pontiff settling into his work, and the Catholic world anxiously waiting for indications of his plans, things seem even quieter than usual... But the summer days are already dwindling, the sun is setting earlier, and fall will soon be upon us. Rather than trying to read deep meanings into small papal gestures, and anticipate what Pope Leo could do, we might consider the questions that will certainly confront him in September.