Jeanie Hannaman

By Deacon Michel Bickerstaff, Integrated Catholic - Fasting and other forms of self-denial, as spiritual practices of materially subduing and controlling the physical appetites of the body, help us, by God’s grace, to enable the soul to more perfectly and freely pray.  This leads to a deeper union with God and thus we become better stewards of the gifts God has given to us, freeing us to more effectively care for our neighbor, especially those in greater need than we. Thus, we have the connection between prayer, fasting and almsgiving—the three pillars of Lent.

By Perry West, CNA - Fat Tuesday celebrations have included parades, carnivals, and parties. But have you ever heard of a pancake race? Olney, England, and Liberal, Kansas, will compete against each other March 5 in the International Pancake Race, a 415-yard competition involving pancakes, skillets, and some serious flipping skills... This is the 70th race since the friendly feud began in 1950. Last year, Liberal beat Olney with the victory of Gaby Covarrubias, a local parishioner at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church...