Understanding Our Church

A Treasury of Arkansas Writers Discussing the Catholic Faith

Understanding Our Church

Explore this treasury of Arkansas writers discussing the Catholic faith on a wide variety of topics. Find what you're looking for by browsing the whole list or search by keyword or author. All articles have been reviewed for theological accuracy. Opinions expressed are those of the author.

We need to find new ways to reach out to young adults
Jeff Hines
Father Matt Garrison tells a story of a rainy night in Florence, Italy. The last train of the night was canceled, and he had no place to go. He took shelter in a nearby alcove. Soon, other travelers in the same predicament joined him there.
Reading Scripture critically can help us know God more powerfully
Edward C. Dodge
Among the most powerful of Pope Benedict’s reflections in his book “Jesus of Nazareth” is on the parable of the two sons, which taught me to read Scripture more critically while helping me to understand better God’s mercy, that faith is a relationship and to beware of legalism.
God’s surprises considered ‘sacred delights’ in the life of Christians
Deacon Mike Cumnock
When reading sacred Scripture, I am often amazed by the unexpected ways God finds to surprise us, call us and turn our expectations upside down. This has been true throughout our history as his people.
In Ordinary Time, our Savior can bring order to our chaotic lives
Father Erik Pohlmeier
After the long press of holiday season it makes sense to most people to think about this time of year as ordinary time. There are lots of comments about getting back to normal. People are now deciding whether to stick with New Year’s resolutions, to eat better and get more exercise.
Teachings of Islam, like Catholicism, are often misunderstood
Father Jerome Kodell, OSB
In our divided world, too many of the divisions are over religion, and very often not those caused by real differences of religious perspective and faith but by mistakes about the religion of the other.
As pure spiritual beings, angels do exist
Chris Thomas
“Angel of God, my Guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me here. Ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide.”
'Humanae Vitae' is based on natural law
Father Jason Tyler
July 25 marked the 50th anniversary of St. Paul VI’s encyclical, “Humanae Vitae” (“Of Human Life”). Although that anniversary might not have been noticed by many, it did offer a chance to consider anew the points made there and to assess what impact it may still have in 2018.
Virtue of temperance can offer life balance
Paula Standridge
“What the world needs now is love, sweet love. It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of.” These lyrics are from a popular song from way back in 1965.
Pray for dead to help them enter heaven
Kelli Nugent
When my cousin’s husband died a few years ago, I was present at the time of his death. I had arrived at the hospital with a friend, not knowing that this man was so close to death but was gravely ill.
Baptism calls all to Christian leadership
Judy Hoelzeman
In August, a Pennsylvania Grand Jury released a report addressing sexual abuse in several Pennsylvania dioceses.

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