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.

Learning about God’s callings in Scripture helps us see our life mission
Deacon Mike Cumnock
In the Scripture readings leading up to Lent, we learned a lot about people who heard and responded to “the call.” 
Witness of holy life is most important tool for evangelization
Father Erik Pohlmeier
As a diocesan priest who grew up in the shadow of a monastery, I am grateful for the ever present witness of those men dedicated to the work of God and the pursuit of holiness.
Jesus’ baptism allows us to reflect on own sacramental commitment
Deacon Chuck Ashburn
The Church has celebrated Jesus’ baptism since the second century. But it was not until recently that the celebration of his baptism became a separate liturgical event.
Prioritize Advent over the holiday season
Msgr. Richard Oswald
In most parishes it is customary for parish organizations and ministry groups to have a party during the month of December as Christmas approaches.
Humanae Vitae key to life-giving marriage
Father Erik Pohlmeier
July 25th marks the 40th anniversary of the encyclical Humanae Vitae.
Spiritual communion available when unable to receive Eucharist
Abbot Jerome Kodell, OSB
In his encyclical, "Ecclesia de Eucharistia" ("A Eucharistic Church"), in April 2003, Pope John Paul II encouraged th
Foundation of Catholic rituals, practices is found in Jewish tradition
Dr. Linda Webster
From the altar to the procession up the aisle, from the scriptural prayers of the liturgy to our belief in almighty God, we Catholics owe much to our Jewish brethren.
Role of deacons varies, but call to serve others is key to their ministry
Deacon John Marschewski
From the beginning, the diaconate were called to serve those in need. As we will hear in next Sunday’s first reading from Acts (Chapter 6), the original call for deacons occurred in the early stages of the Church.
Though many forms of prayer exist, most important is to just do it
Judy Hoelzeman
We Catholics pray in every way imaginable. Our prayer lives are as diverse as we are. Our different personalities, abilities and limits make our prayer intensely personal. We pray in so many ways, too, because we are influenced by two millennia of rich spirituality and holiness.
Great schism divided the Church but apostolic succession remains
Msgr. Richard Oswald
With the fall of the Roman Empire, Rome, the once mighty capitol faded, and the city of Constantinople ascended to become a great center of political and economic power. Eventually this political and economic divide would lead to a theological schism.

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