The Way of the Cross is the Way to Joy: Embracing Hardship as the Doorway to Resurrection Life

What the Parable of the Prodigal Son Teaches Us About Self-Care

My sweet big sister, Kitty Cleveland, invited me to be a guest on her "First Friday Friends" Morning Glory show to talk about God's lavish generosity and how he healed me of a lifelong "thorn in the flesh." Take a look!

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What Is an Evangelical or Charismatic Catholic? When people hear the word "Catholic," they often think of ancient rituals, solemn liturgies, and quiet reverence. While that’s certainly part of the beauty of Catholicism, there’s also a vibrant movement within the Church that looks and feels very different— Evangelical and Charismatic Catholicism . So what exactly does that mean? Evangelical Catholicism: A Heart for the Gospel Evangelical Catholics are deeply committed to sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ . The word evangelical comes from the Greek word euangelion, which means “gospel” or “good news.” Evangelical Catholics prioritize: The sacraments A personal relationship with Jesus Regular reading of Scripture Living out and sharing their faith A heart for missionary work and evangelization They don’t see faith as something passive or private—it’s something alive and worth proclaiming. That being said, Charismatic movements must be grounded in and obedient to the authority of the bishops and the Pope. Without this grounding, there’s a risk of slipping into individualism or doctrinal confusion, which is a concern that’s arisen historically with some charismatic expressions. Charismatic Catholicism: Empowered by the Holy Spirit Charismatic Catholics place a strong emphasis on the gifts of the Holy Spirit —including healing, prophecy, and speaking in tongues—as described in the New Testament (see 1 Corinthians 12). Their worship often includes: Contemporary music and expressive praise Prayer meetings or healing services A deep openness to the movement of the Holy Spirit Laying on of hands and spontaneous prayer Many people describe the Charismatic Renewal as a “personal Pentecost”—an experience of God’s love that brings renewal, joy, and boldness. The outward form of worship deeply affects the inward form of belief. If liturgy becomes too casual, theatrical, or focused on emotion, it can weaken reverence for the Real Presence in the Eucharist or the solemnity of the Mass. Still Fully Catholic It’s important to note: Evangelical and Charismatic Catholics are not outside the Church—they are fully Catholic . They attend Mass, receive the sacraments, and uphold Church teaching. They simply express their faith with a greater emphasis on personal encounter , joyful worship , and active evangelization . Catholic spirituality is not only about high-energy worship or speaking in tongues—it also includes fasting, silence, sacred art, Gregorian chant, and reverence for the saints. These elements nourish the soul just as deeply and are a rich inheritance not to be downplayed. A Bridge Between Traditions Interestingly, many Evangelical and Charismatic Catholics find common ground with Protestant brothers and sisters—especially those from Pentecostal or non-denominational backgrounds. They may even say things like, “I’m Catholic, but I worship like a Baptist.” In this way, they serve as a beautiful bridge between Christian traditions. While a personal relationship with Jesus and the experience of the Holy Spirit are important, Catholicism teaches that grace is most profoundly and reliably dispensed through the sacraments—especially the Eucharist. Faith must be rooted in the sacramental and liturgical life of the Church, not just in emotional experiences. Catholic worship is not merely a stylistic preference—it’s theologically rich and sacramentally oriented. While Protestant-style worship may feel vibrant, it risks overlooking the liturgical structure, sacred tradition, and Eucharistic centrality that define Catholic spirituality. Charismatic Catholicism can bridge the two. Final Thought Evangelical and Charismatic Catholics remind us that Catholicism is not just a religion—it’s a relationship with the living God . Rooted in tradition, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and passionate about the gospel, they bring a fresh fire to the timeless faith.

Forming Your Family in Faith

I was so moved by the readings at Church three consecutive days this week... In the Gospel on Sunday, Jesus tells Martha that Mary has chosen the better part to sit at his feet and be still. The following day, in the first reading, Moses says to the Israelites who were being pursued by the Egyptions, "The Lord himself will fight for you; you have only to keep still." It's such a clear call to be still and know who our God is! The following day, the reading quotes St. Paul saying, "Whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old has passed away; behold, the new has come." What does all of this tell us about the heart of Jesus? These three powerful scriptures—spoken by Jesus, Moses, and Paul—reveal something profoundly beautiful and consistent about the heart of Jesus: 1. His Heart Desires Relationship, Not Just Activity (Luke 10:38–42) “Mary has chosen the better part, and it will not be taken from her.” Jesus gently reminds Martha that her service, while good, is not the better part. The better part is found in stillness, in presence, in relationship. This tells us that Jesus doesn’t just want our work—He wants us. His heart is tender, inviting, and relational. He delights in those who choose to sit at His feet, to be with Him. 2. His Heart Is Protective and Strong, Even When We Are Still (Exodus 14:14) “The Lord himself will fight for you; you have only to keep still.” When the Israelites were terrified and trapped, God didn’t tell them to strategize or run harder—He told them to be still. Again, be still. They didn't need to do anything for Him to protect them. This reveals a heart that fights for His people, that defends, protects, and saves. Jesus doesn’t expect us to win our own battles; He wants us to trust that He will go before us. His heart is full of mercy and might, and He longs to carry our burdens. 3. His Heart Brings Restoration and New Life (2 Corinthians 5:17) “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” The heart of Jesus is not content to leave us broken or burdened. He transforms. He renews. He breathes life into what was dead. His heart is creative, restorative, and full of hope. In Him, there’s always a new beginning as we sit at his feet, sit in the stillness, and learn from Him. So what does this tell us about the heart of Jesus? The heart of Jesus is: Tender enough to invite us to rest in His presence Strong enough to fight on our behalf Powerful enough to transform us and make us new He doesn’t ask us to strive but to be still , to trust , and to abide . His love is not transactional—it’s relational, redemptive, and deeply personal. To be near Him is the “better part,” and His heart is always drawing us there.

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