Catholic Journey Today Faith & Current Events

A New Chapter Begins: Introducing Pope Leo XIV

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On May 8, 2025, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago was elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American pope in history. A former missionary in Peru and seasoned Vatican official, Leo XIV brings a global perspective rooted in pastoral care and administrative wisdom. His choice of the name “Leo” evokes strength, tradition, and a commitment to guiding the Church through today’s challenges with courage and compassion. As the Church approaches the Jubilee Year 2025, Pope Leo XIV begins his pontificate as a true pilgrim of hope.

“Feed My Sheep”: On the Possibility of an American Pope and the Call to Courageous Witness

05-04-25

In a time when fear, division, and spectacle dominate both the world and the Church, the question of an American pope is no longer unthinkable—but only if he is first and foremost a courageous witness to Christ. The papacy is not about national identity or global power; it is about obedience to the Gospel, the humility to suffer, and the courage to feed Christ’s sheep. Drawing on Scripture and the early Church, the essay reminds us that true leadership in the Church begins with love, sacrifice, and surrender to God—not popularity or control. In the end, the only real qualification for the papacy is the willingness to follow Christ wherever He leads—even to the cross.

Blinded by the Spectacle: Why We Choose the Wrong Leaders — and How Faith Can Save Us

05-03-25

Why are we drawn to the dazzling over the dependable, the charismatic over the wise? From emperors crowned in chaos to influencers thriving on illusion, history reveals a troubling pattern: we mistake spectacle for substance. This essay unpacks the psychological, cultural, and spiritual forces that lead us to elevate the wrong leaders—and offers a bold alternative rooted in the servant-hearted leadership of Christ. In an age of noise, fear, and manufactured loyalty, it calls us back to the quiet strength of discernment, truth, and moral courage.

Bridge-Builder in a Polarized  Church:  The Unifying  Vision of Pope Francis

04-21-25

When Pope Francis greeted the world with a simple “Buonasera,” he revealed the kind of leader he would be: not a ruler above the people, but a pastor among them. In a time of deep division, he chose dialogue over dogma, tenderness over triumph, and mercy over judgment. He didn’t change Church doctrine, but he transformed its tone—reminding us that the mission of Christ begins at the margins. His legacy is one of bridges built, hearts softened, and a Church invited to follow Christ with humility, courage, and love.

Let the House Stand: A Catholic Reflection on Presidential Power and the Fragile State of U.S. Democracy

04-22-25

This essay explores how the growing concentration of presidential power in the United States threatens not only constitutional balance but the moral foundation of democracy itself. Drawing from Catholic social teaching, it warns that when laws are shaped by personal will instead of justice and dialogue, the common good is imperiled. Through biblical insight and papal wisdom, it challenges Catholics to rise above partisanship and reclaim virtue, truth, and accountability in public life. In a time of deep institutional fragility, it offers a call to action—and a hope that, with faith and courage, we can still help the house stand.

A House Divided by Truth: Reclaiming Reality, Restoring Unity

04-17-25

In an age where Americans no longer agree on basic facts, this article explores how the collapse of shared truth is unraveling civil discourse, deepening political division, and threatening democracy itself. Drawing on Catholic teaching and the words of Christ, it offers a hopeful path forward rooted in humility, reconciliation, and moral clarity. Practical steps are outlined to help individuals and communities rebuild trust and unity. The piece challenges readers to become peacemakers in a fractured world by anchoring themselves in truth and love.

When the Sanctuary is Shattered: Faith, Violence, and the Crisis of a Divided Church

04-08-2025

After the tragic murder of Fr. Arul Carasala in his Kansas rectory, the Church is left not only in mourning but also in deep reflection. This essay explores how political extremism, internal Church divisions, mental health, and the sanctity of religious spaces intersect in moments of crisis. It calls Catholics to resist ideological distortions of faith and to recommit to unity, compassion, and the healing power of the Cross.

The Golden Age or a Gilded Illusion? A Catholic Examination of America’s New Tariff Policy

04-02-2025

This essay critically examines the moral implications of America’s new tariff policy through the lens of Catholic social teaching. While acknowledging the desire to protect domestic jobs and industries, it warns that sweeping tariffs may cause greater harm—especially to the poor at home and abroad—by raising prices, disrupting global markets, and provoking retaliation. Drawing on principles like solidarity and subsidiarity, the essay calls for more just, targeted economic policies that prioritize human dignity and long-term justice over short-term gain. A truly “golden age,” it argues, must be measured not by economic nationalism, but by how well we serve the common good.

“Because You Might Be Next”: Why Due Process in Deportations Matters to the Catholic Conscience

03-27-25

This article argues that due process in deportations is not only a constitutional right but a moral imperative rooted in Catholic teaching. It warns against the use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport individuals—often without hearings or legal representation—highlighting how abandoning due process for one group threatens justice for all. The piece urges Catholics to see this not as a partisan issue but a matter of human dignity, grounded in the Gospel call to defend the vulnerable.

From Rome to Washington: What History Teaches Us About Government Size

03-22-25

Balancing government power with moral responsibility is a question as old as civilization. This essay explores what history—from ancient Rome to industrialized Europe—teaches us about the risks of both excessive control and total withdrawal. Grounded in Catholic social teaching, it highlights the principles of subsidiarity and the common good as guides for modern governance. In today’s debates, the Church calls us to seek not big or small government, but one that serves justice, protects the vulnerable, and upholds human dignity.

Echo Chambers of Anger: How Hate Finds a Voice, and Love Gets Silenced

03-19-25

Hate spreads effortlessly, fueled by echo chambers, profit-driven media, and our own fallen nature, while love demands patience, humility, and sacrifice. This article uncovers why anger is amplified and compassion is suppressed, revealing how outrage drives engagement while love often goes unnoticed. Yet, as followers of Christ, we are called to resist this cycle, choosing reconciliation over division and grace over hostility. By guarding our words, engaging with humility, and boldly living out radical love, we become true witnesses of the Gospel. In a culture that rewards conflict, the greatest act of defiance is to let love—not hate—have the final word.

When We Point Fingers at the Church, What Do We Miss in Ourselves?

03-18-25

This reflection challenges readers to move beyond criticizing hypocrisy in the Church and instead examine their own hearts. Drawing on powerful Lenten readings, it reminds us that Jesus’ call to repentance is personal, not just institutional. True renewal begins not with finger-pointing, but with humility, honest self-examination, and a willingness to be changed by grace. Lent is a time not to condemn others, but to pray, “Lord, change my heart.”

The New DOGEma: Catholic Insights on Musk’s Government Efficiency Crusade

03-15-25

This article examines Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) through the lens of Catholic social teaching, particularly the principles of subsidiarity, the common good, and human dignity. While DOGE aims to streamline government through AI-driven automation and decentralization, the article questions whether efficiency alone can serve justice—or if it risks concentrating power under an unaccountable technocracy. It explores potential dangers, such as the exclusion of the vulnerable, corporate overreach, and ethical concerns surrounding algorithmic decision-making. 

Faith, Country, and the Fine Line Between Patriotism and Nationalism

03-12-25

While patriotism strengthens a nation through faith and justice, nationalism distorts love of country into an exclusionary and often dangerous ideology. Historical examples, such as World War I, Nazi Germany, and the Rwandan Genocide, reveal how nationalism leads to conflict, isolation, and human suffering. This article urges Catholics to embrace an authentic patriotism that reflects Christian values, prioritizing justice, compassion, and the common good over national superiority.

To Tariff or Not to Tariff: A Catholic Perspective on Trade and Economic Justice

03-08-25

Catholic social teaching urges us to evaluate trade policies, including tariffs, through the lens of justice, human dignity, and the common good. While tariffs can protect domestic industries and preserve jobs, they may also lead to higher consumer prices and economic isolation. The Church emphasizes that economic policies must prioritize the dignity of work, fair trade, and the needs of the poor, avoiding both exploitation and economic nationalism. Ultimately, trade decisions should foster global solidarity and ensure that economic systems serve people rather than profit alone.

Truth in an Age of Deception: A Catholic Response to Gaslighting in Society

03--05-25

In a society where misinformation and manipulation are increasingly common, Catholics are called to stand firmly in the truth. This article explores the dangers of gaslighting—distorting reality to control perception—and how it shapes political, social, and cultural discourse. Using the example of misleading narratives about Russia’s war in Ukraine, it highlights the consequences of accepting falsehoods and the need for moral clarity. Rooted in Scripture and Church teaching, the article urges Catholics to seek truth through prayer, reason, and discernment, resisting deception with courage and charity. True freedom is found in Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life.

Faith, Power, and Politics: The Unfinished Battle Over Catholic Integralism

03-02-25

Catholic integralism advocates for a state governed by Catholic moral principles, with civil authority subordinated to the Church. While historically prevalent, modern Church teaching—especially Dignitatis Humanae—emphasizes religious freedom and a proper distinction between Church and state. Integralism faces significant theological and practical challenges, particularly in pluralistic democracies like the U.S. The article concludes that the Church’s role is not to seek political dominance but to shape society through moral witness and evangelization, leaving the battle over Catholicism’s role in governance an unfinished one.

Blind Leading the Blind: The Crisis of Leadership and Moral Clarity

02-26-25

Many influential figures today stir emotions but lack wisdom, integrity, and moral clarity, contributing to the erosion of Christian values. In a world where leadership is often confused with popularity and power, we must ask ourselves whether we are following true leaders or merely the blind leading the blind, as Jesus warned in Luke 6:39. True leadership, as modeled by Christ, is rooted in humility, truth, and service, requiring discernment to recognize and follow. By seeking wisdom, measuring leaders against Christ’s example, and committing to personal holiness, we can become the kind of leaders who guide others toward the light rather than into darkness.

The Catholic Understanding of Freedom in a Confused World

02-21-25

Freedom is often misunderstood as the ability to do whatever we want, but the Catholic perspective reveals that true freedom is choosing what is good, true, and beautiful. Rather than being enslaved by selfish desires, sin, or fleeting pleasures, real freedom comes from aligning our will with God’s truth. This article explores how moral law, virtue, and surrender to Christ do not restrict us but actually liberate us to live with purpose and joy. By cultivating virtue, trusting in God, and embracing His plan, we discover that the greatest freedom is not found in living for ourselves, but in living for Him.

The Common Good: A Catholic Perspective on Justice and Human Flourishing

02-19-2025

The article explores the Catholic understanding of the common good as a just society where all people, especially the vulnerable, can thrive spiritually, morally, and materially. It highlights three key components: respect for human dignity, societal well-being, and peace, urging individuals and institutions to prioritize justice over self-interest. The text warns against political misuse of the term and emphasizes practical ways to foster it through virtue, advocacy, and systemic reform. It also calls for global responsibility in economic justice, environmental care, and support for the marginalized. Ultimately, it presents the common good as a moral calling, guiding Catholics toward a society rooted in truth, justice, and love.

Truth, Freedom, and Responsibility: A Catholic Perspective on Speech in Today’s World

02-18-2025

In an era of instant communication, the power of words has never been greater—but neither has the potential for harm. This article explores the Catholic perspective on freedom of speech, fake news, and hate speech, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with the right to express oneself. Rooted in Scripture and Catholic social teaching, it examines how misinformation and divisive rhetoric threaten truth, trust, and human dignity. With practical steps and a call to integrity, it encourages believers to engage in conversations that reflect the love of Christ and promote justice in the world.

Radical Mercy in an Unforgiving World

02-17-2025

In a world consumed by outrage and retribution, Radical Mercy in an Unforgiving World challenges us to embrace the countercultural power of forgiveness. Drawing from biblical examples like David sparing King Saul and modern stories like Corrie ten Boom’s extraordinary act of mercy, the article illustrates that true strength lies in restraint, not retaliation. It explores the balance between justice and mercy, emphasizing that forgiveness does not mean enabling harm but rather breaking the cycle of resentment. 