U.S. Catholic magazine
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Covering faith and justice since 1935.
If done with intention, digital art displays can highlight aspects of a church’s edifice that patrons never noticed before, allowing them to both experience it anew and, in some cases, embark on a unique spiritual journey.
Digital art installations bring new beauty to ancient churches
Church light shows utilize new tech and media to enhance appreciation of those spaces' artistic grandeur and spiritual significance.
uscatholic.org
November 26, 2025 at 3:00 PM
If done with intention, digital art displays can highlight aspects of a church’s edifice that patrons never noticed before, allowing them to both experience it anew and, in some cases, embark on a unique spiritual journey.
The dark, somber spirit of Advent in the Middle Ages speaks to those looking toward the birth of Christ in a season of hardship.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/not-feeling-jolly-this-advent-medieval-christians-didnt-either/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/not-feeling-jolly-this-advent-medieval-christians-didnt-either/
Not feeling jolly this Advent? Medieval Christians didn’t either.
The dark, somber spirit of Advent in the Middle Ages speaks to those looking toward the birth of Christ in a season of hardship.
uscatholic.org
November 25, 2025 at 3:00 PM
The dark, somber spirit of Advent in the Middle Ages speaks to those looking toward the birth of Christ in a season of hardship.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/not-feeling-jolly-this-advent-medieval-christians-didnt-either/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/not-feeling-jolly-this-advent-medieval-christians-didnt-either/
Many annulment cases are connected to domestic violence or other forms of abuse. And the process can be difficult and time consuming. Is it time for the church to reconsider how it looks at annulments—especially for those who have experienced abuse?
A harsh annulment process places heavy burdens on Catholics - U.S. Catholic
Is it time for the church to reconsider how it looks at annulments—especially for those who have experienced abuse?
uscatholic.org
November 24, 2025 at 9:32 PM
Many annulment cases are connected to domestic violence or other forms of abuse. And the process can be difficult and time consuming. Is it time for the church to reconsider how it looks at annulments—especially for those who have experienced abuse?
The transcendence of "Horses," released 50 years ago this month, set the stage for a religious exploration that can be seen throughout Smith’s career and life. Consisting of many unexpected twists and turns, Smith’s spiritual journey ended up in a surprising place.
Patti Smith: An unlikely religious poet
Musician, poet, and visual artist Patti Smith's rebellious challenge to God ended up opening a pathway to faith and spirituality.
uscatholic.org
November 24, 2025 at 3:00 PM
The transcendence of "Horses," released 50 years ago this month, set the stage for a religious exploration that can be seen throughout Smith’s career and life. Consisting of many unexpected twists and turns, Smith’s spiritual journey ended up in a surprising place.
May we follow Jesus and become a sign of peace in a world beset by hostilities, misunderstandings, and resentments.
Brandon Ambrosino reflects on the readings for the Feast of Christ the King.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/a-reflection-for-the-feast-of-christ-the-king-5/
Brandon Ambrosino reflects on the readings for the Feast of Christ the King.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/a-reflection-for-the-feast-of-christ-the-king-5/
A reflection for the Feast of Christ the King
Brandon Ambrosino offers a reflection for the Feast of Christ the King, November 23, 2025, year C in the Roman missal.
uscatholic.org
November 22, 2025 at 7:09 PM
May we follow Jesus and become a sign of peace in a world beset by hostilities, misunderstandings, and resentments.
Brandon Ambrosino reflects on the readings for the Feast of Christ the King.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/a-reflection-for-the-feast-of-christ-the-king-5/
Brandon Ambrosino reflects on the readings for the Feast of Christ the King.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/a-reflection-for-the-feast-of-christ-the-king-5/
The importance of giving thanks is central to our Catholic faith. We look at Jesus offering thanks to the Father, and follow his example. We see him disappointed with the nine lepers he cured who didn't go back to thank him.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202011/goodness-gracious-just-say-thanks/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202011/goodness-gracious-just-say-thanks/
How to model gratitude for your children
Teaching kids gratitude, even for the small pieces of life that are easy to take for granted, can strengthen family bonds.
uscatholic.org
November 21, 2025 at 5:00 PM
The importance of giving thanks is central to our Catholic faith. We look at Jesus offering thanks to the Father, and follow his example. We see him disappointed with the nine lepers he cured who didn't go back to thank him.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202011/goodness-gracious-just-say-thanks/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202011/goodness-gracious-just-say-thanks/
On Transgender Day of Remembrance, we honor the lives of those who died due to transphobia. The story of the bearded folk saint Wilgefortis offers a reminder of God's loving care for all people, including those who feel they do not fit into society’s gender expectations.
Wilgefortis, patron saint for the LGBTQ+ community
The story of this bearded woman martyr saint reminds us that queerness has always been part of Catholic history.
uscatholic.org
November 20, 2025 at 6:48 PM
On Transgender Day of Remembrance, we honor the lives of those who died due to transphobia. The story of the bearded folk saint Wilgefortis offers a reminder of God's loving care for all people, including those who feel they do not fit into society’s gender expectations.
The Parable of the Talents reminds us that everything we have comes from God, and we are to use these gifts wisely. For queer Catholics, being a good steward of our talents means being Christ’s hands in this world and showing every person struggling with self-hatred that God loves them.
Heed the parable of the talents and embrace your identity - U.S. Catholic
For queer Catholics, being a good steward of our talents means being Christ’s hands in the world and showing God’s love to every queer person struggling with self-hatred.
uscatholic.org
November 20, 2025 at 3:00 PM
The Parable of the Talents reminds us that everything we have comes from God, and we are to use these gifts wisely. For queer Catholics, being a good steward of our talents means being Christ’s hands in this world and showing every person struggling with self-hatred that God loves them.
Worship is not genuine if it is divorced from social justice. Leo writes that through the prophets, God denounces “the injustices committed against the weakest, and exhorts Israel to renew its worship from within, because one cannot pray and offer sacrifice while oppressing the weakest and poorest.”
In ‘Dilexi Te,’ Pope Leo connects liturgy with the work of justice
Pope Leo XIV's first apostolic exhortation is a timely reminder that Christ summons us to care for the poor.
uscatholic.org
November 19, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Worship is not genuine if it is divorced from social justice. Leo writes that through the prophets, God denounces “the injustices committed against the weakest, and exhorts Israel to renew its worship from within, because one cannot pray and offer sacrifice while oppressing the weakest and poorest.”
The history of the land is often the story of severed relationships. Land justice is about healing those broken ties and making amends.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/land-justice-is-a-chance-for-the-church-to-atone-for-past-sins/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/land-justice-is-a-chance-for-the-church-to-atone-for-past-sins/
Land justice is a chance for the church to atone for past sins
The history of the land is often the story of severed relationships. Land justice is about healing those broken ties and making amends.
uscatholic.org
November 19, 2025 at 5:00 PM
The history of the land is often the story of severed relationships. Land justice is about healing those broken ties and making amends.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/land-justice-is-a-chance-for-the-church-to-atone-for-past-sins/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/land-justice-is-a-chance-for-the-church-to-atone-for-past-sins/
There are many reasons why current xenophobic immigration policies spell trouble for the future—including concerns about the U.S. population.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/anti-immigration-policies-accelerate-u-s-population-loss/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/anti-immigration-policies-accelerate-u-s-population-loss/
Anti-immigration policies accelerate U.S. population loss
There are many reasons why current xenophobic immigration policies spell trouble for the future—including concerns about the U.S. population.
uscatholic.org
November 18, 2025 at 5:00 PM
There are many reasons why current xenophobic immigration policies spell trouble for the future—including concerns about the U.S. population.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/anti-immigration-policies-accelerate-u-s-population-loss/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/anti-immigration-policies-accelerate-u-s-population-loss/
What does being an "active Catholic" mean to you?
Should the church broaden its definition beyond liturgical participation?
How important is social justice work to Catholic identity?
Is there more to being Catholic than going to Mass? U.S. Catholic wants to know.
Should the church broaden its definition beyond liturgical participation?
How important is social justice work to Catholic identity?
Is there more to being Catholic than going to Mass? U.S. Catholic wants to know.
Is there more to being Catholic than going to Mass? - U.S. Catholic
Should the church broaden its definition of “active Catholics” beyond liturgical participation? Take our survey.
uscatholic.org
November 18, 2025 at 3:00 PM
What does being an "active Catholic" mean to you?
Should the church broaden its definition beyond liturgical participation?
How important is social justice work to Catholic identity?
Is there more to being Catholic than going to Mass? U.S. Catholic wants to know.
Should the church broaden its definition beyond liturgical participation?
How important is social justice work to Catholic identity?
Is there more to being Catholic than going to Mass? U.S. Catholic wants to know.
A just trade policy balances the responsibility to workers and industries alongside duties of solidarity and justice. Such a policy does not seek to exploit imbalances of wealth and power between nations.
Catholic teaching offers guidance on tariffs and trade policy
Just trade, as understood through the framework of Christian ethics, prioritizes workers’ dignity over economic gain.
uscatholic.org
November 17, 2025 at 9:47 PM
A just trade policy balances the responsibility to workers and industries alongside duties of solidarity and justice. Such a policy does not seek to exploit imbalances of wealth and power between nations.
It is not by entrenching ourselves in rehearsed testimonies and prepared defenses that we secure our lives, but by remaining open to the ever-renewed power of the word.
Michael Centore reflects on the readings for the thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time.
Michael Centore reflects on the readings for the thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time.
A reflection for the thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Michael Centore offers a reflection for the thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, November 16, 2025, year C in the Roman missal.
uscatholic.org
November 15, 2025 at 4:26 PM
It is not by entrenching ourselves in rehearsed testimonies and prepared defenses that we secure our lives, but by remaining open to the ever-renewed power of the word.
Michael Centore reflects on the readings for the thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time.
Michael Centore reflects on the readings for the thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time.
Historical connections between Jewish and Carmelite spiritualities offer blueprints for solidarity at times of hate.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202309/4-carmelite-saints-inspire-resistance-to-antisemitism/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202309/4-carmelite-saints-inspire-resistance-to-antisemitism/
4 Carmelite saints inspire resistance to antisemitism
Historical connections between Jewish and Carmelite spiritualities offer blueprints for solidarity at times of hate.
uscatholic.org
November 15, 2025 at 4:16 AM
Historical connections between Jewish and Carmelite spiritualities offer blueprints for solidarity at times of hate.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202309/4-carmelite-saints-inspire-resistance-to-antisemitism/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202309/4-carmelite-saints-inspire-resistance-to-antisemitism/
Separation of church and state is bigger than just another political or legal disagreement, says political philosopher Stephen Schneck. These are essential elements of our rights in this country. Eroding that wall of separation puts these rights at risk.
The danger of blurring the line between church and state
Separation of church and state isn't just a secular concept: it's also essential for protecting religious freedom.
uscatholic.org
November 14, 2025 at 5:59 PM
Separation of church and state is bigger than just another political or legal disagreement, says political philosopher Stephen Schneck. These are essential elements of our rights in this country. Eroding that wall of separation puts these rights at risk.
Wearing a brown scapular can deepen Catholics' devotion—as long as the practice is not approached superstitiously.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/what-is-a-scapular/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/what-is-a-scapular/
What is a scapular
Wearing a brown scapular can deepen Catholics' devotion to Mary—as long as the practice is not approached superstitiously.
uscatholic.org
November 14, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Wearing a brown scapular can deepen Catholics' devotion—as long as the practice is not approached superstitiously.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/what-is-a-scapular/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/what-is-a-scapular/
Rerum Novarum is widely regarded as the first major church document on economics and social justice. Among other things it calls for the right to private property; just pay and good working conditions for workers; and support for labor unions.
‘Rerum Novarum’ is still relevant to labor justice. Read it.
Pope Leo XIII's encyclical on capital and labor was promulgated over a century ago, but its precepts are still desperately needed.
uscatholic.org
November 13, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Rerum Novarum is widely regarded as the first major church document on economics and social justice. Among other things it calls for the right to private property; just pay and good working conditions for workers; and support for labor unions.
Misunderstandings about divorce and annulments cause a lot of pain, especially for abuse survivors. Listening to the stories of those who have gone through annulments can help foster a culture of mercy and understanding. And it may be time for the church to reconsider how it looks at annulments.
A harsh annulment process places heavy burdens on Catholics - U.S. Catholic
Is it time for the church to reconsider how it looks at annulments—especially for those who have experienced abuse?
uscatholic.org
November 12, 2025 at 8:54 PM
Misunderstandings about divorce and annulments cause a lot of pain, especially for abuse survivors. Listening to the stories of those who have gone through annulments can help foster a culture of mercy and understanding. And it may be time for the church to reconsider how it looks at annulments.
Our government is no longer in the business of enriching spirits. The seeds of public broadcasting’s downfall were there from the beginning, because congressional funding had to be reapproved in each federal budget.
PBS funding cuts take valuable resources from families
Public broadcasting has been an invaluable resource for many families seeking to offer their children meaningful entertainment.
uscatholic.org
November 12, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Our government is no longer in the business of enriching spirits. The seeds of public broadcasting’s downfall were there from the beginning, because congressional funding had to be reapproved in each federal budget.
Amy Ekeh, in the 40 reflections in her beautiful new book 'Stretch Out Your Hand,' offers ways to reflect on Jesus' healing miracles that get away from problematic interpretations.
November 12, 2025 at 2:29 PM
Amy Ekeh, in the 40 reflections in her beautiful new book 'Stretch Out Your Hand,' offers ways to reflect on Jesus' healing miracles that get away from problematic interpretations.
More reminds us that citizens who prize convenience over conscience are as responsible for the world’s injustice as our leaders are. “If we suffer our rulers to be wicked,” he wrote, “we make ourselves their accomplices.”
Thomas More’s life reminds us our first loyalty is to God
When faced with unjust laws, let Thomas More's example remind you to serve God over any earthly principality or power.
uscatholic.org
November 11, 2025 at 7:13 PM
More reminds us that citizens who prize convenience over conscience are as responsible for the world’s injustice as our leaders are. “If we suffer our rulers to be wicked,” he wrote, “we make ourselves their accomplices.”
The books U.S. Catholic writers have enjoyed this month include “The Just Love Story Bible” by theologian Jacqui Lewis—and “Brigid’s Mantle,” by Nancy Fitzgerald.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/what-were-reading-this-month-october-2025-2/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/what-were-reading-this-month-october-2025-2/
What we’re reading this month: November 2025
The books U.S. Catholic writers have enjoyed this month, including “The Just Love Story Bible” and “Brigid’s Mantle.”
uscatholic.org
November 11, 2025 at 7:00 PM
The books U.S. Catholic writers have enjoyed this month include “The Just Love Story Bible” by theologian Jacqui Lewis—and “Brigid’s Mantle,” by Nancy Fitzgerald.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/what-were-reading-this-month-october-2025-2/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/what-were-reading-this-month-october-2025-2/
We asked our readers about various issues related to migration. Of those who responded, 76% think the Catholic church doesn't talk enough about root causes of migration—such as violence and poverty.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/to-fix-our-immigration-system-promote-the-right-to-stay/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/to-fix-our-immigration-system-promote-the-right-to-stay/
Migration should be a choice, not a necessity
Yes, people have the right to migrate. But they also have the right to stay in their homes. Catholics should support both.
uscatholic.org
November 11, 2025 at 3:00 PM
We asked our readers about various issues related to migration. Of those who responded, 76% think the Catholic church doesn't talk enough about root causes of migration—such as violence and poverty.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/to-fix-our-immigration-system-promote-the-right-to-stay/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202511/to-fix-our-immigration-system-promote-the-right-to-stay/
These eight holy men from Catholic history challenge the assumption that masculinity must be defined by domination, exclusion, or rigidity.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202507/8-saintly-models-for-a-healthier-masculinity/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202507/8-saintly-models-for-a-healthier-masculinity/
8 saintly models for a healthier masculinity
These eight holy men from Catholic history model a healthy masculinity that isnn't defined by domination, exclusion, or rigidity.
uscatholic.org
November 10, 2025 at 5:00 PM
These eight holy men from Catholic history challenge the assumption that masculinity must be defined by domination, exclusion, or rigidity.
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202507/8-saintly-models-for-a-healthier-masculinity/
https://uscatholic.org/articles/202507/8-saintly-models-for-a-healthier-masculinity/