I would not want to replace the reverence of the Mass with the endorphin-fueled exhilaration of a contra dance. But I do want us to find ways to extend an enthusiastic welcome to all who walk through our doors.

After a decade away from weekly Catholic worship, I realize that Roman Catholicism offers me the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of a poet.

Of course, the train ride was the highlight of his day. But I am hopeful he learned what it means to welcome the stranger.

Like Mary of Magdala, women who gave homilies had experienced a deep call and felt commissioned to share the good news.

Any hand stitcher will tell you: To embroider or crochet slowly mends the spirit, stitch by stitch.

Benedict learned from experience that pushing yourself too hard can be a road to spiritual ruin. There is a fine line between work that glorifies God and work that merely glorifies yourself.