The precious blood is an important part of Communion, but many people are afraid of the risk of cross-contamination from a shared chalice. Why shouldn’t we simply use separate cups? There are a few reasons.

Ted Kennedy Jr. on the importance of godparents: The need and desire for spiritual guidance, love, support and personal mentorship does not end when we reach adulthood.

Is it possible that people who say that the sacrament is more trouble than it is worth, that they do not need confession, have duped themselves?

The wellness industry is redefining purity as a form of escapism from one’s own moral impurity. Diet has become a substitute for a genuine attempt to be a better person.

From 1989: A debate about the effectiveness and appropriateness of the R.C.I.A. in the life of the Catholic Church.

From Father Andrew Greeley in 1989: The R.C.I.A. has converted the sacramental experience into an obstacle course, a series of barriers to be surmounted, a list of tests to be passed.