Holy Cross Fr. Theodore Martin “Ted” Hesburgh, former Notre Dame president, died last night. He was 97. Arthur Jones says Hesburgh's death closes the door on the American Catholic era.
This is very interesting. Plan on spending some time on this page: The religious states of America, in 22 maps
African bishops aim for observer status at African Union
Commentary: Married priests would be the wrong solution by Tina Beattie
Belfast -- A Catholic priest was roundly mocked for saying yoga could lead to devil worship. But at least he recognised the spirituality at its core, says practising yogi Malachi O'Doherty.
Novel tackles Catholic sex-abuse scandal A History of Loneliness, by John Boyne
More on scandel unfolding in Oslo: Bishop of Oslo accused in £4m fraud investigation
On the Contemplate This blog, Sr. Helen Maher Garvey writes about Returning: “Return to me with all your heart. Don’t let fear keep us apart.”
News you need for Lent: Friday Fish Fries in Delware and Friday Fish Fries around St. Louis
Commentary: '50 Shades of Grey' is about abuse of power, not sex writes Robert M. Hoatson
Looking for ways to contribute to churching thinking on family life? A couple alternatives: National clergy group launches its own synod questionnaire and Strong Catholic Families offers simplified survey for family synod
Looking for a little inspiration to begin your day? NCR's sister publication, Celebration, gives you two options, both based on the Scripture readings of the day:
Pencil Preaching is blog in which Celebration editor Pat Marrin combines Scripture and sketching to reflect on the Word.
Daily Bread is a series of short reflections written by four authors who meet regularly to share the readings. Daily Bread is intended to help daily preachers and others who pray from the assigned Scriptures each day to orient themselves to the Living Word addressed to the church in the world. It's a great way to begin the day.