Introduction Thank you, President Garvey, Judge Starr, and Dr. Farr. My warmest thanks to all who have organized this summit on religious freedom in these days just prior to the visit of Pope Francis to the United States. Speaking of Pope Francis, let me begin these reflections on religious liberty as a cornerstone of human...Read More

We gather this afternoon with joy as a family of faith to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the canonization of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Let me begin by offering my warm greetings and deep appreciation to the congregational leaders who form The Sisters of Charity Federation as we celebrate the Vincentian Charism of Charity reflected...Read More

Words of Welcome Every day we pray the Our Father and the Hail Mary. We pray these prayers as children of our loving Father, adopted through Baptism. By baptism we are the brothers and sisters of Christ. And thus we also invoke the holy name of Mary for we are her spiritual sons and daughters....Read More

Introduction: Working Out I doubt you are interested in my workout routine so I will mention it only in passing as a way of getting into today’s Gospel. Most days I try to do between forty-five minutes and an hour on the elliptical. Elevating my heart rate for a sustained period of time is one...Read More

Introduction: Nova et Vetera In the years following the II Vatican Council, and in the teaching of successive Popes, the Church’s main focus has been on evangelization. This includes bringing the light and love of the Gospel to places where it has never been heard, to far-flung countries. It also includes re-igniting the flame of...Read More

Introduction: A Moment of Decision Years ago it was not uncommon for seminarians to begin their studies in high school. We used to call them “lifers” and I am among the last of the lifers. I entered high school seminary at the age of age of 14 in 1965. It was quite an adjustment. The...Read More

Introduction Well, here we are again, gathered for the Catholic Schools Convocation. Gracing us with their presence is Bishop Madden, a true friend of our schools, together with priests and religious women and men who lead and support Catholic schools in so many ways. I am delighted to greet Dr. Edmondson, the Superintendent of Catholic...Read More

Aug. 15 marked the 225th anniversary of the consecration of the first bishop of Baltimore and the first Catholic bishop of the United States, John Carroll. We owe much to Archbishop Carroll, whose consecration occurred a full nine months after he was appointed bishop of Baltimore. The ceremony took place in the chapel of the...Read More