Each Lent begins with the same psalm at Ash Wednesday Mass: Psalm 51, known as the Miserere. Its first words are, “Have mercy on me, O Lord. … Read More
Author Archives: Patricia Kasten
Where did those words come from?
Question At Ash Wednesday, I was surprised to hear “Remember that you are dust and to dust you shall return.” I only remember, “Repent and believe in … Read More
Numbering on stone tablets
In the Gospel this weekend (Mt 5:17-37), Jesus mentions the Ten Commandments in his teaching. Have you ever looked at images of the Ten Commandments and wondered … Read More
Feeling left out at anniversary ceremony
Question We have a wedding anniversary celebration/ceremony each year at our parish. It’s a very nice thing, but for those of us who are single, it feels … Read More
A Catholic’s book of superheroes
We all love stories about superheroes. Who doesn’t like — and secretly want — special powers and abilities well beyond what mere mortals seem capable of doing? … Read More
Simeon was ready to say ‘good-bye’
That’s it; I’m ready to go.” This weekend, on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, we hear similar words from St. Simeon. He actually said, … Read More
Did the pope allow an idol in Colosseum?
Question Why did the Vatican allow the placement of a pagan idol — one that demanded child sacrifice — in the Colosseum? (Kewaunee) Answer Since Sept. 27, … Read More
Priests’ assignments
Question I had a conversation recently with my adult children. They asked how the distribution of priests works. Our son went to Marquette University (a Jesuit school). … Read More
Remembering the holy spouses
How often do you think of the marriage of Mary and Joseph? While it was never universally celebrated, for a long time parts of the church celebrated … Read More
Why we offer Masses for the dead
Question How, exactly, do our departed loved ones benefit from Masses offered for them or candles lit in their memory? (Appleton) Answer As Catholics, we believe the … Read More
