Soul

The problem of divine hiddenness

Our limited perspective leaves us poorly placed to decide how obvious God’s existence ought to be

Clement Harrold

On the pilgrim trail

The increasing numbers of walking pilgrims suggest that, beneath the blisters and aching feet, an older longing for our heavenly homeland still endures

What physical books teach us about the Eucharist

In an increasingly digital culture, the enduring appeal of real books reveals our desire to encounter what is tangible, lasting and true

‘All generations will call me blessed’

The examples of St Clare, St Maximilian Kolbe and other holy witnesses prepare us to celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Dear Father: ‘Should I find another confessor?’

A priest’s manner should not deter the faithful from Confession, but charity and reflection may help resolve the difficulty

The Herald Chaplain

‘His face was like the sun’s brightness’

In this homily on Matthew 17:1–13, the mystery of the Transfiguration reveals the glory of Christ and prepares the disciples for the scandal of the Cross.

St Leo the Great

When the Church wounds

Disillusionment with the institutional Church need not end in permanent bitterness, but can become a path towards forgiveness and renewed faith

‘The Cross is a signpost’

From St Matthew to St Dominic, this week’s readings in ‘Magnificat’ reveal how grace transforms detours, trials and unexpected choices

St John Henry Newman and the gorilla

Newman's critique of Victorian scientism now speaks with startling clarity to an age convinced that reason alone is enough

‘Happy the man whom you teach, O Lord’

From the mustard seed to the miracle of the loaves and fishes, this week’s ‘Magnificat’ invites us to see how lives rooted in prayer quietly bear abundant fruit