God does want us to be happy Pope Francis reminds us, “God loves the enjoyment felt by human beings.” In Sirach, we read, “My son, treat yourself well. Do not deprive yourself of a happy day.” (Sir 14:11-14). Critics depict the Church as a wet towel on the human passion (the eros). Pope Francis building [...]
Passionate Love Submitted by Deacon Jim Krupka Scripture writers did not hesitate to talk about passionate love. As inspired texts describe God's love for humanity, words of love and passion show what love, divine and human, is. In the words of Song of Songs, a groom says, "O most beautiful among women..." (Sg 1:8), and [...]
Marrying for Love Submitted by Deacon Jim Krupka In Pope Francis’ Apostolic Exhortation, Amoris Laetitia, On Love in the Family, he has a section entitled “Marrying for Love.” Saying “yes” to marriage is a commitment that ensures that love will endure and grow. It takes two. Both must be committed without reservation to this love. [...]
St. Paul and Pope Francis on Love in Daily Life (submitted by Deacon Jim Krupka) In his first letter to the Corinthians, St. Paul uses words to describe what love is and is not. Love is patient, kind and rejoices in right. Love bears, believes, hopes and endures all things. Love is not irritable, resentful, [...]
submitted by Deacon Jim Krupka I lifted this title from Pope Francis’ writings On Love in the Family. He uses those words to lead into a commentary on the part of St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians describing love in almost musical terms (1 Cor 13:4-7). This is a well-known passage describing the features [...]
By Deacon Jim Krupka In his message On Love in the Family, Pope Francis reflects on the challenges facing families today. He reminds us that there is "no stereotype of the ideal family." In his remarks on the experiences and challenges of families, the Pope conveys the dynamic character of family in modern society. On [...]
By Deacon Jim Krupka Jesus lived his human life in a modest family. For the most part, they did not stand out. They were not destitute nor affluent. As a carpenter’s family, they would have been in the mainstream of Mediterranean society. Most of us are in the same boat, taking on life day-by-day in [...]
By Deacon Jim Krupka I continue to draw from Pope Francis' teaching on love in the family. Moving from his message about marriage, he speaks of children as a source of joy. As husband and wife are the home's foundation, children are the "living stones" that build the structure. The world needs parents and children. [...]
By Deacon Jim Krupka This article begins a series drawing from Pope Francis’ message to the world on love in the family. Early as pope, Pope Francis called on the Church to reflect on the role and challenges of families in modern times. In 2014 and 2015, the Pope assembled two gatherings, called synods, focused [...]