by Fr. Paul Sheller, OSB, Vocation Director, Conception Abbey 1. Cultivate Silence St. Benedict wrote, “Speaking and teaching are the master’s task; the disciple is to be silent and listen” (RB 6:8). Silence is the environment that allows you to listen to God’s voice and the voices of those around you properly. Many people are […]

“The difficulty of explaining ‘why I am a Catholic’ is that there are ten thousand reasons all amounting to one reason: that Catholicism is true.” – G.K. Chesterton Many of you know that I am a convert to the Catholic church. Why, you may wonder, would anyone, especially in the 21st century, join such an […]

There is a great deal of bad news about the state of the Catholic Church of late. We shouldn’t deny it or dismiss it; to do so would be foolish. We should have our eyes wide open about the reality of our situation. But amidst the destruction wrought by sin and the failings of men, […]

For centuries, the Catholic Church was the last bulwark standing against the tidal wave of secularism, atheism, and moral decay that was sweeping the world. As converts like G.K. Chesterton gave witness, the Catholic faith was a fighting faith—fighting against the destructive ideas and moral rot plaguing society. Yet, something happened. The Church suddenly faced […]

Whether it is exploring the splendor of a 13th century cathedral or one of the seven wonders of the world, many will agree that with these moments come a profound sense of God’s Presence. This same experience is one I came to know through a Catholic men’s schola called Floriani. After hearing much praise about […]

Spring in Oklahoma means storms—often violent, terrifying storms. Tornadoes, too, are not uncommmon this time of year, though, while some have struck only a few miles away, we have yet to experience one, thanks be to God. Such storms are frightening because of their intensity and potential for destruction, but also because of the sheer […]

It is the feast of Our Lady of Fatima, and I can’t think of a better day to announce the official launch of The Catholic Gentleman: Living Authentic Manhood Today. It’s dedicated to our Lady, after all. The book is available wherever books are sold, including Barnes & Noble, other online book sellers, and your […]

Watch any sporting event—from football to tennis to Mixed Martial Arts— and you will notice something significant: The inevitable presence of referees. Referees exist to enforce the rules of the game, for any sport worth watching has rules, and sometimes complex rules at that. Rules ensure fair play, but they also give the athletes boundaries […]