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In the Pews

What makes a parish great?

What makes a parish perfect for you? Take our survey.

For most Catholics, their local parish is probably the center of their spiritual life. While most parishes likely have a few things in common—a pastor, Sunday Mass, maybe a great Lenten fish fry—there are also innumerable ways...

December 2024

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE CURRENT ISSUE

Mary everywhere

Marian apparitions spotlight Mary’s solidarity with the vulnerable.
BY ANNELISE JOLLEY

Joy to the world

Global Christmas traditions enrich celebrations—and parish communities—in the United States.
BY RHINA GUIDOS

Beyond dogma

To be truly universal, the Catholic faith must recognize the European roots of its dogmas and doctrines, says this Indian theologian.
AN INTERVIEW WITH JACOB PARAPPALLY, M.S.F.S.

Star light, star bright

Seek God in the wonders of the heavens.
BY RHONDA MISKA

Kermit’s carol

The iconic puppet has a surprising relevance—and message about conversion—for modern audiences.
BY JOHN CHRISTMAN

“In the Magnificat, when Mary sings of upheaval and the powerful being dethroned, her message is not just spiritual or metaphorical. It’s pretty incendiary.”

Kelley Nikondeha