Anna Caruso

                In the early part of this century, British philosopher Bertrand Russell was a severe critic of religion in general and of Christianity in particular.  Much of his criticism was so obviously biased that it could not be taken seriously.  But we in the Church would do well to at least consider some of the things that he said.  For example, he made this comment concerning Christians: “A few of them may enrich a community, but a world composed entirely of them would die of boredom.”                 That criticism cannot be lightly cast […]

Millions of Americans let the internet “babysit” their children and grandchildren for large portions of the day.  Even at 10, 11, and 12 o’clock at night, long after cartoons and family shows have ended, an estimated 12 million children under age 10 are still watching and playing on the internet.  These hours have an enormous influence on children.  Studies have shown that the internet exercises the greatest formative influence on viewers who have not yet formed strong personal values.  As adults with Catholic principles we have some protection from media           influence, but the minds of the young are wide open.  […]

                 Over many years I have heard and read many definitions of faith.  One of my favorites goes like this: “Faith means betting your life on God.”                 To some people faith is a serious flaw in the fabric of religion.  The Philosopher Bertrand Russell once wrote:  “We may define faith as a firm belief in something for which there is no evidence.  When there is evidence, no one speaks of faith.  We do not speak of faith that two and two are four or that the earth is round.  We only speak […]

                 Some people ask why is prayer necessary at all?  God knows what we need; why tell Him?  He wants the best for every one of us; why should we request anything?                  Well, there are some things that God cannot give us.  We must keep in mind that Christian prayer does not mean persuading God to give us what we want.  That is pagan prayer.  Christian prayer means putting ourselves in the position where God can give us what He wants to have.  Giving, in this sense, is not a simple, one-sided […]

Have you ever noticed that prayer can appear to be a simple exercise for some people?  Not so for others.  Many people find it difficult, if not impossible, to pray.  Even those who have come to church for years may pray only rarely.  Often they have no sense of a personal participation or little awareness of the presence of God. Most Catholics would like to learn to pray more effectively.  They believe that God welcomes their prayer.  How does one talk to God?  Will my words be acceptable?  Do I sound like others I have heard pray? Prayer is not […]