I must admit to struggling with the magazine’s theme for this month. It’s not that it’s a bad theme; I just haven’t been feeling or acting very “young at heart” lately. I seem to be overthinking and worrying about everything. Life is often challenging, and not only do I have …

What is the best remedy for us when we find ourselves overwhelmed by sadness, despair, or hopelessness? We have all heard it said, “Laughter is the best medicine.” We know from experience that sharing a good laugh or simply a smile can serve as a healing balm and restorative remedy …

In key moments throughout my life, the Lord has not been subtle. For example, God called me in 2019 away from my job at a local network news affiliate to work for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. I did not seek the job, but it clearly seemed the next step for …

Pope Francis was an extraordinary shepherd. Amid rapidly changing times, and multiple crises and challenges, he was filled with God’s grace and led the Church and world toward greater compassion, conversation, and justice. Encouraging the world as he declared the Jubilee Year 2025 “Pilgrims of Hope,” Pope Francis said, “Even …

Our Editorial Director, Andrea Tornielli, explores how the words of Pope Leo XIV can be traced back to similar reflections of Joseph Ratzinger, before his election as Pope Benedict XVI. By Andrea Tornielli “Before being believers, we are called to be human.” This is one of the central passages of Pope …

Since the death of Pope Francis on April 21, I have found myself reflecting on his papal motto, “Miserando atque  eligendo,” which basically translates to “having mercy and choosing him.” Pope Francis first chose this motto when he was called to be a bishop in Argentina. He then chose to …

Our Editorial Director reflects on the Holy See’s intervention at the UN, drawing on the words of Pope Leo XIV, noting that concrete steps are urgently needed to protect civilians in armed conflicts and to disarm the world. By Andrea Tornielli “The Holy See considers it essential to put an …

From childhood, I felt called to be an artist. I wanted to make things—but not just any things. I wanted to create things that last, because I believed that the best art long outlives the artist. I believed that if the work of my hands didn’t matter, then surely I …

One of the things Pope Francis has said that I have always appreciated is, “God has a sense of humor.” That has certainly been evident throughout my life. There has often been my plan and God’s plan … with the latter always prevailing! I grew up the fourth of six …