The title “father” as applied to priests in the Catholic Church has both historical and theological significance. It reflects the role of priests as spiritual leaders and caretakers of their communities, analogous to a biological father’s role in a family. The use of this title, however, also raises questions about …

By Fr. David Endres Holy water is a common sacramental used by Catholics—to sign themselves before entering church, to sanctify the home, and to call forth divine protection. Ordinary water becomes holy water when it is blessed by a priest or deacon, who calls down the Holy Spirit to sanctify …