A Buddhist becomes Catholic
The conversion story of Deena Bell of Springfield By ANDREW HANSEN Editor About one percent of Americans are Buddhists, so having a Buddhist convert to Catholicism is about as…
Read MoreNew Catholic loves being ‘surrounded by people who care’
The conversion story of Raymond Martin of Decatur By ANDREW HANSEN Editor DECATUR — The story of Raymond Martin of Decatur is proof sometimes God’s time is not always our…
Read MoreFamilies! Connect with God, have fun, and create memories all in one day
QUINCY — Families are invited to attend a grace-filled and fun-filled one-day experience all intended for them to reconnect with God. Mini Holy Family Fest takes place Saturday, March 2…
Read MoreWhy do I have to go to a priest for God to forgive my sins? Why can’t I just tell God directly?
By FATHER JOE RINGSpecial to Catholic Times One of Jesus’ key ministries was the forgiveness of sins, something He often associated with simultaneous miracles of physical healing. See Lk 5:17-26,…
Read MoreWhat should I do first before going to confession?
By FATHER BRIAN ALFORDSpecial to Catholic Times From my experience as a confessor and one who also goes to confession regularly, a good preparation before confession is the key to…
Read MoreA step-by-step guide on how to go to confession
1 PREPARATION: Before going to confession, take some time to prepare. Begin with prayer asking the Holy Spirit to shine His light into your heart. Ask that you can see…
Read More‘Burden lifted’ — how confession changed the direction of my life
By FATHER ROB JOHNSONSpecial to Catholic Times My sophomore year of college, a fraternity buddy invited me to a retreat, and I begrudgingly agreed to go. I’m really glad I…
Read MoreWomen of diocese invited to Lenten retreat
By DIANE SCHLINDWEINManaging Editor The Springfield Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (SDCCW) is sponsoring a Lenten retreat Feb. 27-28 at the Villa Maria Catholic Life Center, located at 1903 East…
Read MoreYouth and adults from diocese inspired by National Catholic Youth Conference
By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN Managing Editor INDIANAPOLIS — Dozens of high school students from across the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois, along with their adult chaperones, grew deeper in their…
Read MoreGod’s grace in struggling with bipolar
By MARLA BAKER Special to Catholic Times God blessed me with a loving husband and three wonderful children. He gifted me nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He has guided me…
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