The Deacon's Bench

And now for something completely different: a story about a priest who has a truly moving ministry: For many parishioners on a Sunday morning, once the closing hymn hits the second refrain, the race is on to get out the door and out the parking lot before a log jam of cars blocks the exits.…

Or at least, Hollywood can. Take a look at this astonishing demo reel — a virtual backlot. The world can be remade, with green screens and the right camera angles. H/T The Anchoress.

The dramatic image of Rio’s iconic statue of Christ crumbling under a tidal wave was evidently too much: Brazil’s Catholic Church is suing Hollywood for using unauthorized images of Rio’s famous giant Christ statue in its disaster movie blockbuster 2012, a lawyer involved in the case said on Wednesday. Rio de Janeiro’s archdiocese is demanding…

This catchy little tune is on mine, for the next several weeks. I practice it so often, my wife wanders around the house wearing earplugs. (One more reason why she really looks forward to Easter Sunday…)

That’s the first question asked in this innovative and inspiring video, that offers a rare glimpse at a group of cloistered nuns in Alaska. H/T The Catholic Anchor.

I’m surprised at how often requests come in to my parish to have a Catholic wedding outside of a Catholic church. (It’s almost never permitted, by the way.) Now, the church is making clear that the prohibition extends beyond catering halls and beaches, to cruise ships: It is not just sea, sun and celebrating the…

A couple weeks ago, the media world was reeling when CBS News began a round of layoffs that hit around 100 people. That was bad enough. This news is far, far worse: ABC News will sharply reduce its news-gathering staff through buyouts and possible layoffs, the company said on Tuesday. ABC employees said they expected…

Dear Lord, be with me now as I assist the priest in the Holy Eucharist. Let my mind and heart be focused upon the mystery of your Presence, the mystery of Your incredible self-gift. You want to share your body and blood with us all. help me to know your personal love for me as…

Those three little words are the inspiration behind Busted Halo’s cleverly conceived calendar for Lent. (Why should Advent be the only Church season with a calendar?) Each day on the calendar is equipped with three helpful tips to help you — you guessed it — fast, pray and give during this penitential season. One entry,…

The good people who are my landlords (overlords?) here at Beliefnet have decided to take a little survey — and they’d like your input. How often do you visit? What do you like or dislike about the site? Stuff like that. Want to make your voice heard? Here’s your chance. (And I know, from e-mails…

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