Despite the headlines of worker deaths, FIFA corruption and L.G.B.T. human rights violations (and yes, banned beer), billions around the world welcome the World Cup with relief.

David Henkin explores the history and development of the week as a unit of time—the only one that has no basis in astronomical rhythms.

I'd hear Mom groan, The Messiah, again?

How is a song used in 100 holiday ads somehow connected to Ukraine? It turns out every carol that we sing at Christmas has a story behind it, some inspiring, some strange.

Every movie is like a pilgrimage. It invites us into a journey with the promise of some holy destination, and a good one calls us to an appreciation of community.

The Rev. Thomas J. Shelley, who died on Monday, taught generations of priests, men and women religious and lay scholars the ins and outs of Catholic history.