The wellness industry is redefining purity as a form of escapism from one’s own moral impurity. Diet has become a substitute for a genuine attempt to be a better person.

From 1989: A debate about the effectiveness and appropriateness of the R.C.I.A. in the life of the Catholic Church.

From Father Andrew Greeley in 1989: The R.C.I.A. has converted the sacramental experience into an obstacle course, a series of barriers to be surmounted, a list of tests to be passed.

Britney Spears recently wanted to get married in the Catholic Church. The controversy that followed shows us what we still need to learn about turning our churches into welcoming spaces.

“The general disposition of the church is one of hospitality, openness and welcome,” writes Archbishop John Wester. “Refusing to baptize children of same-sex couples is not in keeping with this outreach and I find it quite troubling.”

Thérèse of Lisieux and St. Ignatius helped draw me away from scrupulosity—and into accepting God’s love.