Eucharist or eucharist? This week Tom McMahon explores the evolution of the Eucharist (and other Sacraments) in the ritual life of the Church. His series of reflections is essentially asking if we've somehow gotten ourselves a long way removed from the original meaning in these important religious rituals. <more>

The tension between Religion and Art — Part II… In this commentary Peregrinus examines some of the tensions down through the ages between religion and art. He suggests this is a necessary preliminary to what he'll be discussing next week regarding the continuing tension in our own times between art and religion." <more>

Ecce Homo… Today Dr Andrew Kania explores the balance we need between body and soul for human wholeness and completeness. And viewing Jesus Christ as the model for that balance and completeness. <more>

An argument for greater democracy in the Church… Catholica Australia is pleased to be able to publish the text of an extensive series of lectures by Dr Leonard Swidler, Professor of Catholic Thought and Interreligious Dialogue at Temple University, Philadelphia. In this series of commentaries Professor Swidleer examines the place of democracy in the Catholic Church as a matter of theological principle, as a matter of simple justice, and as a mechanism for protection against the sort of scandals stemming from the abuse of power exercised by ecclesial leaders which we have witnessed in recent times. Today's commentary provides background and an introduction to the series. <more>

The two books of God… In this reflection from the end of Chapter Two of his new book Bishop Geoffrey Robinson invites us to reflect on the two sources of our knowledge of God: the bible and the world around us and within us. He says: "They have sometimes been called 'the two books of God'. Human beings have had a significant role in the writing of both books, but both can also provide us with insights into divine wisdom." We present this series of meditations in cooperation with Bishop Robinson and his publisher, John Garratt Publishing. <Read Bishop Robinson's reflection>

Fr Farzenheim returns with a wing and a prayer… Father Farzenheim has been on a long sabbatical in Rome. He returns today at his fiery best in his relentless quest to dig out and expose dissidents, liberals and backsliders. He has advice for the organisers of World Youth Day and an exciting new proposal harnessing the latest technologies to rid the Church of cafeteria Catholics and all the dreadful garbage that was unleashed by the Second Vatican Council. <more>