U.S. Catholic
June 2006
Volume 71; Number 6
cover story
The parent trap: How to break the grip of an on-demand culture
When you find yourself going into debt for your kid’s birthday party, something’s gotten out of whack, says family therapist William Doherty. In Expert Witness he helps parents say no to the ever-growing demands of consumer culture on family life.
features
Go in peace: Rituals for the dying
Rich though the Catholic funeral tradition is, explains Joyce Rupp, O.S.M., the dying and those who walk with them often need a more personal touch.
I should’ve told you so
Conventional wisdom may counsel holding your tongue when you disapprove of a son or daughter’s choice of mate, but Kathy Beirne argues that sometimes it’s better to speak your peace—though maybe before being invited to chime in during the service.
Dynamic duo
Pat and Patty may not sound like names of a Catholic power-couple, but the founders of the Christian Family Movement, Pat and Patty Crowley, are just that for Paul Leingang. In Wise Guides he explains how their bold witness keeps him inspired today.
essays/opinion
Off to a bad start
It’s certainly a little troubling to recognize the lingering effects of original sin in yourself, confesses Michael J. Daley, but when it shows up in your little angel during an innocent game of Candyland, it kind of freaks you out.
How much help is a helping hand?
In her long relationship with one struggling family, Lynda McDonnell learned that good intentions are not enough to overcome the pernicious effects of poverty.
My dear diarist
The discovery of a long-dead brother’s personal journal reminds Sally Leighton that everyone has their secret struggles.
The red carpet treatment
It may not be the Oscars, says Paula Corso in Practicing Catholic, but a parish Corpus Christi procession certainly gives the eucharistic Jesus celebrity perks.
Move over, Disney World
Domino’s Pizza founder Thomas Monaghan is selling a major new Catholic attraction in Florida, but Examined Life author Bryan Cones isn’t buying it.
departments
Editors’ Note
You May Be Right: Letters
Signs of the Times: News
Catholic Tastes
Glad You Asked: "Can laypeople wear vestments at church?"
Under Review
Spirituality Café
Meditation: Wendy Wright
columns
Odds & Ends: Peter Gilmour
Vacation bible school goes Catholic
Margin Notes: Kevin Clarke
Flag daze
Testaments: Alice Camille
All fired up
Culture in Context: Patrick McCormick
Family night gets whacked