The sign of Christian Hope is the Resurrection of Jesus. It is His victory over sin and death. It is the pledge and promise that, if we follow Him faithfully in carrying the Cross, we can also rise with Him to new life. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, “We can therefore hope in the glory of heaven promised by God to those who love Him and do His will.” (CCC. no. 1821) Hope is that Theological Virtue by which we desire the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life as our happiness, placing our trust in Christ’s promises…”  (CCC. no. 1817)

Parents will do their best to shield their children from internet pornography. They might secure software that blocks these sites. Perhaps the use of accountability services (e.g. Covenant Eyes) will help support efforts to foster sobriety in this regard.

Part of the defense against these hurtful enticements is an interior strengthening of virtues that helps the person resist temptations against holy purity. Strengthening chastity and fortifying ourselves and our children in the supernatural life can be a powerful defense against these temptations. Frequent Confession and worthy Holy Communions are also powerful fortifications against sin.

When I was a young student it seemed that “curiosity” was promoted as a good thing. Maybe we called it “healthy” curiosity. At the same time we knew that “curiosity killed the cat.” the message was clear enough. Be careful where you stick your nose!

With the explosion of data available on our hand-helds, or by asking “Siri, Alexa, Assistant, or Cortana,” we may find ourselves or others constantly looking up facts. A short time back we amused ourselves in pursuit of “trivia;” and for generations we may have enjoyed collecting baseball or other sports stats. It seems harmless enough.

When the Most Holy Eucharist is exposed at the time of Benediction, we recite the Divine Praises. They are acclamations of adoration before the Real Presence of Christ on the altar. There we announce, “Blessed be Jesus Christ, True God and True Man.” In the Latin, we say “Perfectus Deo. Perfectus Homo!”

It is great to read the New Testament. Try reading one chapter a day – from the beginning of St Matthew’s Gospel, through the last of the Book of Revelation. It will take you about 7-8 months, and will give you a new appreciation of the Word of God in its continuity. Then, begin over. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you, and each time you read it, you will find something new.