Author Archives: Jim Fair

Ernie Banks died Friday night. For those of you not immersed in Chicago culture and who may not know of Ernie, he was Chicago’s most famous sports hero before Michael Jordan. He played baseball for the Chicago Cubs (please note … Continue reading →

Pope Francis got lots of attention by suggesting that Catholics shouldn’t breed like rabbits. Makes for a great headline, huh? But the reality of the comment was a bit more complicated. The media immediately assumed that he was saying that … Continue reading →

Since 1973, pro-life patriots have gathered in our nation’s capital to proclaim the dignity of human life. In recent years, small marches have sprung up in cities around the country. It is easy, in light of past experience, to predict … Continue reading →

Earlier this week, I read that a woman in Kansas City was ordained to the Catholic priesthood. I am skeptical. I’m a pretty observant guy and I’m certain that nothing has changed that would suddenly allow a woman to become … Continue reading →

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government … Continue reading →

Here in the Chicago suburban hamlet of Glen Ellyn, lights are coming off houses and brittle Christmas trees are blowing about the parkways.  The packages have been opened, unwanted gifts returned and folks are getting ready for New Year’s Eve. … Continue reading →

OK, most of you are getting ready for Christmas: decorations, gifts, food, church services, shopping, food, vacations, family events, food. (I really like the food part.) But some folks are getting ready for Ignition. Ignition is a New Year’s retreat … Continue reading →

In my parish, the organ goes silent during Advent. That’s the way the priests at St. John Vianney Parish, Northlake, Illinois, like it. And so it is fine with me. But some folks don’t approve. Frankly, for several years when … Continue reading →

Look at today’s news reports and you might have a feeling that America has never been more divided — not to mention the problems in the rest of the world.  But following is a proclamation from an American President who … Continue reading →

I hope I don’t shock too many of you with this confession – but when driving in the car I sometimes (not often) listen to “Lite Rock” music. Yes, I’m talking about that blah version of Elton John, Eagles, Doobie … Continue reading →