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​The Blue Angel Syndrome

From Web Exclusives

Many years ago, flipping through the channels, I came across an old black-and-white film, made in German with English subtitles. It was called Der blaue Engel—“The Blue Angel”—and I’ve never forgotten it since. Starring Marlene Dietrich and Emil Jannings, and directed by Josef von . . . . Continue Reading »

Patty Duke’s Unforgettable Life

From Web Exclusives

Looking back on her life, Patty Duke emphasized the importance of her faith, long-time husband, and reconciled family, saying that despite everything that had befallen her—abuse, several broken marriages, and a severe emotional illness—“I’ve been richly blessed. When I pray, I never ask for material things. I offer only prayers of gratitude.” Continue Reading »

Pius XII’s Duel with Hitler

From Web Exclusives

Pope vs. Hitler opens by asking whether Pius XII really was “Hitler’s Pope,” as John Cornwell notoriously alleged, or rather, as Riebling’s book maintains, Hitler’s implacable enemy. Cassel includes critics, and not just supporters, of Pius XII. But his film makes clear where the hard evidence lies. Continue Reading »

The Myth of the Moderate Catholic

From Web Exclusives

Any Catholic who rejects Catholic teaching, or who technically accepts it but minimizes it to the point of insignificance, is not a “moderate” Catholic but a dissenter, or one seeking approval from the world (a temptation Our Lord warns against)—and should be identified as such. Continue Reading »

Loving Our Enemies

From Web Exclusives

Even when our enemies are so corrupt and evil that there is no discernible sign of good in any of them, we can at least recognize that they are fellow human beings and children of God—however much they have violated His commands—and love and pray for them on that basis alone. Continue Reading »