“Called to the Fullness of Dignity” is the theme of this year’s Religious Freedom Week of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Deacon Daniel Andrades looks forward to his ordination to the priesthood June 22 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland as a gift that will be reciprocated.

A national gathering will explore how Black Catholics can “embrace the gifts” they bring to the church, particularly to the Mass, according to organizers.

Spring offers a beautiful time for us to think of our next adventure, whatever that might be. May we be open to the newness of this season, stepping forward in faith and trusting that God is with us, every step of the way.

The need to see good fathers, have good fathers and be loved by good fathers is evident in a broken, hurting, often fatherless world.