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Published: May 27, 2020

Travis McAfee

Travis McAfee

Here are some of the stories you missed if you didn't read Arkansas Catholic's May 23 issue. Some of the stories and columns in Arkansas Catholic appear only in the print and free digital editions. To read what you're missing, subscribe today.

St. Peter’s Basilica reopens to the public after being closed for 10 weeks

VATICAN CITY -- Almost 10 weeks after St. Peter’s Basilica was closed to the public in cooperation with Italy’s COVID-19 lockdown measures, the faithful and tourists were allowed back in May 18.

We will miss you

St. Joseph Elementary School first grader Annabelle Loynachan was among the dozens of teachers, parents and children that took part in an end-of-the-school-year parade May 14 in Conway. (Photo)

Can a priest refuse Communion to gum-chewer?

Q. At Mass, a teenager seated near me was chewing gum. I was not overly alarmed because I have seen other people of all ages chew gum at Mass. But I was appalled when that young man came forward to receive holy Communion while still chewing his gum. Should the priest have refused to give him Communion? (Question Corner, Seeds of Faith)

Honoring athletes

Mount St. Mary Academy in Little Rock held a virtual athletic awards presentation May 11. Athletes from all 2019-2020 sports were recognized. Eleven general excellence and leadership awards were given to ... (Sports Briefs)

Closer look at freedom of the Church

It is a great hardship that currently most Catholics cannot attend Mass in person and receive the Eucharist. Some of my friends, frustrated with laws restricting public gatherings, have asked: Doesn’t the First Amendment protect religious freedom? Why don’t Church leaders file suit against these unconstitutional laws? (Columns)

Make sure you monitor mental health, too

Social distancing may be a good way to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but it also can wreak havoc on one’s mental health. Other life changes brought about by the coronavirus pandemic also can contribute to bouts of stress and anxiety, according to mental health professionals. (Guest Commentary)

Focus on what matters the most

Masses returned across the state last weekend, but they were very different than what we are used to. (Editorial)

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