Deacon Thomas L. McDonald

Thomas L. McDonald serves as a deacon in the Diocese of Trenton, where his ministries include catechesis and consolation. He writes at An Owl Among the Ruins and Weird Catholic.

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‘The Carpenter’s Son’ Reimagines the Boyhood of Christ — Badly

COMMENTARY: Marketed as a ‘horror movie,’ the film leans on fringe apocryphal tales but ends up revealing more about modern storytelling than ancient faith.

Deacon Thomas L. McDonald Commentaries November 20, 2025

A volunteer searches along the Guadalupe River near Ingram, Texas, on July 6, holding a Camp Mystic T-shirt and backpack. More than 160 people — including dozens of children from the flood-destroyed Christian camp — are still missing following the historic flash floods that swept through Central Texas over the Fourth of July weekend.

‘There Is No Pain Greater’: Grieving With the Parents of Lost Children

The only things in heaven made by human hands are the wounds of Christ.

Deacon Thomas L. McDonald Blogs July 9, 2025

Each day of the week has a traditional devotion, from the Resurrection on Sunday, to the souls in purgatory, the angels, St. Joseph, the Blessed Sacrament, the crucifixion of Our Lord, and Our Lady on Saturday.

7 Catholic Devotions to Change Your Week — and Your Life

Rooted in centuries of Catholic tradition, these daily devotions offer a practical way to sanctify time and live your faith more intentionally all week long.

Deacon Thomas L. McDonald Blogs June 26, 2025