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Photo of Nicole M. Perone

Nicole M. Perone

Nicole M. Perone is the national coordinator of ESTEEM (a leadership formation program for young adults on college and university campuses) as well as the chair of the board of the National Institute for Ministry with Young Adults. She resides in Connecticut with her husband, NCR digital editor John Grosso, their daughter and golden retriever.

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Pope Francis poses for a selfie during a pre-synod gathering of youth delegates, including NCR contributor Nicole M. Perone, far left, at the Pontifical International Maria Mater Ecclesiae College in Rome on March 19, 2018. The meeting was in preparation for the Synod of Bishops on young people, the faith and vocational discernment this October at the Vatican. (CNS/Vatican Media)

Pope Francis let young people lead — and amazing things happened

Not only did Pope Francis cherish being in the presence of young people, he used that paternal affection to amplify their capacities and contributions.

An animated graphic featured in the trailer for "Join or Die" (NCR screenshot/YouTube/Delevan Street Films)

'Join or Die' documentary insists community groups will save democracy

America's fate depends on engagement on a micro level, "Join or Die" insists, and committed community gatherings will save our democracy. At the core of this film is a very Catholic concept: commitment to the common good.

Jimmy Buffett performs at his sister's restaurant in Gulf Shores, Alabama, on June 30, 2010. (AP/Dave Martin, File)

The oft-missed Catholicism of Jimmy Buffett's music

Jimmy Buffett's music challenges us to set aside productivity in exchange for rest and renewal, and to see the beauty in the ordinary. His storytelling crafted a universe in which a slower pace becomes like a retreat.

Contributor Nicole M. Perone and her baby are pictured at church. Perone describes her parish as "committed to being truly and holistically pro-life and pro-family." As she writes, "What should be a happy testimony is the reality that this experience is all too rare." (Courtesy of Nicole M. Perone)

Why parish pro-life efforts need to focus closer to home

Forget the polarizing political posturing, says a new mother who wishes parishes would treat pregnant women and families as if all are truly welcome.

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