As a special bonus for Columbus Day weekend, we’re making available here on our website a second article from the October issue of First Things . It’s called " When the Swallows Come Back to Capistrano: Catholic Culture in America ," an account of the curious Catholic situation in the nation these days.
Meanwhile, we’re off on Monday to hear Philip Jenkins give our annual Erasmus lecture here in New York. The author of such works as The Next Christendom 
Time is short, so I’ll be direct: FIRST THINGS needs you. And we need you by December 31 at 11:59 p.m., when the clock will strike zero. Give now at supportfirstthings.com.
First Things does not hesitate to call out what is bad. Today, there is much to call out. Yet our editors, authors, and readers like you share a greater purpose. And we are guided by a deeper, more enduring hope.
Your gift of $50, $100, or even $250 or more will bring this message of hope to many more people in the new year.
Make your gift now at supportfirstthings.com.
First Things needs you. I’m confident you’ll answer the call.
