Fr. Charles Bouchard, OP

Fr. Charles Bouchard, OP, S.T.D., is senior director, theology and sponsorship at the Catholic Health Association of the United States (CHA). He counsels and assists sponsors and members of Catholic healthcare organizations in carrying out their canonical responsibilities for the health ministry of the Catholic Church and provides guidance for CEOs and boards regarding the distinctive roles of sponsorship and governance. He also works with Church leaders and bishops at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and at the Holy See on a range of issues involving health care, social justice, public policy and the Church.

Videos

2 Oct • Feast of the Guardian Angels: Recognizing Divine Protection

Fr. Charlie explores the Feast of the Guardian Angels and the comforting idea of divine protection. Drawing a parallel to the "Cadejo" in the novel Solito, he discusses how different traditions have similar concepts of spiritual guardians. He encourages us to recognize and treasure these forms of divine assistance in our lives.

1 Oct • St. Therese of Lisieux: Finding God in the "Little Way"

Is your faith life too complicated? Fr. Charlie Bouchard reminds us of St. Therese of Lisieux's "Little Way," finding God in simple acts of love and sacrifice. Simplify your faith and draw closer to God.

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time | Seeing the Unseen: Encountering Christ in the Poor

Father Charlie Bouchard reflects on the Gospel story of Lazarus and the rich man, urging us to move beyond discomfort and see the poor as persons like ourselves. Drawing from a personal anecdote, he encourages viewers to establish relationships with those on the margins and recognize their shared humanity as children of God.

11 Sept • Going Beyond Justice, Moved by Others

Father Charlie Bouchard continues his reflection on St. Paul's letter to the Colossians, urging us to "put on" compassion, kindness, humility, and patience. Explore the call to go beyond ordinary justice, forgive others, and love our enemies, moved by grace and the example of others. Discover how these acts of generosity and mercy bind us together and foreshadow the reign of God.

10 Sept • Christ is All: Overcoming Division by Embracing God's Grace

Father Charlie reflects on Paul's letter to the Colossians, exploring the call to put to death old habits and embrace the new life won for us by Christ. Discover how to make room in your heart for God's grace and overcome division to love those around you. Learn about the transformative power of salvation and the invitation to live a life hidden with Christ in God.

Meals, from Fast Food to Eucharist | 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

In this Know Before You Go video, Fr. Charlie Bouchard explores the deeper meaning of meals in scripture, moving beyond simple etiquette to understand sacramental dining. This Sunday reflection on the 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time examines three types of meals: functional, social, and sacramental - focusing on how Jesus's four meals with the Pharisees in Luke's Gospel reveal the transformative power of humble encounter. Learn why humility, not humiliation, is essential for authentic spiritual transformation and how every Eucharist calls us to "come as you are" while leaving pretense behind.