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

Why Did the Animals Fast?

For Wednesday, Feb 25, 2026, exploring a humorous yet profound detail from the Book of Jonah. When the King of Nineveh orders a fast, he demands that not only the people but even the beasts and animals wear sackcloth and ashes and abstain from food. Why would animals, who cannot sin, need to fast?

The Words God has Given Us

For Tuesday, Feb 24, 2026, breaking down the "economy" of the Lord’s Prayer, focusing on four essential words—Blessed, Will, Bread, and Forgiveness

The 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Cultivating Moral Maturity

Jesus in today's Gospel urges us to move beyond mere rule-following toward interior moral maturity. Jesus calls us to shape intentions, speech, and character — not just outward obedience — and Fr. Charlie also warns against the corrosive effects of outrage-driven media and coarse public discourse.

28 January • God's House of People & Aquinas's Theological House | Building Faith in Ordinary Time

God, instead of having David build Him a house of stone, promises to build David a "house of people" – the people of God, a place for grace and salvation. Rather than an ark or a physical house, St. Thomas Aquinas built an immense "theological house" – the Summa Theologica.

27 January • Bearing the Lord: From the Ark of the Covenant to Corpus Christi Processions

Father Charlie opens with a vivid memory of a Corpus Christi procession in Dubrovnik, Croatia, where he witnessed profound reverence as the Blessed Sacrament was carried through the city streets. This powerful experience serves as a lens through which he examines the day's First Reading, recounting David's careful and dignified procession with the Ark of the Covenant.

The Second Sunday in Ordinary Time: Give Witness—Your Testimony Matters

Reflecting on the readings for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Fr. Charlie explores the powerful examples of Mary Magdalene and John the Baptist—two figures whose personal testimony changed the course of history. He challenges us to overcome our shyness and fear of hypocrisy to speak openly about what we believe.