Almost ten years ago to the day, Pope Francis told young people his hopes for World Youth Day. The sound bite people remember… “make a mess”.
Today many from both the left and the right are saying he himself has made a mess.
Month: July 2023
When Did Christians Become Soldiers?
For three centuries early Christians could not conceive of themselves as soldiers. What happened?
Yes! I Actually Attended a Session of Vatican II
Freshly ordained in May, 1965, I was privileged to attend one of the final sessions of the Second Vatican Council. In this Mindwalk I share my journey into the church of Vatican II and Pope Francis.
How Have You Changed?
The question “How have you changed” is more complicated than you might realize!
Before you answer, listen to this story.
Praying the Our Father With New Ears
I got hooked by Pope Francis Wednesday reflections on the Our Father. I am into my ninth decade of praying it. I have read many thoughtful commentaries. Yet the Holy Father is helping me pray the Our Father anew.
Are We a “Listening” Community?
Hearing is the simple physiological act of hearing sounds. Listening means paying attention to sound, hearing something with thoughtful attention, and giving consideration.
Be Honest! Do We Prefer To Serve the “Good Poor”
Who do I prefer? When
I am honest with myself, I realize I prefer to serve. those whose poverty I understand.
Are there conditions on who we serve? – Do we feel good serving the “good: the “good poor”?
Do These Images Speak To Polarization Today?
Two images, in particular, remind me of the limitations of what I see.
They are helping me be more humble when I think of my conversations with those who do not view things the way I do.
As certain as I am of what I believe in, what I see is not the whole story.
Have You Read the Declaration of Independence Recently?
I try to read the declaration of independence each year. This year I got distracted by the thought of Jesus’ “declaration of DE-pendence”
Is July 4 a dangerous memory?
Americans see Independence Day as one of the three significant holidays of the summer.
Are you aware of the biblical roots of our declaration of independence?
Is Exodus a dangerous memory?
Rom 16, 13 reads: "Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord; and greet his mother—a mother to me also." If this…
Have a blessed Holy Week!
I have never thought about the people that were named in the Gospels. I would agree that they may be…
Generally, I love the laconic nature of Mark's Gospel. The Passion narrative is very compelling in its starkness, with one…
Father John, Blessings to you as you step cautiously down that new path. Grace and Peace be with you!