A few weeks ago I became very upset about some events that were happening in our country. Apparently, I was not the only one who was upset. From the news on television I learned that town hall meetings were taking place across our country, at times drawing large crowds. Many citizens thought that by making their thoughts known, this might help to improve our society.
Faith & Thought
Abundance of Graces: Healing Through Faith and Resilience
Mark Joseph Williams’ book “Torrent of Grace” (Orbis, 2024) is something special — very special!
The Journey of Faith: Finding Strength in Witness & Word
Recently, I have been strolling down memory lane and reflecting on attitudes I had while in grammar school, in high school, and even as a young priest.
Pope Francis’ Vision: Love as The Foundation of Personhood
From the time that he became pope, I have found Francis’ statements and writing very inspiring. I was also inspired by St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict, but Pope Francis, for me, has been special. I have enjoyed that special relationship throughout his pontificate.
Some Profound Insights of The Pope’s Latest Encyclical
I do not know how I missed the news that Pope Francis issued an encyclical at the end of the Synod. I try to keep up to date on what is happening in the Church, but somehow, I missed the news about the encyclical, which has the wonderful title “He Loved Us” (“Dilexit Nos”). As soon as I discovered that the encyclical had been published, I obtained a copy.
Creating a Culture Through Continuous Learning
Anyone who reads this column regularly knows that I think we live in a very secular culture. This presents problems to anyone who professes religious faith.
Overcoming ‘Acedia’ in Our Modern Lives
I think that the first time I encountered the word “acedia” was when I first read Josef Pieper’s classic “Leisure the Basis of Culture.” That was back in the 1950s. I recall that I was confused by his remarks. Now, more than 70 years later, I think I understand Pieper’s comments about acedia and I suspect his remarks may have a special importance today. I am wondering if acedia is widespread in contemporary American culture. Pieper wrote the following about acedia:
Intellectual Conversions Through Catholic Eyes
I had a strange but ultimately delightful experience in reading James Keane’s new book “Reading Culture through Catholic Eyes: 50 Writers, Thinkers & Firebrands Who Challenge Us & Change Us” (New York: Orbis, 2024, 2010 pp., $25.00).
A Who’s Who in Catholic Circles in the 20th Century
A few weeks ago I saw an ad for a new book and as soon as I read the ad I knew that I had to get the book and read it. The book was written by James T. Keane, a senior editor at the Jesuit magazine America. Its title is “Reading Culture Through Catholic Eyes: 50 Writers, Thinkers & Firebrands Who Challenge & Change Us” (New York: Orbis Books, 2024, 200 pp., $25.00).
Insights From an Enjoyable Interview With a Friend
A few months ago, I received a phone call from a friend who is pursuing a master’s degree at a local university. An assignment was given in one of her classes, and each student had to interview someone about the process of aging. My friend asked me to be the subject of her interview.