via the Vatican: The tree and Nativity display are two signs that continue to charm young and old. The tree, with its lights, reminds us of Jesus who comes to illuminate our darkness, our existence often closed up in the shadow of sin, fear and pain. And it suggests to us a further reflection: like… Read More Roots and Contemplation: Pope Francis on the Lessons of the Christmas Tree and Nativity Scene

Christopher White writes: Ukraine’s foreign minister on Dec. 9 said that the Holy See cannot call on both Russia and Ukraine to bring about peace and that if the Vatican wants to play a role in an eventual peace negotiation, it must be willing to “call a spade a spade” and put the responsibility squarely… Read More Pope Francis Must Offer Greater Clarity on Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

Mike Jordan Laskey writes: As far back as Joe LaHood can remember, there were young people with developmental disabilities at his home. His mother, Cubby, had wanted to stay home with Joe when he was born, and she had experience working with kids with disabilities. So, she started caring for one child at their house… Read More Inclusion and Hospitality at St. Joseph’s House

In an interview with Interfaith America’s Mary Ellen Giess, millennial Catholic Chris Crawford says: The way I approach democracy stems from the way I approach human dignity in general.  My public engagement is rooted in my Catholic faith and the belief in the dignity of every person and that every person is made in the… Read More Why Catholics and Other People of Faith Should Defend Democracy

Former presidential speechwriter and Washington Post columnist Michael Gerson died last week. We featured many of his articles and reflections (all of which can be found here), including his TED Talk on AIDS treatment and writing on Christmas hope.  Here are some of the many reactions to his life and his Christian witness. Daniel Silliman… Read More Michael Gerson (1964-2022)

via Bread 4 Today: