I’m writing this on a Sunday, and as I lay resting after guiding a mission group through their spring break, I am awakened by an elderly man yelling out for Sister Valdair. Not only is it a Sunday, but also her only day off from tending for mission groups and running the pharmacy during the… Read More Lenten Reflection Series: Inspired by Sister Valdair
In the two years since Pope Francis’ election, the phrase “Francis Effect” has come to describe the unique impact of Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s papacy. But what exactly is the Francis Effect? Can we measure it? Is it real? In evaluating the Francis Effect, there are two components to consider: the popular media’s narrative and the… Read More Is the Francis Effect Real?
This time of year, it’s easy to get caught in the late-winter doldrums. The snow and slush have hung around just long enough so that we begin to doubt that spring really is just around the corner. And the Lenten season can drag as well. It seems like it’s been ages since we gathered together… Read More Lenten Reflection Series: Preparing for the Eternal Spring
Pope Francis has announced a Holy Year of Mercy: Dear brothers and sisters, I have often thought about how the Church might make clear its mission of being a witness to mercy. It is journey that begins with a spiritual conversion. For this reason, I have decided to call an extraordinary Jubilee that is to… Read More Pope Francis Announces Holy Year, the Jubilee of Mercy
Throughout the season of Lent, we’re featuring the Millennial Lenten Reflection Series, co-sponsored by Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good and Franciscan Mission Service. Each small reflection will be written by a young person, focusing on that day’s Mass reading. You can sign up for the series here. The second reading from St. Paul to the… Read More Lenten Reflection Series: Understanding Grace
Throughout the season of Lent, we’re featuring the Millennial Lenten Reflection Series, co-sponsored by Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good and Franciscan Mission Service. Each small reflection will be written by a young person, focusing on that day’s Mass reading. You can sign up for the series here. It is tempting to measure the health of… Read More Lenten Reflection Series: Giving Up Control and Being Open to God’s Mercy
Throughout the season of Lent, we’re featuring the Millennial Lenten Reflection Series, co-sponsored by Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good and Franciscan Mission Service. Each small reflection will be written by a young person, focusing on that day’s Mass reading. You can sign up for the series here. Today’s Gospel is a simple, straightforward exchange between… Read More Lenten Reflection Series: Abandoning Our Digital Idols
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