The Environmental Encyclical is Out – Now What?

Last week, Pope Francis released his first major teaching letter, Laudato si’ (“Praise Be,” invoking the opening lines of St. Francis of Assisi’s canticle, “Brother Sun and Sister Moon”). An encyclical years in the making, it weaves together science and theology, ecology and economics to urge not only Catholics and other Christians, but all members… Read More The Environmental Encyclical is Out – Now What?

Hopes for Justice, Understanding, and Unity in the Wake of Obergefell v. Hodges

When the Supreme Court handed down its decision in the Obergefell v. Hodges case this past Friday, legalizing same-sex marriage across the nation, I was in the midst of a workshop with a group of highly intelligent, dedicated young Catholic teachers. As it has everywhere around the country, this news stirred up considerable conversation. What… Read More Hopes for Justice, Understanding, and Unity in the Wake of Obergefell v. Hodges

Six Things to Know About Pope Francis’ Upcoming Encyclical

This post by Henry Longbottom, SJ is also featured on The Jesuit Post. A thinly veiled piece of climate alarmist propaganda.  A groundbreaking exposition of Catholic ecological thinking. Well intentioned but economically naïve.  A slippery slope towards extremist environmentalist positions. Such are the reactions to Pope Francis’ ecology encyclical—and it hasn’t even been published yet.… Read More Six Things to Know About Pope Francis’ Upcoming Encyclical

Politics Sucks, But Don’t Check Out

Neither the Democratic Party nor the Republican Party has a platform or priorities that fully reflect the principles of Catholic social teaching. Money has infected the American political system, threatening the very foundations of representative government. Politicians run polls so they know to avoid words like poverty and social justice, which don’t win votes. Major… Read More Politics Sucks, But Don’t Check Out