How do you identify a Christian? While there might be many answers to that question, Christopher Smith, SJ, reflects on the one answer that Jesus gives in today’s gospel. Based on the readings for Sunday, May 15, 2022. How will folks know that you’re a...
The following reflection is part of our “Jesuit 101” series, celebrating the Ignatian Year. This piece helps us to better understand the phrase, “Men and Women for and with others” which is used often in the context of Jesuit education. To learn more, check out our...
Last summer, walking around the campus of Jesuit High, my newest assignment, I spied a patch of dirt that used to be a vegetable garden. I reminisced that I had enjoyed scratching around in the dirt as a child, and I figured I could start a dynamic gardening club at...
Growing up in rural Vermont, I was aware of what a gift the natural world was from a very young age. Some of my earliest experiences of God came from spending nights outside under the stars, marveling at the immensity of it all, especially on those nights when the...
We typically desire to lead, not follow, but sometimes it can be freeing to let go of control. Danny Gustafson, SJ, reflects on the freedom that can be found in following the Good Shepherd. Based on the readings for Sunday, May 8, 2022. Be a leader, not a follower!...
This year I am graduating for the fourth time from a Jesuit school. 1 Throughout the past fifteen years, I often heard encouragement from teachers or other students to be “a man for others.” When I was in high school, the phrase often meant having an other-oriented...
In the crook on the crozier of my shoulder, a premature, newborn baby is sleeping; little tiny fingers cling to the adjoining bend of my collarbone. The sweetness nestled therein has found its tending. Like a sheep unto a shepherd, this one tends toward being tended...
Two common questions I had growing up as a Catholic were: “What is prayer?” and “How do I pray?” Fast-forward to today, when I am an ordained priest. And whether I’m on a retreat, at church after Mass, or really just about any other place (including getting a drink...
The following is an edited excerpt from The Crucible of Racism: Ignatian Spirituality and the Power of Hope, a new book from TJP contributor Patrick Saint-Jean. “To Christians, the future does have a name, and its name is Hope. Feeling hopeful does not mean to be...
Peter denied Jesus, but he is not held back by this mistake. After his encounter and reconciliation with Jesus on the seashore, Peter lives with bold faith. Tucker Redding, SJ, reflects on our own need to live like we’ve been forgiven. Based on the readings for...
