In a deeply polarized political climate, Jonathan Haidt has helped unite ideologically diverse states around phone-free school policies. Alex Hale, SJ argues that this success reflects an Ignatian way of proceeding—meeting people where they are through genuine dialogue.
All posts by Alex Hale, SJ
Alex is a Jesuit Regent from Metro-Detroit. He met the Jesuits at the University of Detroit Jesuit High School before moving to Cincinnati, Ohio to attend Xavier University. At Xavier, he studied in the "Philosophy, Politics, and the Public" Honors Program while simultaneously working in local politics for various elected officials in the Cincinnati area as a legislative aide and campaign manager. He currently teaches Social Studies at St. Xavier High School in Cincinnati. He is an avid runner and a hockey player and fan, cheering on his hometown team, the Detroit Red Wings.
Joined in 2020 15 posts ahalesj@thejesuitpost.org @AlexElaireHale
Ignatian Contemplation: A Man Healed at the Pool of Bethsaida
Ignatian Contemplation is a distinctly Jesuit way of praying with Scripture that invites the reader to enter the scene using their imagination. As you watch this video prepared by Alex Hale, SJ, allow the video’s prompts to guide your prayer on the man healed at Bethsaida.
The Conformist Trap: How Minimalism is Killing our Identities
From Cracker Barrel to city skylines, minimalism has stripped away much of what makes our culture unique. Alex Hale, SJ warns that this “conformist trap” isn’t just an aesthetic problem — it’s a spiritual one.
Our Political Idols: Why We Mislabel the Popes (and Ourselves)
Media narratives try to force Pope Leo XIV into political boxes that no pope can check. Alex Hale, SJ warns that politics now replaces religion in shaping American identity and calls Catholics to rise above division in pursuit of unity.
The Trinity: God is Love, Loving | One-Minute Homily
The Trinity is hard to comprehend and yet there is something about it that we all long for. Alex Hale, SJ, reflects on how the community of the Trinity speaks to our own desire to be unique members of a loving community.
Rejected by the World, Not by Jesus | One-Minute Homily
Have you ever felt rejected by the world? Jesus does not reject you. Alex Hale, SJ, reflects on Jesus’ message to not let our hearts be troubled.
Palm Sunday: The Work is not Done | One-Minute Homily
On Palm Sunday we celebrate the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and we hear the narrative of the Passion. Alex Hale, SJ, reminds us that in the joyful celebration of Palm Sunday, we can’t forget the work that is left to be done, including in our own hearts
The Transfiguration: Recognizing Miracles | One-Minute Homily
Do we recognize the moments when God is revealed to us? Alex Hale, SJ, encourages us to recognize the Transfigurations that take place in our own lives.
Ash Wednesday: Sin and Mercy | One-Minute Homily
Today we begin the season of Lent, a time of penance. While it can be uncomfortable to think about our sins, Alex Hale, SJ, reminds us that this is also an opportunity to experience the great love and mercy of God.



