Today’s heightened polarization has seemingly erected insurmountable walls in our political discourse. Continuing this new miniseries, Ty Wahlbrink, SJ, offers practical suggestions for how the “application of the senses” in the Spiritual Exercises can help us grow in empathy this fall.
Posts in Current Events
Persevering in Conversion: After the Cannonball Moment comes the Thorny Path
The story of Saint Ignatius reminds us to always trust in God’s goodness and graces for the unknown twists and turns of life. In the footsteps of Ignatius this summer, Daniel Mascarenhas, SJ reflects how he found this saint’s example helps him navigate the difficult spiritual and practical realities following his conversion to a plant-based diet.
Is Forgiveness Necessary for Psychological Health?
Forgiveness is one of the most important themes of the Christian gospel yet a recent New York Times article suggests it may sometimes be ‘overrated.’ Erin explores the relationship between forgiveness, psychological health, and the Christian gospel.
An Ignatian Response to Homelessness
Homelessness in America, especially in California, is a growing crisis that is often ignored. Yet, Christ identified himself explicitly with those who “have no place to lay there heads.” James Millikan, SJ, reflects on one Jesuit ministry’s response to serve our brothers and sisters on the streets.
Searching for the Lost but Not Forgotten in the Borderlands
While serving at a migrant aid center on the US/Mexico border for his regency, Jaret Ornelas SJ was called to help locate a father who had gone missing in the desert. This continuing mission to find those lost and left behind in the Sonoran Desert has led to reflections on policies that kill, and the grace of God which can be found even in the midst of suffering and death.
Discerning Democracy: Navigating Civic Life with the First Week of the Spiritual Exercises
Election season can be difficult. The intense rhetoric and heightened polarization of today’s society can strain our personal relationships or disrupt our inner peace. In this new miniseries, Ty Wahlbrink, SJ, offers practical suggestions for how the wisdom of the Spiritual Exercises can help cultivate a discerning spirit as we navigate another election cycle.
The hidden ‘presence’ of Jesuits at the National Eucharistic Congress
Where were the Jesuits at the National Eucharistic Congress? John Stein, SJ explains that while the Jesuit presence may have seemed thin, the Jesuit contribution and charism was indeed present at the Congress—it was simply hidden.
The Reality of Cheap Chicken and the Overlooked Misery of our Animals
Many people eat chicken without knowing the harrowing realities of factory farms. Daniel questions whether Christians, in light of the Beatitude to show mercy, can continue to eat factory-sourced meat.
Shooting Dogs and Eating Meat: Towards a Consistent Ethic of Animal Life
The recent outcry over Governor Noem’s shooting of her hunting dog exposes an inconsistency with our deep love for animals. Daniel questions whether we as Christians can pamper some pets while also eating factory-farmed meat.
The Seven First Words of Jesus
As we enter the final days of Advent, Patrick takes a closer look at a popular Gospel passage that may offer some clues as to what may have been the first seven words of Jesus.