It’s easy to think about receiving gifts during this time of year. Patrick Saint-Jean, SJ, used to call it “toy season.” Today he reflects on the challenge of John the Baptist to give to those in need.
Ask God First: Rethinking Our Lenten Sacrifice
Before Lent, we often feel a rush of anxiety or excitement as we try to answer the question: “what are you giving up?” As we prepare to enter this new liturgical season, Eric invites us to ask a deeper question, considering what God might desire for us in this time.
Beavers, Muskrats, and the Real Invitation of Lent
As Lent approaches, Brennan Dour, SJ, reflects on the curious historical case of Catholics in New France classifying beavers as fish during Lent, and the reminder it offers that Lent’s purpose is not a rigid intensifying of rules, but God’s invitation to grow closer to him whatever our circumstances.
St. Paul Miki and Companions: A Witness to God’s Transformative Love
Ben Jansen, SJ, reflects on the legacy of the 26 Martyrs of Japan, whose joyful witness to Christ in the face of persecution and death continues to inspire Christians worldwide.
Dancing in the Streets
Caught between debates and dancing, Eric Immel, SJ remembers what makes him feel free.
The Jesuit Trade
Woodworker and Jesuit Ken Homan wonders if it’s time for the Jesuits to open trade schools
The Relevance of Irrelevance
Are the liberal arts still relevant? Pierce Gibson, SJ reflects.
An Open Letter to Cubs Fans, From a Sox Fan
Despite growing up a White Sox fan, Sean Barry, SJ reflects upon his disturbing delight at the ascendance of the once-despised Cubs
The Other Election
What do your local elections and the Jesuit General Congregation have in common? You might be surprised, Michael Mohr, SJ explains.
The Present Pain of My Past
How much does our past inform our present? Damian Torres-Botello, SJ illustrates how this question has become a massive hurdle in his own life.