Often, Christ reveals himself to us in ways we don’t immediately recognize. Eric Panicco, SJ, reflects that Easter reminds us to allow our confusion to transform into joy as we discover God’s presence in unexpected places. Based on the readings for The Resurrection of the Lord, the Mass of Easter Day.
Eating Vegan and Healthy Isn’t Selfish — It’s Faithful
The Catholic faith esteems the human body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. Given the negative health outcomes of animal-based foods, Daniel Mascarenhas, SJ reflects how loving God, neighbor, and self through a plant-based diet seems to be a no-brainer.
God Calls Ordinary People: A Reflection on the Life of Pope Francis
Since his passing, the world has been commemorating the extraordinary life and ministry of Pope Francis. Brennan Dour, SJ reflects that what distinguishes the late pontiff’s example was above all his humanity and humility. His life reminds us that ordinary people are called to extraordinary discipleship
Finding God in Football: The Ignatian Examen Applied to Sports
As a semi-professional soccer player, Javi Bailén, SJ understood the importance of routine reflection. As a Jesuit, he discovered how the Ignatian spirituality provides perfect tools for athletes and teams to reflect on their performance. In his first for TJP, Javi writes about how the Examen can be adapted for sports teams to find God in their game – and perhaps improve their future play.
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.