The TJP archives

Ashes remind us of our dependence on God. Simon Zachary, SJ encourages us to consider why we receive ashes. Based on the readings for Ash Wednesday.

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.

Always following God’s law is a hard and difficult road. Jon Jue-Wong, SJ reflects on how God is always eager to help us do so. Based on the readings for the 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time.

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.

Don’t be afraid to share your light with the world. Chris Kinkor, SJ reflects on how our service to the marginalized helps show God to those around us. Based on the readings for the 5th Sunday of Ordinary Time.

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.

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.

As polarization intensifies and public discourse grows harsher, spoken prophecy can unfortunately devolve into noise. Ty Wahlbrink, SJ proposes that the antidote for the everyday Catholic is an Ignatian form of prophecy—one grounded in discernment, conscience formation, and love put into action.

SEEK gathered 20,000 Catholics in one place—and what emerged was friendship and consolation. Luke Lapean, SJ reflects on how encounter, curiosity, and shared faith reveal a Church that is more thriving and unified than most assume.