When James Foley became a martyr this week, I didn’t know much about him. I vaguely remember the news of his capture in 2012, since he is from nearby New Hampshire. We all have learned more about him quickly, just as we’ve learned more about Syrian politics, more about radicalization, hate and terror from theContinue reading >>
Surprised by Ignatius, part 2
Yesterday I shared the first part of my experience of being surprised to find that Ignatian Spirituality was a part of my life long before I knew anything about it. This piece is adapted from a talk I will give at an Ignatian Identity Workshop in Lusaka, Zambia next week. Thanks for reading, and pleaseContinue reading >>
The loving vision
I began the descent to San Damiano a half hour before the church and monastery were due to reopen after riposa. Knowing I would arrive before that time I eased down the hill, admiring olive trees and Umbrian vistas while trying not to think about the impending ascent after I visited the holy site. TuckedContinue reading >>
Lighting a candle
Is it OK to be confused? When we walked into the Church of John the Evangelist in the resort town of Monterosso al Mare, the first sight was the array of candles. I love candles for décor, but never understood them as part of religious practice. As a child, arriving early for mass, I wasContinue reading >>
A defense of holy drama
Then Jesus took the bread, blessed it and broke it, saying “This is my Body, which will be given up for you”. And then one of the disciples rolled his eyes and nudged his buddy under the table, as if to say “here he goes again.” *** I have always loved mass, and as isContinue reading >>