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The best advocate in the chaos
There are times when we need an Advocate. We need someone to advance our cause, to put into words what we’re feeling, and to speak truth to the powers holding us back. The…
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But this is more than a moment to me…
I had a weird dream. A group was holding religious services in the chapel at the conference and retreat center where I used to work. They decorated the chapel with kitschy 70s disco…
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The Lord’s command: Be strong and courageous
“Don’t forget Laura.” That’s what several of the homeless people on my bus said as they pointed to a woman sitting alone in her walker in a distant parking lot. Because of her disability,…
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The most important part of prayer – remembering
Last month, I visited one of the oldest churches in Puebla, Mexico, the beautiful Templo de Convento de San Francisco. It was built by the Franciscans in 1516 as a monastery and place…
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Mary sees her risen son. I see my mom.
There is a fascinating meditation in the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius: Imagine what it would be like if Jesus appeared to his mother after his resurrection. (#299) Though not recorded in scripture,…
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How to keep the gift of divine mercy flowing
In scripture, there are two different images of the disciples. In the gospel (Jn 20:20), they're behind locked doors. They are afraid. At least one is filled with doubts. In Acts (5:12-16), they’re…
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How Pope Francis Changed My Life
When a friend or family member dies, I often write a letter to that person in my journal. Below is the letter I wrote to Pope Francis the morning I heard of his…
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This is what Jesus said you should also do…
In the gospel, Jesus gives a command. “As I have done for you, you should also do.” What did he do? A disgusting, humiliating task assigned to the lowest of slaves. He washed…
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A New Image for Good Friday
On the First Sunday of Lent, I visited the Metropolitan Cathedral in Mexico City. I saw a most unusual crucifix. It is sometimes called the black Christ (Cristo Negro), but most often is…
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My call? Well, I wanted to be like that man
I spent some time last week with my old friend, Pastor Fred. He’s a retired Baptist minister, 91 years old. I visit him from time to time, especially when I need stories infused…
