I like snakes, which is a good thing, since I’ve encountered a lot of them, often in unexpected places. Most memorable was the black rat snake that got into...
The Examined Life
Discover The Examined Life columns, highlighting the intersections between contemplation, lived faith, and social justice in daily life.
Across the plateaus, south of the county seat, a monster power shovel the height of a 20-story building loomed on the horizon. Its name was the Silver Spade...
About six years ago, a good friend recommended I watch a movie called Jenny’s Wedding. Jenny is a young woman with a successful career and a kind heart. Her...
“And so [Anna] turned [Mary’s] bedroom into a sanctuary. . .”(Infancy Gospel of James 6:4) There are gospels that aren’t part of our Bible, what we call...
And [Jesus] was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became bright as light.” (Matthew 17:2) Three gospels—Matthew, Mark...
I often think that Catholics have a parenting problem. Sure, we’re very good at idealizing parenthood: the beauty of family life, the miracle of new life, the...
Last March, I was invited to offer a Lenten reflection at St. Thomas More in Atlanta. I was also honored to give the keynote address at the Fortunate and...
“Feed my sheep.” (John 21:17) In John’s gospel, Jesus asks Peter, “Do you love me?” When Peter affirms that he does, Jesus responds, “Feed my lambs.” Jesus...
This year, reading the gospels during Holy Week, I can’t help but put myself in Mary’s shoes. What must it have been like to see Jesus at the cross, her little...
In December, I attended a Mass marking the start of the Jubilee 2025 celebrations. I sat next to a young mom and her three daughters. During the homily, I...
