Understanding Christian Hope for a New School Year
Every new school year brings its own set of expectations for the future. I have a privileged position to reflect on this reality, as I…
read moreLess Worry, More Trust: Praying the Surrender Novena in Times of Change
Sometimes, I really miss my childhood. With my parents reliably around to take care of everything for me, I didn’t have to worry about much.…
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Four Tips for Keeping Your Semester Holy
I’m a college English professor with two children, ages 6 and 8. As a new school semester begins for our family, new routines automatically emerge.…
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Community Service: How You Can Act on Catholic Social Teaching Every Day
During my many years of volunteer service (primarily in hunger relief organizations), I’ve witnessed a frustrating phenomenon. While people (admirably) tend to focus on opportunities…
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Salt of the Earth: Engaging Hearts and Minds With Jesus’ Metaphors
“Why didn’t Jesus talk plainly? Why didn’t he just say what he meant?” The student asked. “What is, ‘You are the salt of the world’…
read moreThree Steps for Coming Back to Church
I often run into people who, upon finding out that I work in the Catholic Church, inform me that they’ve been away from church for…
read moreLessons From Saint Benedict: Creating Community in the Classroom
The first day of school can be scary, and it’s especially scary when you’re the teacher. The first time I stood in front of a…
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