For most of the 14th century, the popes lived in Avignon, France. They had their reasons for moving there. But saintly Christians, like Saint Catherine of Siena, convinced them to return to Rome for the sake of unity, which is the will of the Father.

What is this life that flows into us from Christ, the Vine, that sets us free? 

(*The name of the docuseries I reference in this podcast is Unlocked, and it's on Netflix, if you're interested.)

I just finished watching a series about a Sheriff who gave freedom to some inmates, calling it an experiment. But he was so full of hope for them that I think it was more than merely an experiment. I think it was love.

What will it take for the boy to become a man? 

Just a little encouragement, in the spirit of Saint Barnabas. 

The image of the Field Hospital may be a good way to imagine the Good Shepherd, with us on the fields of battle.

i don't ask couples to explain how they love one another. But it is interesting to invite them to reflect on why they do.

We're called to imitate Christ, of course. But we're also called to imitate the first disciples and Apostles in their willingness to help people to understand the Scriptures. 

"I AM the Bread of Life." He is given to the world to be consumed by all those whom the Father sends to Him. Isn't this what He asks of us as well, to be consumed by those whom He sends to us?

We owe a debt of gratitude to those who pray for us, just as Saint Paul has Saint Stephen to thank for his conversion.