The Pope and the Baobab
Recent news reports confirm that the iconic baobab, the famous African tree that can live thousands of years, reach nearly 100 feet high and grow trunks that are 32 feet ...
What Religion Gives Us (That Science Can’t)
The New York Times recently published an opinion piece by philosopher Stephen Asma with the above title. It was among the newspaper’s most trending stories and elicited thousands of comments. ...
On Not Being “a Religious Person”
Since an assignment years ago by the National Catholic Reporter to do a story on Focolare, a worldwide movement that works for unity and acceptance of diversity, I’ve received the ...
Do Right and Wrong Actually Exist?
Recently, Cyrus Vance, the district attorney for Manhattan, brought felony charges of rape and criminal sexual acts against Harvey Weinstein, the famous film producer. The case has produced a ton ...
Why Christianity Deserves a Fresh Look
What comes to mind when you hear the word “Christianity?” A vague grouping of all the Christian denominations? A particular Christian religion, such Lutheranism or Catholicism? An image of old, ...
Seeking Optimism
A recent National Public Radio program reminded me that the Musical “Hair” opened on Broadway 50 years ago, declaring that it was the beginning of “the Age of Aquarius.” “When ...