Last weekend, a tragic fire ravaged Middle Collegiate Church in New York City’s East Village. The fire began in a neighboring building, spread to Middle and raged through the sanctuary, decimating the magnificently crafted colonial interior as priceless Tiffany windows blew out from the pressure of the blaze. The Middle Church sanctuary was a unique … Continue reading Linking Justice with Joy
The Handmaid’s Justice
Much attention has been paid to the concept of “handmaid” in the Republican attempt to confirm Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. This phrase appears in Luke’s Gospel as a way of introducing Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the version of Scripture approved by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops: “Behold, I … Continue reading The Handmaid’s Justice
Find the Light
There are many takeaways from this week’s Democratic National Convention. First, the experiment worked. Producing such a complex virtual gathering is an immense undertaking as anyone who has organized a simple zoom meeting can attest. This week’s virtual conference included scores of “scenes,” some performed live and some pre-recorded. So plaudits to the organizers, stage … Continue reading Find the Light
Forgiveness
Joe Biden’s announcement this week of Senator Kamala Harris as the choice to be his running mate is brilliant on so many levels. She complements the ticket geographically, demographically and vocationally. His staff was able to keep the announcement leak-free and yet choosing the Senator from California evoked little surprise. Her ability to be both … Continue reading Forgiveness
Ho Hum Racism
What is there left to say about the events of this week? The vicious death of George Floyd; the ensuing surge of protests across the country in denunciation of his death at the hands of Minneapolis police; the President’s reaction, unleashing the US military and calling on authorities to ‘dominate the streets,’ capped off by … Continue reading Ho Hum Racism