John Horvat II 
A disturbing new trend is emerging in conservative politics in America. There is no other word to describe it. The move invites Christians to modify the focus of policies that have long defined Christian political action based on the Culture War, small government and morality. These Christian policies were powerfully motivated by … Read more
We live in terrible times when tiny horizons dominate the attention of so many. We do not think in grand terms anymore. People are not motivated by magnificent desires or passions. Few appreciate splendor and overwhelming beauty. Instead, many seek the tiny impulse, the momentary high or the insignificant trifle, as a … Read more
It has become fashionable to attack “the West.” The term no longer expresses the certainties it once did. Thus, it has proven to be a ready scapegoat to blame for so many of the world’s ills. Both the left and right share this criticism. Gone is the secure, unified world it once … Read more
In today’s dangerous world scene, many populist and nationalist sectors call for walking away from world commitments and focusing on national problems. They see this isolationism as a Benedict option writ large. There are certainly enough national problems and expenses to occupy America and the nations of the world. Minding one’s own … Read more
The latest fashion in Church governance is the Synodal Church. It features Church clergy and laity gathering to discuss the needs and desires of “the people.” Everyone is asked to be especially attuned to what “the Spirit” is saying. Thus, this Synodal Church considers itself a listening church. Everyone must listen more … Read more
After the overturning of Roe v. Wade, the battle for the unborn rages unabated, as each side must readjust its strategies in a nation divided in half over this vital moral issue. As much as the left tries to frame the debate in terms of “women’s health” or “reproductive rights,” it cannot … Read more
As the school year begins, protests are expected to break out at university campuses across the country. No one should have any illusions about the malice and intentions of the most radical protesters. These protesters will not seek to change the present society. They do not want reform; they want revolution. A … Read more
Only two nations do not have legalized divorce: the Vatican City State and the Philippines. These nations realize that easy access to divorce plays a major role in the destruction of the modern family. Divorce now threatens to come to the Philippines, Asia’s most Catholic nation. “Catholic” legislators in the Philippines Senate … Read more
As nationalism and populist political philosophies gain traction, many Americans are adopting isolationist and noninterventionist positions. An America-first approach calls for focusing on national problems. The isolationist argument is that the burden of international commitments has weighed heavily upon the nation for too long. Let others deal with these problems and intervene. … Read more
Among the religious orders dedicated to the contemplative life, the Carmelites have a special role. Carmelite convents are found all over the world. They have given the Church countless saints and models. Many Carmelite convents are now in crisis because they have no vocations. The nuns are dying off. Convent after convent … Read more