Pope Francis’ announcement of an upcoming synod dedicated to synodality is a cause of concern. Synodality is a vague term that describes the spirit of a synod, which is an assembly of ecclesiastics or other church delegates, convoked pursuant to the law of the church, for the discussion and decision of ecclesiastical … Read more
Who would ever have thought that pagan Incan idols would be worshiped at the Vatican in Rome? Yet, that is what happened over the course of the month-long Pan-Amazon Synod. It started in the Vatican Gardens on October 4, 2019. There was a ceremony with a ring of people, including one in … Read more
The wise Roman maxim “Si vis pacem, para bellum”—“If you want peace, prepare for war” still applies today. The prospects for peace in our times have dimmed since the fall of the Berlin Wall thirty long years ago. The reality of war was made patent by the brutal 9/11 attacks and the … Read more
In today’s polarized climate, Americans are being asked to choose between “either globalism or nationalism.” It is a false dilemma since neither side represents the balanced position found in an authentic patriotism that first appeared in ancient times. However, even ancient forms of patriotism, while sound in their origin, could not keep … Read more
As globalism comes under increasing attack, the right attitude toward the local nation and the global world is hard to find. Too much attachment to a local place can lead to narrow and distorted perspectives that can stifle development. Too little loyalty to a nation in favor of vague global links can … Read more
People who see the horrors of our chaotic world frequently segue to looking for a dangerous non-solution—the Benedict Option. That is why we must resist the temptation of simply writing off the present system with all its problems and isolating ourselves. In resisting, we reaffirm our certainty in Our Lady’s triumph foreseen … Read more
Nationalism is a phenomenon that has a long history prior to its present form in modern times. It has always been a model that puts national interests above all others. It has also opposed the unity of Christendom that put God and His law above all things. Prior to the nationalist scourge, … Read more
With the myriad political philosophies that circulate today, a thoughtful analyst can become confused, and legitimately so. Thus, any contribution to the debate that elucidates the basic principles of Catholic social teaching is an invaluable beacon of light amid the darkness. It could be argued that the most basic question regarding society … Read more
Let us read a short biographical sketch about Saint Luke that will give us elements to comment on his life and works. Luke was born in Antioch to a pagan family. He undoubtedly converted in the year 40. Having met him at Troas, Saint Paul took him as a companion on his … Read more
Millions of Catholics around the world were outraged when participants of the Pan Amazon Synod in Rome solemnly carried a nude fertility idol from Peru called a “Pachamama” in a procession in Saint Peter’s Basilica. In the inaugural ceremony in the Vatican Gardens, Pope Francis cheerfully received and blessed the idol. Later … Read more