Spiritual Advice from Ostriches, Boabab Trees, and Dung Beetles
Sister Janice McLaughlin, a Maryknoll Sister who lived and worked in Africa for thirty-five years, has written a charming book entitled Ostriches, Dung Beetles, and Other Spiritual Masters. During her time in Africa, Sr. Janice “reveled in the breathtaking beauty of the African continent.” She was fascinated especially with its vast array of wildlife. Over the years, she collected information on this wildlife and began to see spiritual wisdom in specific animals and plants. Her book blends information, her experiences, and scripture quotes with questions for reflection and action. Today, with the help of Sr. Janice, let’s see what spiritual advice we can glean from these three examples from the African continent: ostriches, boabab trees, and dung beetles. (more…)
The Ten Commandments: WHY Do We Keep Them?
Many of us memorized the 10 Commandments as children. In case your memory is a little fuzzy, here are the 10 Commandments in the traditional catechism formula.
(For the fun of it, you might want to see if you can recite them before you read them below): (more…)
Some Lessons I've Learn while on the Road
As most of you know, part of my ministry consists in giving talks and retreats all over the country. Along the way, I’ve learned many things. I’d like to share a few of those lessons with you today.
Some Lessons I’ve Learn while on the Road
As most of you know, part of my ministry consists in giving talks and retreats all over the country. Along the way, I’ve learned many things. I’d like to share a few of those lessons with you today.
Jesus Worked
Jesus worked. We learn this from the Gospels. We also learn this from studying the life and society of first Century Palestine. Remembering that Jesus worked is important, for it is one way we (who also have to work for a living) can identify with him. It is also one way he identifies with us! As we celebrate Labor Day in the U.S. let’s reflect on Jesus as laborer. (more…)
