Meditations
Respect Life Video Series: Abolish the Death Penalty
October 20, 2021
“Why do we kill people who kill people to show that killing people is wrong?” is the question Jean Swymeler asked to begin her presentation on abolishing the death penalty during the third session of the Renewal Centers’ October discussion series on respect life issues. Then Connie Swymeler described her personal conversion to opposing the death penalty.
The Jewish Holiday of Shabbat: A Time of Refreshment, Part 2 of 2
October 18, 2021
Rabbi Heschel describes Shabbat as "a cathedral in time," a place to enjoy sacred rest, a hallowed break from doing to make room for being.
Family Matters #28: Pets are family too!
October 13, 2021
By Lucia Ferrara
Do you have a furry friend who has become part of your family? People are learning that the connection between their pet is good for their physical health and mental well-being.
Respect Life: Time to Abolish the Death Penalty
October 12, 2021
The Catechism of the Catholic Church says the death penalty is “inadmissible” in all cases. Pope Francis has challenged all Catholics to work for its abolishment. On Oct. 16, Jean Swymeler, Connie Swymeler, and Margaret D’Huyvetter will propose ways that we can join this campaign.
Respect Life Video Series: Mothers Who Lost Children to Violence
In the second of our five-week study session on deepening our awareness of the meaning of “respect for life,” Precious Blood Sr. Donna from the Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation introduces us to two women who lost their sons to violence of Chicago streets.
The Jewish Holiday of Shabbat: A Weekly Time of Refreshment
October 11, 2021
By Kathy Keary
“The sages describe Shabbat as a taste of the world to come – a glimpse into the Messianic time of true peace and lovingkindness.” ~ Rabbi Ted Falcon
Respect Life: When violence claims a child
October 6, 2021
In the second of our five-week study session on respect life issues, we meet mothers who have lost children to gun violence or incarceration and how they come together for support and healing. Guest speakers: Sr. Donna Liette, C.PP.S. and members of the Mothers Circle at Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation in Chicago.
Respect Life Video Series: Elder Abuse Awareness
In the first of our five-week study session on deepening our awareness of the meaning of “respect for life,” we meet Julie Kuzera and Nanna Cross of the Jane Addams Senior Caucus in Chicago, who are activists in the cause of exposing and preventing elder abuse.
Living in tension: Can you stay in a church that inspires and disappoints?
October 5, 2021
By Fr. Bill Nordenbrock, CPPS
Are you struggling with the tension of a Church that is simultaneously inspirational and disappointing? Do you wonder if it is possible to be faithfully loyal and faithfully prophetic? Can we form a communion while living in tension?
Sukkot: A Joyful Celebration in the Jewish Tradition
October 4, 2021
By Kathy Keary
The harvest analogy of Sukkot continues to hold significance as the Jewish people reflect on the spiritual and emotional benefit of the experience of heartfelt repentance and forgiveness offered by the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur.