In the past few months studying the Philokalia, I eagerly looked for the three lead idols in my life: gluttony, avarice, and the desire for the esteem of others. Gluttony cropped up first, easy to find. Similarly, I caught myself falling into the … [Read more]
Charisms, Covenant, and Rhythms
Rather than taking time to settle into life together, most new communities try to live out all their ideals all at once. Instead of recognizing that freedom from addictions of this world takes a lifetime, communities attempt to quit every vice … [Read more]
Beholding in Nature
I never expected to have a conversation with a tree. But that’s why we go on pilgrimages. We go to Assisi for the hope of a stunning encounter, a proverbial mountain-top experience. We return because, as a thin space, the place itself invites us into … [Read more]