Two common definitions of chastity involve either some idea of abstinence or plainness of style. In both cases, chastity is typically defined as a noun. But no matter how I see the meaning of the word chastity, I am hard-pressed to view it as an action or state of being. To view it as a noun, I feel a...
Obedience, in regard to Benedictine spirituality, is about listening with the “ear” of your heart to God, self, and others. The Old Testament reads, “Sacrifice and offerings you do not want, but ears open to obedience you gave me… To do your will is my delight; my God, your law is in my heart”...
As Christians, we are blessed that God has given us so many sources to draw from to help us strengthen and grow in our faith. Imagine a tree, which starts as a seed in the ground and begins to sprout roots, breaking through the soil as a helpless sapling. The roots grow in various directions, pulling in...
This second week of November, three of the Franciscans who work at St. Anthony Messenger Press are together on retreat with 40-some other friars. With me are Fathers Pat McCloskey, editor of St. Anthony Messenger and Jack Wintz, editor of Catholic Update. We’re staying at the guest house of the Benedictine...
