Opinion

One of the great characteristics of our contemporary cultural ethos is the way in which we can easily take charge of things. In our family affairs, for instance, we know how important it is to be responsive to issues that affect the well-being of those close to us. Indeed, our ability to react quickly and with certainty is part and parcel of being responsible with and for others.

The Epistles are among the most beautiful letters ever written. St. Paul writes so eloquently in Philippians, "... I beg you: Make my joy complete by your unanimity, possessing the one love, united in spirit and ideals."

During a particularly challenging time in my life, I spoke with the late Father Jim Krings, a truly splendid priest. I went looking for words of wisdom from him and he simply stated, "Read Philippians. I can't give you any better advice and inspiration than that." He was right.

My dad was a terrific doodler. He could entertain my sister and me for quite a while with his version of Kilroy or a sketch of a silly Tam-wearing Scotsman. When dad finished entertaining us with his pad of paper and pencil, we'd turn to mom and ask her to draw something. She always said she just wasn't creative. No begging or cajoling could make her pick up the pencil.

Brother Mickey O'Neill McGrath can't help but grin when he talks about his art studio. It's been a long time coming for the 55-year-old Oblate of St. Frances de Sales who grew up drawing but wasn't able to commit to a full-time art career until 1994.

When the award-winning painter first visited the row house beside Sacred Heart Church in South Camden, N.J., three years ago, it was gutted. But Brother Mickey had a vision for what it could become, and so did the pastor of Sacred Heart, and soon lumber was arriving and electricians were wiring.

The word "bully" evokes emotion. It can stir haunting memories, stories and experiences. Now a big-screen documentary by the same name provokes soul-searching reflections on youth. Pleas from professionals, educators and youth leaders successfully influenced the movie industry to give "Bully" a rating of PG-13, so that, despite actual footage of violent behavior, vulgar language and homosexual themes, young people would be able to view peer abuse on the big screen.

I participated in an ACTS retreat that was presented in February by a special group of men from Holy Spirit Parish in Maryland Heights. Here is a quick peek at some of my journey.

Thoughts before the retreat:

I am a pilgrim on the earth.

I feel like I am wandering most days, uncertain of my destination and unconfident that I am going where I should. I know You are present in my life, Father. My head and heart tell me that. But so often, I don't actually feel Your presence. Am I supposed to? With so much time spent in prayer and reading Scripture, you'd think I would know.