Tag Archives: christianity

Rum, salt and blessings

THE EDITOR: Madam: Two events, occurring at different times, caused unease among Christians in Jamaica. On November 17, 2013, The Gleaner reported that Rev Marjorie Lewis used salt to bless offices at the Ministry of Youth (‘Salty Ritual leaves youth ministry staff concerned’). Recently, Minister Daryl Vaz used white rum to bless school buses, prompting the JamaicaContinue reading “Rum, salt and blessings”

Living in the Present Moment

focusing on what is happening now, acknowledging my racing thoughts and strong emotions, and noticing those around me are my greatest challenges. The fierce and gentle winds of distraction, along with clouds of worries about the past or future, shift my focus away from the present, pulling me back either into the past or forwardContinue reading “Living in the Present Moment”

Shaping New Life Through Suffering

“If God causes you to suffer much, it is a sign that He has great designs foryou…” (St. Ignatius of Loyola). Reflecting on this line, I find it difficult to accept. There is a deeper meaning to thosemoments of suffering, but I often get caught up in the pain and discomfort of thepresent. The imageContinue reading “Shaping New Life Through Suffering”

A Pope of Vulnerability, Continuity and Augustian Justice

THE EDITOR, Madame: The election of Pope Leo XIV signifies a crucial moment for the Catholic Church, combining humility, continuity, and a renewed focus on social justice. His first public appearance was marked by evident vulnerability—tears in his eyes, a quiver in his voice, and a face showing both wonder and anxiety. Does this humanityContinue reading “A Pope of Vulnerability, Continuity and Augustian Justice”

Pope Francis

THE EDITOR, Madame: As the world reflects on Pope Francis’ passing, it is imperative to examine the essence of his leadership style, which transcended mere promises and sought to enact meaningful change. A transformational leader, as epitomised by Pope Francis, articulates a shared vision that empowers individuals across diverse backgrounds to contribute to a collectiveContinue reading “Pope Francis”

God Becomes Clay

“Our hope has a name – Jesus – God who was not disgusted by our clay, and who, instead of saving us from the clay, became clay for us” (Pope Francis, 2025). How do we perceive Christ amidst the clay – the imperfections, woundedness, incompleteness, and brokenness – of the world and our humanity? WhenContinue reading “God Becomes Clay”

Communion as friendship

“Friendship flourishes when we dare to share our doubts and seek the truth together” —Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP, Friendship, Synod Assembly 2023. Sharing doubts and seeking the truth together is possible only by swimming through the turbulent waters of vulnerability. Brené Brown states vulnerability is an uncomfortable feeling of “uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure”. VulnerabilityContinue reading “Communion as friendship”

Smal up yourself’ on the synodal bus ride

I have travelled on public transportation in different countries, and my experiences have ranged from dangerous to hilarious. In Jamaica, for example, passengers have their seats when a bus departs the terminus. The bus stops periodically along the route, not for passengers to disembark but for more passengers to embark, accompanied by the conductor’s words,Continue reading “Smal up yourself’ on the synodal bus ride”

Desert Rose and Preparedness

For the last four days, I have been unable to meditate in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, so I am sitting outside facing four potted plants of desert roses. Upon completing my Christian Meditation mantra, “Maranatha,” I open my eyes and gaze at the skeleton-like, almost leafless desert survivors crowned with pink flowers. EachContinue reading “Desert Rose and Preparedness”