We are all on a shared sacred journey. Our individual paths may be diverse, but I am convinced that we are all geared to one destination – the realization of Love – the Love of God with God. There are many ways people interpret this mystical Presence in their own life experience. As Jalaluddin Rumi once said: “There are a thousand ways to kneel down and kiss the ground.” Many traditions have their own way of saying that all rivers lead to the ocean. I like the premise in Alcoholics Anonymous...

In today’s gospel passage, Jesus lays out his conflict resolution plan for us. If we have a problem with someone, he doesn’t want us to publicly embarrass or humiliate the offender but to “point out the fault when the two of you are alone.” First, he wants us to address the conflict without involving other people. He instructs us to offer the offender a chance to make amends before we involve others. I don’t know about you, but I come from a long line of conflict avoiders. My Scandinavian...

Matthew 16:13-20 Skid Row in Los Angeles has roughly 10,000 homeless, poor, and marginally employed residents. The area, with its numerous street encampments, rescue missions, and single room occupancy hotels, has the dubious nickname of “the homeless capital of the nation.” It is also the most policed area in the country. In the heart of it all is the Hospitality Kitchen, also known as the “Hippie Kitchen,” run by the Catholic Worker program. The soup kitchen offers hot meals three days per...