Homily on the Spot

What are you afraid of? A few years ago, I came across an article about cancer specialists and end-of-life conversations. The article explained that many doctors hesitate to tell terminally ill patients the full truth about their condition. One of the biggest reasons wasn’t lack of knowledge. It wasn’t lack of compassion. It was fear. The doctors feared breaking devast...

One of the more awkward moments in the Gospel comes right at the beginning of today’s reading. Matthew tells us that Jesus looked out at the crowds and was moved with pity for them because they were “troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd.” Now, if you’re anything like me, your first reaction might be, “Thanks, Lord. Sheep.” O...

A few years back, a story out of Russia made international headlines. It’s the kind of story that sticks with you—not just because it’s bizarre, but because it’s heartbreaking.  A woman named Fagilyu Mukhametzyanov, age 49, was declared dead by her doctors. Her family gathered for her funeral. Friends came to pay their respects. Prayers, tears, and sorrow filled the room...

One of the most memorable experiences of my time as chaplain to college students happened about seven years ago — in one of the most rugged, forgotten corners of Appalachia, Kentucky. Ten students from Montclair State University, along with our campus minister, packed into vans during spring break to work with the Christian Appalachian Project, rebuilding homes for some of th...