Before Original Sin: The Message of Jesus Christ

In the first five centuries following the death of Jesus, the central emphasis of Christianity was less on a fully developed doctrine of redemption from a universally fallen humanity and more on living out the message he proclaimed—an ethical, communal, and transformative way of life rooted in love, justice, and devotion to God. While themes … Read more

Echoes of the Land: Indigenous Names Across the United States

Influential Individuals advocate for alterations to the traditional names of well-known landmarks on our maps. I reside on land that the Haudenosaunee people initially owned. I requested from ChatGPT a list of U.S. geographic locations with names originating from indigenous languages, including their meanings, where possible. States Rivers and Bodies of Water Mountains and Valleys … Read more

Why Public Libraries are Essential for Community Learning and Development

Public libraries significantly promote literacy and provide access to books and other resources that help individuals learn and grow. For mothers of small children, especially those who are learning how to read, public libraries are a valuable resource that can significantly benefit both mothers and their children. This blog will discuss how public libraries are … Read more

Being Woke: A Path to Justice, Love and Equality

  I asked ChatGPT to write a poem about being “Woke.” It came out better than I expected. It’s another reason to like this new AI technology and the perfect response to those who would discourage others from caring deeply about social issues. “Being woke is a state of mind, Where truth and justice we … Read more

Accepting Our Responsibility: Why Social Consciousness Matters

A Bodhisattva is a being who has attained enlightenment and is dedicated to helping others attain it as well. This is a good thing because Bodhisattvas serve as teachers, guides, and role models of compassion and selflessness, inspiring others to strive for the same level of enlightenment. Bodhisattvas also remind us that all beings are … Read more

Thank you padre!

Saw this on Representative Mike Thompson’s Twitter feed this morning. Mike Thompson represents California’s 5th Congressional District. This letter from a Catholic Priest friend says it all about Arch Bishop Cordileone’s latest misguided decision: “Bishops, priests, etc. are neither the hosts nor the bouncers nor the ones who wrote the guest list. The Eucharist is … Read more