The author reflects on the significance of physical presence in family gatherings, particularly within his wife’s large extended family. He likens these gatherings to the communal aspect of the Church, emphasizing the importance of togetherness.
TOBET
Beauty Will Save the World
Fyodor Dostoevsky, celebrated for emphasizing beauty’s role in spirituality, influenced Pope John Paul II, who promoted beauty as a means of hope against oppression, contributing to the fall of Communism in Eastern Europe.
The Body of Christ: Even on the Moon
The discussion humorously explores the concept of a “bishop of the moon,” originating from Archbishop William Borders, highlighting that jurisdiction is irrelevant without inhabitants. It emphasizes the Church’s purpose is love and connection among believers.
Three Things I Have Learned at TOBET
Working at TOBET has deepened my understanding of the Theology of the Body, emphasizing that we are our bodies, viewing the body as a sacrament, and recognizing marriage’s crucial role in faith.
The Architecture Matters
Chris discusses the connection between beauty and goodness in architecture, criticizing modern and postmodern styles for their lack of aesthetic value while praising Gothic architecture for its divine beauty and uplifting symbolism.
TOB Will Change the World
Exactly 50 years ago, on December 8, 1974, sitting with the Blessed Sacrament, Karol Wojtyla wrote, “O, Maria, thou art beautiful.” Thus began The Theology of the Body. As many of you know, Karol Wojtyla would go on to become Pope Saint John Paul II and lead the...
Given and Entrusted
“We must ourselves be a total gift, a disinterested, sincere gift in order to recognize, in every man, the gift that he is, and to thank the Giver for the gift of the human person.” -Saint John Paul the Great, Meditation on Givenness Imagine a world in which every...
The One Best Thing
The cover of our book, The Body and Holy MassWhat is THE one, best thing any one of us can do for our children? It’s a gift that will never wear out or depreciate in value, never be donated to Goodwill, eaten by moths, or stolen from a vault. THE ONE BEST THING. It is...
The Serious Business of Heaven
When you consider a new recipe, you look at the picture of the finished dish. When you plan a vacation, you look at the photos of the hotel rooms before you book. When you interview for a new job, you meet your prospective co-workers, and ask yourself, “Would I...
The Battle for Our Hearts
We are at war. You are at war. The war is inside our hearts. If you are the sort of Catholic who subscribes to this blog, you already know this. But many don’t. And strangely, it is important that we tell them, especially the young people. They can’t effectively...