The Mustard Seed: Graduation ends a journey of pure joy

Graduating from high school or university can be a poignant moment in life’s journey. It typically marks a transition from one lifestyle to another.

Comment: Canada will be a full service death industry if we euthanize the mentally ill

During the summer I decided to take a break from speaking about euthanasia. There were several reasons. First, it was getting more and more difficult to find groups that were interested in hearing the anti-euthanasia message. Then when something was arranged only a handful of people would show up.

Comment: Weinstein a symptom of an even uglier issue

The exposure of movie mogul Harvey Weinstein’s sordid sexual predator secret is ripping the mask off the sinister nature of our supposed surprise as well.

Amid violence streets still have their moments of grace

There are few, if any, parishes in Toronto that had three shooting deaths in the first month of the year and followed them up with two more in the next few months. Add to this an epidemic of drug overdoses and a picture of lawlessness could emerge.

Faith in civil discourse waxes, then wanes

When this column cited a vicious smear campaign against Fr. James Martin, it was expected that some people would disagree with his call to build a bridge of dialogue between the Church and the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. It was also expected some would agree with his call for civil discourse. Naturally, both things occurred.

Comment: Are we a Church of slobs and mediocrity?

Mark Shea thinks the Catholic Church is a vast accumulation of slobs and mediocrities. He means it as a compliment. He contends it brings us closer to Christ.

Comment: It's through giving that our humanity is fully realized

The mountain ash tree in our front yard is at the peak of its autumn brilliance. I sit on the couch in our living room awed by the array of gold, green, yellow and red.

Comment: Instead of fear take time to listen to refugees

There’s a scent of fear wafting from recent headlines in Canada. Are we afraid of Haitian families?

Comment: Priest caught in vicious smear campaign

Fr. James Martin, an American Jesuit, author and media personality, has appeared in this column before for his humour and humility, including his intimate 465-page portrait Jesus: A Pilgrimage.

First place to look for blame is in mirror

26th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Oct. 1 (Year A) Ezekiel 18:25-28; Psalm 25; Philippians 2:1-11; Matthew 21:28-32

God is unfair! When things do not go as we expect or want, or when we meet adversity, this accusation is often hurled heavenward.

Comment: Immigrants vital to growth of the Church in Canada

A celebration planned by the Canadian Goan Christian Group for St. Joseph’s parish in Mississauga on Oct. 14 will highlight the role that immigrants play in keeping the Church in Canada alive and vibrant.