Perspectives
Articles, essays, and reflections from progressive Catholic voices.
To contribute to Perspectives or submit an article, contact cta@cta-usa.org.
My President and My Pope
CTA Staffer John Canales Gorczynski, was at the White House this morning at a reception for Pope Francis and President Barack Obama. The following is his reflection.
On Pilgrimage
Today 12 families are embarking on a pilgrimage to the World Meeting of Families to talk to people and remind them that families come in all kinds of configurations. That LBGT people have loving relationships that are blessed by God.
A 9/11 Reflection: Kindness to a Stranger
It was on that day that I saw both the awfulness of human nature and the brilliant light of humanity that allowed them to be loving and caring to strangers in their midst.
Making Annulments Easier - Is It Enough?
Would the Pope’s procedural change have made a difference for Sally? Probably not. Will it somehow heal the embarrassment and humiliation she endured in the pastor’s office? Doubtful. Might it impact future Sally’s? Perhaps, but I am not convinced.
Sister Ocean
I didn't know rejection and oppression I was to face from the Church and Church officials, just because of “which gender identity I know I am”. I simply rejoiced in the finding of Ocean welcoming back the waters from different sources and I rejoiced the hug I received from Creator through sister Ocean and her waves.
Optional Forgiveness
As Pope Francis admits with beautiful words of compassion, abortion is far from black and white. There are layers of complexities that surround a woman’s decision.
Circling Up
Solidarity is always defined by the group being allied with, not those allying themselves.
A Prayer for the Care of Creation
Today, Sept. 1, is the World Day of Prayer for Care of Creation, established by Pope Francis. Here is a prayer for creation from the pope's encyclical, Laudato Si.
Having Faith in the Future
On August 26, 1920, women were finally granted the ability to vote and to hold public office in the United States. In some ways 95 years seems like a long time but it is just one lifetime ago. I think of my grandmother who recently passed away at age 98. When she was born, women could not vote.
A Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation
On September 1, I will kneel with Pope Francis and pray for our spinning blue-green home and that all those inhabiting it will treat it with the respect and care it is due.