Justice Illustration by Tracy Stone

The Wolf and Canon Law

In mediation the spirit of the law does not remain an abstract philosophical factor but rather is brought to life by the workings of the Holy Spirit.

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Sun and Rays Illustration

Face of a Franciscan

Face Work is a social science discipline that studies a person’s need to Save Face, Protect Face, and Restore Face, thus managing threats to their social image, identity, or standing. The ultimate tool for effective Face Work is hinted at in friar Murray Bodo’s phrase “the Face of a Franciscan.”

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Men Knocking on Door Illustration by Tracy Stone

Healing Our Own House

Let us listen to the words of our Holy Father Benedict XVI exhorting young people to go forth and bring Christ’s peace to the world… and realize we are called to renew our vows to do the same.

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Heart Illustration

Peace Begins with a Heart at Peace

The Taming the Wolf approach to conflict resolution begins with transformation of self that brings about awareness of the divine within. The process then moves to a recognition of the divine within the Other, resulting in an I-Thou relationship.

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Wolf Stalking Illustration by Tracy Stone

Justice for Priests

A noisy conflict between Father John Corapi and his Diocese and Religious Order has focused a spotlight on challenges facing the Catholic Church in the wake of the abuse scandals. The conflict highlights a need for improved methods of dispensing justice.

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San Damiano Cross Illustration

A Silent Movie

Ron Austin, Hollywood screenwriter, delivering a commencement address at Dominican School of Philosophy & Theology, offered a thought provoking idea: “I think we American Catholics are now called to create a ‘silent movie’ of who we are—that is, a living, visible alternative way of life.”

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Raised Fist Illustration

Saint Peter’s Dilemma

In previous posts I addressed deception. Many assume deception must be handled in an adversarial “gotcha” manner, complete with a Perry Mason moment that exposes the deceitful party.

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Tree with Roots Illustration

Find the Spring

St. Augustine offered wise advice that can help sum up my last few blog posts in which I considered problems arising from deception.

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Raised Fist Illustration

Detoxification

In the latest edition of St. Anthony Messenger, the magazine’s editor, Pat McCloskey OFM, calls for “Detoxifying our Political Disagreements.” This is a worthy sentiment.

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Cloud and Star Illustration

The Spiritual Conversation

In Taming the Wolf mediation begins when the mediator asks “what happened?” It begins when parties “tell their story.”

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