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.
Face of a Franciscan
September 1, 2011 by | Leave a Comment
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.”
A Silent Movie
June 15, 2011 by | Leave a Comment
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.”
A Saint’s Advice
February 3, 2011 by |
St. Antony counsels us to meditate continually on the Apostle Paul’s words, “Let not the sun go down upon your wrath” (Eph. 4:26).
Softening Hearts
November 27, 2010 by |
I lost my composure. During Thanksgiving Mass. This is what happened…
The Satisfaction of an Apology
November 21, 2010 by |
Last week, as I conferred with staff from the Los Angeles Archdiocese during a conference, the topic of apology arose; then, this past week, apology also arose in a discussion on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Facebook page.
Healing Wounds at Ground Zero
August 23, 2010 by |
It does not surprise me that conflict has escalated in response to plans for building a mosque near Ground Zero. From the perspective of faith-based diplomacy, unhealed historical wounds can be expected to give rise to conflict: this is the norm, not something unexpected.
Mosque in Manhattan
August 18, 2010 by |
The recent dispute regarding plans to build a mosque in Manhattan near “Ground Zero” demonstrates the need for mediated learning conversations that address flashpoints in society. Once such disputes are placed in front of the polarizing lenses of the media, the task of reconciliation becomes more difficult.
Upside Down But Rooted
August 5, 2010 by |
St. Bonaventure, in the introduction to The Tree of Life, notes the value of imagination: “…imagination aids understanding.”
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.