Flashes

  • The need for creeds—reimagining Nicaea

    Creeds are not museum pieces. Without reinterpretation, their power wanes. Francis’ short statement reminds us that doctrine isn’t just preservation—it’s proclamation, shaped anew by every generation that dares to believe in a God still active in human history.

    The need for creeds—reimagining Nicaea
  • Tailor-made mission

    To be truly catholic today means empowering the local church, listening to its context, and embracing its authority to act. Mission begins—and must be discerned—right where the people of God live and serve.

    Tailor-made mission
  • When Catholic mission moved at a crawl

    In the 16th century, it could take years for messages between Rome and Asia to arrive — if they arrived at all. Local missionaries made critical decisions without central guidance. Faster communications give rise to centralised authority.

    When Catholic mission moved at a crawl
  • Vatican to village

    The Synodal vision must stretch from local communities to the highest Vatican offices. It’s not just about what happens in Rome—it’s about transformation everywhere the Church is present.

    Vatican to village
  • Stories that shape lives

    When people share stories of change, they often whisper encouragement. Such stories remind us that life is not fixed; it can shift, grow, and surprise. They open the door to hope and show us how to glimpse possibilities beyond ourselves.

    Stories that shape lives
  • Deathonomics: Russia’s new economy

    Russia’s war economy has lifted many out of poverty, but at a devastating cost. Families of the dead receive enormous payouts, far beyond normal earnings. Death has become an economic force, blurring the line between tragedy and opportunity.

    Deathonomics: Russia’s new economy
  • Basic synodality means answering correspondence

    Bishops often see responding to correspondence as beyond their role. Yet synodality requires it. By treating correspondence as integral to their ministry, leaders show respect for the faithful. Two-way communication is not optional; it is essential to authentic synodal practice.

    Basic synodality means answering correspondence
  • Tale of two tables: exclusion or abundance

    The Eucharist is not only a memorial sacrifice but also the sign of a synodal church. Celebrations that exclude the assembly risk betraying its meaning, while abundant tables, like in Würzburg, reflect the unity and mission Vatican II envisioned.

    Tale of two tables: exclusion or abundance
  • New Lectionary promises inclusive language

    A new Lectionary in Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand signifies a renewed commitment to ensure that Scripture is proclaimed with inclusivity, accessibility, and depth. It invites the faithful to recognise the living word as central to liturgy, identity, and mission.

    New Lectionary promises inclusive language
  • Starving children in Gaza and the pro-life movement?

    Children suffer bombings, amputations, and starvation? Why are their lives not defended with the same passion? The absence of protest in the face of these horrors raises an uncomfortable question.

    Starving children in Gaza and the pro-life movement?

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