Columns

  • The dangers in being a warrior prophet

    Dec 02, 2016

    A prophet makes a vow of love, not of alienation. Daniel Berrigan wrote those words and they need to be highlighted today when a lot of very sincere, committed, religious people self-define as cultural warriors, as prophets at war with secular culture.

  • Overcoming fear; lighting a candle in the dark

    Dec 02, 2016

    In these troubling times, it is important to remember the words of Jesus: “Do not be afraid.”

  • Why dark nights of the soul?

    Nov 25, 2016

    Atheism is a parasite that feeds on bad religion. That’s why, in the end, atheistic critics are our friends. They hold our feet to the fire.

  • The miracle of Bersih 5

    Nov 25, 2016

    Despite all the anxious moments, despite the many threats of violence, it is something of a miracle that Bersih 5 took place peacefully, that violence was averted.

  • The real presence

    Nov 18, 2016

    When I was a graduate student in Belgium, I was privileged one day to sit in on a conference given by Cardinal Godfried Danneels of Brussels.

  • A bright yellow Light shines forth in the Darkness

    Nov 18, 2016

    In this Sunday's second reading, we are called to give thanks with joy to the Father who has made us to share in the lot of God’s people and inherit the light.

  • Our resistance to love

    Nov 11, 2016

    There’s nothing simple about being a human being. We’re a mystery to ourselves and, often, our own worst enemies. Our inner complexity befuddles us and, not infrequently, stymies us. Nowhere is this truer than in our struggle with love and intimacy.

  • Why are so many unemployed?

    Nov 11, 2016

    How often have children been told, especially in Eastern cultures, that if they don’t study hard, they will end up as rubbish collectors, road sweepers and gardeners. Until today, many parents hope their children will become doctor, engineers, lawyers, accountants, etc.

  • Boredom – a fault within ourselves

    Nov 08, 2016

    In 2011, a book by a young writer, Bieke Vandekerckhove, won the award as The Spiritual Book of the Year in her native Belgium.

  • Decentralising the economy and creating work with appropriate technology

    Nov 03, 2016

    The recently revealed Budget 2017 highlights the challenging times we live in. While BR1M spending has been raised, budget cuts elsewhere, such as in our public universities will make life difficult for many.