John Freund, CM
Author
![Lourdes and the Common Extremism of the Saints](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2024/02/extremist-FI.jpg?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
Lourdes and the Common Extremism of the Saints
In theory, and to some degree by nature, I tend to resist extremist views whether liberal or conservative. I still remember my mother stressing “der goldener mittleweg” – the golden middle way.
![My thinking about Lent has changed](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2024/02/Pay-attention.jpg?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
My thinking about Lent has changed
Over the last 30 years, I have been learning to pay attention to the opportunities hidden in the events of my life.
![Valentine’s Day, Baptism, and Eucharist?](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2024/02/love-FI.jpg?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
Valentine’s Day, Baptism, and Eucharist?
At one level we say you can’t put a price tag on love. But at another level, Americans alone spend well over 20 billion on celebrating love on a day called Valentine’s Day.
![Challenges of Change](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2022/01/challenges-of-change-series-featured.jpg?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
Challenges of Change
Did you notice the graphic with this post? Before reading further I suggest you stop for at least 60 seconds to let it speak to you…What, if anything did it say to you?
![Master Class – Encounter Between Old and Young](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2021/01/simeon-presentation1.jpg?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
Master Class – Encounter Between Old and Young
Upon seeing the Lord enter his temple, they are enlightened by the Holy Spirit and recognize him as the child whom Mary carries in her arms. They had been waiting for him all their lives.
![“Insiders” With Closed Minds; “Outsiders” Who Were Open](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2024/02/Minds-FI.jpg?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
“Insiders” With Closed Minds; “Outsiders” Who Were Open
I don’t think I can ever again read Luke’s account of Jesus’ rejection in his hometown (4:21-30) without thinking of Pope Francis’ homily.
![I Never Knew I Missed the Point!](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2024/01/beam-in-eye-FI.jpg?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
I Never Knew I Missed the Point!
Have you ever been in a conversation where someone missed your point? I certainly have. Also, more times than I care to admit, I have been the one who missed the point.
![The Gift of Vincent’s Charism](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2022/01/Gift-generic-FI.png?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
The Gift of Vincent’s Charism
Indeed, Vincent left a wonderful gift to the Church.We all know and appreciate his passion for the poor. His foundations came out of his passion for the poor.
![Ever Wonder About Jesus’ Kindergarten?](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2024/01/Kindergarten.jpg?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
Ever Wonder About Jesus’ Kindergarten?
There is so much I don’t know about the family we call The Holy Family and … Our Lady of Nazareth.
![Your Favorite Image of God](https://b704496.smushcdn.com/704496/en/files/2022/01/creation-dream-FI.png?lossy=2&strip=1&webp=1)
Your Favorite Image of God
Every family has favorites. Actually, there may be many favorites in a family depending on who you ask and their level of honesty.