Spiritually stretching in the spring sunshine!

COVER STORY—Popular author and teacher Jon M. Sweeney turned to writing about the spiritual wisdom of cats several years ago for a series of books for young people about Christian traditions at the Vatican. That’s because Jon’s own life has been shaped by nine cats—who are the spiritual teachers in Jon’s new book for adults, Sit in the Sun: And Other Lessons in the Spiritual Wisdom of Cats. The book is a delightful journey through feline and human spiritual insights that you will want to try yourself as you read along with Jon’s (and his cats’) adventures.

Please, if you enjoy this cover story, share it with friends this week via social media and email. This is such a fun story that your friends will thank you for sharing the link!

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From our authors

Rodney Curtis—

‘Wishing Mom an Amazing 90th’

PHOTOGRAPHER and AUTHOR Rodney Curtis writes a heart-felt love letter to his Mom as she turns 90 and it’s well worth reading for anyone who wants to experience a bit of awe at the rapid movement of our global culture—and the movements many of us have joined to help shape that culture in positive ways. Within his tribute to his Mom, Rodney writes, “There’s so much to say about Joanne Curtis, but since the lady taught me how to cry, it’s impossible to write more without drenching my keyboard.”

Interested? Go read Rodney right now. And, then, maybe you might feel called to pick up the phone and call your own Mom!

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Howard Brown & Magie Cook—

Need Some Inspiration?

AUTHOR HOWARD BROWN specializes in weekly doses of sunshine in keeping with his life story, Shining Brightly. How does he do it? “It’s all about the relationships,” Howard writes this week in our Front Edge Publishing column. And he demonstrates the power of relationships in his new podcast with the amazing entrepreneur Magie Cook, who survived life as an impoverished street kid and rose to build a multi-million-dollar salsa business—then decided to “give back” herself.

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Bill Tammeus—

‘Why we keep track of violators of religious liberty’

THIS WEEK, author and veteran journalist Bill Tammeus reminds all of us that there are publicly available resources for tracking religious liberty around the world. Sharing information about these reports is one powerful way that everyday folks can help to promote religious freedom and protect vulnerable minorities, Bill writes.

“Religious freedom is guaranteed in our U.S. Constitution, but in a perfect world it wouldn’t need to be. That’s because it should be seen as a fundamental human right. It should be seen as that because it is precisely that—which is one reason our government pays attention to freedom of religion not just in the U.S. but around the world. … Even if most Americans don’t know about these reports, what we do know is that the countries that are violating the right to religious freedom know when one or both of those annual reports names them as perpetrators.”

Please click here to visit Bill’s website and read his entire column on violations of religious freedom.

And, while you’re visiting Bill’s website, you will also want to read his recent column about the Vatican coming to terms with its centuries of blindness toward the rights of native peoples.

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Holidays & Festivals

Cinco de Mayo

Celebrating Mexican Culture

HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS columnist Stephanie Fenton reports this week on the upcoming festival of Cinco de Mayo. She explains the historical milestone that touched off the American custom of celebrating May 5 each year—and she shares links to delicious Cinco de Mayo recipes!

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WANT TO SEE ALL OF THE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS?—It’s easy to find our annual calendar of global observances. Just remember the web address: InterfaithHolidays.com

 

 

 

 

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Faith & Film

ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with discussion guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.

Here are some of Ed’s most recent free reviews and columns:

• BILL W—(Streaming) Ed writes, “This is a respectful portrait of the man whose work saved millions of lives, but not a whitewash of his faults.”
• HIS ONLY SON—(In theaters)”Writer/director David Helling tackles one of the most difficult stories in his first feature film, the Genesis story of God’s command to Abraham to sacrifice his only son Isaac.”
• THE BLUE CAFTAN—(In theaters) “Moroccan writer-director Maryam Touzani handles as difficult a question for Muslims in his new film as it is for Christians—the love between members of the same sex that their culture condemns.”
• AIR—(In theaters) “In director Ben Afleck’s fifth film, the race is a heated one—a commercial race between three sneaker shoe companies: Converse, Adidas, and Nike.”
• LET ME HAVE MY SON—(In theaters) “Writer/director Cristobal Kruson’s newest film is a fictionalized story of his own spiritual journey that centers on his son’s descent into mental illness.”
• ON A WING AND A PRAYER—(Streaming on Amazon) “Sean McNamara’s film is based on a true story in which a seasoned pilot of a private twin-engined plane suffers a fatal heart attack.”
• THE LOST KING—(In theaters) “That truth is sometimes more bizarre than fiction is well demonstrated in Director Stephen Frears latest film, a historical detective story.”
• OPERATION MINCEMEAT—(Streaming on Netflix) “For those of us who missed 1956’s The Man Who Never Was, Netflix’s current film will introduce us to one of the great deceptions of WWII.”

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Seeing the Wind of the Holy Spirit as the 12-Step Movement Circles the World

COVER STORY—Millions of us know the 12-step movement as a lifeline in our families and communities. This week’s cover story features an interview with journalist and biographer Dawn Eden Goldstein who finally tells the true story of how “Father Ed” Dowling befriended Alcoholics Anonymous founder Bill W.—and influenced the global expansion of the 12-step movement. That’s quite an accomplishment, because many errors have accumulated about Father Ed’s life because of the lack of such a thorough biography until now. When Goldstein finished her research and was able to clear away misconceptions, she concluded that Father Ed should be considered for canonization. That’s not hyperbole, and she ends her book with a page explaining how people can help with that effort.

Please, because the influence of this movement is so widespread in our families and communities, share this cover story with friends and family this week via social media and email. You might help someone in a way that you didn’t expect!

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From our authors

Suzy Farbman—

A perfect example of one person reaching out to others

OUR BELOVED GodSigns COLUMNIST SUZY FARBMAN returns this week with a heart-felt ode to her 56th anniversary with her husband—a journey that has included trauma more than once. Please, read her column after you’ve read our cover story because it perfectly illustrates the power of one person to share a story that touches many other lives.

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Larry Buxton—

How our daily lives ‘affect people in a powerful way’

LEADERSHIP COACH and AUTHOR LARRY BUXTON has been exploring this theme of the many ways our everyday behavior—simple acts—shape the lives of others. His earlier “Leading with Spirit” column, The Doctor’s Mocha Medicine, sparked a lot of conversation among our readers.

That led Larry, this week, to write Your Mundane Ministry, which includes a story about U-Haul rentals. This week, both Suzy and Larry are eloquently illustrating a core theme in the new Father Ed biography: “The spiritual callings of lay people are as valuable as any formal vocation to sacred orders.”

If you enjoy Larry’s columns and videos, check out his book: 30 Days with King David—On Leadership.

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Holidays & Festivals

Yom Hashoah and a Recommitment to ‘Never Again’

HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS columnist Stephanie Fenton reminds us, in her coverage of Yom Hashoah, about the need to recommit ourselves to combat dangerous bigotry and to protect vulnerable minorities.

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Eid Sa’id!

THIS WEEK, Stephanie Fenton reports on the end of the fasting month of Ramadan in the celebration often known simply as “the Eid.”

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WANT TO SEE ALL OF THE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS?—It’s easy to find our annual calendar of global observances. Just remember the web address: InterfaithHolidays.com

 

 

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Faith & Film

ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with discussion guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.

Here are some of Ed’s most recent free reviews and columns:

• AIR—(In theaters) Ed writes, “In director Ben Afleck’s fifth film, the race is a heated one—a commercial race between three sneaker shoe companies: Converse, Adidas, and Nike.”
• LET ME HAVE MY SON—(In theaters) “Writer/director Cristobal Kruson’s newest film is a fictionalized story of his own spiritual journey that centers on his son’s descent into mental illness.”
• ON A WING AND A PRAYER—(Streaming on Amazon) “Sean McNamara’s film is based on a true story in which a seasoned pilot of a private twin-engined plane suffers a fatal heart attack.”
• THE LOST KING—(In theaters) “That truth is sometimes more bizarre than fiction is well demonstrated in Director Stephen Frears latest film, a historical detective story.”
• OPERATION MINCEMEAT—(Streaming on Netflix) “For those of us who missed 1956’s The Man Who Never Was, Netflix’s current film will introduce us to one of the great deceptions of WWII.”
• CLOSE—(Streaming) “‘Close’ well describes the friendship of two Belgian boys in Lukas Dhont‘s heartbreaking film.”
• THE QUIET GIRL—(Streaming) “Irish director Colm Bairead, with his co-writer Claire Keegan (author of the book the film is based on) has given us a touching story of a young girl from a dysfunctional family provided a chance to blossom despite her distracted parents.”

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Ways to preach harmony between humans and the natural world.

OUR COVER STORY this week looks ahead to Earth Day. Because we know that many of our readers are community leaders—including teachers, preachers, social service providers and media professionals—we are publishing Henry Brinton’s Earth Day column early enough in April so that you might consider his appeal. As a pastor himself, Henry focuses specifically on how leaders in congregations nationwide might approach this urgent milestone this year. Then, whether or not you are part of a congregation, this story also includes links to help you explore these issues further— including how to use the “Earthrise” photograph yourself, how to find out about the lengthy new UN-sponsored report and even how to find helpful international groups working on these issues already. Please, if you find Henry’s column helpful, share it with friends via social media and email.

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Passover continues this week

‘The Broken Matzoh’

RABBI LENORE BOHM—author of Torah Tutor: A Contemporary Torah Study Guide—writes about the symbolism of breaking a matzah to create the afikomen that is hidden during the Passover seder. In that ritual—which also involves inviting our children to search for that broken piece of matzah—families have an opportunity to think about ways we can heal from our own brokenness. Whatever your faith may be, there is wisdom in this column that you may want to share with your own friends and family this week.

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And so does Ramadan

HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS columnist Stephanie Fenton reported on the start of Ramadan 2023. And,  yes, Stephanie includes links to some delicious recipes that many Muslim families enjoy when they break their fast after sunset each night. Come back next week for a look at the huge celebration, the Eid, that accompanies the end of Ramadan around April 20 this year.

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WANT TO SEE ALL OF THE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS?—It’s easy to find our annual calendar of global observances. Just remember the web address: InterfaithHolidays.com

 

 

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From Our Authors—

Are you wondering what ordinary people can do?

THAT’S A MAJOR THEME OF THIS WEEK’S ISSUE—and it’s a theme we write about frequently in ReadTheSpirit magazine. Pastor, author and leadership coach Larry Buxton wrote up a wonderful, real-life illustration of this theme, headlined The Doctor’s Mocha Medicine. It’s well worth clicking on that link, which takes you to Larry’s website to read that column. This simple story may make you more aware, this week, of things you might do yourself to make this world a better place. Thanks Larry!

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And: Let’s look out for the safety of others

EMILY BROWN, who is now a TV reporter in Montana, had been a contributing columnist for our ReadTheSpirit magazine, specializing in the wonders of the natural world. These days, she’s also reporting on urgent issues such as highway safety in those gorgeous mountain landscapes. If you recall Emily’s work and want to catch up with her latest reporting: Here’s a story from the KPAX-TV website in which she warned Montana residents about a particularly deadly stretch of roadway—and you’ll likely be surprised by what happens as her road-side reporting begins.

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Faith & Film

ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with discussion guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.

Here are some of Ed’s most recent free reviews and columns:

• THE LOST KING—(In theaters) Ed writes, “That truth is sometimes more bizarre than fiction is well demonstrated in Director Stephen Frears latest film, a historical detective story.”
• KNOCK AT THE CABIN—(Streaming on Peacock) Ed writes, “The stakes in director M. Night Shyamalan’s new film, based on the 2018 novel by Paul Tremblay, are high. In most horror films it is just the survival of the protagonists, but in this tale it is nothing less than the survival of the whole world.”
• OPERATION MINCEMEAT—(Streaming on Netflix) “For those of us who missed 1956’s The Man Who Never Was, Netflix’s current film will introduce us to one of the great deceptions of WWII.”
• CLOSE—(Streaming) “‘Close’ well describes the friendship of two Belgian boys in Lukas Dhont‘s heartbreaking film.”
• THE QUIET GIRL—(Streaming) “Irish director Colm Bairead, with his co-writer Claire Keegan (author of the book the film is based on) has given us a touching story of a young girl from a dysfunctional family provided a chance to blossom despite her distracted parents.”
• ZORA NEALE HURSTON: CLAIMING A PLACE—(Streaming) This PBS-sponsored documentary is well worth streaming, Ed tells us.

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Of Easter Eggs
and Seder Plates
and the Reflections of Ramadan

‘The Broken Matzoh’

FIRST, RABBI LENORE BOHM—author of Torah Tutor: A Contemporary Torah Study Guide—writes about the symbolism of breaking a matzah to create the afikomen that is hidden during the Passover seder. In that ritual—which also involves inviting our children to search for that broken piece of matzah—families have an opportunity to think about ways we can heal from our own brokenness. Whatever your faith may be, there is wisdom in this column that you may want to share with your own friends and family this week.

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Brian McLaren tells the story of Easter morning

THEN, best-selling Christian author Brian McLaren shares a video this week in which he retells the Christian story of Easter morning. This is a video that Brian welcomes others to share via your own social media, emails or websites—so enjoy it right now and you may want to send it along to others.

OF COURSE, before Easter for Christians comes a series of Holy Week observances that are observed around the world each year. Our Holidays & Festivals columnist Stephanie Fenton reports: “Western Christians across the globe entered Holy Week on Palm Sunday, and begin the Easter Triduum—recounting the final days of Jesus’s life and Passion—on Thursday, with Holy (Maundy) Thursday, followed by Good Friday and Holy Saturday.” Stephanie’s column explains the diversity of observances in various branches of Christianity, including the use of “Stations of the Cross” and, for many Christians, an “Easter Vigil.”

Stephanie also reminds us that, while Western Christians (the majority of American Christians) are celebrating Easter on April 9, Eastern Orthodox Christians will mark the holiday one week later this year because of their different liturgical calendar.

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And, nearly 2 billion Muslims continue Ramadan

EARLIER, Stephanie reported on Ramadan 2023. And,  yes, Stephanie includes links to some delicious recipes that many Muslim families enjoy when they break their fast after sunset each night.

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WANT TO SEE ALL OF THE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS?—It’s easy to find our annual calendar of global observances. Just remember the web address: InterfaithHolidays.com

 

 

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From Our Authors—

Why pictures are important in studying American History

 

IN THIS WEEK’S Front Edge Publishing column, David Crumm recommends two books that are valuable for anyone wanting to learn American History—whether that’s as an ESL student preparing to become more engaged in American life or as a student simply hoping to pass rigorous American history classes. In both cases, learning about our shared history is a good deed. We’re all better off in these turbulent times if we have a shared understanding of what has brought our country to this point.

And, you may remember an earlier Front Edge column, inviting avid readers to come meet David Crumm over in the Goodreads community, a huge social media platform now owned by Amazon. In addition to David’s column in the Front Edge website, he also shares his thoughts about new books on Goodreads, including this review of a new Workman book about U.S. History. If you’re a regular reader of our online magazine, please feel free send David a “friend” request on Goodreads, too.

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Howard Brown and Shining Brightly

What is an ‘Iconic Life’?

THAT IS THE THEME of a national conference being held this week at a conference venue that’s part of Babson College in Massachusetts, the highly rated college that specializes in entrepreneurial studies—and is the alma matter of author Howard Brown. And, yes, he’s one of the speakers at this upcoming two-day event.

Since most of our readers don’t live near Massachusetts, Howard provides a podcast this week with the event’s host, Kris Whitehead, who also is an author and is the founder of a successful leadership-coaching business. This link will take you to Howard’s website, where you’ll find that podcast and more than a dozen earlier episodes as well.

And if you haven’t read Howard’s memoir, you’ll find it available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback and hardcover editions.

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Faith & Film

ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with discussion guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.

Here are some of Ed’s most recent free reviews and columns:

• KNOCK AT THE CABIN—(Streaming on Peacock) Ed writes, “The stakes in director M. Night Shyamalan’s new film, based on the 2018 novel by Paul Tremblay, are high. In most horror films it is just the survival of the protagonists, but in this tale it is nothing less than the survival of the whole world.”
• OPERATION MINCEMEAT—(Streaming on Netflix) “For those of us who missed 1956’s The Man Who Never Was, Netflix’s current film, directed by John Gladden and adapted by Michelle Ashford from the book by Ben Macintyre, will introduce us to one of the great deceptions of WWII.”
• CREED III—(In theaters) “There is no trace of Rocky Balboa in this, the ninth installment of the franchise that began with 1976’s Rocky. Like the other films, this one is not just about boxing, but about the personal struggles of the man wearing the gloves.”
• CLOSE—(Streaming) “‘Close’ well describes the friendship of two Belgian boys in Lukas Dhont‘s heartbreaking film.”
• THE QUIET GIRL—(Streaming) “Irish director Colm Bairead, with his co-writer Claire Keegan (author of the book the film is based on) has given us a touching story of a young girl from a dysfunctional family provided a chance to blossom despite her distracted parents.”
• JESUS REVOLUTION—(In theaters and streaming) Ed McNulty sees thematic parallels between this fictionalized look back at the ’60s Jesus movement and the dance movie Footloose.
• ZORA NEALE HURSTON: CLAIMING A PLACE—(Streaming) This PBS-sponsored documentary is well worth streaming, Ed tells us.

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A Timely Honor as Ramadan Begins for Muslims around the World

ENJOY THIS INSPIRING STORY IN VIDEO OR Q&A FORMAT: Our publishing house team is celebrating with Muslim author Najah Bazzy, who has been named one of USA Today’s Women of the Year.

Visit our Front Edge Publishing website to see a 3-minute video about Najah’s work, which is streaming courtesy of WXYZ-TV Channel 7, the ABC affiliate in southeast Michigan.

AND—right here in our Read the Spirit online magazine you can read the USA Today profile of Najah, including a Q and A with Najah about the major influences in her courageous life—and links to the other Women of the Year honorees nationwide.

Please share these inspiring “good news” stories with friends this week via social media and email.

Nearly 2 Billion Partake in Worldwide Fasting Month

HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS COLUMNIST Stephanie Fenton reports on Ramadan 2023. And,  yes, Stephanie includes links to some delicious recipes that many Muslim families enjoy when they break their fast after sunset each night.

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More Holidays & Festivals—

Hindus honor Lord Rama

AS STEPHANIE FENTON REPORTS—The story of Lord Rama has been read, recited, and reviewed by Hindus worldwide, during a period known as Ramayana Week—all leading up to the climactic festival, Ram Navami.

Passover is coming April 5

WITH ANTISEMITISM ON THE RISE, the annual Jewish-community practice of offering “model seders” is an important opportunity for non-Jewish community leaders to learn about the long tradition within Judaism of protecting religious freedom. The Jewish community in Michigan hosted such a seder for leaders of other religious groups as well as diplomats representing other countries around the world.

 

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WANT TO SEE ALL OF THE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS?—It’s easy to find our annual calendar of global observances. Just remember the web address: InterfaithHolidays.com

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From Our Authors—

Larry Buxton

Do You Really See That Person?

IN HIS LEADING WITH SPIRIT video this week, Larry Buxton springs from a Gospel story of Jesus’s deep attention to the people he encountered—to a reflection on the recent death of his brother Craig. It’s a moving reminder that we all need to open our eyes, ears and hearts to the people we meet each week. In fact, Larry tells us, “We learn that seeing doesn’t begin with eyesight—it begins with insight.” You may want to share this wise video with friends this week.

AND BY THE WAY, if you’re looking for great inspirational reading for the balance of Lent, you may want a copy of Larry’s Thirty Days with King David: On Leadership.

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Howard Brown and Shining Brightly

Consider these pathways to greater awareness

IF LARRY BUXTON’S ‘INSIGHT’ is leading you toward expanding your awareness of others, check out Shining Brightly author Howard Brown’s latest podcasts this week. This link will take you to Howard’s website, where you’ll find a new podcast with Claudia-Sam Cataford Sauvé, your Soul Connection Coach and Yoga Master—as well as a podcast with Francois Lupien, a noted motivational speaker who also is a gold medal Tae Kwon Do Canadian champion.

And if you haven’t read Howard’s memoir, you’ll find it available on Amazon in Kindle, paperback and hardcover editions.

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Bill Tammeus on Barbara Mahany

‘Paying Attention to Everything the World Offers Up’

CONTINUING THE THEME that Larry and Howard are exploring this week, journalist Bill Tammeus reviews Barbara Mahany’s new The Book of Nature for the Earthbeat section of The National Catholic Reporter. Click here to visit that website to read Bill’s full review. In last week’s issue of ReadTheSpirit magazine, we featured an interview with Barbara as our Cover Story. Meanwhile, Bill was completing his own column on this remarkable new Book of Nature. In his column, Bill urges readers to get a copy of Barbara’s new book. Why? Because, he writes: “Mahany asks readers to do something Buddhists have been urging the world to do for centuries: Pay attention, be mindful. In other words, walk neither on a city sidewalk nor on a path through the forest with your eyes focused on your smartphone. She issues a call to notice the sacred and the inexplicable all around.”

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Faith & Film

ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with discussion guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.

Here are some of Ed’s most recent free reviews and columns:

• KNOCK AT THE CABIN—(Streaming on Peacock) Ed writes, “The stakes in director M. Night Shyamalan’s new film, based on the 2018 novel by Paul Tremblay, are high. In most horror films it is just the survival of the protagonists, but in this tale it is nothing less than the survival of the whole world.”
• OPERATION MINCEMEAT—(Streaming on Netflix) “For those of us who missed 1956’s The Man Who Never Was, Netflix’s current film, directed by John Gladden and adapted by Michelle Ashford from the book by Ben Macintyre, will introduce us to one of the great deceptions of WWII.”
• CREED III—(In theaters) “There is no trace of Rocky Balboa in this, the ninth installment of the franchise that began with 1976’s Rocky. Like the other films, this one is not just about boxing, but about the personal struggles of the man wearing the gloves.”
• CLOSE—(Streaming) “‘Close’ well describes the friendship of two Belgian boys in Lukas Dhont‘s heartbreaking film.”
• THE QUIET GIRL—(Streaming) “Irish director Colm Bairead, with his co-writer Claire Keegan (author of the book the film is based on) has given us a touching story of a young girl from a dysfunctional family provided a chance to blossom despite her distracted parents.”
• JESUS REVOLUTION—(In theaters and streaming) Ed McNulty sees thematic parallels between this fictionalized look back at the ’60s Jesus movement and the dance movie Footloose.
• ZORA NEALE HURSTON: CLAIMING A PLACE—(Streaming) This PBS-sponsored documentary is well worth streaming, Ed tells us.

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Exploring ‘God of a thousand voices, a thousand lights and gazillions of colors’

THIS WEEK, OUR COVER STORY is a new interview with author Barbara Mahany, whose books about everyday spirituality challenges us to see the world around us with new eyes. In her new Book of Nature, Barbara dazzles readers with spiritual adventures we can discover among natural wonders in our own back yards.

Please enjoy this cover story about ‘The Book of Nature’ and take a moment to share it with friends via social media and email.

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From our authors—

Daniel Buttry on Dr. Gustavo Parajón

Sometimes, our books literally help the needy

THIS WEEK, Daniel Buttry—the co-author of Healing the World: Gustavo Parajón, Public Health and Peacemaking Pioneer helps us to explain why this book quite literally helps needy families in Nicaragua. Please read this Front Edge Publishing column and consider ordering a copy of this inspiring biography of Parajón.

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Howard Brown and Shining Brightly

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

THIS WEEK, Howard Brown’s Shining Brightly podcast series focuses on the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer. In Howard’s life, it was a routine screening that spotted his advanced cancer and allowed his team of doctors to chart a course that helped him to survive. Had he been screened even earlier, Howard now tells audiences nationwide, his struggle would not have been so dire. Had he not been screened at all, he would have died.

That’s why this message is so urgent, Howard tells everyone he can reach. This link will take you to Howard’s website, ShiningBrightly.com, where you’ll find a podcast with Ron Perry, the Executive Vice-President of Micro-Tech Endoscopy, which is saving lives, providing better quality patient care and making healthcare more value-driven. While you’re there, you’ll also find a new conversation with wellness expert Michelle Sugiyaman on “Mindful Nutrition.”

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Holidays & Festivals

Passover is coming April 5

Jewish Communities host ‘model seders’ to spread the message of religious freedom

WITH ANTISEMITISM ON THE RISE, the annual Jewish-community practice of offering “model seders” is an important opportunity for non-Jewish community leaders to learn about the long tradition within Judaism of protecting religious freedom. This week, the Jewish community in Michigan hosted such a seder for leaders of other religious groups as well as diplomats representing other countries around the world.

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In the midst of Lent

STEPHANIE FENTON  has written about the start of Western Lent and about Clean Monday, when the Eastern Orthodox churches begin their Great Fast of Lent.

Looking for inspirational reading for Lent? If you have not already enjoyed Our Lent: Things We Carry by David Crumm, you can find that daily reader in paperback and Kindle editions on Amazon. Also, for Lent 2023, we also are recommending Rachel Srubas’ thoughtful new book, The Desert of Compassion, which we featured in a Read the Spirit Cover Story in early February this year.

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WANT TO SEE ALL OF THE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS?—It’s easy to find our annual calendar of global observances. Just remember the web address: InterfaithHolidays.com

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Faith & Film

ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with discussion guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.

Here are some of Ed’s most recent free reviews and columns:

• KNOCK AT THE CABIN—(Streaming on Peacock) Ed writes, “The stakes in director M. Night Shyamalan’s new film, based on the 2018 novel by Paul Tremblay, are high. In most horror films it is just the survival of the protagonists, but in this tale it is nothing less than the survival of the whole world.”
• OPERATION MINCEMEAT—(Streaming on Netflix) “For those of us who missed 1956’s The Man Who Never Was, Netflix’s current film, directed by John Gladden and adapted by Michelle Ashford from the book by Ben Macintyre, will introduce us to one of the great deceptions of WWII.”
• CREED III—(In theaters) “There is no trace of Rocky Balboa in this, the ninth installment of the franchise that began with 1976’s Rocky. Like the other films, this one is not just about boxing, but about the personal struggles of the man wearing the gloves.”
• CLOSE—(Streaming) “‘Close’ well describes the friendship of two Belgian boys in Lukas Dhont‘s heartbreaking film.”
• THE QUIET GIRL—(Streaming) “Irish director Colm Bairead, with his co-writer Claire Keegan (author of the book the film is based on) has given us a touching story of a young girl from a dysfunctional family provided a chance to blossom despite her distracted parents.”
• JESUS REVOLUTION—(In theaters and streaming) Ed McNulty sees thematic parallels between this fictionalized look back at the ’60s Jesus movement and the dance movie Footloose.
• ZORA NEALE HURSTON: CLAIMING A PLACE—(Streaming) This PBS-sponsored documentary is well worth streaming, Ed tells us.

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The Quest for Authenticity in Christian Community

THIS BOOK IS ABOUT MORE THAN GENDER—For most readers, the compelling reason to read this new book by Cynthia Vacca Davis is to learn what it feels like when people find themselves exiled from the iron gates of rigid religious communities. There are millions of these refugees all across America. If you are not one of those refugees yourself, Cynthia’s book explains to the rest of us—including active members in the many churches that welcome minorities—that some of our Christian neighbors may be carrying profound wounds as they try to find new homes. Even as we extend a welcoming hand to these exiles, years may pass before those wounds heal, if ever.

Please, read this overview of Cynthia’s new book and share it with friends who could use this good news, this week.

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From our authors—

 

Daniel Buttry on Gustavo Parajón

This Peacemaker’s Story Is Circling the World

THIS WEEK, everyone involved in the global effort to publish Healing the World: Gustavo Parajón, Public Health and Peacemaking Pioneer is sharing news about the timeliness of Parajón’s story. As his inspiring biography spreads around the world, the entire team of collaborators on this publishing project (from the UK to the US and Latin America) is praying for former President Jimmy Carter and his family, since Carter played such a crucial role in Parajón’s life and the former president recently endorsed Parajón’s memoir. Please, share this story with friends this week.

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Gen. James Dozier

Hear the inspiring interview

PODCASTER GREG KRINO, who interviews guests with special insights into leadership and resilience, this week posted an hour-long podcast with retired Major General James Dozier, author of a memoir that touches on both of those themes: Finding My Polestar. In the 1980s, Dozier was held by terrorists in Italy, the highest-ranking U.S. soldier to have undergone such an ordeal. Dozier’s memoir tells his story, focusing on the list principles (collectively the “polestar”) that guides him through life and helped him to survive his captivity.

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Howard Brown

Surviving Stress

THIS WEEK, Howard Brown’s Shining Brightly podcast series turns to a challenge millions of us grapple with every week: surviving stress.

This link will take you to Howard’s website, ShiningBrightly.com, where you’ll find a podcast with Dr. Peggy Gleason, headlined “Rise from the Ashes of Burnout.” And you’ll find a podcast with Dr. Mort Orman, called “Your Ultimate Guide to Dealing with Stress.”

Care to learn even more about resiliency in the midst of stress? Howard is taking part in a March 19-23 online event—a five-day series of talks streamed by more than a dozen experts under the banner, Stress Control Summit. Here’s a link to sign up for free streaming of events in this series.

Of course, there’s an even easier way to learn from Howard about resilience. Get a copy of his book, Shining Brightly, from Amazon. In the summit later this week, he will be talking about some of the stories in that memoir.

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Rodney Curtis

 

Look up! Look up!

THE NEW ZEALAND TRILOGY concludes this week at author-and-photographer Rodney Curtis’ website. Want to learn more about this creative guy and his adventures? Check out Rodney’s Amazon Author Page.

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Holidays & Festivals

 

Got your Green ready?

AS HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS columnist Stephanie Fenton reports: “Around the world this week, revelers will remember the legendary Saint Patrick of Ireland, while embracing Irish culture through food, music, costuming and more.” (And, yes, she’s got links again this year to various versions of the famous Breastplate.)

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2023 World Sabbath of Religious Reconciliation

IF YOU ARE IN MICHIGAN ON MARCH 19, 2023—You’ll love this colorful, diverse celebration of peaceful affirmations from many different faith traditions. Click on this link to visit the World Sabbath website for more details on the event, which will be held at Temple Israel in West Bloomfield, Michigan, this year.

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In the midst of Lent

STEPHANIE FENTON  has written about the start of Western Lent and about Clean Monday, when the Eastern Orthodox churches begin their Great Fast of Lent.

Looking for inspirational reading for Lent? If you have not already enjoyed Our Lent: Things We Carry by David Crumm, you can find that daily reader in paperback and Kindle editions on Amazon. Also, for Lent 2023, we also are recommending Rachel Srubas’ thoughtful new book, The Desert of Compassion, which we featured in a Read the Spirit Cover Story in early February this year.

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WANT TO SEE ALL OF THE UPCOMING HOLIDAYS & FESTIVALS?—It’s easy to find our annual calendar of global observances. Just remember the web address: InterfaithHolidays.com

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Faith & Film

ED McNULTY, for decades, has published reviews, magazine articles and books exploring connections between faith and film. Most of his work is freely published. Ed supports his work by selling the Visual Parables Journal, a monthly magazine packed with discussion guides to films. This resource is used coast-to-coast by individuals who love the movies and by educators, clergy and small-group leaders.

Here are some of Ed’s most recent free reviews and columns:

• JESUS REVOLUTION—(In theaters and streaming) Ed McNulty sees thematic parallels between this fictionalized look back at the ’60s Jesus movement and the dance movie Footloose.
• ZORA NEALE HURSTON: CLAIMING A PLACE—(Streaming) This PBS-sponsored documentary is well worth streaming, Ed tells us.
• MR. AND MRS. LOVING—(Streaming on Amazon) Ed suggests that viewers who appreciated the 2016 film Loving may want to reach back to 1996 and see this earlier film about the same couple who struggled to break racial barriers.
• IN VIAGGIO: THE TRAVELS OF POPE FRANCIS—(In theaters) “As former President Jimmy Carter leaves the public stage it is good to be reminded that another elderly peacemaker is still going strong, the Pope, who takes seriously his namesake’s mission to the poor.”
• THE BANSHEES OF INISHERIN—(In theaters and streaming on HBO) Ed writes, “Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson are at the top of their form as villagers at loggerheads.“
• DEVOTION—(Streaming on Paramount+) “Director J.D. Dillard along with screenwriters Jake Crane and Jonathan Stewart have given us a fact-based film that commemorates a friendship that transcended the racial barriers of the times.”
• RRR—(Streaming on Netflix) “Set in British-ruled India in 1920 S.S. Rajamouli’s spectacular film is a patriotic reworking of history from which Mahatma Gandhi is totally absent.”
• WOMEN TALKING—(In theaters) “Sarah Polley’s newest film, which she wrote as well as directed, was adapted by Polley from Miriam Toews’ 2018 novel of the same name.”

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