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Archive: Margaret O'Brien Steinfels
Hyperbole, vitriol and death by crucifixion
You have to wonder if the Roman Catholic Church circa 2010 is what Jesus had in mind as he hung on the cross. Probably not. On the other hand, the current explosion is likely not a surprise to him.
By Margaret O'Brien Steinfels | April 1, 2010; 09:21 AM ET | Comments (10)
No minarets? Fear and trembling
Is this religious intolerance? Or is it the expression of deep-seated fear that Islamic extremists are the tip of an Islamic iceberg longing to restore the caliphate and extend itself to the Alps and beyond? Deep-seated fears and intolerance feed on one another. The Swiss vote shows that otherwise rational people with Enlightenment values living in a modern society are capable of expressing those fears, in fact, in a democratic manner.
By Margaret O'Brien Steinfels | December 2, 2009; 11:41 AM ET | Comments (3)
Could we call it Dog Day?
If the American Humanist Association feels a specific "Godless Holiday," would offer them a place in the pantheon of religious holidays, we should let them have it. Though Congress might balk at the enabling legislation, marketing people would go for it. Good luck and God bless you!
By Margaret O'Brien Steinfels | November 23, 2009; 01:28 PM ET | Comments (5)
Reality check on our finitude
My father died in a hospice. I loved the quiet room where he lay unconscious, freed from feeding bags and transfusions and from the noises of a busy hospital. I could sit and sing to him, talk to him, say goodbye in utter certainty that he was at peace and so was I.
By Margaret O'Brien Steinfels | November 4, 2009; 12:49 PM ET | Comments (0)
Catholics and Anglicans: Related but can they live together?
Will even the most conservative Episcopalian contemplating a move to Rome accept the centralized authority of Roman Catholicism where bishops and pastors are appointed and decision come top down? And will Roman Catholics be content with the Episcopal propensity for doctrinal latitude and disciplinary ambiguity?
By Margaret O'Brien Steinfels | October 23, 2009; 11:42 AM ET | Comments (12)
