June 17, 2026

When every day there are headlines that cause us concern and anxiety about the state of the world, the well being of others, and the future of the planet, let us remember to take breaks for spiritual refreshment. The peace of the Lord is always there for us if we tune in. We may simply turn our internal eyes’ gaze toward Jesus and the heavenly hosts, or we may simply for a moment listen to the Gospel message of peace. Jesus extends his flowing robes, and these offer us comfort. Or if we are so inclined, simply enoy some moments of mindful meditation, that is fine too and encourages peace and compassion. This is for our spiritual well being. It is not at all a cop out, forgetting or turning our backs on issues or injustices that need our attention, but rather it is refreshment for the journey.  This is far more effective for true relaxation and stress reduction than going straight to watching a video or playing a game on your phone, and it furthers the spiritual movement that can actually help the world.

In modern life especially, we are taxed to our limits with demands for our attention, with tasks that need completion, and with the rat race of ordinary life. In the midst of this, take time for reflection and peace.  That peace is always there for you, just tune in and allow yourself some rest. 

Pope Leo speaks truly about the quest for peace and the thirst for justice. He offers hope and a path forward. His general audiences, addresses, and his recent encyclical Magnifica Humanitas on how to maintain human dignity in the era of artificial intelligence are all available online in print and in listening formats. Moreover there are other spiritual leaders who speak about peace, compassion, justice, and hope. Let us all turn our ears and our minds towards teachers such as these, so that in unity of heart we may go forward.  Amen.