You can always tell when I’m nearing the end of a book project. All the signs of a small bookcase explosion. Actually, this is what it looks like in my office right now, as I put together the resource section for Everyday Divine: A Catholic Guide to Active Prayer, which will be released later this year. Still some finishing touches to go before the manuscript is complete. Stay far away until you’ve received further notice.

As we cross the threshold of a new year, can we embrace what's ahead — with all its messiness and challenge — and offer ourselves and our world compassion ...