Dr. Edward Eismann structured Unitas around surrogate families—groups of teens and younger children assigned to care for each other in cascading mentorship that also supported birth families. As they spoke at the funeral home, those who had grown up in Unitas testified to its profound influence in their life.

In times of reflection, when Francis of Assisi asked himself what would be the most important qualities for his followers to have, he would focus on one or another of the brothers who were already by his side. I, too, have a list of virtues that I prize. Mine, however, is a list of what I want to see in those I have to deal with when I am trying to get things done.

Neighbor before house, the house is gone. Neighbor before house, here is some food we managed to find. Neighbor before house, at least we have each other.

The rectory is dead. Long live the rectory!

The action of the Holy Spirit is in our world is utterly unsettling and transformative.

The mystery of God constantly surrounds us. How do we imagine God at work in our lives?