For Catholics who want to see immediate changes in the church, the synod was an opportunity for conversion.

“The second and final session of the Synod on Synodality has just concluded,” Father James Martin writes. “And what I noticed most this year is how much the attitude toward L.G.B.T.Q. issues has changed—and for the good.”

Contemplative prayer challenges us to find meaning in suffering. I view this way of praying as the ultimate act of trust in God.

If my students remain true to the values of our Jesuit institution, but more importantly their identities as children of God, then I believe they can handle whatever our election season may bring.

My journey also taught me unexpected lessons about how to lead while holding the past, present and future in mind.

The time is short: two weeks until this election. Can we change these candidates’ minds? I don’t know. Can faithful Catholics get their attention? Yes.