For 25 years the Ignatian Family Teach-In has brought Jesuit educated young people together to learn more about the history of U.S. involvement in Central America and how Jesuit values can help them understand contemporary demands of social justice.

“Haitian people are living in what may be easily compared to hell,” Jean Denis Saint Félix, S.J., says. “No electricity, no running water, no transportation because there is no fuel. Unhealthy conditions everywhere.”

Peter Gumpel, S.J., who died last week, devoted his life to the work of the Vatican's Congregation for the Causes of Saints. He also had a surprising secret about his own background.

Throughout 23 years of Russian confinement—he was finally released on Oct. 12, 1963—Walter turned to God in prayer in every crisis.

“Our position, after 100 days and after having recovered the bodies, is clear: We demand the municipal, state and federal authorities to be aware of their obligations.”

I want to savor the beauty that is all around me, to be a witness to whatever this day will offer me, and all the people in it. But it’s hard!