The Welcome Table

Rising political conflict has strained families and friendships, with many Americans reporting estrangement and lasting emotional harm. Drawing on research and counseling experience, the author argues that forgiveness is often misunderstood as requiring reconciliation, when in fact it can be an internal process of releasing ill will to promote healing. By distinguishing forgiveness from reconciliation, the piece offers a more realistic and compassionate framework for navigating conflict,...

Following the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent, tens of thousands of protesters and a revitalized network of faith leaders have mobilized across Minneapolis to resist mass deportation efforts. Drawing on the organizing infrastructure built during the 2020 George Floyd protests, these "movement chaplains" and multifaith groups are providing spiritual support and moral witness to a community demanding the immediate removal of federal agents from their city. Click here to read the...

The  Welcoming Prayer  is a contemplative practice that helps us surrender to God, Reality, and Love in the midst of ordinary, often messy moments. The prayer has been embraced by many as a way of finding peace not by avoiding our feelings but by gently welcoming them.  How to Practice the Welcoming Prayer Notice what you’re feeling. Pause and gently become aware of what’s present—fear, anger, sadness, grief, joy, numbness, or something else. Notice it not just in your thoughts, but in your...