Emilio Estevez cites family, spirituality, and pro-life values as motivators. Quick, what’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the name Emilio Estevez? Brat Pack? The Breakfast Club, Young Guns, or The Mighty Ducks? How about Martin Sheen, acting family, or Hollywood royalty? Think unconventional. Consider that from his very beginning in […]
It’s a War out There
August 21, 2011: Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time This week’s Old Testament readings are filled with contrasting images of leaders, often depicted in battle, in action. Those whose faith is in God are exalted and do great things in His name; those whose faith is in themselves are humbled. Don’t Flatter Yourself. In the first […]
An Open Letter to my Parish: Why I am Discerning the Diaconate
This letter appears in the June 19 & 26, 2011 bulletin of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in West Des Moines, IA. My name is Joel Schmidt, and Fr. Hoefler asked me to write this column to introduce myself to you. Why? Because I am a parishioner here at St. Francis of Assisi and, […]