‘The greatest story ever told’ kicks off in today’s gospel with a rather controversial opening scene. You might not have picked up on any controversy there, as you’ve heard that episode so many times. Or perhaps you missed it because it’s a tiny part of the much greater story, a part of seemingly minor importance. So, where’s the controversy in…

Locked in jail and locked out of action. A man whose whole life was devoted to one particular cause. His mission was to announce the arrival of the Messiah, the almighty messenger from God, who was to come to purify the Chosen People of Israel and to defeat their enemies. John the Baptist had been carrying out that mission with…

I must make a confession: I don’t like Advent. Or – to be more precise – its liturgical aspect. Let me explain why briefly. Across the country, Christmas lights are being switched on in villages, towns and cities. Shops, with very few exceptions, are kitted out in their Christmas décor and have a tempting assortment of goodies and promotions on…