Opinion

Columnist Greg Mamula writes about what he calls “table life.” He says gathering around the table is a sacred event; it creates space for the Spirit to move, in an environment where conversations happen naturally.

Raymond Chang reflects on the Atlanta shooting at several massage parlors where Asian women were targeted. And he writes about how Christians can help address the important issues of racism.

Editor Brian Kaylor responds to a “reparations” plan unveiled by the Society of Jesuits on Monday due to their legacy of owning and selling enslaved persons. While Kaylor applauds reparations efforts, he argues this plan falls short.

Barely a month into his presidency and to surprisingly little notice, Joe Biden ordered air strikes on a military site in Syria. No matter the justification or the number of casualties, the Syria bombing was contrary to Biden’s election commitment to end forever wars. The deadly cycle continues apace.

Jamie Aten and Kent Annan write that part of the challenge of mourning our nearly 600,000 dead from COVID-19 in the U.S. has been honoring them while upholding social distancing recommendations.

David W. Key Sr. writes that the Baptist tradition has long held religious liberty as a core conviction. At the same time, he is guided by that very faith which teaches that discrimination is wrong. There is no contradiction here.

Editor Brian Kaylor reflects on appearing in a new CBS News documentary about Christian Nationalism — and about a moment from filming that did not make the cut into the documentary.

What’s happening to my church is occurring in hundreds of churches across the United States. Large numbers of adults have left organized religion behind, and in their wake churches are faced with difficult questions.

Jeanie McGowan reflects on the decision to get a COVID-19 vaccination, and how the experience went. She also notes how she and her husband will continue to do their part to help their community stop the spread of the virus.

Editor Brian Kaylor reflects on efforts by lawmakers across the country to make it more difficult to vote. Such bills attempts to undo the work of faithful advocates during the civil rights movement, and some bills even target Black churches.