john oconnor

hope in a pocket

Mar 27, 2017

We all carry burdens, anxieties, and concerns for those we love. We worry about ourselves and our future. Have you ever thought of carrying something that actually...

seeing reality

Mar 26, 2017

CAN I LIVE WITHOUT CHRIST IN MY GAZE? It seems obvious to answer this question with a ‘yes’. We all know many people who would say they do not believe in Christ and...

God with us

Mar 25, 2017

t's the feast of the Annunciation today - the day on which Jesus' human life began and therefore nine months until Christmas. Take a moment to appreciate...

lectio divina

Mar 24, 2017

Many methods have been offered for the tradition of "divine reading" of the scriptures. Too often this beautiful form of prayer is complicated by well-intentioned...

how to be happy

Mar 21, 2017

The great challenge at the heart of human life is the discernment of what will lead us to greater intimacy with God, and what will lead us away from this life-giving...

decide or discern?

Mar 20, 2017

Every day, every one of us makes decisions. Some of these are small and easy choices. Many are more difficult and complex. I offer this brief video clip as an...

the week’s end

Mar 18, 2017

For many people Friday brings the end of the work and study week. The weekend brings a great diversity of activities which is why the most interesting conversation...

faith’s friendships

Mar 16, 2017

It is a privilege for me to spend a couple of days twice a year with members of the Anglican Roman Catholic Commission of Aotearoa New Zealand (ARCCANZ). This forum is...

let’s pray

Mar 15, 2017

I am often surprised and saddened to hear people speaking about their own experience of prayer with a degree of uncertainty and lack of confidence. But when I hear them...

four years on…

Mar 14, 2017

It was on this morning four years ago that in New Zealand we woke to the news that Pope Francis had been elected. I recall being in the Cheviot Four Square store a few...