David Brooks on desire and longing in the spiritual life
Desire and longing are some of the main ways that God draws us closer. “Our hearts are restless until they rest in you, O Lord,” as St. Augustine wrote. How else would God draw us closer than by awakening in us the very desire for the divine?

Sign up for America Today
Your daily guide to the most important stories from the church and the world— delivered to your inbox every day. See more newsletters.
Magazine
Past issues
Read Deeply. Reflect Faithfully.
Enjoy unlimited access to every article in America across print and digital
Podcasts
See all
Donation
America is more than a magazine. It’s a Catholic community built on faith, thought and dialogue. Help us carry it forward.

Most Popular
Videos
See all
Sign up for America Today
Your daily guide to the most important stories from the Church and around the world – delivered to your inbox each morning. See more newsletters
Cover Story
Archbishop Wester: The church must draw closer to L.G.B.T.Q. people
I recently attended a meeting in Racine, Wis., organized by New Ways Ministry, that deepened my pastoral concern, understanding and right judgment about the lives of L.G.B.T.Q. Catholics.
Podcasts
See all
Events and Webinars
See all
VIDEO | Pope Leo’s first month: Your questions answered
On June 9, America Media’s team of experts hosted an exclusive, subscriber-only event to answer your specific questions about Pope Leo XIV, the conclave and this historic time in our church.
CURRENT ISSUE • Vol. 233 / No. 11
June 2026

Featured Articles
The Gospel case for privacy
A Reflection for Wednesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time, by Molly Cahill
Pope Leo ends visit to Spain with a call to repent
Pope Leo XIV concluded his weeklong visit to Spain with a mighty denunciation of those who traffic or exploit migrants, shouting, “Stop! Repent!”









