The revitalization of ceremonial life in Indigenous communities and the resurgence of the Latin Mass both reflect a desire to return to a more holistic way of knowing, characteristic of our ancestors.
Damian Costello
Damian Costello received his Ph.D. in theological studies from the University of Dayton and specializes in the intersection of Catholic theology, Indigenous spiritual traditions and colonial history.
Posted inArts & Culture, Music
Happy 80th birthday, Bob Dylan, teacher of the American soul
Bob Dylan, who turns 80 on May 24, expanded my musical and conceptual horizons from my college days onward.
Posted inArts & Culture, Ideas
Bob Marley’s journey to justice, joy and (ultimately) to Christian faith
When I was unmoored from the church, Marley’s music and messianic faith told me: No, God has not forgotten you.
Posted inFaith, Short Take
We don’t need to be afraid of the Christmas tree’s pagan roots
A tree that is forever green and points to heaven can stand for Christ.
Posted inFaith, Last Take
Indigenous peoples are filling in the gaps in our Catholic faith
One of the richest philosophical traditions in human history has been ignored and even systematically persecuted: the broad family of indigenous philosophies.
Posted inFaith, Features
Black Elk, the Lakota medicine man turned Catholic teacher, is promoted for sainthood
Sainthood for Black Elk could help the inclusion of indigenous Americans within the Catholic Church, but it also raises questions about the church’s role in erasing Lakota culture.