In 1983, Sri Lanka descended into a bitter and prolonged ethnic conflict. Harry Miller, S.J., then almost 60, was thrust into a new role as witness, advocate, intermediary and protector not only for his students but for anyone in Batticaloa who sought his help.

In preparation for the gathering in Abu Dhabi, I find myself asking why my conversations with the future Pope Francis so powerfully affected both of us.

There are three things you need to orient yourself in times of crisis and change, a monk told me: divine inspiration, the facts of your life and a wise witness to certify that you’re living in reality.

The longer I live, the more I grow in awe of God’s creative activity and in reverence for God’s creation.

At least some of our distractions have their source in God—and have something to teach us.

Like the men of Galilee present at the ascension of Jesus, we search the skies for unclouded meaning.