“The tyranny of the autonomous self. ”

What an interesting phrase to consider. It's a phrase from Bishop John Corriveau at the latest edition of Nothing More Beautiful. As many of you know, Nothing More Beautiful is a five year initiative of the Archdiocese of Edmonton featuring catechesis and witness talks that aim to renew our relationship with Christ. The head of the diocese of Nelson, British Columbia, Bishop John Corriveau, provides the catechesis. Originally from small-town Ontario, Bishop Corriveau has acted as the worldwide leader of the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. While serving the poor in Toronto, he was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI to shepherd Catholics in the beautiful Okanagan and Kootenay regions of British Columbia. His phrase "the tyranny of the autonomous self" is just one many lines during his talk that will leave you with something to ponder. The Capuchin goes on to discuss how this tyranny creates a society of domination and violence. He uses the example of abortion to explain this point, and further explores what freedom truly is by looking at the relational love between the three persons of the Trinity. Sound pretty heavy? It is, but Bishop Corriveau is a bold and animated speaker, he makes the topic accessible. The witness talk is given by Patrick Stewart, the director of Marian Centre, a Madonna House apostolate, in Edmonton. Patrick discusses how God continually reached out to him, even after he repeatedly turned away. He had everything he wanted -- a "much awarded naval career, a condo, sports car, the beautiful property, a long term relationship" but was left with the sinking feeling that it was "all meaningless." His witness is powerful, moving, honest, and engaging as he explains why we should all strive to be "third." He also offers some very important advice:

I encourage, no beg all parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends to pray for the lost adult children. I know how important this kind of intercessory prayer is from my own experience.

Tune in, or stream us live online, Saturday, May 30th at 9:30pm ET, Sunday, May 31st at 1:30pm ET, or Wednesday, June 3rd at 8pm ET, for Nothing More Beautiful: Towards a Culture of Life, only on Salt + Light Television!