Sr. Carol J. Dempsey of the Dominican Sisters of Caldwell, New Jersey, is professor of biblical studies at the University of Portland, Oregon. She holds a B.A. from Caldwell College, New Jersey, an M.A. from St. Louis University, and a Ph.D. in biblical studies from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where she studied both Old and New Testament and biblical languages. She was a research fellow at Yale University from 1986-1989 and is the author of eight books, and edited three books in the Liturgical Press' Wisdom Bible Commentary Series.
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Carol J. Dempsey
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Fourth Sunday of Lent: Reconciliation model
Scripture for Life: The themes of celebration and reconciliation come together in the parable of the prodigal son heard in this Sunday's Gospel from Luke. Jesus addresses this parable to a group of complaining Pharisees and scribes who take issue with Jesus' interaction with sinners.
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First Sunday of Advent: A time of peril and promise
Scripture for Life: In ancient biblical times, people faced similar crises to those we face today. The Christian community is to lead by example, and their power as a group of people is to be transformative and not oppressive.
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Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Calling all prophets!
Scripture for Life: God's prophetic Spirit is given freely and stirred up freely, to the surprise of many people who thought they were specially chosen to receive such a wonderful gift.
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Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time: The miracle of sharing
Scripture for Life: A life lived in humility, with patience and the ability to bear with the other through love, also safeguards right relationships and ensures the practice of civility among the community's many members.