The Winter 2026 issue of Occasional Papers, the journal of LCWR, invites readers into a powerful exploration of the theme, Let Your Heart Take Courage (Ps. 27:14). At a time when our world -- and our religious communities -- are marked by uncertainty , the call to courage feels both urgent and deeply hopeful.
This issue asks: What does it mean to lead with an open heart when fear urges us to close off? How might curiosity become a pathway to wisdom, and vulnerability a source of strength? What if risk and failure were seen not as threats, but as sacred opportunities for growth?
Through voices that challenge and inspire, this issues offers a vision of leadership grounded in transparency, integrity, and the quiet resilience that comes from listening to the Spirit within. This issue is not just about courage as an idea -- but rather courage as a lived practice that sustains us, shapes us, and prepares us to meet this moment with faith and hope.
Writers in this issue explore courage from an array of perspectives. Also included in this issue are interviews with Episcopalian Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, author of How We Learn to Be Brave, and Rev. Tomáš Halik, author of The Afternoon of Christianity: The Courage to Change.
An issue of Occasional Papers costs $5.00, plus postage. Discounts are available for orders of 10 or more. Orders must be received by December 3. Copies will be mailed in January.
Subscriptions are also available and make great gifts for only $15/year.
Questions about orders or subscriptions may be directed to Faye Homed at fhomed@lcwr.org or call 301-588-4955.
