Across the way, over at Patheos, their shiny new Catholic portal-keeper Elizabeth Scalia has launched an ambitious series on the “Future of Catholicism.” It’s part of a larger look at the future of religion, and Elizabeth has collected an impressive lineup of people to write short (500 words or less) head-scratchers about what a future church may look like. (Among the less-impressive authors: this numbskull from Queens.)

But I do want you to check out the wise words of my colleague at NET — I call her “the wind beneath my wings” — Shu-Fy Pongnon. Shu-Fy is my assistant news director, and she brings to this enterprise (and every enterprise) a sharp eye, a keen brain and an enormous heart. Read her thoughts on how the future Catholic Church will include “the beautiful mess of me.”

Then, check out some of the others. You’ll be engaged and, I think, uplifted.