Paul Winkler

1 week ago | denvercatholic.org | Paul Winkler

During my childhood, communism, which Pope Leo XIII had condemned in the previous century, loomed as a global threat through its aggressive expansion. This threat was most evident in the actions of the Soviet Union. I grew up listening to the tense rhetoric exchanged between President Reagan and Soviet leaders — first Leonid Brezhnev, and later Mikhail Gorbachev, who, fortunately, recognized the need to end the decades-long Cold War and implement reforms essential for his country’s survival.

1 month ago | denvercatholic.org | Paul Winkler

During his pontificate, Pope Francis articulated an economic vision that called for capitalism’s radical transformation to ensure that it focused on serving people rather than “the bottom line.” His teachings offered an uncomfortable challenge, a warning and an invitation to all business leaders — but for Catholic business leaders specifically — to lead with integrity and focus on the human person, uphold ethical responsibility and help shape a world where business serves and lifts up...

2 months ago | denvercatholic.org | Paul Winkler

If I were to write a basic Theology of Work, it would be structured simply and directly as we no longer have the same luxury of time for reading or reflection that we might have fifty years ago. The Theology of Work would begin with the mission of the Catholic business leader, rooted in Christ’s two greatest commandments: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself” (Luke 10:27).

Mar 21, 2025 | denvercatholic.org | Paul Winkler

Every decision we’ve ever made, are making now, or will make in the future is driven by our desire to be happy. Understanding this is crucial, as our choices — past, present and future — shape the trajectory of our lives and the businesses we lead. Happiness is so essential in life that Thomas Jefferson enshrined “the pursuit of happiness” in the Declaration of Independence.

Feb 21, 2025 | denvercatholic.org | Paul Winkler

In the competitive business world, success is often measured by profit, efficiency and influence. For the Catholic business leader, success must also be defined by how well we love and serve others. We are called to integrate faith and leadership, yet we often fall short of this “both-and” calling. As much as we aspire to lead with integrity and selflessness, our hearts frequently resist. Rather than prioritizing the good of those who interact with our businesses, we are tempted by self-interest.