The feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord, traditionally celebrated on January 6th, marks the closing out of the Twelve Days of Christmas. In centuries past, some European countries formulated an annual ritual performed on this day, to bless parishioners’ homes at the start of the New Year. While it is not widely practiced, the Blessing of Homes on Epiphany is still celebrated in many Christian traditions.
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TV writes: "I had heard that Pope Benedict said that Yoga is not a sin in itself but the worshiping of our bodies is sinful. Is there more you can share about our Catholic Church's teachings of yoga."
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January 3
"God is love." - John 4:16
Today's Reflection:
What is love? What are its characteristics? What is the true purpose of love?
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On this feast of the Holy Name of Jesus, let us be reminded that the “dawn from on high” that broke upon us nine days ago is still with us in this glorious Christmas season. Has He dawned in your heart yet?
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Move over Headspace! There’s a new meditation app in town – and this one is 100% Catholic.
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As of today, our bishops will be spending the next seven days in a retreat at Mundelein Seminary in Chicago and the faithful are being asked to join them by devoting the next week to intercessory prayer and sacrifices on their behalf.
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January 2
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16
Today's Reflection:
Why would God do such a thing even as man often stubbornly opposes His divine will? As we enter this New Year, how can you more freely accept God's amazing gift to us, Jesus Christ?
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RS asks:
"I was wondering if you had any opinions on Pete Egoscue and his stretching programs? I'm concerned he maybe new age because D.P. Chopra gave a recommendation for it..."
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In a major new document written for Catholics of the Diocese of Phoenix, Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted urges fathers and mothers to commit themselves and their families to a deeper relationship with Christ.
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Mary Virgin and Mother
Oh, Virgin Joy of all the world art thou
In whose white, fragrant steps the countless throng
On souls elect doth follow God with song:
Creation's Queen, whose bright and holy brow
The multitude of Saints, like stars, endow
With changeful splendors, flashing far and strong:
The Main unshadow'd by the primal wrong:
God's Lily, chosen in His shrine to bow
All these thy glories are, and still a grace
More high, more dread, and yet more sweet and fair,
Doth bind thy royal brows, O Mary blest.
God called thee Mother; yea, His sacred face
The tender likeness of thine own doth wear.
And thou art ours - we trust Him for the rest.
-St. Elizabeth Seton
For Reflection:
Today is the Solemnity of Mother of God. What references do we see to this title of Mary in the Saint's poem? Which touches you most deeply and why? Consider the title the Saint gives to Our Lady - Creation's Queen. Ponder the way in which all of creation's surrender to God is found most perfectly in Mary's "fiat" to God. Journal your thoughts. How can you unite your "yes" to God in hers?
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