“In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death and to guide our feet into the way of peace.” (Excerpt from the Canticle of Zechariah, Lk 1:78-79)
Author Archives: Guest
Make a List for Christmas Presence
Christmas is almost here! You made your lists, checked them twice. You began your mission to find the best Christmas present for everyone on your list on time Black Friday. You were off with the pack. Thankfully you did your homework, checked sale ads before leaving home, scanned the web, and asked advice from the gift receivers. You fought the crowds to get that perfect item. You rejoiced each time you crossed a person off your list.
A Soft, Loving Place: Preparing a Manger for Baby Jesus
“And [Mary] gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn” (Lk 2:7)
Honoring Saint Nicholas: New Meaning for Giving
Traditions surrounding Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra and “the real Santa Claus,” whose feast day is December 6, recall his legendary love for God, children, and the poor. Here are some ways to honor the memory of this ancient gift-giver, offsetting the commercialization of Christmas and re-centering the season’s true spirit on Jesus.
Advent Expectation, Hope and Healing
by Kathleen Beckman
In the season of Advent each of us may ask ourselves: what do I expect?
Stop Using “Trust Women” as an Abortion Trump Card
By Rachel Crawford
Imagine you were talking to someone about child abuse, and they said, “You know, I understand that you’re personally against it, but I think we should trust parents to make the right decisions for their families.” Would you feel like their comment about trust was a meaningful contribution to the discussion or a bizarre red herring?
Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal: Love Unending, Favors without Limit
Interior of the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, Rue du Bac, Paris (Wikicommons)
November 27th each year commemorates the manifestation of Our Lady’s Miraculous Medal. This sacramental, known and beloved worldwide, arose from the humblest of origins, in keeping with those of the Virgin whose image it bears.
This Thanksgiving, I’ll Bring the Thanks
“In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Who is bringing a thankful heart to their Thanksgiving table? This holiday season consider bringing an attitude of gratitude to your feast, along with the pumpkin pie, the sweet potatoes and turkey. I promise you every one at the table will beg for a second helping.
Holy Eucharist: True Food for Thanksgiving
Food always has been one of our basic necessities, but during these days approaching Thanksgiving, food takes on an even greater, more meaningful significance than usual. Shopping for and readying all the elements of the traditional holiday menu become matters of prime importance as we prepare to celebrate with family and friends. Read the rest…
