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.
Category Archives: Living on Grace
The Coming of Jesus: Dawn Breaking from on High
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?
If Every Day Were Christmas!
“. . . Be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and playing to the Lord in your heart.” (Ephesians 5:18-19)
Francis of Assisi: The Christmas Crèche Comes to Life
St. Francis adoring the Christ Child (Fabrizio Santafede 1560-1623)
A well-researched biography of Saint Francis of Assisi must of necessity resound with the same two overriding themes: his deep, intense love for and devotion to his Savior, Jesus Christ; and his commitment to a radical living out of his Master’s example of poverty.
Why the Shepherds?
“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)
How to Survive Christmas Crunch Time
It’s crunch time! Christmas is only one week away and if you’re tempted to panic over a to-do list long enough to stretch across state lines, take some hints from the spiritual masters about how to handle Christmas “crunch time” without losing sight of the reason for the season.
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.
Dare to Prepare, Dare to Hope!
The following testimony is from Nicole Marshall, who addressed teens at the Young Women of Grace Dare to Prepare Advent Retreat which took place on December 8 at St. Joseph’s Church in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania.
The Spirit of Anti-Mary vs. the Age of Mary
We’ve all heard of the spirit of the anti-Christ, but is there an accompanying spirit of anti-Mary? The current condition of our world tell us a lot about the nature of this spirit – and also why there is so much reason to believe that an Age of Mary has already begun.
The Genius of Guadalupe
The feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe isn’t situated in the middle of Advent out of coincidence. Advent was made for women – and not just because we bake all the cookies and buy all the gifts. Like us, Mary was made for this season and the way she completed her mission in Guadalupe gives us a blueprint of how to confront the challenges of today.
