A humongous box of firecrackers? A kitten in a basket? Those gifts may be unusual, but they are nothing like the very unusual Christmas gift I received from my parents. My parents’ very unusual Christmas gift was something that can’t be packaged and tied up with a string. They gave it not only to me but to my siblings as well. It was not something that we touched, but something we experienced. The very unusual gift that my parents gave was Continue reading
Just spent the weekend with my mother in my hometown. She has taught me so much about love and service and my faith. For example, when I struggled down some stormy roads earlier in my life, her unconditional love and maternal tenderness was a beacon for me in my dark time. From big things, like her Continue reading
It’s finally here! The Christmas season. Time to remember what the season is all about. Time to pause and pray before a manger. May I suggest Prayer at the Manger written by my friend Cinda DeVet? It will only take a minute, and the Child is waiting. Waiting for you. Continue reading
Where is the newborn king? This was the question that drove the Magi on their long journey. They were wise, so they went to the most logical place to find the newborn king of the Jews, the holy city of Jerusalem- but unfortunately it was the wrong place! Continue reading
If you haven’t made a New Year’s resolution yet, or even if you have, the Holy Family has something to offer you. This year, New Year’s Eve happened to fall on the Feast of the Holy Family, which provided an excellent opportunity for me to reflect on this humble family, and to consider what they can teach us regarding the resolutions we usually make.
One of my favorite things about going to Mass during the Christmas season is seeing the nativity set. My most favorite piece, the one that always mesmerizes me, is the infant Jesus. Continue reading
Today we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany, when the Magi arrive to pay homage to baby Jesus. Matthew’s gospel gives the fascinating account of this event. However, it has been retold so many times, and in so many ways—in plays, poetry, songs—that most people have a distorted view of the events. Here are three “misconceptions.” Continue reading
Did you know that January 1st is the World Day of Peace? This Catholic feast day, which is 50 years old, helps us to focus on building universal peace through active and creative nonviolence. Pope Francis says we all can be artisans of peace. Here are some of his words for this special day. Continue reading
Christmas time means family time. And family time can sometimes mean friction time. We come together with intentions of good will, but as soon as someone says something we disagree with, or does something that offends us, we can be quick to pull out our swords and spears. Continue reading
