Sometimes symbols can express what words don’t do justice to. For me, one such symbol is a cut-out Christmas tree.
Paper tree evokes joy, hope amid life’s imperfections
What could we have offered God for such a Savior?
In farewell I offer you my Christmas Day 2016 homily for the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls.
Sunday Scripture readings: Dec. 16, 2018
Third Sunday of Advent
First reading: Zep 3:14-18
Second reading: Phil 4:4-7
Gospel: Lk 3:10-18
Don’t be afraid to ask for things from God in prayer, pope says
No one should be afraid to turn to God with prayer, especially in times of great doubt, suffering and need, Pope Francis said.
Marking feast day, pope asks Mary’s care of families seeking refuge
Pope Francis concluded his public celebration of the feast of the Immaculate Conception, Dec. 8, by making the traditional papal visit to a statue of Mary erected in Rome’s historic center to honor Catholic teaching that Mary was conceived without sin.
Feast of Immaculate Conception does not get weekend dispensation
Just last year, Catholics were required to attend separate Masses two days in a row for the Sunday obligation and Monday’s Christmas Mass. Now, they have a similar opportunity this year with the feast of the Immaculate Conception falling on a Saturday — Dec. 8.
Sunday Scripture readings: Dec. 9, 2018
Second Sunday of Advent
First reading: Bar 5:1-9
Second reading: Phil 1:4-6, 8-11
Gospel: Lk 3:1-6
Advent calendars: Old tradition and modern commercialism, same message
The Advent calendar with one tab or box to open each day for 24 or 25 days taps into something people really like: countdowns. It also highlights the anticipation that is at the heart of the four-week liturgical season of Advent.