Unsung Saints
Diane M. Houdek
July 6, 2026
We can all think of people who have made a significant difference in the major decisions and directions of our lives.
Posts from:
Diane M. Houdek
Diane M. Houdek is the former director of content at Franciscan Media. She is the author of Lent with St. Francis, Advent with St. Francis, and Simple Gifts: Daily Reflections for Advent.
In Communion with the Father
Diane M. Houdek
April 9, 2025
Have you ever been surrounded by a whirlwind of activity, perhaps in the midst of family and friends, and felt a sudden whoosh of deep contentment?
Peaceful Mind, Joyful Heart
Diane M. Houdek
July 3, 2023
Christian peace is a joyful peace, for Jesus is joyful; God is joyful.
Overcoming Life’s Messiness
Diane M. Houdek
June 30, 2023
We often think of the world of the Scriptures as some perfect holy world—a utopia far different from the messiness of our daily lives.
The Hope of Lent
Diane M. Houdek
February 23, 2022
There’s something attractive about Lent beginning in the middle of an ordinary week, catching us in the midst of our daily occupations and asking us to take time out to find God there.
The Gifts of Advent Day 27: Open Wide the Doors
Diane M. Houdek
December 24, 2021
Pope Francis reminds us that Christmas calls us to be on the lookout for this manifestation of the divine. And if God wants to dwell with us, we better be willing to open our doors to him.
The Gifts of Advent Day 26: Our Hopes and Dreams
Diane M. Houdek
December 23, 2021
We might be struggling right now to see God’s plan unfolding, whether in our own lives or those of our children. But Christmas is the beginning of the ultimate happy ending.