Franciscan Spirit

symphony at play | Photo by Manuel Nägeli on Unsplash

A Symphony of Priestly Prayer

Theologians make an important distinction between what they call “devotional” and “liturgical” prayer.

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A woman holds a candle as Pope Francis attends a meeting at the Munyonyo shrine in Kampala, Uganda Nov. 27. The pope met with catechists and teachers at Munyonyo, the martyrdom spot of the Uganda Martyrs. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

Let There Be Light: A Christmas Prayer

In turning on the light of the Christmas tree, we wish for the light of Christ to be in us.
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Saint Nicholas of Myra painting

Santa Claus: A Figure of Generosity

Pope Francis reminds us that God’s attitude toward us is far more one of mercy than of judgment.
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Christmas stockings and tree

The True Spirit of Christmas

The celebration of Christmas can be meaningless and maddening, especially if you don’t have access to its deep layers of history and symbolism. You may feel frantic looking for gifts, rather than understanding that gift-giving is a way of being ...
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Solanus Casey’s Beatification Explained

All around the United States, people will celebrate the life of this holy Capuchin friar in November.
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landfill image by Collab Media on Unsplash

Our Disposable Culture

This month is a time for Americans to celebrate both food and family in our land of plenty. But what happens when plenty becomes too much, when surplus turns into waste?
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Angel statue

Surrounded by Saints

Outside in my garden is a statue of Saint Francis, patron saint of animals and the environment.
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Includes Saint of the Day, Minute Meditations, and Pause + Pray.