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Think of a time you tried to untie a “knot” in your life. Did you get frustrated? Know that Mary our mother is patient and gentle with the sorrows and challenges that you bring to her.
On this third Sunday of Advent, we hear an important message when John the Baptist tell the crowds to share what they have with those who have none.
The days leading up to Christmas can be exhausting. We need to remember to take care of ourselves so that we can enjoy the Advent season.
Under the title of the Immaculate Conception, the Blessed Virgin is the patron of the United States. Thus this is a major feast—in fact a Holy Day of Obligation—for the Church in the United States of America.
What would bring us joy today? An end to terrorists’ threats? Conversion in the corporate world from greed and personal gain? A new spirit of generosity and service in people’s everyday lives?
Our faith teaches us that in view of the role she would play in the salvation of humankind, Mary was exempted from the infection of sinfulness. That exception is what we celebrate today.
One of Ambrose’s historical claims to fame is that he was instrumental in the conversion of Saint Augustine, and also baptized him. Known for his lively preaching and writing, Saint Ambrose must have been a force to be reckoned with. Maybe those qualities were what attracted Saint Augustine. But Saint Ambrose stands on his own merits–independent of his protégé.
One of my favorite Advent hymns gives this reflection its title. There’s something wonderful about including the cosmos in our Christmas celebrations.
Beauty rescues us from a drab utilitarian existence. Simplicity doesn’t need to be stark and completely minimalist.
Losing someone we love is difficult. Even though we believe in heaven and life after death, their absence from everyday life is painful.
