How to have the joy of the Holy Family this Christmas
Three months ago, we moved to a new city and into a new house. We had seen the house once before, but after a few weeks I realized something we…
Finding the light in my darkness: A Christmas reflection
Where I live, it is dark by 4 in the afternoon come December. As a child, like many children, I was afraid of the dark. So my siblings and I…
Grandma’s dresses: A Christmas reflection
During my conversion to the Catholic faith, I found myself in a bit of a conundrum figuring out what to wear to Mass for the first time. I ended up…
Reflecting on St. Joseph during Advent
“All is calm.” These words are found in one of the season’s most famous Christmas songs, “Silent Night.” But what went on in the background during the night of Jesus’…
Allowing ourselves to be weary pilgrims this Advent
Displayed in a small side chapel of Sant’Agostino in Rome is an arresting painting by the great Baroque artist Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. The work, “Madonna of the Pilgrims,” shocks…
Some ‘holly jolly’ shopping: The 2022 Radiant Christmas Gift Guide
’Tis the season … to support your favorite Catholic small businesses! Every year, I love exploring the many incredible Catholic-owned businesses and shops in order to craft this gift guide….
Recognizing the potential of our own hearts this Christmas
Growing up, one of my favorite Advent and Christmas traditions was reading from “The Advent Book” with my family. It was through this beautifully illustrated board book that I returned…
The 12 days of Christmas joy
Hurry. Decorate. Shop. Celebrate. Collapse. By the time Dec. 26 rolls around, you’re glad the radio has stopped playing Christmas carols. If you’ve ever encountered the holidays this way (or…
Stories to read around the fireplace this holiday season
There are many traditions in the Advent and Christmas season that my husband and I have together and that we love sharing with our two young daughters. Some are from…
When dependence is beautiful
As the surrounding trees lost their golden leaves, my sister-in-law swayed near the group of our family, gently rocking my infant nephew in her carrier. The rest of us warmed…